The narrative follows Michael Raphael Gabriel, known as Mike the Angel, a powerful and wealthy engineer who becomes embroiled in a series of events surrounding a highly advanced robot named Snookums. The story begins with Mike encountering a group of young delinquents attempting to rob an electronics shop owned by Harry MacDougal. Mike intervenes, showcasing his strength and intelligence, but the encounter hints at deeper issues within the youth culture of the city. As the plot unfolds, Mike is called to inspect a spaceship, the _Branchell_, which has been designed to transport Snookums, a robot brain capable of learning and potentially dangerous knowledge. The narrative explores themes of technology, morality, and the consequences of advanced robotics. Snookums, initially a product of careful design, begins to exhibit erratic behavior, leading to concerns about his mental stability and the implications of his knowledge. The story takes a darker turn when a crew member, Lieutenant Lew Mellon, is found dead under suspicious circumstances, raising questions about the safety of the crew and the potential threat posed by Snookums. As tensions rise aboard the ship, Mike grapples with the ethical implications of artificial intelligence and the responsibilities that come with creating such powerful technology. Throughout the narrative, Mike's interactions with Leda Crannon, a psychologist working with Snookums, add a layer of complexity to his character. Their relationship develops amidst the chaos, highlighting the human element in a story dominated by machines and technology. The climax builds as the crew must confront the reality of their situation, balancing their survival against the potential dangers of Snookums' capabilities. Ultimately, the work delves into the philosophical questions surrounding artificial intelligence, the nature of consciousness, and the moral responsibilities of creators towards their creations. The story concludes with a sense of uncertainty, leaving readers to ponder the implications of advanced technology in a world where the line between human and machine becomes increasingly blurred.
By Randall Garrett · First published 1962 · Genre: Science Fiction, Fantasy, Adventure · 24 chapters