A few logs....

[The Holtgrefe Family <holtgrf4@swbell.net>]

Greetings,

	I've been busy with school, so I haven't  had to get these logs out
until recently....  Here is two from July, and a new one from August.

				Bernh
Editor's Note:  After excusing himself from a conversation with the Bajazet Bernh returns to the Embassy, a bit frazzled.

Bernh looks like the medicine is wearing off, when a guard approaches and whispers in his ear...
You say, "Excuse me I am wanted... somewhere else..."
Bernh nods and makes his exit...
Courtyard -- Ginaz Embassy (Kaitain)
	Behind a wrought iron fence, with the seal of House Ginaz in the center of the gate and two one man guardhouses, lies the open courtyard of the Ginaz embassy. A road leads straight to the main entrance of the embassy, encircling a four story fountain. The lawn around the building is a dark green and groomed to perfection, with many pines and shrubs dotting the area, in tastefully arranged randomness. The embassy itself is at least thirty story structure designed like a giant six pointed Star of David. The building itself is made of a dark blue granite that is native only to the home-planet of the Ginaz. The embassy uses what would be considered a Gothic style with flying buttresses and windows all coming to a point. A 'thopter pad can be seen atop the building as well as the rotating colors of the crystal dome over the center of this gargantuan star.

Foyer -- Ginaz Embassy (Kaitain)
	The dark blue marble exterior of the embassy has seemingly desolved into a gleaming white marble with gray veins in a circular room. There are high arches and sweeping buttresses meeting the ground with Ionic style pillars made of black marble with gold veins. A ceiling extends to the very roof of the building. There is a kind of circle within a circle within a circle. The flying buttresses sweep out and come down in the exact center of the room ending in fourteen pillars. Between each of these pillars is a desk with an attendant seated. The second circle is considered the inner circle. This is made by a series of twenty-eight archways, which leave twenty feet between the arches and the real wall, at each of these pillars stands a Ginaz Out-world Guardsman in full-dress. 

Yous walk into the Staff Offices Wing.

Staff Offices Wing -- Ginaz Embassy (Kaitain)

        The hallway to the Staff offices wing is quite sterile and has few luxuries. It is essentially a hallway painted white but barren of fixures and windows. Several plants though can be seen in corners next to the doors.

Foyer -- Ginaz Embassy (Kaitain)
	The dark blue marble exterior of the embassy has seemingly desolved into a gleaming white marble with gray veins in a circular room. There are high arches and sweeping buttresses meeting the ground with Ionic style pillars made of black marble with gold veins. A ceiling extends to the very roof of the building. There is a kind of circle within a circle within a circle. The flying buttresses sweep out and come down in the exact center of the room ending in fourteen pillars. Between each of these pillars is a desk with an attendant seated. The second circle is considered the inner circle. This is made by a series of twenty-eight archways, which leave twenty feet between the arches and the real wall, at each of these pillars stands a Ginaz Out-world Guardsman in full-dress. 

Players:
 Dominic                                            Steffan

Bernh nods to all present...
Dominic nods towards Bernh "Greetings, Mentat"
Steffan bows, "very good, Herr Secretary....settling into your new position I see. "
Dominic says, "Very comfortably, My Lord. Thank You."
Bernh waves, like he is too shy or 'nerdy' to talk.
Dominic looks at Steffan with a troubled look on his face
Dominic speaks reluctantly "If I may, My Lord......"
Bernh starts talking to a shade, "I took the right doseage," Then smacks his head repeatedly, "Think think, the sapho of juice, mind, Mommy why are you dressed like a fremen?," then starts yelling, "get out of my mind you little goblin!"
Bernh starts pacing, "Twenty Solaris bill five and three ones!"
Dominic looks at Bernh strangely" Are you alright, Mentat"
Bernh looks at Dominic, "Why yes, hello, didn't catch your name, Mine is Bernh...."
Dominic looks at Bernh again "Mine is Dominic, how are you feeling today?
You say, "Twelve Monkeys, that's how I am feeling, and yourself? did the Enema help?"
You say, "if spice is called Geriatric, then is there a Euthanasiatic Spice?"
Dominic nods with a smile on his face "Of course. And I am feeling much better now"
You say, "If Baron Harkonnen ever asks you what time it is say, "I'm sorry, I'm straight, and no you may not touch my testicles," It really works..."
Dominic laughs "I will take that advice to heart"
Bernh looks puzzled at Dominic's laughter....
Dominic says, "Perhaps we could discuss the upcoming move to Marcinko?"
Bernh says almost too nonchalantly, "If a dog runs into the forest how far can he go?"
Dominic looks at Bernh curiously
Bernh seems like he is in a "mentat trance" waiting for Dominic's answer...
Dominic says, "He can run forever because no one is there to stop him"
Bernh tries again, "If a butcher is two meters tall what does he weigh?
Dominic looks strangely at Bernh again" I do not know"
Bernh looks at Dominic as if to say one last time, "If a ornithopter crashes in Kaitain, and its full of Ginaz personell where do they bury the survivors?"
Dominic begins to grow weary of the Mentat's babbling "On Marcinko"
Bernh laughs, "Okay, I'm hopeless, now let's get a frosty brew and go rape horses, and ride off on the women."
You say, "Hello..."

You walk through the Sliding Glass Doors.

Courtyard -- Ginaz Embassy (Kaitain)
	Behind a wrought iron fence, with the seal of House Ginaz in the center of the gate and two one man guardhouses, lies the open courtyard of the Ginaz embassy. A road leads straight to the main entrance of the embassy, encircling a four story fountain. The lawn around the building is a dark green and groomed to perfection, with many pines and shrubs dotting the area, in tastefully arranged randomness. The embassy itself is at least thirty story structure designed like a giant six pointed Star of David. The building itself is made of a dark blue granite that is native only to the home-planet of the Ginaz. The embassy uses what would be considered a Gothic style with flying buttresses and windows all coming to a point. A 'thopter pad can be seen atop the building as well as the rotating colors of the crystal dome over the center of this gargantuan star.

You walk into the foyer.

Foyer -- Ginaz Embassy (Kaitain)
	The dark blue marble exterior of the embassy has seemingly desolved into a gleaming white marble with gray veins in a circular room. There are high arches and sweeping buttresses meeting the ground with Ionic style pillars made of black marble with gold veins. A ceiling extends to the very roof of the building. There is a kind of circle within a circle within a circle. The flying buttresses sweep out and come down in the exact center of the room ending in fourteen pillars. Between each of these pillars is a desk with an attendant seated. The second circle is considered the inner circle. This is made by a series of twenty-eight archways, which leave twenty feet between the arches and the real wall, at each of these pillars stands a Ginaz Out-world Guardsman in full-dress. 

Bernh gives Dominic the finger as he heads east...

You walk through the Carved Glass Doors (E).

Gardens -- Ginaz Embassy (Kaitain)
	The gardens look as if a chunk of the Ginaz Homeworld Marcinko. The room itself is circular and fills the center of the Ginaz embassy all the way to the rotating colors of the crystal roof, and dimmed point of light that is the Marquis' sitting room. The walls are for the most part covered with the distinctive white Marcinko ivy, and at intermittent levels one can see balconies as well s windows the look directly into this area. The gardens are lush and green but the temperature is below normal. The room is a series of hills the culminates in one large hill that spawns a waterfall. The waterfall pools in a pond that must be fully one fourth the entire room. All different kinds of plant life populate these gardens, but all of them are native to Marcinko. The grass is thick and a dark green. The trees are mostly pines and a deep green, with the exception of the snow white Ginaz pine that dots the landscape. Atop the waterfall is a white marble island with a walkway of differing color marble that lead to it. 
     
You say, "Hello Old Master!"
You say, "Can I sniff your shoes without telling you that my feet stink?"
You say, "I'm sorry to say I've missed you all these years sweetheart...."
Srulin looks oddly at the Mentat who comes to his presence. He scruncches his facemaking young wrinklees appear on his forehead. "I'm sorry but are you ill, my good Mentat?"
You say, "if a dog runs into the forest how far can he go?"
Bernh farts a loud one...
Steffan walks in from Foyer through the Carved Glass Doors (E).
Steffan has arrived.
Srulin looks at the Mentat oddly as he raises his hand to fan the ruthless odour from his nose. "I'm sorry Mentat, but I'm sure you need to see a Suk."
Bernh sings, "Hi Hi Mr. Steffan Guy, maybe Vader sometime later now you're just a bald guy."
Bernh looks serenly at Srulin and asks, "If an ornithopter crashes on Kaitain, and its full of Ginaz where do they bury the survivors?"
Steffan strides in on his way back to the Hall when he sees his fellow Ginaz, Steffan blinks, "Mentatkanzler....are you feeling ok?"
Srulin blinks as if he were Steffan's twin. He still gazes at the Mentat without noticing Steffan in his presence.
Bernh looks at steffan and says, "Ahh the enema was grand tonight, but I seem to have replaced my kidney in the process..."
Bernh looks at both men, as if testing them.... "If a butcher is two meters tall what does he weigh?"
Steffan smiles upon seeing Srulin and brings his hands to Srulin's shoulders, "Dear Brother, I am pleased....." He pauses a moment at Bernh's comment and laughs through the rest, " to see you....not now ....but we must talk privately sometime....we have much to catch up with.."
Srulin grins to the Mentatkanzler knowing the answer to the question. "A butcher weighs meat." He says it happily but it dissapears once Steffan touches him on the shoulders.
Bernh looks at Steffan.... "A farmer has 17 sheep standing in a field and all but 9 drop down and die. How many sheep are left standing?"
Steffan grins, "we are just to sharp for you today, my good Mentat....Ornia on the other hand is not used to your jocularity....you should work on her next..."
Srulin happily answers Bernh's trivia. "The answer to that is 9, dear Mentat." He grins again and looks over to Stefan and noods at him and then to Bernh.
Bernh laughs hysterically....
Bernh coughs and seems to enter a trance, then falls to the floor, his nose is bleeding...
Steffan hrms, "if all but nine drop down.....then nine are left standing....."
Bernh looks hurt, and unconscious....
Srulin bends over to Bernh. "Oh my good Lord!" He tries to lift the mentats head and places his arm underneath for comfort. "Where's the Suk, brother?"
Steffan kneels down quickly to attend to the Mentat. "our Suk has alreadyleft forthe Homeworld....."
Bernh stirs.
Bernh looks at the two men, "Water, I need water....."
Steffan sighs and waves to one the the staff, "Bring some water for the Mentat..."
Srulin holds the mentats head and looks up to Steffan frighfully. He didn't want to move for he was supporting the head of the mentat.
Bernh groans softly as he waits for the water....
A Ginaz staffmember arrives with a pitcher and a goblet and pours some of the water into it. She then hands it to Steffan. "Bernh, drink this.....slowly...."
Bernh sips the water...
You say, "Thank you My Lord...."
You say, "Infiltrators..."
You say, "two of them, inside the house...."
You say, "A Foreign Mentat, planted them..."
Bernh gasps, "Let me sit down..."
Srulin bends over so his ear is parallel to the Mentat's mouth and he looks directly at Steffan. Hwee scrunches his face trying to place all the peices together. He lifts the mentat up carefully from the ground as he requested.
Bernh sits on a chair, and motions to get rid of any watching servants....
Steffan frowns, "infiltrators....who are this traitors Mentat?"
Srulin scans over to the watching servants and gives them a commanding look. "Please, he needs his privacy. Leave our presence immediately." He says as he points to all of them out to the exit. They bowed their hads and obeyed. He looks over to his brother as he questtions the Mentat.
Bernh looks weak, "Please milord, I am tired, I will tell you, but dismiss the staff here, it is for your ears, and Srulin's alone...."
Bernh waits.
After a time the servants leave and the doors are closed...
Steffan looks up at the departing staff.
You say, "My Lords...."
You say, "When I first arrived, I was to take over for the now retired Sidney...."
Srulin watches the servants depart theen focusses his attebtion towards Bernh.
You say, "Little did I know that Sidney was planted with a certain mental abberation, needless to explain more, he was using his skills to undermine our defenses..."
You say, "As you might have noticed, there was recently an obituary for our now ex-mentat in the Maricinko times not more than a week ago..."
You say, "And although he was retired living in a desolate spot far removed from any fighting, it was noted that during an autopsy, the cheif suk found traces of maula darts in his flesh...."
Srulin looks at the Mentat very interested in the subject. He interupts the mentat without thinking. "So the ex-Mentat has been murdered?"
Bernh looks at the two men waiting for their reaction....
You say, "Oh no, he died of "natural causes..""
Bernh waits for a reaction again...
Steffan hrms,"I see.....that explains....some of the recent events....that I have regretfully been been keeping from you Mentat....I didn't who to trust...."
You say, "Well, there is more..."
You say, "Sidney never saw action, so therefore the darts must have been after he retired..."
You say, "but he died a natural death, so this means the darts were used to tranquilize him..."
You say, "I asked the Suk about this, and he said that Sidney had polops in his kidneys, but when the autopsy was done the polops weren't there..."
Srulin looks up to his brother with a questioning look on his face. "Events, and you didn't know who to trust?" all of a sudden a little anger surpasses him and his skin turns a little shade of red.
You say, "Now, I can deduce what you, My lord have done, but answer me this, why did he die when Eamonn Collins came and informed me of the MRB's plans on Kaitain?"
Srulin looks down to the sitting/resting Mentat as the Mentat breaks the silence and so he listens to him carefully.
You say, "That is the real mystery, that and why two ginaz gardners suddenly developed a taste for whore houses?"
You say, "It suddenly hit me, My nemesis' hand was shown in those actions...."
Steffan hrms, "I see.....and the pieces of the puzzle are now falling into place...."
You say, "I deduced that Sidney, through some sort of corruption was given a mental loop that effectively destroyed his ability to process data..."
Srulin nods agreeing with his brother.
You say, "This lack of data resulted in a demolition of activities regarding security and government..."
You say, "It also allowed two gardeners, who haven't done a good job anyway to become complete slaves to their jobs, with a night-time pastime of whoring..."
You say, "What I would like to know is, where do you fit in My Lord?"
You say, "then I shall explain how these all fit together with my madness.."
Steffan smiles thinly, "Im not sure what you mean....where do I fit in....I don't understand..."
Srulin raises both of hs eyebrows also wondering what the mentat is trying to get at.
You say, "Why did you retire sidney, other than his laziness, and inability to produce, many lords enjoy this type of Mentat, why get rid of him?"
Srulin finds that it is not a time to speak so he witholds his thoughts. He scans over to his brother Steffan awaiting for an answer from him as he tries to make the mentat as comfortable as possible as he takes his suit off and plaes it over the mentat to keep him warm. Srulin now stands wearing only his underclothing.
Bernh nods, looking weak...
Steffan stands and nods, "I found bugs planted in the embassay.....shortly after Father's disappearance. Father didn't just leave willingly. I believe he was kidnapped. I suspected Sidney's involvement but I could never prove it. And even if he wasn't ....I blamed his incompetence in providing enough security for him. Personally I believe father is still alive....and the MRB have him hidden somewhere. I asked the the Headmaster of the Ginaz Swordschool to help me find him. He was one of Father's closest allies and I thought he could look around without being really noticed." Steffan then lets out a sigh without looking at the two gentlemen. "I have recieved word from another informant on the homeworld. The headmaster is dead. He was killed in some accident. Convienent isn't it?"
Bernh chuckles.
You say, "Killed on the same day as the good retired mentat I'd bet?"
Bernh pulls a little bottle out from his uniform, it is the proverbial Sapho....
Bernh sips it, like a fine wine....
Steffan hrms, "when did the ex-Mentat die?....I don't know...but its a sure bet they are connected...and even if its not on the same day....it doesn't matter...."
Bernh smiles, then looks impassive, like his mind is wandering....
You say, "Chail or Nestor..."
You say, "7 to 1 odds on Chail and 10 to 1 on Nestor..."
Bernh snaps back into focus, "I have a solution to the problem, allow me to relate..."
Bernh waits for the men to respond...
Srulin nods as all the information is getting to him. He looks up to the na-Marquis as this information sounded new to him.
Steffan kneels again, "Yes, my Mentat....Im listening..."
You say, "Well, Sidney was a good mentat, just not active."
You say, "He allowed another foreign mentat to enter the embassy and place a hypno transmitter in the apartments..."
You say, "this in turn sent subliminal messages through the embassy, messages that affected Morgen and Sidney only..."
Steffan shakes his head in disbelief.
You say, "Although it is 70% likely that Lord Darvin committed suicide due to these messages as well.."
Bernh smiles, "yes I did the home work before I arrived."
Srulin looks oddly at the mentat. "How could you have seen it without telling us afterwards? Why did it have to be now to tell my brother?" His eyes glitter from the surrounding light and looks questioning.
You say, "One moment young lord..."
You say, "Now, Sidney had a list of all the activities of the staff"
You say, "And on the staff were two mediocre gardeners, lets call them A and B..."
You say, "A and B we're proverbial slouches, related to a house minor, they were nepotized into house service, unfortuneately they were both addicted to Ecaz Cannibas."
You say, "Sidney knew this, and due to laziness, incompetence or sabotage did nothing to stop A and B from smoking this drug, nor did he turn them out, so when my Nemesis turned him against us he used this knowledge to further his plans..."
You say, "Then one night, under Sidney's orders A and B went to a local brothel, there they were addicted to a more powerful drug, Semuta."
You say, "Semuta addicts will do ANYTHING to get high, and so A and B started leaving bugs all over the compound."
You say, "this in turn lead to Morgen's subsequent abduction..."
You say, "When Saiban became Marquis, of course he had no idea that this was going on...."
You say, "And he in turn eventually fired Sidney."
You say, "But my nemesis thought that Saiban had discovered him, and so to stop Saiban from consulting with the Imperial truthsayer, he was killed, by a fledgeling MRB, an MRB that is being backed by foreign money."
You say, "This is where I enter."
You say, "When I came on board I had suspicions, but no true evidence"
You say, "So after Saiban's death, I decided to investigate."
You say, "When I found out about the embassy I had suggested a re-order of the government, and the embassy itself, so that we could flush these things out. I relieved the gardners, who later died of mysterious "acccidents" and I removed the bugging devices."
You say, "But that was not enough, I made contacts with Eamonn Collins, and began to subvert the MRB."
You say, "When I did so, I found my nemesis' hand in the plot, and I was worried."
You say, "I figured on a 1 in 5 chance that he knew I knew he was doing this..."
You say, "So to fool him I entered a sub-hypnotic trance"
You say, "The trance made me crazy, well actually just spit out garbage, the only time I was absolutely sane was during governmental meetings. It took me many days to develop this, and I am very weak from the reversal."
You say, "It was unlocked by the correct answers to my riddles."
You say, "Now I see the puzzled looks on your faces surely you must have questions..."
Steffan nods, "are you now out of this trace....it isn't really necessary anymore now is it?"
You say, "It was necessary, now it is not, I will try to maintain a low profile..."
Srulin looks over to Steffan. "The only questions I have are to Steffan." He looks back over to the mentat. "I will keep a low profile of this as well, my good mentat."
You say, "I believe the enemy mentat to be either Chail or Nestor, maybe even an Atreides..."
Steffan hrms, "I would give a you some time to recover...a vacation of sorts...but Im afraid that I can't really do that now....now that you will have to help me rid ourselves of the MRB plot....we will be leaving for the homeworld soon. Try to relax as much as possible...between now and then..."
Steffan nods, "and why not the Moritani mentat? Why do you suspect Chail or Nestor?"
You say, "because when something bad happens to us who is usually suspected?"
You say, "Chail is more obvious, he is the Imperial Mentat, our new government threatens the Feudal structure of the Imperium..."
You say, "So suborn the house and then divide it from within...."
Srulin deliberately interupts the conversation so his train of thought doesn't get lost. "Sorry to interupt, here. But could the Morittani have part of this too?"
You say, "Nestor is a harder case, The Harkonnen know of our impending alliance with Bajazet, and they have written the book on how to destroy a house, but their motives are harder to descern."
You say, "Possibly, but other than a possible edge in our Kanly, what could they gain?"
Srulin says, "If we are not careful, they can destroy us from the inside if possible. Could they?"
You say, "The Moritani would not risk breaking the forms so overtly..."
You say, "And they are less likely to support a rebellion in favor of a republic, being as they are diametrically opposed to us."
Steffan nods, "indeed, the Bajazets seek the leadership in the Landsraad Congress...maybe the Harkonnen are trying to prevent our support of them.....and yes...the Moritani with their close alliance with the Imperium would not break the forms so overtly....they could not afford too.."
Srulin nods seeing there point so he just continues to listen.
You say, "But it could also be the Emperor, as he has little to loose from our destruction, and much to gain..."
You say, "After all we will support Bajazet and their quest to lead the landsraad, and they are quite an unstable commodity, especially for the emperor..."
Steffan nods, "and they of course are sworn ememies of the Harkonnen....it seems to fit...but some of the pieces are still missing..."
Srulin looks upwards to his elder brother.
Steffan smiles, "Very good, investigate Mentat, lets find these missing pieces...."

Editor's Note:  With that all parties decided to leave the RP as it was late and all were tired.

FIN
Bernh paces about looking like he is trying to scrye every corner of the Embassy....
Bernh mutters, "All the world is a stage.... but what happens when the stage is not set."
Ornia walks into the gardens quietly, she is not dressed in her normal dress, but instead a black bodysuit and she is startled by the number in the gardens tonight, but yet continues towards the swing in the one corner of them
Bernh acts if he notices Steffan, and heads toward him...
Gardens -- Ginaz Embassy (Kaitain)

The gardens look as if a chunk of the Ginaz Homeworld Marcinko. The room itself is circular and fills the center of the Ginaz embassy all the way to the rotating colors of the crystal roof, and dimmed point of light that is the Marquis' sitting room. The walls are for the most part covered with the distinctive white Marcinko ivy, and at intermittent levels one can see balconies as well s windows the look directly into this area. The gardens are lush and green but the temperature is below normal. The room is a series of hills the culminates in one large hill that spawns a waterfall. The waterfall pools in a pond that must be fully one fourth the entire room. All different kinds of plant life populate these gardens, but all of them are native to Marcinko. The grass is thick and a dark green. The trees are mostly pines and a deep green, with the exception of the snow white Ginaz pine that dots the landscape. Atop the waterfall is a white marble island with a walkway of differing color marble that lead to it. 


Bernh walks over to Steffan, muttering, "Damn damn damn."
Steffan is sitting quietly near the fountain, sitting in one of the chairs and casually puffing on one his cigars. A thin smile can be seen through the puffs of smoke. He pays little attention to his sister, "Ah Bernh, just the person I have been looking for..."
Bernh snaps his heels together in salute saying, "Herr Margrave, I must once again demand that all personnel are screened, and no key Ginaz officers be allowed outside of the compound."
Ornia settles into the swing and listens to the both of you as she sits there, she seems a bit agitated by what she hears.
Steffan takes a deep breath, "yes...yes...of course....it is unfortunate. " He then flicks a few ashes onto the ground. "I can assure you ...I will remain at the embassay until our departure..."
You mutter to Steffan, "I have reports that trouble is brewing, it is for all the safety of all parties that we stay here I cannot protect eveyone if they leave these walls..."
Ornia just swings slowly on the swing in the upper left corner, she watches Bernh and Steffan quietly.
Alone, a single creature pads into the gardens, the whoosh of doors sliding behind it the only sound with which it is accompanied, indeed the only indication that it has even come into this place. Once within this secret place, Sediassa lets forth a large sigh, her feet tracing steps memorized b repetition, her eyes wandering in an out of the foliage, until she stoops beside a peculiarly fragrant bush, whose flowers are white, dappled with pink. She speaks to the blossom as if it were her only friend, "This child will not listen, mother," she says, then realizing how foolish she might be perceived to be were she caught, she stands, running her hands across her dress to flatten a crease that is not there.
Chail walks in from Foyer through the Carved Glass Doors.
Chail has arrived.
Chail walks into the room talking quietly with Lt. Sabe and a sargeant.
Chail just looked at you.
Ornia still just swings and watches Steffan and Bernh, she is not in her usual dress, but a black bodysuit.
Steffan stands and bows as the Imperial Mentat arrives, "Please come and sit down...."
Chail looks over at the Na-Baron and nods, "Of course, my lord."
Chail walks over to Steffan and glances about at the others in the room.
Bernh nods to Chail, saying, "beware of the dog, and a dog is man's best friend."
Sediassa walks to the  and passes through the Carved Glass Doors (W).
Sediassa has left.
Ornia blinks a bit and then hops off the swing as she decideds to walks slowly about the gardens, makeing her way towards steffan and company
Steffan puffs his cigar some more, "What does his Majesty desire from us ...Chail...What can we do for you?"
Chail glances at Bernh and nods, then turns to steffan.
Chail says, "His Majesty has sent me hear to assist and observe in any tactical matters taken on Marcinko. I will offer assistance if requested but either way the Emperor has told me to accuratly monitor the situation on Marcinko."
Ornia walks on up and nods slowly to all there and loosk to steffan with a small smile
Steffan nods, "of course...." he then glances at Bernh. "Indeed, keep his Majesty informed of our plans....."
Ornia crosses her arms a bit and then quietly asks "Brother how are you?" she then glimpses at Bernh and curtsies some to him
Bernh nods, "Ladies are presented before they are allowed to speak."
Steffan closes his eyes tightly in response to Ornia, "Bernh we need to resolve this MRB thing quickly....as you can see...even his Majesty is becoming concerned..."
Ornia stands up right now more and looks crossly at Bernh and then questionly at Steffan
Bernh looks at Steffan "I have certain information, that we shall discuss in private mein liege."
Steffan smiles thinly at Ornia, "I am doing well ok...sister. Everything is going to be ok..." he then turns to Bernh, "Indeed in private....we have much to discuss..."
Steffan smiles thinly at Ornia, "I am doing well sister. Everything is going to be ok..." he then turns to Bernh, "Indeed in private....we have much to discuss..."
Ornia takes the overly obvious hint and just turns with out another word and begins to walk on off towards the west, her last facial expression one of a sour look.
Steffan shouts to his sister, "we can talk later......" he then looks back at Bernh, "She's been a little moody lately. She's tired of being stuck in the embassay all the time....when this is all over I am going to bring her back to Marcinko for a vacation...."
Ornia moves on out of the gardens in a now haughty mannor.
Ornia walks to the  and passes through the Carved Glass Doors (W).
Ornia has left.
Bernh nods, "Lady Ornia, please cool your wanderlust, we will all be on Marcinko shortly."
Dune3 - Thursday, July 22, 1999, 10:24 PM
-----------------------------------------

Ulrich walks in from Foyer through the Sliding Glass Doors.
Ulrich has arrived.
Bernh nods to Ulrich, saying, "Well are you ready to meet our opponent?"
Ulrich glances at Bernh, "well, yes sir."
Bernh looks to the waiting staffcar, "Let's go then shall we?"
Ginaz Staffcar
The soft leather seat can sit three comfortably and molds perfectly to the form of the occupants. Tinted meta-glass windows help keep out the glare of the sun and lights coming off the many buildings of the Imperial City.

The driver nods.
There is a sense of acceleration as the staffcar picks up speed.
Ulrich appears slightly anxious, as he drums his fingers against his knees.
Lights from the numerous buildings and walkways outline the roadway.
Bernh seems to half close his eyes and meditate.
The staffcar is buffeted slightly by a large gust of wind.
Lights from the numerous buildings and walkways outline the roadway.
The staffcar decelerates steadily and comes to a smooth stop.
Bernh opens the door and hops out.

City Center -- Central District (Kaitain)

A 200-meter tall statue of a lion dominates the City Center. The lion, rearing up on its hind legs and roaring toward the north, appears to be made of polished gold. A narrow road passes under the statue and directly through the small park surrounding the lion's feet. Around that is a multi-lane traffic circle, with wide tree-lined avenues leading to the four corners of the city... and the Universe.
Ulrich exits the Ginaz Staffcar.
Ulrich has arrived.
The Ginaz Staffcar departs the area.

GuildMail                                                     
Subject: CONFIDENTIAL
------------------------------------------------------------------------
This message is for your eyes only Mentatkanzler Herr Bernh. 
 I agree to meet you on these following terms. 
 No one is to know of this meeting other then ourselves. 
 We are to meet in a mutually safe, and private enviroment. 
 As long as these conditions are agreed to, I will be happy to meet you at the Imperial Hotal in Kaitain. I await your repy.
-- 
Juhren Salanti
Mentat/Master of Assassins
House Moritani
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ulrich appears to relax as he takes in the scenery around him.

You pass the Via Astra.

Circle of Stars -- Central District (Kaitain)
A tree-lined roadway opens into a similiarly lined cul-de-sac. Consuming the whole back half is a large off-yellow brick building. In front of the building, before the main entrance, is a pair of golden lions, resting as they watch over all who passes. Several different flags float above the main entrance and extend the length of the building. In the middle of the cul-de-sac is a marble archway sitting on an island in the middle of a shallow pool of water.

Ulrich comes from the City Center.
Ulrich has arrived.
You enter the Imperial Hotel.

Lobby -- Imperial Hotel (Kaitain)

Upturned lamps line the walls of the spacious room at regular intervals bathing the room in a subdued light. A gold pattern of lions runs through the deep burgundy carpet. Near the center of the room a settee surrounds a marble fountain. Attendants are placed throughout the lobby, waiting on the pleasure of the hotel patrons.

Ulrich enters the lobby through the marble doors.
Ulrich has arrived.
Juhren enters the lobby through the marble doors.
Juhren has arrived.
Juhren enters the lobby, followed by two guards in Moritani uniform. He seems rather stooped, and carries a cane. The cane seems to be used more for standing then for walking however.
Bernh nods to Jurhen as he enters.
Juhren nods to the man, "Mentat Bernh I assume?"
Ulrich glances at the two guards, then fixes his attention on Juhren, whom he nods his head to.
Bernh half bows, "May I present, my aide, Ulrich Harek."
Juhren nods slightly to the other man, then turns back to the Mentat. "May I ask who your companion is?" He smiles tightly, and nods at the introduction. "Ah, I see."
Juhren smiles again, his face almost twisting in the process, "Shall we retire somewhere in order to sit down and discuss the reason for this meeting?"
Bernh notices the people milling in and out of the lobby, and motions towards the Lounge, "Perhaps we should step out of the Lobby?"
Ulrich makes a short, and quick bow, directed towards juhren
You pass through the arch and enter the hotel lounge.
Lounge -- Imperial Hotel (Kaitain)

The lounge of the Imperial Hotel serves as a more casual alternative to the prestigious dining room. Even though simply decorated everything is of the highest quality. The tables are made of the finest dark hardwoods of the Imperium. Exquisite paintings are spaced evenly along the walls. Portions of a cloth tapestry lies behind glass frames behind the bar. The meta-glass window on the south wall provides a view of the Circle of Stars. Servants stand ready to answer the needs of patrons.

Ulrich enters from the hotel lobby.
Ulrich has arrived.
Juhren enters from the hotel lobby.
Juhren has arrived.
Juhren enters the room, and looks around him, leaning on his cane.
Bernh strolls to the corner booth.
You scoot into the corner booth.
Ulrich scoots into the corner booth.
Juhren scoots into the corner booth.
Juhren carefully sets his cane on the empty space beside him, and makes a small hand sign to his guards.
Juhren looks over at the other gentlemen, "Would you two like anything to drink?"
Bernh smiles, "Yes, perhaps a good Kaitain Port."
Juhren nods, and casts and inquiring glance at Ulrich.
Ulrich nods to Juhren , "my father always said, never refuse a free drink, perhaps you'd choose for me, sir."
Juhren nods, "Very well." He makes another small hand sign to his guard, who immediately moves off in the direction of the bar.
Bernh relaxes, waiting for his guest's inevitable questions.
Ulrich leans back into the booth. He then raises his right hand to smoothen his mustache.
Juhren leans forward, and an intent look comes to his face. "I assume you had a good reason for this meeting Mentat Bernh? I do not think you just wished to have a free drink from me."
Bernh chuckles, "No, I have asked you to come here for more than a drink. I was hoping we could discuss our Kanly, and its future, or hopefully its lack of future."
Juhren nods slightly, and prepares to speak.
Interrupting him, Juhren's guard returns with three glasses.
Bernh looks up at the returning Moritani guard.
Juhren nods to the guard, "Thank you Felix." He removes the mug of Kaitain Style beer, and hands the glass of Kaitain Port to Bernh. "This must leave the other beer for you sir? " he questions of Ulrich.
Bernh pulls out his poison snooper, "I mean no offense, but these are dangerous times for my house."
Ulrich nods and smiles, taking the mug from Juhren, "yes, thank you, sir."
Bernh waves the snooper over the glass.
Juhren nods, "I had figured you would want to, although my guards have already taken care of that."
Juhren smiles slyly, "I do know quite a bit about you and your house Mentat, even though I have never met you in person."
Bernh raises his glass to his lip sipping it, a wry smile on his face.
Juhren leans back slightly, as if he had made a point. "For instance, I know that you have been meeting with people from our house already about ending our Kanly."
Bernh shrugs, as if this was common knowledge to begin with, "Yes, the Kanly is expensive, and right now it is not a top priority of our house, due to previously botched security measures."
Juhren's face grows rather grim, and he merely nods in response. "Go on."
Bernh looks impassive, "When I came to Kaitain, it appeared my current post was held by a baffoon, now it appears that our Mentat was subverted by another house. As you must realize, this is quite a mess to clean up."
Juhren nods. "I see." His face betrays nothing of the wheels turning inside.
Bernh looks down at his hands, like the information he has been stating is completely his fault, "Unfortuneately we have had security problems on the homeworld as well, this of course is due to the rapidly changing leadership, and poor security measures. It is also due to the oppressive governmental policies that the former administration carried on."
Juhren simply leans back and replies, "Seems like you have quite a few problems on your hands." He frowns, "However, why are you telling me this?" He chuckles dryly, "Are you trying to convince me to help you end this Kanly because I feel sorry for you?"
Bernh looks quizically at the Moritani Mentat, "You don't feel sorry for me?" Smiling he then says, "Of course you don't, but that is beside the point. The POINT is, our mutual fighting weakens us both. I wish to negotiate a truce, so our houses can settle our internal affairs, and in some greater sense spend time healing wounds that have been dealt by fate."
Juhren settles deeper into the booth and seems to ponder something for a moment.
Juhren leans forward his face hardening, "What, can you tell me, would be the advantages in this for the House Moritani?" He chuckles, "I do not see that we are in an extremely weak position at this point. Think, we have the Bene Gesserit as our close allies, as well as the Harkonnens. We have nothing to lose from continuing this Kanly." He glances upward and then back at Bernh, "Can you tell me what we have to gain from ending the conflict?"
Bernh evades the question for a moment, "Allies, allies are like bad relations, when times are good they sit in your house, drink your beer, and tell you that you are wonderful. When times are bad, they complain, they rant, and eventually they leave you with a house that is messy, and devoid of any valuables."
Bernh continues, "House Ginaz merely wishes to end this destructive conflict, if not permenantly, at least for a little while."
Bernh sits back and waits to see what Jurhen will say.
Juhren merely laughes, "My dear Bernh, anyone knows that allies are allies only as long as they have reason to be. Wheels within wheels, no?"
Bernh nods, "And they leave when their plans best benefit them. I am selling a chance to be strong when this happens. House Ginaz might appear weak, but I assure you looks are deceiving. I should not have to outline to you how House Ginaz forces, confident in our soon to be victories, could be used in reference to House Moritani. Besides the morale benefit, they would aslo be battle hardened, and prepared to strike at those who our propaganda ministers claim as our worst enemies. This is not a threat, merely a speculation."
Juhren leans forward, elbows on the table. He takes a small sip of his almost forgotten beer, and clears his throat. "I am going to try to aid you in bringing this Kanly to a close, but not for the reasons you think." He pauses.
Bernh waits showing little to no emotion, while he is waiting he takes a small sip of port.
Juhren fiddles with his cane beside him as he speaks, "Our house is in a dire predicament. We have the Bene Gesserit on one side, and the Harkonnen on the other. " He glances over at Ulrich, "You have heard of the impending wedding of our Siridar Count and one of the Bene Gessarit witches?"
Bernh twitches a small smile, "Of course."
Juhren nods, "Projecting the far reaching impact this will have upon our house, I have come only to one conclusion, as I am sure has our allies the Harkonnens, and perhaps even yourselves."
Juhren grimaces, "The only end I can see to this wedding is that the great house of Moritani will become more and more the pawns of the Bene Gesserit witches. "
Bernh looks sympathetic, "I can understand how such emasculation could upset even the staunchest of subjects."
Juhren continues after a deep drink of beer, "Now, I can also project fairly accurately what the response of the Harkonnen's will be to this marriage. They, realizing what our house will become; merely a tool of those damnable witches, will withdraw themselves from us, and perhaps even become active enemies."
Bernh offers no comment on the Harkonnen.
Juhren sighs, slighly, "Now, you think your house is undergoing troubles, try and deal with the Bene Gesserit for a while. " Again he chuckles dryly. "Anyhow, the point is, at this time the house Moritani needs as much peace on all fronts as possible. We, I, need to be able to focus all of our energy on this situation with the Bene Gesserit." He frowns at Bernh, "I personally have no love for the Ginaz, and would like nothing better then to continue the Kanly." He shrugs, "But, with all that I have just said, I think it would be wiser to consider even a short truce or something along those lines."
Bernh sighs, "Exactly, It is wiser to strike hard at a single opponent, rather than have many opponents who way lay you and bring you to your knees." Looking Juhren in the eye, "I can draw up the terms of the truce, right now even, if it is agreeable with you."
Juhren raises a hand, "But, before we even begin to set another meeting to discuss this idea further, I would to have some of my own questions answered." He smiles, almost politely.
Bernh looking a bit like a child who was just scolded for his impatence, "Of course. You merely need to set a time and we can meet."
Juhren bends his head slightly. "First, what is your houses relationship with the Bajazet?" His mouth smiles, but his eyes remain hard.
Bernh look the Moritani straight in the eye, "We have formed an alliance primarily for support from certain Houses in the Landsraad that have taken a direct hand in our internal mismanagement."
Juhren blinks, "Explain yourself please?"
Ulrich pulls out a pocketwatch, 'i'm sorry, but i need to be off good day to you sirs."
Bernh nods to Ulrich as he leaves, then returning to Juhren says, "It seems that the Maricinko Republican Brotherhood is recieving aid from another house."
You say, "The quick assumption is that it is House Moritani that is helping them. But any beggar in Kaitain could guess that. Therefore it could NOT be your House."
Juhren nods and chuckles.
Bernh looks disturbed at revealing this information, "As we are to begin an era of Truce, I suppose it might be wise to reveal to you some of my assumptions."
Juhren stands quickly, "Very well then, why don't you prepare those terms that you spoke of. I will be in contact with the Na-Countess, and hopefully we will both set up a meeting with you soon."
Juhren inclines his head, "Yes?"
Bernh motions to sit, "Ill be brief, but I believe the Harkonnen are using you in a bid to better themselves in the Landsraad."
Juhren sits again.
Juhren tilts his head sideways, "How so?"
Bernh looks embarrased, "I have estimated that there is a 1 in 10 chance that they are involved in our internal struggle as well."
Juhren nods, "That could be possibly true. I would not know, as I do not have your information sources."
Bernh returns to the question at hand, "If the Bene Gesserit and Moritani unite, the Harkonnen stand to lose, thus the Harkonnen must be in a better position should they wish to stand alone, right?"
Bernh continues, "Also should they weaken the Ginaz, it would aid them in their bids for landsraad leadership. Weakening us allows them a better position against the Bajazet, because a weak ally hurts the stronger partner."
Juhren nods, "So far I see your point. However, why would they want to weaken us? Since we are their allies, it would seem that your last point would apply."
Bernh finishes the circle, "Yes, but it is well known of the Harkonnen hatred of the Bene Gesserit, adding that with their actions towards our house it would make sense that they would seek to weaken you like a parasite, by clinging to you as tightly as possible."
Bernh emphasizes, "If the Harkonnen can subvert OUR adminstration, a house at best neutral to them. How easily can they subvert an ally?"
Juhren chuckles, "I see your comparison. However, that is the only part of your plans that I do not agree with. I see the Bene Gesserit more as a impediment to the Moritani then as a help in the long run. In this, I am sure the Harkonnen's agree with me."
Bernh looks again embarrassed, "Well I do not have all the facts, but I sense that there shall be more facts revealed in time."
Juhren stand again, "Well, I must be on my way, but be assured, we will meet soon." He chuckles, "Hopefully we will both have much more information when we do."
Juhren leaves the corner booth.
Juhren bows.
Bernh stands, saying, "till we meet again."
Juhren nods, and exits, his guards following him.
Juhren passes through the arch leading into the hotel lobby.
Juhren has left.

FIN
Dune3 - Tuesday, August 03, 1999, 7:13 PM
-----------------------------------------
Bernh closes the door to his apartment.
Dominic is walking down the hall and sees Bernh.
Bernh looks to see Dominic, "Ahh good Staatskanzler, how goes it?
Dominic motions to him "Greetings Mentatkanzler, it is good to see you. I am doing fine."
Bernh says jovially, "And what of the Imperium? Is House Moritani still there?"
Dominic nods "Sadly, yes" He looks around the hallway. "Perhaps we could continue this discussion in private? I have several matters to discuss concerning the upcoming attack."
Bernh responds curtly, "Please."
Bernh motions to the south.
You walk in from the residential wing.

Residential Wing -- Ginaz Embassay (Kaitain)

        The Residential Wing contains all the living quarters of the staff, the retainers, and the nobles themselves. The wing has no windows but rather has a disquised sun roof that allows some of the light to enter the wing. The walls are adorned with pictures of past residents, Siridars to be sure but also some of the more trusted Mentats and other military figures. A new picture, obviously just hung, its frame much more brilliant than the others can be seen just as one enters the wing. It is larger than most with an intricately gold frame surrounding it. It is a picture of Morgen I. Lear standing next to his first born, a considerably younger Steffan. At the other end of the hallway is a picture of the only woman. Under the painting a caption reads :This painting has been passed down through the generations and has been the subject of conflicts and political uphevils. It is because She was presumably one of the first Bene Gesserit Reverend mothers but this has never been confirmed. All we know for sure is her name. She is called the Mona Lisa.

Dominic walks in from the apartments.
Dominic has arrived.
Bernh motions to the southeast.
You walk into the Foyer.

Foyer -- Ginaz Embassy (Kaitain)

The dark blue marble exterior of the embassy has seemingly desolved into a gleaming white marble with gray veins in a circular room. There are high arches and sweeping buttresses meeting the ground with Ionic style pillars made of black marble with gold veins. A ceiling extends to the very roof of the building. There is a kind of circle within a circle within a circle. The flying buttresses sweep out and come down in the exact center of the room ending in fourteen pillars. Between each of these pillars is a desk with an attendant seated. The second circle is considered the inner circle. This is made by a series of twenty-eight archways, which leave twenty feet between the arches and the real wall, at each of these pillars stands a Ginaz Out-world Guardsman in full-dress. 

Dominic arrives from the Foyer.
Dominic has arrived.
Bernh motions to the northeast.
Yous walk into the Staff Offices Wing.

Staff Offices Wing -- Ginaz Embassy (Kaitain)

        The hallway to the Staff offices wing is quite sterile and has few luxuries. It is essentially a hallway painted white but barren of fixures and windows. Several plants though can be seen in corners next to the doors.


Dominic walks in from the Foyer.
Dominic has arrived.
Bernh motions north.
You walk into the Security Center.

Security Center -- Ginaz Embassy (Kaitain)

Without questions this room is the hub of House Ginaz security for the embassy. This roughly square room is filled with banks of displays that bathe the dimly lit room in the gray. There are security officers everywhere, and all of them armed. In the center of the room however, is a multi-purpose display that is used to help in emergency briefings and help with communications. The arsenal is located due north and a troop gathering area for units of platoon sizes are located to the west. The offices for the heads of security and the different branches of the Ginaz Military are also located here.


Dominic walks in from the Staff Offices Wing.
Dominic has arrived.
Bernh looks grave, "As you were saying?"
Bernh nods, sitting at one of the chairs in the Security center, "I am heading the team, I am working out details on how we shall get to Maricinko, currently I have some leads, but nothing major. Did you have any suggestions?"
Dominic sits down in one of the chairs before he continues. "Well, as you know, after I graduated from the Academy, I left the service of the Ginaz for 5 years and roamed the Imperium with my brother. I returned, but he remained on arrakis and became a....independent merchant. I have spoken with him at the behest of the Na-Marquis and think he can help us."He pauses for a moment.
Bernh looks gravely "What is the price for the cooperation of your brother?"
Dominic continues on "My brother will transport us in a frigate disguised as movers of agricultural equipment. The frigate will be on a Guild Heighliner that is leaving for Marcinko. Due to his...independant nature he requests we tell no one of him or our method to get there. I think if we send a false advance team with the Guild's full knowledge, we will be fine. I do not think the Guild would appreciate my brother's...services. He will also loan House Ginaz an unspecified amount of melange. In return, he requests a few men be loaned to him to help eliminate some competition. Also, he asks for a discreet unspecified favor in the future." He looks at Bernh, studying his face.
Bernh looks vacant, as if analyzing the data, slowly he speaks, "Odds.... not... good...." snapping back into reality he says, "The odds are high, The Guild doesn't tolerate deceipt well. But desperate times call for desperate measures. When could he be ready?"
Dominic smiles "I have already been in contact with him. He needs only one days notice and can be here for transport."
Dominic looks at Bernh "How many people will be going in with the advance team?"
Bernh puts his hands on his head, "That doesn't leave much time...." responds to Dominic's question, "You myself and Ulrich, after we are surgcially altered by the Sukdoktor..."
Into your communicator, you say, "Ulrich come to the Security center please."
Dominic nods at Bernh
Dominic looks at Bernh "What will the size of our advance team be, Mentatkanzler?"
Ulrich walks in from the Staff Offices Wing.
Ulrich has arrived.
Over your communicator, a man's voice says, "This is Doctor Zenn."
Dominic glances over at Ulrich as he enters.
Into your communicator, you say, "Herr Doktor, please come to the Security center....."
Ulrich strolls in, and approaches the two men casually.
Dominic nods at Ulrich.
Ulrich makes a quick bow to the two men, and then raises his eyebrows anxiously.
Bernh stands, and nods to Ulrich, "As you know we are about to infiltrate the MRB. It will be just us. I have decided to agree to Dominic's idea of a decoy team, and an appropriate way to the homeworld."
Kistand enters, carrying a sizeable black satchel.
Bernh nods to the Doctor, as he enters.
Dominic nods to the Doctor as well.
Kistand glances around. "Gentlemen, greetings. You're all aware, I presume, of what I'm here for?"
Bernh looks to the Suk, "Herr Doktor, would you inform the Margrave that he should send the advance team, after you are finished with us?"
Ulrich rests his head in his hand and nods slowly.
Kistand pulls a worn leather notebook from the satchel, opens a page, and writes briefly. "Of course."
Bernh looks a little uncomfortable at the thought of surgery, saying, "Yes Doctor, I believe we are aware of what is to happen, but would you please elaborate on your technique?"
Dominic looks at Bernh "Mentatkanzler Bernh, I would like to add 4 additional men to the advance team to secure the landing site and provide additional backup if needed."
Kistand puts the notebook away. "Of course. It's actually far less invasive than it sounds..."
Kistand pauses at Dominic's words.
Dominic looks at Kistand "Excuse me Doctor, please go on."
You say, "To our, team? or to the decoy?"
Kistand says, "No, go ahead. I'll collect a few papers."
Kistand opens his satchel and searches for diagrams of the procedure.
Ulrich lets an amused smile cross his face as he leans back against a desk.
Dominic says, "Thank you, Doctor. No, Mentatkanzler, to the team. The Na-Marquis recently authorized a small state security team to be at my disposal to aid me in my diplomatic duties and other affairs of state. I handpicked the 15 men who are on this team, and would like to bring 4 along with us to protect the landing site and to provide backup to us should things get out of control. All are trained graduates of the Academy and veterans of the Ginaz military."
Bernh shakes his head, "No no no, that would be all wrong... The landing will be unopposed."
Dominic nods his head "As you wish."
Bernh looks at the Suk once more, "Doktor, please continue..."
Kistand nods. "Alright. Now, the procedure consists of two distinct phases."
Dominic listens attentively.
Kistand says, "You each already specified to me what your preference is as far as the nature of the disguise. If you'd like to go over your decisions again, you are welcome to."
Bernh waits, looking to Ulrich, "You go first Ulrich..."
Kistand says, "Essentially, the diguise will build upon the existing structure of your face and head, with minimal removal of native tissue."
Ulrich looks up suddenly, with a confused look on his face, "eh?"
Kistand smiles. "Yes.. Please, turn to face the others.
Bernh chuckles at Ulrich who was sleeping....
Kistand gestures. "I'm not cutting yet, I just want to use you for a demonstration."
Ulrich stands up, looking cautiously at kistand
Dominic smiles in amusement
Kistand smiles. "Good. Alright, the first phase is designed to loosen the existing tissue and cartiledge, which prevents damage from long-term disguise."
Kistand draws an imaginary line with his finger along Ulrich's jaw. "As most of you probably know already, the shape of the face is one of the most memorable things about a person. You each will have your jaw widened, buy fusing shark cartiledge with your jaw."
Ulrich raises his eyebrows, "stop making that face or it will stick that way, eh?"
Kistand chuckles. "Something like that."
Bernh nods, introspectively...
Kistand says, "This form of disguise is effective - and safe - for up to two weeks. After that time, your own tissue will begin to regenerate into the new shapes, and you'll need plastic surgery to return to your old 'self'."
Kistand says, "It is my understanding that this mission isn't expected to last longer than two weeks.. is that correct, Mentantkanzler?"
Ulrich looks away, and mutters, "Oh, delightful."
Dominic looks toward Bernh with a slight look of concern on his face.
Bernh looks thoughful, saying "It depends, but hopefully it will last two weeks, is there a problem?"
Ulrich smiles, "oh no, none at all."
Kistand says, "Two weeks is fine. Most of you, since you keep in shape, will have no problem with up to three. To be safe, I will provide you each with a drug to slow down your metabolism while you sleep. It will give you a few extra, since your body will regenerate more slowly."
Kistand says, "Thank you, Gehstapolitziefurher. You can escape the demonstration floor, if you wish."
Bernh looks concerned, "What about my doseages of Sapho? It has metabolic increasing effects if I am correct, will that effect the disguise?"
Ulrich backs away from kistand and leans back against the desk.
Kistand frowns. "A good question, Mentatkanzler."
Kistand says, "You may feel a bit strange in the morning, but if you use the drug at night, you will have at least two weeks as well."
Bernh nods to Kistand, "Good. Now, you have the proper place for our meeting in two weeks?"
Kistand runs a hand over his hair. "I had planned on using my laboratory in the swordschool."
Bernh thinks, "Well you will have to be there in about two weeks so we can pass the security..."
Kistand nods. "I will be on-planet with you, if you recall. You will be reporting to me to prevent recognition of a military contact."
You paged Juhren with 'Not much, getting ready for a TP...'.
Bernh smiles, "Just checking, I must admit I am a little nervous about this surgery..."
Kistand nods. "Ask any questions you wish... the procedure is very safe."
Kistand says, "Let me remind you... if you were to stay out a month, or more, all that would happen is that your skin would be, well, too loose for your face. When you were restored, you would need some of it removed."
Bernh looks a bit relieved, "Okay, well let's proceed with the surgery, time holds for no one.."
Kistand nods, and gestures toward the side of the room, where chairs, similiar to those used by a hairdressed, are waiting.
Ulrich nods nervously, "yes, lets get this over with."
Bernh stands and moves over to a chair....
Dominic walks over and sits in one of the chairs, with a slight air of nervousness.
Ulrich walks slowly to one of the chairs but stops short, eyeing it nervously.
Kistand talks while you seat yourselves. "The first step is to clean your face and head, and apply a relaxing cream. It will numb your skin as well.. it will feel strange, but prevent any muscular problems later."
Dominic nods at Kistand's comments
Kistand says, "Once your skin is relaxed, I will work on the underlying structure first - injecting cartiledge to enhance the jaw, cheekbones, and facial ridges."
Kistand removes several glass jars, scalpels, ceramic bowls, and other medical tools from his satchel.
Kistand says, "The cartiledge will be set using sonic vibration, which is the same technique I will use to collapse the structure when you are restored. The cartiledge will be taken care of by your body's own immunse system."
Kistand mixes the contents of several bottles, producing a sweet, cloying smell and a jelly-like substance.
Bernh sits in the chair, using meditation exercises to relax...
Kistand says, "Finally, I will change the pigmentation of your skin, attach hair transplants, and dye your hair."
Kistand strokes his chin thoughfully. "Ulrich, I'm sure you are aware that your eyes have to be changed... we can either inject a dye temporarily, or give you contacts."
Ulrich swallows nervously, "contacts would be easier, but the injection might be a better idea...."
Kistand picks up an applicator pad and moves toward Bernh. "This will actually feel good, until your skin goes numb."
Kistand works quickly, applying the gel to Bernh's face, ears, and upper neck.
Dominic watches intently as Kistand works on Bernh.
Bernh seems to be intent upon his meditation, ignoring what is happening to him...
Kistand moves to Ulrich, leaving Bernh's face glistening with a light pink gel.
Kistand taps his forehead. "You'll be fine. Because of your more unique appearance, we could reconstruct your face from total destruction, since many images have been recorded. That won't be necessary."
Kistand begins applying the gel to Ulrich's face.
Ulrich clenches his teeth, but then begins smiling, "Damn, i'm gonna miss my beutiful face."
Kistand chuckles as he finishes. "It's not going anywhere."
Kistand finishes and move to Dominic, glancing at Bernh to note that the gel has dried. "Bernh, you should feel the numbing begin..."
Kistand finishes with Dominic and sets aside the gel, removing a pair of latex gloves. He pulls out three sketches from his satchel.
Bernh nods, "I do... its quite pleasureable."
Kistand says, "Bernh, since you already look like a normal Marcinken, I am simply going to enhance the features you have and make you less imperial."
Bernh nods.
Dominic begins to feel the effects of the cream.
Kistand says, "Ulrich, if you want a hair-growth formula when you return, I can help you with that. I'll have to remove your mustache, although I consider it a fine specimen."
Bernh smiles at the Suk's good bedside manner...
Kistand says, "I will be adding quite a bit of width to your features, enhancing the size of your nose, and generally giving you a heavier apperance. With bulky clothing, you'll look twice your weight."
Ulrich smiles, "oh joy, i've always meant to put on some more pounds."
Kistand smiles. "Dominic. Most of the political activists on the planet knows what you look like, so you needed the most drastic change."
Kistand holds up a sketch. "I will be staining your skin a dark brown, shaving your head, and raising your cheekbones. You won't recognize yourself."
Dominic says Shaving my head? Couldnt we just die my hair?
Kistand says, "It's so short already that it wouldn't last long."
Dominic says, "I see."
Kistand says, "I'll start with Ulrich, since he will take the longest to set."
Kistand reaches into the satchel and pulls out a large metal box. He opens it, and you see whisps of water vapor escape. It must be cold.
Kistand removes a large syringe from the case, filled with a creamy gel that seems to have crystalline sparkles in it.
Kistand says, "This is modified shark cartiledge. The body doesn't reject it, and it can be set with a sonic vibration."
Ulrich shrugs, "alrighty"
Kistand uses the syringe to slowly add layers to Ulrich's existing facial structure, working from the jaw up to the cheek bones and back. It takes about 15 minutes.
Kistand repeats the procedure for Bernh, but adds less to the existing structure. Instead, he widens the forehead to accomodate his brow and squares his face.
Kistand uses only a little cartiledge on Dominic, raising his cheekbones. He shaves his head and uses another liquid to coat his skin, staining it a dark ebony.
Kistand uses a small wand-like device that barely registers to your ears to set the cartiledge, passing it over the areas of new structure several times.
Kistand finishes with some trivial additions, a slender mustache for bernh and a goatee for Dominic, and contact lenses for Ulrich.
Kistand hands each of your hand mirror after requiring that you not move for a few minutes to let things settle.
Kistand says, "Your skin will be sore for about a day, but it won't be damaged."
Kistand removes three small vials of green pills from his satchel. "These will slow your metabolism for about 6 hours per dose. Don't take more than one, or none if you've been injured. You don't have any reason to expect that you won't be restored in two weeks."
Dominic nods at Kistand's instructions.
Kistand says, "What do you think? Dominic, remember to wear high-necked clothing. You're black down to the shoulders, but no lower. If you need additional coverage, use bronzing cream - it won't be noticeable elsewhere on your body."
Kistand packs his things in his satchel as he talks.
Dominic looks in the mirror "Most interesting work Doctor. However, I must admit I will be glad when this is over and I am restored to normal."
Kistand says, "While you are in the city, I will be using the name "Ferdinand", and staying at The Weight of Arms, a tavern usually frequented by veterans and off-planet types. They won't know any of us well enough to see through your disguises."
Bernh nods, "We'll as of this moment I am Johann Bruck.."

        Johann looks like an average Marcinkoian. He is dressed in black cloaks, and his face is a bit weathered. He looks middle aged, but you can't quite tell. His blonde hair is starting to grey, and his granite square face looks like any other mug off the street. His grey-blue eyes sparkle with mischief, like he is hiding something. A small slender mustache is the only identifying aspect of his face.

Dominic says, "I will be Erich Richten"
Kistand says, "Exactly. Ulrich, I believe you had a name chosen as well?"
Ulrich looks up proudly, "oh, hmm, Randall McDavet!"
Kistand smiles. "Perfect."
Kistand says, "Bernh, I assume you've arranges some place to stay between now and when you leave?"
Johann looks surprised, and in thick accent, "Who is Bernh?"
Kistand coughs. "Sorry, I meant to say "burning"..."
Johann looks amused, "Well I am staying with at an old friend's house, we both washed out of the Swordschool together..."
Kistand says, "You should already have the papers and things you need. Once you leave here, I won't see you until Marcinko."
Erich nods "Hopefully that will not be too long, Doctor."
Kistand says, "I will report to Steffan immediately, and convey the request for additional men."
Erich gently runs his hand over his bald head.
Johann nods, "Nice meeting ya Go'vnor."
Kistand lifts his satchel. "Gentlemen, Homeworld awaits!"
Johann looks at the others, "Okay me lads, 'ere's yer papers, can't forget these, very valuable, very expensive..."
Erich smiles at Johann "Not what I expected when I rolled out of bed this morning."
Johann passes the two other men some documents, passports, what have you....
You say, "Ere Doc, here's mi old personal effects...."
Erich takes the documents and places them in a pocket.
Johann hands Kistand a plastic bag filled with wallet, papers, ID, stuff like that...
Kistand peers out the chestnut doors, pauses to look back and nod, and then slips out.
Kistand walks into Staff Offices Wing.
Kistand has left.
Erich walks over to a table and opens a case. He takes out a Maula pistol and loads it. He looks at Johann "Do you want one as well?"
You say, "Not me, never carry a pistol, could shoot meself...."
Johann pulls out a nasty looking dirk, it has the symbol of a double headed eagle perched on a sun disc.
Erich nods and places the pistol in a shoulder holster beneathe his coat. He also places several small throwing knives in his belt and a dagger in his boot.
Finally, Erich places a some shigwire into a pouch on his belt.
Erich looks at Johann "Alright, now I am ready."
Erich walks over to Johann "What is our next move?"
Johann looks at Erich, "Let's get out of this place Gov'"
You walk into the Staff Offices Wing.
Staff Offices Wing -- Ginaz Embassy (Kaitain)

        The hallway to the Staff offices wing is quite sterile and has few luxuries. It is essentially a hallway painted white but barren of fixures and windows. Several plants though can be seen in corners next to the doors.

You walk into the Foyer.

Foyer -- Ginaz Embassy (Kaitain)

The dark blue marble exterior of the embassy has seemingly desolved into a gleaming white marble with gray veins in a circular room. There are high arches and sweeping buttresses meeting the ground with Ionic style pillars made of black marble with gold veins. A ceiling extends to the very roof of the building. There is a kind of circle within a circle within a circle. The flying buttresses sweep out and come down in the exact center of the room ending in fourteen pillars. Between each of these pillars is a desk with an attendant seated. The second circle is considered the inner circle. This is made by a series of twenty-eight archways, which leave twenty feet between the arches and the real wall, at each of these pillars stands a Ginaz Out-world Guardsman in full-dress. 

Johann eyes the Guard as the Guard eyes him.
Erich walks in from the Staff Offices Wing.
Erich has arrived.

Johann eyes the Guard as the Guard eyes him.

You walk through the Sliding Glass Doors.

Courtyard -- Ginaz Embassy (Kaitain)

Behind a wrought iron fence, with the seal of House Ginaz in the center of the gate and two one man guardhouses, lies the open courtyard of the Ginaz embassy. A road leads straight to the main entrance of the embassy, encircling a four story fountain. The lawn around the building is a dark green and groomed to perfection, with many pines and shrubs dotting the area, in tastefully arranged randomness. The embassy itself is at least thirty story structure designed like a giant six pointed Star of David. The building itself is made of a dark blue granite that is native only to the home-planet of the Ginaz. The embassy uses what would be considered a Gothic style with flying buttresses and windows all coming to a point. A 'thopter pad can be seen atop the building as well as the rotating colors of the crystal dome over the center of this gargantuan star.

You walk through the Iron Gates.

Negara II Plaza -- Embassy District (Kaitain)

	The tree-lined boulevard that runs parallel to the lake opens into a plaza. Several gates, leading into the lavish embassies, open inwards to face a marble statue of Muetana Sarobella who stands silently looking down at the people who pass her.

Erich walks in from Courtyard through the Iron Gates.
Erich has arrived.
You say, "Well shall we head to the Vonblein hotel?"
Erich says, "Sure, sounds good to me."

You pass the Rue Cenva.

Central Plaza -- Embassy District (Kaitain)

	The boulevard opens to a large square. Tall trees, spaced evenly about the square, open in spots to allow view of well-guarded gates, showing peeks of the wealth behind them. At the center of the square is a statue of Jehanne Butler, brandishing a sword as she rides on her horse through a fountain. The boulevard runs parallel to the southeast shore of Lake Corrin.

Erich comes from the Negara II Plaza.
Erich has arrived.
A Kaitain Taxi pulls up near Johann.
Erich looks around the Plaza
Kaitain Taxi

	Although clean, the interior is sparse and utilitarian. The seats are made of a thick, stiff leather-like material, durable but not necessarily comfortable. A clear divider seperates the passenger compartment from the driver, a small metal screen in the middle provides a way for communication.
Erich has arrived.
The driver nods.
There is a sense of acceleration as the taxi picks up speed.
The taxi decelerates steadily and comes to a smooth stop.
Erich takes out a flask and takes a sip. He passes it to Johann who can smell the faint aroma of spice.
Johann relaxes as the taxi rolls off "Worst part is over Mate, we'll be back in Mari, by tommorow eh?"
Erich nods
Johann sips a bit of the spice liquer...

City Center -- Central District (Kaitain)

	A 200-meter tall statue of a lion dominates the City Center. The lion, rearing up on its hind legs and roaring toward the north, appears to be made of polished gold. A narrow road passes under the statue and directly through the small park surrounding the lion's feet. Around that is a multi-lane traffic circle, with wide tree-lined avenues leading to the four corners of the city... and the Universe.

Erich exits the Kaitain Taxi.
Erich has arrived.
You walk along the Lion's Tail Road.

Einrike Plaza -- Central District (Kaitain)

	The square plaza is built around the tomb and monument to Einrike of Henoor. The gardens and facilities are kept immaculate, like everything in the Central District, but the scenery does not betray the same extravagance as many other parts. The plaza is lined with shops and boutiques aimed at the petty nobility and high ranking servants of royalty. Small alleys and streets lead from the open and light of the square to some of the more "colorful" parts of the district.

Erich walks in from City Center along the Lion's Tail Road.
Erich has arrived.

You walk along the Circular Driveway.

Vonleiben Hotel -- Einrike Plaza (Kaitain)

	The room rises up the full five stories of the building to clear plasiglass looking up into the Kaitain sky. The center of the space is dominated by a fountain built around a realistically painted globe of the planet Straum. On the right is the hotel desk area where guests and employees bustle about day and night. On the left, a bar and several wandering waiters serve the individuals and small groups scattered about groups of chairs and couches, the lobby lounge distributed around the rest of the room.

Erich walks in from Einrike Plaza along the Circular Driveway.
Erich has arrived.
Erich says, "Shall we check out the Club, Johann old buddy?"
Johann nods.

You walk through the Wooden Double Doors.

Kaitain Gentlemen's Club -- Vonleiben Hotel (Kaitain)(#1906RLntJ)

	The room opens up into a wide arena of cigar smoke and alcohol. Scattered throughout the room are many tables and booths. The back wall is dominated with a well stocked bar, paneled in cherry wood and cut decored glass. On the left side of the bar is a scarlet red staircase leading to a second level.

Erich walks in from Vonleiben Hotel through the Wooden Double Doors.
Erich has arrived.

You climb the Scarlet Red Staircase.

Upstairs Hallway -- Vonleiben Hotel (Kaitain)(#1895RntJ)

	The hallway extends many distances away from the staircase's top. Along the hallway are many doorways leading to various rooms.

Erich climbs up the Scarlet Red Staircase.
Erich has arrived.

You walk through the Black Door.

Room One -- Vonleiben Hotel (Kaitain)
	This room is hung with scarlet draperies and black velvet walls. A bed lies towards the left side. While in the backside is a large black cabinet.

Erich walks in from Upstairs Hallway through the Black Door.
Erich has arrived.
Johann plops on the bed, and tries to sleep.
Erich looks out the window at the street before relaxing in a corner.

Editor's Note:  Everything over the heroes fall asleep to fight another day.