Jim Reese returns to Colony Eight after a month-long absence, hoping to reconcile with Lois, only to find the colony in chaos. Upon arrival, he encounters Kuhli, a drug-addicted native, who warns him of "big trouble." Reese discovers that his friends, including Lloyd Kramer, have been transformed into mind-controlled zombies under the influence of Dr. John Tersen, a scientist exiled from Earth for unethical experiments. Tersen has taken control of the colony using a generator that manipulates the minds of those within its range. Reese narrowly escapes capture and learns that he is immune to Tersen's control because he was absent when the generator was activated. He realizes that Tersen plans to conquer all ten colonies on Damballa and eventually Earth. While Reese is initially captured, he manages to break free when Kuhli inadvertently removes a bracelet that Tersen had placed on him to exert control. Reese encounters Lois, who appears to be under Tersen's influence but ultimately resists his commands, revealing her love for Reese. Tersen, however, uses her as a puppet to try to kill Reese. In a tense confrontation, Reese fights Tersen and destroys the generator, freeing the colonists from control. Tersen's demise is swift as the liberated colonists turn against him. In the aftermath, Reese and Lois reaffirm their bond, having overcome the manipulative power of Tersen. The story concludes with a sense of hope and renewal for their relationship and the colony, emphasizing the strength of love against tyranny.
By Robert Silverberg · First published 1972 · Genre: Science Fiction, Adventure, Thriller