Stories, poems and art reprinted from the classic Planet Magazine back issues (1994–2004).
Originally published in Planet Magazine No. 40 (December 2003). Illustration: “Warrioress” by Romeo Esparrago "Do you rememberthe yearwe fought the revenant godson Syrtis Major IV?"The old man's infrascanleaked a dripa tricklea single dropdown his lined cheek,passing overthe ancient marks of plasta-sculp.He tilted back the steinand glugged.His after-smackwas plaintive."Those days, they were the ghosts."He turned to … Continue reading Memory Lane, by Nancy Wilcox
Originally published in Planet Magazine No. 40 (December 2003). Illustration: “Ibex 239” by Zackary Lowing "I want to see a copy of this book," Villsomo the general barked into the field receiver on his Mechano Boot-Suit. "If it has his work in it I want to see it and take down every detail. I can … Continue reading Battle Book, by Neil Burlington
Originally published in Planet Magazine No. 40 (December 2003). The following is an excerpt from William Alan Rieser's new book, "Nadir": Chapter 1: A Surprising QuestBy William Alan Rieser Ancient Prail who prided they knewAll of mystery and puzzles askewAdmit one omission in the halls of heirsAnd taxed poor Langford to make it theirs Langford … Continue reading Excerpt from “Nadir”, by William Alan Rieser
Originally published in Planet Magazine No. 40 (December 2003). (From the continuing Langford Joh Saga) Illustration: “Ice Spider” by Zackary Lowing "Iron Feather!" said Langford Joh in a disturbed mood as he demanded his son's attention. "I want you to read this sensor log I am sending you. When you are finished and completely understand … Continue reading Just In Case, by William Alan Rieser
Originally published in Planet Magazine No. 40 (December 2003). Illustration: “The Archetypal Mosaic” by Ehrad The scream splashed across my mind like clear mountain water. Distant. Cold. Sweet. I could sense the subsonic undertones of the attack striving desperately to gain a foothold in and shred my sanity. Fear. Terror. Excitement. Distant. Unreal. With all … Continue reading Monster, by Michael Hanson
Originally published in Planet Magazine No. 40 (December 2003). Illustration: “Penumbra” by Andy McCann I was launched a long time ago. I was not intelligent then. Some of the contacts I encountered on my travels have been helpful, especially the non-biological civilizations. They showed me how to update my components, alone. I was able to … Continue reading Monument, by Tony Thorne
Originally published in Planet Magazine No. 40 (December 2003). Debbie blew her whistle and stopped the practice game. "Don't shoot every time, Tara, just pass the damn ball," she scolded. Tara's face welled up with tears, "Sorry, coach, I thought I'd make the shot." "We're a team, Tara. A lot of times you do make … Continue reading The No Name Abduction, by William W. Brownson
Originally published in Planet Magazine No. 40 (December 2003). Illustration: “Moonless” by Patrick Stacy Although their suburban home was empty except for themselves, Mark and Paula Mansfield spoke in confidential tones. While Mark was telling Paula how rich they would become, she rose to gaze out through partially open drapes on the French doors. "No … Continue reading One Moonless Night, by Joe Vadalma
Originally published in Planet Magazine No. 40 (December 2003). Waves of a turquoise gold bulge flatly, gently upon the surface. The sea is flat, calm, breathing. The expanse is windless. As the sun sets, the sky turns a brilliant saffron-pink that sprinkles the water with particles of sparkling light. The sand sits dull and wet, … Continue reading Until Another Emerges, by Gregory Paul Mineeff
Originally published in Planet Magazine No. 40 (December 2003). (From the continuing Langford Joh Saga) Illustration: “July” by Ray Dangel Langford seldom ate. The fabulous Prail throne sustained his bodily requirements without limit. On those occasions when he did want something to nosh, it was more out of habit than need. After indulging himself, the … Continue reading Three Destinies, by William Alan Rieser
