In a future where Mars and other outworld colonies are struggling for independence from Earth, Alan Tremaine finds himself thrust into a political maelstrom following the assassination of his father, Richard Tremaine, a leader of the Outworld Federation. The story begins with a ceremony celebrating the Declaration of Sovereignty, which is abruptly interrupted by violent uprisings across the solar system. Alan, who has been studying on Earth, is unprepared for the chaos that ensues as factions within the Federation reject the peaceful union with Earth and instead call for total independence through armed revolt. As the situation escalates, Alan is caught between the military governor of Mars, General Olmstead, and the revolutionary forces led by a militant faction of the Federation. He struggles to assert his father's vision of a peaceful resolution while grappling with the reality of war. The narrative follows Alan as he navigates the treachery of those around him, including Bennett Keifer, a colonel who manipulates events to seize power for himself. Alan learns that his father had opposed violence and sought a diplomatic solution, but Keifer's ambitions lead to a brutal conflict. The tension mounts as Alan discovers that the Earth government is prepared to cut off Mars' water supply, a move that would devastate the Martian colonies and force them into submission. In a desperate bid to prevent catastrophe, Alan must confront Keifer and his plans, which include launching a cobalt bomb at Earth. The climax unfolds as Alan races against time to stop the bomb from being launched. He faces betrayal, loss, and the weight of his father's legacy as he fights to save both Earth and the Outworlds from destruction. The story culminates in a tense showdown on the moon, where Alan must dismantle the bomb and confront Keifer, who has taken Laura Olmstead, the daughter of General Olmstead, hostage. Ultimately, Alan's determination and courage lead to a resolution that redefines the relationship between Earth and the Outworlds, emphasizing the need for unity and cooperation rather than conflict. The narrative explores themes of loyalty, sacrifice, and the complexities of leadership in a time of crisis, leaving readers to ponder the cost of freedom and the true meaning of independence.
By Stephen Marlowe · First published 1965 · Genre: Science Fiction, Space Opera, Adventure · 9 chapters