Imperial Selamlik -- Imperial Palace (Kaitain)
The Imperial Selamlik, the throne room of His Majesty the Emperor of the Known Universe, is a massive, elongated hall in the baroque style. The gold leafed walls to the East and West slope gently upwards, forming a gentle set of delicately detailed arches with triangular recesses. Inside one of these, along the East wall, is the black desk of the Emperor's personal secretary. The ceiling, culmination of the arches is a rectangular enclave filled with carvings of the finest detail. A soft golden light drifts downward, filling the chamber with a warm golden-red hue. The floor is of bare, sheer black granite, polished to perfection, absorbing light and throwing only a subtle reflection. Against the oval shaped, far North wall, atop a 5 foot dais sits the imposing Golden Lion Throne, housed under an enclosing cowl, 7 meters tall and 6 meters wide. Two narrow, golden pillars seem to support the cowl from either side of The Lion Throne. Behind the Throne, to the rear of the dais dozens of elegant, golden pillars line the north wall. High Imperial Noukker Honor GUARDS stand at intervals in the chamber, leaving the dais itself a respectful distance.
(OOC NOTE: Type '+places/list')
Players:
Evelina Cabal
Tsukasa Juseppe
Steffan Camilla
Erich Iason
Marta Henrich
Sauriel Nastassia
Sharid Jereth
Wallach Izick
Marco Ophelia
Shane Ilyana
Nickolas Cromwell
Adreysia Mikhail
Nestor
Objects:
Golden Lion Throne
Exits:
Golden Doors <NE> leads to The Leonine Chamber -- Imperial Palace (Kaitain)
Vaulted Arch <W> leads to Hall of Emperors -- Imperial Palace (Kaitain)
Lena enters from the hall of emperors.
Lena has arrived.
From the area before the throne, Ophelia clears her throat quietly, head still lowered in obeisance. She gathers a breath, and then, in a voice pitched to carry through the hall, pronounces gravely, "I, Lady Ophelia Gabryela Moritani, heiress of the Moritani Patriarchy, do hearby swear complete and unfailing fealty to His Majesty the Padishah Emperor Erich Ladislas Corrino, -and- the Mighty Golden Lion Throne, from which are ruled the humble servants of the Padishah Empire and amongst those do we nobly and blessedly count ourselves."
Lena stands in the back of the room.
Justine slips in quietly, hoping that she can make it in unnoticed.
You stand in the back of the room.
Praxton enters from the hall of emperors.
Praxton has arrived.
Praxton stands in the east alcove.
Erich nods in acknowledgement and approval. "Very good. House Moritani has for generations served our Throne with a singular and overwhelming purpose, their many tasks undertook on behalf of the Padishah Imperium not without notice or appreciation by ourself and our predecessors. Noticing this same determination and strength in yourself which was so potent before, we do hereby confirm you, Lady Ophelia Gabryela Moritani, as henceforth Her Excellency, the Siridar-Countess Moritani."
From the back of the room, Nickolas squeezes Ilyana's arm and leans down to mutter something to her.
Erich sweeps a hand out to gesture towards the Court. "Now be recognized by your peers as you join the Siridarat, m'lady, with our full blessing and utmost confidence."
From the back of the room, Nestor lets a single loud clap sound at the announcement of Ophelia's ascension, his expression stoic.
Praxton calls out, "Moritani!"
Cromwell begins to applaud
Tsukasa applauds.
From the back of the room, Cabal says quietly aside to Master Nestor, "The Moritani gave or sold some of their Accelerator Rifles to the Emperor...I believe that constitutes a breach of their Word Bond."
Justine applauds with a small smile.
Camilla claps.
From the west alcove, Shane claps loudly, having already been standing, his hands trying on their own to bring forth a thundering applause.
From the east alcove, Mikhail claps lightly three times in a rather traditional show of congratulation to the Moritani Countess.
Wallach joins in the applauding crowd.
Marta applauds.
From the west alcove, Izick beams and claps.
From the area before the throne, Ophelia dips her head lower in acceptance, before rising from her curtsy. "I am most grateful, Your Majesty," she says quietly, though it may be missed in the applause. She takes a few steps back, easing away from the dais, before turning to the side to slip back into the alcove with her people.
Ophelia leaves from her place before the Golden Lion Throne.
Sharid applauds quietly
From the back of the room, Nestor quietly corrects Cabal, his voice stinted for only the Warmaster to hear. "A Word Bond protects only against harm...not truth. Their transgression is elsewhere."
Ophelia stands in the west alcove.
From the west alcove, Marco grins and applauds without saying a word.
Cabal claps his hands together once for effect, and leaves the rest of the crowd to continue.
Sauriel claps delicately, his guardsmen following suit a moment later. He seems to be smiling, but his guards look kind of confused.
Iason quietly applauds, as he stands by the wall.
From the back of the room, Jereth raises an eyebrow and looks to Sharid..
From the back of the room, Cabal nods to his Mentat as he narrows his eyes at Ophelia, perhaps to getter a better look at such an elusive Countess as she, or perhaps for some other less hospitable reason.
From the west alcove, Marco looks to the Ginaz. Funny how they do not join in on such a happy celebration of House Moritani.
Erich looks to Cromwell in silent signal for business to continue, the Emperor mighty impatient tonight for some reason or another.
From the back of the room, Nastassia mutters to Sharid, "... ... ... ... position ... ... ..."
Cromwell waits for the new Siridar-Countess to resume her place and the room to settle, "Lady Justine Garamond, you are hereby summoned to attend upon the Imperial will. Approach and make known your petition."
Justine inhales deeply before she makes her way from the back of the room, offering polite nods and whispered, "Excuse me", as she makes her way towards the throne. Within respectable distance to the throne, she executes a regal curtsey with her head bowed and barely touching the floor, "Your most humble and sublime Majesty...."
Erich returns to his scowling. "We are quite aware of who we are, Lady Garamond. On with your petition," he all but snaps.
Justine nods her head barely and then speaks, "I have come before His Majesty to request an annulment from the Marquis Steffan Lear under the conditions that I have submitted to the Chancellor for His Majesty's reviewing."
Erich peers out into the crowds and inquires of his Chancellor a bit too loudly, "Is the Marquis here? I'd be surprised if he had strength enough for it, as by all accounts he can't salute when the parade passes by, so to speak."
Cromwell looks into the crowd as he raises his voice over the din of court chatter, "Lord Steffan Lear, Siridar-Marquis of Marcinko and chevalier of the Imperium you are hereby summoned to the attend upon the Imperial will. Approach and be recognized."
From the back of the room, Jereth holds in a chuckle..
From the west alcove, Ophelia cannot suppress the laugh that begins to escape, quickly slapping a hand over her mouth and turning dreadfully red in the effort to remain quiet.
Steffan leaves from his place in the east alcove.
From the back of the room, Cabal arches a brow over one of his black faceted eyes in mild interest as he looks on the proceedings, though it is near impossible to tell where exactly he is looking...
From the west alcove, Shane coughs, slightly, as he turns his gaze to look sharply at Ophelia for a moment, but then quiets, instantly, turning his attentive gaze back towards Justine and the approach of the Ginaz Siridar.
From the east alcove, Mikhail arches a coal black eyebrow rather thoughtfully as a devilish smirk springs readily to his pallid lips.
From the back of the room, Nestor sighs, mumbling, "Nobles certainly do find the need for their drama..."
From the back of the room, Nickolas glances at Nestor and quirks a brow.
From the back of the room, Sharid mutters to Nastassia, "... don't have ... position ..."
Steffan raises a brow as Justine makes her request. He eventually makes his way through the crowd, and appears before the throne. With his hand at his breast, he genuflects and then pauses for a moment. "Your Majesty..."
From the back of the room, Nastassia mutters to Sharid, "... we going ... ... ... ... any ... with the Moritani ... the ..."
Steffan stands in the area before the Golden Lion Throne.
Erich glowers at the Siridar and his apparent wife. "Do not speak until such time as you are given leave to, Marquis Ginaz. It is a truly sad, sad day in the history of this Imperium when a man and his wife cannot settle their disagreements within their own bedchamber, but apparently the two of you must expect the Apocalypse to occur should you ever entertain so novel an idea as sharing the same bed, and therefore the Lady Garamond-Lear has spent the last several months here in the Palace, chaste as a nun of the Imperial Church. Due to the fact that this marriage was never consummated, as the two of you seem to have irreconcilable differences which cannot be aired but that they reach -our- ears nonetheless, and that marriage is obviously not working in this instance, I am approving this annulment, as pater familias of House Corrino and the legal guardian to the Lady Garamond. From this day forward, by legal standards, you two have never been married. If you wish to work out your differences, then do so in a more private and suitable manner. Should I ever hear of squabblings between the two of you again, I may have to throw you in the pain amplifier until such time as you mate and issue forth a suitable child."
Fahahd enters from the hall of emperors.
Fahahd has arrived.
Fahahd stands in the back of the room.
Steffan remains motionless still in genuflection, his glance fixed to the floor. His expression changes as Erich speaks, one of disbelief, he almost speaks in reply but reluctantly remains silent.
Justine's head bows before Erich once more, barely touching the floor as she does and replies, "Thank you, Your Majesty." She rises slowly and waits to be dismissed before leaving Erich's presence.
Erich waves a hand in dismissal. "We find fault here primarily in the place of the husband. Neglect of your wife is a shameful thing, especially after you all but pulled the teeth of our predecessor to gain her, and then to ignore her. Perhaps now notice will be taken, at least in the recognition of what an ill-fated venture this marriage was. Let it be done with and wiped of our hands. Should the two of you wish to ever marry again, do it on your own time. You are dismissed."
Justine curtsies regally once more before Erich and then takes a few steps backwards before turning her back to him and making her way towards the back of the room. Once she turns from Erich, a very small form of a smile plays on her lips.
You leave from the area before the Golden Lion Throne.
You stand in the back of the room.
From the west alcove, The black-clad, plain man standing over by the western wall's shoulders raise only once in a half-way supressed chuckle. Smiling faintly, he looks even slightly entertained, Henrich does. Watching the plot thicken infront of him, he changes stance in an almost anxious motion, bringing his hands forward to rest at his sides.
From the west alcove, Shane blinks, at the proceedings, and moreso the strength with which the Emperor speaks to the Ginaz Siridar. His lips are pursed carefully, but he simply stays quiet for now. Of course, on the inside he's damned near Cary Grant but still....
Steffan stands finally, an embarrased look on his face. He then bows again and steps back.
Steffan leaves from his place before the Golden Lion Throne.
From the back of the room, Cabal whispers to Nestor, "With the Emperor undeniably aware of the weapon, this will curtail our the sales, and most assuredly bring his attentions to us. Have you formulated a plan beyond our foresight of this inevitability?"
Erich bids of the erstwhile Cromwell. "Descend the dais and stand before us, Chancellor."
Steffan stands in the east alcove.
Cromwell seems somewhat surprised by the Emperor's summons but quickly moves to the appropriate place before the throne where he bows low awaiting the Imperial will.
Cromwell moves away from his place at the right of the throne.
Cromwell stands in the area before the Golden Lion Throne.
From the back of the room, Nestor returns the whisper, "Patience." His expression remains stony as he watches on, mildly annoyed it would seem that the Warmaster is distracting him with redundant questions.
From the back of the room, Fahahd is a silent third in the little clot of Harkonnen, green eyes resting on a Sardaukar nearby.
From the back of the room, Cabal frowns lightly. He is indeed impatient about this perilous turn of events, but he takes some comfort in his preparations for it. He returns his attention to the throne then.
From the back of the room, Justine keeps to herself in the back of the room, however, she seems to be in better spirits then before. She isn't exactly smiling, but the atmosphere around her has lightened.
From the back of the room, Jereth glances behind him at the trio of Harkonnen, he then turns back to the procedings..
Erich rises from his throne and descends the dais, a hand lowering to rest upon the head of the Imperial Chancellor. "Earl Cromwell, you have for three Imperial administrations served in your present capacity as Imperial Chancellor and Mentat to the Padishah Emperors of the Known Universe. Our most trusted advisor, our most able lieutenant, an element without which our Court would be sorely for the worse. You have served us with single-mindedness of focus and iron-fistedness of purpose. For all the many services you have rendered to our Throne and person, we do hereby elevate you to the rank of Duke, ... and more upon, we do hereby adopt you into the bloodline of House Corrino, to hereafter stand as a cousin and equal participant in the future of the Imperial House which you have so diligently served. Rise then, Duke Vincent Xavier Cromwell-Corrino."
Nadira enters from the hall of emperors.
Nadira has arrived.
Slade enters from the hall of emperors.
Slade has arrived.
Nadira moves with silent deliberation through the room, keeping to the side until she comes finally to the side of the throne. Folding her hands neatly in front of her, she assumes her place with a curtsy to Erich and silence.
From afar, Shane finds your eyes withint he proceedings, looking at you from over in the eastern alcove, his expression...well...neutral, all except for those eyes where you can almost feel the intensity of his expression.
Long distance to Shane: Justine's feels your eyes upon her, so she turns hers to you. With a knowing smile, she nods slowly to you and almost winks before turning her gaze back to the proceedings. You get the feeling that the wait is over.
From the back of the room, Fahahd is about as expressive as a lump of granite. If the Corrinos want to give each other more ponpous titles, it matters not a whit to him.
Juseppe leaves from his place in the east alcove.
Entering in the Burseg studies the room with his single cold eye. Never showing any emotion the instrument of God stands where he enters. Dropping to a knee, he pays homage to his Majesty, the light in the darkness then stands. Like the stone pillar that supported the temples of old, Slade stands still, unless by the Word of God, he is called on to go and perform God's will.
Juseppe passes the Vaulted Arch and departs.
Juseppe has left.
From the back of the room, Nestor watches as the Bene Gesserit takes her place near the throne, his attention now refocusing on the Emperor and Chancellor.
Cromwell stays in his bow and takes a long ,deep breath, "Your most sublime majesty does me greatest honor. It has ever been my one desire to serve the throne to the utmost of my abilities. I flatter myself to hope that my small services may continue to serve the Imperial will in such as matter deemed worthy. I will always strive to justify the faith you have show by placing me into your Imperial government and welcoming me into your family. Kull wahad!"
Ulricke enters from the hall of emperors.
Ulricke has arrived.
Adaroo enters from the hall of emperors.
Adaroo has arrived.
From the west alcove, Ophelia's eyebrows arch in surprise, but she applauds nonetheless, smiling genuinely for the good fortune, and dedication, of the Chancellor.
Ulricke enters, offering a curtsey to the throne, then quietly moves to the appointed area of her House.
Ulricke joins you in the back of the room.
From the west alcove, Shane applauds as well, though a bit distractedly, for some reason his attention having been distracted a moment but such things only last so long.
Adaroo bows deeply and reverently before the Emperor and quiickly joins Steffan
From the back of the room, Cabal offers a quiet smile to Ulricke, secretly relieved at her presence.
Adaroo stands in the east alcove.
Erich nods in approval and rises back to his throne, looking out upon the assembled courtiers, his smile fading in a flash, resuming that stony scowl he's had all evening. "We would advise you all to give a good look at our Noukkers. They carry a weapon manufactured by Ixians and sold to the Harkonnen. A weapon which releases a projectile at such conditions capable of bypassing all known Holtzman shield technologies. Give them a good look, for these are what wrought the Harkonnen victory on Juno, not any ingenuity at the hands of their generals."
From the back of the room, Fahahd greets the Baon's daughter by a slight bow...then stiffens instantly at the Emperor's speech.
From the back of the room, Jereth raises an eyebrow, turning once more to the Harkonnens, and then back to the Emperor..
From the back of the room, Justine nods with a smile to Ulricke as she passes by her and follows her with her eyes, towards the rest of the Harkonnen group. Giving them a friendly nod with a smile as well before looking back to Erich.
From the back of the room, Jereth mutters to Sharid, "... that ... the ... ..."
The Noukkers all brandish their rifles, switching them from one shoulder to another with practised precision. Indeed, it would seem that they are already quite handy with these newfangled weapons.
Ulricke looks if anything, amused by the Emperor's statement, but makes no comment.
Cromwell hesitates for the briefest of moments before rising and returning to his proper place at the Emperor's right hand. His face is noticeably red, presumably from his good fortune but perhaps for other reasons.
From the back of the room, Jereth mutters to Sharid, "... that against ... Great ..."
From the back of the room, Nestor bows slightly to the throne. What's to be embarrassed about?
Ruhail stands in the east alcove.
Nadira stands in the area before the Golden Lion Throne.
Erich continues grimly, "It has been calculated that these weapons pose a threat of such magnitude that they could equalize the fighting power of our own Sardaukar, transforming even small armies into a force capable of annihilating entire worlds. Not since the days before the Great Convention has any House so blatantly, brashly, and foolishly brandished such overt aggression and intent to disrupt the delicate balance of power which maintains the peace and prosperity of this Imperium and ever House Major and Minor which resides under its titular auspices."
From the east alcove, Mikhail nods in agreement with the Emperor's words.
From the back of the room, Cabal smiles sweetly at the Emperor's words, no matter how ill-informed they were, which makes his countenance all the more unsettling. To Ulricke and Nestor he carefully mutters through his implacable smile so that it does not carry beyond their ears, "He would deny us even the credit, and I suspect that even if we destroyed his beloved Sardaukar it would be falsely attributed to other causes."
From the back of the room, Ulricke signals quietly to Cabal for him to defer from commenting, at least not in the presence of other houses.
Slade joins you in the back of the room.
Shaheena enters from the hall of emperors.
Shaheena has arrived.
Constantina enters from the hall of emperors.
Constantina has arrived.
Shaheena stands in the east alcove.
Constantina stands in the east alcove.
Erich says, "The very -existence- of these weapons poses a clear and present danger to the order which has maintained the Known Universe for the last ten thousand years. In one fell swoop, all which we have all laboured so hard to build up could be destroyed, every star system plunged into overt war and conflict, should these be used as their intent dictates. The fact that House Harkonnen has not only developed this weapon but has begun selling the blueprints and even working models to other Houses Major causes no small amount of concern to us ... and should to you as well. The Great Convention is meaningless unless it can be enforced, no law binding unless there are ramifications to breaking it. We outlawed atomics not merely for the atrocities which they spawned but for the fact that they could not be controlled or countered. The same holds true for these weapons. The very fact that they exist tears at the very fabric of the fragile peace which holds the Known Universe together.""
From the back of the room, Fahahd shakes his head in mild disapproval. The Padishah needs to hire a new speechwriter.
From the west alcove, Ophelia glances across the hall, noting expressions on faces throughout the vast chamber, hardly breathing as she does so. She catches the Rastanyev's nod, her gaze lingering on him for a moment before she moves on.
From the back of the room, Jereth listens with intent..
From the back of the room, Slade seems to ingore the people that he stands with. But let that not discourage that fact that the Eyes of the Lord watches all of his children.
Satyavrat enters from the hall of emperors.
Satyavrat has arrived.
Satyavrat stands in the east alcove.
From the back of the room, Nastassia seems to be paying close attention as if trying to figure how a profit can be made.
From the back of the room, Lena smirks yet, again. The Great Convention has been an ever flexible topic.
From the back of the room, Cabal casts a near imperceptible sidelong glance to Ophelia, something of a glint in his eye, and his mouth bends in a malicious grin to emphasize the meaning there. He returns his gaze to the Emperor then, not at all surprised it would seem by his reaction.
From the east alcove, Mikhail arches an eyebrow once more, his lips curving downward sharply, "Indeed, let us pray they are all destroyed, along with those that wrought them."
From the back of the room, Jereth looks to mikhail and nods to himself in agreement..
Erich gives time for his words to sink in. "We do announce our intent to present an item for the agenda of the next Landsraad High Council session, that they would debate the danger which this weapon poses and as the Forms dictate choose to pass it on to deliberation before the entire Landsraad Congress. This 'railgun', if produced in quantities large enough, could equip an army which could easily meet and destroy all opposition. We leave this matter, in its legality, to the Houses Major to decide in a corporate setting. Let the wiser scope of the Houses which have fashioned the peace we have enjoyed for the last ten thousand years examine the facts and take whatever actions are neccessary to preserve it for another ten thousand."
Adaroo leans closer towards Steffan pm Steffan= We both know that his Majesty will not take lighty towards getting rid of these weapons for his gain.
Praxton mutters to Ruhail, "... we should... public a venue, Sultan."
From the back of the room, Nastassia turns to Sharid with a little paleness to her face, "I feel a little tired... I feel like returning to the embassey."
Erich adds to this quite pointedly, "However, due to the uncertainty of the present situation, we have decided, in accordance with the Forms and by the tenets of the Great Convention, to dispatch Sardaukar to be quartered on Giedi Prime at the expense of House Harkonnen. The Siridar-Baron Harkonnen agreed with our predecessor Emperor Fredhrick to allow for three legions to be billeted, and we send the same. As per the Great Convention, any attack by the Sardaukar would be construed as a direct assault on the Landsraad corporately, and likewise would stand any attack on the Sardaukar by any under the employ of House Harkonnen or otherwise. The Caid of Kaitain has been personally sent to oversee this matter and to retain peace and tranquility as he may."
From the back of the room, Fahahd visibly bristles for an instant, before again assuming his former leaden impassivity.
From the west alcove, Izick raises his eyebrows at this, and glances at Ophelia.
From the back of the room, Sharid nods to Nastassia 'Of course I shall escort you back to the Embassy M'Lady
From the back of the room, Cabal is suddenly expressionless as it becomes all business from here on out.
Erich manages a bitter smile as he looks towards the Harkonnen delegation. "If your Baron truly desires peace, then let him pay for it. In addition, we are declaring this weapon outlawed upon the face of Kaitain, under the same strictures as lasguns. Should any be found without proper warrant and permit, the penalty for possession is death."
From the back of the room, Nastassia smiles, "That is ok... I will go alone."
From the back of the room, Ulricke retains her utterly calm veneer, listening to the Emperor's decree with a distinct air of amusement.
From the back of the room, Slade continues to stand motionless and stoic.
Izick mutters to Ophelia, "... noticibly... although... "I... we... never..."
Erich looks quite blatantly at the Siridar-Duke Atreides as he notes, "We would as well request that the Landsraad High Council dispatch observers to personally oversee the peacekeeping operations on Giedi Prime ... To ensure full and unquestioned adherence to the Forms."
From the back of the room, Nestor remains stoic. What there is of his expression is easily readable: It is not as if this is unexpected.
Nastassia passes the Vaulted Arch and departs.
Nastassia has left.
Ulricke stands amongst her household, dress black as night and hair bright as the sun, her expression a match of Nestor's - she too, seems unsurprised by the emperor's decrees.
Praxton responds by bowing slightly from the waist. As he straightens, he makes a slight gesture to the Presence, his expression inquiring and solicitous.
From the back of the room, Fahahd murmurs, "Next he'll be stationing Sardaukar under our beds, to make sure we don't misbehave."
Erich quirks a brow in the direction of the Duke. "Naturally this is a matter to be discussed before the High Council at their next session, m'lord. We trust in the greater judgement of the Councillors to see this matter attended to with full expediency," and lets it lie at that.
From the back of the room, Slade looks aims his single eye at Fahahd but says nothing.
From the back of the room, Ulricke says, "Well, at least the poor sods would get an education worth remembering if they did."
From his habitual spot in the eastern alcove, Praxton once again bows to the Throne, silently signaling his compliance.
From the back of the room, Fahahd pointedly ignores the cyclops, grinning thinly at Ulricke. "Indeed, my lady," he murmurs.
From the back of the room, Ulricke says with a touch of wry humor, "I ever attempt to find the spoonful of sugar to help the medicine go down."
Erich looks towards the ungainly pack of rams and states, "Let Count Ferrel Cabal come forward."
From the back of the room, Cabal comes forward without hesitation.
Cabal leaves his place in the back of the room.
Cabal stands in the area before the Golden Lion Throne.
From the area before the throne, Cabal comes to rest in a gracious bow before the Emperor, and remains so until bid to do otherwise.
From the area before the throne, Nadira tilts her head, eyeing Cabal casually.
Cromwell moves back the dais to give the Emperor more room.
From the back of the room, Fahahd is hardly ungainly, even with his injuries. If anything, he's quite poised. More so than the looming Sardaukar.
Cromwell leaves from his place before the Golden Lion Throne.
Cromwell stands to the right of the throne.
Nadira leaves from her place before the Golden Lion Throne.
Nadira stands to the left of the throne.
Erich smiles quite smuggly, something of malevolent glee twinkling in his emerald green eyes. "This ... incident has caused us to probe further in to House Harkonnen's ... seedy underbelly as it were, and we have discovered something quite interesting indeed. We understand that your mother was of Corrino stock."
Ulricke becomes particularly attentive as Erich addresses her fiance. Though there's no concievable way she could be carrying a blade in a dress that tight, every muscle in her body is tightened, in the recognizable manner of a swordmaster at the ready. She remains where she is though, perfectly still and unmoving.
From the area before the throne, Cabal's face contorts almost violently, as if he had just been administered one of Nestor's more creatively painful poisons, and it settles into a horrific grimace. His face is kept toward the floor, however, and he asks dryly in his typically baritone, gruff voice, "Does Your Sublime Majesty have a question?"
From the back of the room, Nestor chuckles oh so lightly. "He didn't earn that chest of medals for subtlety..."
From the back of the room, Fahahd remains poised behind the Harkonnen lady. She may not have room for a blade..but he assuredly has plenty. His left hand flicks rhythymically - a nervous tic, perhaps.
From the back of the room, Ulricke says, "Don't be cruel, Nestor." a pause. "Nevermind. I forgot who I was talking to."
Erich shakes his head, mouth twitching slightly in wryness. "No question, m'lord. A proclamation. You did not notify us that you intended to marry the good Lady Harkonnen. As the pater familias of House Corrino, we feel quite affronted to have been neglected, Count Ferret. To that end, we are afraid that until we have been properly assuaged of the propriety of this union, we must take exception to it ... and block all proceedings towards the end of your matrimony to the Lady Harkonnen."
From the back of the room, Ulricke smirks momentarily, and schools her expression again.
Slade leaves his place in the back of the room.
Slade looks at his com. He kneels before the Emperor once more and stands. Just as silent as he entered, the large man leaves.
Octavius enters from the hall of emperors.
Octavius has arrived.
Slade passes the Vaulted Arch and departs.
Slade has left.
From the area before the throne, Cabal's Ixian eyes close tightly at the Emperor's decree, noting the particular spitefulness of it, and he his chest heaves as he slowly exhales to calm his growing anger. With a carefully reserved tone, he returns, "And may His Majesty's subject inquire as to how he may satisfy the Emperor of the Known Universe in this most -delicate- and -personal- matter?"
Erich sighs and grins from ear to ear. "But of course. I intend to have the Reverend Mother Nadira Finn examine the prospects of the union, on behalf of the Throne. Time, Count Ferret, that is what will assuage our concerns in this most 'delicate and personal matter'. You are dismissed."
From the back of the room, Fahahd turns an icy glare on the Bene Gesserit witch. Just what they need around the House.
Ulricke's jaw tightens visibly and she actually takes a step forward to the front of the Harkonnen contingent. Her eyes lock on the Lion Throne and turn a flat, dangerous grey, hands curling into fists at her sides. She says not a word, but her body betrays her intense displeasure and desire to kill the nearest living thing.
The Guard behind her reflexively takes a step forward to maintain the proper distance.
From the back of the room, Nestor spares a glance to Ulricke, thought it appears that he has no intention of stopping her even should she leap at the Emperor's throat. She is the Baron's daughter, after all.
Erich notices Ulricke and tsks. "Lady Harkonnen, do aright yourself. Such scowling makes your face look piggy and small."
From the area before the throne, Cabal nods once in acknowledgement, and bows perfunctorily as he backs away from his place before the throne.
Cabal leaves from his place before the Golden Lion Throne.
The Harkonnen Warmaster pauses briefly in his dignified retreat to the back area at the Emperor's comment to Ulricke, but quickly remembers where he is and that the Emperor does not bleed so easily with Sardaukar and Noukker around his person, and so he comes to stand proudly next to Ulricke.
From the back of the room, Lena furrows her brow while she watches the Harkonnens. A look of sympathy plays across her face for the Lady Harkonnen.
Cabal joins you in the back of the room.
From the back of the room, Fahahd looks as if he could happily spit the Emperor on his kindjal, despite his efforts to control his expression.
Erich returns to his throne and stands before it, stating before the Court, "Let us therefore adjourn and look to the Landsraad, as the rightful and lawful legislative body governing these Houses Major which we comprise, to deal with this affair. We have set what we can in motion to maintain peace, but efficacious all the more will be the opinions and rulings of the Siridarat ... This Court stands adjourned."
Mikhail is now set 'Out-of-Character.'
Mikhail has disconnected.
Octavius passes the Vaulted Arch and departs.
Octavius has left.
From the back of the room, Nestor hmms. His demeanor at not being an Imperial target actually seems to be one of slight depression. Oh well, maybe next time. He turns to take in the Harkonnen contingent as a whole. "If any are surprised at these proceedings, I will be most glad to explain them in my office to that person...alone. We are Harkonnens. Do not forget that even in light of Imperial spite."
Lady Ulricke does not react the Emperor's insult, only curtsies at the end of decreed court and speaks quietly to a Corrino page. The boy nods, and scampers off.
Justine seems relieved that Court has been dismissed, as the tensions near the Harkonnen are running very high. She quickly moves away from the back area and weaves her way through the room, trying to find someone. Upon seeing Shane, her lips pull back into a wide grin and her steps quicken over to where he stands. She approaches the man, stares at him for a moment and then wraps her arms around his neck, giving him a very passionate kiss.
Marco is now set 'Out-of-Character.'
Erich is approached by a page as he descends the dais, listening to his message and shaking his head, dictating a terse reply before turning to nod in dismissal to his Chancellor-turned-Cousin.
Shane pauses, about to turn to say something to Ophelia, probably about wanting to stay. Who knows, perhaps something about pink elephants even. Right now it doesn't matter, for as he turns at the approach of someone his arms fit about Justine's waist instinctively, and at her presence, the kiss is quickly and earnestly returned.
Satyavrat is now set 'Out-of-Character.'
Lena curtsies deeply toward the throne and then begins making her way through the crowd.
Satyavrat goes home.
Satyavrat has left.
Wallach leaves from his place in the west alcove.
Praxton leaves from his place in the east alcove.
The Countessa Moritani blinks in surprise at the display happening right at her very elbow, and clears her throat quietly. "Ahem... I would advise a room in the Imperial Hotel, if that continues...."
Steffan leaves from his place in the east alcove.
Ruhail goes home.
Ruhail has left.
Marta curtsies in the direction of the throne and allows her husband to lead the way,
Iason glances towards the kissing couple, even as he bows to the departing Emperor.
Izick whispers something to Ophelia then moves through the crowd to intercept Lena.
Steffan bows before departing.
Steffan passes the Vaulted Arch and departs.
Steffan has left.
Tsukasa gently makes his way through the throng, politely excusing his way through the crowd.
From the back of the room, Cabal excuses himself to Ulricke as he begins making his way toward Ophelia and company...
Tsukasa leaves from his place in the east alcove.
Praxton approaches the newly-made Contessa Moritani. "Excellency, a moment, if I may?", he says with a very precise and stately short bow.
Marta leaves from her place in the east alcove.
Erich notices Justine out of the corner of his eye and mutters something about the nuns of old who had no qualms about getting pregnant, even as he makes his way towards his anteroom.
Evelina edges around the crowd, making her way to the door.
Evelina passes the Vaulted Arch and departs.
Evelina has left.
Tsukasa passes the Vaulted Arch and departs.
Tsukasa has left.
Erich is passed by the High Imperial Guard and slips through the recessed panel door.
Erich has left.
Sauriel watches people mill about absently, then departs the alcove with his pair of guardsmen in tow. He seems thoroughly amused by the entire proceedings, graceful hands tucked into the enveloping sleeves of his robes.
Marta passes the Vaulted Arch and departs.
Marta has left.
Izick leaves from his place in the west alcove.
Cromwell moves away from his place at the right of the throne.
The page returns to Ulricke, who nods to the page, and returns another curtsy to the throne. She nods absently to Cabal and lingers with the members of her household.
Lena leaves her place in the back of the room.
Camilla leaves from her place in the east alcove.
Cromwell quickly makes he way out of the Selamlik, not pausing to answer questions.
Cromwell passes the Vaulted Arch and departs.
Cromwell has left.
Camilla walks towards the back of the room.
Fahahd remains in his accustomed place, shadowing the Harkonnen nobles. He's looking sidelong at Camilla.
Marco has disconnected.
Ophelia's attention is diverted by the Duke, and she turns to him to dip a brief curtsy, "Indeed Your Grace. I am at your disposal..."
Justine releases herself from Shane and offers him a small grin as she takes a few steps back, "Thank you, My Lord." She then turns to Ophelia and offers her a curtsey, "A thousand pardons, Countessa. Congratulations on your appointment and I do hope that your reign is long and prosperous." She notes Steffan leaving out of the corner of her eye and her grin widens into a sly expression.
Shane blinks, stepping back, taking Justine's hand and turning towards Ophelia. "Of course Your Siridarship," he says, with a private smile and of course pleasure at using the title without the slight prefix. "I..." but he pauses, seeing of course Praxton and Ophelia and he pauses, standing quietly, next to Justine, perhaps a sight to get familiar with.
Wallach stands with the Moritani entourage. He faces the new countess, "Excuse me milady, shall I order your limousine now?"
Nadira begins to move froward from her spot on the dais, her skirts a soft whisper as she moves.
Cabal leaves his place in the back of the room.
Nestor bows in Ulricke's direction before moving to leave. Much to do, it would seem and this place is the purview of nobles.
Nestor leaves his place in the back of the room.
Sauriel leaves from his place in the east alcove.
Izick bows slightly to Lena, "My Lady, pleasure to see you this fine evening."
Iason leaves from his place in the east alcove.
Sharid leaves his place in the back of the room.
Sharid passes the Vaulted Arch and departs.
Sharid has left.
Sauriel passes the Vaulted Arch and departs.
Sauriel has left.
Ophelia leaves from her place in the west alcove.
You leave from the back of the room.
Nadira moves away from her place at the left of the throne.
Nadira passes the Vaulted Arch and departs.
Nadira has left.
"May I take a moment to express my sincere well-wishes on your ascension," Praxton replies in a warm tone. "And may I place myself at Your Excellency's disposal if she may have need of a sounding board for matters legal and politic?" He pauses, long enough to smile. "One time offer, no strings attached," he jests.
Camilla stops just short of all the Harkonnens and wonders if she should approach Fahahd.
Lena smiles sweetly at the Councillor of the Mercature for House Moritani. "The pleasure is mine. Would you do me the honor of escorting me to my limo?"
Ulricke lets her gaze slide over Camilla. "Ah. Lady Rastanyev." she says in lazy drawl. "Is there something we can do for you?"
Izick glances at Ophelia, then offers his arm to Lena, "You do me honor, my Lady."
Ophelia gives Wallach a brief glance, and a shake of her head, before turning back to the Atreides in time to hear his offer. She smiles warmly, then fetches the man a pout. "Only one time, Your Grace?" she asks archly, then chuckles softly. "A kind offer. I perhaps will have to accept..."
Nestor passes the Vaulted Arch and departs.
Nestor has left.
You sense: Shane squeezes your hand, holding you it seems with a tightness that almost makes it seem that were he to let go, he'd believe, that he may just lose you.
Constantina pushes through the crowd, murmuring soft apologies as she makes her way to the door.
Constantina leaves from her place in the east alcove.
Constantina passes the Vaulted Arch and departs.
Constantina has left.
Shaheena passes the Vaulted Arch and departs.
Shaheena has left.
The Harkonnen Warmaster walks straight up to the Moritani Siridar, irrespective of anyone else attending her skirt, and imparts with a slight frown, "It would seem, Countess, that you misplaced your weapons. I trust at least the Emperor reimbursed your House for the expense it put you out of."
Justine offers a curtsey to Praxton, bowing her head to him with a smile, "Greetings, Duke Praxton. Again, I wish to thank you for everything you have done for me. Tis always a pleasure to see you." Her hand moves away from Shane's, clasping with her own before you. She seems to be somewhat distant with the man she just kissed so passionately. Perhaps it was a last effort to rub salt in her former husband's wound?
Evelina enters from the hall of emperors.
Evelina has arrived.
Evelina passes the Vaulted Arch and departs.
Evelina has left.
Camilla's eyes widen and she looks at the Harkonnen lady, "Ah..My lady Harkonnnen, It is a pleasure to meet you." Her hands shake visibly as she pushes her glasses up her nose. Her normal nervousness and shyness oozing from her. She seems about to fly from the room but instead, she offers a meek smile. "My lady, I was wishing a word with your Leutnant if he was not needed at the moment."
"And likewise to see you, milady," Praxton replies kindly. He quirks a brow slightly and asks gently, "You, ah, seem well reconciled to the annulment of your marriage to the Marquis..."
Lena takes Izick's arm gladly, allowing him to escort her out. She nods to the assembled nobles around her as they pass through the crowd.
Fahahd just looks...bewildered, hands clasped behind his back.
Iason steps away from the wall, following his Duke as he bows to the lady.
Izick smiles as he leads Lena through the crowd.
Ulricke eyes Camilla like a shark sensing blood in the water. "My Lieutenant is always needed, but you may have him for a few moments if you wish." she smiles, indicating with a wave of her hand torward the soldier.
Izick passes the Vaulted Arch and departs.
Izick has left.
Fahahd ducks his head slightly and steps hesitantly towards the Rastanyev.
Lena passes the Vaulted Arch and departs.
Lena has left.
Ophelia gives Cabal an innocent look, blinking in surprise. "M'Lord Cabal... whyever would I do such a thing to our allies, the Harkonnen? And why say you that it is I who did it?"
Justine nods with a wide grin to Praxton, "Indeed, My Grace. It has been a very long time coming. Just a matter of timing. But your advice and counsel was a great deal of help, I will always be grateful for that."
Wallach passes the Vaulted Arch and departs.
Wallach has left.
Wallach enters from the hall of emperors.
Wallach has arrived.
Shane turns to face the recently arrived Warmaster, his lips pursed quietly as he regards the approach of Cabal. No, Shane as well is back into duty mode, just keeping a steady gaze upon the Harkonnen Warmaster while stepping up next to Ophelia. Of course, one has duties to do and nothing more mind you.
Camilla gives Ulricke a nervous smile and seems about to melt into the floor. "Thank you, my Lady. You are very kind." She takes a deep breath and looks over at Fahahd.
Praxton inclines his head to Justine, smiling broadly. "No gratitude, milady. Perhaps you will have an opportunity to do me a good turn at some point."
Camilla leans forward slightly and says something very softly to Fahahd.
There's a rather lost puppy expression on the face of the guard, as he looks expectantly at Camilla.
"Aren't I, though. I suppose that I as a lady must carry the flag of chivalry, even if every man in the Landsraad seems to have dropped it."
Ulricke walks away and to the side of Cabal.
Justine curtsies gracefully before Praxton, almost as regally as she gives Erich, and gives him a very broad and bright smile, "But of course, Your Grace. You need but only ask."
Fahahd flicks a glance at his superiors, his expression growing even more puzzled. "Ah, you'd best get permission from my superiors for that, my lady."
Cabal shrugs incredulously as he responds to Ophelia, "Far be it for me to suggest the Countess incapable of running her House, or knowing what transpires within it, for that matter. But if the bodice fits....Yet we know the weapons were formerly yours because all the rest are accounted for and on Giedi Prime awaiting our visiting Sardaukar." He looks at those around her with mild disgust before stating tersely, "Our Baron will hear of it, and I am quite certain he will demand a suitable explanation." With that, he begins to take his leave, but pauses at the sight of Ulricke and waits to see if she wants her pound of flesh as well.
Camilla lifts her brow and looks curiosly at the Leutnant. She nods and sighs. After a moments thought she says something softly to him again.
"Warmaster," Shane's voice says somewhat strongly. "Your are reminded that you speak to a Siridar, not one of your troops. And know, as well, that I do look forward to that meeting for there are quite a few things to do. You may wish to watch your tone so that your house...doesn't...as they say shoot itself in the foot."
Adreysia has disconnected.
Ulricke says soothingly, "Be fair, Cabal. We don't know who the culprit was...so when House Moritani recieves its thirty pieces of silver, I'm sure they'll simply distribute it equally." She drops a curtsy to Ophelia and looks to Shane. "Do you care to address -me- in that tone, sirrah? Let me assure you, the Emperor can get away with what discourtesies he may...you do not have that luxury."
Praxton says, overloudly, "Oh, the Warmaster is quite fond of forgetting his place."
Camilla wrinkles her nose and offers the Leutnant a smile.
Shane turns to Ulricke and he smiles. "Of course not Lady Harkonnen," he intones. "It is just true that sometimes it takes a strong voice to pierce the dim of one's own mental warblings. I am quite certain that after a long talk we shall be as good of friends as we ever were, a friendship that would not be threatened at any price even if it came from a rather...ubiquitous source." He does of course give Ulricke however a deep, sweeping bow, one to play the politic game but not to deliberately be a fool at it.
Fahahd's smile is oddly gentle, especially so for a Harkonnen. "My lady," he murmurs. "Perhaps so...if you'll excuse me?"
"My 1000, plus one prototype, are accounted for on Grumman, m'Lord," Ophelia responds to the retreating Warmaster's back. "Do be sure to relay -that- to your Baron as well." She glowers, sparing Shane the briefest of glances. "That is enough, My Lord Padron."
Camilla nods to the leutnant and leaves.
Camilla passes the Vaulted Arch and departs.
Camilla has left.
Ulricke replies easily, "Of course, Councilor Padron." she nods and withdraws, remarking to Praxton, "My father will be bereft of his loss of your friendship, Your Grace."
Cabal looks Shane in the eye, reflecting the Moritani Warmaster's visage a hundred times in his facets, "You have some idea of what I am capable of, Warmaster, and though I must respect you as a peer and for standing up for your Siridar, I assure you, if I were to challenge her, it would be you who died in her place. So be not in such a hurry, lad, for it will come soon enough." He glares at Ophelia then, and without a word walks over to one of the nearby Noukkers where he inspects his weapon visually only. He calls out, "Then explain the 'M' visibly marked underneath the barrel, or does House Corrino spell as atrociously as they speak?" He moves back to Ulricke, and beseaches her, "Come, My Lady, we have Solaris to spend."
Justine appears impassive by the conversation around her, not really approving nor disapproving of it. She doesn't even seem to take sides, it's as if she's oblivious to what is being said as she stands there with a neutral expression.
Shane purses his lips quietly as he looks to Cabal. Shane would almost smile if he weren't a part of this, for the man is, as stated often, the baddest man in the place of bad men. He stays quiet however, Ophelia having requested such and he ever the loyal servant. Quiet, but alert...his silence surely not mistaken for acquiesence. And so does tension fill the hall and surely Imperial ears to get an earful.
Praxton replies to Ulricke, his expression closed but not cold. "It will be an odd day, milady Harkonnen, when I wake to find I can no longer call your father my friend. That much you can be certain of."
Fahahd follows after the Harkonnen couple, posture again taut.
Wallach stands quietly at the Countess' side. Scanning the room for a time piece, his eagerness to leave escalates.
Ulricke hasn't quite trotted along after Cabal like a good little female Landsraad noblewoman. She instead turns her attention to Praxton. "That is news I will deliver to him with great pleasure, Your Grace." she says with dignified sincerity.
Wallach stifles a small yawn.
For the first time, Justine takes on an expression right after Cabal makes his comment about spelling. It's a slight one though, her left brow rises ever so slightly but then lowers again.
Ophelia's mouth snaps shut as the Harkonnen Warmaster points out the 'M' on each rifle, and she pales considerably suddenly. Her eyes open and close in a few slow blinks, and she sways slightly on her feet.
Praxton looks askance at the weapons, not looking quite comfortable in their presence. He carefully watches Ophelia and her reactions.
Fahahd merely observes the Moritani mildly, though his earlier tic reappears.
Justine notices Ophelia's sudden weakened state, if Shane hasn't already moved to assist his Siridari, she gently nudges him with her elbow and motions to her, "Your Countessa is in need of assistance. Shall I summon a suk?
Wallach glances at the guards with the rifles for a long while. He shakes his head slowly with a look of disgust towards the weapons.
Iason looks towards the Contessa in silence, then back to the Warmaster.
Doing no such thing, Shane shoots Justine a glance, and looks back to Ophelia. "An emmotional night," he says, simply, and looks to Wallach. "Squire Escobar, would you honorably see the Siridar and of course His Grace Atreides if he wishes bcak to the estate? The air in here has turned unpleasantly stale."
Cabal offers his arm to Ulricke with a smile, and escorts her from the scene at her leisure with the dignity and respect due a noble lady and daughter of Baron Boris Harkonnen.
Fahahd is, of course, trailing along after them, like the faithful beast he is.
Wallach turns to Shane. "Of course sir."
Ulricke eyes Wallach with some amusement. After all, the Moritani bought the things, now didn't they? With another nods to Praxton, she places her hand on Cabal's arm and lets him lead her out.
Justine shrugs off Shane's glance, holding up her hands in a somewhat defeated manner, "Just offering help, My Lord." As Cabal and Ulricke begin to leave, she nods to the pair with a smile, "Have a good evening, Lord Cabal and Lady Harkonnen."
Wallach faces the countess and her entourage. "If you are ready to leave your ladyship, I shall request a limosuine."
Ulricke looks over. "Good evening, Lady Justine." she says, her tone less icy when addressing her then it's been all evening. She nods and departs with Cabal.
Ulricke passes the Vaulted Arch and departs.
Ulricke has left.
Count Cabal nods pleasantly to Justine as they pass, and as if nothing were the matter in House Harkonnen. He leads Ulricke out without further adieu.
Cabal passes the Vaulted Arch and departs.
Cabal has left.
Fahahd passes the Vaulted Arch and departs.
Fahahd has left.
The Countessa Moritani looks to her own Warmaster, even more deathly pale, pausing just long enough to see that the Harkonnen have left the room. "You didn't tell me the bloody things were marked!" she accuses, her voice lowered to an angry hiss. She lifts a hand, pressing her fingers to her forehead, as a quiet moan escapes her lips.
And with that, she topples.
Martin enters from the hall of emperors.
Martin has arrived.
Wallach immediately rushes to the lady's aid. "Quick," he shouts as he kneels to help her, "get a doctor here, someone!"
Martin walks into the Selamlik. He moves to the side of the doorway, trying not to cause a disturbance. He looks about the room, to see what is the situation. While he gives his natural calm, he does look rather more pale than normal.
Iason frowns darkly, as he reaches for his commbadge.
Justine waits until the Harkonnens have left and then shoots a small glare to Shane herself and mutters something that only he would hear. Her eyes roll and head shakes as she hears Wallach scream for a Suk after she already offered and was denied. She turns to the others and offers a small smile, "If everyone will please excuse me, I have some celebrating to do." For some odd reason, she curtsies to Praxton first and then to Ophelia, saying, "Countessa Moritani, I do hope that you recover soon and if you should need my assistance, please do not hesitate to ask."
Praxton turns to Iason and nods once, as if to confirm what he's already thinking.
Shane senses, "Justine glares and mutters, "By offering a Suk to assist her, I was trying to make it seem as if she were indeed ill rather then faking to avoid the question. Being a warmaster, I figured you'd know all about tactics.""
Iason merely nods back, comming for a Suk.
Shane looks after Praxton and Wallach and everyone else, and he just stands there, his eyes narrowing just slightly and he turns then as Justine says something. Well, if they're going to have a relationship, it's sure going to be a fiery one, for at whatever she whispers his ire seems to raise even more than Cabal's comments. Pursing his lips, he just waits, simply, saying, "Of course, M'lady Garamond. How juvenile of me." My goodness, if it was stale in here, it's now frigid.
Wallach loses his nearly unending smile and trades it for a deep expression disarray. "Argh," he groans. He takes off his uniform jacket and folds it to rest the lady's head on. He settles her collapsed body and takes her pulse.
Martin heads over to the Moritani party in the room. He bows appropriately to everyone in the room.
Justine's glare turns to Martin and softens into a smile. She dips a curtsey towards the man and greets, "Good evening, Lord Rinaldi."
Wallach grows more concerned. He looks around the room to see what the others are doing about this as he continues take her pulse. His dim expression worsens even more as he notices their indifference. "Curses, there's no pulse."
Martin smiles to the lady after he bows to her. "Good evening, My Lady Garamond, I hope I did not interupt anything." He looks over to his Countess to see if she requires his assistance.
Frowning, slightly, he reaches down and he takes Wallach's hand firmly in his and he slides it further down her wrist, pulling back the sleeve of her gown, "Here," he says, simply, seeing the man get a bit flustered but simply staying firm, and standing again, letting the young Swordmaster handle things.
Iason says, "The Suk is on their way."
"No... no doctor," Ophelia says very quietly, beginning to arouse from her faint. She lays still a moment longer, perhaps too embarassed yet to move.
The panicked young squire sighs for relief.
Justine glances over to the Countessa herself and then looks back to Martin with a shake of her head and smile, "No, of course not. Court let out not long ago. But you have not heard the joyous news!" Her eyes shine brightly as she nearly giggles, "The Emperor approved the annulment! I am a free woman at last! Isn't that wonderful?"
Wallach blushes a bit as he picks up his uniform jacket. "Uh, I'm glad to see you are alright milady."
Martin's smile grows even large. "Really? I am so very happy for you, My Lady. It is truely wonderful news."
Iason nods slowly, canceling the Suk. "As you will, my Lady." he replies.
Where her face was white as a ghost before, it's certainly bright red now. Ophelia sits up, glancing down quickly to ensure nothing has.. spilled over in her collapse, and begins to gather herself to get back up off the floor.
Shane stands simply observing. It's probably an interesting thing to see him stand so passively but perhaps of course he'll be asked why later. His jaw is set hard though given an earlier set of exchanges, and he stands at attention with hands clasped behind his back.
Justine nods quickly to Martin, her stupid grin still plastered on her face, "Thank you, I worked very hard at obtaining it and am pleased to see that my efforts paid off."
Praxton makes a gamely attempt at being thoughtful. "Is milady Moritani well? Is there anything we may help with?" Is that an amused wrinkle in the corner of his eye?
Wallach adorns his jacket, deciding to leave it unbuttoned. He faces the Duke just a little, glad to see someone is showuing some degree of concern, feigned or not.
Martin continues to smile. "I am glad that the Emperor granted you to be finally free, My Lady. Now you can finally be at peace."
Justine nods to Martin, her grin softening to a smile, "At peace and able to enjoy the company of a REAL man for a change. It has been a very long time since I have done so and am looking forward to it."
Martin chuckles. "Oh. I really would not know about the... reality of Lord Ginaz, My Lady, but if that is what you are looking for I am sure that you will become an excellent huntress." The chuckles starts to get a little louder.
Ophelia glances at all the men gathered around her, and frowns darkly - not a one has offered to help her off the floor. It might have seemed a difficult procedure, but she pulls herself to her feet on her own, then stands dusting her hands off, and checking her silken skirts for any other sign of dirt. She looks to the Duke, then sighs. "I am glad to have amused you, Your Grace. Enjoy the rest of your evening." With a brief glance to the remaining members of her house, she curtly informs them, "You are dismissed for the evening. Enjoy it at your leisure. I'll see myself home."
Praxton can't help but narrow his eyes, overhearing Justine's rather unladylike comment. His eyebrows are arched, but he looks more amused than disapproving.
Wallach bows to group. "I'd best get going kind sirs and ladies. Goodnight."
Shane sees Ophelia hopefully rising now but he pauses long enough to look in a sidelong glance at Justine and Martin, though he doesn't look long, perhaps in some small part making sure that she's still there. Turning then he looks from Praxton over to Ophelia. "Take care to you, M'Lady," he says genuinely, though his look of anger does actually become one of genuine concern. Perhaps he does care.
Wallach passes the Vaulted Arch and departs.
Wallach has left.
Iason bows deeply to the departing Ophelia, then to Wallach.
Justine laughs merrily at the misunderstanding, shaking her head and her hands in the air, "Oh no! You misunderstand, Lord Rinaldi. Not /that/ kind of pleasure." She grins, her eyes twinkling in the lights of the Selamlik, "I merely meant company, period. As in sitting down with a man and having a simple conversation that did not deal with everyday politics. The Marquis only spoke to me when he wanted information. Other then that, I never saw him. I spent most of my time alone at the Ginaz Embassy and even at the Palace."
Martin chuckles. "Oh. Then pardon my horrible misinterpretation, My Lady."
"You pay very short shrift to the men who have had the platonic pleasure of your company since your ill-fated wedding, milady Garamond," Praxton says amusedly.
Holding his tongue, Iason merely looks around, giving Ophelia a quiet concerned look and nod before turning to face Justine's company.
Martin turns his Countessa and bows respectfully as she leaves.
Justine's laughter quiets to a chuckle, nodding to Martin and replying, "Forgiven, My Lord. I used poor wording and I apologize for that." She glances over to Praxton and flashes him a grin as she replies, "Oh, I didn't mean it that way, Your Grace. I very much enjoyed the time I spent with you, however, it was all business. T'wasn't pleasure. I would hold any pleasureable conversation with you in the highest of regards."
Her chin lifted, Ophelia gathers her skirts and proceeds out of the Selamlik without a further word. To say the least, her expression is troubled. And she is alone.
Ophelia passes the Vaulted Arch and departs.
Ophelia has left.
Praxton inclines his head in response to the compliment. "My leisure serves milady, as ever. But perhaps not in the next few weeks, as His Majesty has apparently a mind to take the Landsraad to task over this weapon business."
Martin gives a smile to Lord Atriedes's response to the Lady. He looks at his minister as listen to his comments.
With Ophelia gone and Wallach no longer trying to find her pulse where one would more likely only find perfume, Shane just purses his lips, debating his next course of action while standing needlessly off to to the side.
Justine seems greatly relieved that Praxton sees it as the compliment that it is, thus her being able to dig herself out of that hole. She nods to the Duke and comments, "Yes, it does seem so. I do believe that everyone will be extremely busy for quite sometime and it is indeed understandable. The issue at hand is one that needs great consideration."
Shane purses his lips. "Lords, M'lady," he intones. Looking bout, he frowns slightly, but gives polite bows, his gaze looking to the entrance. He hasn't explicitly said he's leaving but it's most likely that's what is pouring through his mind.
Nickolas stretches and yawns loudly from the back area, appearing worn down himself, and begins making his way towards the exit.
Martin looks over to Justine. "Pardon me, My Lady. I was wondering could explain this law to me. I am afraid I had to miss the court."
Praxton straightens, his tone pensive. "It is as milady says.... all of us in the Landsraad will have our hands full with this little errand." He turns to Iason. "I think we should do well to thus preserve our strengths, so now we retire. Will we have the pleasure of milady's company soon after this boils over, I should hope?"
Iason nods to Praxton, bowing to the others again.
Justine offers a deep curtsey to Praxton with a warm smile, just before she bows her head to him, "It would be an honor, Your Grace. I shall be looking forward to it. But if you should need my assistance beforehand, please do not hesitate to call upon me."
Martin bows apprioperiately to those who departing the room.
Praxton takes his leave, executing two smooth half-bows to encompass the remaining courtiers. "I shan't. And I do hope you'll accept my invitation to dine with me in occassion of my birthday a month hence?"
Justine's lips slowly pull up into a soft grin as she dips a curtsey, "I am again honored, Your Grace. What a celebration it will be indeed."
Shane pauses as he listens to the invitations and discussion, making his way over, which is little more than turning his positioning and taking a step or two forward, though he stands quietly, not in a hurry to insinuate himself into the conversation he only just no rebecame a part of.
"We'll certainly make it so," Praxton replies cheerily. He tugs at his tunic to straighten it, then to Iason. "Lord Ambassador, shall we?"
Justine's gaze breaks from Praxton and moves over to Iason, offering him the same bright smile along with a friendly nod when they depart. With one last curtsey to Praxton, she turns her attention back to Martin and Shane, "Forgive my rudeness, I do hope you accept my apology."
Iason merely offers Justine another bow as he straightens to nod. "Yes, my Duke."
Martin shakes his head. "No apology required, My Lady." He turns to Lord Shane to allow him to answer.
Shane nods to Justine, and he smiles, "Of course," the man says gently. Oddly though he still seems to be just that hint more at edge than usual. He stands back quietly and lets the conversation carry on.
Iason adds, as an aside, "However, I still have but a handful of minutes on my Duke." He merely raises a bro at Prax, glancing to the doors.
Praxton has left.
Justine clasps her hands in front of her and just barely rocks back and forth where she's standing. She beams a smile and notes, "I feel so invigorated! So alive!"
Martin's large smile returns to his face as sees Justine in such a happy state. "So what do you planned now, My Lady?"
Go to Disneyland? Shane listens as well,allowing Justine and Martin to continue their conversation while nodding politely over to Iason, just content it seems to be in the company of those here.
Iason passes the Vaulted Arch and departs.
Iason has left.
Justine chuckles lightly as she raises both hands, pointing a finger from each towards the exit and says, "Well, it seems as if I have a dinner date with the Duke of Atreides in approximately a month. Other then that, my calendar seems to be empty. I no longer have to keep a vigil in my room nor sneak around in dark shadows. I'd say that I'm up for some drinks and dancing."
Okay, that being the last straw, Shane says, rather bluntly, "Not too empty, I hope," his voice a bit...perturbed. To be young and interested....and so easily played as he is, alas, What men go through for women...
Martin looks about the room before returning his gaze to Justine. "Well, since the court session is over, would the Lady honor us by accompany us out into the city for some entertainment?"
Justine's head turns towards Shane and notes his obvious jealousy. She can't help but grin at it. Afterall, it's been a long time since someone has actually been interested in her. At least, interested enough to get jealous. She offers him a soft smile and replies, "One mustn't assume that I am busy." She then looks to Martin and finishes, "Or not busy. One must ask and I'll be happy to do what I can."
"I'm not assuming," he snaps, youthfully. "It's been made quite apparent, to most of the Padishah Imperium's uppernobility, exactly how free you are," he says quietly. "But I will continue to try to schedule in appointments then if my lady deems it fitting." Heis careful to try and phrase the toning so that it's not like he's accusing her of being 'free' as in easy....
Martin places his hands behind his back. The smile slightly disappears at Lord Shane's tone. He looks over at Shane with a raised eyebrow and an question looking.
Justine's jaw tenses just before she takes a very loud and deep breath. Her eyes slowly shift over to Shane and rest on him for a moment before she speaks in a quiet, yet edgy tone, "Am I not a free woman, Lord Padron? Am I not free to see whom I please, when I please? Or have I been pawned off to someone else without my knowledge? Please, do share for it seems that you know something that I do not."
And then it hits....you should have stayed at a Holiday Inn.
Frowning slightly, it's likely difficult to tell if this frown is for himself or for Justine, though he just purses hislips quietly. "Of course you are," he says simply. "My apologies for trying for more than I have apparently not yet earned," he says simply. His tone however...is not as strong as his toneusually it. It's like a little wind has been taken from his sails. Bowing politely, "I hope you two will excuse me, the Countess is apparently not the only one suffering from the emotional tide of this evening's activities."
Martin bows towards Shane respectfully. He does not say anything, but gives a conserned look towards him.
Justine sighs at Shane's actions, shaking her head just slightly before looking to Martin with a small and sad smile, "Lord Rinaldi, could I please take a raincheck on the celebration? I feel that Lord Padron and I need to speak privately. I promise within the next few days, I will call upon you to make up for this evening. Does that please you, My Lord?"
Martin turns back to Justine. "Of course, My Lady." he gives a small smile. "I did promise that I would we would have a chance to talk with each other, so when ever the Lady is free. Again congratulations, My Lady." He bows respectfully to her and then to Shane. "If the Lord and Lady will excuse me."
Justine dips a curtsey to Martin and offers him a thankful smile, "Thank you, My Lord. You are most gracious."
Shane bows to Martin, though he has the look of the boy who was asked to stay after class when everyone gets to go out with the bell to recess.
Martin straightens up. He looks over at the Harkonnen diplomat and gives a bow to him before he leaves the room.
Martin passes the Vaulted Arch and departs.
Martin has left.
Justine watches Martin leave and then looks to Shane with a neutral expression, but her tone is soft and gentle, "Please, come with me?"
Shane looks to Justine and he nods, clasping his hands behind his back and moving along after the woman....