The narrative follows a space prospector who captures a rare creature known as a smiley from Mimas, Saturn's moon. This creature, named Joey, possesses a euphoric aura that promotes peace and brotherhood, making it highly sought after. The protagonist, Bill Bailey, aims to sell Joey for a significant profit to settle debts and enjoy a lavish lifestyle. However, his plans are complicated when he encounters Captain Giles of the spaceport police and is subsequently ambushed by thugs working for Hume Shanig, a powerful and unscrupulous businessman. After being coerced into selling Joey to Shanig, Bill realizes he has been tricked into signing a contract that forfeits his ship and the smiley. In a desperate attempt to reclaim his assets, he hides another smiley, Cora, in an abandoned facility. As events unfold, Bill learns that Shanig's greed leads to chaos when Joey and Cora are brought together, causing a shift in their aura from euphoric to aggressive, resulting in widespread disorder at the Argonaut Club. Cheryl Trayne, Shanig's secretary, becomes an unexpected ally, helping Bill navigate the treacherous situation. Together, they devise a plan to confront Shanig and rescue Perry Acree, a sycophant who inadvertently caused Bill's troubles. The climax occurs when Bill uses Cora's influence to turn the tables on Shanig, leading to his arrest and a court ruling that forces Shanig to care for the now-mated smileys. In the end, Bill's financial troubles are alleviated, and he contemplates a future with Cheryl, who expresses a desire for marriage. The story concludes with Bill optimistic about his prospects, both in business and in love, as he prepares to embark on a new adventure with Cheryl by his side.
By Roger Dee Aycock · First published 1976 · Genre: Science Fiction, Adventure, Fantasy · 6 chapters