This One Problem

"This One Problem" by M. C. Pease is a science fiction novel set in a future where piracy disrupts the tenuous peace in the Solar System. Written in the mid-20th century, the narrative explores themes of morality, survival, and the complexities of human nature amidst lawlessness. The story revolves around Marc Polder, a comptroller for the Asteroid Development Company, who must navigate a perilous environment dominated by pirates in order to protect valuable resources. The plot unfolds in a desolate asteroid called Torran, where Marc and his assistant, Lee Treynor, face an impending raid by the notorious pirate John Mantor. As chaos looms, Marc's pragmatic approach to navigating the dangers of piracy puts him at odds with Lee's idealistic expectations of heroism and justice. As Mantor's crew prepares to raid a Navy warehouse, Marc must find a way to outthink the pirates while connecting with Lee on a deeper level. Ultimately, the narrative delves into the choices they must make in the face of peril, with Marc leveraging cunning and strategy over brute force, culminating in a twist that challenges the characters' understanding of courage and sacrifice.