In the 22nd century, the newspaper industry has evolved into a highly specialized field where reporters not only report events but also predict and manipulate them. Darius McLeod, a prominent reporter for the _Star-Times_, finds himself embroiled in a dangerous game of survival when a rival publication, the _World_, publishes a prediction that he will meet with a fatal accident. As McLeod navigates the treacherous waters of media rivalry, he learns that his life is at stake, and he must act quickly to protect himself. The story unfolds as McLeod interacts with various characters, including the anxious Mayor Spurgess, who is desperate to maintain his political position amidst allegations of corruption. McLeod's City Editor, Overman, pressures him to ensure the mayor's survival while simultaneously dealing with the threat posed by the _World_. The tension escalates as McLeod realizes that he is not only a target but also a pawn in a larger game orchestrated by powerful forces within the media. As the narrative progresses, McLeod grapples with moral dilemmas, including the potential sacrifice of his friend Harry Crippens, who is also a reporter. The stakes rise when McLeod learns of a conspiracy involving Crippens and Tracy Kent, a co-respondent, who are implicated in an anti-newspaper league. This revelation complicates McLeod's loyalties and forces him to confront the ethical implications of his profession. The plot thickens as McLeod is faced with a choice: to align himself with the corrupt practices of the media or to forge a new path that prioritizes truth and integrity. The climax of the story occurs when McLeod must confront Overman, leading to a violent confrontation that results in Overman's death. This act of defiance positions McLeod as a potential leader in a new movement within journalism, one that seeks to reclaim the integrity of the profession. In the aftermath, McLeod, Crippens, and Kent discuss the future of journalism and the need for reform. They recognize the importance of using their platform to promote genuine progress rather than sensationalism. The story concludes with McLeod contemplating the challenges ahead as he embarks on a mission to reshape the media landscape, emphasizing the need for accountability and ethical reporting in a world where the lines between truth and manipulation are increasingly blurred.
By Stephen Marlowe · First published 1975 · Genre: Mystery, Thriller, Crime · 7 chapters