
In a dank, underground cell on the alien world Altair V, a seasoned Terran negotiator, Meyerhoff, faces a gaunt, talkative prisoner named Zeckler. The two men clash over promises of wealth, extradition papers, and the harsh reality of a planet where the law is as alien as its inhabitants. As Meyerhoff uncovers the true nature of Zeckler’s crime, the stakes rise beyond a simple rescue, hinting at a legal maze that could trap both parties.
The narrative blends gritty world‑building with sharp dialogue, drawing listeners into a tense encounter between human bureaucracy and the unforgiving customs of an extraterrestrial society. With each revelation, the fragile balance of power shifts, and the looming trial promises a battle of wits that will test Meyerhoff’s resolve and the very meaning of “brotherhood” among strangers.
Language
en
Duration
~33 minutes (32K characters)
Publisher of text edition
Project Gutenberg
Credits
Produced by Greg Weeks, Stephen Blundell and the Online Distributed Proofreading Team at https://www.pgdp.net
Release date
2008-01-14
Rights
Public domain in the USA.

1928–1992
A doctor who brought real medical insight into science fiction, he wrote fast-moving stories for both young readers and adults. His books often mix big ideas with a practical feel that comes from someone who knew medicine from the inside.
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