Proktols of Neptune
By HENRY HASSE
Space-rumor had spun wild tales of horror about
Neptune's almost-legendary race of Proktols. But
what could rumor know of this hideous reality
that faced Space-captain Janus and his captive crew!
[Transcriber's Note: This etext was produced from
Planet Stories Summer 1941.
Extensive research did not uncover any evidence that
the U.S. copyright on this publication was renewed.]
Commander Janus stared in bafflement at the power-board of the Patrol ship Wasp. The Deflector needle was still gyrating wildly. That had begun five minutes ago. His lips tightened, and he looked up irritably as the First Mate peered inquisitively over his shoulder.
"Better check up on the course again, Devries!"
"Just did, sir. We're point oh-oh perfect, not the slightest aberrancy."
Janus swore under his breath. "I just can't figure it! Must be some object dead ahead to cause this disturbance, but why doesn't our Deflector beam shunt it from us or pivot us around it?"