"It is not yet known," Diya says -- words rarely heard from a Cetagandan, especially a haut. "Contrary to what seems to be the opinion of your fellow exotics, we were neither responsible for your arrival nor the changes some of you have experienced, and neither is it yet known to us by what process. We have only just begun to collect data, let alone analyze it."

Still, she eyes Lapis with interest, some degree of appreciation. "Certainly the process would be sped along if you would offer your counsel."