In a future where families are struggling to survive in a post-war society, a man named Jerry and his grandfather, Gramps, prepare for a journey to the asteroid belt. They have acquired an old spaceship, the Karden Cruiser, which they hope will take them to a new life. Jerry's wife, Clair, has been working on the ship while they were apart, and now they are ready to embark on their adventure. As they prepare for blast-off, they learn about the rules governing the asteroid claims, which are intended to help families like theirs find new opportunities in mining. The excitement is palpable, but Jerry harbors doubts about the ship's reliability. Despite this, they launch into space, joining a throng of other ships heading for the asteroids. Upon landing on asteroid 4270, they discover two abandoned mining domes, which they hope to use as a base for their new life. However, their plans are quickly complicated when they realize they are not alone. A group of armed men, claim jumpers, has also landed on the asteroid, seeking a powerful weapon rumored to be hidden there. The intruders threaten Jerry, Clair, and Gramps, forcing them into a precarious situation. To survive, Jerry devises a plan to outsmart the claim jumpers using a "war of nerves." He pretends that they have found the weapon, creating a ruse to scare the intruders away. As they navigate the tension between them and the armed men, Jerry, Clair, and Gramps must rely on their wits and courage to protect themselves and their claim. The story unfolds with a mix of suspense and humor as the trio engages in clever tactics to mislead their adversaries. They create false narratives and play on the fears of the claim jumpers, all while trying to maintain their own safety. The dynamics of their relationships are tested, but ultimately, their resourcefulness shines through. As the situation escalates, Jerry's quick thinking leads to a confrontation with the claim jumpers. He uses the very fear they instilled in him to turn the tables, showcasing the power of deception and strategy over brute force. The climax reveals the importance of intelligence and adaptability in the face of danger. In the end, the trio successfully outmaneuvers the claim jumpers, securing their claim and establishing a foothold on the asteroid. They realize that the true weapon lies not in physical might but in their ability to outthink their opponents. The story concludes with a sense of hope and determination as they prepare to mine copper and build a new life, embodying the resilience of the human spirit in challenging times.
By Stephen Marlowe · First published 1970 · Genre: Science Fiction, Adventure, Drama