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gradually inched toward the far edge of the balcony
to get a better look at what lay before me. The city extended, in all
directions, as far as I could see. Then I noticed thousands of small, shining,
insect-like aircraft floating, flying and darting everywhere. Sometimes they
would slow and enter through glowing portals or spots on the sides of the
buildings and structures.
I must
have stood there, rigid and completely absorbed by the sight, for many, many
minutes. Then suddenly I felt very tired, and despite the hypnotic, entrancing
view, I wanted to leave. I turned around and as if "they" had read my
thoughts, the wall glowed at the end of the metallic corridor and again the
cylinder was waiting for me. I slowly walked back down the corridor, trying
desperately to collect my thoughts. I was afraid to turn around, afraid I would
be tempted to
rush back and gaze again at the tantalizing city.
I left
the same way I came - the long trip in the enclosed cylinder, the
weightlessness, out the side of the ravine and the long walk through the still
dark woods. My head was spinning, and I was confused and bewildered about what
I had seen. I have gone back many times now and each time my amazement and
interest grow. I have gazed upon the city for many hours, yet each time my
fascination increases. I have tried to break through the transparent walls of
the balcony with all manner of drills and torches, but nothing avails: they
seem to be indestructible! But still I try. Each day my life centers more and
more upon the city. I have told no one but a few of my friends.
Yes, I
am a man obsessed, the vision of the city has captivated my whole life. I must
find an answer and I must find it soon. Or I know I shall die gazing out over
the balcony into that incredibly dazzling hypnotic city, unmourned and unmissed
by my friends of the surface world!"
...Even
more recently Victor Pence, editor of