The Starcomber

Take two parts of Beelzebub, two of Israfel, one of Monte Cristo, one of Cyrano, mix violently, season with mystery and you have Mr. Solon Aquila. He is tall, gaunt, sprightly in manner, bitter in expression, and when he laughs his dark eyes turn into wounds. His occupation is unknown. He is wealthy without visible means of support. He is seen everywhere and understood nowhere.

Alfred Bester (1913-1987) was an American science fiction writer and screenwriter whose work became central to the development of modern speculative fiction. Best known for his novels The Demolished Man and The Stars My Destination, Bester combined imaginative concepts with fast-paced storytelling and psychological depth. His innovative approach to science fiction earned him the first Hugo Award for Best Novel and established him as one of the most influential writers of the genre.