Authentic Science Fiction Monthly, Issue 45 — page 117: what you’re looking at

Machine-transcribed from the original scan — historical spelling and the odd misread are preserved.

AUTHENTIC SCIENCE FICTION wasn’t available as a destina- tion point. Only a short time afterwards we couldn’t make the simple hop into 4D. Almost a week passed before normalcy returned. I saw Regent Temmlad and every- thing appeared to be satis- factory, except that I was worried, very worried.” “There must have been an instrumental fault,’ Ekrill suggested. “Remotely possible,” Naxos agreed. “‘Remember, I’ve got one of the finest teams from maintenance and you know how efficient our latest model translation units are, and I checked al] myself. No! There must be an evolu- tionary change. If the trouble spreads, many of our peri- meter departments will be trapped. Dimensional travel may, without warning, dis- appear completely and whole galaxies will be-cut off one from another.” The Chief rubbed his chin as he poured out more drinks. He sipped, appreciatively, from his goblet. Placing it back carefully on the desk he gazed at it as though it might be an ancient crystal ball which would show, in picture form, that which he sought... a right decision. He spoke to his colleague: “‘I’m glad that 116 you've seen fit to tell me this, Naxos. You'll realise that I’m unable to do much about the matter at present, but I[’ll bear in mind all you’ve told me, and now, it’s very necessary that you make the most of the free time allotted to you. I’m sure that your wife, Kleria, will be anxious to have you to herself for a while. I may have to communicate with you sooner than I’d wish, but be off with you.” “Thanks, Ekrill. Your kind- ness is appreciated. My fare- well.” ““Farewell,’’ echoed Ekrill in the traditional manner. Kleria had everything pre- pared for Naxos, and a greeting which had come down the ages: “‘You’re late, my dear Naxos.” “Yes, Kleria, although Ekrill found me three days early, but you had my special message; I should have told Ekrill too. It was my indecision as to what I should tell 99 rr: eae “The usual report?” ““Not quite.” Naxos re- peated his story, causing Kleria’s beautiful and classical features to appear puzzled, but she was well able to discuss the problem, having been a dimensional physics professor. comicloooks.com