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ship-automation-failure
Pham’s security overrides and the inherent instability of the OOB’s Bottom automation cause cascading system failures and dangerous malfunctions.
1 chapter across 1 book
A Fire Upon the Deep (2002)Vernor Vinge
Chapter 43
The chapter details the tense and deteriorating conditions aboard the starship OOB as it approaches Tines’ World, highlighting the strained relationships and mistrust among the crew, especially between Pham and Blueshell. Pham’s attempts to secure the ship’s automation through risky overrides lead to system failures, culminating in a dangerous fire in the ship’s workshop. Meanwhile, Ravna struggles with despair and hope as she cares for Greenstalk, who shows signs of recovery despite previous trauma and possible infection by the Blight.