Only two bowling balls were found in the garbage bins during our search, and I didn’t recognize either one.

“Now why would there be balls in the dumpster?” Jack wondered out loud. “Does the pro shop ever throw them out? Is this where they discard them?”

“An excellent question, but I can’t see the pro shop getting rid of bowling balls. If they’d received a ball that was damaged in some way, they would take it back to the distributer and get a replacement, or at least attempt to. Although, if a ball had been damaged beyond repair, perhaps,” I shrugged. “I really don’t know the criteria. However Smith will.”

Dino hovered while we squatted and examined the balls.

“Upon closer examination,” added Jack, “this one has scrapes but the other one is melted a bit.”

“The culprit must have been doing a bit of testing to find the quickest way to destroy a bowling ball,” I said. This looked more like a premeditated action than a fit of rage. Why would someone—alien or otherwise—damage bowling balls? What was so important it rode on the out- come of the tournament?

Looking at the bowling ball in his gloved hands, Jack said, “This one may have a little blood on it. Although, with all the dirt and goo, I can’t really tell if it does, let alone what color of blood. Let me take these balls over to the lab. Maybe I can get them to the head of the line and also encourage the techs to speed up our other samples.”

“Good idea. I’m going to look for anyone, other than bowlers, who had access to the locker room. Smith may have noticed something and not realized it.”

Jack turned and took off. With mixed feelings, I watched him leave.

I had no idea what to make of him. During the day, Jack’s actions had switched between arrogance and great detecting—numerous times.

Ambassador Rare had been silent while we worked, but that didn’t last. “I think humans had the best access to the locker room.”

“Why do you say that?” I asked.

“It is a human bowling alley and everyone seems to know everyone else—the human bowlers I mean. And you all look the same.”

Perhaps he had decided to tease me but, as far as I could tell, Dino was serious.

“If you’re going to play detective, you need to be logical. All teams have access to the special locker room. So anyone, of any species, could have given the access code to someone else who isn’t necessarily a bowler. The human bowlers certainly know each other, but I’m betting the same is true of the Rheinon, or any other species. You would have to know each other to make it this far. And, by the way, you all look the same too.”

I’d surprised myself at my reaction to his words. Although Dino had reacted undiplomatically, I didn’t have the same option. In the future, I needed to carefully watch my words.

Dino gave me a startled glance, and then we both laughed.

“You are correct, Detective Sergeant. I apologize; I was not thinking. What else do we need to do?”

“Apology accepted.” However, I wondered about an ambassador who would utter the words he had.

I continued, “I think we’re done for the day. Let’s meet here again tomorrow morning at eight. Hopefully, some lab results will be available.”

“I will send you my report this evening.”

Dino took his leave and, since Smith was nowhere to be seen, I made my way home. There I found Mom gazing at me with an unfocussed stare. We consoled each other and worried about Maori.

“How’s the investigation going? Any more clues?” she asked.

“Not about the murdered alien, but we did find some damaged bowling balls in a dumpster behind Revolutions. I’m afraid I need to change again.” We laughed. I frequently needed clean clothes. However, from my mother’s quizzical look, I remembered she didn’t know about the mountain of damaged bowling balls, so I gave a short explanation.

“Do you think the two situations are connected?” Her eyes lit up.

“The murder and the damaged bowling balls?”

Mom nodded. At least I had taken her thoughts away from Maori.

“They’re certainly connected through the bowling alley, but otherwise I don’t know quite what to think. I need a lot more information.”

The retired assistant commissioner gave me her patented pay attention look. “I talked to a couple of people this evening, after you left the vet’s. Tari, you must be very careful and thorough in your investigations. There can be no room for error. With alien nations involved, the political pressure will be immense. In fact, it’s already started.”

“I’ve thought about that. In fact, I can’t think about anything else. I really hope I’ll be taken off the case, and soon.”

“That’s unlikely to happen. If nothing else, a scapegoat may be needed. But you’re an excellent investigator, taught by the best—me. And I’ll give you all the help I can manage.”

We laughed and I gave her a hug. She really was the best, or she wouldn’t have become an assistant commissioner.

Exhaustion threatened both of us, so we turned in. In bed, I read a few reports—including the ambassador’s—but soon I was fast asleep.

* * * *

In the morning, I said, “Call me as soon as you hear anything about Maori. I’ll be busy with the investigation, but I’ll let your calls go through.”

“Of course, dear. Don’t forget, though, we probably won’t know anything until this afternoon.”

I nodded and hurried out the door. At Revolutions, Dino and Jack waited by the front desk.

“Good news, ma’am,” said Jack. “The lab rushed the results from the bowling balls we found in the garbage, and they’re also rushing the murder samples. That stain on the bowling ball was indeed blood and it matched a Rheinon.”

“Do we know who it is?” I asked.

“A bowling official named Ugon E Smat,” Jack said while he read from his com.

I knew this official and his behavior surprised me. Why would Ugon stoop to something as low as sabotage? “Ambassador, what do you have to say? Why would your bowling official destroy bowling balls?” I asked.

“This is unusual. I will talk to him immediately.” Dino’s hands rubbed together.

“I think not. We’re all going to keep this information under wraps for the time being.”

“Maybe you are mistaken about Ugon. How do you know it is his blood?” asked Dino.

“Pretty much every human is in our database, and off-world visitors are asked to give a sample of their blood, green or otherwise, when they arrive. Don’t you remember doing that?” I replied.

“You are right. I had forgotten.” Dino had a hand at his throat.

My com rang. “Sarge, I have some information,” said Harrison. “Apparently, Smith took down the Closed for Cleaning sign. He hadn’t realized the sign was up, but he was getting so many requests for a bathroom that he went up to the second floor to determine why.”

“Excellent. I’ll have a chat with him since I’m here at Revolutions. We’ll have a meeting this afternoon at two in the squad room. Inform everyone, please. Jack and Dino are with me, but I don’t know where Brian is.”

“Will do.”

I had left a message for Brian last night indicating where to meet me, but he hadn’t shown up yet.

I put my com in its holder, and turned to Jack and Dino. “Why don’t you two go and do some people watching. Revolutions is open today for practice, so it’s a golden opportunity. Keep an eye on Ugon, if he’s around. And have another chat with the medical crew outside in the ambulance. When I get back from talking with Smith, we’ll have a discussion with Ugon.”

I walked down to the front desk. Smith was speaking to one of his employees, and I wanted to hear the conversation.

“I’m glad you’re feeling better, because it was pretty hectic yesterday,” said Smith.

After glancing at me, the tall, willowy blonde said, “Ah, just a little flu bug. I’m mostly fine today.”

Her body language indicated discomfort, but from what?

“Have you talked to any aliens? They’re pretty interesting,” I said.

She stiffened. “Who are you?”

“I’m Detective Sergeant Dominion. I’m in charge of the murder investigation. I’m sure you’ve heard about it. I have questions for you.”

I gave her a sharp glance. “To start again, what is your name and have you talked to any aliens?”

“I’m Twin Park. And aliens? Yes, I’ve chatted with a couple of them.” Her nametag confirmed her unusual name.

“Who have you talked to?” Working at the front desk, she probably had contacted most of the participants in the competition. She wouldn’t meet my eyes.

“I’ve greeted everyone.”

A bit of an exaggeration perhaps, but I continued, “Have you spent time with anyone in particular?”

“A Rheinon named Ugon. He’s cute.” Twin sported a wide grin. “Short, but cute.”

Cute? How could she find an alien attractive?

“We had a couple of meals together. He has some really interesting stories.” She brushed her hair back off her face.

“Twin, did you give him the code to the locker room?” asked Smith. Apparently, I wasn’t the only one suspicious.

“Ah, I might have mentioned it. All the Rheinon bowlers go in there, so I didn’t see the harm. After all, he is a bowling official.” Her eyes darted back and forth between Smith and me.

“Yes, he is an official.” What an idiot! “Did you hear about the damaged bowling balls?”

Twin nodded, with a downcast expression.

“Well, someone with the code to the locker room did the destruction. So you and Ugon have now been added to my list of suspects.”

“Why would I destroy the bowling balls?” The look of disbelief on Twin’s face convinced me.

“That’s what I’m investigating.” My gut feeling exonerated her. Ugon had simply found his advantage.

“But, but, I didn’t go in the locker room. Am I in trouble?” Tears started forming in her eyes.

“We shall see. Is there anything else you want to tell me?”

She shook her head and rubbed her eyes.

“Okay. However, if you think of anything, let me know. In the meantime, you’d better get to work and behave yourself.”

Without another word, she walked behind the counter.

I pulled Smith out of earshot.

“I don’t think she had anything to do with the damaged bowling balls—other than allowing Ugon access,” said Smith.

And neither did I. “Why didn’t you tell me you had taken down the Closed for Cleaning sign?”

“I didn’t realize it was important. I figured someone had been fooling around and put the sign up to be a pest. There’s no way the cleaners wouldn’t have taken it down after they’d finished their work. Bowlers are always getting up to something, as I’ve experienced.”

I shook my head. Getting information out of witnesses often proved difficult. They always thought they knew which facts were important and which were not.

“Again, let me know when you’re free for dinner,” Smith said.

“At the rate my problems are mounting, you might be in for a long wait.” I’d hoped to at least squeeze in a game night in the near future but that would remain to be seen.

Leaving Smith, I found Jack and Dino on the second floor in casual conversation with some bowlers. I motioned my sidekicks over to my location. A Rheinon much taller than the ambassador came along with them. However, in terms of human height, Jack and I still towered over the Rheinon.

“Ma’am, may I introduce Neer E Know. He is our, I mean Rheinon, Chief of Security for the competition,” said Dino, bouncing a trifle.

“Neer, please meet Detective Sergeant Tarine Dominion, in charge of this murder investigation.” Dino managed a slight bow towards me.

Aliens from the BRITE Alliance didn’t exactly shake hands—they touched appendages to greet one another. So we had gone along with the practice.

“Nice to meet you,” I said while grasping his dry-skinned hand.

I said nothing further, but waited for his response.

“As security chief, I am disappointed in your lack of protection that allowed a Tristorian to die. I would like to offer my services.”

I coaxed myself to think carefully before answering, but my skin began to warm. How much help does one person need? And his criticism of our security offended me. Murders happen all the time regardless of the amount of security.

“Thank you for your offer and concern, but I can’t accept any further help, at this time. The ambassador represents all alien species, and he’s doing an excellent job.” I had never imagined using Dino as an excuse.

Neer bowed. “Very well. If you change your mind, tell Ambassador Rare. He knows where to find me.” Neer abruptly turned and walked away.

After Neer left our vicinity, Dino said, “I am sorry, Sergeant. I did not know what Neer was going to offer. He only told me he wanted to meet you.”

“That’s fine. You do understand my reasoning for not letting him be involved?”

“Yes. You think he may be part of the problem. I do not want to think that is possible about our security chief.”

“I’m sure he’s not, but we must be very careful. By the way, ambassador, I really am sorry for the loss of Keepe Style. He appeared to be a fine bowler and human, I mean a fine Tristorian being.”

“Yes. I spoke to him a couple of times, and it is a great loss for the Tristorians.”

I sighed. “Now, is Ugon around?”

Dino turned and pointed. “Yes, he is right over there, behind those Rheinon bowlers.”

“Good. Jack, why don’t you grab him, while Dino and I set up in the restaurant? It’s time for our chat with Ugon.”

While we settled at a table, I said, “Ambassador, have you talked to anyone about the situation with the melted bowling balls?”

“No, ma’am.” Dino’s hands twitched.

“Ambassador, please call me Tari or Sarge, like the other detectives.”

He appeared pleased at my suggestion. “Of course. I will try if you will try a little harder to call me Dino.”

I nodded. “Do you understand why I couldn’t have you talking to Ugon without me?”

“I thought about that and decided his actions may be part of the murder investigation.” Dino rubbed his arm. He seemed surprised by his movement.

“You’re correct.” I studied him. “Dino, you’re turning into a fine assistant. Now let’s sit down and think about questions for Ugon.”

Although difficulties arose reading the body language of alien species, Ugon appeared uncomfortable as he and Jack sat down.

“Why are you questioning me again?” he said. “I am continuing to try and get you taken off this investigation, and it should happen soon.”

“Really?” Ugon certainly clung to his notions. “Then why don’t you tell us why you ruined the bowling balls? We’ve discovered some of your genetic material, and you didn’t officially have access to the locker room.” I decided not to be specific about where we’d found his blood.

“Yes, I did damage the bowling balls.” Ugon put a hand to his throat.

“Why?” asked Dino. I glanced at Jack to tell him not to interfere. From the look on Jack’s face, I expected to hear about Dino’s questioning later.

“I wanted to discredit Earth. I tried to make it seem like a human did the damage by not destroying their own bowling balls. Humans need to be ejected from the Alliance.”

Dino looked at me.

I knew what his glance meant. “Ambassador, I received a report yesterday detailing the damage to the bowling balls. I can confirm that the human balls were not touched.”

Dino turned to Ugon. “How did you determine which balls to destroy?”

“Each world had their section in the locker room.” Ugon appeared proud of his brilliance.

“Ugon, you may not want Earth in the Alliance, but others do. Otherwise, humans would not have been contacted,” said Dino.

“You will regret their inclusion.” Ugon stood up, so the rest of us did too.

I hadn’t known we weren’t welcomed by everyone. Is this opinion Ugon’s alone?

My investigation had just ratcheted up a notch. For now, quizzing Ugon about the death of the Tristorian bowler, Keepe Style, needed to wait until we had more information. “What shall we do with you, Ugon?” I paused. “I need to call Inspector Hayden. Aliens committing crimes is unprecedented.”

“I will take care of this,” said Dino. “Until the politics are straightened out, as the Rheinon ambassador, I will make arrangements so that Ugon is banned from all bowling facilities and confined to quarters in the Rheinon embassy.”

Dino’s plan sounded workable, at least until further decisions were made. “Let me get a couple of officers to help you escort Ugon,” I said, and Dino looked relieved. I suspected he didn’t want Noor E. Know involved.

After Dino and Ugon left, I turned to Jack, giving him a quizzical look.

“That was a little too easy,” he said. “Why would Ugon confess?”

“It does seem strange, but perhaps it’s cultural. I’ll have a chat with Dino about Rheinon behavior.” My spirits lightened—we had solved one problem.

“I’m not sure it’s appropriate to allow the ambassador to ask questions during interviews—especially of his own species,” said Jack.

“Normally, I would agree with you, but the question was one I was going to ask anyway. And we need to be tactful regarding the ambassador—he represents all alien nations.”

“Well, so far, he hasn’t proven to be too much of a pest.”

Much to my surprise, Jack had almost complimented Dino. Enough of this. “Let’s go back to the office; we have a meeting.” Jack had put me in a cranky mood.

On our way past the front desk, Smith waved us over. “What do you know about the rumor the bowling competition is going to be postponed and transferred to another planet?” he asked, his face oozing anxiety. The bowling competition had boosted Revolutions’ business—business he obviously didn’t want to lose.

“Where did you hear that?” I asked.

“One of the Bremen told me.”

“I haven’t heard anything. It’s unlikely, but let me look into it.” If true, that would certainly be disappointing.

Smith nodded. He knew I wouldn’t leave a rumor like that alone.

“Interesting,” said Jack, as we walked towards our vehicles. “I’ve never encountered so many rumors before. Perhaps Bremen like to gossip and stir things up.”

Bremen didn’t strike me as gossips with the way they used so few words. “Who knows? I’ll talk to Hayden before I head back. Perhaps he can enlighten us.”

Jack got in his vehicle and took off, and I called Inspector Hayden. “More rumors today, Thomas. Apparently, the competition is moving to another planet. Have you heard anything?”

“Rumors are flying, but that wasn’t one of them. Let me check with the higher ups. They find out everything first. Now, any progress on the case?”

“We’ve solved the mystery of the melted bowling balls. Evidently a Rheinon wanted to throw suspicion on humans by destroying a bunch of balls, but leaving the human ones intact. The perpetrator was actually Ugon E. Smat, a bowling official.”

“Good work. That will give me a little leverage when dealing with some of the politicians. But a bowling official? Why on earth would he want to do something like that?”

Why indeed. “Ugon confessed immediately when I asked if he’d melted the bowling balls. So my ambassador sidekick has taken Ugon to the Rheinon embassy under police guard. He’s going to get all the diplomats and authorities involved to determine how to proceed, so you should soon be hearing from someone.”

Thomas sighed. “Oh, my.” He rubbed his forehead. “I’m starting to lose more hair.”

“Join the club. As for the murder of Keepe Style, we really don’t know anything more. Jack has talked to the lab and they’re speeding up the testing, but realistically we won’t get the results until tomorrow morning—even with the rush. Anyway, I’m on my way to the office for our after- noon meeting,”

“Okay, I’ll talk to you later.”

I returned to the squad room somewhat early for the conference. So I sat back, closed my eyes, and let what facts I knew about the murder of Keepe Style swirl about in my head.

“Sleeping, Detective?” asked Dino as he settled at the side of my desk.

I opened my eyes. “No, just mulling over the facts.” I noticed Jack at a nearby station.

“This is exciting,” said Dino. “These procedures will give me a greater understanding of police work, and I will be able to incorporate some of the ideas into my ambassadorial duties. So where do we start? Do you have any ideas yet about who killed Keepe Style? What does the medical examiner say? Do you know the medical examiner? Actually, do you know everyone in the police force? How about the various alien races? What do you know about them? Do you want me to give you some information? How about…”

“Slow down, Dino,” I interrupted. “Now tell me what happened with Ugon.” I had never encountered a wordier diplomat.

“The other ambassadors and the local police authority— I guess some of your superiors—are getting together to discuss the situation. I am not to be involved as I am working with you.”

Interesting. “How do you feel about that?” At the moment, I couldn’t read him.

“It is fine with me. I want to be involved with your investigation.”

But did I really want Dino to be involved? “That’s good,” I said. “So why don’t you sit back and make some notes while we go through our normal procedures.”

Dino nodded. He seemed to understand the necessity of staying in the background.

“Listen up, everyone. Let’s get this meeting started. The damaged bowling balls are first. Jack, Ambassador Rare, and I did some dumpster digging last night and discovered a couple of destroyed bowling balls. Jack took the balls to the lab, and they expedited the sampling of blood on one ball. It turns out a bowling official, Ugon E Smat, had left his blood on the ball. Conversing with yesterday’s absent bowling alley employee, we discovered she had given the locker room code to Ugon—she thought he was cute.” Groans filled the room.

“Yes, I know—the silly things people do. Fortunately, Ugon confessed to damaging the bowling balls. His plan was to damage only non-human balls to suggest a human was the culprit. Apparently, not all worlds consider us a beneficial addition to the Alliance.”

Disbelief filled the faces before me. “Does this mean we’ll be having more incidents?” asked Harrison.

“A good question, but who knows? However, a few extra patrols around the bowling facilities and meeting places would be appropriate,” I said. “Harrison, please take care of that.”

“In the future, I’ll have to keep my mouth shut,” he said. Laughter erupted.

“Speaking of keeping your mouths shut—apparently rumors are rampant. Ignoring the one about my pregnancy, there’s a rumor indicating the competition will be moving off planet—because of the murder, of course. Inspector Hay- den is looking into that. In the meantime, if you hear any rumor-like gossip, let me know. We need to keep a handle on the vibes.”

And I had no idea how to do that. Should I elicit the help of our local ambassador? I wondered. “Ambassador, is this something you can help us with?” I asked.

Silence enveloped the squad room.

“What do you mean?” Dino said. He rubbed the top of his bald head.

“Can you keep your ears open for any rumors or activities we should know about? It’s important to learn about any small detail that could contribute to a murder investigation. And with other races involved we may not recognize the clues.”

“I will try. However, please understand that while I continue to be part of your investigation, I am mostly isolated from the other aliens.”

I nodded; I understood Dino’s predicament. “Since the sweep information is just starting to trickle in, let’s discuss the assigned projects from yesterday. Brian, did you find out why the Itlans appeared to be arguing?”

“I talked to numerous Itlans this morning at their hotel, but no one revealed any useful information. Arguing is a pretty vague subject to be questioning someone about, so I’m not sure I asked the right questions.” Brian scratched at his chin.

So that’s where Brian had been this morning. “Everyone, keep the Itlans in the back of your minds. You never know what stray comment may trigger a thought. And for some reason this strikes me as important.” I looked down at my list. “Harrison, did you find out anything about Skitem-Carry being late?”

“I can’t even find Skitem-Carry.” He flung his right hand outwards in disgust, and a few people laughed. “Because today is not a competition day, and because of the murder, a lot of non-bowlers have just disappeared. I’m still searching for him, though.” Harrison clenched his jaw.

Interesting development. “Jack, how are you doing with the trivial subject of alien politics?”

After a moment’s hesitation, Jack smiled. “I wouldn’t dare say alien politics is trivial with Ambassador Rare sitting here. Anyway, I’ve just started my research, and I should have a short report for you tomorrow.”

“Good,” I said. I could only imagine the amount of politics involved with four alien races.

“I will be glad to help Detective Sergeant Naven,” said Dino.

Jack waved a hand at him in assent.

I looked down at my list as I stretched. I had spent too much time on my feet today. “Now let’s start researching some nebulous items. Jack, can you coordinate with the medical staff? See what information you can find out about the various species; even some of their characteristics, and not just physical ones. Brian, I need you to study the schedules for the players and officials. Look for something that doesn’t add up. The rest of you spend time thinking about the case and how our suspects interact. This is a tough job because I’m sure we don’t know all the players yet. Tomorrow morning, I want everyone back here at eight, with lots of ideas. The sweep results should be available by then.” I thought for a moment and then I remembered a subject I’d neglected. “Anyone have any other comments?”

Heads shook. “All right then…keep in mind, we need to ask better questions of our suspects.” I looked down at Brian. His agenda had included Smith. “No one thought to ask Smith about the ‘Closed for Cleaning’ sign. Apparently, he took it down himself. He thought a bowler had been messing with him. I gave him heck about withholding information. Nonetheless, our interrogations need to be more thorough.”

A few sheepish looks appeared around the room.

“Jack, Dino, and I took another look around Revolutions yesterday, and we’ve come up with a couple of issues. Does anyone know why the viewing stands on the third floor haven’t been finished yet?”

The start of the bowling competition neared. To facilitate the crowds expected for the actual competition, stands were being built along the walls on all three floors. Although the viewers on the second floor would be the only ones to actually see the bowling first hand, the action would be piped into the other two floors via large view screens.

Harrison said, “Smith told the construction workers they could only work for two hours each evening because he didn’t want the gamblers disturbed. They were supposed to have finished last night, but we shut down the alley for our investigation.”

“So the stands will be finished tonight?”

“That’s the plan,” said Harrison.

“Awfully close to the wire. I’ll have to speak to Smith about this. Since I’ve been on a leave to bowl with Canada’s team, I haven’t been involved with the recent security arrangements. Who’s currently in charge?”

“That would be Inspector Hayden,” said Brian.

“Okay. I’ll have to have a little chat with him.” I reached under my desk and grabbed a small insulated bag— about a foot square. “Does anyone know who owns this bag?” I waved it about.

“What’s in it?” asked Harrison.

“A couple of metal bottles and a few soft packages.” I opened the bag and held up the pieces.

“I know,” said Dino.

I had not expected Dino to respond to my question.

“This is a personal Rheinon beverage sack. I would have to check the bottles, but I would guess they contain chirtle.”

“Chirtle?” I said.

“Much like your coffee drink, except this drink is best served chilled.”

His comment confirmed my suspicions. “Okay, but this sack has brought up a problem. Does anyone know what I’m referring to?”

Harrison said, “Realistically, I think you’re referring to bombs and metal detectors.”

“You’re correct, Harrison. Ambassador, do we need to be concerned about disgruntled beings trying to sneak a bomb into one of the bowling alleys?”

Dino didn’t reply.

“Dino?” I asked again.

“I have no reason to think so because our worlds do not use explosive devices.”

I found his assertion hard to believe. “Okay, I’ll talk to Inspector Hayden about this, too.” I sighed. “That’s enough for today. Finally, if anyone is interested, I have a previously scheduled board game meet a little later this evening. Since we’re still waiting for results, I’ve decided to go ahead with it. Feel free to join me at home. We can continue to brainstorm then, although, only amongst ourselves.”

“Tari, what do you want me to do?” asked Dino, after everyone had settled back to work.

I decided to be tolerant; he had kept quiet for quite a time. “From your ambassadorial point of view, I need you to enlighten me on all the ramifications of multi-species contact. I’m going to need your perspective on the politics involved. For example, why are we not welcomed everywhere? How do the races react to each other? Information such as that. So keep sending me reports on anything you think of. You are the perfect person for the job.”

Dino beamed—at least I thought his face projected happiness.

“I can do that; I will start immediately. Tell me about this board game night. What are board games? Are they games you play in groups, or individually? Are there only a few kinds, or many? Can anyone play? What do you need to play these games? Do you…”

I had to make him stop. “Dino, why don’t you come over tonight, and we can teach you everything you need to know about board games?”

Oh, no…what have I done? I asked myself as Dino said his goodbyes and left. Now I would have to listen to his babbling all evening.

My com rang and I answered. “I’ve checked out your rumor about moving the competition,” said the inspector. “There’s a slight chance that’ll happen, but the IBC is currently taking a wait-and-see attitude. It’ll depend on whether we have further incidents.”

“I’ll drink to that.” I shrugged my shoulders. “On that note, Thomas, we need to talk about security.”

And that’s what we did for the next few moments. In the end, the inspector agreed with additional security around the viewing stands. He had grave concerns about introducing metal detectors. He didn’t want Earth to be portrayed as a violent destination for tourists. I didn’t entirely agree, but I let it go. Finally, I said, “If you’re interested, Thomas, we have a meeting tomorrow morning in the squad room.”

“Thanks for letting me know, but I may not make it. I have numerous problems to solve right now.”

Wasn’t that the truth! After I pursued my thoughts for a few moments, I said, so everyone remaining could hear, “Do we have any viable suspects for Keepe Style’s murder?”

“The only one, really, is Ugon, since he melted the bowling balls,” said Jack. “As of yet, we can’t associate anyone with the bathroom.”

“And the lab results will probably point to everyone, at least the males.” I sighed. “Brian, please get hold of Ambassador Rare and ask him to bring Ugon along tonight. Make up some story about letting him see how humans socialize, or something.”

“Will do.”

I hoped Ugon might let something slip in a different setting.

I took a few moments to call Mom but it went right to voicemail, so I buried myself in research. After a couple of hours, I looked up to see only Jack remaining in the squad room. Time had flown by.

“Do you consider the day productive?” he asked.

“Actually, yes. We solved the issue of the melted bowling balls.”

“You haven’t solved the murder of Keepe Style though.”

I haven’t solved? “Way too early for that. We won’t have the sweep results back until tomorrow, as you know.”

“Then tomorrow should be a good day, and you can go back to being a bowler. Goodnight.”

Jack left the room, and I started to think about his implications. Perhaps, he just wanted to go back to the Vancouver detachment. My temper started to rise, so I went home.

“I tried to call,” I said, after I got through the front door and saw Mom in the living room.

“I just got off the com again with the vet. He said it was touch and go for a while. He’s keeping Maori sedated, and will call us in the morning. I keep thinking about the poor thing lying there.” Mom had tears in her eyes. Although Maori had originally been my dog, my mother had become just as attached to her after we moved in.

“Let’s have a drink,” I said. “We’ve had a couple of exhausting days.”

On the couch, we sipped some wine. “Oh, by the way, I have a game night tonight—in an hour or so.”

“Is that wise, in the middle of your murder case?” Mom loved to give her opinions—especially in regards to anything involving the RCMP. Besides, it took her mind off Maori.

“We’re still waiting for the physical results from the lab, so there’s not much more we can do tonight. Do you want to join us? One of the alien ambassadors will be showing up—in fact, my sidekick.”

“I’ll stick around for a while to watch. You know I don’t like playing games.”

And board games were her least favorite. I thought perhaps her dislike of games resulted from losing her husband in a vehicular accident and having to bring up a very young child alone while working a stressful full-time job. But who knows. I had learned a lot of psychology on the job but relating to one’s own life often proved difficult.

Evenings and weekends during my childhood had been filled with educational and athletic activities—nothing fantastical. We never played games. I discovered games in bookstores where I satisfied my need to read mysteries and speculative fiction. One particular bookstore had open copies of games and a table area for playing. After a bookstore employee showed a couple of us how to play a board game, I became addicted. And now I keep buying them—old and new.

Mom and I puttered for a short time cleaning up. Then she left to have a rest. In her seventies, she needed the odd nap, but the necessity annoyed her.

Around seven, my guests started to arrive. The first ones were some of my personal friends, like my best friend Chrissy, and then Harrison and Jack arrived together. And, much to my surprise, Dino and Ugon showed up with an Itlan guest.

“Detective Sergeant Dominion, this is Ambassador Takka. I ran into him earlier and, while we were discussing the ramifications of the murder, I mentioned your game night. I hope you do not mind I brought him along. We are trying to learn all we can about humans. You are such a fascinating species.” Dino’s grin was wide.

“Welcome, Ambassador Takka,” I said. “Hopefully, both of you will enjoy the evening.”

Although Itlans were rumored to be excitable, my first impression of Ambassador Takka proved the contrary. Perhaps that could be explained by his duties. I hadn’t spent much time with Itlans, as they like to spend their off-times on their houseboat, away from everyone else. One thing, though, the lopsidedness of their eleven fingers distracted me.

The other guests were gathered around the munchies table, getting drinks and food. I made introductions.

“Ambassadors, may I offer you something to drink or eat? Although, I’m not sure what you can tolerate.” I should have thought the situation through more thoroughly after I’d invited Dino.

“Speaking for both of us, about the only human item we can tolerate is water. We ate previously so we have no need for food,” said Dino.

As I gathered a couple glasses of water, the front door opened and Smith entered. Smith knew I always left the door unlocked on game nights. I didn’t remember inviting him, but perhaps I’d mentioned it casually. Nonetheless, he was, more or less, welcome.

“Hi, everyone. Tari, I brought some food. I even took a chance and brought some alien items.” Smith walked over to the food table and deposited a few items. Curiosity made me take a look.

“No human will get sick from them, but you also won’t get any nutrition,” he said.

“Thanks for bringing the food. We do have alien guests tonight. And we have human food, so we’re well supplied.”

I never thought I would be uttering phrases such as alien food and human food.

“Let us see what you have brought,” said Dino. He and Takka conferred with Smith. Apparently, all was well. They walked back to the game table.

Our formal dining area had morphed into a game room, almost without us noticing. A dining table served as our large gaming table. Along with the large table, there were a couple of smaller ones set against one wall.

“Dino, why don’t you and Ugon and Ambassador Takka join me here at the big table? Smith, Harrison, Jack?” I had been surprised when Jack showed up. The evening should prove interesting.

After everyone took their places, I noticed Mom pulling up a chair so she could observe. She really didn’t like to play, but she did find the interpersonal reactions fascinating.

“Detective Sergeant, what is the purpose of playing games? I tried to do some research, but my database did not have much information. We do not have anything similar in our society,” said Takka. “At least, I do not think so.”

Jack started to answer until he noticed Takka looking at me.

“Call me Tari, ambassador. Your question is an excellent one. Basically, gaming is a social activity with a component of competition. I’m sure you understand competition from bowling; this is just a lot less serious. Players do like to win, but mostly we’re here to have fun and socialize.”

“How many different games are there? And you said board games; what does that mean? How many players can you have? Does everyone start equal? How about…”

My mother interrupted Dino. “A board game is simply a game that uses a board. Tari will explain the rules and pieces and give you an example of how to execute a turn. Every game has different rules.”

Noticing the look on Dino’s face, I recognized I hadn’t introduced Mom.

“Ambassador Dino A Rare and Ambassador Takka, this is my mother, Tracy Dominion. She is a retired RCMP assistant commissioner.”

With bright eyes, Dino and Takka stood and approached Mom. I held my breath but she had done her research and touched their outstretched hands with grace.

“Let me explain a few things, and then we’ll start. Ambassador Takka, you don’t have games like this, but how about you, Dino?” We had already laid out Ticket to Ride.

“No. It looks strange and complicated.”

“Don’t worry; it’s straightforward.” I bet they did have games, though they probably didn’t recognize them as such.

We had the North American version of the old board game, recently reprinted. I pointed out the board and basic playing pieces to the aliens.

“So I understand the destination cards. You need to complete the routes across the board to get points,” said Dino. “And I understand the train cards you need to collect so you can claim parts of the route. What I do not understand is why these actions are necessary?”

“Simply put, the player with the most points wins the game. Points are awarded when you complete a city-to-city route, and additional points are collected at the end of the game when you show your completed destination cards. The game comes to an end when someone is down to their last two or fewer little trains.”

“This reminds me of something on Rheine,” said Dino.

“What?” I asked.

“I will tell you later,” said Dino.

I wondered why he was putting off giving me the information until Takka grabbed my attention. “This looks like a simple game,” he said. “Where is the challenge?”

“The challenge is picking the right destination cards and gathering the necessary train cards. Of course, there’s always someone who’ll try and stop you by being sneaky, but that’s kind of hard to explain.”

“I do not see any strategy. Let us begin,” said Takka.

Takka was going to learn quite a bit about humans and how they played games, I thought.

Since this version of Ticket to Ride allowed two-to-six players, I sat between Takka and Dino to offer them advice and remind them of the rules.

We played for a while and the various players’ strategies became obvious—at least for those who had previously played the game. Dino amused and fascinated me, as I watched him study the players. To give him credit, his intelligence showed, but understanding the game from a human perspective was a leap. Though, by the end of the game, he had a noticeably good grasp.

“Tari, it took me a while but I have figured out some of the strategies.” Pointing at Jack, Dino said, “He likes to stop people from completing their destination cards. He must have memorized them all.” He waved an appendage at Smith. “And he likes to run faster.”

“What do you mean by run faster?” I asked.

“He likes the long city-to-city routes—the ones with the most points.”

“Ah, yes. I see what you’re saying.”

“But how would you describe Harrison’s strategy? I could not figure out what he was doing,” said Dino.

Harrison laughed. “I like to go for the longest rail line— nothing very complicated. And, most times, my method matches up with my destination cards.”

Dino said, “Simple but effective.”

“What were you going for?” Harrison asked Dino, before I had a chance to.

“I was going for an interesting pattern of rail routes. Rheinon always look for patterns. For example, I have been checking out the tables—looking for seating patterns. However, I could not see any. Seating patterns are important to us. Do humans have any interest in them?”

“Not really. Friends, or relatives, may sit together, but that’s about it. Although there is the odd game where you may not want to sit beside a certain person because you know how they usually play. For example, there is a game that has cards that let you skip the next person so they can- not play that turn. In that case, we might arrange tables or seating randomly,” I said.

Dino’s comment had triggered a question in my mind. “Ambassador Rare, what other patterns do Rheinon look for?”

“Oh, many types—speech, body language…even personal habit. For example, many idiosyncrasies became obvious—even to me—in this structured game. Jack always makes a noise with his throat before choosing his train cards; Harrison continually checks his destination cards; and Smith studies the players to see if he can spot any clues from their behavior.”

“You’re right—very astute,” I said. It shouldn’t have surprised me to find a diplomat being observant.

I had watched Smith as he played Ticket to Ride. Tonight his approach to the game consisted of watching the aliens’ actions and not interfering with them in any way. It struck me that Smith was more conservative and conventional than I had previously imagined. Even his clothing exuded a certain dullness.

My shoulders slumped as I now understood the reason for our breakup. I reproached myself for considering Smith boring, but there it was. Even his gray clothes looked flat. A revelation, but not one that made me happy.

I brought my thoughts back to the present.

Two Rheinon security guards had accompanied Ugon, since his house arrest still existed.

I’d watched him play Ticket to Ride, and noticed he asked no questions and said nothing. In fact, he hadn’t said a word since he arrived.

“Ugon, what do you think about this game?” I asked.

He glanced at Dino and then said, “I do not like games. They are war-like. Rheine does not have wars.”

“Never?” I found that hard to believe.

“Never on Rheine,” said Ugon.

What is he implying? I wondered. I would have to ask Dino later.

“Would you like…”

Ugon interrupted me. “I wish to leave.”

I glanced at Dino, and he gestured to the two Rheinon guards.

While Ugon and the guards took their leave, I pondered what had just happened. Had an important detail of Rheine been revealed? Too many alien worlds, too much history….

I needed to get back to the present. “Ambassador Takka, did you enjoy the game?”

“I thought it was eminently simple and straightforward. There were no conspiracies or coalitions. Do you have any other games? May I touch your face?”

All activity ceased. His question had come out of nowhere.

I glanced at Dino and he appeared to nod.

“Certainly,” I said. Although, I was not the least bit certain.

I held as still as possible, while Takka raised one hand and gently touched my face for a second. I noticed a faint hint of a vanilla-like fragrance from his hand.

The silence in the room continued while I thought about what to say. “Why did you want to do that?”

“Your skin is unusual. Although we come from a water world much like yours, our skin covering is thick. This is the closest I have ever been to humans.”

Dino broke the ensuing silence. “Now I know why your name sounded familiar, Assistant Commissioner Dominion. You are the person who discovered the BRIT observation post on your moon.”

“Actually, Tari helped but you are correct, the Canadian police force, the RCMP, had discovered some anomalies. And because of that, we found your listening post.”

“Assistant Commissioner Dominion, you are famous,” said Dino. “No other world has uncovered our presence before we approached them.”

A surge of pride infused me, however I needed to change the subject.

“Why don’t we have a quick break for some food and drink? I need to stand up for a bit.”

While most of the players approached the food table, Chrissy waved me over to her corner of the room.

“I love your game nights! They’re just like bowling.”

I had no idea how she came to that conclusion, but I knew she loved board games.

Chrissy continued, “Something I forgot to mention this morning—those bowling officials talk to everyone. Aren’t they supposed to be unbiased or something?”

I sighed. Chrissy liked to play ditzy, and it came naturally to her. “Who are you referring to?” Chrissy was my best female friend, but her conclusions could sometimes be irritating.

“Oh, that Rheinon security guy was talking to Ugon yesterday.”

“Since they’re both from Rheine, I imagine that’s okay. So you’re on a first name basis with Ugon?”

“He chatted me up a few times. Ugon seems like a nice guy.”

“You do know Ugon is the one who melted the bowling balls?” I said, thinking perhaps Ugon had chatted up Chrissy to try and get the code to the locker room?

Chrissy’s mouth opened but she made no sound.

I continued, “Yes, he admitted it. And you won’t see him around anymore. He was just here tonight so I could see how he reacted in a social situation.” And perhaps let slip something about Keepe Style, but Chrissy didn’t need to know that piece of information.

“Now let’s grab some food and start another game.” I didn’t want to further discuss Ugon.

At the food table, I said, “Ambassador Takka, how about a game of Settlers of Catan? There are strategies to placing your tokens, building items such as roads and houses, and going for the longest road. And the board is set up randomly.”

“That sounds similar to Ticket to Ride.”

“Perhaps a little, but you also need to trade for resources with your opponents—or your allies—and stop your opponents. There’s a lot of diplomacy involved—let alone coalitions. Want to give it a try?”

Both ambassadors nodded—at least I thought they did.

While we were setting up the game, Mom left to answer her com.

I looked up when she returned—her face had lost color. “That was the vet. Things are touch and go right now with Maori. He suggested we go down to the clinic.”

After getting everyone’s attention, I said, “Guys, Mom and I need to go to the veterinary clinic—we have an emergency with our dog. Please stay and play. Ambassadors, you are welcome to stay, of course.”

I looked at Smith.

“I’ll lock up when we finish,” he said.

I glanced around the room. “Thanks, everyone, I appreciate your understanding.”

With heavy hearts, Mom and I left for the clinic.