
A covert operative has undergone a radical biological makeover, reshaping his ears, skin tone, and even implanted languages so he can pass as a native Earthling. He steps out of the high‑tech hospital into a bustling colonial hub where alien soldiers, traders and strangers mingle under a scorching sun, all while the empire’s grip tightens. The transformation feels perfect—his new blond hair and bronze complexion conceal a hidden agenda, and the disguise is designed to last a lifetime.
As he navigates crowded streets filled with towering Valgolian troops and exotic visitors, the protagonist senses the simmering tension between the occupying forces and the restless locals. A sudden clash with a young recruit hints at the underlying hostility that fuels a growing rebellion. The story follows his uneasy walk between two worlds, exploring the moral cost of deception and the fragile line between loyalty and survival.
Language
en
Duration
~1 hours (96K characters)
Publisher of text edition
Project Gutenberg
Credits
Produced by Greg Weeks, Mary Meehan and the Online Distributed Proofreading Team at http://www.pgdp.net
Release date
2016-02-11
Rights
Public domain in the USA.

1926–2001
Best known for bringing big scientific ideas and mythic adventure together, this prolific writer helped shape modern science fiction and fantasy across more than five decades. His stories are celebrated for their energy, intelligence, and strong sense of wonder.
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