The narrative unfolds in a future where humanity has developed advanced medical technologies, allowing for the survival and rehabilitation of individuals who have suffered severe injuries, referred to as "accidentals." These individuals, while physically altered, possess unique abilities and resilience due to biocompensation, a process that enables their bodies to adapt and survive despite significant physical limitations. The story centers around a group of accidentals living on an asteroid known as Handicap Haven, where they are confined due to their conditions. The protagonist, Doctor Cameron, is tasked with overseeing their care but struggles with the ethical implications of their confinement and the Medicouncil's refusal to allow them to participate in space exploration. The accidentals, particularly a character named Docchi, express a desire to travel to Alpha and Proxima Centauri, believing they could survive the journey better than normal humans due to their unique adaptations. As tensions rise, the accidentals devise a plan to escape their confinement and prove their worth to society. They believe that their unique abilities could make them ideal candidates for interstellar travel. However, their attempts to petition the Medicouncil for a ship are met with rejection, leading them to take matters into their own hands. The narrative explores themes of identity, societal acceptance, and the struggle for autonomy. The accidentals grapple with their self-worth and the perception of normalcy in a society that values physical perfection. The story culminates in a confrontation with the Medicouncil, where the accidentals must assert their right to exist and contribute to humanity's future. Throughout the work, the characters navigate their relationships with one another, their past traumas, and the societal structures that seek to define them. The story ultimately raises questions about what it means to be human and the value of diversity in the face of adversity.
By F.L. Wallace · First published 1977 · Genre: Science Fiction, Adventure, Speculative Fiction · 6 chapters