'Dynasty of One' (2,500 words.)
The throne room was vast, the empty throne itself a golden speck
glowing against the sombre background drapes.
The only James White story published in Science Fantasy, editor
Carnell's answer to Campbell's Unknown and Gold's Beyond.
There was, however, no 'scientific' reason for banishing it from
New Worlds. Tate is the "Emperor of the Dominions of Myra;
the Protectorates, Dependencies, and Mandated Territories of Fomalhaut,
of Cregennsil, and of Dubh; Lord of the Magellanic Hosts . . ."
Well said, oh court psychologist. Remember chamberlain John
Bird's similar spiel in Jabberwocky? Extrapolating somewhat
from Lord (absolute power) Acton, White shows that a solitary
immortal ruler would be able to make his every dream -- and nightmare
-- come true.
Synopsis by Graham Andrews
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