The Atreides Gymnasia Tour - March 1st, 1999

[Edward Pang <ogrek@home.com>]

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	House Atreides Presents: A Tour of the Gymnasia

Starring: Arn, Cato, Iason, Karin, Josef, Juseppe, Mintor, Sarina,
Sha'ara'diin, 
Siegfried, Thomas, Zhia

Summary: Various visitors drop in and out to tour the new Atreides
public athletic facilities.

Logged by: Iason, March 1st, 1999, approximately 20:00 hours CST	
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Grand Foyer Euterpes -- Atreides Embassy (Kaitain)
The outer steps lead up to a spacious peristyle that forms the entrance to the
Atreides embassy. The beautifully carved frieze of the Embassy helps shelter
the peristyle, providing shade and enclosure; it is supported on large stone
columns, grooved along their lengths, with gilded pedestals and finely worked
capitals. The floor underfoot is tiled to a circular geometric design, with the
image of the Atreides hawk worked in emerald and black. Two connected arches
extend inward from the frieze, forming the Grand Foyer Euterpes. Exquisite
frescoes depicting historical moments of pride for House Atreides adorn the
ceiling; they are illuminated by light reflected off the polished tiles of the
colonnade. The Foyer opens into the Hall of the Palladium within.
Objects:
 Ginaz Staffcar                                     Harkonnen Limosine
Exits:
 Colonnade <W> leads to Sheuset Square -- Embassy District (Kaitain) 
 Columned Arch <E> leads to Hall of the Palladium -- Atreides Embassy (Kaitain)

Thomas exits the Ginaz Staffcar.

Siegfried exits the Ginaz Staffcar.

Iason steps down the Embassy stairs lightly, dipping easily into a graceful
bow.

The Ginaz Staffcar departs the area.

Thomas bows in the proper fashion to the Ambassador "It's a pleasure to see you
agin Ambassador. I trust you are well.

Siegfried bows too...

Thomas says, "I trust that you have remained free of the Palazzo Virus thing
that seems to be going around.""

Siegfried walk toward the Lord Ambassador "Are you all right, Lord Ambassador?"

Thomas mutters to Siegfried, "I think... fallen..."

Siegfried talking a bit louder "Lord Ambassador Merx!"

Thomas scratches his head and twittles his thumbs in embarassment

Thomas nods and smile to the Lord Ambassador

Siegfried look at the Ambassador waking up, he bows "Greetings, Lord
Amabassador. Hope i ain't interrupting any meeting of yours..."

Iason rises smoothly. "Indeed, Ambassador Steiner." he says. "I trust you both
are well, Ambassador Steiner, Baron Ryoden?"

Siegfried smiles "well...I should be dead by now, but i'm well...I touched to
source of the infection...Seems alcool is a good remedy against that
Fever...That,s probably why the Harkonnen hadn't declared a Quarantine..."

Iason inclines his head. "PErhaps." he admits. "Though there are few clues save
for what rumors have been dropped concerning the 'security' of the Moritani
masque.

Thomas says, "My lord Ambassador we have come to enquire as to the disposition
of house Atreides in respect to the new "Palazzo virus" which seems to be going
around? We are both Suk certified free of infection"
Thomas says, "How fares your House?"

Siegfried grin badly and touch his shoulder when Iason mention the security...

Iason thinks for a moment. "It goes well, for the most part. So far I too am
certified free, though the Lady Helen seems to be a bit ill as of late.

Thomas frowns, "Indeed that is unfortunate. I hope the the Lady Alethia is well
with her pregnancy one should be carfull.

Iason nods once. "So far, she is fine, though pregnancy.. does not sit as well
with her as it does with others, as the night's climax proved.

Siegfried says, "indeed...I hope though that Lady"

Siegfried says, "Helen will be all right"

Thomas nods in understanding, "That is true but that is hardly the first time a
lady has ..reacted to danceing with the Baron Harkonnen.

You say, "So we hope, Baron Ryoden."

Iason turns to Thomas. "And about that matter, I fear that I cannot say.

Siegfried says, "send her my best wishes of rapid healing..."

Iason nods once. "That I will do."

Thomas grins, "of course. Send my best wishes as well. I truly did enjoy the
party.

Iason's head bobs again. "That can be arranged. May I offer the two of you
refreshments while you are here?

Thomas looks to Siegfried

Siegfried says, "At least the security was good...Nopose smiles "In this times
of need, any refreshment is a gift of God...""

Thomas nods about the need for a drink

Iason gestures towards the doors. "Then if you would follow me...

Hall of the Palladium -- Atreides Embassy (Kaitain)
This is the central hall of the Atreides Embassy. It is thirty meters long by
fifteen wide. The space is covered by a ceiling vault suported on white
columns, about ten meters high. The Hall feels cool and spacious, in part due
to the four fountains that mark the compass points, in part because the walls
end about five meters below the ceiling, allowing plenty of natural light and
air to enter. The floor is of polished green-veined marble, as are the column
pedestals and capitals. Several leafy plants are allowed to grow here, some in
pots along the dark red walls, some creeping up screens and buttresses. In a
place of honor in the middle, under a stained glass solarium, is a display case
containing the Palladium.
Exits:
 Marble Arch <S> leads to Gymnasia -- Atreides Embassy (Kaitain) 
 Columned Arch <W> leads to Grand Foyer Euterpes -- Atreides Embassy (Kaitain) 
 Glass Swivel Door <N> leads to Embassy Office -- Atreides Embassy (Kaitain) 
 Heavy Brass Door <E> leads to The Atreidon -- Atreides Embassy (Kaitain)

Thomas walks in from Grand Foyer Euterpes through the Columned Arch.

Siegfried walks in from Grand Foyer Euterpes through the Columned Arch.

Siegfried says, "at least, the security here is well worth of the name...not
like the Moritani's"

Iason leads you two in. "We recently finished the gymnasium, which is open to
the use of any who are allowed in, not just those of our House."

Thomas looks around in thinnly suppressed awe, "This is truly a grand space, I
did not have the time to fully tak it in during the party.

Siegfried says, "A gymnasium? Sounds good..."

Iason gestures to the south.

You say, "That is the Gymnasia."

Siegfried says, "Can i? Would you do me the honor of...?"
Siegfried move around his right shoulder "i need a bit of exercise...My
shoulder is not in perfect shape yet..."

Iason waves a hand towards the Gym again. "Feel free. The suspensor-field
weight training equipment is newly in.

Siegfried walks to the south and passes through the Marble Arch.

Thomas looks toward the Ambassador, "After you Ambassador Merx.

You say, "To the Gymnasia or elsewhere?"

Siegfried walks in from Gymnasia through the Marble Arch.
Siegfried smiles "Anybody up for a little training with me, milords?"

Thomas smiles, "Which ever, Unfortunaly I can not excersise like I used to."
pats his cane

Your communicator signals an incoming connection.

Siegfried looks upon iason

Iason's hand goes to his communicator. "Just a moment, please." he pleads,
before answering the comm.

Connection has been established.

Over your communicator, a man's voice says, "Baron Bajazet and Sultana Sarina
awaiting clearance, to present gifts to the Noble Lady Helen Atreides."

Into your communicator, you say, "I will be there in just a second, my lord
Baron."

You break the communication connection.

Thomas says, "However don't let my injury prevent the two of you from enjoying
what I'm sure is a fine gymnasium."

Siegfried says, "no problem..."

Iason disconnects the communicator channel, and bows. "If the Ambassador will
excuse me, I will meet you in the Gymnasia. The Siridar-Baron Bajazet is
waiting to deliver some gifts for the Lady, and I must go welcome them.

Siegfried says, "of course..."

Mintor has connected.

Siegfried walks to the south and passes through the Marble Arch.

Thomas says, "If I may Ambassador Merx, I would like to accompany you if I
might"

Iason gestures to the door. "Then we shall.

Thomas walks to the west and passes through the Columned Arch.

Grand Foyer Euterpes -- Atreides Embassy (Kaitain)
Players:
 Thomas                                             Sarina 
 Sha'ara'diin                                      
Objects:
 Harkonnen Limosine                                
Exits:
 Colonnade <W> leads to Sheuset Square -- Embassy District (Kaitain) 
 Columned Arch <E> leads to Hall of the Palladium -- Atreides Embassy (Kaitain)

Stepping lightly down the stairs, Iason easily folds himself into a deep
genuflection upon stopping at ground level, towards the Siridar-Baron and the
na-Baroness. "Baron Sha'ara'diin, na-Baroness Sarina. Tis indeed an honor to
greet you here in our humble Embassy this eve, especially with the gifts you
bring.

Thomas bows with the most proper of respects

Sarina curtsies deeply, smiling slightly as she does so, "My Lord honors us
with his greeting. We merely wish to pay our respects, alibit late, to the Lady
Helen. Alas, business prevented us from attending the party thrown in her
honor."

Sha'ara'diin, himself, sweeps into a low bow with his usual aplomb, then
replies as he straitens, "Ah good Earl Merx, well met, I am soory that business
called me away so that I could not attend the grand event." A slight tinge of
regret hangs about the words as he speaks.

Iason shakes his head. "At least it was unmarred by the events that struck the
Moritani Masquerade, which you also, thankfully, missed - many of those who
attended and saw the poisoning have fallen ill lately.

A frown etches it's way across Sha'aradiin's brow, hazel eyes swirling to a
stormy shade of windswept grey. He steals a glance at his sister before piping
up, "Yes, we have heard of this affliction that seems to have spread like
fueled fire through the Count's guests, has there been any news as to it's
cause?"

Iason shakes his head. "Naught but rumors.

You say, "It could be the poison, or it could be something else entirely.. we
know not, and the Suks are baffled."

Sarina sighs slightly, "Perhaps the rumors should be investigated? Many rumors
have a kernel of truth to them, perturbations on the original story."

Sha'ara'diin shakes his head slightly, with a slight shrug, "And how fares the
Good Duke and his Grace's family throughout this? I do hope they have remained
well?" A slight nod indicates his agreement with his sister's assesment.

Iason shakes his head again. "They are being looked into, though the Duke
himself has fallen ill, and the Lady Helen is a bit uneasy.

Thomas says, "I'm sorry my lords, forgive my interuption. Allow me to intoduce
my self. Siridar-Baron, na-Baroness, I am Thomas Steiner, Baronet of Tharkad,
and diplomat of House Ginaz. It is truly a pleasure to finally met you."

Smile tugging at his lips, the Baron again bows, "A pleasure to meet at last My
Lord." he replies silkily. Turning his attention back to the Earl for a moment,
Sha'ara'diin again frowns, saying, "Please convey our wishes of returned health
to his Grace."

You say, "I will do so, my lord Baron. In the meantime, do either of you wish
to join us for refreshments and perhaps a tour of our new public facilities?"

Sha'ara'diin bobs his head once, his smile widening, "I would indeed be
honoured, My Sister and I have not yet had the peasure of visiting His Grace's
Embassy here."

With a grand sweep of his arm, Iason points towards the doors. "If everyone
would follow me....

Arn walks in from Hall of the Palladium through the Columned Arch.

Iason starts up the stairs nimbly, leading the way through opened doors, the
Bajazet party and Ambassador Steiner in tow.

The corner of his eye espying the junior diplomat, Sha'ara'diin grins affably,
then follows the Earl as bidden.

Hall of the Palladium -- Atreides Embassy (Kaitain)
Exits:
 Marble Arch <S> leads to Gymnasia -- Atreides Embassy (Kaitain) 
 Columned Arch <W> leads to Grand Foyer Euterpes -- Atreides Embassy (Kaitain) 
 Glass Swivel Door <N> leads to Embassy Office -- Atreides Embassy (Kaitain) 
 Heavy Brass Door <E> leads to The Atreidon -- Atreides Embassy (Kaitain)

Sarina walks in from Grand Foyer Euterpes through the Columned Arch.

Sha'ara'diin walks in from Grand Foyer Euterpes through the Columned Arch.

Arn walks in from Grand Foyer Euterpes through the Columned Arch.

Thomas walks in from Grand Foyer Euterpes through the Columned Arch.

Arn follows in tow at a distance, concentrating on some rolls of documents he
is carrying with him - a few of them opened - but nevertheless manages to bow
deeply to the gathered nobles.

Iason points towards the newly refinished marble archway in the south end.
"That is the gymnasia, open for the use of all. We have track facilities,
sparring equipment, weight-training, aerobic, and aquatic activities provided
for.

Thomas nods to his Atreides counterpart

Sarina looks around quite curiously, but lets Iason lead the group.

Sha'ara'diin's eyes sparkle with layers of barely contained interest, "Ah this
does sound like quite a commendable facility, My Lord."

Arn looks up from his studies to greet Thomas with a likewise nod. He produces
a fountain pen from somewhere within that mass of paper and manages to start
scribbling. Offering Iason an apology for being late Arn starts to take notes.

You say, "To the west is the Foyer that you were all just in, the east holds
the Atreidon for meetings, and the north has our offices and the other two
meeting rooms; the Jadduanon and the Tantalon, named after House Atreides' past
fiefs.. and the traditional view that our House has held is that healthy minds
are often reflective of the state of the body, so provide the facilities within
which to refine both."

Nodding in understanding, the Baron offers, "This is often the case, although,
I do have knowledge of some few individuals who's mental prowess far exceeds
their physical." As he speaks the Baron casts a wary eye over his Sister, then
smiles indulgently in her direction.

Iason nods once. "Indeed, my Lord. However, healthy pyons are happy pyons."

Arn smiles faintly as he writes this wise exchange down.

Sha'ara'diin chuckles softly, "That is so, that is just so."

Sarina smiles warmly back at her brother, before casting a curious gaze at Arn.

Iason asks, "Should we continue the tour? I can summon servants to the
gymnasia, while we show our facilities off...

Arn notices that someone has her eyes upon him, glances up and discovers who.
He takes a discreet step in Sarina's direction and delivers the theatrical
whisper that, "It is for the leaflets, my Lady." He then returns to his task,
preparing to follow the group onwards.

Thomas glances at the Ambassador then differs to his betters

Sha'ara'diin smiles agreeably, "Lead on, my good Earl, lead on." The Baron
turns for a moment then states, "Master Celestine, it is a pleasure to meet
again." genuine warmth creeps it's way into his rich baritone.

Iason makes a hand gesture to a passing servant, before leading the way into
the Gym.

Gymnasia -- Atreides Embassy (Kaitain)
Simple and spartan, as befits the style of House Atreides, this room is large
and spacious enough to allow the enjoyment of athletic pursuits. A tall ceiling
and relatively open area, free for the use of all, perhaps best symbolizes part
of House Atreides' heritage and history. Fairness. Equality. Achievement.
A sunken four-lane wide running track circles the edges of this rectangular
room of marble, surrounding the large open area in the center of the room. In
the very center of the room is a large swimming pool for the aquatically
inclined, flanked by sparring and a weight training areas. The east and west
walls have doors to changing rooms with lockers, separated into male and female
spaces respectively, in accordance with present day mores. The walls are
decorated with bas-relief carvings of several athletic events, though the
pillars themselves are padded to prevent accidents. The floor is also padded
save around the pool area, and a rack of pugil sticks stands ready by the
wrestling ring should the combatants feel the need to practice their duelling.
Players:
 Mintor                                             Siegfried
Exits:
 Marble Arch <N> leads to Hall of the Palladium -- Atreides Embassy (Kaitain)

Iason steps through the archway, leading the Bajazet/Ginaz party.

Sha'ara'diin walks in from Hall of the Palladium through the Marble Arch.

Sarina walks in from Hall of the Palladium through the Marble Arch.

Arn walks in from Hall of the Palladium through the Marble Arch.

Sha'ara'diin follows hot on the heels of Iason, his eyes raking across his
surroundings with intent interest.

Mintor backs off. He grins to Seigfried, drawing his boken back low to his
right. He stops still, waiting for seigfried to recover.

Iason raises his voice, leading the way over the bridge. "This is the gymnasia.
The track is sunken into the ground some 2 meters, around the edges of the
facility itself, with the core of our sparring, exercising, and swimming areas
in the center here.

Siegfried gets up "Seems we got visitors..."

Siegfried sponge his face with his left arm...

Arn looses whatever thread he was following in his writing and looks up again
as he is being addressed, almost bumping into the Marble Arch as he enters. He
simply bows to the Siridar Baron, with an honest smile that expresses his
shared pleasure, then turns to Sarina. "We will be spreading leaflets in
selected parts of the town, advertising this newly opened establishment. Your
brother's wise words will be make a most enticing addition to it."

Mintor shakes his head, slight and slow in his movement. His grin reamins and
his posture "En garde."

A few servants drift in with cups of water, juice, and alcoholic refreshments.
Iason then glances at his communicator, at some silent signal. "If you will
excuse me, it seems we are quite busy tonight...

Sha'ara'diin inclines his head, suitably impressed, "Impressive, impressive
indeed." Upon gaining the attention of the room's other occupants, the Baron
sweeps again into a low bow, "My Lord, Your Grace, 'tis an honor."

Iason bows to Mintor, before turning quickly to depart for the exit.

Siegfried use a traditionnal garde this time, his sword just in front of him...

Grand Foyer Euterpes -- Atreides Embassy (Kaitain)
Players:
 Juseppe                                           
Objects:
 Harkonnen Limosine                                
Exits:
 Colonnade <W> leads to Sheuset Square -- Embassy District (Kaitain) 
 Columned Arch <E> leads to Hall of the Palladium -- Atreides Embassy (Kaitain)

Juseppe bows.

Iason steps out quickly, answering the summons.

Juseppe stands back up, "I would wish permission to enter your embassey."
Karin comes from the Sheuset Square.

Iason bows deeply to both the Venhei warmaster and the newcomer. "It is
granted, Warmaster. I trust you are well? And LAdy Hansen, a pleasure to see
you this eve."

Juseppe beams verbally, "Ohh it is now Chancellor."

Karin smiles and courtseys. "Thank you, m'lord," she answers.

You say, "Congratulations then, Chancellor. I am in the middle of a tour of the
new public gymnasium.. if you two would follow me?"

Juseppe bows to karin, and returns to Iason, "Thank you... sure."

You say, "Follow me, please..."

Karin walks in from Grand Foyer Euterpes through the Columned Arch.

Juseppe walks in from Grand Foyer Euterpes through the Columned Arch.

Juseppe walks to the south and passes through the Marble Arch.

You say, "Southwards.."

Gymnasia -- Atreides Embassy (Kaitain)
Players:
 Juseppe                                            Sarina 
 Arn                                                Sha'ara'diin 
 Mintor                                             Siegfried
Exits:
 Marble Arch <N> leads to Hall of the Palladium -- Atreides Embassy (Kaitain)

Karin walks in from Hall of the Palladium through the Marble Arch.

Arn waves with his writing hand, "Please, my Lord, call me Arn." The movement
makes the fountain pen bleed black ink on his fingers. "I have been spared from
illness, it seems," he continues while a pink tongue quickly travels over his
lips, "only because duties have kept me from visiting the honorable social
gatherings were it started."

Siegfried smiles "Unfortunatly, I really must go...

Juseppe walks in with his cane tapping the grounsd with each step.

Iason leads Chancellor Juseppe and Lady Hansen in, glancing about to see if the
servers have been offering drinks.

Siegfried has disconnected.

Mintor blushes slightly "My prowess is amplified by your timely arrival. You
missed the preceeding scene in which my arms left me for a new life."

Arn quietly swivels around on one heel, the one firmly placed on a small smear
of ink on the floor, to bow to the newcomers.

Sha'ara'diin chuckles softly, replying, "Yes I must admit that Sin'Vaari Bey
has left me such a few times myself. Eyes lighting upon the newest arrivals,
the Baron once again folds himself into an elegant bow.

Karin's head swivels as she first steps in, eyes taking in the large, open
gymnasium. She pauses then as she sees the other people in the room, and
courtseys

Sarina curtises deeply to the new arrivals, mimicing her brother's grace.

Juseppe gracefully bows, "Lords and Ladies."

Mintor greets the new arrivals with a gallant bow, and of course a grin.

Iason leads the pair towards the rest of the group. "I trust that you have been
keeping them well occupied, Mintor?"

Mintor chuckles to the Lord Earl "I have m'lord. I find my time better spent
here than battling the paper monsters with which others must perforce wrestle."

Iason raises a brow.

Siegfried has connected.

Siegfried is now set 'Out-of-Character.'

Siegfried walks to the north and passes through the Marble Arch.

A slight grimace, followed by a low chuckle erupts from the Baron's lips before
he speaks, "But then some of us are cursed with both, eh?" he banters amiably.

Sarina smiles slightly at that, "I relieve some of that burden from you,
brother, giving you plenty of time for other pursuits."

Mintor flashes a grin to the Baron "I am blessed with a brother who has largely
shielded me from the paper demons."

Iason inclines his head, as he walks over, plucking a glass of water off a
tray.

Arn puts his pen between his teeth, nodding in accordance with Mintor's
appreciation of paperwork, and subtly wipes his fingers on his black coat, then
tries to make some order out of the bundle of partly unrolled scrolls he is
carrying.

Mintor nods, then bows with a flourish to the Lady Sarina.

Sha'ara'diin shakes his head in mock defeat, "Would I were still protected from
those same demons myself, fortunatly I have my dear sister to aid me."

Karin quirks a half-smile at the na-Duke's banter. She spares a glance in Arn's
direction as he muddles with ink and paper. Her fingers rub together in silent
empathy, as though they too were covered with ink.

Mintor chuckles "Some think power an object of lust. Those who bear its burdens
know its darker side."

"You are well then, Lady Hansen?" Iason asks solicitiously, glancing around to
see if all have their drinks.

Mintor lightheartedly snatches a tall frosted glass from a passing servant. He
raises the glass "Welcome to you all."

Karin reaches out for a glass of water from a tray held by a passing servant.
"I am, m'lord," she answers with a courtsey. "I trust my lord Earl is well,
also?"

You say, "Well enough, unlike many who attended the Moritani ball."

Arn raises an eyebrow to one of the servants who hurries over with a glass. Arn
presses most of the scrolls flat under one arm as he accepts it, making ready
for the toast.

Juseppe snaps his fingers at a servant... and takes a glass of water.

Sarina gingerly accepts the cup from a servant, smiling politely as she
does so.

Sha'ara'diin accepts a light white wine from one of the trays, taking a tiny
sip, savoring the vintage's bouquet, before taking a firmer druaght from the
goblet. Inquisative, the desert bred Sultan asks softly, "So there are no
concrete clues as to how this affliction has struck?"

Karin nods, pursing her lips together. "And to think that I was disappointed
that my duties kept me from it," she says, shaking her head. "My House has
reacted quite strictly to this...inconvenience. It is a rare acknowledgment of
the high regard we have for your House that I was allowed to tour your
gymnasium today."

Arn sips on his wine, a pearly white, while listening to the conversation and
softly waving his other hand behind his back to air-dry it. The pen, forgotten,
slides from his lips and clatters to the floor.

Iason sips at his water. "None, save that it happened to those who attended the
Ball... perhaps it could be related to the poison that struck down Lord
Melchiorre."

Juseppe leans on his cane it looks about not knowing what is going on.

Mintor looks pensive as he listens to the conversation.

Dark storms of discomfort rage like small tempests through Sha'ara'diin's grey
toned, hazel eyes, as small lines of worry trace and etch themselves into the
man's skin near the corners of his eyes, and above his brows. "This affliction
seems too 'convenient' to be of natural origins."

You say, "I suggest poison, myself. It seems convenient that those who attended
the Moritani ball are the only ones afflicted.... then those who are in close
contact with the afflicted..."

Sarina nods empatically, "I agree, far too convenient. If it were natural, rest
assured I would have caught it by now."

Juseppe sighs, "Hmmm I guess I was unaffected by the Moritani ball."

Mintor says, "We are used to dealing with man-scaled enemies. Beasties tinier
than vision that can multiply are a most insidious threat."
Mintor looks to Shar'ara'diin solemnly.

Arn smiles apologetically to noone in particular and bends to pick his pen back
up, but it has bounced away a few feet on the padded floor and he has to
stretch to reach it since he doesn't seem to want to abandon the ink-smudge
with his foot. Someone might slip and fall, which would be a scandal. The
stretch turns into a split as dark-flecked and trembling fingers reach for the
illusive piece of writing equipment.

Sha'ara'diin bobs his head in agreement with the Na-Duke, "Aye, I have no
fondness for these sort of invaders, for they can do more harm to House
Bajazet's most precious treasure then ought else." The weight of his worry
clings to his words like a heavy mantel.

Iason silently edges towards the na-Baroness, as if responding to the Baron's
worry.

Karin glances in Sarina's direction, looking her up and down. She smiles a
little.

Sarina reaches out a soothing hand to her brother's arm, "You need not worry
about me, I will avoid contact with any infected person."

Mintor nods "Not merely to your house, M'lord. Such beasties are not selective
like a blade. They gain a mind of their own once they are launched. Then
there's the devil to pay."
Mintor pauses then continues "They are in a way of a kind to nuclears. Beasties
unleashed consume the innocent."

Iason nods again. "Indeed. Healthy minds in healthy bodies." he repeats. "There
is not just the physical danger here we must be wary of, but of the
psychological disadvantages.. especially should the Landsraad Houses begin to
distrust one another, for fear of contagion...

Sha'ara'diin's frown deepens at Iason's words.

Mintor looks to Iason and nods "True."

Juseppe grimices at the thought of more sickness.

Karin shifts her weight from one foot to another as she listens to this
discussion. Her eyes focus on the glass of water in her hand. "It is a
concern," she allows quietly.

Iason nods to Karin's words.

Juseppe looks back towards everyone, "Well we should stop talking about such
unpleasant fears..."

Iason nods. "On with the tour?" he suggests.

Mintor after a pause remarks abstractedly " ... Making a nuke is a complex
matter, requiring skill and technology that can be easily identified. Bugs are
little different from brewer's yeast...."

Jolted out of his glowering reverie by the Earl's suggestion, Sha'ara'diin nods
his silent consent, then offers an arm to Sarina.

Iason inclines his head to the Baron, and drains his glass before mirroring the
Baron's motion.

Mintor shakes his head to bannish his morbid thoughts. He smiles and bows as
the guests proceed.

Arn has dried himself, retrieved his pen and ordered his scrolls. He moves to
follow the group.

Mintor shakes his blade threateningly at Arn as he skitters away.

Sarina smiles slightly at her brother, before taking Iason's arm instead,
affording her brother the barest of winks.

Iason inclines his head to the Baron, then says something softly in Aglicon
before leading the way towards the pool.

Shaking his head slightly, and chuckling softly, Sha'ar withdraws, allowing
Iason to escort the Sultana.

Karin courtseys as she follows after Iason. Her brows arch a little as both of

Sarina's arms are claimed, then she smiles. Allowing a wide berth between
herself and Mintor, she too heads toward the pool.

Using Aglicon, Iason says, "Mintor, could you see that the Lady Hansen has a
proper escort?"
Using Aglicon, Iason says, "I suggest Arn, myself."

Using Aglicon, Mintor says, "My pleasure."

Using Aglicon, Iason says, "Unless you'd rather the honor."

Iason offers all a genteel smile as he starts the party onwards towards the
center, through the sparring area.

Using Aglicon, Mintor says, "Arn, got the cue?"

Using Aglicon, Arn says, "I stand back to my na-Duke."

Juseppe moves towards the pool with each of his steps being led by the cane.

Arn hesitates, looking from Iason to Mintor.

Using Aglicon, Mintor says, "go for it, my friend. My romantic life is full to
overflowing."

Sha'ara'diin's footfalls make little sound as he makes his way over to the
pool. He stops, then seems to ponder the small body of water for a moment
before enquiring, "So this is a pool for swimming only? No pools for soaking
and washing or the sort? Or is that a purely Ottoman tradition?"

Mintor steps to the weapons rack to replace the boken.

Arn takes a few rapid steps to hurry up alongside Karin and courteously offers
her his arm - the one without smudges.

Iason inclines his head to Arn slightly, nodding a bit as Arn approaches Karin,
perhaps with approval. "The pool is the largest of the exercise areas."

Karin purses her lips and arches her brows as she walks along behind the Earl,
the Sultana and the Siridar Baron, the na-Duke also waling along with them. Her
arms cross in front of her as she glances from one to another as they speak
among themselves. Then as Arn approaches her, she courtseys, and smilingly
accepts his arm.

Sarina looks with some interest at the pool, "I find pools to be quite
relaxing. I think all great Houses should have them."

Juseppe nods to Sarina's words.

Mintor busies himself with the maintenance and arrangement of the practice
weapons.

"They provide excellent exercise, as well as serving to lighten the burdens of
command?" Iason suggests slyly.

Mintor looks to the Lady Sarina with a nod. "Yes, soothing, m'lady. Each
exercise stretches a different human attribute."

Arn addresses Karin in a low voice, as not to disturb the group ahead of them,
"I hope you will excuse my tardiness, Lady Hansen, but the documents I work
with sometimes seems to have a life of their own, as if they were unborn paper
swallows." He smiles self-ironically-

Mintor glances over his shoulder with a grin "Arn has proved himself tha Hawk
among the paper swallows. I caution you not to seem a memo in his presence."

Karin responds in a similarly low voice, a chuckle in her words. "I quite
understand, sir," she assures the man. "I have much the same troubles." She
displays a hand with the peculiar bumps of one well-accustomed to writing much.
A quiet laugh follows. "I quite understand," she repeats.

Juseppe sighs, "I wish we of Venhei had effecient writers as you seem to have."

Arn listens to Karin's tale and nods sympathetically, then turns to his
na-Duke, the smile already playing on his lips lingering. "I am no hawk. But
since I remember having a polite argument about the nature of birds with Lady
Helen I will agree to the honor of being a sparrow-hawk, my Lord." Facing Karin
again he adds, "A bird traditionally released to the hunt by clergymen, and
ladies. Most fittingly."

Iason listens, as he escorts Sarina over to the pool's edge.

Mintor grins back to Arn. He turns to the Lady Karin "The Atreides paper Hawk
is note for his unassuming colors... and his fierce heart. There is a precios
prize on thy wrist, m'lady."

Sha'ara'diin smiles quietly at the play of words swirling around him, before
asking softly, "So then have you theraputic baths then for relaxation and
such?"

Juseppe moves around to look near the pool more, "May I ask how you got this
water so clear, m'lords?"

Iason gestures towards the directions of the change rooms. "Separate ones by
gender."

(OOC) Mintor says, "they make me strain it through my teeth."
(OOC) Sarina dies!
(OOC) Sha'ara'diin rolls!
(OOC) Mintor says, "explains all the grins."
(OOC) Juseppe says, "I hope someone didn't put there baby in there to take a
pee."

Sha'ara'diin nods to the Earl, seeming satisfied at the answer.

Karin smiles Mintor's way. "I doubt it not, m'lord," she replies.

Iason glances at Juseppe. "It is strained through Mintor's teeth of course." he
deadpans. "But seriously, the water is cleaned through several processes..."

Sarina tries not to laugh, keeping her gaze fixated on the water, "Perhaps we
should offer tours of our complex, brother."

Juseppe chuckles slightly, "ahh I see.... He seems quite up to the duty."

(OOC) Juseppe says, "sort of..."
(OOC) Iason says, "This would be good for the reader's log if anyone doesn't
object."

Arn acknowledges Mintor's grace with a quiet bow when the na-Duke has already
turned to other matters, glancing at Karin as he straightens with a corner of
his mouth touched by a sincere smile.

Mintor offers Karin a gently conspiratorial wink "My friend Arn, is too ready
to see his own flaws, real or not, and too hesitant to admit his virtues.
Undoubtedly the result of a sober upbringing."

You say, "The pool is about 5 meters at its deepest, which is usually enough
for the dives performed at it."

Arn chuckles and shakes his head. "Now, why this sudden praise, Lord? You did
not sound thus this morning when I had the customary sword-drill."

Iason glances at Sarina. "Do you by chance indulge in a daily swim, my Lady?"

Mintor laughs softly in response to Arn "Your blade skills improve daily, but
surely you don't expect me to admit that."

Arn says, "Perhaps I am better cut out for the paper-knife, then?"

Juseppe leans on his cane, and looks to Arn, "Don't worry young one... I am
usually without a blade and I was a Warmaster."

Mintor looks serios, for a moment at least. "Balance in all things, my friend.
The long blade teaches lessons as does the slitter. Balance."

Sha'ara'diin chuckles again, then shifts his weight slightly, relaxing into a
less rigid stance. He nods at Juseppe's words, admitting, "My sword has seen
little practice of late, as I am always dueling with the pen."

Arn says, "Worry, sir," with a slight but friendly mocking tone to his voice.
"That is all I do. Then," he adds, "you fighting men should perhaps worry too,
since the edge of a paper often cut deeper than steel."

Mintor nods to Arn "There is an ancient saying in the weapons schools 'Bunbu
itchi' -- it means 'Pen and sword in accord."

Juseppe chuckles at Arn, "Well That son, is why we old soldiers become
Chancellors... and start warring with a pen."

Sha'ara'diin bobs his head in agreement, "It does seem that the more I age, the
more I war with pen and document, I can scarce find time for my rides of late."

You say, "It is a curse of rank and privilege."

Arn clears his throat and improvises,

"Ruffled sparrow
Hawk of paper
Cuts quite quickly
To the point
Drenched by water
From the ink-pot
Searches solace
By the sun."

He finishes by turning to Karin and bowing, clearly indicating the inspiration
for his sun.

Sarina arches an eyebrow, "Rosa will never forgive you if you continue to
neglect that particular task, dear brother."

Mintor flashes a grin to the Baron "Horseback provides a special perspective on
life."

Juseppe nods to Sha'ara'diin's words, "M'Baron Sultan, Would it be possible for
a ride at a later date?"

Karin smiles as Arn bows her way and courtseys in return, faint color on her
cheeks. "Nicely said, sir," she murmurs.

Mintor caught off guard by the improvisation, starts, then is still. He turns
half to Arn and bows.

Iason pauses to clap his hands.

A grin splitting his face, Sha'ara'diin nods his agreement, "Of course, I would
be more then honored to host a tour of our stables."

Arn gently shakes his head to the praise, answering Karin, "Not at all, my
Lady. Whatever I am it is seldom nice for nicety's sake. I can only abide by
truth."

A quick smile forms on Juseppe's face, "m'lord Baron A tour of your facilites
would be grand."

Over your communicator's secure frequency, a man's voice says, "Message from
vehicle 2029, bound for Atreides Embassy, requesting clearance, "Lord Josef of
Stalinsky and Ambassador Zhia Ignamort respectfully request clearance to enter
the embassy of the noble Atreides.""

Mintor grins to the Diridar Baron "Could I also impose on your hospitality. It
has been a long time away from the back of a beast."

You clear the vehicle over your communicator.
Over your communicator's secure frequency, a man's voice says, "Clearance has
been granted for vehicle 2029, bound for the Atreides Embassy, by Iason."

Iason's communicator beeps. "It appears we have company." he announces.
"Rastanyevs."

Sha'ara'diin nods to Mintor, replying quickly, "Of course, Your Grace, my
invitation stands open to all My Lords and Ladies."

Karin smiles a little. "Ah, the truth," she murmurs. "An elusive prey."

Mintor says, "You are most gracious, my lord Baron.""

You say, "Indeed, my Lord Baron."

(OOC) Sha'ara'diin is still wiped out from the cross country drive, so needs to
pose out soon before he nods off at the keyboard..

<Atreides> Demosthenes has disconnected.

(OOC) Sarina hehs, and has to leave too, work early in the am.

(OOC) Mintor is similarly constrained.

Sha'ara'diin waves his left hand dismissively, "Feh, tis naught, I cannot think
of more pleasant company, eh?"

(OOC) Karin is too. :)

Arn inclines his head in thanks to Sha'ara'diin's invitation, but he is really
not all too focused on what they are doing. With a glitter to his eyes he says,
"Then try loosening me to the hunt for it sometime, my Lady."

(OOC) Iason says, "Alright."
(OOC) Arn says, "Understandable. Pose yourselves to bed, then. :)"
(OOC) Iason says, "Two more incoming anyhow."
(OOC) Mintor suggests a grand climax- we all jump into the pol and cut- leaving
something to the imagination.
(OOC) Sha'ara'diin laughs!
(OOC) Iason'll escort the lassie out. =) WE'll save that for next day. ;)
(OOC) Sarina giggles.
(OOC) Sha'ara'diin grins
(OOC) Mintor grins too.
(OOC) Arn says, "Okay, you take Lassie, I'll follow the ladies to the door."

A quick sound comes over Juseppe's com. He picks it up and listens and speaks
back in before putting it away.

(OOC) Mintor barks and demands that we go save Timmy.
(OOC) Arn says, "How about that killer whale, whatever it's name was. Is it...
in.. the... pool?"

Sarina stifles a bit of a yawn, giving her hosts an apologetic smile, "My
apologies, but it has been a long and tiring day."
Mintor says, "Our house is your house. Be welcome."
Iason inclines his head. "It is quite alright..." he says understandingly.

Mintor escorts the guests to the door.
Mintor has disconnected.

Sha'ara'diin steps up beside his sister, keeping a carefull eye on her as he
makes his way to the exit.

Sha'ara'diin stops once, then bows, "My Lords, My Lady, I bid you a good
evening, and heartfelt thanks for the good company."

Sarina rests a hand on her brother's arm for support, quickly slipping out of
the room.

Sarina walks to the north and passes through the Marble Arch.

Sha'ara'diin walks to the north and passes through the Marble Arch.

Demosthenes walks in from Hall of the Palladium through the Marble Arch.

Zhia walks in from Hall of the Palladium through the Marble Arch.

Arn offers Karin his arm again, if she seeks to retire and be escorted to her
car.

Demosthenes clears his throat as he enters. He claps his hands twice to attract
the attention of those in the room. "May I present, his Lordship, Josef
Stalinski, and the Ambassador Zhia Ignamort."

Arn ignores the Rastanyev.

Josef walks in from Hall of the Palladium through the Marble Arch.

Iason bows to the new arrivals. "Demos. Lady Iganamort. Lord Stalinski."

Karin accepts Arn's arm with a courtsey. "Thank you, sir. I do need to get back
to my own 'paper birds'."

Demosthenes bows once, and then bobs up. He favors the lady Karin with a smile.
"Ah yes, once again, we meet. Lady Karin, the... fifth most beautiful woman in
all the world?"

Zhia dives into a graceful bow, "Good evening Lord Merx, I hope all is well
with you?"

Iason turns to Karin and bows again. "Till later, Lady Hansen. It has been a
pleasure to have your company here this eve."

Josef returns the polite bow. "Good eve, Lord Ambassador Merx..."

Karin smiles at the Earl from where she stands with Arn. "Thank you, m'lord."
Then she turns to Demosthenes. "Sixth," she corrects him, then winks. Turning
back to Arn, she asks, "Shall we, sir?"

Iason nods. "I trust you are well?"

Arn says, "After you, my Lady. And your paper birds will surely turn to
butterfly stamps when you touch them."

Zhia releases a smile, "I am just fine m'Lord."

Demosthenes chuckles quietly, "Don't sell yourself short, Lady Hansen. You're
moving up in the world." He winks at her, "I won't say who's been bumped."

Karin laughs, a musical sound, as she drops a courtsey in Demosthenes'
direction, then sashays towards the gymasium's exit.

Karin walks to the north and passes through the Marble Arch.

Arn walks to the north and passes through the Marble Arch.

Josef looks about the room as he takes a gentle puff on his cigar.

Zhia emulates Josef as she takes a look around the room, but without the cigar
of course.

Arn walks in from Hall of the Palladium through the Marble Arch.
After taking the cigar out of his mouth with the hand not currently escorting
the fine Lady Zhia, Josef says "A most impressive display, Lord Merx."
Arn returns, fait accomplit, to take his place near the rack of sticks and at a
slight distance from the group.

Zhia nods her head in agreement, "Very beautiful m'Lord."

Iason listens quietly, then inclines his head. "It is.. appropriate.

Demosthenes excuses himself politely from the discussion.
Demosthenes walks to the north and passes through the Marble Arch.

"Indeed..." Josef says as he takes another puff on his fine cigar.
Josef politely releases the Madam Ambassador, and bows to her slightly. "If you
would excuse me, Madam. I have to take care of something...I will be but a
moment."

Demosthenes walks in from Hall of the Palladium through the Marble Arch.

Zhia gives a polite bow back, "Of course Earl."

Iason listens quietly. "You are both well then?

Accompanying the young minister as he returns are a large number of servants,
all of them encumbered by trays bearing elaborate refreshments. Demosthenes
himself is at the center of this crowd, motioning and beckoning like a stage
director.

Zhia turns back toward Iason with a soft smile, "Yes m'Lord, we are both doing
fine you could say. Well for myself I could say at least."

Your communicator signals an incoming connection.

Iason nods once.

Over your communicator's secure frequency, a man's voice says, "Message from
vehicle 2029, bound for Atreides Embassy, requesting clearance, "Clearance
requested""

Demosthenes pauses in the middle of his complex directory work to answer his
communicator. There's a few whispered words, and he slaps the thing shut.

Demosthenes says something into his communicator.

Over your communicator's secure frequency, a man's voice says, "Clearance has
been granted for vehicle 2029, bound for the Atreides Embassy, by Demosthenes."

Josef moves toward Lord Merx and makes a polite request. "Might I have a word
with his Lordship?"

Demosthenes sighs a little, leavng the servants up to their own affairs. He
walks out to greet the most recent arrivals.
Demosthenes walks to the north and passes through the Marble Arch.

Arn speaks into his communicator.

Iason raises a brow. "Indeed.

Arn walks a little by himself over at the racks, then sighs and moves to the
exit, performing a hasty bow as he passes Iason and company.
Arn walks to the north and passes through the Marble Arch.

Josef takes a long puff on his cigar. "Lord Merx, a word with you if I may?"

You say, "Indeed."

Demosthenes walks in from Hall of the Palladium through the Marble Arch.

Thomas walks in from Hall of the Palladium through the Marble Arch.

Cato walks in from Hall of the Palladium through the Marble Arch.

Thomas limps into the Gymnasium with a touch of saddness

Iason bows as Cato and Thomas enter.

Zhia bows as the two enter.

Thomas bows to the lords and ladies

Josef turns to the two entering and gives a polite bow before returning his
attention to Lord Merx.

Cato crosses around the side of the swimming pool, and folds into a bow once
within range of the assembled nobility. He bows again to Zhia. "Good evening,
lords and lady." Formalities out of the way, however, he draws a hankerchief in
front of his nose and mouth, blocking them from sight.

Iason turns to Josef. "Yes?"

Thomas walks over to the assembled his cane clicking noticeably on the tiles of
the floor. "Well Ambassador Merx, I had to come back and finish the tour" he
calls as he approaches

Josef whispers, "I am afraid, my lord, that the Lady Ivanova has not had the
opportunity to hear compleatly your message or had time to meet with the noble
house Atreides. She is becoming more and more physically incapacitated these
days...perhaps a temporary sickness...perhaps not. Either way, I might suggest
taking matters into your own hands and forcing a meeting with her at our
Embassy."

Iason nods once to Ivanova, eyes narrowing a bit. "Understood." he replies.

Iason nods to Thomas. "We had ended at the pool.

Josef bows slightly, taking another puff on his cigar, before returning to
Ambassador Zhia's side.

Thomas looks to Demosthenes "I'm sorry I was called away so quickly from the
party the other night Please excuse my rudeness. I had an urgent call from my
daughter, something about a monster under her bed.

At the snap of his fingers, the liveried servants begin to set up the repulsor
croquet. Then, Demosthenes clears his throat once more. "Now, now, gentleman,"
he says, "Please partake of the refreshments, and we may all move on to a
rousing game of repulsor croquet." He beams at Thomas's remark, "No, no.
Absolutely no offense was taken, not by me, or by the incomparable Lady Helen."

Thomas nods and smiles

Zhia follows Josef as he walks back over toward her, greeting him with a soft
smile.

Josef's somewhat cold look seems momentarily melted by the lady's soft smile.
He his cigar out of his mouth, and smiles slightly, before regaining his
composure.

Demosthenes motions the rest of the nobles over to the rack where the
magnetically-enhanced mallets are stored. "Please, ladies, gentlemen. Take
one."

Thomas says, "I'm sorry Minister Demosthenes but I'm afraid that my leg is
particually troublesome today. I msu regretfully sit this one out."

Cato lightly drops his briefcase on a patio table, and nods amiably at the
suggestion of the equally incomparable game of repulsor corquet. He steps
forward to aquire his weapon, and takes a step back, so that he is standing
beside the Earl Stalinsky. Cato murmurs quietly something while inspecting his
mallet's balance and heft.

Iason shakes his head a bit, staying back.

Zhia gives a swift bow toward Demosthenes, "I'm sorry to say Minister

Demosthenes, but I must be going. Much bussiness to attend to still back at the
embassy."

Josef looks to Zhia, "Of course, Madam Posol. I will see you later then..."
Josef gives the lady a deep bow as she leaves.

Cato looks up from his mallet, and frowns unhappily towards Zhia, making the
universal face of "So soon?"

Upon raising from his bow to the Lady, he turns to Cato and mutters somthing
just below the audible threshhold of everyone else in the room.

Zhia gives a graceful bow to everyone present before exiting the Gymnasia.
Quickly turning toward Cato, "Yes m'Lord, I'm sorry to say. Work seems to never
end!"

Demosthenes presents mallets to whoever asks for them, and then bows low.
"Excuse me," he murmurs, "Another batch of guests are arriving." He smiles
brightly at the Lady Zhia, "Shall I accompany you to you vehicle, then?"

Iason bos to Zhia. "Till later, Ambassador."

Thomas moves to Ambassador Merx, "So sorry to have left such short notice
earlier, but the guild representative can't be kept waiting can he. Please
forgive my rudeness

Demosthenes hits the buttons on the beeping communicator until it stops.

Zhia reflects the bright smile toward Demosthenes, "That would be excellent
Minister Demosthenes." Zhia then gives one final bow to all before leaving.

Demosthenes offers his arm to the woman and walks her out.

Taking his arm, Zhia exits.

Demosthenes walks to the north and passes through the Marble Arch.

Zhia walks to the north and passes through the Marble Arch.

Cato smiles to himself quickly, and the raises his voice towards the departing
Demos. "I'm sorry, my lord, but I just remembered some pressing business Count
Steiner and I had at the Rastanyev embassy..." He turns to Josef. "If the Earl
in in need of a ride, my staffcar is at your disposal....

Thomas walks to the north and passes through the Marble Arch.

Josef takes a puff on his cigar and looks towards Cato with a kind of ironic
smile. After taking the cigar out of his mouth, he says, "Actually...I suppose
I should be getting home."

Iason bows as the nobles depart.

Josef bows to his host and seems to hold his glare upon Iason longer than he
should, before turning to leave with Cato and the rest of the entourage.

Cato raises an eyebrow at the irony, but leans over to drop the mallet back
into the bin from which it came. Cato steps over to snag his briefcase, and
then, completed, turns to smile towards the Earl.

Josef walks to the north and passes through the Marble Arch.

Cato walks to the north and passes through the Marble Arch.

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