Competition by Dimension X

Summary

Relic Radio Sci-Fi: Episode Summary – "Competition" by Dimension X

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Introduction

In the July 28, 2025 release of Relic Radio Sci-Fi, listeners are transported back to the golden age of radio with the enthralling episode titled "Competition," originally aired on Dimension X. Hosted by RelicRadio.com, this episode encapsulates the essence of classic science fiction, weaving a tale of interstellar intrigue, corporate espionage, and personal resilience. This detailed summary delves into the key elements of the episode, highlighting significant plot points, character dynamics, and memorable dialogues to provide a comprehensive overview for both longtime fans and newcomers alike.

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Setting the Scene

The story unfolds aboard an immigration spaceship en route to the Ridgestar quadrant, a cluster of stars situated 200 light years from Earth. Passengers, including men, women, and children, are depicted as hopeful immigrants seeking new beginnings on distant worlds. Anne Travis, a young woman recently bereaved by the loss of her parents, is determined to reunite with her son, Harry, who resides on Dora 3, one of the promising planets in the Ridgestar system.

Key Quote:

"Can you predict what will come in 100 years? Can you see beyond the known dimensions of time and space into the unknown?"
– Arthur Blord [00:07]

This opening sets the tone for a narrative that explores the uncharted territories of both space and human ambition.

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Main Characters

1. Anne Travis (voiced by Elaine Rost): A resilient young woman grieving her parents' death, embarking on a journey to live with her sister on Dora 3.
2. Arthur Blord (voiced by Les Tremaine): A seemingly amiable crew member with ulterior motives, instrumental in the unfolding conflict.
3. Harry Travis: Anne's son, whose presence on Alca Tree becomes a focal point of her determination.
4. Mr. Blood & Delaney: Antagonists representing the shadowy forces behind the Ridgestar government's manipulative schemes.

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Plot Development

Anne Travis's voyage is characterized by hope and uncertainty. Upon nearing the Ridgestar quadrant, she seeks confirmation of her designated landing planet. However, her expectations are shattered when Captain Braxton announces that all passengers will be landed based on his discretion, disregarding individual preferences.

Conflict Emerges:

Anne confronts Arthur Blord [03:01], expressing disbelief and asserting her right to choose her landing destination:

"You can't just set us down anywhere. I've got to meet my sister."
– Anne Travis [03:01]

Blord, representing the oppressive forces in control, dismisses her concerns, revealing a larger conspiracy to manipulate immigration for profit. He discloses that space travel is monopolized by Earthside corporations, restricting passengers' autonomy and forcing them into predetermined roles and locations.

Escalation:

As Anne defies these directives, Blord orchestrates her abduction [07:16], leading to her imprisonment and the implantation of the "seven day poison"—a lethal device designed to coerce compliance. Throughout her ordeal, Anne grapples with betrayal and the stark reality of her situation, while Blord's true intentions become increasingly sinister.

Climactic Turn:

In a pivotal confrontation [12:13], Blord, now revealed as a mastermind behind the deceit, manipulates the development of a revolutionary space drive, ensuring his dominance in the emerging space race. Anne, leveraging her intelligence and resilience, uncovers the antagonist's schemes, ultimately turning the tables and exposing the corrupt mechanisms at play.

Resolution:

The episode culminates in Anne outsmarting Blord, securing her safety, and ensuring that her original intentions—to reunite with her son—remain intact. The narrative concludes with a hint of future adventures, promising continued exploration of interstellar challenges and personal triumphs.

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Notable Quotes with Timestamps

1. Arthur Blord [00:07]:

   "Can you predict what will come in 100 years? Can you see beyond the known dimensions of time and space into the unknown?"

2. Anne Travis [01:27]:

   "I used to tell Harry's father that if he had any spunk, he'd be out on the ridge stars making a fortune."

3. Arthur Blord [04:29]:

   "But all the improvements in Earthside working conditions in the past 50 years were to prevent wholesale immigration to the rich."

4. Anne Travis [05:43]:

   "You can't travel to another planet."

5. Arthur Blord [08:05]:

   "The seven day poison... It just won't get any off in seven days."

6. Arthur Blord [27:04]:

   "I knew that after the contest there'd be a merger of research. So I merged it before instead."

These quotes encapsulate the episode's exploration of control, resistance, and the ethical dilemmas inherent in space colonization.

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Themes and Insights

"Competition" delves into several enduring themes:

1. Corporate Control vs. Individual Autonomy: The Ridgestar government's manipulation of immigration and space travel underscores the tension between large corporations' interests and individuals' aspirations.

2. Betrayal and Trust: Anne's trust in the immigration process is shattered, highlighting the vulnerability of individuals when faced with systemic deception.

3. Innovation and Ethics in Space Exploration: The competition to develop a new space drive raises questions about the ethical boundaries of scientific advancement and the lengths entities will go to secure technological supremacy.

4. Resilience and Ingenuity: Anne's journey is a testament to personal strength and the capacity to navigate and overcome unforeseen adversities.

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Conclusion

"Competition" by Dimension X is a quintessential Relic Radio Sci-Fi episode that masterfully blends suspense, drama, and thought-provoking themes within the framework of classic science fiction. Through its compelling characters and intricate plot, the episode invites listeners to ponder the complexities of space exploration, the perils of unchecked corporate power, and the enduring human spirit. Whether revisiting the familiar echoes of old-time radio or encountering this narrative for the first time, audiences are sure to find "Competition" both entertaining and intellectually stimulating.

Tune in next week for more adventures through space and time on Relic Radio Sci-Fi!

Transcript

[Anne Travis]

Relic Radio.

[Arthur Blord]

This is Relic Radio. Sci Fi Old time Radio. Science fiction stories from relicradio.com can you predict what will come in 100 years? Can you see beyond the known dimensions of time and space into the unknown? Dimension X. The ridge stars spread 200 light years across space. To the passengers on the immigration spaceship from Earth, they appear to be pinpoints of light in the darkness. The men, women and children slept in their bunks in the tiered dormitories or sat reading the immigration folders that described the worlds of the ridge stars in glowing rosy terms. Anne Travis stood before the vision port and searched for the spot of light which would be her new home.

[Anne Travis]

Oh.

[Arthur Blord]

I don't know what.

[Anne Travis]

You. You can't tell which is which, can you? Well, I asked the steward for mine. There it is. You see that nice bright little star up in the left hand corner? That one? Yes. Al, I'm going to meet my son there. He sent for me. Harry always was a good son. I used to say to my husband just before he died, harry is a good son. I'm going to Dora 3. My sister's there. Oh, isn't that nice? It's a wonderful thing for a young girl like you to start life way out here. I used to tell Harry's father that if he had any spunk, he'd be out on the ridge stars making a fortune. He was assistant buyer at Bloomingdale's kitchenware. I see. Maybe if I asked the person, he could point out. Dori Dor 3. Oh, you go ahead, dear. You paid your fare like everybody else. What did you say your name was? Ann Travis. Well, I'm Lottie Elders, Mrs. Harold E. Elders. Though of course, I don't use Harold's name.

[Arthur Blord]

Now.

[Anne Travis]

Are you all alone? Yes. My folks died last year. That's why I'm coming out to live with my sister. Why, you poor child. Traveling halfway across space with nobody to talk to. There it is. I just know it.

[Arthur Blord]

You are now within the Ridgestar quadrant. The trip is almost over.

[Anne Travis]

Captain Braxton wishes me to inform you.

[Arthur Blord]

That a boat will shortly be taken to determine on which planet of which sun every passenger of this ship will be landed.

[Anne Travis]

What is he talking about?

[Arthur Blord]

He will decide, and all must abide by the decision.

[Anne Travis]

I don't understand. I don't understand. What did he say about a vote? I don't believe him. He said everybody had to go to the same planet, didn't he? But Harry's on alca tree. Look here, Mrs. Elders, they can't get away with this. They can't just set us down anywhere. I've got to meet my sister. But what can we do? I don't know, but I'm going to find out. I'm going to see the captain right now.

[Arthur Blord]

Landing manifest 12436. Cargo holds 1 through 12 at premium rate, including.

[Anne Travis]

I want to see the captain.

[Arthur Blord]

Oh, look. I'm dizzy.

[Anne Travis]

Now, what kind of an outrage is this? I'm going to join my sister on Dory Dora 3, where I bought my ticket for. And that's where I'm going, vote or no vote.

[Arthur Blord]

That's what you think, baby. I'll call you back. Jerry.

[Anne Travis]

I want to see the captain immediately. Do you hear?

[Arthur Blord]

Yeah, sure I hear. Perfect. In both ears.

[Anne Travis]

What's the meaning of this? What are you people trying to get away with?

[Arthur Blord]

We're not trying to. You're in space now, kid. We don't go by Earth's side. Red tape.

[Anne Travis]

But my ticket.

[Arthur Blord]

Oh, you can paste that in the scrapbook. That's all it's worth. Where you're going, kid, fortunes are made and lost every day. The rich stars are wide open, and what the big operators say goes.

[Anne Travis]

But my sister's waiting for me.

[Arthur Blord]

Oh, she'll get tired.

[Anne Travis]

It's a game, kid.

[Arthur Blord]

And you'll rip.

[Anne Travis]

The folder said you were encouraging immigration.

[Arthur Blord]

Oh, sure, sure. But all the improvements in Earthside working conditions in the past 50 years were to prevent wholesale immigration to the rich. That's why we have to cut the prices of tickets below cost and suck you immigrants out here.

[Anne Travis]

Why did you lie? Why won't you take us where we want to go?

[Arthur Blord]

Simple, K. The only way to make a profit is to dump each shipload in one place. This cargo goes to Delphi, too.

[Anne Travis]

But the announcer said there was going to be a boat.

[Arthur Blord]

Oh, sure, but we've got it rigged so Delphi 2 gets it. Simple, isn't it?

[Anne Travis]

But you can.

[Arthur Blord]

Oh, it's not so bad. Delphi. It's okay. We're bombing great world. Especially for a kid like you.

[Anne Travis]

But how would I get to my sister? She's expecting me on doradora3. Can I take another ship?

[Arthur Blord]

Not where you.

[Anne Travis]

What do you mean?

[Arthur Blord]

Look, baby, space travel is an Earthside monopoly. They own the patent on the rocket power that makes space travel possible. Now, the Ridge government offered a prize for a new kind of power that wouldn't infringe on Earth rocket patterns. But until that drive is developed, you just won't get off. No, I do.

[Anne Travis]

You can't travel to another planet.

[Arthur Blord]

That's right. There isn't any public transport. And only a millionaire could afford a private ship. You mean I'm just stuck like a fly on flypaper. Hey, where you going?

[Anne Travis]

Back to my bunk. I want to lie there.

[Arthur Blord]

Oh, wait a minute. I'm afraid you can't leave here till that boat is taken.

[Anne Travis]

Why not?

[Arthur Blord]

Well, I'm a kindly type, friendly fella. I always give a straight story to anybody. But that means I've got to keep them under wraps. So you'll stay right here till we land on Delphi. 2. All immigrants who have not got clear here, please report to the inspector under.

[Anne Travis]

The first letter of their last name. Anne. Anne. Where have you been, child? I looked all over for you. They kept me in the prison garden. Mrs. Elders, what shall we do? I'm sure I don't know, Harry. He's my son, you know. He'll be just friends. Oh, dear, I haven't been cleared yet. You'd better go then. I'll wait for you right here. Be sure you do, dear. I'm so frightened. Oh, which way do I go? The E sign is over there, see? Oh, I don't have my distance glasses. You will wait for me, dear? Yes, right here. Go along now.

[Arthur Blord]

All right, you. Come on.

[Anne Travis]

Who are you?

[Arthur Blord]

Never mind. Come on. Grab her, Al. Come on.

[Anne Travis]

Let go of me. What's the idea?

[Arthur Blord]

Let's go get her.

[Anne Travis]

Who are you? Let go. Let's go.

[Arthur Blord]

We can't take any chances. Al, Put her out. Right.

[Anne Travis]

Oh. Oh.

[Arthur Blord]

Come on up.

[Anne Travis]

What happened?

[Arthur Blord]

Come on, sit up.

[Anne Travis]

What? Who are you? Your face.

[Arthur Blord]

That's a motor driven face dissolver mask.

[Anne Travis]

I've read about them. I've never seen one. Who are you?

[Arthur Blord]

That's why I'm wearing a mask. Cause I don't want you to know.

[Anne Travis]

But they're not your.

[Arthur Blord]

Lady, quit babbling. I hold you in because you're pretty and intelligent looking.

[Anne Travis]

But why?

[Arthur Blord]

You're gonna make a thousand stellars for yourself whether you like it or not. Stop looking like a scared rabbit.

[Anne Travis]

You can't do this. I'll call the police.

[Arthur Blord]

The police? What do you know about the rich star government? Obviously, right here things are different. Now listen. You go to the New Style Hotel as soon as you've registered. You go to the Fair Play Employment Agency. They'll take care of you. Now take this. It's a tape reel. Play it back in your room. It'll tell you what to do after it's played once, it'll destroy itself. Is that clear?

[Anne Travis]

I don't understand this at all.

[Arthur Blord]

Have you ever heard of the seven day poison?

[Anne Travis]

I don't think so.

[Arthur Blord]

It's an interesting device. It feeds on the blood. On the seventh day, undergoes a chemical change and very easy to use. You just inject it like this? Yeah. It's all over for seven days. The beauty of this poison is it can be made to look like a knock pattern in many thousands of small variations. The only antidote must be some of the original poison at its base. And I have that. I don't get hysterical. I'll keep the antidote here. You can get it after you've done what I want.

[Anne Travis]

But I don't know where I am. I. I don't know who you are. But if something happens to you, that's your problem.

[Arthur Blord]

But remember, the police can't help you. I have the antidote to the poisoning. All right, I'm through with her. Take her out and drop her to hotel. Is this room 2635?

[Anne Travis]

Yes.

[Arthur Blord]

And Travis?

[Anne Travis]

Yes? Who is this?

[Arthur Blord]

Play that tape reel and get started. We'll be watching you.

[Anne Travis]

Hello? Hello?

[Arthur Blord]

Hotel near Sold. Ask.

[Anne Travis]

Can I help you? I was cut off. Someone was speaking to me.

[Arthur Blord]

I'm sorry. There was no incoming call on your line. Can I help you?

[Anne Travis]

No, no, never mind. Better play that tape. Guess. You push this button.

[Arthur Blord]

You will find in your purse a full cigarette case. Half of the cigarettes are doped. Tomorrow you will be hired as private secretary to Artur Blord. When you're alone with him, you will give him one of the cigarettes. The case ejects two at a time. The outer one is doped. When he's unconscious, push the brown knob on the case. That will call my men and they will come for you. You must come with them if you wish. The antidote to the poison. After that, you'll be transported to any Ridge Star you wish. As soon as you play this reel, go to the Fair Play Employment Agency. There's no time to waste. Tomorrow the seven day poison will have only six days to go. Now that the reel is finished, it will destroy itself.

[Anne Travis]

Why do they have to pick me? Oh, the real. Come on, Travis. He's got Heaven bait.

[Arthur Blord]

Come in, Ms. Travers. Well, well, everything seems in order. I must verify one thing.

[Anne Travis]

Yes?

[Arthur Blord]

You did arrive just yesterday on that immigrant ship from Earth.

[Anne Travis]

Oh, yes, sir.

[Arthur Blord]

And this is your first job, not only on Delphi, but on any planet other than hers.

[Anne Travis]

Yes, sir, that's right.

[Arthur Blord]

We'll check that, of course. In the meantime, we can go up to see Mr. Blaut. You'll be his private secretary. As we please.

[Anne Travis]

Did you say.

[Arthur Blord]

Did I say what?

[Anne Travis]

Never mind. Nothing.

[Arthur Blord]

Have you heard of Opera blond before?

[Anne Travis]

Not exactly.

[Arthur Blord]

You would if you'd been in the register longer. Amazing man. Amazing. We wait here for the elevator.

[Anne Travis]

He must be very important.

[Arthur Blord]

Important? There are names out here that they've never heard of back on Earth. And the greatest name is Artur Blord.

[Anne Travis]

Really?

[Arthur Blord]

In less than 10 years, he's made himself an astronomical fortune. Astronomy. Here we are. After you. Penthouse.

[Anne Travis]

What's he like?

[Arthur Blord]

You'll see. Very dynamic. Sharp. He outsmarts the big shots, the planetary operators. They exploit whole worlds. He exploits them. They hate him. The Ridge Star operators. Well, here we are. Come along, Ms. Travis. Mr. Blood is waiting for you. Mr. Blood, this is Ann Travis. Her record and references. Not interested. You check them. Marson, get out. Yes, Mr. Blood. Ready, Ms. Travis?

[Anne Travis]

Yes, Mr. Blood.

[Arthur Blord]

Take this dictation. Chromium field on transom four. Value 100 billion stellars. Just plain slogging. Let somebody else do it. Trona 7 forest. All treasure wood. Priceless. Dennis Carey, operator. Hard, cruel, brilliant. Should be interesting. Travis, you're new to deli too, aren't you?

[Anne Travis]

Yes, Mr. Blythe.

[Arthur Blord]

I like new cities, new planets. They're soulless. They have no culture, no institutions with hardening of the arteries. Now, I came out here as a wiper in an Earthside liner and jumped ship at transition four. That was 10 years ago. You couldn't do that on an old world. Earth side they developed the science. Out here we use it. The great developments today aren't in science. You don't believe that, do you?

[Anne Travis]

I. I'm not sure, sir. Will there be any more dictation, Mr. Brewers?

[Arthur Blord]

No, that's all. Don't leave yet. Mind if I smoke?

[Anne Travis]

No, no.

[Arthur Blord]

Like a cigarette?

[Anne Travis]

I.

[Arthur Blord]

Sir, I asked if you'd like a cigarette.

[Anne Travis]

Oh, thank you, but I have my own Earth cigarettes.

[Arthur Blord]

Would you mind letting me have one? They're very rare out here.

[Anne Travis]

Of course.

[Arthur Blord]

That's an interesting case. Eject two at a time.

[Anne Travis]

Here, Mr. Buet. Take one.

[Arthur Blord]

Thank you. Haven't smoked one of these in years. Light, Miss Travis?

[Anne Travis]

Thank you.

[Arthur Blord]

Drop the lighter under the desk. I'll get it. Sit back in your chair. Should be down here. Ms. Travis? Ms. Travis. Hello, Dr. Greg Lord. I've got a girl here I want you to examine. No, she's out cold. Nope. Had her sitting in that wired chair and I just threw the switch. There's something phony about her from the beginning. The pickup needle from her chair was Jumping like a kangaroo. And when I mentioned cigarettes, it practically blew a fuse. That's what I want to find out. Why she should be carrying doped cigarettes. I want her examined. The full hypnotism treatment if necessary. I want to find out who sent her. I want to know who's gunning for me. There you are. Blood. That's the best I can do, short of a full length narcoanalysis. You sure about that seven day poison? Absolutely. She's got less than six days and she was right off the immigrant ship. This is the first time I've had a plant. Somebody found out I hire him fresh from Earth. I've got her memory track on that face dissolver mask. It was Delaney. I thought so, but he isn't working alone. It's that gang working for the prize on the new space drive. I got into the competition two weeks ago. And I guess they're afraid of losing the money they've put into research. What about this kid? She's got six days to live. And I wouldn't take any bets that they try to save her if she doesn't deliver the goods. They wouldn't even save her if she did. Delaney wouldn't want witnesses. Doc, set everything up the way it was before she went under. What are you going to do? I'm going to let them take me. Wait a minute. They're liable. I know what they're liable to do. Doc, you take care of the girl and leave the rest to me. Okay. It's your funeral. Maybe. Now let's revive Ms. Travis. You set up the projectors. Come on, hop to. All set. Now, when you reverse the field, she'll come to and she won't even know anything happened. Do you remember exactly what you were doing when you knocked her out? Sure. I was looking for the lighter under the table for that doped cigarette of hers. Well, I'll be going. Good luck, Artur. You'll need it. I'll be seeing you, doc. All right, Ms. Travis. Now let's take up where we left off.

[Anne Travis]

I felt faint for a minute. Did you find the lighter, Mr. Blow?

[Arthur Blord]

Yes, yes, thank you. I haven't had a good drag on an Earth cigarette in years. It's I. Stronger than I.

[Anne Travis]

I've got to call those men. Now, let's see the brown knob on the case. I didn't want to hurt him, but what can I do? What can I do?

[Arthur Blord]

How's Blue, Al? I'd like a light. This thing sure fixed them.

[Anne Travis]

Where are we going?

[Arthur Blord]

Are you okay? Tell her six Days it won't matter. The voice give orders. What's the deafen? These two are dead. Duck.

[Anne Travis]

What do you mean?

[Arthur Blord]

You think the boss will give you that antidote?

[Anne Travis]

He promised.

[Arthur Blord]

How he promised. Did he really? But did he give his scouts honor? You know, spit twice and cross his heart?

[Anne Travis]

Stop it. What will happen to him?

[Arthur Blord]

Aboard. You got me. Last three guys I brought over here ended up in the disposal unit.

[Anne Travis]

You mean they'll kill him?

[Arthur Blord]

Wouldn't be surprised.

[Anne Travis]

No, no, they couldn't.

[Arthur Blord]

They don't play for marbles out here in the rich stars. But the police, it's just like Earthside, Sister. Police take their cut and arrest a couple of bindle stips every night to make it look good. Lord was playing around with some pretty fake men. He knew what he was getting into.

[Anne Travis]

I didn't think they'd kill him. I don't know anything about the Ridged Star.

[Arthur Blord]

Oh, that's tough, lady. Real talk at the beam. We're here. All right, fasten your straps. I'm taking her down.

[Anne Travis]

Where are we going?

[Arthur Blord]

You're on Delphi 1.

[Anne Travis]

What is this place?

[Arthur Blord]

A private escape. Very private. How? You cover with Blore. Now she's happy. All right, we stop here. I gotta spring the voice lock combination. One three. Alibi, Peter Uranium. Repeat. Repeat. These things never work. One three. Alibi, Peter Uranium. All right, drag him in. Now, where do you want him, boss? Clamp him in the chair. Give me your hand, will you? Yeah. All right, get his feet straight. Now throw the clamps. Inject the key stimulant. Right, Boss. Air up his sleeve, Al. All set, boss. Do we have to keep on the masks? I got a cold. I think we can do without them. Shut off the power. There we are. He's coming too. Well, Delaney, what am I doing here? I think we can get down to business, blood. We represent 90 companies. We've entered the Ridge government contest to develop a space drive that won't infringe on Earthside patents. Oh, well, Delaney, I've got news for you. Unless one of you has a power drive that's 25% faster than an Earthside rocket, you're licked. What do you mean? He must know. Delaney, you squired. Can't you see he's trying to get us arguing? When I heard some of the low speed you boys were using. All right, you have the floor. Delaney, Two weeks ago you entered the contest. We know your reputation. You can't afford a failure. Your whole financial structure is a bluff. We know you have the drive. Lord. You Better save time. Tell us now, what does your space drive run on? Twisted rubber band. You'll force us to extremes, Blord. All right, take that girl out of here.

[Anne Travis]

No. Now. Let go of me. You can't kill him. I didn't know. You tricked me into getting in here.

[Arthur Blord]

Get out. Come on, sister.

[Anne Travis]

Let's go.

[Arthur Blord]

Oh, all right. So you want to play rough? Okay. That's 23. You owe me your Dale cut. I trust your Dale. She's coming, too, Earl. That's nice. Dale. From the top.

[Anne Travis]

Did they kill him?

[Arthur Blord]

Who knows what the top card. No. Neither do I.

[Anne Travis]

Where is he?

[Arthur Blord]

In there.

[Anne Travis]

They'll let him go, won't they? They've got to. I didn't realize they'd kill him.

[Arthur Blord]

Well, thank you. Just the card I wanted. I pledge you, I'm sure.

[Anne Travis]

Look, you've got to tell me. Are they going to kill Mr. Bloor?

[Arthur Blord]

Look, lady. A, you are interrupting a very important card game. B, you're better off if they do kill Blord. Let's face it, kiddo, you crimp them good.

[Anne Travis]

Crimped him.

[Arthur Blord]

You think he's going to like you for doping them and getting them into this mess? Boyd's a tough guy. When he first come out to the ridge, he killed three men in the mining camp over on Tranche. When they double crossed him. Sure. If he ever gets out of this. I wouldn't bet a lead slugger. And your life. I go with 10, please. Tough luck, Sonny. I got three and double for spades. Yep. If Blood gets loose, I wouldn't want to be in your place.

[Anne Travis]

But I. I didn't understand. They tricked me.

[Arthur Blord]

I don't think Lord will sympathize. Feel a cud, will you? You're a crawling rat. I'm a realist. Delaney.

[Anne Travis]

He's alive.

[Arthur Blord]

You got me. So I'll make a deal. Now, look. We form a joint stock company. Each of you signs over his patent rights to the new firm and we split the shares. You hear that? You get my space drive, I get 25%. Delaney runs the new company. The whole deal to be publicized? If you wish. Lord, when this gets out, it'll ruin you. They'll despise you when they find out how much dirt you've eaten. Well, I didn't have much choice, did I? All right, now the other part of the deal. You got me here through a certain young lady. Now we can dispose of her. No, No, I think I'd like to do that. I'll take her as part of my 25%. Any objections, Delaney? No. Just be careful. Get rid of a clean. We don't want any mess left around for the Ridge government to find.

[Anne Travis]

What are you going to do with me? You promised.

[Arthur Blord]

Did I? Get rid of her blow and only make it clean. You can loosen your strap now. We're on automatic.

[Anne Travis]

Where are we going?

[Arthur Blord]

Back to Delphi 2.

[Anne Travis]

I didn't understand what they were going to do.

[Arthur Blord]

I know.

[Anne Travis]

I didn't realize.

[Arthur Blord]

I'm sure you didn't, Ms. Travis.

[Anne Travis]

What are you going to do?

[Arthur Blord]

I'm going to play you off.

[Anne Travis]

Let go of my arm. Let go of me.

[Arthur Blord]

Shut up. What are you screaming about? Now hold still. It won't take a second. Just one small injection.

[Anne Travis]

No, don't. Let me go. Please.

[Arthur Blord]

Stop.

[Anne Travis]

There.

[Arthur Blord]

Scratched my face like a cat.

[Anne Travis]

Will it take long?

[Arthur Blord]

What?

[Anne Travis]

For me to die?

[Arthur Blord]

For you to.

[Anne Travis]

Stop it? Please. Please stop it.

[Arthur Blord]

But it's funny. It's very funny. That was the antidote.

[Anne Travis]

The antidote?

[Arthur Blord]

The seven day poison Delaney gave you. I got it from him before we left. Young lady. I knocked you out in my office and had your mind examined. I knew just what you had done. I came here because I wanted to.

[Anne Travis]

You mean you're not angry with me?

[Arthur Blord]

Certainly not. Besides, everything turned out my way.

[Anne Travis]

Your way? But they forced you to give them the drive. You signed away the right.

[Arthur Blord]

I'm a percentage man. Let them do the operating. Besides, it was their drive in the first place.

[Anne Travis]

Their drive?

[Arthur Blord]

Yes, it's simple. I knew that after the contest there'd be a merger of research. So I merged it before instead. Wait till they discover they signed away their own patent. Right. I don't think they'll feel like laughing then.

[Anne Travis]

But to give Delaney control of the new company.

[Arthur Blord]

Well, don't you see? I had to get him to go along. He had the antidote to your poison.

[Anne Travis]

What about me?

[Arthur Blord]

Now look at the vision port. Now turn up the scale. That's the Ridge. You can have your pick. Name your world and I'll take you there. You said your sister was on Doradora 3?

[Anne Travis]

Yes, but.

[Arthur Blord]

But what?

[Anne Travis]

I wonder if the opportunities for advancement aren't greater on your planet, Mr. Blower.

[Arthur Blord]

You know, Ms. Travis, I wouldn't be a bit surprised if they were. How would you like to live in a world no larger than a single gigantic rocket ship? You'll find out more about it next week on Demand. Today Galactamax's transcribed Competition Adapted for radio by Ernest Kanhoy from A story by E.M. hull. Featured in the cast were Elaine Rost as Anne and Les Tremaine as Arthur Blord. Your host was Norman Rose. Music by Bert Berman, engineer Bill Chambers. Dimension X is produced by William Welch and directed by Edward King.