The son of a CIA attorney inadvertently discovers that his father is working with aliens from another planet on a top secret project. When the aliens and CIA discover this serious security breach they insist on Peter Turner's exile to Tarizon.

Meanwhile Tarizon is recovering from a series of super volcanic eruptions that has nearly destroyed all life on the planet. Tarizon is slowly recovering ecologically but the political situation is volatile. The Purist Party, which condones slavery and promises to rid Tarizon of its growing mutant population, has just elected its leader, Videl Lai, Chancellor in a tainted election. Once in power, Chancellor Lai renounces Tarizon's constitution, The Supreme Mandate.

In response to this the Loyalist party is planning a civil war to restore rule under the Supreme Mandate, which guaranteed life, liberty and equality for all life forms on Tarizon. The Loyalist Party, however, is weak and there is little hope it will be able to defeat Videl Lai and his formidable army.

The only hope seems to be a prophecy that foretells of the arrival of a Liberator from Earth who would lead a revolt to rid Tarizon of a ruthless dictator. When the Loyalist learn of Peter's arrival from Earth, some believe he is the one promised in the Prophecy, but many are skeptical. All agree, however, that the appearance of the long anticipated Liberator, at this critical time, would greatly enhance their chances of victory over Videl Lai and the Purists.

When Videl Lai learns of Peter's imminent arrival and the possibility that he might be the Liberator, he vows to have him killed the moment he sets foot on Tarizon.