In a desert temple dedicated to Carthule, Marik, the First Priest, grapples with the implications of a recent revelation: humanity is not alone in the universe. The arrival of Earthmen has disrupted the long-held beliefs of his people. During a meditation, Marik spots an Earthman lost in the desert and sends an acolyte, Kenra Sarg, to bring him to safety. The Earthman, upon arrival, expresses his intent to leave soon, having only sought refuge after losing his way. Marik explains the sanctity of the Guest Rite, which protects those seeking sanctuary. However, Polla San, a neighboring priest, arrives with troubling news: an Earthman from his temple has stolen a sacred eye from the statue of Carthule. Polla San insists they must punish the thief, but Marik argues that the Guest Rite forbids harm to any guest, regardless of their actions. The tension between the two priests highlights differing interpretations of their faith. The Earthman, unaware of the gravity of his situation, seeks a compass to navigate back to his home, Corolla. Marik feigns ignorance about compasses, emphasizing that Carthule will guide him. The Earthman, frustrated, leaves the temple but soon gets lost again in the desert. Marik, concerned for his safety, ventures out to retrieve him, finding him weak and disoriented. Upon returning the Earthman to the temple, Marik reaffirms the commitment to the Guest Rite, ensuring the Earthman is cared for. Polla San remains skeptical, believing the Earthman will eventually steal from them again. Marik, however, is confident that the Earthman will not find his way back to Corolla and will become a permanent guest, allowing them to wait for the eventual recovery of the stolen eye. The narrative explores themes of faith, morality, and the complexities of hospitality, as the priests navigate their duties to Carthule and the implications of their beliefs in the face of transgression. The Earthman, representing a foreign and disruptive force, becomes a focal point for the priests' philosophical and ethical dilemmas, ultimately leading to a contemplation of the nature of good and evil within their religious framework.
By Robert Silverberg · First published 1976 · Genre: Science Fiction, Fantasy, Philosophical Fiction