In a desolate world dominated by machines, two humans, Torcred and Ladna, find themselves in a precarious situation. Torcred, a member of the terrapin race, is racing against time to rejoin his troop after engine trouble delays him. As he navigates the treacherous dunes, he encounters an enemy aircraft that attacks him. In a desperate fight, he manages to shoot it down, only to discover a young girl from the bird-people, Ladna, among the wreckage. Despite the instinct to kill her, Torcred hesitates and ultimately decides to spare her life, taking her as a prisoner instead. Their initial interactions are fraught with tension, as Ladna expresses disdain for Torcred's people, while he grapples with the implications of his actions. As they travel together, they witness the migration of a massive trailer herd, which serves as a backdrop for their growing bond and the complexities of their respective cultures. The narrative explores themes of identity, loyalty, and the struggle for survival in a world where machines dictate the rules of existence. Torcred's internal conflict intensifies as he contemplates his place in a society that views the bird-people as enemies. The two characters navigate their differences, ultimately forming a partnership that transcends their cultural divides. As they face various dangers, including attacks from machines and the harsh desert environment, their relationship evolves. Torcred's decision to help Ladna escape from her predicament leads to a deeper understanding of each other's worlds. They encounter a mysterious figure who seems to guide them, hinting at a larger force at play in their lives. The climax of the story occurs when they learn of a plan to use an ancient weapon against the buzzards, the primary antagonists in their world. Torcred and Ladna are thrust into a mission to deliver a bomb to the buzzard base, which leads to a dramatic confrontation. The narrative culminates in a powerful explosion that destroys the buzzard stronghold, symbolizing a turning point in the ongoing conflict between the races. In the aftermath, Torcred and Ladna return to the terrapin camp, where they must confront the consequences of their actions. The story concludes with a sense of hope for a new beginning, as Torcred embraces his identity as a man, no longer bound by the rigid traditions of his people. The journey they undertake together signifies a shift towards understanding and cooperation among the disparate races, suggesting that change is possible in a world long dominated by fear and division.
By Robert Abernathy · First published 1975 · Genre: Science Fiction, Adventure, Fantasy · 10 chapters