The narrative follows Frank Hammond and Peter Storm, two research chemists, who experience an extraordinary adventure after encountering a mysterious object while fishing. This object, resembling a metallic creature, leads to their abduction by a spacecraft from Mars, piloted by a race of warrior women known as the Metiphrons. The two men are shrunk to a minuscule size and find themselves in a bizarre world where they must navigate the dangers posed by both the Metiphrons and their enemies, the Sediphrons, a crustacean-like species intent on domination. Hammond and Storm are captured and taken aboard the Metiphron ship, the _Vandar III_, where they meet Gena, the ship's commander. Gena explains the ongoing conflict between her people and the Sediphrons, who have evolved to be a threat to the Metiphrons. The men learn that the Sediphrons have infiltrated the Metiphron ranks, leading to a battle for control of the ship. As the story unfolds, Hammond and Storm engage in various skirmishes, showcasing their resourcefulness and bravery. They witness the complexities of Martian society, including the unique roles of men and women, and the advanced technology that allows for size manipulation. The narrative explores themes of courage, loyalty, and the struggle for survival in an alien environment. The climax occurs when Zuggoth, the Sediphron king, captures Hammond and Storm, intending to dissect them for scientific knowledge. However, Gena and her fellow warriors devise a plan to escape and take back control of the ship. In a tense series of events, they manage to sabotage Zuggoth's plans, leading to a final confrontation that results in the destruction of both the _Vandar III_ and Zuggoth's ship. Ultimately, Hammond and Storm, along with Gena and her companion Ardine, find themselves back in the ocean, having survived the ordeal. The story concludes with a sense of hope and new beginnings as Hammond expresses his desire to be with Gena, hinting at a future together on Earth. The narrative blends elements of science fiction, adventure, and romance, culminating in a thrilling exploration of interplanetary conflict and human connection.
By Otis Adelbert Kline · First published 1931 · Genre: Science Fiction, Adventure, Fantasy