Missing Link

"Missing Link" is a science fiction story by Frank Herbert set on the planet Gienah III. The protagonist, Lewis Orne, works as a junior I-A field man and is assigned to investigate the mysterious disappearance of a ship. However, he quickly realizes that the native inhabitants of Gienah III are causing significant challenges and obstacles for him. As Orne delves deeper into the investigation, he uncovers unexpected secrets and dangers that go beyond a simple missing ship. The story originally appeared in "Astounding Science Fiction" during the Golden Age of Science Fiction.