Heartbeat of Gravel Star

On Gravel Star, the most water-starved desert planet in the universe, a sacred well produces "living water" and serves as the lifeline of an entire interstellar route. A Ku has guarded the well for generations. Though low in status, he is revered by all sides: whoever controls the well controls the route. A starship from an interstellar mining company bears down on the planet. After its offer to buy the well at a high price is rejected, the company cuts off A Ku's supplies and bribes the people around him. That night, when A Ku climbs down to inspect the well, he discovers that the living water is not groundwater. The bottom of the well pulses rhythmically, like a heartbeat. The water is the planet's blood. If it is overdrawn, the planet will die. And if the planet dies, the route will run dry, leaving everyone stranded in a sea of sand. Before capital destroys the planet, a lowly well keeper must force all sides to negotiate a way of life that does not kill it.