For more than a century the loveliest planet in all the galaxy had been deserted. Alpha-II was the gem of the universe, a land of plenty blessed with blue skies and air like wine. Then came the terrible intergalactic war and Alpha-II ceased to be the garden spot of the planets. Walter, inspector for the Department of the Exterior, journeyed there in spite of the dangers of radiation. Soon he realized that greater perils lay in store for him. A race of childlike people dwelled in the lush green forests. Who were they and what weird force had shaped their lives? Walter knew he had to get away, but the lure of the beautiful, sinister planet held him fast.