Coming of the Gods

"Coming of the Gods" by Chester Whitehorn is a mid-20th century science fiction story where Martians and Earthlings collide. It explores themes of loyalty, survival, and culture clash when Ro, a young Martian, returns home to find his village threatened by rat-like creatures called the Oan. Earth explorers have landed, only to be captured, leading Ro and his companion Na on a daring rescue mission. Ro must choose between helping the Earthlings and protecting his own people, demonstrating bravery as he confronts the Oan and ultimately makes a difficult decision about the fate of his tribe.