In a society that prides itself on perfect democracy and equality, the protagonist, Ellaby, is a product of a system that values conformity above all. Trained for a decade to assassinate the Dictator, he arrives in the Capitol, filled with a mix of anticipation and anxiety. His average intelligence and physicality make him the ideal candidate for the task, as he blends seamlessly into the societal mold. Upon arrival, he meets Dorcas Sinclair, who is tasked with overseeing him until he passes his employment tests. Their interactions reveal the tension between Ellaby's modal nature and the unpredictable personalities around him, particularly Dorcas and Sam Mulden, a radical from his past. Mulden's presence hints at a deeper conspiracy against the Dictator, suggesting that Ellaby's mission is part of a larger plan for revolution. As Ellaby undergoes rigorous testing, he grapples with his emotions and the pressure to conform. Despite his nervousness, he manages to pass the tests, albeit with a warning about his emotional instability. The personnel advisor's probing questions about his motives lead to a moment of panic, where Ellaby inadvertently reveals his true intention to kill the Dictator. This confession unexpectedly clears him for top-secret work, placing him in a position of power as the Dictator's confidential assistant. As Ellaby navigates his new role, he is torn between the expectations of his handlers and his own burgeoning awareness of the system's flaws. Mulden's radical ideas about individuality and the dangers of conformity resonate with him, yet he remains uncertain about the implications of his actions. The narrative builds tension as Ellaby prepares to carry out the assassination, with the weight of his decision looming over him. When the moment arrives, Ellaby confronts the Dictator, only to discover that the man he kills is not the true leader but a mere figurehead. This act of violence does not dismantle the oppressive system as he had hoped; instead, it solidifies his place within it. The realization that he has become part of the very machinery he sought to destroy leaves him in a state of existential dread. In the aftermath, Ellaby finds himself isolated in a position of power, reflecting on the nature of authority and the futility of rebellion within a self-perpetuating system. The story concludes with Ellaby's acceptance of his role, recognizing that he is neither a Dictator nor a liberator, but a cog in the wheel of a society that values conformity over individuality. The cycle of oppression continues, and Ellaby's journey serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of blind allegiance to a system that stifles true freedom.
By Stephen Marlowe · First published 1962 · Genre: Science Fiction, Dystopian, Political Thriller