Set on an imaginary planet, this science-fiction novel follows the life of an exceptional hero from his early childhood until his death--but did he really die, or simply disappear? The story sets out with an account of the boy's formative years under the guardianship of the wise ascetic Amonio. Recognizing the boy's extraordinary physical and intellectual gifts, Amonio strives to make a humble, peaceful man out of him by cultivating his will to use his talents in the interest of others. When, at age 15, the boy executes his first heroic prowess, his popularity soared.