In a near-future world ravaged by a mysterious and deadly disease known as the Nevada Virus, a military quarantine is established to contain its spread. General Theodore Lindstrom leads the quarantine efforts, grappling with the implications of the virus, which has a peculiar effect: those who survive it emerge rejuvenated, appearing decades younger. The narrative unfolds as Lindstrom interacts with various characters, including Wayne Adams III, a powerful insurance executive, who is more concerned about the financial ramifications of the virus than the human cost. As the quarantine tightens, Lindstrom faces challenges from within and outside the military structure. Adams, who has his own agenda, seeks to understand the virus's effects on survivors, believing that the rejuvenation process could be monetized. Tensions rise as Lindstrom realizes that Adams's interests may conflict with the broader goal of finding a cure and controlling the virus's spread. The plot thickens when Henry Fleming, a statistician working for Adams, goes missing after a series of events that lead to Adams's death. Lindstrom suspects that Fleming may have ulterior motives and could pose a threat to the quarantine efforts. As the story progresses, Lindstrom's moral dilemmas intensify, particularly regarding the potential for the rejuvenation serum to be misused or controlled by those with selfish interests. Fleming's eventual capture reveals the desperation of individuals caught in the chaos of the virus. He embodies the conflict between personal ambition and the collective good, as he believes that the chance to regain youth is worth any risk, even death. Lindstrom grapples with the consequences of the virus, the ethical implications of rejuvenation, and the potential for societal upheaval if the serum is released without careful consideration. The narrative culminates in a confrontation between Lindstrom and the forces that seek to exploit the virus for profit. Lindstrom must navigate the treacherous waters of power, morality, and survival, ultimately questioning what it means to be human in a world where age and death can be manipulated. The story serves as a commentary on the nature of ambition, the value of life, and the responsibilities that come with scientific discovery.
By F.L. Wallace · First published 1976 · Genre: Science Fiction, Dystopian, Thriller