The story takes place on a planet where the native inhabitants have been wiped out and replaced by humans who are struggling to survive in a harsh environment. The protagonist is a swordsman who has lost his memory and must navigate this unforgiving world while trying to regain his past. As he travels, he encounters various factions vying for power and resources, including a group of rebels fighting against the ruling elite. The swordsman becomes embroiled in their struggle and must use his skills to help them achieve their goals. Throughout the story, the protagonist's memories begin to return, revealing a complex past that is intertwined with the fate of the planet. He discovers that he was once a member of an elite group tasked with protecting the native inhabitants from human colonizers, but ultimately failed in his mission. The novel explores themes of identity, loyalty, and redemption as the swordsman grapples with his past mistakes and works to make amends.
By Poul Anderson · First published 1967 · Genre: Science Fiction, Fantasy, Adventure · 9 chapters