The Search for Malaclypse

[Ophiuchi]

PROCESSIONAL:

Reggie's curiosity grew as the Vixen plodded slowly across the vast, bleak Yukon system. He had called ahead to Lev Shestov's "Cave", hoping to locate Malaclypse, but Lev wasn't available.

He needn't have worried. As the Vixen approached Freeport 14, he spied the Geisha liner orbiting Planet Beaver Creek about 10 klicks from the Freeport. He saw no other ships orbiting near the "Chapel"; but a number of small shuttlecraft could be seen ferrying back and forth from the station.

Upon closer observation, Mal's ship seemed to be "shimmering". Reggie soon located the huge orbiting klieg lights which bathed the ship with random, multi-colored beams. Even more garish were the huge "holo-banners" moored along the approach to the liner:

"Welcome to Chapel Perilous!"

"Revival Meeting Tonight! Free Admission!"

"Learn the Secrets the TAZ never told you!"

"Free Kallisti Gold!"

"Learn to Juggle! Free Lessons!"

Reggie's face made a decision: The "worry lines" became a full-fledged frown as the Veranda.Vixen moored with the Freeport and began offloading. He gave his crew indefinite shore leave, and was soon striding towards the Main Terminal in search of Malaclypse.

Again, the trail was easily marked. A large sign proclaimed "Free Shuttle to the Chapel!",and a line of chattering people made their way towards the indicated shuttle bay. Reggie spied an extremely hirsute man who seemed to be herding the throng along and taking their names on a large data-pad. He recalled the man's face from the security vid which had also identified Mal.

"Umm, excuse me.. Mr. Shestov? I'm Reginald Waverly. I was told to meet our mutual friend here?"

"Oh, heya Pops! You're right on time. The Meeting starts in about 15 mikes. I'll be done with this last bunch shortly, and you can fly out with me in my personal flitter. Shiney?"

Reggie gritted his teeth at the man's familiarity, but what were his choices?

"Of course, sir. I shall wait in your establishment." He turned and proceeded in the direction indicated by Lev's grubby finger.

Next: PRELUDE

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<span style="color:#339999">Reg Waverly * Moira &quot;Kentigearan&quot; Waverly * Fnordette Sophie Noir</span>



<span style="color:#66CCCC">Sophie's on the Square * Veranda Incognita</span>