In the Earth's Shadow

by John L. Chapman

"Never mind. Just fill the container again. I want to be sure the tank is empty."

Ferris set to work again. As he bent over the tanks, the floor gave a sudden lurch and threw him against the wall. Siegal clutched a door frame and steadied himself.

"No tricks, Ferris."

"But the station's moving. Can't you see?"

"Sooner than you expected. Perhaps you can tell me why."

"I don't know, Siegal. Something's happened."

"It's all right, finish your work."

Ferris complied. Once more the precious liquid trickled into the container. Minutes passed.

"Brooks reporting, sir."

Siegal turned, astounded. The red-headed youngster stood there, a look of bewilderment on his face. Then Ferris leaped, caught Siegal about the hips and sent him sprawling over the station floor. But the convict was elusive. He twisted free, somewhat dazed, and stood erect. He fired a beam at Ferris, who rolled across the floor in pain. Brooks, realization having dawned upon him, started forward. Siegal emitted a shrill noise, grabbed the container and ran for the airlock. Brooks blocked his way, and went down as the gun struck his skull. Siegal leaped over him, vanishing a moment later beyond the airlock.