The story's most important characters are the five teen-age heroes. Each of the youths has a different background and different talents. Cord MaKiy, the leader of the group, is the most well-developed character, and most of the story is told from his point of view. Raised in the wilds of the Scottish highlands, Cord has little knowledge of technology, but his independent spirit, sense of fairness, and keen abilities as a fighter make the other youths view him as their natural leader. Although Cord dislikes the idea of giving orders to other people, he accepts the responsibilities of leadership. Samella, a girl with telepathic receptivity and computer expertise, shares Cord's independent bent. The other three teens are former members of street gangs themselves and are accustomed to obeying the orders of leaders without question. The boys Jeko and Rontal are "Free Streeters," from the...