Authentic Science Fiction Monthly No. 52 — page 90: what you’re looking at

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

CLEANSING FIRES gripping convulsively at the blaster which lay by his side. “Hundreds of workers have been healed by your magic, and afterwards stayed to listen to your traitorous speeches. Your life is already forfeit, unless you obey me.” It would be so easy to treat the degenerate ruler and live for the rest of his time on Manyh the comfortable life of the court; but Munson knew that was not for him; his path was already chosen. He would not take the easy way like Rodell and become a traitor to ESRA and himself. *““My magic is not for you, Khuru,” he said, retaining the cool smile as he wittingly threw away his life. One of the nobles stepped forward. He smashed his clenched fist into Munson’s face. The Earthman reeled and fell to the floor. “Perhaps this will help you change your mind, dog of a worker.”’ Munson lifted himself to his feet with quiet dignity, wiping the blood from his mouth. “I have no fear of your tyranny. You cannot force me to heal you.” The Khururaised the blaster. Munson knew that death was very close. He scanned the faces once more. He expected 89 no help from Rodell; in fact he did not wish for any, but it would have been interesting to see the Agent’s reactions to the situation. “No, not that way, mighty Khuru,”’ said one of the nobles. “The thunder weapon is for heroes. Let this man _ be burnt to death on the square in front of the palace as an example to the fools who have listened to his treason.” The weapon lowered. “You speak with the tongue of wisdom, Kathraq,” said the Khuru. ‘You hear, brother of man? What is your choice —will you obey me, or die in the fire?” Munson’sfacewasasmiling, immobile mask with glistening, wide staring eyes. So it was to be the fire—that would be as good a symbol as any. Some- how, he had hoped .. . but that had been another world. Munson looked out across the palace square from the top of the mound of tinder-dry brushwood. His hands were bound firmly to the stake behind him, leaving his body and neck free. The nobles stood on the palace steps, bearing in their midst the litter which carried the sick Khuru. Munson won- dered idly whether the ruler was suffering from anything comiclooks.com