"Ready."
The TV man let fly. The heavy ashtray sailed directly at Reev's face.
About a foot from it, the ashtray appeared to hit, or sink into, an
invisible shield. It did not shatter, but seemed to fuse, increasing
its diameter but decreasing its thickness. It became the size of a
pizza platter, but exceedingly thin. It continued to grow in diameter,
becoming fainter and fainter. Then it disappeared completely.
When the hubbub of amazed comment had subsided Reev smiled and said:
"Nobody hurt, I trust?"
One of the reporters in the first row said, "No, but I'd swear it's
quite a bit hotter up here."
"True. That usually happens when matter is changed into energy."
"Can you be more explicit?"
"Sorry, no."
"Would you have the same protection against a bullet?"
"Entirely the same."
"How much warning do you need to put it into effect?"
"None. It takes effect at the first sight of danger."
"Would it work against a bomb?"
"Yes."
"A _hydrogen_ bomb?"
"Yes."
"Then you're invulnerable."
"Completely."
"Well," a reporter said, "I'm awfully glad you're on our side."
A ripple of nervous laughter went through the crowded room.