The narrative unfolds in a world gripped by terror as a mysterious entity known as the "Black Horror" wreaks havoc across the globe, leading to widespread panic and chaos. The story begins with a newspaper editor receiving urgent reports about the Horror's attacks in various cities, including London, where the situation has escalated to martial law. Amidst the turmoil, a reporter, Henry Woods, is dispatched to interview Dr. Silas White, a scientist who claims to have insights into the nature of the Horror. Dr. White reveals his hypothesis that the Horror may be a fourth-dimensional entity invading the third dimension, feeding on humanity. He proposes a radical solution: to send men into the fourth dimension to confront the Horror. After demonstrating a machine capable of warping beings into the fourth dimension, Dr. White prepares a group of ninety-eight men, including Woods, to embark on this perilous mission. As the men step into the machine, they are transformed into fourth-dimensional beings, merging their consciousness into a single entity named Mal Shaff. This new form possesses immense strength and a primal instinct to fight. Mal Shaff soon encounters Ouglat, a monstrous being from the fourth dimension, who is revealed to be the source of the Horror's attacks on Earth. A fierce battle ensues between Mal Shaff and Ouglat, showcasing their immense power and the stakes of their conflict. As the fight progresses, Mal Shaff realizes that Ouglat is drawing strength from his minions in the third dimension, who are returning to him. In a climactic moment, Mal Shaff overcomes Ouglat, defeating him and ending the threat of the Horror. Meanwhile, back in the third dimension, Dr. White and a group of reporters anxiously await news of the battle. The editor of the newspaper is busy preparing the world for the outcome of the conflict, hoping for a victory that will restore order. As the battle concludes, Mal Shaff embraces his new identity and the memories of his past, leaving behind the chaos of the third dimension. The story concludes with the editor receiving news of Dr. White's tragic suicide, juxtaposed against the victory over the Horror, highlighting the complex interplay of heroism, sacrifice, and the unknown consequences of venturing into dimensions beyond human comprehension. The narrative explores themes of evolution, the nature of existence, and the struggle against incomprehensible forces, ultimately leaving readers to ponder the implications of humanity's place in the cosmos.
By Clifford D. Simak · First published 1968 · Genre: Science Fiction, Horror, Fantasy