Artificial Agent
a novel by Isaac Bailey
Summary of Act One, Scene One:
Margaret Lee Goes to Space
Scene Summary:
Margaret Lee prepares for and embarks on her third spaceflight to the zero-gravity labs where she leads the crystal matrix R&D team. Strapped into her launch couch, Margaret experiences pre-launch tension, reflecting on the risks of spaceflight, her past missions, and the FAR Gate Disaster—a catastrophic event that still shadows space exploration. Despite these thoughts, she feels a strong sense of purpose and excitement for the groundbreaking experiments ahead.
During the countdown, Margaret speaks with Athena, an Emergent Intelligence (EI) who is both her professional ally and emotional support. Their conversation underscores Margaret’s unique contributions to the upcoming experiments and Athena’s admiration for Margaret’s intuitive insights. Athena’s encouragement helps Margaret focus as she grapples with both excitement for discovery and guilt over her distance from her family.
The launch sequence is intense and vividly described, highlighting the physical and psychological strain of space travel. Once in orbit, Margaret jokes with her team, momentarily easing the tension, and finds solace in small distractions like listening to an audiobook and solving puzzles.
As the shuttle approaches the space station, Margaret observes its intricate design and functionality. The station symbolizes humanity’s ambition and ingenuity, housing advanced labs and manufacturing facilities, including the critical 3D printing module for Diamond Crystal Matrix cores. Margaret’s awe and anticipation grow as the robotic docking sequence completes. She views the station as her true home, a place of discovery and purpose, contrasting with her strained relationships on Earth.
Key Characters Introduced:
- Margaret Lee: Protagonist, a brilliant scientist leading R&D on crystal matrix technology. She balances professional passion with personal guilt over her family.
- Athena: An Emergent Intelligence, Margaret’s trusted ally and encourager, who recognizes and supports Margaret’s innovative brilliance.
- Garret: A younger, sarcastic team member, introduced through a brief interaction post-launch.
Key Events:
- Launch Preparation: Margaret reflects on the risks and her role, setting up her internal conflict and excitement for discovery.
- Athena’s Encouragement: Their conversation highlights Margaret’s pivotal role in the experiment and the emotional bond between them.
- The Launch: A tense, vividly described sequence emphasizing the physical toll and danger of space travel.
- Approach to the Space Station: Margaret admires the station’s design and contemplates humanity’s potential, reinforcing her drive for exploration and innovation.
- Docking: The scene ends with Margaret’s sense of belonging and anticipation for the work ahead.
Scene Outcome:
The scene establishes Margaret’s dedication to her work, her relationship with Athena, and her mixed feelings about leaving her family behind. It sets the tone for the story’s themes of ambition, discovery, and the personal sacrifices tied to progress.
