Invaders from the Infinite · Chapter
II: Canine People explained
Arcot, Morey, Wade, and Fuller demonstrate a new ray shield designed to protect against molecular rays used by space pirates.
What happens
Arcot, Morey, Wade, and Fuller demonstrate a new ray shield designed to protect against molecular rays used by space pirates. Three tall, dog-like aliens from another world land on the roof of Arcot's building. After initial telepathic communication difficulties, they use headsets to establish rapport and reveal they are from a race artificially created by the Ancient Masters from canines. They have come seeking help against the Invaders, having traveled three months across the galaxy.
Themes in this chapter
Technological Progress and Its Consequences
The new ray shield represents a technological solution to the threat of molecular rays used by pirates, highlighting both the benefits and dangers of advanced weaponry.
Exploration and the Unknown
The arrival of the Ortolians from across the galaxy underscores the theme of encountering the unknown and the need for cooperation.
Unity Against a Common Enemy
The Ortolians seek Earth's help against the Invaders, setting up a potential alliance against a shared threat.
Characters to notice
- Arcot
Demonstrates the new ray shield; communicates telepathically with the Ortolian visitors; agrees to help them.
- Morey
Assists Arcot in the ray shield demonstration; notes the dog-like features of the visitors.
- Wade
Helps Arcot into the ray shield suit; comments on the visitors' trustworthiness.
- Fuller
Official designer for A.A.L.; tests the molecular ray pistol on Arcot's shield.
- Zezdon Fentes
First Student of Thought; leader of the Ortolian delegation; explains their mission.
- Zezdon Afthen
Zezdon of Physics; one of the three Ortolian visitors.
- Zezdon Inthel
Zezdon of Chemistry; one of the three Ortolian visitors.
Key passages
“Ahy wizz tahk. Vokle kohds ron. Tahk by breen.”
I wish to talk. Vocal cords are wrong. Talk by brain.
The Ortolian struggles to speak English, then switches to telepathic communication.
“Our race has arisen, as you have so surely determined from the race you call canines. It was artificially produced by the Ancient Masters when their hour of need had come.”
Our species was created by the Ancient Masters from dogs, just as you guessed.
Zezdon Fentes confirms that the Ortolians are descended from canines, created by an ancient civilization.