Yorkan Varr is wrongfully exiled to Earth, a prison planet, for a murder he did not commit. As he arrives, he learns that he has been given a new identity, John Arthur Stern, and is thrust into a society of exiles who have formed a group to survive and potentially escape. The leader of this group, Matt Skardoth, is revealed to be the actual murderer who framed Varr. Stern grapples with his situation, realizing that Skardoth has manipulated the exiles for his own gain, aiming to take control of Earth and its resources. As Stern integrates into the group, he discovers that many members are aware of Skardoth's true nature but feel powerless to act against him. Stern's determination to prove his innocence and expose Skardoth grows, leading him to form a plan. He and Elizabeth Kirk, a fellow exile, share suspicions about Skardoth's intentions and the possibility of his escape route. Their investigation reveals that Skardoth has been on Earth for centuries, using the exiles as pawns in his scheme. When Skardoth captures Elizabeth, Stern realizes he must act quickly. He confronts Skardoth in a dramatic showdown, ultimately overpowering him. After freeing Elizabeth, they learn that the Council of Judges has been aware of the injustices on Earth and had sent them to rectify the situation. In the end, Stern and Elizabeth are rescued by a patrol ship, and Skardoth is apprehended, allowing for the possibility of justice and redemption for the exiles. The narrative explores themes of injustice, identity, and the struggle for power within a corrupt system.
By Robert Silverberg · First published 1971 · Genre: Science Fiction, Adventure, Dystopian