The novel “Inferno” by Mike Resnick was published for the first time in 1993. It’s the third book in the Galactic Comedy series and follows “Purgatory”.

On the planet Faligor a sentient species developed a pre-technological civilization in which a certain balance has been established among the various tribes. The Republic’s interference in the history of other more primitive species led to catastrophic results so this time humans arriving on the planet try to have a more friendly attitude towards the natives.

Through Arthur Cartright of the Department of Cartography and some other human representatives of the Republic, an attempt is being made to prepare the natives for contacts with other planets that may include business relationships. Despite good will, the balance on Faligor is destroyed.