RP: 1/26/99 -- Bt Opening (with a couple more scenes)

[Zami Wahye <wahye@yahoo.com>]

_________________________________________________________
DO YOU YAHOO!?
Get your free @yahoo.com address at http://mail.yahoo.com
Congressional Circle -- Northeast District (Kaitain)(#201Rnt)

Spierson scowls darkly around at the others gathering in front of the 
  vestibule before extracting a tiny metal timepiece from an inside 
  pocket and squinting at that for a moment. He closes it with a sharp 
  snap and returns it to its pocket.

Iason drops into a dancer's bow as he spots you both, nodding a little.

Marhut stands to his post before the doorway. His eyes stare blankly out 
  towards the street.

Marius comes from the Central Plaza.
Marius has arrived.

Spierson manages a stiff half-bow, though his faint scowl lingers.

Iason straightens from his bow to the others, inclining his head to 
  Marius.

Marius nods politely to the guildsman and walks over to stand near 
  Iason.

Marhut stands at attention by the doorway. His eyes scan slowly across 
  as if trailing any movement of the people before him.


Marhut lifts his arm and scratches his bald head, a dry chaffing sound.

Fredhrick comes from the Central Plaza.
Fredhrick has arrived.
Fredhrick enters, surrounded by 10 Sardaukar soldiers. Apparent is the 
  tell-tale shimmer of a shield at its maximum setting surrounding the 
  Emperor.

Iason pivts, then drops to his knees to kowtow to the arriving Emperor.

Marhut bows his head low towards the approaching Emperor.

Spierson eyes the Emperor before executing a careful, though stiff, bow.
 
Marius kneels.

The Emperor walks alone tonight, though one can be quite sure that 
  noukkers and other Imperial troops are quietly scatterd throughout the 
  gathering. "Rise my subjects."

Iason smoothly comes to his feet, first raising knees, then his body.

Spierson straightens at the imperial decree.

Marius rises in a slow, yet fluid motion, and coughs once.

Govindha walks in from Vestibule through the Archway.
Govindha has arrived.

Yashpal walks in from Vestibule through the Archway.
Yashpal has arrived.

Marhut raises from his bowed position, only to go down again and step 
  back as someone emerges from the doorway.

Yashpal falls down on his knees and kowtows.

Spierson glances casually about before removing a tiny metal tin from 
  his jacket. With a pop it opens and he fishes out a bright green 
  lozenge, which he places carefully between his gum and cheek. In a 
  moment, the harsher lines of his face relax and a half-smile appears 
  on his face.

Fredhrick waves a hand idly to Yashpal, as one might dismiss a servant. 
  "Do stand up. We find it hard to talk to those who are bowed."

Yashpal rises slowly, keeping his eyes averted. "Your Sublime and 
  Incandescently Radiant Majesty's grace is boundless..."

The doors of the Monasterium open, slowly, revealing two figures in 
  robes. The taller of the very short men looks anxiously around the 
  crowd, looking for certain faces. His eyes widen as he spots His 
  Imperial Majesty, and he drops quickly to the ground in a full kowtow. 
  "Your Majesty!" he says into the ground. "I did not expect your 
  Presence here before us tonight!"

Sha'ara'diin comes from the Central Plaza.
Sha'ara'diin has arrived.

Ivanova comes from the Central Plaza.
Ivanova has arrived.

Sarina comes from the Central Plaza.
Sarina has arrived.

Iason slowly straightens.

"Yes, we know," Fredhrick responds to the bowed man's statements. "We do 
  find it useful to surprise our subjects now and then. It keeps us from 
  becoming too predictable."

Filarion comes from the Central Plaza.
Filarion has arrived.

Zhia comes from the Central Plaza.
Zhia has arrived.

Lita comes from the Central Plaza.
Lita has arrived.

Again spying the Sublime Highness, Ssha'ara'diin once again begins a 
  graceful genuflection.

Marhut moves into step behind the two short men. His height making him 
  the shortest of the three.

Iason turns a bit on one heel to bow to the newcomers.

At Sha'ara'diin's arm, Ivanova does the same, lowering into a curtsy 
  towards the Emperor.

Filarion slowly walks down the street, followed by Lita, bowing low as 
  notices the emperor. Lita is forced to do the same.

Sarina curtsies deeply to the Emperor and the others present, keeping 
  her eyes low.

Zhia, following in Ivanova's steps lowers into a bow towards the Emperor 
  and all others present.

Govindha trembles as he stands. Under his breath, he murmurs, "Oh dear, 
  oh dear, oh dear, oh..." He raises he voice so as to be heard: "I must 
  offer, in advance, innumerable apologies to Your Majesty and all Your 
  Majesty's ancestors and descendents: Our humble home here on Kaitain 
  is not yet... Well, it is not... Why, we haven't prepared for a 
  Presence as Beautifully and Indubitally Great as... Your Majest will 
  find our humble home here very... humble..." He adjusts his robes 
  nervously, beads of sweat forming on his bald crown.

Fredhrick gives a slight, almost unnoticable sigh. "Everyone stand up. 
  Those of you who have already done so at least once need not bow again 
  tonight."

Yashpal sweeps into a brief but elegant bow to those newly arrived, a 
  broad smile upon his face.

Kristianna comes from the Central Plaza.
Kristianna has arrived.

Ivanova raises once again and turns her head towards Zhia to whisper 
  something.

Ivanova mutters to Zhia, "... Harkonnen this... not... after... night."

Sarina tries to keep her curiousity in check as she glances around, 
  looking at the people near her.

Yashpal nods, his face suddenly grave.

Lita stands quietly, obviously impressed by all those people, her gaze 
  occasionally locking on Govindha.

Zhia nods her head after lending an ear to Ivanova.

"Fear not," the Emperor smiles to the apologizing Tleilax, "We have 
  shown up unnannounced, and therefor do not expect that you would have 
  the same level of preparedness as you would had you know we would be 
  arriving."

Iason scans the crowd silently, his attention flitting all over the 
  place.

Govindha turns to Abbot Yashpal, and murmurs something in his ear. He 
  shoos him back into the monastery with a quiet but frantic command.

Marius gazes fixedly at Govindha, his left eyebrow raised high on his 
  brow.

Kristianna walks into the Congressional Circle, head held high. Her eyes 
  scan until they fall onto the Emperor. Immediately, she drops a deep 
  courtsey.

Yashpal bows once more as he exits into the monastery.

Yashpal walks to the east and passes through the Archway.
Yashpal has left.

Filarion shifts uneasily at his place, scanning the crowds as well, 
  somehow mimicking Lita who stands besides him.

Govindha notes Kristianna's entrance and motions for her to follow the 
  Abbot into the Vestibule.

Fredhrick is facing the entrance to the Monastarium speaking with 
  Govindha, and as such does not see Kristianna's arrival until she's 
  motioned into the building.

Sha'ara'diin stands silently to the side with his retinue of lovely 
  Ladies, his eyes quietly drinking in the crowds, as if filing the 
  spectacle away for later ponderance. He turns to feelow Siridari and 
  asks her, "So has my Lady long been on Kaitain? I must admit me these 
  sights are all new to us Bajazet."

Kristianna rises from her courtsey, eyes automatically glancing toward 
  Govindha. She smiles almost imperceptibly as she rises from her 
  courtsey and follows the motion of his nod toward the Vestibule. She 
  nods, and walks in that direction, scarcely noticing any others' 
  presence.

Kristianna walks to the east and passes through the Archway.
Kristianna has left.

Sarina turns her head, eyes studying Ivanova as she awaits the response 
  to Sha'ars question.

Govindha wipes the sweat out of his eyes and speaks again. "A thousand 
  thousand most gracious thanks to Your Wise and Loving Majesty; Your 
  Majesty's infinite Grace does keep the celestial spheres in line! 
  Please do be so kind, all, as to be following my person into our new 
  Monasterium, great though it may be not nearly so great as to not be 
  humbled by the Presence of His Majesty." He breathes deeply, bows in 
  the Tleilaxu manner, and passes the Archway.

Govindha walks to the east and passes through the Archway.
Govindha has left.

"For some time now Baron..." Ivanova's voice trails off. She lets out a 
  light sigh, "I am sure that the Bajazet will enjoy their time here on 
  Kaitain. If there is anything our households can do for one another... 
  please do not hesistate to ask."

Filarion shrugs, looking around a bit, not following the invitation for 
  now.

Marhut bows his head towards each of the guest and begins to wave his 
  hand inward, inviting all to follow his Master.

Fredhrick instinctively reaches a hand down to his belt, ensuring that 
  the shield generator is in-place and secured.

Kalador comes from the Central Plaza.
Kalador has arrived.

"We would be most please to have My Lady visit us at the Embassy one 
  day, would we not Sarina dear?" the Baron states.

Fredhrick walks to the east and passes through the Archway.
Fredhrick has left.

Kalador skuffles in, attempting to spot his Baron.

Sarina nods, her eyes still taking in Ivanova, "Yes, indeed, company is 
  always welcome."

Filarion glances over to the other nobles, giving a slight bow before he 
  heads out of the area.
Filarion passes the Rue Albans.
Filarion has left.

Lita blinks and quickly follows Filarion, not having expected to leave 
  just /now/.

Spierson walks to the east and passes through the Archway.
Spierson has left.

Lita passes the Rue Albans.
Lita has left.

Kalador stops several steps behins Sah'ara'diin lowering hs head until 
  addressed.

Leaning slightly forward so that Ivanova might adress lady and Baron, 
  "We would enjoy that greatly and thank your Household for such 
  hospitality so soon after your arrival." She pauses and then inquires, 
  "Tell me... does the Baron still keep horses?"

Cuanu comes from the Central Plaza.
Cuanu has arrived.

With a wave of his hand, The Bajazet summons the Visier forawrd to join 
  them, then asks his companion, "Shall we go in then?"

Marhut leans his head forward, almost impatiently, as he beckons the 
  last few into the complex. His eyes turn backwards every couple of 
  seconds towards the doorway, as if expecting something.

Kalador takes several quick steps forward falling in behind 
  Sha'ara'diin.

Zhia bows gracefully to all around her quickly adding in, "I'm sorry, 
  but you must excuse me." and quickly turns on one heel exiting.

Zhia passes the Rue Albans.
Zhia has left.

Sarina nods slightly, "After you, My Lord."

Marius relaxes slightly, his eyebrow drifting firmly back into place.

Still remaining close at his sister's side, the Baron begins to gently 
  lead Lady Rastanyev forward into the Monestary.

Sha'ara'diin walks to the east and passes through the Archway.
Sha'ara'diin has left.

Iason waits for his betters to enter.

Cuanu hurries along the street, his eyes seeking for someone. As he 
  passes the nobles he stops, offering a slight bow. "Good day, My Baron 
  Bajazet, My Lady Rastanyev."

Ivanova walks to the east and passes through the Archway.
Ivanova has left.

Sarina walks to the east and passes through the Archway.
Sarina has left.

Kalador follows behind Sha'ara'diin, his cane clicking in rythum.

Marhut continues his bowing towards those who enter, beckoning them 
  forward.

Cuanu nods, signing he will come in a few minutes, catching for breath a 
  bit.

Marhut nods his head to Cuanu and moves on to the next person to summon 
  them forward.

Kalador walks to the east and passes through the Archway.
Kalador has left.

Praxton comes from the Central Plaza.
Praxton has arrived.

Marhut moves on, ushering the last of the people forward into the 
  building.

Iason bows as his Duke steps in, dropping into line behind him.

Marius bows to his Duke and joins his train.

Cuanu bows slightly as the Duke Atreides passes.

Praxton greets his retainers with a genteel nod of his head. 
  "Gentlemen," he says, "shall we? I believe we're expected." He nudges 
  his cart towards the Monasterium.

Cuanu now trails into the building as well, careful not to look like an 
  Atreides member.

Cuanu walks to the east and passes through the Archway.
Cuanu has left.

Iason bows his head a bit, dipping once. "After you, my Duke."

Praxton walks to the east and passes through the Archway.
Praxton has left.

Marius walks to the east and passes through the Archway.
Marius has left.

Iason walks to the east and passes through the Archway.
Iason has left.

Vestibule -- Monasterium Tleilaxu (Kaitain)(#1734RntJ)

Fredhrick walks in from Congressional Circle through the Archway.
Fredhrick has arrived.

Fredhrick enters, surrounded by 10 Sardaukar soldiers. Apparent is the
  tell-tale shimmer of a shield at its maximum setting surrounding the
  Emperor.

Spierson walks in from Congressional Circle through the Archway.
Spierson has arrived.

Sha'ara'diin walks in from Congressional Circle through the Archway.
Sha'ara'diin has arrived.

Spierson runs an absent finger over the case nearest him and leans in to
  examine its contents more carefully.

Fredhrick steps in just behind Govindha and looks around the vestibule
  itself. "The design is very interesting, High Master. Do all Tleilaxu
  facilities employ the same style?"

Ivanova walks in from Congressional Circle through the Archway.
Ivanova has arrived.

Sarina walks in from Congressional Circle through the Archway.
Sarina has arrived.

Sha'ara'diin escorts the Lady Rastanyev into the room, his features
  flickering a bit in distate at the decor of the vestibule, He remains 
  a carefull distance away from the Divine Presense, prefering to remain
  unoticed for the time being.

Kristianna turns as others enter the vestibule. She courtseys once again
  as Fredhrick enters, casting a sidelong glance at Govindha. At his 
  nod, she rises.

Sarina glances around, her face carefully schooled into a blank
  expression, not reacting to the sights.

Govindha, more comfortable now in familiar surroundings, regains his
  composure. Putting on his best tour-guide voice, he intones, "Welcome,
  all, to the Monasterium Tleilaxu, a quiet community of worship and
  scholarship, the new center of the Tleilaxu religion on Kaitain, and
  your source for the best bargains on our Unique and Inimitable 
  Biological,  Zoological, and Anthropological Novelties." He turns to 
  face the Emperor.

"Ahh, no, Your Unique and Inimitable Majesty. The buildings on Tleilax
  are infinitly more intesting. And larger, yes, much larger. If only 
  Your Majesty could take a trip to our lovely planet and see them, 
  but...er...Your Majesty wouldn't like the climate. Terribly dry."

"Most... curious design, is it not Baron." Ivanova inquires in a quiet
  voice.  Her eyes wander the walls, as if they do not notice his 
  reaction and instead are trying to force him to verbalize it.

Sha'ara'diin leans in to the group he is with and murmurs softly, his
  voice not carrying beyond his compatriots, "Most distasteful here,
  Tleilaxu abominations everywhere." his eyes dart from side to side,
  resting occasionally on the odd Head Master.

Spierson affords Sarina a brief nod as he notices her glance in his
  direction.

Kalador walks in from Congressional Circle through the Archway.
Kalador has arrived.

Govindha, his sensitive ears ringing, walks swiftly over to the Bazajet.
  "Oh, no, good Baron! Wait until you enter the Basilica itself; there 
  are far more abominations there! I'm sure you'll find something to 
  your taste."

Ivanova's eyes look down upon the curious, small man as he approaches. A
  smile plays upon her lips at his challenge.

Sha'ara'diin's eye show no recognition of the address, as if the man's
  embarrassing eavesdropping could be shrugged off by ignoring it.

Sarina bites at her lip, holding her tongue, though in general, her face
  remains expressionless, studying the man standing before her and her
  brother.

Kalador remains silent, always a few steps behind Sha'ara'diin, his eyes
  moving from person to person, taking in their expresions casually.

Kristianna passively surveys the room and the people therein. One hand
  absently strokes the opposite upper arm.

Fredhrick chuckles softly at the High Master's remark. "Indeed,
  Tleilaxu. Perhaps you would care to show us these abominations."

Govindha scuttles around the room, making small talk and issuing orders
  to monks-in-waiting. After several moments, he announces, "Please to
  follow me into the Basilica; there will be a time for sight-seeing 
  after the meal!"

Yashpal walks in from St. Maledict's Basilica through the Trefoil Arch.
Yashpal has arrived.

Yashpal bows deeply as he enters the room, sidling up to Govindha.

Sha'ara'diin scowls slightly, his brows creasing slightly, he glances at
  his sister a long moment, as if measuring up her physical state
  carefully. As for the comment, the Baron simply chooses to ignore 
  their existence, nothing more then mere air upon the winds...

Kristianna harks to the sound of Govindha's voice, and moves swiftly and
  smoothly towards the Basilica. She waits there.

Govindha steps under the arch and gestures toward the interior of the
  Basilica, attempting to herd the Landsraad types deeper into the
  Monastery.

Sarina nods slightly to her brother, smiling bravely, "I am well, do not
  concern yourself with me."

Yashpal mutters to you, "All is ready, Revered Master..."

Yashpal hustles about, his round face set in an expression of concern.
  He thrusts some odd looking charts in a nearby draw as he turns to bow
  deeply once more in your direction.

Cuanu walks in from Congressional Circle through the Archway.
Cuanu has arrived.

Yashpal wipes some sweat from his forehead and recomposes himself.

Fredhrick walks to the north and passes through the Trefoil Arch.
Fredhrick has left.

Spierson walks to the north and passes through the Trefoil Arch.
Spierson has left.

Praxton walks in from Congressional Circle through the Archway.
Praxton has arrived.

Kristianna courtseys as the Emperor passes into the Basilica.
Kristianna walks to the north and passes through the Trefoil Arch.
Kristianna has left.

Marius walks in from Congressional Circle through the Archway.
Marius has arrived.

Iason walks in from Congressional Circle through the Archway.
Iason has arrived.

Yashpal walks to the north and passes through the Trefoil Arch.
Yashpal has left.

"Shall we Baron? It wouldn't do to let such a challenge go without some
  sort of... investigation." Ivanova smiles lightly up at the Baron.

Sha'ara'diin turns again to his companions, steeling himself for the
  most certainly distasteful meal that awaits them all, suddenly his 
  eyes spy the Duke, and he sweeps into a low bow.

Cuanu shakes his head as he sees that the emperor just left and takes
  his time to give slight bows and studying his surroundings,

Marius enters as part of the Atreides train.

Kalador remains quiet simply nodding to the Baron as he eyes pass over 
  him.

Marhut enters through the Archway. He strains slightly on his tippy-toes 
  as he tries to catch Govindha's eye.

Sarina curtsies as the Duke enters, and then looks to her brother, 
  waiting for him to follow the others.

Govindha bows to the Red Duke as he enters. "Ahh, Duke Atreides! I was 
  so concerned that you might not make it; traffic is indeed bad in this 
  part of the city! Please to follow us into the basilica; the 
  festivities are about to begin to commence!"

Govindha walks to the north and passes through the Trefoil Arch.
Govindha has left.

Cuanu makes his way through the area, heading into the direction 
  declared Basilica as it is mentioned.

Cuanu walks to the north and passes through the Trefoil Arch.
Cuanu has left.

Praxton glances sidelong at Iason, then at Marius, his expression barely 
  masking a deep-seated suspicion.

Marius looks helplessly at Praxton, mouthing the words "more data."

Praxton walks to the north and passes through the Trefoil Arch.
Praxton has left.

Marius walks to the north and passes through the Trefoil Arch.
Marius has left.

Iason walks to the north and passes through the Trefoil Arch.
Iason has left.

Sha'ara'diin, himself, looks none to comfortable in his current 
  surroundings, his features denoting his feeling that this excersize is 
  a most distatefull nessecity. He gently ushers the two Ladies forward, 
  into the Basilica

Sarina walks to the north and passes through the Trefoil Arch.
Sarina has left.

Ivanova walks to the north and passes through the Trefoil Arch.
Ivanova has left.

Sha'ara'diin walks to the north and passes through the Trefoil Arch.
Sha'ara'diin has left.

Kalador walks to the north and passes through the Trefoil Arch.
Kalador has left.

You walk through the Trefoil Arch.

St. Maledict's Basilica -- Monasterium Tleilaxu (Kaitain)

Players:
 Cuanu                                 Marius                                
 Fredhrick                             Praxton                               
 Govindha                              Sarina                                
 Iason                                 Sha'ara'diin                          
 Ivanova                               Spierson                              
 Kalador                               Yashpal                               
 Marhut                               

Yashpal chuckles. "I, the Abbot of the Monastery of St. Maledict the 
  Bioengineer, offer my most humble welcome to His Sublime and 
  Incandescent Majesty, as well as His illustrious and noble subjects." 
  He glances at Govindha quickly. In the direction of the Emperor and 
  the newly arrived siridary, he kneels in a genuflection that quickly 
  turns into an obsequious kowtow, knocking his head slightly against 
  the pavement.

Fredhrick gives a nod to the Abbot. "We are most pleased to be here, 
  though we regret that other business will prevent us from staying to 
  the completion of the event."

Iason's eyes continue to roam.

Yashpal still kowtowing, smiles. "Truly, His Sublime Majesty's presence 
  is such that even a cursory visit shall delight we humble monks 
  inestimably."

A man in Bajazet livery enters and strides up to his Baron, whispering 
  in his ear, Sha'ara'diin nods curtly then replies to the assembled 
  crowds, "I cry your pardon My Lords, Lady, and your most Sublime 
  Majesty, there is an emergency I must attend to." With that he turns 
  on his heel, clearly clicked into 'military mode' and follows the 
  servant out.

Sha'ara'diin walks to the south and passes through the Trefoil Arch.
Sha'ara'diin has left.

Govindha pads about the hall, shouting orders in an odd tongue to the 
  monks. Coming quickly to attention, the Brothers proceed to unbolt the 
  chairs from the floor and carry them out of the hall. Several moments 
  pass, and they return with a long, low steel table and floor cushions. 
  Placing the table in the middle of the floor and the pillows around 
  it, they scurry off and stand in the corners of the room. Govindha, 
  seeing that all is ready, calls out, "Please to sit, all. We will 
  proceed with the Gifting of Gifts and a small supper."

Kalador watches his Baron depart and looks to Arina quizicly.

Sarina watches her brother leave with a sigh, and then directs her 
  attention to the activity around her.

Kalador steps up just beside and behind Sarina, whispering to her 
  quietly.

Fredhrick forces a small smile. "Rise, Abbot. It is difficult to speak 
  to a man whose eyes are pinned to the ground. We are interested in the 
  welfare of our people. We do what we can to reassure them of this. We 
  have found that public appearances such as this one do much to that 
  effect, even when we cannot stay, so we make as many of them as 
  possible."

Yashpal rises. "Truly, we are honoured, Your Sublime Majesty..."

With the vacancy now created by the departure of the Baron, Ivanova 
  turns and takes a step closer to Sarina. She smiles lightly at the 
  Lady before turning her attentions back to the show before her.

Fredhrick leans a bit closer to the Abbot as he rises and softly says 
  something to him.

Govindha sits down at the pillow at the far end of the table, and waits 
  for the rest to join him. Two monks do their best to fluff His 
  Majesty's pillow at the other end. Six more bring out plates, odd-
  looking silverware, and spice shakers and place them on the table.

Cuanu swiftly closes up to the Emperor, halting at a respectable 
  distance to him, who is he that he would be important enough to 
  announce his arrivel..

Fredhrick is not a physically imposing individual, but his aura of 
  absolute authority projects an almost tangible force. Fredhrick's jet 
  black hair is combed back and shows no sign of graying. His black 
  Sardaukar uniform is immaculately pressed, and the Golden Lion Ring 
  gleams on the smallest finger of his left hand.

Spierson eyes the timid crowd before choosing a plump cushion for 
  himself, six or seven places down from Govindha's. He settles himself 
  in, toying with a fork to amuse himself.

Fredhrick waits patiently for the two monks to fluff his pillow, then 
  compliments them on it's comfort as he sits upon it.

Iason finds a seat by his Duke silently.

Sarina glances at Ivanova, before making a move to sit down on a pillow 
  herself, "Would My Lady care to join me?"

"I would be delighted." Ivanova smiles and lowers herself into a pillow 
  likewise. Her eyes linger over the contents of the table as she 
  settles.

Yashpal barks a quick order to a small knot of idling monks. Within 
  moments they return, bearing a number of bowls of indeterminate, but 
  savoury, white soup.

Marhut lingers by the doorway, watching over the room.

Govindha points to the spice shakers, and notes, "I urge you to use 
  caution when spicing your food. The blackish spice is pepper, the 
  white one salt, and the orangish-grey one, amchur. Use those with 
  abandon." He points to the fourth shaker. "Be aware, however, of the 
  fourth. This is the infamous Bandalong Masala, a potent mixture of 
  peppers, salt, amchur, asafoetida, ash, small glass beads, several 
  sorts of bacteria, a stimulant, two barbituates, and a mild 
  hallucinogen. It is recommended that none but those of Tleilaxu origin 
  touch the fourth shaker, let alone shake it upon their food."
 
Ivanova leans over towards Sarina and whispers something as she reaches 
  down to one of the odd-looking silverware.

Cuanu silently studies the chairs provided, deciding to stand for now, 
  visibly concerned about the Emperor's security, what with no apparent 
  guards.

Marius stands by his Duke, observing the meal with obvious interest.

Yashpal sees to it that these are placed in at each place along the 
  table, while another group of berobed men bring similar refreshments 
  for the retainers clustered about. The Emperor, and the siridari are, 
  of course, served in ostentatious looking golden bowls.

Ivanova mutters to Sarina, "... uncerstain... if I... pleased... the 
  silverware*"

Iason quietly turns his attention towards the items before his Duke.
  
Marius glances with interest at the fourth shaker.

Praxton pleasantly waves aside the monk attempting to serve him, "I'm 
  sorry, I'm on a medical regiment. Thank you."

Yashpal claps his hands and the brothers bring small reddish dinner 
  rolls. Oddly, the emit a meaty odour...

Yashpal bows to Praxton, and understanding smile upon his face. "As Your 
  Grace wishes - we understand and hope for Your Grace's continued good 
  health."

Sarina looks at the food carefully, picking at it with her fork. She 
  frowns thoughtfully, though still hasn't tried anything yet.

Govindha picks up the largest piece of silverware, a thin iron bar with 
  a fork on one end and a knife on the other. "Oh, and do be careful 
  with this. The last time we hosted a dinner, four Landsraad notables 
  poked their eyes out. They, unfortunately, had to buy our unique metal 
  eyes, available for purchase or lease from your local importer of 
  medical novelties."

Praxton looks at Iason, blinking in an owlish fashion. He then glances 
  pointedly at the offered dishes.

Cuanu still stands closely to the Emperor, regarding the dishes with a 
  frown.

Iason merely inclines his head, as he steps forward to sample the 
  dishes.

Ivanova looks up towards Govindha and smiles. She gently replaces the 
  utensil down on the table as she reponds, "A.. costly, though perhaps 
  advantageous, mistake for those notables."

Yashpal beams as he surveys the newly arrived soup and rolls. "O most 
  esteemed and Sublime Emperor and His Glorious Nobility, we of St. 
  Maledict are pleased to serve Cream of Mushroat, one of our 
  specialties, combining the glories of the mushroom with the savour of 
  the goat, and our famed Bovine Wheat Rolls - a combination of the 
  Staff of Life with that most savoury and adorable beast, the cow.

Kalador stands just behind Sarina, a placid smile on his face, ready to 
  assist her if needed.

Fredhrick's eyes glance momentarily to Govindha as the Master makes yet 
  another advertisement for Tlielaxu products in his presence. This 
  being a Tleilaxu event, however, he takes no offense. Carefully taking 
  the forklike arrangement in his hand he pokes at the items in his 
  bowl. "Costly indeed. Perhaps you should consider a brief 
  instructional period on how to utilize the instruments."

Sarina looks as though she could turn green at the announcement of their 
  meal. She places her fork back down, looking to see other people's 
  reactions to the food.

Iason carefully picks up the fork-like thing, to pick at the food in the 
  bowl. Afte r studying Govindha for a moment, he manipulates the 
  utensil in a somewhat competent manner.

Fredhrick is not a physically imposing individual, but his aura of 
  absolute authority projects an almost tangible force. Fredhrick's jet 
  black hair is combed back and shows no sign of graying. His black 
  Sardaukar uniform is immaculately pressed, and the Golden Lion Ring 
  gleams on the smallest finger of his left hand.

Kalador leans over to whisper to Sarina quietly.

The doorway to the Menagerie opens and a single figure emerges. His jet 
  black hair is combed back and shows no sign of graying. He is not a 
  physically imposing individual, but his aura of absolute authority 
  projects an almost tangible force. The being is completely unclothed.

Govindha shudders noticeably, and murmurs, "Oh great mother... not 
  now..."

Sarina's fly open in surprise, her calm demenour lost at this 
  lastest...exposure to court life. She blushes furiously, and drops her 
  eyes, turning to whisper to Ivanova.

Iason's 'fork' pauses halfway to his mouth as he looks over to see what 
  has brought Govindha down so.

Yashpal glances sharply at the newly figure. His smile turns to a snarl 
  as the barks in at the monks standing 'round about.

Ivanova watches the figure with intent eyes. A smile appears upon her 
  face.

Kalador's eyes look to the new arrival, an eyebrow raising.

Marius's left eyebrow practically leaps up to his brow as he peers at 
  the naked figure with undisguised loathing.

Strange... this man looks familiar... looks like someone in the room... 
  as he lifts his face to look at the room with a blank stare. He turns 
  back and then proceeds towards the Chapel

Praxton smiles the paternal, condescending smile of a man about to 
  recieve an explanation.... one he probably won't believe.

Ivanova leans towards Sarina and lightly shakes her head, "Though... 
  enjoy it while it lasts... not often do you get such... a viewing in 
  public."

Iason's attention, turned towards the door, has resulted in inattention 
  to what shaker he uses. He takes the fourth shaker in hand and 
  sprinkles some lightly on his food.

Fredhrick slowly lowers his 'fork' to the table his eyes watching the 
  nude man as he walks to the chapel. "An interesting dinner companion, 
  High Master." Fredhrick stands. "Please, Bring him out for us all to 
  meet."

Marius glances at the table as the naked man disappears.

Govindha closes his eyes, and blows out a large breath. "Oh dear..." He 
  looks at the forknife, then at his wrists, then at the forknife again. 
  He shrugs, and tries to explain. "That was, er... Brother..." He 
  shrugs once more. "Abbot, what the devil was that!?"

Yashpal motions suddenly at Iason. "Don't eat that, my Lord Earl!"

Kalador's head turns quickly from person to person as the commotion 
  ensues.

Yashpal looks up from saving Earl Merx. He chuckles. "That was... Er... 
  Brother... Iambic... Yes, good old... Brother Iambic... ahahaha... A 
  handsome fellow, no? If a bit absent minded... haha..."

Ivanova turns her head towards the Abbot. Her brow furrows as she lets 
  her gaze turn to the Earl, watching him for some reaction.

Marius mutters to Praxton, "... Brother Iambic... Dactylic.... 
  Spondeic."

Praxton chuckles discreetly, amused at his Mentat's comment.

Iason glances down at the fork curiously, as he had not sprinkled that 
  with anything.

"Indeed," Fredhrick croons. "We would like to meet the Brother. 
  Introduce us to him."

Marius mutters to Praxton, "And... they... with... long... they... a..."

Govindha leaps up, and scurries off to the Cloisters to find Brother 
  Iambic.
Govindha walks to the west and moves along the Stone Hallway.
Govindha has left.

Govindha walks in from Chapel of the Flagellant Capuchins along the 
  Stone Hallway.
Govindha has arrived.

Yashpal grimaces at Iason, and motions to a monk to replace Iason's 
  food. He then bows unctuously, and smiling sweetly, turns to the 
  Emperor. "As Your Sublime Majesty wishes... Ho! Brother, help the 
  Master Find Brother Iambic!"

Praxton ends his chuckling by clearing his throat loudly, and attempting 
  to pay more attention to the goings-on.

Iason asks Yashpal, "Would it have done so much harm, good sir, to have 
  sampled it?

Govindha pops his head out of the stone hallway for a moment. 
  "Dreadfully sorry. Our most humble apologies... Brother Iambic has, 
  er, suddenly died. Yes."

Yashpal smiles at Marius. "There are monks, indeed, by those names, 
  Honoured Guest... We Tleilax love our poetry." He smiles.

Ivanova leans forward and retrieves one of the shakers herself. She 
  lightly lifts it close to her face and sniffs carefully.

Yashpal nods to Iason emphatically, then cries in a loud voice "Not 
  Brother Iambic! Ah me!!!" He rushes into the Chapel.

Cuanu casts a glance at Govindha, his lips curling slightly.If in 
  amusement or dismay is not clear.

Yashpal walks to the west and moves along the Stone Hallway.
Yashpal has left.

Marius mutters to Praxton and Iason, "... he... tonight."

Sarina glances around at all the commotion, shaking her head. She picks 
  up a spoon-like object, and takes a cautions sip of the soup.

From Chapel of the Flagellant Capuchins -- Monasterium Tleilaxu 
  (Kaitain), a masculine voice shouts, "A poor man! Who thought you'd 
  contribute to our Art so early! Ah me!!"

Govindha walks out of the west nave and back into the hall, and stands 
  behind the Emperor at the head of the table. "Do not be overly upset 
  at our good friend's passing; Death happens to us all--except of 
  course to His Undying Majesty, who is exempt. But death is not 
  forever..." He trails off, wistfully.

From Chapel of the Flagellant Capuchins -- Monasterium Tleilaxu 
  (Kaitain), a masculine voice shouts, "Ho brothers mine! I mourn and 
  beat your breasts (not the gengineered ones), for a Brother pure and 
  true has found his path to Eternity! Ah me!"

Spierson eyes his soup suspiciously and with a polite smile pushes it a 
  symbolic centimeter away, indicating his disinterest.

Yashpal walks in from Chapel of the Flagellant Capuchins along the Stone 
  Hallway.
Yashpal has arrived.

Ivanova raises her eyebrow towards the doorway and the ensuing voices. 
  She replaces the shaker on the talbe and leans towards Sarina, "That 
  is not common ... either."

Govindha shrugs, and changes the subject. "Anywho, the night is getting 
  late, and before Dawn stretches out her tentacles of rose, we ought to 
  move on. And now, the Gifting!" He claps his hands, and the monks run 
  off to the Menagerie to get the Gifts.

Filarion walks in from Vestibule through the Trefoil Arch.
Filarion has arrived.

Zhia walks in from Vestibule through the Trefoil Arch.
Zhia has arrived.

Lita walks in from Vestibule through the Trefoil Arch.
Lita has arrived.

Iason takes the time to just taste the forkful before putting it down 
  quickly.

Yashpal walks in, a file of monks following. Quietly, they find a seat 
  for the dead (but now clad) 'Iambic.' "Truly, Brother Iambic would 
  wish to be here, O most Incandescent Ones, to act as a reminder to us 
  all of sudden mortality - our skeleton at the feast, as it were. It is 
  a custom of ours..."

Yashpal grimaces as Iambic topples over into a bowl of soup.

Filarion slowly walks into the Basilica, not the least ashamed to be 
  late, still having the emperor's words regarding bowing in mind he 
  makes his way to an empty table. Lita is walking close behind him and 
  he is leading Zhia with his right arm when entering.

Sarina jumps slightly at the sight of the body, putting her spoon down, 
  and folding her hands in her lap, looking a little ill.

"Indeed," Fredhrick says to Govindha as his timepiece chimes twice. 
  "Unfortunately the short time We alotted for this visit has expired 
  and Our presence is required elsewhere. We regret that we are unable 
  to stay for the gifting, but..." He shrugs slightly, as if to indicate 
  that some things are beyond even his control."

Govindha tries very hard to look disappointed. "But, Your Majesty, we 
  had for Your Wise and Sadly-Departing Majesty the greatest of Gifts!" 
  He shrugs, sadly. "Well, circumstances cannot be helped; we will gift 
  Your Majesty Your Majesty's gift at our next meeting." He drops to the 
  floor in a kowtow, smiting his forehead upon the low table.

Yashpal reenters the room, his face sombre. A sudden crashing sound to 
  the west causes him to kowtow, then leave.

Fredhrick walks to the south and passes through the Trefoil Arch.
Fredhrick has left.

*Outside, Fredhrick walks in from Vestibule through the Archway.
*Outside, Fredhrick has arrived.
*Outside, Fredhrick enters, surrounded by 10 Sardaukar soldiers. 
  Apparent is the tell-tale shimmer of a shield at its maximum setting 
  surrounding the Emperor.

Cuanu prepares to trail out after the Emperor, his presence not required 
  at such festivities anyway.

*Outside, You find a dead ghoal hanging.

Cuanu walks to the south and passes through the Trefoil Arch.
Cuanu has left.

*Outside, The face is already blue with its lifelessness. A noose is 
  tight about the neck as it swings from a nearby tree. The face... the 
  face seems familiar to you.

Govindha rises from his kowtow. He calls out to a monk: "Brother Sivar, 
  you may call off the search for a Gift for His Majesty. His Majesty 
  has departed."

Yashpal issues curses in a strange tongue, echoing in from the Chapel. 
  Moans begin to sound, then stop suddenly. He does not return...

Ivanova shakes her head lightly and looks towards Sarina. She whispers 
  lightly, "There has been enough... excitement for this evening. I 
  shall be departing... care to join me Lady?"

Praxton's expression is one of bemusement and confusion. His ducal 
  signet taps softly on the arm of his chair.

*Outside, Fredhrick pauses mid-stride as he sees the ghola and takes two 
  cautious steps towards it. "Two deaths in one evening," he murmers to 
  himself. "Perhaps I should sent a brigade of Sardaukar to wpie them 
  from Kitain."

Yashpal walks to the west and moves along the Stone Hallway.
Yashpal has left.

Sarina is looking decidedly uncomfortable at all these strange 
  happenings. She keeps her hands neatly folded in her lap, making no 
  move to eat any more. Turning to Ivanova, "I believe my Lady has 
  summed this up nicely. Yes, I shall depart as well."

Marius mutters to Praxton, "Perhaps... my... are..."

*Outside, Hmm... it seems this ghola looks like the naked one inside. 
  Coincidence?

Ivanova stands and slides out of the room, quietly.

Ivanova walks to the south and passes through the Trefoil Arch.
Ivanova has left.

*Outside, Unlikely, for Fredhrick doesn't belive in coincidences.

Sarina walks to the south and passes through the Trefoil Arch.
Sarina has left.

*Outside, Ivanova walks in from Vestibule through the Archway.
*Outside, Ivanova has arrived.

*Outside, Sarina walks in from Vestibule through the Archway.
*Outside, Sarina has arrived.

*Outside, Cuanu walks in from Vestibule through the Archway.
*Outside, Cuanu has arrived.

Spierson seems to sense the waning air to the festivities and decides to 
  take his leave as well. With an effort he rises from his cushion and 
  exacts a careful bow to his hosts. "You have my and the Guild's thanks 
  for a delightful evening gentlemen." he murmurs.

*Outside, Emerging from the Monasterium, Ivanova takes in a deep breath, 
  as if cleansing her lungs of the impure air.

*Outside, Sarina is looking slightly ill, as if the whole event had been 
  more than she could stomach.

*Outside, The Emperor stands before the body of a dead ghola that is 
  hanging with a noose about his neck from a nearby tree.

Govindha stands, and calls out, "Brother Depugh, please to bring out the 
  Atreides gift!" A monk comes in from the Menagerie holding a dark 
  wooden staff, and hands it to Praxton. "Lord Atreides, be so kind as 
  to accept this gift of our most profound esteem, a walking stick of 
  the finest wood on Tleilax. When you are weary, you may lean upon it. 
  When you are angry, you may use it as a weapon. When you are under 
  stress, you may smoke it. Please to take this most humble gift, my 
  Lord."

Spierson walks to the south and passes through the Trefoil Arch.
Spierson has left.

*Outside, Spierson walks in from Vestibule through the Archway.
*Outside, Spierson has arrived.

*Outside, Spierson passes the Rue Albans.
*Outside, Spierson has left.

*Outside, Seeing the Emperor, Ivanova lowers her head and goes into a 
  slight cursty, "Your Majesty"

Praxton opens his mouth as if to thank the Tlielaxu, stops himself, then 
  starts anew, "Many thanks and regards for this... useful and unique... 
  gift."

*Outside, Sarina pauses mid-curtsy, her gaze falling on yet another 
  spectacle. She pales even further.

*Outside, Fredhrick lifts his communicator to his mouth and contacts the 
  Caid of Kitain, "You should come to the Tleilaxu Monastary, there 
  appears to be a murdered ghola in the outer foyer." He turns to 
  Ivanova, "Find the High Master and inform him of this most unusual 
  decoration. Tell him we will want an explanation by the dawn or we 
  shall be most displeased."

Govindha gives another shout. "Brother Visnou, please to escort in the 
  Harkonnen gift!"

Marius reaches out and takes the gift from Brother Depugh, nodding 
  politely.

Kristianna walks in from Chapel of the Flagellant Capuchins along the 
  Stone Hallway.
Kristianna has arrived.

*Outside, Cuanu is standing beside the Emperor, his face deeply frowned, 
  not commenting yet.

*Outside, Ivanova bows her head, "Of course Your Majesty." She keeps her 
  eyes lowered as she turns her head towards Sarina, as if checking the 
  state of the Lady at her side.

Zhia watches as Ivanova leaves, turning toward Filarion, "Well I best be 
  leaving, least Lady Ivanova would depart without me. Hopefully I'll be 
  seeing you soon again Count?"

Filarion glances over to Praxton, then back to Govindha, as the only 
  Harkonnen here, representing the House.

Filarion gives a small nod to Zhia. "I sincerely hope so, My Lady."

From the dark hallway at the west nave of the chapel, a gold figure 
  appears, moving as precisely as one might imagine a statue might move. 
  It pauses, then courtseys to the people in the room.

Zhia gives a graceful bow to Filarion as she turns quickly on one heel 
  off to catch up with Ivanova.

*Outside, Sarina appears frozen in her spot, gaze absolutely transfixed.

*Outside, "Cuanu!" Fredhrick calls. "Cuanu, come here." He turns his 
  head to find his investigator close at hand. "That body is not to be 
  taken by anyone other than the Caid or another of the Sardaukar. We 
  wish it kept for our own personal investigation of the murder. Be sure 
  that the High MAster and the Aboot both see it in-state before it is 
  removed."

Zhia walks to the south and passes through the Trefoil Arch.
Zhia has left.

*Outside, Zhia walks in from Vestibule through the Archway.
*Outside, Zhia has arrived.

Filarion frowns, casting a short glance to Lita, as if to compare both 
  figures.

*Outside, The Emperor and Cuanu stand before a dead ghola body that is 
  hanging from a noose in the tree. The two women are standing some 
  distance away, as if avoiding the sight of the lifeless creature.

Govindha holds out his arms. "Behold! Over three decades ago, the Baron 
  Harkonnen did fall in love with a girl named Christina, whom he did 
  meet at the illustrious Ginaz School. But, before this comely lass 
  could be made his own, she died in a still not yet explained accident 
  involving an Ixian Sword Simulator. What tragedy! But now, we have 
  brought her back for the enjoyment and pleasure of your Lord the 
  Baron. Before you stands the legendary Christina."

*Outside, Cuanu bows his head to the Emperor. "My Emperor is of course 
  right. Everything shall be arranged to solve this unpleasant incident 
  as swift as possible."

Iason turns his attention towards Kristianna.

Marius lets out a sharp gasp at this Tleilaxu effrontery.

*Outside, Ivanova lifts her head and looks towards Zhia as she emerges. 
  She quickly walks over to the Ambassador's side and whispers, "Tell 
  the... High Master that there is a most unusual and displeasing... 
  decoration outside of his building and that the Emperor will want some 
  answers by Dawn!" She nods her head back into the building, "Go... 
  now... I'll wait for you return here."

*Outside, Zhia comes strolling in looking for Lady Ivanova. Getting a 
  glimpse of the body, slowly moves to Ivanova's side with her mouth 
  open wide in horror.

*Outside, Zhia walks to the east and passes through the Archway.
*Outside, Zhia has left.

Zhia walks in from Vestibule through the Trefoil Arch.
Zhia has arrived.

The gold figure rises from her courtsey, and walks further into the 
  room, the light falling on her. She glances around the room, a small 
  smile on her face. Then she proceeds toward where Godvindha stands, 
  and stands beside him.

Praxton's jaw drops a full inch, and stays there. His eyes are wide and 
  unblinking as he regards the ghola.

Govindha twists his lips into a smile. "You like, your Grace? She is a 
  beauty to behold..."

Filarion chuckles audibly, patting Lita's head as he does so. Then he 
  bows to Govindha. "I am sure that this gift will find the Baron's 
  utmost praise."

Praxton's head turns to the left, stopping in a half-shake. The knuckles 
  of his right hand turn white.

*Outside, Fredhrick nods to Cuanu. "We will want a report from you by 
  dawn as well. Find us at the palace when you return. Do not fear 
  interrupting if we are occupied." There's a slight flourish of the 
  Emperor's cape as he turns for the door and strides quickly towards 
  it, causing the cape to billow ever-so-slightly behind him.

*Outside, Sarina is still staring at the ghola, her eyes wide. 
  Apparently, she isn't used to this.

Govindha's eyes narrow. "Are you quite all right, Your Grace? You didn't 
  try the Bandalong Masala, now, did you?"

*Outside, Cuanu bows behind the leaving Emperor, turning around to look 
  at the others present.

*Outside, Ivanova watches Zhia leave and let out a quick sigh. She turns 
  back to Sarina and nods her head, "Again... I do not know what it 
  going on but this is most unusual M'Lady for Kaitain."

"You didn't...", the Duke says, in a quite, reproving tone. "This is... 
  impossible."

Zhia walks up to Govindha bowing and softly says, "High Master, there is 
  a most displeasing and unusual decoration outside of your building. 
  The Emperor says he wants some answers by dawn." Swiftly turning on 
  one heel walks out the door.

Zhia walks to the south and passes through the Trefoil Arch.
Zhia has left.

*Outside, Zhia walks in from Vestibule through the Archway.
*Outside, Zhia has arrived.

Marius mutters to Praxton, "Sire,..."

*Outside, Sarina covers her mouth, looking a tad quesy as she finally 
  averts her gaze, "I think now would be a good time to return home."

Iason's eyes turn from the ghola to his Duke, and he silently sneaks his 
  hand towards the base of the Duke's head. With a swift rap of his 
  knuckles, he strikes several key nerve points just below where the 
  spine enters the skull.

Kristianna's smile never wavers, her eyes resting impassively on each 
  person as he or she speaks.

*Outside, Zhia moves over toward Ivanova, still with a look of disgust 
  upon her face and says, "The message has been delivered m'Lady."

*Outside, Ivanova looks back as Zhia reemerges. She nods her head 
  towards Sarina and smiles, "You can use our Limo... we would be more 
  than happy to bring you back to your embassy."

The Duke's eyes roll upward, his breath gone in a ragged sigh. He slumps 
  in his chair, out cold.

Marius sighs in relief and looks to Iason.

*Outside, Sarina smiles faintly, "I appreciate the kindness, and would 
  gladly take you up on the offer."

Iason turns back to Govindha. "I fear that my lord Duke is overtired by 
  tonight's exertions, and the surprise at seeing the lady that he and 
  the Baron fell in love with returned was too much for his system.

Filarion shakes his head, his eyes laughing, "Now please, I thought that 
  the Duke would stand above the art of the Tleilaxu? At least that 
  always was my humble impression."

Govindha makes a small 'meh'-like sound at Zhia's comment. "His Majesty 
  probably saw the Statue of the Immolation of Sts. Benefolt and 
  Viriput. It gets them all."

*Outside, Ivanova nods her head and smiles lightly, "Please... come this 
  way." She manages to place her body towards that of the tree as she 
  waves her hand forward.

*Outside, Cuanu slowly walks up and down, his eyes searching the area 
  for posible pieces of evidence.

A slight frown furrows the golden girl's brow as the older gentleman 
  slumps back in his chair. She looks over at Govindha, a query in the 
  dark eyes.

Iason leaves the matter about the Bandalong Masala and his own part in 
  the 'overtiring' of the system unspoken. "The Duke is merely a man, my 
  lord Count." he says, directing his words to Filarion. "He has a heart 
  like any man. Seeing a dead love's image in the flesh proved to be too 
  much for him to bear in his exhausted state."

*Outside, Sarina passes the Rue Albans.
*Outside, Sarina has left.

*Outside, Ivanova passes the Rue Albans.
*Outside, Ivanova has left.

*Outside, Zhia passes the Rue Albans.
*Outside, Zhia has left.

Govindha blinks repeatedly. "What did you say, Earl Merx? Perhaps you do 
  not understand... Christina was the Baron /Harkonnen's/ dead love."

Marius reassures himself that his Duke is in good health.

Filarion nods his head to Iason, "True, but doesn't that prove critiques 
  of this marvellous work here wrong?"

Iason merely turns back to Govindha. "They both loved her.' he corrects. 
  "It was the source of the duel that has left the Duke's knee in such a 
  sorry state.

Iason says, "And I cannot say, save that they show their usual skill in 
  bringing the impossible into the realm of the material, my lord 
  Count."

Govindha blinks once more. "Oh dear. I was not aware of that." He sighs, 
  frowning. "Great Mother, must everything go wrong tonight?"

Marius says, "When one judges what has gone wrong, one must only judge 
  the intention of the actors."

Iason shakes his head quietly. "Only if the item that His Majesty is 
  complaining about proves to be another defacing of his image."

*Outside, Cuanu passes the Rue Albans.
*Outside, Cuanu has left.

The puzzled look on Kristianna's face deepens as she looks from Praxton 
  to Iason to Govindha. She takes a small step backward, toward the 
  shadows.

Iason makes a gesture to Marius, before turning to bow deeply to 
  Govindha. "I fear that my lord Duke should perhaps be returned to bed, 
  to rest and recuperate."

Govindha tut tuts. "Impossible, Earl Merx. There aren't any image of His 
  Majesty around here to defa... oh dear. It cannot be that..."

Iason's lips turn up in a cold smile. "Let us see if he is defaced 
  then." he suggests lightly, his face otherwise bland.

Filarion slowly makes a step forward, nodding to the departing Atreides 
  party. "High Master, the Baron will feel honoured by this generous and 
  magnificient gift. Let me only give my own humble thanks for I cannot 
  speak for My Lord Baronof course.

Marius bows and retreats to the Vestibule.
Marius walks to the south and passes through the Trefoil Arch.
Marius has left.
Govindha nods to the Lankiveil. "Of course, of course. Now let us see 
  what all the commotion is outside...'

*Outside, Marius walks in from Vestibule through the Archway.
*Outside, Marius has arrived.

Govindha walks to the south and passes through the Trefoil Arch.
Govindha has left.

*Outside, Marius passes the Rue Albans.
*OUtside, Marius has left.

Lita stays behind, not wanting to come too close to those ohso known 
  man.

Praxton walks to the south and passes through the Trefoil Arch.
Praxton has left.

Filarion walks to the east and moves along the Stone Hallway.
Filarion has left.

Iason walks to the south and passes through the Trefoil Arch.
Iason has left.

*Outside, Govindha walks in from Vestibule through the Archway.
*Outside, Govindha has arrived.

Lita walks to the east and moves along the Stone Hallway.
Lita has left.

*Outside, Iason walks in from Vestibule through the Archway.
*Outside, Iason has arrived.

*Outside, Praxton walks in from Vestibule through the Archway.
*Outside, Praxton has arrived.

Filarion walks to the south and passes through the Trefoil Arch.
Filarion has left.

*Outside, Hanging from a nearby tree is the body of a dead ghola. He 
  looks strangely like the one that walked through naked before during 
  the evening. His face is already blue with the onset of death.

Lita walks to the south and passes through the Trefoil Arch.
Lita has left.

Kristianna walks to the south and passes through the Trefoil Arch.
Kristianna has left.

*Outside, Filarion walks in from Vestibule through the Archway.
*Outside, Filarion has arrived.

*Outside, Lita walks in from Vestibule through the Archway.
*Outside, Lita has arrived.

*Outside, Kristianna walks in from Vestibule through the Archway.
*Outside, Kristianna has arrived.

*Outside, Filarion glances about, trailing out after Govindha, Lita 
  behind him. He throws a glance at the dead body, drily commenting, 
  "Too late, it seems."

*Outside, Iason nods once, silently to himself. "As I suspected." he 
  says softly, studying the dead ghola (not the live, rather cute ghola) 
  with a fiercely intense gaze.

*Outside, Govindha walks up to the tree. "Oh dear oh dear oh great 
  Mother! Kristianna, what did Brother Yashpal do with Brother...er, 
  Iambic after I sedated him? He did give him to the proper buyers, 
  correct?"

*Outside, Kristianna gazes at the dead ghola with expressionless eyes. 
  She turns slowly at Godvindha's question. "He did," she replies softly 
  in a sweet soprano.

*Outside, Govindha pads over to Kristianna and hisses, "... weren't... 
  to kill him!... know... much trouble... us in! What... wrong?!?"

*Outside, Govindha sighs loudly, and repeats the Litany of Acquisition 
  under his breath to calm himself.

*Outside, Kristianna's dispassionate gaze rests on Godvindha. She shrugs 
  her shoulders eloquently. "As the High Master himself has said, the 
  buyers may do as they wish with their...property." Her reply, though 
  still soft, carries clearly.

*Outside, Filarion snorts softly, taking Lita's hand as he nods to all 
  present, a mocking bow towards the unconscious Duke, "You have to 
  excuse me, it was an extraordinary evening."

*Outside, Govindha rushes over to the Landsraad types and begins to 
  babble. "This wasn't... We didn't do... Brother Iambic wasn't to be.. 
  Oh dear." He hears Kristianna's comment, and nods. "Yes, but... Had I 
  know that they'd..." Had Govindha organic eyes, tears would be flowing 
  from them.

*Outside, The body swings around slightly in the wind and at the base of 
  the noose is a metal clasp with a small rose imprinted onto it.
 
*Outside, Iason silently takes notes, filing them away mentally. "Can 
  anyone get a recording of this? And can the body be brought to this 
  lab..." he goes on, looking for a writing utensil and paper.

*Outside, Iason says, "And I want that damned clasp!"

*Outside, Kristianna's own very organic eyes remain dry as she stands 
  beside Govindha, calmly surveying the scene. She glances up as the 
  body swings in the wind, then over at Iason as he speaks.

*Outside, Govindha storms out of the street, muttering to himself. "Oh 
  dear oh dear oh dear... the Grand High Master will not be pleased... 
  There goes my tenure..." He passes the arch, still chanting "oh dear."

*Outside, Govindha walks to the east and passes through the Archway.
*Outside, Govindha has left.

*Outside, Filarion shakes his head and bows lightly to those present 
  before making his way to the Foothill central. Lita is following him 
  on his heels, glancing back once.

*Outside, Iason silently studies the dead Ghola, moving to check the 
  clasp.

*Outside, Kristianna casts a last glance in the direction of the dead 
  Ghola. Her lips quirk in something not akin to a smile, yet not a 
  grimace, either. She then turns on her heel and follows Govindha into 
  the Basilica.

*Outside, Filarion rotates on his left leg after some steps, locking his 
  gaze on Kristianna. "Are you coming to the embassy with me, M'Lady?" 
  He obviously treats Ghola's like normal people...

*Outside, Kristianna pauses from automatically following Govindha. She 
  turns to look at Filarion. "Yes..." she murmurs distractedly. "Yes, 
  I'm to go with you to the Embassy, m'lord." Her dark eyes rest on the 
  man as she courtseys.

*Outside, Filarion nods, waiting for her to come over, then continuing 
  on his way to the plaza.
*Outside, Filarion passes the Rue Albans.
*Outside, Filarion has left.

*Outside, Kristianna slowly follows Filarion down the street.
*Outside, Kristianna passes the Rue Albans.
*Outside, Kristianna has left.

*Outside, Lita passes the Rue Albans.
*Outside, Lita has left.