Authentic Science Fiction Monthly No. 52 — page 78: what you’re looking at

Machine-transcribed from the original scan — historical spelling and the odd misread are preserved.

CLEANSING FIRES shining metal object—an Earth-made Gormesb Blaster. Munson intoned his ack- nowledgments automatically, his mind preoccupied with the flagrant breach of the ESRA code which Rodell had com- mitted in allowing the alien savage to gain possession of an immensely powerful Earth weapon. The ceremony completed, the Khuru led a procession of his guests into another hall, in the centre of which was a low table heaped with decoratively prepared food and surrounded by divans. Rodell and Mun- son, as honoured guests, were placed on either side of the Khuru. The banquet com- menced after a ceremonial blessing of the food. Remem- bering his training, Munson managed to eat the required amount of the seemingly end- less procession of dishes, only gagging at the final one, which was composed of some form of roast meat covered in a revoltingly perfumed sauce. When the meal was over a number of guards removed the table and pushed the divans back towards the walls, leaving a rectangle of clear floor in readiness for the entertainment. Two Manyhians of the working class entered, each 77 carrying a broad sword and dagger. They walked with measured tread up to the dais upon which the Khuru was seated and bowed—then turned and proceeded to hack at each other in bloody com- bat. Munson watched the barbaric display with rising nausea. He glanced across at Rodell and noted, to his disgust, that the man seemed to be sharing the Manyhians’ silent enjoyment of the gladia- tors’ performance. The centre of the floor rapidly became stained with the blood that oozed from the gashes on the bodies of the combatants. Soon one of them lost his footing on the slippery surface and crashed to the floor. The other threw aside his dagger and, wielding his broad sword in both hands, severed the head of his victim with one mighty stroke. Panting with exhaustion, his body shining with sweat and blood, the victor turned towards the Khuru and raised his sword in salute. The Khuru levelled the Gormesh Blaster, intoned a brief ritual and pressed the trigger. Only as the charred body of the gladiator fell to the floor did the Manyhians break their silence, giving a great shout of approval for the ceremonious comiclbooks.corn