< 04Molly > 13~*~*~ Having loaded Molly's charmingly overpacked trunk on to the coach, they left the coachyard at a slow but steady pace. The day is clear but slightly cold, the mornings sky having the red promise of later rain. The coach approaches Lower Tawstock, rumbling over the cobbles that lead to the square. Molly has been fidgety, a mix of excitment and apprehension. Beside her is a gold and cream bag, obviously new, and full.~*~* * @Morgan looks out of the side window, watching the countryside dawdle by < 04Molly > 13Did you wish to stop in the village for anything? < 08@Morgan > no, I've nothing I need to get < 04Molly > 13Nor have I, for I got all that I needed when I walked down with Eiblinn * Molly looks out of the window as the carriage passes through the square. * @Morgan nods < 08@Morgan > what was it you and she spoke about? < 04Molly > 13Dresses, for the most part < 08@Morgan > I was referring to the other night < 04Molly > 13Oh... she was explaining why she reacted the way she did < 08@Morgan > oh? * Molly looks at him, again feeling guilty that she so willingly gives up things that she is told in confidence < 04Molly > 13Morgan, surely you must see that she still loves you? < 08@Morgan > I see no such thing * @Morgan looks at Molly < 08@Morgan > and even if she believes she does, that gives her no right to act as she does * Molly looks out of the window, watching as the edge of the village goes by. < 04Molly > 13She believes she loves you, and for a girl like her, that 'love' is consuming, She feared that you were hurt and in need of help... it is an easy mistake to make * Molly blushes, thinking about her own overreaction < 08@Morgan > Let me ask you, Molly... were you to fear for someones safety, or that they were hurt, would your first reaction be to scream at them, belittle them and berate them as you would a child? * Molly laughs darkly < 08@Morgan > and blame them for all the trouble they've seen? < 08@Morgan > though I suppose she was right... I do often start things that other people suffer for < 04Molly > 13I believe you of all people have seen the fear I hold when one of my dear ones is injured, and no, I would not react like that. * Molly looks at him, sadly < 04Molly > 13You do not often start such things, and you more than make up for them with all the good things you do for people < 08@Morgan > Not many < 08@Morgan > not enough * @Morgan looks back out of the window < 04Molly > 13You saved my life, that will always be enough for me... you are wise enough to see your own faults < 08@Morgan > I need not be... some people are more than happy to point them out * Molly sighs < 04Molly > 13Such people would be wise to view their own faults before pointing out those of others < 08@Morgan > .me rummages ina bag for a moment before producing a small amount of leather, a few pins and a needle and thread * Molly looks out of the window < 04Molly > 13I believe we will pass Sunnymeade soon < 08@Morgan > indeed * Molly watches intently as the small holding comes in to view. The corn has been taken for the harvest, leaving a bare field. She smiles, knowing that her family is there < 08@Morgan > how long has it been since you visited there? < 04Molly > 13I have never visited. It was March in the year before this that I left... * Molly 's smile disapears, feeling the resentment < 08@Morgan > it shant be long before you can freely visit if you choose < 04Molly > 13I wonder how easy such a reunion will be, though I shall have the document I need, I might not have the capacity to forgive and forget as easily < 04Molly > 13~*~*~ The farm goes out of view~*~*~ < 08@Morgan > Your capacity to forgive is not what concerns me... if you choose to forgive, or not, that is your choice... my concern is your right to visit * Molly looks to him < 04Molly > 13I shall have that, thanks to you < 08@Morgan > Its a character flaw... < 04Molly > 13To help those who need it? < 08@Morgan > most likely * Molly smiles at him < 08@Morgan > though my sympathies definitely lay more with those of lower class, if you'll forgive the term < 04Molly > 13You have a weakness for us commoners, good sir? * Molly 's voice is light and playful < 08@Morgan > there is less to fear... until I became Master at Arms, people spoke to me because they wanted to, not because they wanted something from me, some advancement < 08@Morgan > sadly, even in that house people ask much of me while at the same time looking upon me with disdain < 04Molly > 13Which is a disgrace which will not be borne, once I am a lady and free to speak as I will < 04Molly > 13~*~*~* The outskirts of Tawstock come in to sight.~*~*~ * Molly smiles, fidgeting slightly, struggling to contain the excitement of the trip < 08@Morgan > dont go upsetting the Lords and Ladies on my behalf * Molly laughs < 04Molly > 13I shall upset whomever I please... < 08@Morgan > whats so funny? * @Morgan winces as he stabs his thumb with the needle < 04Molly > 13The idea that I shall be able to cause upset so easily without losing my employ < 08@Morgan > I rather suspect that may be the case < 04Molly > 13It will be a different life, it is true * Molly watches the hustle and bustle of the town through the window, the market calls, children playing on the cobbles, the shops, the taverns all going by < 08@Morgan > Life as a Lady will agree with you I think < 04Molly > 13I hope so... < 04Molly > 13I have not been to Tawstock for many years, it has barely changed in my absence < 08@Morgan > things here dont change very much at all < 04Molly > 13 5 The town merges in to the country again, as the carriage begins to climb the hill out of Tawstock * Molly looks out of the window, her face beaming < 08@Morgan > furthest you've been? < 04Molly > 13I do believe so. I am now further from my place of birth than I have ever been... * Molly looks excited, her ability to contain it now gone < 08@Morgan > oh, I can see I'm going to have to pay close attention to you in Carleon... dont want you wandering off * Molly moves to the window, studying the land < 04Molly > 13As I have already vowed, I shall be guided by you and obey your wishes < 08@Morgan > I've no doubt < 04Molly > 13Oh, how this pleases me! Thank you for this Morgan, I shall remember this trip for all my days * Molly turns to him with a smile, her innocence and naivety refreshing in comparison to the jaded guests of lady catherine < 08@Morgan > You've no need to thank me... you deserve better than the hand you've been dealt, and you're my friend and I will, with all my might, get you what you deserve < 04Molly > 13I believe that whole heartedly < 04Molly > 13I hope that everyone gets what they deserve in the end < 08@Morgan > but who is to decide whom deserves what < 04Molly > 13Something greater than all of us, that is for sure < 04Molly > 13Oh, whilst I remember... * Molly 's attempt to make it seem that she hasnt been waiting for a good moment is easily spotted * @Morgan looks up from his attempts at darning * Molly opens her bag, pulling out three book on to the seat beside her, before retrieving a small fabric wrapped bundle, tied with a leather thong * @Morgan looks at the books momentarily * Molly hands the bundle over with a blush < 08@Morgan > what is it? < 04Molly > 13It is a small gift... I had it especially comissioned to my design by the blacksmith in the village... * Molly looks out of the window, not watching him * @Morgan unwraps it slowly * Molly steals a glance < 08@Morgan > Molly, I cant accept this * Molly looks back at him, her face both sad and puzzled < 04Molly > 13But Morgan, you must, for it is a gift... and a token of affection < 08@Morgan > its... its too expensive * Molly drops her eyes < 04Molly > 13It is not too expensive at all, it was far less than it looks < 04Molly > 13It is more to be treasured for sentimentality than worth * Molly looks back to him < 08@Morgan > Then I shall treasure it always * Molly smiles, her face lit up < 04Molly > 13I am very glad that you like it, I was afraid you would not < 04Molly > 13I have never bought a gift before, even less had one made < 08@Morgan > you had this made in Lower Tawstock? < 04Molly > 13Yes, it is suprisingly good < 08@Morgan > I think the mans talent is wasted < 04Molly > 13I am inclined to agree < 04Molly > 13Will you wear it? * @Morgan nods slowly * Molly smiles, incredibly pleased < 04Molly > 13The pin is fiddley, you might find your fingers struggle with it < 08@Morgan > I'll manage, one way or another < 04Molly > 13You know I am here, were you to require aid... * Molly puts the books back in to the bag, a sheaf of letters slipping out from between them * @Morgan looks down < 08@Morgan > been a busy little beaver, have we? * Molly looks at the letters < 04Molly > 13Oh no, they are not mine < 08@Morgan > whose, pray tell, are they? < 04Molly > 13They are missives from Curtis to his family, and to his solicitor * Molly looks out of the window < 08@Morgan > I see < 04Molly > 13I am charged with arranging their deilvery... I believe unless you have any objections, I should like to do this on our first day in Carleon, as with the visit to the doctors * Molly shudders slightly, and pulls her cloak around her tighter < 08@Morgan > I have no objections at all < 04Molly > 13Then we shall be free to explore * Molly grins at him < 08@Morgan > you have plans, I take it? < 04Molly > 13None that we have not discussed... I shall need to find a dress for the wedding, and I'd like to visit the theater and, if you still wish, a merchant that sells mirrors... * Molly looks down, avoiding his eyes < 08@Morgan > I'm sure we'll find one < 04Molly > 13Where will we be stopping? < 08@Morgan > I think there'll be two stops... one in Bridgewater, one in Avebury < 04Molly > 13Have you been to either on your travels? < 08@Morgan > both, actually < 04Molly > 13Are they nice places? < 08@Morgan > Bridgewater is... ok... Avebury's a wonderful place < 04Molly > 13I shall be glad to see it on your recommendation < 08@Morgan > I shouldn't get too excited if I were you < 04Molly > 13How so? < 08@Morgan > I just dont want you getting excited and having unrealistic expectations and being disappointed < 04Molly > 13Oh Morgan, take a look at me... am I not already the picture of excitement? It matters not whether it is as I hoped * Molly smiles at him, and her eyes dance and spakle < 08@Morgan > I think Carleon shall be a shock to you... I expect you'll be near as dammit dancing while trying to stand still < 04Molly > 13I have felt that way for many a day now, I am just accomplished at hiding my feelings... < 04Molly > 13It will be nice to be just Molly for a few days < 08@Morgan > how do you mean? < 04Molly > 13I am never just myself... I am lady catherines housekeeper, curtis jaegers bethrothed, david forresters daughter... but for now I am me... Molly, nothing to no-one < 08@Morgan > I see < 04Molly > 13It is like having a huge weight lifted from upon my shoulders < 08@Morgan > I can see how that'd be the case, yes < 04Molly > 13I think, if the circumstances that led your life this way had not been as they were, moving from place to place might be a blessing... never tied, never responsible for the hapiness of others < 08@Morgan > its a lonely life < 04Molly > 13I suppose so... It would be hard to leave behind the friends that you had made < 08@Morgan > indeed < 04Molly > 13It is a far-fectched idea for my own life... you need only look at the way I suffer from the idea of leaving you behind as I must < 08@Morgan > but it is a necessity of your new life < 04Molly > 13Yes, it is * Molly looks from the window, seeing a flatter scenery than when they started out. They cross a bridge over a small stream < 04Molly > 13 4 It is later in the day, the rain having not come, sky darkening as a pretty dusk comes pink and red, and the coach pulls up in bridgewater, a small market town. The cobbles jolt Molly away from her dozing, which she has done for the last few miles. She looks up in suprise * @Morgan stretches < 08@Morgan > I believe... we have arrived < 04Molly > 13Oh goodness, did I fall asleep? * Molly blushes < 08@Morgan > you did < 04Molly > 13I am sorry, I despair to think of how silly I must have looked < 08@Morgan > not at all < 08@Morgan > I was quite consumed with finishing this * @Morgan holds up a small pouch, inside out * Molly looks it over < 04Molly > 13I see now why you did not want my help, your work is easily a match for mine < 08@Morgan > you mock me? * Molly looks wounded < 04Molly > 13No Morgan, I would not do such a thing < 08@Morgan > I've seen your work and it is far better than my own < 04Molly > 13I will disagree, because I believed your praise to be pure flattery < 08@Morgan > far from it < 08@Morgan > flattery is the resort of those who want something * Molly looks away, gathering her things, and sounds slightly distracted when she speaks < 04Molly > 13yes, indeed... < 08@Morgan > I only say things I mean, be it a compliment or a threat < 04Molly > 13I know you speak true, without hidden meaning * Molly looks out, nodding to the coachman to open the door < 04Molly > 13 4 the coachman looks to Morgan waiting for permission * @Morgan nods to the coachman < 04Molly > 13 4 He opens the door, helping Molly out * Molly looks to Morgan < 04Molly > 13What happens now? Will the luggage be brought in? < 08@Morgan > no, I'll carry it * Molly looks embarrased < 04Molly > 13What should I do? * @Morgan gets out of the coach < 08@Morgan > you should stand beside me and not wander off * Molly smiles < 04Molly > 13That is no hardship * @Morgan loads up with the bags and heads in the rough direction of an inn * Molly follows closely, holding her own bag tight to her side < 04Molly > 13 4 The King's Arms is slightly off the square, and the noise of drinkers can be heard from outside * @Morgan looks at the frontage of the building before pushing inside * Molly follows him, always a step behind < 04Molly > 13 4 The tavern is warm and welcoming, tables spread out from a burning fire on the left. Behind the bar stands a shortish man, in his forties with salt and pepper hair. His years in the pub have expanded his waist, and he is a portly but friendly gentleman. He spots Morgan, the luggage, and Molly. Coming over, he speaks quickly < 04Molly > 13 7 Master Hockridge, is is good to see you! You and your young lady are very welcome here. It is quiet, and you may have your pick of any room. 4 *he leans in, whispering loudly * 7 Even the honeymoon suite, if you wish it. *he winks* * Molly makes no sound, obscured from Morgans view < 08@Morgan > Custennin, always a pleasure. I should like two rooms, adjoining if you please. < 04Molly > 13 7 Oh, I am sorry Master Hockridge, I thought that... *He looks from Molly to the ring on Morgan's hand. He is bright red.* < 08@Morgan > Young Molly here is in my care while on an errand for Lady Torrington of Tawstock. I'm sure that your tavern is still the safest place in Bridgewater to stay, yes? < 04Molly > 13*he looks pleased that Morgan has ignored his faux pas* Aye, safest and most welcoming... I'll show you the rooms < 04Molly > 13 7 *he leads them to some upstairs rooms, both quite simple but homely. The door between can be locked from either side* Will these be suitable? < 08@Morgan > Perfect * Molly nods at him, overcome by a shyness she had as a child but not as a housekeeper < 04Molly > 13 7 Can I bring you anything, food or ale? < 08@Morgan > Both for me, thank you. Molly, take this opportunity to get some practice with being served * Molly smiles, and speaks quietly, her shyness obvious < 04Molly > 13I would have the same, please < 04Molly > 13 7 Very good, I shall bring it up anon *he leaves* * Molly watches Morgan, worried that he will act strangely with her because of custennins assumption * @Morgan pushes his way into one room and unlocks the door between, poking his head through * Molly follows slowly < 08@Morgan > He's never been one to mind his tongue... * Molly stops in her tracks < 04Molly > 13I'm sorry, perhaps I should have waited with the coach until arrangements were made * Molly 's face is scarlet, and she feels it burn < 08@Morgan > No, had you done that he'd have reached the same conclusion by a different route < 08@Morgan > he could mistake a slap in the face for an illicit encounter < 04Molly > 13Then surely he will make the fact that we are not wed but have ajoining rooms in to a scandal? * Molly laughs < 08@Morgan > We could have taken rooms on different floors and he'd see a scandal < 08@Morgan > but he means no harm < 04Molly > 13I did not think he did, I was not worried for my own feelings... < 08@Morgan > I've had far worse assumptions made < 04Molly > 13Than that you are married to someone like me? < 08@Morgan > I dont think it was marriage on his mind < 04Molly > 13Well, what else... Oh, oh my... * Molly looks away, embarassed < 04Molly > 13He thought that we... that you and... that I was your mistress? * Molly stumbles on the words * @Morgan looks back from the other room < 08@Morgan > choose your room < 08@Morgan > ummm, I suppose mistress is close enough, yes < 04Molly > 13And you have had worse assumptions made than that? * Molly looks at him, her voice quiet < 08@Morgan > oh, absolutely < 04Molly > 13I hate to think what such things might be, for I should imagine being thought of in such a way would pain you * @Morgan shrugs < 08@Morgan > he knows nothing of my past, and to tell him would be to invite discovery... I try not to dwell on it < 04Molly > 13Yes, I think perhaps that is best... * Molly looks in the other room, and picking the less posh one, she says < 04Molly > 13I shall take this room, if it pleases you < 08@Morgan > take whichever you desire * Molly lays her bag on the bed, taking her cloak off as well. Underneath she wears the same outfit she wore at the dancing rehersal, and hasnt worn it since. It is plain to see how much trimmer her figure is * @Morgan puts her bags on the floor by the bed < 04Molly > 13Thank you < 08@Morgan > Welcome. * @Morgan goes back into the other room < 04Molly > 13 7 There is a knock at the door, and a maid brings in the food and ale, placing it on the table in Molly's room, which has two chairs * @Morgan looks round and speaks < 08@Morgan > thank you Rose < 04Molly > 13 7 *Rose looks at him, and then Molly, eyes downcast.* I hope it pleases you sir *she curtseys* * Molly watches her carefully < 08@Morgan > It usually does. < 04Molly > 13 7 *Rose blushes, and leaves* * Molly smiles wryly < 08@Morgan > strange girl < 04Molly > 13It appears you charm women without even attempting it < 08@Morgan > It takes little to charm a girl who is pleased just to have her name remembered * Molly goes to the table, looking at the bread, meat and cheese for their supper. She drinks a little of the ale < 04Molly > 13Yes, more than you could know < 04Molly > 13But for a few moons, I was that girl... * Molly sits down at the table < 04Molly > 13Will you join me, or would you prefer to eat alone? * @Morgan walks to the table and picks up a tankard of ale < 08@Morgan > I worked in Bridgewater for a while * Molly looks up at him, pulling open a bread roll with her fingers < 04Molly > 13Really? What did you do here? < 08@Morgan > Farm hand. < 04Molly > 13Why did you leave? < 08@Morgan > I grew weary of waking before dawn and getting back to my lodgings after dark... ironic really, that I chose a job that ended up being much the same < 04Molly > 13It is funny how sometimes what we strive for isn't what we hoped... * Molly adds cheese to her bread, eating slowly, enjoying a meal that she hasnt had a hand in preparing < 08@Morgan > Still, I wouldn't trade my job < 04Molly > 13And your friends? * Molly smiles at him < 08@Morgan > indeed < 04Molly > 13Will you not sit? You make me nervous standing so < 08@Morgan > make you nervous? * @Morgan sits slowly < 04Molly > 13Yes, as if you might suddenly disapear < 08@Morgan > I feel slighlty ill at ease being away from the house I confess < 04Molly > 13I am sure everything there will be trouble-free... < 04Molly > 13I do wonder if the problems there are not due to the occupants of the place < 08@Morgan > I'm starting to think its me * Molly looks at him, her soft < 04Molly > 13It is not you... it might be all of us. < 08@Morgan > I dont know. The only common factor in all the occurances I've seen is me... and Sigfried, actually < 04Molly > 13I admit, I was not there at the island when the elementals came, but in the house there seem to be many of us who come with pain and longing in our hearts * @Morgan shoots Molly a dark look < 08@Morgan > who told you of the elementals? * Molly continues eating * Molly then stops * Molly looks wary < 04Molly > 13Evie < 08@Morgan > I see... and what else did she tell you? * Molly looks away < 04Molly > 13About the island? < 08@Morgan > About the trip in general * Molly talks slowly, being careful < 04Molly > 13That there were elementals, including a creation elemental, and a gaia elemental, fire and ice... that sacrifices had to be made in order to save you * @Morgan nods < 08@Morgan > typical of her... exaggeration seems to come easily to her < 04Molly > 13But she... < 08@Morgan > but she what? * Molly stands, annoyed with herself < 04Molly > 13She said she made a sacrifice, a life for a life... * Molly paces < 08@Morgan > Let me guess... she said I was as good as dead and needed a sacrafice on her part to save me... < 04Molly > 13Yes * @Morgan shakes his head slowly < 08@Morgan > what else? < 04Molly > 13Morgan, I should not be telling you these things, and yet I find myself unable to deny you it... * Molly sits back down in the chair, head in hands < 04Molly > 13She said that she had given the life of her unborn child for you < 08@Morgan > I see * Molly looks at him, to see his reaction * @Morgan stays straight faced, his eyes showing deep thought * Molly looks angry, a rare emotion for her < 04Molly > 13I knew I should not have spoken * @Morgan sighs < 08@Morgan > What else? < 04Molly > 13That was all that she said about the island * Molly drinks her ale slowly * @Morgan looks at Molly solemnly < 08@Morgan > sure? < 04Molly > 13That is truly all I can recall * @Morgan nods * Molly 's face shows the strain she feels at revealing too much, her eyes tearing up < 08@Morgan > I hadn't told you because I wished to spare you the distress I feared it would cause < 04Molly > 13It is exactly as I told Evie it would be when she asked if I knew why you might not have told me... no-one can ever be totally honest with another in my experience, because there are always the feelings of the other to be aware of < 08@Morgan > It seems to me that most people think that, yet Eiblinn is only concerned with her own * Molly looks away < 04Molly > 13I have said this before about Evie, but it bears repeating, she is very young for her years, perhaps losing her family is what has made her so, perhaps she was always destined to be so < 08@Morgan > regardless, I dont appreciate her telling things i prefer kept secret < 04Molly > 13I am sure there are many things she knows about you that she has not told < 04Molly > 13It pains me to tell you the things she has told me, for I believe myself to be a good friend, and yet around you I come undone < 08@Morgan > She has a habit to gossip herself, I shouldn't worry < 04Molly > 13I should imagine that she might well have told all the things I have spoken to her about in confidence as well < 08@Morgan > I think the only person she doesn't talk to in confidence is me... all I seem to get is disparaging comments and screaming indignancies < 04Molly > 13I wonder if she fears being too close to you might make her more infatuated < 08@Morgan > I dont see how * Molly smiles at him < 08@Morgan > but then I happen to believe you're wrong, and so is she if she believes she feels that way < 04Molly > 13I did not think you would < 04Molly > 13She knows no other love, and until she does, she will believe the way she feels for you is love... no doubt I will suffer just as badly when love finds me < 04Molly > 13I believe that everyone suffers with first time love, and the affection I have for Horatio is all I've known like that, so I shall be perplexed to learn of love * Molly eats more bread < 08@Morgan > love can be a cruel mistress < 04Molly > 13Oh that it was easy, and we could love those we are supposed to, and not those we aren't supposed to * @Morgan glances at her before picking up some bread < 08@Morgan > you have someone in mind? < 04Molly > 13Well, aren't I supposed to love Curtis by now? < 08@Morgan > shouldn't I have fallen in love with someone like Lady Sophia? < 04Molly > 13Yes, but it does not work like that... If I had the choice, I would choose to love Curtis, for I will be his bride regardless, and it would be preferable not to lie to him. But I can not force my heart, so live in hope that such feelings will come. And in the hope that I do not make the mistake of falling for another. * Molly adds meat and cheese to more bread, drinking a little now and then < 08@Morgan > I wonder if he's murdered Eiblinn yet < 04Molly > 13I would think it more likely that he will spend too much time in her company and decide to take her to wife instead * @Morgan starts to snigger < 08@Morgan > I'm given to believe he finds her quite annoying < 04Molly > 13That suprises me little < 08@Morgan > I think he finds her duplicitous < 04Molly > 13I wonder that she acquires so much male interest initially only to lose it all upon proper acquaintance < 08@Morgan > god knows I do, since she has this remarkable habit of spreading everyone elses secrets and not her own * @Morgan suddenly comes to a conlusion and eyes Molly speculatively < 04Molly > 13I believe she spreads her own also. However, she does not have my trust, and knows nothing of my own secrets, even thought I have had to lie many times to cover my true feelings < 08@Morgan > I would keep it that way if I were you < 04Molly > 13I intend to, there are too many thing I wish to keep in my own heart * Molly smiles < 08@Morgan > Though my curiosity is picqued, I wouldn't be so bold as to ask... what you choose to tell me is exactly that... your choice < 04Molly > 13I would not tell you anything that would jepordise our friendship.... I will tell everything else, for it appears I am powerless to resist sharing with you * Molly grins at him * @Morgan is intrigued < 08@Morgan > I wonder what it is you fear would jeopordise our friendship * Molly looks away, her cheeks red < 08@Morgan > I suppose that since she did not tell you, Eiblinn does not know that it was the second time my life was saved that day < 04Molly > 13Was it? < 08@Morgan > indeed * Molly looks back, calmer * @Morgan speaks quietly < 08@Morgan > dont fret blossom, I would not push you to reveal that which you wish to keep secret * Molly leans in closer to hear < 04Molly > 13You might push, but my desire to satisfy you is less than my desire and need to have your company * Molly looks at him, taking in the colour of his eyes, a bright blue rarely seen on others, and deep enough to get lost in < 08@Morgan > A group of us were stood in a room in the house on that island.... and then... I was dead, lifeless on the floor * Molly shudders < 04Molly > 13What happened then? < 08@Morgan > Then I drew breath and found myself lying on the floor looking up at a group of bemused, frightened and confused people < 04Molly > 13Who healed you? * @Morgan looks slightly unsure < 08@Morgan > to begin with... I dont know... I was dead, of that I'm sure... then when I came round, I had the voice of Void in my mind... * Molly looks at him, her voice quiet, still leant in < 04Molly > 13What was it like, being dead? < 08@Morgan > it was... nothing < 08@Morgan > certainly it was better than the second time I was done in by those elementals < 04Molly > 13I wish I could have been there to aid you < 08@Morgan > anyway... Captain Tsaylur gave me some liquid that healed me somewhat... I suspect I would have died for the last time had I been injured again before that < 04Molly > 13I am more pleased than you can imagine that it was so, for I would be much agrevied to lose you * Molly drops her eyes < 08@Morgan > Truly it has taught me to choose my battles carefully < 08@Morgan > Many things of that trip haunt me... not least that damned creation... _thing_ basically telling me about my daughter < 04Molly > 13I should imagine that must have been more painful than any wound you sustained... < 08@Morgan > It is the first time another had mentioned it in a long time... I could not bear to be around him * Molly looks at him, unsure of what to say. Instead, she moves away and picks up her ale * @Morgan looks at the table for a moment before smiling < 08@Morgan > how goes your learning of language? < 04Molly > 13Slowly, although I have brought the books with me, as well as the continuing dalliances of Lady Daventry, of course * Molly looks back at him, smiling < 08@Morgan > tell me... have you had the thought yet that my parents had some sense of humour in my naming? * Molly looks puzzled < 08@Morgan > you know how to say hello in Eisen? < 04Molly > 13Apart from the fact that Morgan is an Avalonian name? < 08@Morgan > it mostly entertained my father and brother * Molly twigs < 04Molly > 13Ah, I understand. I do not find it amusing as much as charming. Like the morning, your presense is greatly welcomed by those who feel the darkness weighing upon them * @Morgan smiles broadly < 08@Morgan > I always said you're too clever by half * Molly smiles back at him < 04Molly > 13I believe you might be right, estimado curazon < 08@Morgan > I rather suspect you could wreack devastation amongt the upper classes, should you choose to < 04Molly > 13Had I come to nobility as a single maid, I might have set my sights on breaking the hearts of my would-be suitors... * @Morgan chuckles slightly < 08@Morgan > such easy accomplishments would entertain you for only so long < 04Molly > 13Aye, I would have to seek out real men from amongest the eligible young nobles, and win their hearts < 04Molly > 13Or perhaps I would have journeyed to Vodacce to be a courtesan there < 08@Morgan > now THAT is an overrated place < 04Molly > 13But the courtesans are renowned for being the most beautiful and clever women in theah... to comepete with them would be a challenge for a girl like me < 08@Morgan > not likely < 04Molly > 13To be a paid comapnion to so many, and keep each enamoured with my charms... that would be a challenge, but a pleasant one < 04Molly > 13Evie says they are just whores like the rest... I believe she doesnt know the difference between comapnion and mistress < 08@Morgan > I've wondered about a companion, should my time at the house come to an end < 04Molly > 13I know we have discussed you finding an appropriate girl, if the time comes... You can rest assured that she would be greatly envied * Molly looks away, picking up her drink and drinking deeply < 08@Morgan > Eiblinn has ideas of grandeur above her station I think... what she sees as whoring is something she would be lucky to be offered < 04Molly > 13Something that any girl in the position Evie and I are in would have been a great blessing, or being a kept companion. < 08@Morgan > I wonder how her... endeavour with Mr. Inigo will be received < 04Molly > 13I truly do not know < 04Molly > 13I would imagine she can be very persuasive < 08@Morgan > mmmm, indeed * Molly looks a little lost in thought < 08@Morgan > something on your mind blossom? * Molly blushes < 04Molly > 13I simply wondered how she managed to catch your affections < 08@Morgan > she dared persist < 04Molly > 13but obviously it was not a method that paid off well < 08@Morgan > Noone really _tried_ to get to know me... no, it didn't, but that is more down to her demands on my affections < 04Molly > 13Perhaps if she had not pushed you for marriage, she might have stood the chance of becoming your companion, if the time came? * Molly speaks quietly < 08@Morgan > I dont know... part of her charm was the childishness, but once that allure has passed, it is not a good trait in a companion < 04Molly > 13I wonder, what _does_ make a good companion? * Molly finishes her ale, slightly tipsy < 08@Morgan > Ummm... pretty much... you, actually * Molly swallows, preparing to speak, and begins to cough. Prone to such coughing fits, she tries to breathe slowly to wait for it to pass * @Morgan watches, concerned * Molly closes her eyes, focussing on not coughing... it passes, and slowly she is able to speak again < 04Molly > 13I never know why that always seems to happen to me... * Molly looks quickly at Morgan < 08@Morgan > If I recall correctly, you're prone to it due to a prior illness < 04Molly > 13Might I have a little of your ale, for it was finishing mine that brought on the coughing * Molly 's face shows that this is a lie... * @Morgan pushes the ale across the table * Molly takes a little, and hands it back < 08@Morgan > keep it, I've got something of my own * @Morgan takes a silver flash out of a pocket and takes a draw on it < 04Molly > 13I ought not to drink any more, for I fear it has gone to my head somewhat, and I've never been drunk before < 08@Morgan > I've rather toîo much experience of it < 04Molly > 13I think most people have apart from me < 08@Morgan > its not as entertaining as people seem to think < 04Molly > 13I never drank at my parents house, and have always been too busy with my chores at the house... and I feel quite tipsy now, and it amuses me * Molly giggles < 08@Morgan > Go steady blossom, you'll regret it in the morning if you have too much < 04Molly > 13I shan't drink more, all the bumps of the road would be most unpleasant I feel.... * Molly speaks lightly and playfully < 04Molly > 13So, why would I make such a good companion to a man? < 08@Morgan > you're clever, charming and beautiful, frankly * Molly looks away, blushing < 04Molly > 13and you say that it is I who is charming... < 08@Morgan > I am not charming, I am honest... after a fashion < 04Molly > 13Your honesty is flexible, meandering like a brook through a valley, sometimes wide and expansive, sometimes a narrow trickle, but always there, underneath, for those who search for it with good intent... * Molly giggles again softly < 08@Morgan > an interesting metaphor < 04Molly > 13That sounded very whimsical, did it not? < 08@Morgan > it did rather < 04Molly > 13And I agree with one of your three reasons... < 08@Morgan > ummm... being? < 04Molly > 13That I am clever.... I am hardly charming, for I would have the interest of many men if I were, and I am unsure that the looks I have are enough to be appealing, and certainly far from sehr schonste * Molly 's prounounciation is much better, and the eisen words flow from her mouth almost fluently, her accent very close to Morgan's own, it being the only Eisen she's heard < 08@Morgan > You're wrong < 08@Morgan > absolultely wrong < 04Molly > 13Did I use the wrong word? < 08@Morgan > you would have had the interest on suitors had you been of higher social stature. People dont notice household staff... < 04Molly > 13Perhaps that is true... maybe once I have a mirror, I shall see myself more and see the beauty that you see * @Morgan nods < 04Molly > 13Do you have a mirror Morgan? < 08@Morgan > with me? or in the house * Molly looks at him, her eyes soft and her expression open < 04Molly > 13in the house < 08@Morgan > I do < 04Molly > 13What do you see when you look there? < 08@Morgan > A bitter cynic < 08@Morgan > witha propensity for violence * Molly rests her hand on the table, her fingers idly tracing the grain in the wood < 04Molly > 13Then it is possible that my own mirror will only show what I believe, and not what I am, for you do not see a handsome man with a good soul, deserving of every happiness * Molly blushes, realising she's said something she didn't intend to * Molly looks at her fingers, circling a knot in the wood < 08@Morgan > No, I see what is really there... as I do in people < 04Molly > 13I think you are wrong, and you proclaim that I am so very clever, therefore in this instance, you might concede that you are wrong? < 08@Morgan > no, in this instance you are mistaken * Molly looks at Morgan, her gaze direct < 04Molly > 13You are a handsome man Morgan, and think you what you will on that, I still see it every time I look at you * Molly closes her eyes, and opens them slowly, slightly shaking her head < 08@Morgan > feeling the effects I take it? * @Morgan smiles slightly * Molly drops her eyes, looking at his chest < 04Molly > 13No, I was thinking how I had not intended to reveal that you are very attractive, one of the things I was intending not to risk ruining our friendship by uttering... and yet I still did * @Morgan shrugs < 08@Morgan > you're not the first woman under the influence to utter things that she might not think so true when sober * Molly looks up < 04Molly > 13It is not the drink talking, I have thought it from the first moment I saw you * @Morgan speaks quietly and slowly < 08@Morgan > I'm offering you an easy exit from the embarrassment I've no doubt you'll feel tomorrow... * Molly leans in, also talking quietly and slowly < 04Molly > 13I have no embarassment that I think you are attractive, just an embarassment that I seem unable to control my tongue where you are concerned < 08@Morgan > you do me an honour I do not deserve blossom. < 04Molly > 13By seeing your handsomeness, or by not feeling the urge to take back something said where fear has prevented me from speaking so before? < 08@Morgan > both, either, take your pick < 04Molly > 13You are very welcome, it is not more than you deserve... I have spoken before that I would do anything to increase your happiness, and complimenting you is quite easy, once I know that I shall not destroy our friendship by speaking some of what I contain < 08@Morgan > There is little you could say that would do such a thing as destroy out friendship * Molly blushes, certain that she could easily say things that would break it < 04Molly > 13I shall endeavour to remember that, liebes herz * Molly 's Eisen is creepily good * Molly continues to run her fingers over the grooves in the table without realising she's doing it < 04Molly > 13I took me a goodly while to pack for this trip, I have never had need to pack to travel before, and finding dresses without corsets it s challenge... < 08@Morgan > a fact I have noticed in women in the past < 04Molly > 13I was not looking to bring my best dresses though, I left the red one at the house... * Molly breaks off, looking away, remembering what she was told about the dress * @Morgan nods < 08@Morgan > probably wise < 04Molly > 13I am certain that my normal dresses will be fine enough, for I assume we wish to remain relatively unnoticed? * @Morgan shrugs < 08@Morgan > its hard to be noticed at all in Carleon < 04Molly > 13That will be a blessing I feel, for I should not want my actions to draw attention to you and reveal your secret < 08@Morgan > fear not, blossom, Carleon is far from the house * Molly smiles at him < 04Molly > 13I already feel incredibly far from home < 04Molly > 13It is easily ten times the distance from tawstock to the house < 08@Morgan > easily * Molly yawns, her hand covering her mouth < 04Molly > 13Goodness, I'm sorry < 04Molly > 13Will we leave early in the morning? < 08@Morgan > yes, we've another full day of travelling < 04Molly > 13Perhaps you might help me learn some more Eisen along the way? < 08@Morgan > I'll certainly try, while we're alone * Molly giggles < 04Molly > 13We shall have much time with no company before it is time to return to tawstock < 04Molly > 13I shall be fluent by the time we return < 08@Morgan > Indeed * Molly yawns again < 08@Morgan > That wouldn't surprise me in the least * @Morgan stands and heads towards the adjoining door < 04Molly > 13I fear I must be for my bed, or I shall be neither use nor ornament tomorrow * Molly stands, following him to the door < 08@Morgan > sleep well blossom < 04Molly > 13Morgan... < 04Molly > 13Might you leave the door unlocked, I will feel safer knowing that if I call you could come to my aid without hunting for a key in the dark... * Molly looks shyly at him, not sure she should ask < 08@Morgan > yes? < 08@Morgan > I'll leave it unlocked < 04Molly > 13Thank you... Sleep well, liebes herz * Molly moves to embrace him, but pauses, losing courage * @Morgan inclines his head < 08@Morgan > Guten Nacht < 04Molly > 13and to you... * @Morgan turns and walks out * Molly shuts the door behind him softly