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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... Village labor pool, had the makings of an efficient buffer, but slipped up on occasion. “He says it's terribly urgent.” “What is it, Buford?” “I must see you,” responded a nasal tenor. “Please, Emil.” Minute crow's feet gathered at the ...
... Village were reserved. I took the liberty of selecting the entire upper floor of Petite Palais, a charming hostelry, if not as luxuriously appointed as either reserved suite. Should the apartments fail to meet with your satisfaction ...
... Village, one of several casinos tempted wagering enthusiasts with everything from museum-piece games of chance like ... villages, spas and fishing resorts draped along the Southern Sea's gold coast, where monied guests enjoyed any and ...
... villages and spas, but not one simple follow-up take here on this fucking beach?” Reclining at ease in the landau, his features expressionless, Shatterhand regarded the director with an air of maddening calm. “Please tell me why ...
... Village before he rejoined the loafing assemblage of actors, technicians, crewmen and extras. He lifted the assistant director's bullhom and called, “Okay, kiddies, let's pack it in for what's left of the period. Roam around, have some ...