South to Propontis

A young Martian miner faces attempted murder by his uncle, who seeks sole possession of newly unearthed gems, and is rescued by two Earthmen whose friendly demeanor soon suggests their own claim on the loot. The tale follows his trek with these strangers across a merciless, heat-scorched desert toward the city of Propontis, portraying daily survival tasks, cramped mistrust, and the boy's persistent hope of reaching a greener world beyond. Themes include betrayal, greed, and the harsh realities of life on a barren frontier.