Herman Lasher develops a chemical concoction to summon the "powers of the subconscious mind". He drinks the formula, and falls unconscious. He finds himself in a strange place. As he describes it, "a dream turned to reality!" Herman explores the strange world, when he is suddenly accosted by the Other Creature. It glides away on its outstretched skin, akin to that of a flying squirrel, and carries Lasher away to its cave.