Robur the Conqueror  (Paperback, Jules Verne)

The story follows a group of individuals who find themselves caught up in the extraordinary exploits of Robur. He has developed a remarkable aircraft called the Albatross, a massive and powerful machine that can fly through the air at high speeds. Robur sees himself as a champion of progress and a conqueror of the skies. The main protagonist of the story is a Frenchman named John Strock, who works as an agent for the Weldon Institute, a fictional scientific organization. Strock becomes embroiled in the conflict between Robur and the institute as Robur seeks to establish his dominance as the master of the skies. Robur's intentions and motives are mysterious and sometimes controversial. He believes that the Albatross represents the future of transportation and wants to use its capabilities to enforce his own vision of progress and order. However, his methods are extreme, and his actions create fear and uncertainty among those who encounter him. As the story progresses, Strock and his companions find themselves engaged in a series of thrilling adventures and dangerous encounters with Robur and his flying machine. Verne takes readers on a journey around the world, showcasing the technological wonders of the time while exploring themes of innovation, exploration, and the consequences of unchecked power.