Short Fiction · Chapters
Chapters explained
Chapter companions for Short Fiction by Poul Anderson.
Chapter 1
Star Ship
The crew of the star ship faces challenges and adventures as they navigate through space, encountering alien cultures and internal conflicts.
Chapter 2
I
Bo Jonsson, a space miner, waits on a desolate asteroid for a man who is hunting him. He reflects on the death of his partner Johnny Malone, killed in a bar fight on the asteroid Achilles, and the events that led to his current predicament.
Chapter 3
II
Bo Jonsson, grieving the murder of his friend Johnny Malone, is stranded on the asteroid Achilles until he can find a certified partner to crew the Sirius. He hires Einar Lundgard, a spaceman stranded after an accident on the Drake. As they prepare to depart with passenger Valeria McKittrick, Bo is ambushed and shot while searching the asteroid's surface.
Chapter 4
III
Bo Jonsson, Valeria McKittrick, and Einar Lundgard travel to Luna. Lundgard, a Humanist, critiques the New Enlightenment, arguing that its faith in reason cannot solve emerging problems like automation, cultural resistance, and interplanetary fragmentation. Valeria defends her work on an interplanetary power beam as a solution to energy scarcity. Later, Bo is stranded on an asteroid after a hull breach, fighting for survival against a hidden enemy.
Chapter 5
IV
Bo Jonsson discovers that Einar Lundgard is an impostor, having found a lifelike mask and a Venusian uniform in Lundgard's luggage. Realizing Lundgard is the killer of Johnny Malone, Bo must navigate the confined space of the ship with Valeria McKittrick present, fearing for her safety. He delays their journey to Luna by altering the orbit, hoping to capture Lundgard. The tension escalates as Lundgard hunts Bo across an asteroid, leading to a deadly confrontation.
Chapter 6
Holmgang
Bo Jonsson confronts Einar Lundgard, revealing him as the murderer of his partner and a Humanist revolutionary. After a tense standoff, they agree to a duel on an asteroid, but Lundgard cheats by hiding a rifle.
Chapter 7
VI
Bo Jonsson engages in a desperate zero-gravity duel with Einar Lundgard on a barren asteroid. After a brutal hand-to-hand fight, Lundgard uses a water hose to blind Bo, forcing him to flee. Bo devises a daring orbital maneuver using an air tank to circle the asteroid and surprise Lundgard, ultimately disarming him. Bo returns to the ship Sirius, where Valeria McKittrick awaits, and he reflects on the moral weight of his actions.
Chapter 8
Tiger by the Tail
Captain Flandry is captured by the Scothani and must navigate a dangerous political game to survive.
Chapter 9
I
Bo Jonsson, a space miner, waits on a desolate asteroid for a man who is hunting him. He reflects on the death of his partner Johnny Malone, killed in a bar fight on the asteroid Achilles, and the events that led to his current predicament.
Chapter 10
II
Bo Jonsson, grieving the murder of his friend Johnny Malone, is stranded on the asteroid Achilles until he can find a certified partner to crew the Sirius. He hires Einar Lundgard, a spaceman stranded after an accident on the Drake. As they prepare to depart with passenger Valeria McKittrick, Bo is ambushed and shot while searching the asteroid's surface.
Chapter 11
III
Bo Jonsson, Valeria McKittrick, and Einar Lundgard travel to Luna. Lundgard, a Humanist, critiques the New Enlightenment, arguing that its faith in reason cannot solve emerging problems like automation, cultural resistance, and interplanetary fragmentation. Valeria defends her work on an interplanetary power beam as a solution to energy scarcity. Later, Bo is stranded on an asteroid after a hull breach, fighting for survival against a hidden enemy.
Chapter 12
IV
Bo Jonsson discovers that Einar Lundgard is an impostor, having found a lifelike mask and a Venusian uniform in Lundgard's luggage. Realizing Lundgard is the killer of Johnny Malone, Bo must navigate the confined space of the ship with Valeria McKittrick present, fearing for her safety. He delays their journey to Luna by altering the orbit, hoping to capture Lundgard. The tension escalates as Lundgard hunts Bo across an asteroid, leading to a deadly confrontation.
Chapter 13
Holmgang
Bo Jonsson confronts Einar Lundgard, revealing him as the murderer of his partner and a Humanist revolutionary. After a tense standoff, they agree to a duel on an asteroid, but Lundgard cheats by hiding a rifle.
Chapter 14
Witch of the Demon Seas
A tale of adventure and peril on the demon-haunted seas, where a witch's power and the crew's struggle for survival unfold against a backdrop of supernatural forces and human conflict.
Chapter 15
I
Bo Jonsson, a space miner, waits on a desolate asteroid for a man who is hunting him. He reflects on the death of his partner Johnny Malone, killed in a bar fight on the asteroid Achilles, and the events that led to his current predicament.
Chapter 16
II
Bo Jonsson, grieving the murder of his friend Johnny Malone, is stranded on the asteroid Achilles until he can find a certified partner to crew the Sirius. He hires Einar Lundgard, a spaceman stranded after an accident on the Drake. As they prepare to depart with passenger Valeria McKittrick, Bo is ambushed and shot while searching the asteroid's surface.
Chapter 17
III
Bo Jonsson, Valeria McKittrick, and Einar Lundgard travel to Luna. Lundgard, a Humanist, critiques the New Enlightenment, arguing that its faith in reason cannot solve emerging problems like automation, cultural resistance, and interplanetary fragmentation. Valeria defends her work on an interplanetary power beam as a solution to energy scarcity. Later, Bo is stranded on an asteroid after a hull breach, fighting for survival against a hidden enemy.
Chapter 18
IV
Bo Jonsson discovers that Einar Lundgard is an impostor, having found a lifelike mask and a Venusian uniform in Lundgard's luggage. Realizing Lundgard is the killer of Johnny Malone, Bo must navigate the confined space of the ship with Valeria McKittrick present, fearing for her safety. He delays their journey to Luna by altering the orbit, hoping to capture Lundgard. The tension escalates as Lundgard hunts Bo across an asteroid, leading to a deadly confrontation.
Chapter 19
Holmgang
Bo Jonsson confronts Einar Lundgard, revealing him as the murderer of his partner and a Humanist revolutionary. After a tense standoff, they agree to a duel on an asteroid, but Lundgard cheats by hiding a rifle.
Chapter 20
VI
Bo Jonsson engages in a desperate zero-gravity duel with Einar Lundgard on a barren asteroid. After a brutal hand-to-hand fight, Lundgard uses a water hose to blind Bo, forcing him to flee. Bo devises a daring orbital maneuver using an air tank to circle the asteroid and surprise Lundgard, ultimately disarming him. Bo returns to the ship Sirius, where Valeria McKittrick awaits, and he reflects on the moral weight of his actions.
Chapter 21
VII
Dalgetty and Elena hide on a rocky island, evading Bancroft's search parties. After a tense standoff, Elena pretends to capture Dalgetty to infiltrate the estate. A firefight erupts, Dalgetty kills several guards, and they press on to rescue Dr. Michael Tighe.
Chapter 22
VIII
Dalgetty, captured and under guard, is brought before Bancroft. Through a ruse and with Elena's covert assistance, he overpowers the guards and frees Dr. Tighe. They take Bancroft hostage, commandeer his jet, and escape.
Chapter 23
IX
Dalgetty, exhausted from his ordeal, reveals the secret of his enhanced abilities to Elena Casimir, explaining the Institute's training that integrates conscious and subconscious control. Elena grapples with the implications and her trust in him, ultimately offering her support as he faces a necessary nervous breakdown.
Chapter 24
The Breaking of the Geas
Corun awakens after a fierce battle, injured and disoriented, to find Chryseis caring for him. She reveals that her love for him has broken Shorzon's geas that controlled her. She promises to help him escape to Achaera, but Corun decides instead to serve Khroman, hoping to eventually bring equality to his people. They are found by Captain Imazu, who helps them return to the ship.
Chapter 25
World of the Mad
Joe Langdon, an immortal colonist on the alien planet Tanith, reflects on his love for the mortal Eileen and the vast gulf in experience between them. He walks through the planet's surreal, ever-changing landscape, encountering mirages of an ancient non-human city and the haunting, beautiful phenomena of the world. Eileen, terrified by the planet's incomprehensible and shifting reality, succumbs to madness as Langdon is drawn into a rapturous communion with Tanith's storm, ultimately torn between his love for her and his profound bond with the planet.
Chapter 26
Duel on Syrtis
Kreega, a Martian, is hunted by the wealthy Earthman Riordan, who has trapped him within a radioactive circle on Mars. Using native animals and his wits, Kreega fights back against the hunter, ultimately drawing on the spirit of the desert and its creatures to resist the desecration of his world.
Chapter 27
Inside Earth
The chapter delves into the internal conflicts and political machinations on Earth, exploring the tensions between different factions and the struggle for control over the planet's future.
Chapter 28
I
Bo Jonsson, a space miner, waits on a desolate asteroid for a man who is hunting him. He reflects on the death of his partner Johnny Malone, killed in a bar fight on the asteroid Achilles, and the events that led to his current predicament.
Chapter 29
II
Bo Jonsson, grieving the murder of his friend Johnny Malone, is stranded on the asteroid Achilles until he can find a certified partner to crew the Sirius. He hires Einar Lundgard, a spaceman stranded after an accident on the Drake. As they prepare to depart with passenger Valeria McKittrick, Bo is ambushed and shot while searching the asteroid's surface.
Chapter 30
III
Bo Jonsson, Valeria McKittrick, and Einar Lundgard travel to Luna. Lundgard, a Humanist, critiques the New Enlightenment, arguing that its faith in reason cannot solve emerging problems like automation, cultural resistance, and interplanetary fragmentation. Valeria defends her work on an interplanetary power beam as a solution to energy scarcity. Later, Bo is stranded on an asteroid after a hull breach, fighting for survival against a hidden enemy.
Chapter 31
IV
Bo Jonsson discovers that Einar Lundgard is an impostor, having found a lifelike mask and a Venusian uniform in Lundgard's luggage. Realizing Lundgard is the killer of Johnny Malone, Bo must navigate the confined space of the ship with Valeria McKittrick present, fearing for her safety. He delays their journey to Luna by altering the orbit, hoping to capture Lundgard. The tension escalates as Lundgard hunts Bo across an asteroid, leading to a deadly confrontation.
Chapter 32
Holmgang
Bo Jonsson confronts Einar Lundgard, revealing him as the murderer of his partner and a Humanist revolutionary. After a tense standoff, they agree to a duel on an asteroid, but Lundgard cheats by hiding a rifle.
Chapter 33
VI
Bo Jonsson engages in a desperate zero-gravity duel with Einar Lundgard on a barren asteroid. After a brutal hand-to-hand fight, Lundgard uses a water hose to blind Bo, forcing him to flee. Bo devises a daring orbital maneuver using an air tank to circle the asteroid and surprise Lundgard, ultimately disarming him. Bo returns to the ship Sirius, where Valeria McKittrick awaits, and he reflects on the moral weight of his actions.
Chapter 34
VII
Dalgetty and Elena hide on a rocky island, evading Bancroft's search parties. After a tense standoff, Elena pretends to capture Dalgetty to infiltrate the estate. A firefight erupts, Dalgetty kills several guards, and they press on to rescue Dr. Michael Tighe.
Chapter 35
VIII
Dalgetty, captured and under guard, is brought before Bancroft. Through a ruse and with Elena's covert assistance, he overpowers the guards and frees Dr. Tighe. They take Bancroft hostage, commandeer his jet, and escape.
Chapter 36
I
Bo Jonsson, a space miner, waits on a desolate asteroid for a man who is hunting him. He reflects on the death of his partner Johnny Malone, killed in a bar fight on the asteroid Achilles, and the events that led to his current predicament.
Chapter 37
II
Bo Jonsson, grieving the murder of his friend Johnny Malone, is stranded on the asteroid Achilles until he can find a certified partner to crew the Sirius. He hires Einar Lundgard, a spaceman stranded after an accident on the Drake. As they prepare to depart with passenger Valeria McKittrick, Bo is ambushed and shot while searching the asteroid's surface.
Chapter 38
III
Bo Jonsson, Valeria McKittrick, and Einar Lundgard travel to Luna. Lundgard, a Humanist, critiques the New Enlightenment, arguing that its faith in reason cannot solve emerging problems like automation, cultural resistance, and interplanetary fragmentation. Valeria defends her work on an interplanetary power beam as a solution to energy scarcity. Later, Bo is stranded on an asteroid after a hull breach, fighting for survival against a hidden enemy.
Chapter 39
IV
Bo Jonsson discovers that Einar Lundgard is an impostor, having found a lifelike mask and a Venusian uniform in Lundgard's luggage. Realizing Lundgard is the killer of Johnny Malone, Bo must navigate the confined space of the ship with Valeria McKittrick present, fearing for her safety. He delays their journey to Luna by altering the orbit, hoping to capture Lundgard. The tension escalates as Lundgard hunts Bo across an asteroid, leading to a deadly confrontation.
Chapter 40
Holmgang
Bo Jonsson confronts Einar Lundgard, revealing him as the murderer of his partner and a Humanist revolutionary. After a tense standoff, they agree to a duel on an asteroid, but Lundgard cheats by hiding a rifle.
Chapter 41
VI
Bo Jonsson engages in a desperate zero-gravity duel with Einar Lundgard on a barren asteroid. After a brutal hand-to-hand fight, Lundgard uses a water hose to blind Bo, forcing him to flee. Bo devises a daring orbital maneuver using an air tank to circle the asteroid and surprise Lundgard, ultimately disarming him. Bo returns to the ship Sirius, where Valeria McKittrick awaits, and he reflects on the moral weight of his actions.
Chapter 42
Lord of a Thousand Suns
In the Explorers' Club on the Moon, Lieutenant John Laird recounts to a fellow spaceman his encounter with a ghost-like entity from the dead Vwyrddan civilization. He tells of being possessed by Daryesh, an ancient Vwyrddan consciousness, while on a mission with the Janyard officer Joana Rostov. The two personalities now share a single body, plotting against each other—Laird seeks to destroy the Janyard ship and save Earth, while Daryesh schemes to use the Vwyrddan weapons to secure his own immortality and dominance.
Chapter 43
Swordsman of Lost Terra
The third book of the Story of the Men of Killorn recounts Red Bram's battle against the Ganasthi from the lands of darkness, Kery son of Rhiach's anger, and the pipe of the gods speaking once more.
Chapter 44
I
Bo Jonsson, a space miner, waits on a desolate asteroid for a man who is hunting him. He reflects on the death of his partner Johnny Malone, killed in a bar fight on the asteroid Achilles, and the events that led to his current predicament.
Chapter 45
II
Bo Jonsson, grieving the murder of his friend Johnny Malone, is stranded on the asteroid Achilles until he can find a certified partner to crew the Sirius. He hires Einar Lundgard, a spaceman stranded after an accident on the Drake. As they prepare to depart with passenger Valeria McKittrick, Bo is ambushed and shot while searching the asteroid's surface.
Chapter 46
III
Bo Jonsson, Valeria McKittrick, and Einar Lundgard travel to Luna. Lundgard, a Humanist, critiques the New Enlightenment, arguing that its faith in reason cannot solve emerging problems like automation, cultural resistance, and interplanetary fragmentation. Valeria defends her work on an interplanetary power beam as a solution to energy scarcity. Later, Bo is stranded on an asteroid after a hull breach, fighting for survival against a hidden enemy.
Chapter 47
IV
Bo Jonsson discovers that Einar Lundgard is an impostor, having found a lifelike mask and a Venusian uniform in Lundgard's luggage. Realizing Lundgard is the killer of Johnny Malone, Bo must navigate the confined space of the ship with Valeria McKittrick present, fearing for her safety. He delays their journey to Luna by altering the orbit, hoping to capture Lundgard. The tension escalates as Lundgard hunts Bo across an asteroid, leading to a deadly confrontation.
Chapter 48
Holmgang
Bo Jonsson confronts Einar Lundgard, revealing him as the murderer of his partner and a Humanist revolutionary. After a tense standoff, they agree to a duel on an asteroid, but Lundgard cheats by hiding a rifle.
Chapter 49
VI
Bo Jonsson engages in a desperate zero-gravity duel with Einar Lundgard on a barren asteroid. After a brutal hand-to-hand fight, Lundgard uses a water hose to blind Bo, forcing him to flee. Bo devises a daring orbital maneuver using an air tank to circle the asteroid and surprise Lundgard, ultimately disarming him. Bo returns to the ship Sirius, where Valeria McKittrick awaits, and he reflects on the moral weight of his actions.
Chapter 50
VII
Dalgetty and Elena hide on a rocky island, evading Bancroft's search parties. After a tense standoff, Elena pretends to capture Dalgetty to infiltrate the estate. A firefight erupts, Dalgetty kills several guards, and they press on to rescue Dr. Michael Tighe.
Chapter 51
VIII
Dalgetty, captured and under guard, is brought before Bancroft. Through a ruse and with Elena's covert assistance, he overpowers the guards and frees Dr. Tighe. They take Bancroft hostage, commandeer his jet, and escape.
Chapter 52
IX
Dalgetty, exhausted from his ordeal, reveals the secret of his enhanced abilities to Elena Casimir, explaining the Institute's training that integrates conscious and subconscious control. Elena grapples with the implications and her trust in him, ultimately offering her support as he faces a necessary nervous breakdown.
Chapter 53
Sargasso of Lost Starships
The chapter details the discovery and exploration of a graveyard of ancient starships, where the crew encounters remnants of lost civilizations and faces the dangers of the derelict vessels.
Chapter 54
I
Bo Jonsson, a space miner, waits on a desolate asteroid for a man who is hunting him. He reflects on the death of his partner Johnny Malone, killed in a bar fight on the asteroid Achilles, and the events that led to his current predicament.
Chapter 55
II
Bo Jonsson, grieving the murder of his friend Johnny Malone, is stranded on the asteroid Achilles until he can find a certified partner to crew the Sirius. He hires Einar Lundgard, a spaceman stranded after an accident on the Drake. As they prepare to depart with passenger Valeria McKittrick, Bo is ambushed and shot while searching the asteroid's surface.
Chapter 56
III
Bo Jonsson, Valeria McKittrick, and Einar Lundgard travel to Luna. Lundgard, a Humanist, critiques the New Enlightenment, arguing that its faith in reason cannot solve emerging problems like automation, cultural resistance, and interplanetary fragmentation. Valeria defends her work on an interplanetary power beam as a solution to energy scarcity. Later, Bo is stranded on an asteroid after a hull breach, fighting for survival against a hidden enemy.
Chapter 57
IV
Bo Jonsson discovers that Einar Lundgard is an impostor, having found a lifelike mask and a Venusian uniform in Lundgard's luggage. Realizing Lundgard is the killer of Johnny Malone, Bo must navigate the confined space of the ship with Valeria McKittrick present, fearing for her safety. He delays their journey to Luna by altering the orbit, hoping to capture Lundgard. The tension escalates as Lundgard hunts Bo across an asteroid, leading to a deadly confrontation.
Chapter 58
Holmgang
Bo Jonsson confronts Einar Lundgard, revealing him as the murderer of his partner and a Humanist revolutionary. After a tense standoff, they agree to a duel on an asteroid, but Lundgard cheats by hiding a rifle.
Chapter 59
VI
Bo Jonsson engages in a desperate zero-gravity duel with Einar Lundgard on a barren asteroid. After a brutal hand-to-hand fight, Lundgard uses a water hose to blind Bo, forcing him to flee. Bo devises a daring orbital maneuver using an air tank to circle the asteroid and surprise Lundgard, ultimately disarming him. Bo returns to the ship Sirius, where Valeria McKittrick awaits, and he reflects on the moral weight of his actions.
Chapter 60
VII
Dalgetty and Elena hide on a rocky island, evading Bancroft's search parties. After a tense standoff, Elena pretends to capture Dalgetty to infiltrate the estate. A firefight erupts, Dalgetty kills several guards, and they press on to rescue Dr. Michael Tighe.
Chapter 61
Captive of the Centaurianess
The chapter opens with a reflection on the enigmatic nature of heroes, using the examples of Dyann Korlas, Urushkidan, and Ballantyne, whose actions shaped history but remain ultimately mysterious.
Chapter 62
I
Bo Jonsson, a space miner, waits on a desolate asteroid for a man who is hunting him. He reflects on the death of his partner Johnny Malone, killed in a bar fight on the asteroid Achilles, and the events that led to his current predicament.
Chapter 63
II
Bo Jonsson, grieving the murder of his friend Johnny Malone, is stranded on the asteroid Achilles until he can find a certified partner to crew the Sirius. He hires Einar Lundgard, a spaceman stranded after an accident on the Drake. As they prepare to depart with passenger Valeria McKittrick, Bo is ambushed and shot while searching the asteroid's surface.
Chapter 64
III
Bo Jonsson, Valeria McKittrick, and Einar Lundgard travel to Luna. Lundgard, a Humanist, critiques the New Enlightenment, arguing that its faith in reason cannot solve emerging problems like automation, cultural resistance, and interplanetary fragmentation. Valeria defends her work on an interplanetary power beam as a solution to energy scarcity. Later, Bo is stranded on an asteroid after a hull breach, fighting for survival against a hidden enemy.
Chapter 65
IV
Bo Jonsson discovers that Einar Lundgard is an impostor, having found a lifelike mask and a Venusian uniform in Lundgard's luggage. Realizing Lundgard is the killer of Johnny Malone, Bo must navigate the confined space of the ship with Valeria McKittrick present, fearing for her safety. He delays their journey to Luna by altering the orbit, hoping to capture Lundgard. The tension escalates as Lundgard hunts Bo across an asteroid, leading to a deadly confrontation.
Chapter 66
Holmgang
Bo Jonsson confronts Einar Lundgard, revealing him as the murderer of his partner and a Humanist revolutionary. After a tense standoff, they agree to a duel on an asteroid, but Lundgard cheats by hiding a rifle.
Chapter 67
VI
Bo Jonsson engages in a desperate zero-gravity duel with Einar Lundgard on a barren asteroid. After a brutal hand-to-hand fight, Lundgard uses a water hose to blind Bo, forcing him to flee. Bo devises a daring orbital maneuver using an air tank to circle the asteroid and surprise Lundgard, ultimately disarming him. Bo returns to the ship Sirius, where Valeria McKittrick awaits, and he reflects on the moral weight of his actions.
Chapter 68
VII
Dalgetty and Elena hide on a rocky island, evading Bancroft's search parties. After a tense standoff, Elena pretends to capture Dalgetty to infiltrate the estate. A firefight erupts, Dalgetty kills several guards, and they press on to rescue Dr. Michael Tighe.
Chapter 69
Security
Allen Lancaster, a physicist on a remote space station, is drawn into a web of political intrigue and personal awakening. Through conversations with the cynical Berg and the sympathetic Karen, he confronts the reality of a totalitarian United States that has maintained a 72-year state of emergency since losing World War III. Berg reveals the existence of a powerful underground resistance and a new weapon that could shift the balance of power. Lancaster, initially loyal and naive, gradually questions his beliefs, ultimately choosing to join the rebels after learning they tricked him into being sent to the station to secure his scientific expertise. The chapter explores themes of freedom, loyalty, and the moral compromises of security.
Chapter 70
Sentiment, Inc.
Colin Fraser confronts Dr. Kennedy, who reveals his vast mind-control network and his grand plan to manipulate world leaders for peace. Fraser, unable to save his fiancée Judy from being conditioned to love another man, resolves to fight back through unconventional means, despite being shadowed and threatened.
Chapter 71
I
Bo Jonsson, a space miner, waits on a desolate asteroid for a man who is hunting him. He reflects on the death of his partner Johnny Malone, killed in a bar fight on the asteroid Achilles, and the events that led to his current predicament.
Chapter 72
II
Bo Jonsson, grieving the murder of his friend Johnny Malone, is stranded on the asteroid Achilles until he can find a certified partner to crew the Sirius. He hires Einar Lundgard, a spaceman stranded after an accident on the Drake. As they prepare to depart with passenger Valeria McKittrick, Bo is ambushed and shot while searching the asteroid's surface.
Chapter 73
III
Bo Jonsson, Valeria McKittrick, and Einar Lundgard travel to Luna. Lundgard, a Humanist, critiques the New Enlightenment, arguing that its faith in reason cannot solve emerging problems like automation, cultural resistance, and interplanetary fragmentation. Valeria defends her work on an interplanetary power beam as a solution to energy scarcity. Later, Bo is stranded on an asteroid after a hull breach, fighting for survival against a hidden enemy.
Chapter 74
IV
Bo Jonsson discovers that Einar Lundgard is an impostor, having found a lifelike mask and a Venusian uniform in Lundgard's luggage. Realizing Lundgard is the killer of Johnny Malone, Bo must navigate the confined space of the ship with Valeria McKittrick present, fearing for her safety. He delays their journey to Luna by altering the orbit, hoping to capture Lundgard. The tension escalates as Lundgard hunts Bo across an asteroid, leading to a deadly confrontation.
Chapter 75
The Temple of Earth
Rayth reveals the true history of the Fall from Earth to Leda and Rikard, explaining that humanity originally came from Earth for mining, that a war destroyed civilization, and that the Copers have preserved more knowledge. Later, Rayth assassinates the Chief Engineer and leads his personal guards to seize the Temple amid a riot, with Rikard and Leda secretly planning to betray him and side with the Temple.
Chapter 76
I
Bo Jonsson, a space miner, waits on a desolate asteroid for a man who is hunting him. He reflects on the death of his partner Johnny Malone, killed in a bar fight on the asteroid Achilles, and the events that led to his current predicament.
Chapter 77
II
Bo Jonsson, grieving the murder of his friend Johnny Malone, is stranded on the asteroid Achilles until he can find a certified partner to crew the Sirius. He hires Einar Lundgard, a spaceman stranded after an accident on the Drake. As they prepare to depart with passenger Valeria McKittrick, Bo is ambushed and shot while searching the asteroid's surface.
Chapter 78
III
Bo Jonsson, Valeria McKittrick, and Einar Lundgard travel to Luna. Lundgard, a Humanist, critiques the New Enlightenment, arguing that its faith in reason cannot solve emerging problems like automation, cultural resistance, and interplanetary fragmentation. Valeria defends her work on an interplanetary power beam as a solution to energy scarcity. Later, Bo is stranded on an asteroid after a hull breach, fighting for survival against a hidden enemy.
Chapter 79
IV
Bo Jonsson discovers that Einar Lundgard is an impostor, having found a lifelike mask and a Venusian uniform in Lundgard's luggage. Realizing Lundgard is the killer of Johnny Malone, Bo must navigate the confined space of the ship with Valeria McKittrick present, fearing for her safety. He delays their journey to Luna by altering the orbit, hoping to capture Lundgard. The tension escalates as Lundgard hunts Bo across an asteroid, leading to a deadly confrontation.
Chapter 80
The Sensitive Man
A man with heightened sensory abilities navigates a complex social and political landscape, using his unique perceptions to uncover hidden truths and manipulate those around him.
Chapter 81
I
Bo Jonsson, a space miner, waits on a desolate asteroid for a man who is hunting him. He reflects on the death of his partner Johnny Malone, killed in a bar fight on the asteroid Achilles, and the events that led to his current predicament.
Chapter 82
II
Bo Jonsson, grieving the murder of his friend Johnny Malone, is stranded on the asteroid Achilles until he can find a certified partner to crew the Sirius. He hires Einar Lundgard, a spaceman stranded after an accident on the Drake. As they prepare to depart with passenger Valeria McKittrick, Bo is ambushed and shot while searching the asteroid's surface.
Chapter 83
III
Bo Jonsson, Valeria McKittrick, and Einar Lundgard travel to Luna. Lundgard, a Humanist, critiques the New Enlightenment, arguing that its faith in reason cannot solve emerging problems like automation, cultural resistance, and interplanetary fragmentation. Valeria defends her work on an interplanetary power beam as a solution to energy scarcity. Later, Bo is stranded on an asteroid after a hull breach, fighting for survival against a hidden enemy.
Chapter 84
IV
Bo Jonsson discovers that Einar Lundgard is an impostor, having found a lifelike mask and a Venusian uniform in Lundgard's luggage. Realizing Lundgard is the killer of Johnny Malone, Bo must navigate the confined space of the ship with Valeria McKittrick present, fearing for her safety. He delays their journey to Luna by altering the orbit, hoping to capture Lundgard. The tension escalates as Lundgard hunts Bo across an asteroid, leading to a deadly confrontation.
Chapter 85
Holmgang
Bo Jonsson confronts Einar Lundgard, revealing him as the murderer of his partner and a Humanist revolutionary. After a tense standoff, they agree to a duel on an asteroid, but Lundgard cheats by hiding a rifle.
Chapter 86
VI
Bo Jonsson engages in a desperate zero-gravity duel with Einar Lundgard on a barren asteroid. After a brutal hand-to-hand fight, Lundgard uses a water hose to blind Bo, forcing him to flee. Bo devises a daring orbital maneuver using an air tank to circle the asteroid and surprise Lundgard, ultimately disarming him. Bo returns to the ship Sirius, where Valeria McKittrick awaits, and he reflects on the moral weight of his actions.
Chapter 87
VII
Dalgetty and Elena hide on a rocky island, evading Bancroft's search parties. After a tense standoff, Elena pretends to capture Dalgetty to infiltrate the estate. A firefight erupts, Dalgetty kills several guards, and they press on to rescue Dr. Michael Tighe.
Chapter 88
VIII
Dalgetty, captured and under guard, is brought before Bancroft. Through a ruse and with Elena's covert assistance, he overpowers the guards and frees Dr. Tighe. They take Bancroft hostage, commandeer his jet, and escape.
Chapter 89
IX
Dalgetty, exhausted from his ordeal, reveals the secret of his enhanced abilities to Elena Casimir, explaining the Institute's training that integrates conscious and subconscious control. Elena grapples with the implications and her trust in him, ultimately offering her support as he faces a necessary nervous breakdown.
Chapter 90
Snowball
Simon Arch, a physicist, and his wife Elizabeth invent a revolutionary dielectric material called capacitite. As its potential becomes clear, the government and media react, and societal unrest begins to grow. Arch struggles with the unintended consequences of his discovery.
Chapter 91
I
Bo Jonsson, a space miner, waits on a desolate asteroid for a man who is hunting him. He reflects on the death of his partner Johnny Malone, killed in a bar fight on the asteroid Achilles, and the events that led to his current predicament.
Chapter 92
II
Bo Jonsson, grieving the murder of his friend Johnny Malone, is stranded on the asteroid Achilles until he can find a certified partner to crew the Sirius. He hires Einar Lundgard, a spaceman stranded after an accident on the Drake. As they prepare to depart with passenger Valeria McKittrick, Bo is ambushed and shot while searching the asteroid's surface.
Chapter 93
III
Bo Jonsson, Valeria McKittrick, and Einar Lundgard travel to Luna. Lundgard, a Humanist, critiques the New Enlightenment, arguing that its faith in reason cannot solve emerging problems like automation, cultural resistance, and interplanetary fragmentation. Valeria defends her work on an interplanetary power beam as a solution to energy scarcity. Later, Bo is stranded on an asteroid after a hull breach, fighting for survival against a hidden enemy.
Chapter 94
IV
Bo Jonsson discovers that Einar Lundgard is an impostor, having found a lifelike mask and a Venusian uniform in Lundgard's luggage. Realizing Lundgard is the killer of Johnny Malone, Bo must navigate the confined space of the ship with Valeria McKittrick present, fearing for her safety. He delays their journey to Luna by altering the orbit, hoping to capture Lundgard. The tension escalates as Lundgard hunts Bo across an asteroid, leading to a deadly confrontation.
Chapter 95
Holmgang
Bo Jonsson confronts Einar Lundgard, revealing him as the murderer of his partner and a Humanist revolutionary. After a tense standoff, they agree to a duel on an asteroid, but Lundgard cheats by hiding a rifle.
Chapter 96
VI
Bo Jonsson engages in a desperate zero-gravity duel with Einar Lundgard on a barren asteroid. After a brutal hand-to-hand fight, Lundgard uses a water hose to blind Bo, forcing him to flee. Bo devises a daring orbital maneuver using an air tank to circle the asteroid and surprise Lundgard, ultimately disarming him. Bo returns to the ship Sirius, where Valeria McKittrick awaits, and he reflects on the moral weight of his actions.
Chapter 97
Catalysis
As the temperature plummets inside the dome on Neptune, the colonists face a life-threatening crisis. Thomas Gilchrist and Catherine Bardas struggle to maintain order and hope while the heating system fails, forcing everyone to huddle together in the cold. The chapter explores human frailty, the thin margin between survival and death, and the psychological strain of isolation.
Chapter 98
What Shall It Profit?
Arnold Radek, a journalist and commentator, confronts Dr. Marcus Lang at the Institute of Human Biology, demanding to know if they have discovered a cure for aging. Lang admits to promising research but insists it will take a century to develop. Radek, suspicious and driven by the potential for immortality, investigates the Institute's secrecy and history, ultimately flying to their remote facility in the Four Corners country to press his case.
Chapter 99
The Valor of Cappen Varra
Cappen Varra, a wandering bard from the south, endures a brutal winter storm at sea aboard King Svearek's longship. After the ship is wrecked on a desolate island, Cappen ventures alone to a cave inhabited by a troll-wife. Armed with a silver amulet given by a wizard and his own lack of fear, he boldly confronts the troll to obtain fire. His courage and cleverness lead him to rescue the king's daughter, earning Svearek's gratitude and an offer of marriage and rule, but Cappen ultimately slips away southward.
Chapter 100
Innocent at Large
Peter Matheny, a Martian, is blackmailed by Sam Wendt and Gus Doran for a million dollars over a fabricated affair with Wendt's wife. Doran initially poses as a friend but is complicit in the scheme. Later, Matheny reveals he filmed the encounter, turning the tables. He discusses Mars's economic struggles with Doran, who offers to help find a con man to boost Mars's finances, leading to a night of drinking and planning.
Chapter 101
Industrial Revolution
Mike Blades and his partner Jimmy Chung navigate the political and economic tensions of asteroid mining, confronting government interference and corporate greed while defending their self-sufficient enterprise. Blades clashes with Ellen over ideology, then orchestrates a risky plan to prevent the Navy from seizing a missile, coercing Captain Janichevski into cooperation.
