A young man named Burl lives in a harsh, fungus-covered world where humanity has regressed into a primitive state, struggling for survival against giant insects and deadly flora. Burl's tribe, descendants of the crew of a long-lost spaceship, has forgotten their past and lives in constant fear of the monstrous creatures that inhabit their environment. Burl, however, begins to show signs of intelligence and resourcefulness, driven by a desire to protect his tribe and win the affection of a girl named Saya. Burl's journey begins when he ventures out to find food, encountering various dangers, including poisonous spores and predatory insects. He learns to use a weapon fashioned from a beetle's horn, which allows him to spear fish and hunt insects, marking the first steps toward reclaiming humanity's lost ingenuity. His experiences lead him to kill a tarantula, a significant achievement that boosts his confidence and status among his peers. As Burl leads his tribe through the treacherous landscape, they face the threat of deadly red puffballs that release toxic spores. The tribe's survival hinges on their ability to navigate this perilous environment, and Burl's leadership becomes crucial. He teaches them to hunt and gather food, fostering a sense of community and purpose. However, as they settle into a new valley rich in resources, complacency sets in. The tribe becomes lethargic, forgetting the dangers that lurk around them. Burl, frustrated by their regression, embarks on a journey to find a safer place, ultimately leading them through a series of challenges that test their newfound courage. The arrival of a giant female tarantula threatens their existence, prompting Burl to rally his tribe once more. He realizes that they must confront their fears and adapt to survive in this unforgiving world. Through a combination of bravery, ingenuity, and leadership, Burl guides his tribe toward a future where they can reclaim their humanity and thrive against the odds. In the end, Burl's journey is not just about survival but about the evolution of his tribe from fearful scavengers to a community capable of facing the challenges of their environment. His experiences serve as a catalyst for change, igniting a spark of hope and resilience in a world that has long been forgotten.
By Murray Leinster · First published 1955 · Genre: Science Fiction, Adventure, Fantasy · 11 chapters