Last Enemy

by H. Beam Piper

Transcriber’s Note:
This etext was produced from Astounding Science Fiction, August, 1950. Extensive research did not uncover any evidence that the copyright on this publication was renewed.

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LAST ENEMY

BY H. BEAM PIPER

The last enemy was the toughest of all—and conquering him was in itself almost as dangerous as not conquering. For a strange pattern of beliefs can make assassination an honorable profession!

Illustrated by Miller

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Along the U-shaped table, the subdued clatter of dinnerware and the buzz of conversation was dying out; the soft music that drifted down from the overhead sound outlets seemed louder as the competing noises diminished. The feast was drawing to a close, and Dallona of Hadron fidgeted nervously with the stem of her wineglass as last-moment doubts assailed her.

The old man at whose right she sat noticed, and reached out to lay his hand on hers.