"The Moon Is Down" tells the gripping story of a small coastal town taken by surprise and overrun by an invading army. This port town, crucial because of its large coal mine, becomes the battleground for a clash of wills between the invaders and the townspeople.

Colonel Lanser, the head of the invading battalion, sets up his headquarters in the home of Mayor Orden, the town's democratically elected and popular leader. As the harsh reality of occupation sets in and the weather turns bleak, the townspeople become angry and confused. Colonel Lanser, a veteran of many wars, attempts to maintain a façade of civility, but he knows that no one remains peaceful when their freedom is taken by force.

The situation escalates when Alexander Morden, a former alderman and "a free man," is ordered to work in the mine. Striking out in defiance, Morden's actions lead to his execution, sparking a "slow, silent, waiting revenge" among the townspeople. They begin to sabotage the invaders' efforts, cutting rail links, damaging machinery, and targeting soldiers who drop their guard.

Mayor Orden stands resolute with his people, explaining to Colonel Lanser that breaking the human spirit is an impossible task. Even as the occupying force grows weary under the weight of cold weather and constant fear, the townspeople's resistance only strengthens.

In a desperate bid to suppress the resistance, the army takes Mayor Orden and his friend, Dr. Winter, hostage. But Mayor Orden knows that his spirit cannot be crushed, and he embraces his fate, reminding Dr. Winter of the enduring power of ideas and freedom.

"The Moon Is Down" is a powerful exploration of the impact of war on both the conquered and the conquerors, revealing profound truths about human nature and the indomitable will to resist oppression.