Mind GamesConditioned to enhance an inborn ability to acutely perceive another's emotional state, Klavik, security director of a massive world ruled by the sole monarchy in neohuman interstellar society, investigates the ruler's assassination while on holiday in parsecs-distant Eden, a terraformed pleasure world operated by a distant syndicate peopled by alien exotics. A pair of royal companions force themselves upon Klavik during his sojourn in Eden, where his empathic perception “sixth sense” enables him to fasten on a nervous official as a prime suspect to interrogate, but is frustrated because his energies must be channeled toward protecting his illustrious companions. Eden's planetary director, Shatterhand, ushers the threesome into a “hall of mirrors” where nothing is as it seems. After feints and ploys designed to distract or frighten he and his charges away, Klavik senses “nibblings” at the limbic fringes of his mind, and intuits the the presence of an alien telepath. Sly mental assaults persist until his charges are taken hostage, and the ultimate confrontation erupts in a rapacious battle of wills. |
From inside the book
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... Highness,” assured Kurani, “need never pose that question in your own hall. But shouldn't you be comforting your ... Highness, allow me to present Kraan State Security Director Klavik.” Klavik repeated his low bow. “Your servant always ...
... Highness.” “I'll listen to no argument, Prime Minister. I meant what I said.” Visibly upset, Kurani took a grip on himself. “The terrible happening in Eden drives your noble urge, Highness. Your motive is easily understood. Yet I beg ...
William Walling. “But Highness, you —” “Enough! You've heard my last word on it, so make your travel plans accordingly.” With that, Kewart ab Kraan directed a meaningful glance at Klavik, turned on his heel and took his leave. Although ...
... Highness, Kewart ab Kraan, Princeps, future Protector of the Holy First Principle, heir to the Throne of our late sovereign, His Omnipotence XXIV, Esemplastos.” “Your Royal Highness.” Shatterhand bent forward in the geriatric appliance ...
... Highness.” He followed the striking android “unit” into the azure twilight reigning outdoors. # Greeted by Operations Manager Buford when Kolodaan 's pinnace grounded at the southern hemisphere space terminal, he and his charges had ...