The Variable Man

Gradually, the glowing orb that was his own body faded. The impenetrable chaos of night descended. He allowed the tide to sweep over him, to extinguish the searing fire.

grunted in agony as searing fire crackled about him, a blazing inferno that gnawed and ate hungrily through his screen.

Cole stood frozen, utterly transfixed

For a brief moment he halted to get his breath and figure where he was. It was almost evening

Everyone was busy putting out the fires and pulling the wounded to safety

I’d rather not bother the workmen right now, Commissioner. T

To the right the grass and sand rose up to form immense peaks, a range of mountains without end, disappearing finally into the distance. The Urals.

He peered down into its interior, his face rapt and intent.

“I see. A man from two centuries ago.” The big Pole frowned. “And with a radically different Weltanschauung. No connection with our present society. Not integrated along our lines at all. Therefore the SRB machines are perplexed.”

Some ants ran over his outstretched hand. Gradually, the immense black cloud was beginning to drift away, dispersing into a formless blob.
The cart was gone. The thought lashed against him, pounding at his brain, mixing with his labored pulse-beat.