Philip K. Dick 
The Defenders 

From the visionary mind of Philip K. Dick, The Defenders tells the story of a war-ravaged world, where humans have been forced to retreat miles underground, leaving robots called ‘leadys’ to continue the deadly battle on the devastated surface— a battlefield marked by lethal radiation and advanced weaponry.

At the heart of the story is Taylor, an American war planner assigned to witness the interrogation of a leady and unravel the truth about the very nature of the war that has engulfed the planet. Surprises are in store as Taylor and his team venture onto the surface, discovering a reality entirely different from what they were led to believe. Faced with a radical rethinking of humanity’s greatest conflict, they find themselves reliant on the very machines they fought against for their survival.

The Defenders dares to explore both the destructive powers of war and the potential for unity in the face of adversity. This gripping short story showcases Philip K. Dick’s exceptional craftsmanship and unyielding creativity, offering a unique journey into the depths of human potential and the transcendent power of cooperation. Immerse yourself in the visionary world of The Defenders, the compelling work of science fiction whose timely message will captivate your imagination and challenge your perspectives on war, society, and what it means to be human.