The Game of Rat and Dragon  (Paperback, CORDWAINER SMITH)

The story is set in a future where humanity has colonized other planets and faces a deadly threat during space travel known as "dragons." These dragons are invisible creatures that attack spaceships in a flash, causing catastrophic damage and death to the crew. To combat these creatures, human pilots are paired with telepathic cats called "underpeople," who can sense the dragons and fight them using mental powers. The protagonist of the story is a pilot named Joanie, who is assigned to work with a cat named Mr. Grey. Together, they embark on a mission to protect a spaceship from the dragons. As they face the deadly threat, Joanie and Mr. Grey must rely on their telepathic bond and quick reflexes to outmaneuver the dragons and save the crew. "The Game of Rat and Dragon" is celebrated for its imaginative premise, gripping action, and emotional depth. It explores themes of teamwork, trust, and the bond between humans and animals. Cordwainer Smith's prose is characterized by its lyrical style and vivid descriptions, creating a rich and immersive reading experience.