The Eagles Gather

"The Eagles Gather" by Joseph E. Kelleam is a science fiction story that was published in the early 1940s. The narrative explores the aftermath of a devastating conflict between various warlords and their mercenaries, focusing on themes of human greed, ambition, and the consequences of unchecked violence. The setting is a desolate, post-apocalyptic Earth, where resources are scarce, and the characters are left to grapple with their choices and the futility of their previous pursuits. The story revolves around Jim Duane, a professional soldier who finds himself waiting on a ruined landing field after the mercenary wars, reflecting on the destruction that has befallen humanity. He encounters a series of characters, including a self-proclaimed "Captain" and two other drifters, each with their own troubled pasts. As they engage in a tense, survival-focused dialogue, the story peaks with a violent confrontation involving a man named Ted Shafer, who claims to know the location of uranium, a highly coveted resource. The narrative ultimately addresses the lessons of personal growth and self-control, implying that humanity must first conquer its internal battles before venturing into the stars once more.