The narrative follows Anketam, a dedicated farmer on the planet Xedii, who takes pride in his work and the land he oversees for The Chief. As he navigates the challenges of farming, he is unaware of the brewing conflict that will soon engulf his world. Anketam's life is characterized by a friendly rivalry with another supervisor, Jacovik, and a strong bond with his wife, Memi. Their lives are disrupted when Anketam's brother, Russat, arrives with news of an impending war, which initially seems distant and irrelevant to Anketam's daily routine. As the war escalates, Anketam remains focused on his agricultural duties, believing that the conflict will not affect their peaceful existence. However, the situation deteriorates, and the invaders establish a presence on Xedii, leading to a blockade that disrupts trade and threatens the farmers' livelihoods. The Chief, recognizing the gravity of the situation, appoints Anketam to oversee the barony in his absence as he prepares to lead the military effort against the invaders. Anketam faces the daunting task of managing the barony while ensuring food production continues amidst the chaos. He collaborates with Jacovik and recruits Basom, a young and initially lazy worker, to help supervise the fields. As the war drags on, Anketam's faith in their ability to withstand the invaders remains strong, despite the growing scarcity of resources and the increasing pressure from the enemy. The narrative takes a dark turn when the invaders launch a full-scale assault, leading to the destruction of Anketam's village and the loss of many lives, including that of The Chief. Anketam and the remaining villagers are forced to flee to the Big Swamp for safety. In the aftermath, Anketam grapples with the devastation of his home and the uncertainty of the future. Eventually, the invaders declare victory, and Colonel Fayder arrives to inform Lady Samas, The Chief's widow, that the war is over. The colonel's proclamation of a new order for Xedii, promising freedom and equality, leaves Anketam feeling lost and disillusioned. The life he built, centered around farming and community, is shattered, and he faces an uncertain future in a world that has fundamentally changed. The story concludes with Anketam's realization that the war has not only destroyed his home but also the very fabric of his existence, leaving him to confront a new reality that he is ill-prepared to navigate.
By Randall Garrett · First published 1964 · Genre: Science Fiction, Space Opera, Political Fiction · 7 chapters