The Final Figure

"The Final Figure" by Sam Merwin, Jr. is a science fiction story set in a world gripped by military tension, where Angus MacReedy, a uniquely talented model-maker, finds himself at the center of a high-stakes game due to his uncanny ability to create miniature models of future weapons. General Wales, recognizing the potential of MacReedy's gift—especially his model of a top-secret weapon—wrestles with how to use this foresight for national defense. MacReedy navigates the rocky path of duty conflicting with his own freedom and the consequences of holding knowledge that could reshape global conflicts. The narrative builds upon themes where the power of imagination and foresight challenges the fine line between predicting what is to come and actively molding destiny, calling into question if knowing the future inevitably changes its course for everyone.