Young Viscount Charteris--more generallly known as Anthony Villiers--is the coolest and deepest hero in science fiction. You can ask others about his motives, but the truths will never quite agree. The only way to learn is to watch him closely and beware the dazzle. His traveling companion is a Trog named Torve--alien, enigmatic, disturbing and dangerous to be near. When the two land on the planet Delbalso to pursue their own particular ends their coming is accompanied by question and chaos and so is their departure. In between there's a party that's worth donning a mask to attend.