Murder On The Golden Halo

by W H Beswick

  After bathing and dressing in my best jeans and an Earth shirt called a hoodie. I assumed this was because it had a hood. It matters not what it was called, it was comfortable. I put on a pair of Nikes and went down to the parlor to find the young ensign standing by the poker table. I glanced at the bar. No one was tending it. “Pardon me, do you know where the bartender is?”

  “Good morning your highness.” The ensign said dealing out cards to six empty chairs. “This bar doesn’t open until tonight. If you wish to have a drink.”

  “Too early for that. I wanted to give the bartender who was here last night a tip.”

  “I think he is off duty, but he will be here tonight.” She said looking up from the cards and smiling.

  “Excellent. You are playing tonight?”

  “No your highness, I am to be the dealer. It has been awhile since I dealt so I am getting in some practice. There can be no mistakes, considering who is playing.”

  “That would be myself, the Prime Centurion, his loyal Optio and the mysterious fourth player.”

  “There are to be five players. The ship’s doctor will be playing. I don’t know who the last player is. He keeps to his cabin. Never eats in the dining room.”

  “One wonders how he got invited to the game.”

  “He is a friend of the Prime Centurion. I think they served in the war together. Must be an odd fellow.”

  “Oh he is not the only one.” The ensign said looking around and smiling. “There is a passenger on the top deck staying in Lady Venusun’s personal cabin. He or she came on board before the crew. Never leaves the cabin. Captain Fross has given strict orders not to disturb them.”

  “How does he eat? His food has to be delivered.”

  “The stewards are told to leave the food cart by his door. The captain made clear anyone disturbing him or even attempting to catch a glimpse of him would lose their position.”

  “That is quite mysterious.” I said. Then shrugged. “Probably a royal, or some kind of famous singer or actor. They all have an exaggerated opinion of themselves. Fame and wealth will do that to you. But remember one thing, my dear ensign.”

  “What is that?” She asked with very big eyes. It was then I noticed the points of her ears sticking out from under her hair. If not for the ears I would have thought she came from an entirely different world.

  “Fate is a fickle bitch.”

  “What is a bitch?”

  “Oh it is an Earth word. It seems to have several meanings but mostly refers to a mean spirited woman. So fate is a bitch and fickle. She will turn on you with a snap of her fingers.”

  “That is a very frightening thought, your highness.”

  “Yes, it is.”

  CHAPTER 18

  THE GAME IS ON

  The rest of the day was quite uneventful, except I did catch sight of the skinny fellow again. He was sneaking around on the top deck. I was about to confront him but he must have seen me because he quickly darted into the stairwell.

  I was tempted to pursue the fellow but I had more important things to do.

  Such as to decide what to wear for the game. Distraction is another part of the game of poker. One’s attire could throw another player’s game off. Since I was the only female at the game I dressed accordingly.

  I was wearing a very tight shirt called a tank top. It was bright pink with the word juicy printed across my more than ample bosom. I was not wearing a bra so my nipples were there for all to see. Crude I know but so effective in distracting the males. My skirt was black leather with zippers on each side. Black and pink fishnet stockings and pink high top sneakers completed my ensemble. I studied my reflection in a mirror and nodded my approval. The final touches were my pink framed sunglasses and a bright pink cap with the word pink printed on the front. I must admit I didn’t understand why the word pink was on the cap. It was obviously pink.

  A spray of perfume and dash of lipstick. I was off. I made my way down to the parlor, walked into the room and struck a pose. Hip tilted to one side. Hand on one hip. Chest thrust out. Smile on my face. Every eye turned to me. The room became silent. Several jaws dropped. Another great entrance. My smile brightened and I said, “Let’s play some poker.”

  I was making my way to the table. The onlookers parting to let me pass. I noted my favorite bartender looking over. I paused. “I think I will stick to wine tonight. Something red and sweet.”

  I came to the table. Still all eyes were on me. The young ensign stood there with a blush on her face. My pink eyes moved around the table. The Prime Centurion dressed in a white shirt and pants sat across from me. Beside him still in uniform was the good Optio Zana. Dr. Allton Crag, still wearing his white dress uniform, sat by the Zana. Then came the ensign and myself.

  At last the mysterious fifth player decided to join us. He wandered into the parlor without looking around. The odd man slipped into the chair across from the dealer.

  Suddenly the cards flew across the table. The ensign quickly apologized while gathering up the cards but her eyes were on the stranger.

  I later found out his name was Daris. A common enough name which fit his common face. All in all he was a most unassuming man except for his too skinny body. But closer examination revealed his suit was expensive and his fingernails polished. Then painted blue. Not a custom on my world but I understand it is quite fashionable on some. I studied him. He was the unknown factor in this game. The way the man looked around made me wonder why he was sitting at this table. He obviously didn’t want to be here. On the other hand, with all his nervous tics and sweating it might just be the way he played. Covering up all his tells with this act. I would have to be careful not to underestimate this fellow.

  “The game tonight will be seven card stud.” Ensign said sounding like she had gotten control of herself.

  “Excellent.” I said but frowned when the Prime Centurion turned to a small table set up beside him. There was a wood case sitting on it. He opened it, revealing a red velvet lined interior. Inside lay a brown bottle with a long stem along with two crystal glasses. He carefully lifted the bottle out. My curiosity piqued. I asked. “And that is?”

  “Princess Deela, this is one the finest Earth whiskies ever made. 1926 Macallan.” Gar Way said, holding the bottle out so I could see the label. “Please don’t ask for a sip. The bottle is half empty. I only take a drink on special occasions. This being my wedding voyage.”

  “I would think sharing it with your soon to be wife would be more romantic.” I said, thinking I really wanted to taste this whiskey, or even better see what my favorite bartender could do with it.

  “My fiancé has never acquired the taste for whiskey.”

  “Terrible stuff. I don’t understand what all the fuss is about.” Queen Rexannis said. I hadn’t noticed the queen standing in the corner, looking thoroughly bored, which is standard for all royals. I also noted the skinny man was standing in the back of the room. There wasn’t much of a crowd. They were all here out of curiosity. I assumed they would drift away as the game proceeded. Poker is fun to play but not so much fun to watch, At least, that’s what I think.

  “Are we ready to play, Princess Deela and gentlemen?” The ensign asked.

  I glanced down at the stacks of colorful pokers chips in front of me. I won’t bore you with the cost to buy into this game. It was high, but wasn’t an amount I couldn’t afford, besides I expected to win. I picked up a gold chip and began to turn it over and over with my fingers. I saw the Prime Centurion looking right into my face. He was still handsome despite the scars. I gave him of my best smiles and said. “Let the games begin.”

  “Eager to lose some money?” The Prime Centurion said, filling one of the small glasses almost to the rim. It had a very nice brown color, making me want a sample even more. As I studied the man across from me. I noted a trickle of sweat run down his face. The war had indeed changed Bacco Uxtel.

  Such a shame.

  The Prime Centurion toasted us with the glass a
nd gulped it down. I swear his whole body seemed to shiver. He even let off a small gasp. He nodded to the ensign who began to deal as we all put a single gold chip into the pot. I leaned back, not looking at my cards. This was the time to study the faces as they peeked under their cards. The Prime Centurion showed nothing, but the Beta Chief raised an eyebrow. Since I hadn’t played him before I had no idea what this meant. Good cards? Bad Cards? The doctor actually grinned but quickly pressed his lips into a tight line. His eyes were bright. He had some good cards. The stranger showed nothing. This man might just be a player.

  Excellent.

  It’s no fun to take money from bad players.

  It was at this point I lifted the edge of my cards and peeked.

  Two aces.

  I showed nothing until the Prime Centurion began to gasp for air. He struggled to his feet and grabbed his neck. His whole body violently shook, then he fell to the ground still squirming and gasping. Then, he suddenly stopped moving.

  The room for a few seconds was filled with statues, no one moving or saying a word. Finally, I asked the question that needed to be asked. “Is he dead?”

  CHAPTER 19

  NOT SO FAST

  “By the great god of dag, he is dead.” I gasped as the doctor jumped up and ran to the man’s side. Queen Rexannis was just as fast. They both knelt around the body. The queen begging her fiancé to wake up. The doctor undid the Prime Centurion shirt and began to feel around the man’s face and body. He seemed to be making a big show of it.

  I watched for a moment but then looked up. Optio was standing behind the doctor. The ensign hadn’t moved. Both had shocked looks on their faces. The man known as Daris just sat there sucking on his fingers. The man looked terrified. I looked around the room. My skinny friend was nowhere to be seen.

  “I was afraid of this.” Dr. Crag said sitting back on his knees. “It is his heart. I gave the Prime Centurion a quick check up after he boarded and warned him not to get too excited. I was against the game but agreed to play just to keep an eye on my patient.”

  Well done I was thinking to myself but for some reason was not convinced the Prime Centurion had just died of a heart attack.

  “My lord, we must move the body.” The doctor said, looking quite grim. Queen Rexannis was slumped over the body sobbing. Zana showed nothing. He just stood there like a good little soldier.

  Captain Fross rushed into the parlor and took everything in. He nodded. “I want this room cleared right now. Everyone leave. The doctor and I will handle this.”

  “May I suggest you send for the queen’s maids?” I asked. “Queen Rexannis seems quite distressed.”

  “An excellent suggestion, your highness.” The captain said. “Ensign Sig, if you could.”

  The young ensign darted out of the room, looking thrilled to able to leave the room.

  I shall move ahead in the tale because it all became something of a muddled mess. Everyone excluding myself was escorted out of the room. I discreetly moved behind the bar and watched. Doing my best not to be noticed. Considering my attire, this was not easy. The maids were brought in, along with Prime Minister Tunga. She took a long look down at the body but there was something in her manner. I couldn’t put my finger on it. The queen was taken back to her room leaving only myself, the captain, the Optio and the doctor. They were preparing to move the body when suddenly a voice filled the room,

  “Not so fast. Leave the body where it is.”

  Captain Fross looked up and around. Now very nervous. “Lady Venusun. I had no idea you were watching the game.”

  “Captain, I want a second opinion.” Lady Venusun said in an icy voice. “Don’t even think of protesting doctor. We both know that your reputation is not without blemish. But what concerns me is you how you became the Golden Halo’s doctor. I didn’t realize you were on board until I tuned into the game. But that is a matter for another time. For now the body will be left where it is. Captain Fross you will go get my employee from my suite. Tell him to bring his black case.”

  “Are you sure…”

  “I have never been more assured of anything in my life. Princess Deela, stop hiding behind the bar. You may want to go along with the captain. I assume you will want to meet the employee. He is an Earthling.”

  CHAPTER 20

  THE EARTHLING APPEARS

  I couldn’t believe it. Not only was I going to meet an Earthling but the one who solved murders and such. To say my heart was beating fast would be an understatement.

  I eagerly followed the captain up to Lady Venusun’s suite. It was set apart from all the other cabins. There was even a security door that required a password. I hurried along beside Fross. He must have noted my eagerness because he slowed down, almost touched my elbow, but caught himself.

  “Princess, I know you wish to meet the Earthling.” He said looking a little grim. “I must warn you. I met several Earthling and this one is quite different.”

  “Oh please, I have seen pictures and videos.” I said, smiling when we came to the twin doors.

  “Very well,” He said and rapped on the door.

  There was no answer. Another rap. Still no answer. Finally the captain banged on the door and called out. “Sir, I need you to come to the door. It is the captain. Please. We both know I have a pass key.”

  I heard someone move close to the door. A muffled voice called out. “What do you want, captain?”

  “Lady Venusun has need of your assistance. It is very important.”

  I sucked in my breath as the door swung open. The Earthling appeared at the door.

  To say I was disappointed is an understatement.

  The Earthling was a little over five feet with a slender body that was a little wide around the waist, but he appeared to have no muscles. I could tell this because he was wearing a red striped bathrobe and slippers. His black wiry hair was cut close to his head. Round, gold, wire framed glasses rested on his nose. His brown eyes looked confused. But the most shocking thing was his skin was the color of chocolate.

  “You are not an Earthling!” I gasped, the words coming out my mouth before I could stop them. And the words just kept coming. “But, but you are all wrong. You are not tall enough. You don’t have any muscles. Where are your tattoos? And, and you are the wrong color.”

  “Princess Deela, please!” The captain gasped giving me a horrified look.

  The Earthling just looked at me with a small grin. He reached up and tugged on his left ear. When he spoke it was in a very soft tone, almost apologetic. His voice was quite pleasant with a faint accent. He also seemed amused. “Ah, ah, Princess Deela, you are not the first woman I have disappointed. You are just the latest in many. I can see you are a fan of the images put on the different sites. But I assure you I am an Earthling. Considering how things are, why would I pretend to be one?”

  “Your appearance is rather underwhelming.” I said trying to recover from my shock. “It just never occurred to me there were different kinds of Earthlings.”

  “Ah, ah, well your highness or, pardon me, is that the correct way to address you?” He said looking a little embarrassed. “You are the first princess I have met.”

  “That or princess. Either one is fine. You were saying?”

  “Oh yes, Earthlings come in all shapes and sizes. I will admit I am not the best example.”

  “Sir, we are in need of your assistance in one of the parlors.” Fross said, pushing his way into the conversation. I had many more questions but there was a dead body in the parlor. My curiosity about this Earthling would have to wait. “If you could hurry along. Lady Venusun insisted and suggested you bring your black case.”

  “What is the problem, captain?” He asked.

  “I suggest you come see for yourself.”

  I was about to tell but a look from the captain actually made me close my mouth.

  Quite rude, but for now I would hold my tongue.

  “Oh, ah, well let me get dressed.” He said, looking very distrac
ted. Then he abruptly closed the door. It didn’t take him long to change. Just a few minutes later, he came out wearing a well pressed black suit with very thin lapels and an equally thin black tie. His shirt was white and appeared to be quite stiff. The cuffs of his shirt were folded back and it had no buttons. Gold clasps seemed to hold them together. I noticed his well-polished black shoes.

  “You have holes in your shoes?” I said.

  “Ah, yes princess. It’s an Earth style of shoe called wingtips. Not my first choice but my size is hard to find.”

  “I don’t see any wings. Why would they call them wingtips?”

  “Ah well, your highness, I didn’t name them so I have no idea why they are called wingtips.” He said giving another of those small smiles before giving his attention to the captain. “Shall we, captain?”

  I looked at the square shaped case the Earthling was carrying. It was made of leather, and appeared to open at the top. The Earthling gave me a small smile, bow and motioned for me to go ahead. “After you, your highness.”

  Not a word was said as we trooped back down to the parlor. The Earthling seemed to be humming to himself. I didn’t recognize the tune. Probably an Earth song of some kind. I was familiar with music. I enjoyed something called rock and roll and show tunes. Before I could ask we were back in the parlor. The Earthling took two steps into the room and stopped. He studied the body and then said. “I would like to go back to my cabin now.”

  CHAPTER 21

  THE EARTHLING’S FINDINGS

  “Must you always be so droll?” Lady Venusun’s voice filled the room but it had an amused tone to it.

  “Ah, ah, Lady Venusun, this is the Prime Centurion Bacco Uxtel. I really think it would be best…”

  “I think it would be best for you to do your job. The man is dead. The doctor says it was a heart attack. I don’t have a high opinion of the doctor so I want your opinion.”

  “You going to take the word of an Earthling over mine.” Dr. Crag said, sounding aghast. He took a moment to glare at the Earthling. To be honest, I was somewhat surprised. I mean, he was an Earthling. Everyone knows how they are. At least I thought I did. Now I wasn’t sure. I will admit I was impressed with the way he was just taking the insult. I would not have, but I am princess and no one would speak to me in that manner.