Doctor

"Doctor" by Murray Leinster is a science fiction story about humankind facing dangerous challenges in space. Onboard the Star Queen interplanetary liner, Dr. Nordenfeld must confront a potential outbreak of chlorophage, a virus that previously devastated the planet Kamerun. The source of the infection might be a mysterious young girl, Kathy Brand, who boarded the spacecraft. As the physician investigates if she is carrying the virus, he must wrestle with the need to protect the healthy passengers while wrestling with a moral responsibility towards the young girl. His investigation leads to the discovery of a potential solution in the form of a symbiotic microorganism that could be the key to neutralizing the chlorophage. His actions showcase themes of peril, accountability, and selflessness as he attempts to save those on the "Star Queen" from impending doom, forcing him to fight against a ticking clock and the unknown horrors of alien botany.