No-Risk Planet

"No-Risk Planet" by Stephen Marlowe is a science fiction story about Sammy Trumple, an insurance salesman who ventures to Halcyon, a world where war is constant, but death is viewed as a transition to a new life. The story follows Sammy’s humorous and challenging attempts to introduce life insurance to the Halcyonians, who embrace reincarnation and do not fear passing away. As Sammy navigates this foreign world, he confronts a culture that lacks the financial concept of insurance and finds himself at odds with their beliefs. The tale reaches a climax when Sammy’s efforts lead to his arrest for challenging Halcyonian views, which in turn causes him to realize the futility of his mission. Ultimately, he shifts his career goals entirely and makes a bold move into munitions, pairing up with an associate.