Hethydect is a space techno-thriller that uses the high tech setting of a galactic drug war to examine the psychological toll of law enforcement, the nature of personal obsession, and the devastating cycle of grief and addiction in the lives of those involved.
Trevor’s obsession leads him to feel “indestructible”, resulting in the loss of Janet and other officers. Does his determination to catch Sage justify his reckless actions, or is he simply a dangerous liability?
Detective Mark is the voice of procedure. In a professional sense, does he fail by “allowing” Trevor to transmit against regulations?
The SSP operates with high tech non-lethal weaponry. How does the use of such “clean” technology contrast with the brutal, messy reality of the war’s consequences?
Trevor ends the story taking leave and later asking his superiors to “come get these two”. What does this reveal about his mental state and his ability to continue the fight?
Why is Sage the singular focus of the SSP? Does the narrative imply that eliminating the source is the only way to win the war, or is the focus on one person a misguided obsession?
The Displacer belt allows immediate, instantaneous movement. How does this technology both empower and endanger the police?
Sergeant Moran’s office contrasts with the “tin can” Hethydect stations. How does the interior design reflect the authority and moral distance of the higher ranking officers?
