Artificial Agent

a novel by Isaac Bailey

Summary of Act One, Scene Two:

A Call from Space

Scene Overview:

Margaret Lee, now aboard the space station, settles into her cramped living quarters and reflects on the stark realities of station life. Her surroundings, including the utilitarian cabin and the inconveniences of zero-gravity living, underscore the sacrifices made for her groundbreaking work. Seeking connection, Margaret calls her husband, John, and they discuss both personal and professional matters, hinting at the strain her work places on their family dynamic. The conversation grows heavier when David, their son, reluctantly joins the call, revealing his frustrations with his mother’s absence. After the call, Margaret reflects on her family, shedding a tear before moving to join her team in the galley.

Key Events:

  1. Life Aboard the Station: Margaret adjusts to the challenges of space living, including limited laundry facilities, strange-tasting water, and the quirks of zero-gravity hygiene. Her personal connection to her tiny porthole highlights her need for moments of beauty and contemplation.
  2. Video Call with John: The call balances lighthearted banter and deeper emotional currents. John expresses concern about Margaret’s safety and the emotional toll her absence takes on their son, David.
  3. David’s Reluctance: David is introduced as a sullen teenager struggling with his mother’s absences. His one-word responses and internal frustration contrast with Margaret’s attempts to connect.
  4. Margaret’s Emotional Response: After the call, Margaret sheds a tear, reflecting on her family’s struggles and the sacrifices required by her work.
  5. Team Interaction in the Galley: Margaret joins her team in the galley, where lighthearted banter provides a sense of camaraderie and levity. The scene introduces Garrett’s arrogance and brilliance, Jennifer’s practicality, and Roy’s pragmatic humor, deepening the dynamics of the group.

Key Characters Introduced/Expanded:

  1. John Lee: Margaret’s husband, a professor with a warm and supportive nature. He struggles with Margaret’s absences but remains her steadfast supporter.
  2. David Lee: Margaret and John’s teenage son, who resents his mother’s absence and feels emotionally disconnected.
  3. Garrett: A brilliant but insufferable team member, whose arrogance and selfishness stand in stark contrast to Margaret’s leadership.
  4. Jennifer: A practical and sharp-witted team member who balances Garrett’s arrogance with her grounded personality.
  5. Roy: The oldest member of the team, whose humor and practicality provide balance and wisdom.

Scene Outcome:

The scene highlights the tension between Margaret’s personal and professional lives. Her call with John and David reveals the emotional cost of her work, while her interactions in the galley showcase the dynamics of her team. These contrasts set the stage for future conflicts, particularly as the focus shifts toward Garrett’s role and the looming experiment.