The Virgin of Zesh and the Tower of Zanid — L. Sprague de Camp

The Star-Rovers

It is the Year 2168 -- and men have become star-rovers.

The agreed-upon code is that sciences and gadgets beyond the cultural level of the peoples inhabiting the other planets will not be introduced by Earthmen, or other visitors.

Such is the situation on the planet of Krishna, most Earthlike in physical attributes, climate, and inhabitants, when adventurer Anthony Fallon decides to take the risk of winning a kingdom. With enough money, perhaps he can raise a private army…

But there is one risk that Anthony Fallon hesitates to take. Only under pain of death will he explore the mysteries of the dreaded TOWER OF ZANID!