In a sub-space transfer station, Liddell and his wife, Linda, await their first customer. The station exists in a featureless gray void, allowing instantaneous travel between worlds. Their anticipation turns to alarm when they receive a distress signal from Luna, indicating that their first traveler, John Smith, is actually the notorious escaped killer Jason Short. As Short materializes, he takes Linda hostage, forcing Liddell to comply with his demands. Liddell realizes that he must outsmart Short to save Linda. He manipulates the transfer controls to send them to Deneb Twelve, but secretly plots a course that will trap them in sub-space. As Short and Linda shimmer away, Liddell prepares to follow them into the void, determined to rescue his wife. In sub-space, Liddell discovers that the laws of physics behave differently. He can hear and swim through the gray nothingness. He finds Short and Linda, and a struggle ensues. Liddell uses a beam of energy from Short's blaster as a weapon, engaging in a surreal fight where physical laws are suspended. After a fierce battle, Liddell overpowers Short, who becomes unconscious. With Linda safe, Liddell activates the automatic control to return them to normal space. They emerge back at the station, where Liddell secures Short and contacts Luna to report the situation. Reflecting on their harrowing experience, Liddell envisions the potential of sub-space beyond mere travel, suggesting the possibility of resorts in the void. Linda supports his idea, and they share a moment of relief and affection, united after their ordeal.
By Stephen Marlowe · First published 1965 · Genre: Science Fiction, Thriller, Adventure