human
The priestesses will lead the crowd here, predicted Kho.
gpt
They know I took an Earthman, and I fear they have finished with the others.
human
Finished with--_What_?
gpt
It has been an extremely dry season. Kho rippled his tentacles and moved lissomely to the doorway, assuming a grotesquely furtive posture as he peered out.
human
The people are maddened by the drought. The will be aroused to sacrifice you to the Canal Gods, like the others who survived.
gpt
Canal gods! croaked Charlie.
human
This can't be right! Aren't you civilized here? I can't be the only Earthman they've seen!
gpt
It is true that Earthmen are perfectly safe at most times.
human
But the laws! The earth consul--
gpt
The canals are low. You can feel the heat and dryness for yourself. The crowds are inflamed by temple prophecies. And then, your ship, flaming down from the skies--