Pollution and overpopulation threaten to destroy the planet Haven until the Scientists Guild take control. They are Jarel's heroes, so he trains hard and joins the guild. After his first day, Jarel loses his naivety. Yet the oath is for life. When he discovers dramatic changes will occur in human anatomy, he knows the two main guilds will not allow them to happen. Questionable accidents kill any scientists who oppose their guild, meaning Jarel has to plan carefully. Escaping death becomes problematical, so he finds the only dangerous alternative. Spies and spying devices mean trust is difficult. Somehow, he has to survive to complete his plans and ensure nothing interferes with natural human development. The Antarsia Project will only change their star system by a little. Unknown to him, his efforts will affect every human in the galaxy for centuries to come.