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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... wish, sir.” The doddering elder lifted the cut-glass decanter, set it on a silver tray. Kurani watched in heavy-lidded silence as the library doors closed automatically behind him. Sipping brandy, he eyed Klavik over the snifter's rim ...
... wish to see, poke around without hindrance.” “Into the putrid pit with anonymity!” Kurani's deep-set eyes glistened with vengeful fervor. “I intend to accompany you every step of the way, let's be clear about that. Nor do I care a whit ...
... wish.” Shatterhand killed the audio circuit. He locked the safe, commanded the portrait to slide back in place, and closed his eyes tightly. His throbbing temples told him his mind had been probed much more deeply than his choice of ...
... smooth baritone conveying minimal warmth. “I am Planetary Director Emil Shatterhand. I wish to beg forgiveness for your tiresome wait.” five Noting the executive's fluent if rather flat Kraant, Klavik MIND GAMES Walling 19.
... wish to extend every courtesy and privilege Eden has to offer. I realize a terrible tragedy brought you here. Nevertheless, I beg you to think of yourselves as cherished guests. Enjoy Eden's hospitality as long as you wish. Go wherever ...