The Dragon Slayers

"The Dragon Slayers" by Frank Banta is a science fiction story published in the early 1960s. The narrative unfolds in a futuristic setting on Venus, focusing on the humorous and adventurous struggles of a couple, Pole and Bliss Kenton, who are engaged in the peculiar occupation of harvesting pretzins in the Venusian jungle. The story touches on themes of survival and resourcefulness, as the characters contend with the dangers of the exotic environment, including snakes and a fearsome dragon. In this whimsical tale, the Kentons face constant challenges, notably a menacing dragon that threatens their modest home and livelihood. The plot follows a comedic sequence of events as they navigate personal dilemmas and unexpected dangers, all while adhering to the absurd guidelines established by their superiors. When Bliss falls victim to a vacuum snake, and their cabin is burned down by the dragon, they find assistance from their Division Chief, Carl Wattles, delivering them a fumigation bomb designed for far smaller reptiles. Ultimately, in a twist of fate, the couple uses the bomb against the dragon in a daring and resourceful act, resulting in remarkable consequences that leave them with an unexpected new home, showcasing the blend of humor, creativity, and cleverness in their resourceful response to danger.