“And lose plenty of our money,” grumbled Henry. “Well, it won’t work this time. I’ve got a way to beat the house, and the Fat Chance is going to be the proving ground for my system!”
“That’s the spirit,” said a new voice. The crowd of tourists turned and saw an enthusiastic young man dressed in a Legion officer’s uniform. He was slim and energetic, with a smile that radiated sincerity. “If there’s one casino on Lorelei to test a system at, this is the one! For starters, we won’t throw you out if you start winning with it, the way some other houses will.”
“Captain Jester!” said the casino employee.
“I was just on my way back to the office from a lunch date,” said the smiling figure. “Heard this guest’s comment and thought I’d made sure he knew our policy. Carry on, Miss Shadwell, I’m sure you’re doing a fine job.” He turned to the guests and said, “Welcome to the Fat Chance. If there’s any trouble, my office door is always open.” He smiled, sketched a bow, and hurried off.
“That’s Willard Phule,” said one guest to a neighbor, a discreet hand muffling his words. “The munitions heir-richer than the mint, and cleaning up at the casino business, too, I hear.”
“What’s with the uniform?” said the other.
“Oh, he’s gone and joined the Space Legion,” said the first man with a chuckle. “I hear tell the Legion will never be the same.”
“That’s the truth,” said Miss Shadwell, smiling. “Nor will the Fat Chance Casino-as you’ll see when you get to the tables. Now, if there’s anyone who’d like to take advantage of our express registration, I’ll take your information here…” She pulled out a pocket computer and smiled. The tourists obediently got in line, smiling back at her.