Many of Norton's plots set the protagonist out on his own with little or no clear mission. In Star Gate, Kincar is asked to leave his homeland and rightful inheritance to avoid the useless bloodshed his stay would surely cause.

There is no clear alternative goal for him to achieve. Where his path will take him is almost fortuitous; he might find a new world and a new adventure, or come full circle to regain his inheritance.

In Norton's science fiction stories, the hero possesses some mysterious object of ancient lore, as the "Tie" stone which Kincar carries. Although it glows when danger threatens, he does not readily understand its powers. In Star Gate, as well as in other of Norton's stories, the protagonist is capable of communication with animals who prove useful in warning him of danger as well as in helping to combat evil forces. Norton's...