Skid Row Pilot

"Skid Row Pilot" by Randall Garrett is a science fiction story set in a world of space travel and Martian colonies, centering around space pilot Ted Kendall's sudden downfall. After a mysterious malfunction makes him unfit to fly, he is confronted with a tough decision—either accept a shady job from a scheming merchant that involves piloting a hijacking or remain grounded on Mars. As Kendall navigates his dilemma, he uncovers a conspiracy involving a device that affected his senses, and decides to fight back, turning the tables on his manipulator to get back his life and reclaim his name. The story unfolds with suspense and action, portraying themes of perseverance, morality, and the challenges of life among the stars.