< 04Molly > 13After a few hours, the middle of the night has come, the tavern dark. Outside the moon heads in to its waning phase, the light softer and more silvery. The storm clouds of earlier have drifted away to the east, towards Vendel to illuminate those islands with its sharp flashes. The streets around the tavern are quiet, and all the drinkers have gone home. < 04Molly > 13The moonlight streams theough the windows, gently illuminating both rooms. From Molly's room comes the sound of sleep-talk. It starts quietly, and builds, until she lets out a begging cry. She sounds afraid, desperate, and scared. < 04Molly > 13No, no, please, let me go... Let Me Go DAMN YOU! * Morgan forces the door open suddenly, looking purposeful and dangerous, searching for the non-existant assailant < 04Molly > 13The bed she sleeps in is a double, as in both rooms, the heavy eiderdown a pale green satin with brown edgings. She sleeps in the middle, unused to such a big bed to herself. She fidgets a great deal, her face belying the panick the dream inspires. There is a brief pause, a fraction of a second, breathing fast, heart racing. * Molly 's voice is panicked, full of pain as she cries out. Tears flow down her cheeks, her hands pushing firmly on her stomach. < 04Molly > 13Oh no, oh please no, not this, not him. Oh gods Morgan, please, please do not let this be! You must live. Please, please... Don't do this to me, I can't do anything... Please Morgan, please! * Morgan goes to the bed and shakes Molly vigorously * Molly wakes up with a start, tears coursing down her cheeks. She is shaking with fear. Seeing Morgan, she flings her arms around him, burying her face against his neck. Her tears are scalding hot, her face boiling. Yet she still shivers. * Morgan holds Molly tight and speaks in a soft voice < 14Morgan > hey now, whats wrong? < 04Molly > 13Oh thank the gods, it was just a nightmare... * Molly looks at him, taking in every detail, as if she's not so sure he's actually there < 14Morgan > Just a nightmare < 14Morgan > ye gods Molly, you gave me a scare * Molly looks down, embarassed < 04Molly > 13I am sorry, I did not mean to wake you < 14Morgan > you didn't * Molly looks puzzled < 04Molly > 13I do not understand... how did I frighten you if it were not to wake you suddenly from slumber? < 14Morgan > I feared you were being attacked * Molly meets his gaze < 04Molly > 13No, the things I suffered with were both better and worse than that, for although so very believeable, it has not truly happened < 14Morgan > I shall let you return to your sleep * Molly looks up < 04Molly > 13Please, would you stay with me a little? I would feel much better to tell you of my nightmare, that it might not return? < 14Morgan > of course * Molly sits upright, though she does not look at him < 04Molly > 13Thank you... it oft seems that I ask so much of you and give so little in return... < 14Morgan > your company is enough * Molly smiles at him, taking his hand < 04Molly > 13you are far too kind... Sit you comfortably, for I fear the tale might be a long one? * Morgan sits down on the edge of the bed * Molly moves over to give him more room if needed < 04Molly > 13We were at the estate, and it was a pleasant afternoon. The guests had insisted on walking in the forest, and so we all went. Along the way, I lost track of time, dawdling behind and picking evening blossoms whilst day dreaming. Suddenly, several shots rang out. I looked around, on the edge of the forest, no-one else in sight. With fear in my heart, and bandages in my hands instead of flowers, I entered the forest. * Molly holds on to his hand tightly, looking at her own fingers as she talks. Her voice is quiet, as if afraid to speak of that which she dreamed < 14Morgan > ahhh... forests < 04Molly > 13The full moon's light did not penetrate it, the woods thick and dark in shadow. I ran blindly, yet did not stumble. I knew not what danger might lie therein, but it mattered little. I heard the cries of you all, each calling my name alone. They were desperate, pained, urgent. I listened closely, but could not find anyone, so I walked forever onwards, the cries petering out one by one, a quiet keening before nothingness. < 14Morgan > always a bad start < 04Molly > 13Then the only voice I could hear was yours, and I ran towards your cries, my fear increasing at the pain in your voice. I found Evie and Jaeger together, both gravely injured. I tended her first, knowing that her weapon might provide me a good defense. Binding her head wound, she came round, and I moved to Jaeger, bandaging his broken and damaged legs. Neither could move more than a crawl, yet they would not let me go. I felt trapped, held firm by their needy hands, begging me to stay with them, to help them back to the house. I pulled at their hands, their grip firm upon me, until I lost patience and ordered them to not touch me. I escaped, calling to you. Your reply was quiet, breathy, and I knew time was short. I called over and over again, getting less response from you each time. Suddenly, I came to a clearing I did not recognise. < 04Molly > 13You lay in front of me, a wound to the stomach. I knelt before you, looking in to your eyes. I could see you were badly injured from the way that you looked at me alone. You begged me to help you, and I knew in that moment that my fear of being unable to act through hesitation was unfounded. * Molly starts to shake slightly, her voice becoming more tense * Morgan squeezes her hand * Molly squeezes back, glad of the comfort of his touch < 04Molly > 13I moved my hands to your belly, removing your own. I felt the hot wetness of your blood on my skin, saw it a vibrant scarlet, the only bright colour in the forest of gloom. It coursed out with every beat of your heart, a rhythmic pulsing. < 04Molly > 13I spoke to you, begging you not to die, and yet I knew you would, that I was too late. I knew that, had I not tended the others, I could have saved you. I looked at you, willing you to live with every ounce of me, yet feeling the blood flow less regularly as your heart began to falter. * Molly 's eyes fill with tears, illuminated by the gentle silver of the moon through the leaded windows < 04Molly > 13I felt an angry, futile hopelessness as I sat on the bed of leaves beside you, cradling you in my arms, knowing you would soon be gone, and knowing it was out of my own mistake... and it was at that moment when you awoke me. < 14Morgan > everyone will die some day blossom * Molly turns her face away, biting her lower lip < 04Molly > 13Yes, but I would not wish you to from my own mistake... < 14Morgan > believe me, were I to die, it would be from _my_ own mistake, or the intent of another < 04Molly > 13I have never had a nightmare seem so real... < 14Morgan > I have < 14Morgan > on many a night * Molly shivers < 04Molly > 13I do not envy you at all... to do this time and time again would rob me of any sleep, especially with no-one to soothe my fears < 14Morgan > Ahh, so you grasp why I patrol the house every hour or so overnight... * Molly strokes his hand with her fingertips < 04Molly > 13I did not, until now... Are your nightmares what I would assume them to be, given what I know? * Molly speaks quietly, the hushed tones normally reserved for churches and the dead of night < 14Morgan > I should think so < 04Molly > 13When was the last time you managed to sleep a full night without them waking you? < 14Morgan > probably... ummm... about two years ago... before they'd started * Molly looks at him, compassion in her eyes < 04Molly > 13I hope that will not always be the way for you < 14Morgan > I suspect it will be until either I can forgive myself or finally join them * Molly squeezes his hand. She looks in to his eyes, hers soft < 04Molly > 13I truly believe that one day you will forgive yourself... I feel that part of you wishes to do so, but another wishes you to remain in this prison of your own self-hatred < 14Morgan > Perhaps < 04Molly > 13As I have spoken before, if you need any aid from me, though I doubt I will be of any help whatsoever, you need only ask * Molly blushes, eyes downcast, thinking of the previous offers she made < 14Morgan > Truthfully I dont know that I want to forgive myself. < 04Molly > 13I do wonder that perhaps your desire to not be forgiven is all that holds you back, that forgiveness is within your grasp, but you choose to deny it... < 14Morgan > You may be right * Molly looks at him < 04Molly > 13Of anything, you have the right to choose how you wish to feel. No-one can force forgiveness upon you, much as we all wish for your happiness, it has to be your choice * Molly reaches up slowly, and strokes his face < 04Molly > 13Regardless of how you feel, to my mind, you are not to blame * Molly drops her hand, looking away < 04Molly > 13I think that any suggestion of a walk in the forest when the guests next come will be met with my vehement protests though... < 14Morgan > and mine < 04Molly > 13I hope my nightmare has not made you hesitant < 14Morgan > no, I have a rather strong dislike for forests anyway < 04Molly > 13And yet you seem to spend time in them often, such as the day you fell from the tree and I thought... * Molly looks away, embarassed at the assumption she had made < 14Morgan > I was retreiving something... though my dislike for the place is relatively common knowledge, my job requires that I go there * Molly looks at her hand in his, her face showing puzzlement < 04Molly > 13Did the map not show your homeland to contain much forest? < 14Morgan > I lived on the very edge of the Schwarzenwalder * Molly looks at him, not familiar with the term < 04Molly > 13Black....? < 14Morgan > black wood * Molly smiles < 04Molly > 13Oh I understand. Was it not difficult to live in such a place when you dislike forests so much? And more so to marry in one? < 14Morgan > I... didn't dislike the forest until I got lost in it < 14Morgan > have you ever heard of the schattenmann? < 04Molly > 13Not at all < 14Morgan > it resides in the Schwarzenwalder... I think the closest I can think of in terms of easy description is a spider * Molly shudders < 04Molly > 13There is something about spiders that sets my body to shiver, and not in a pleasant way < 14Morgan > somewhere between... fifteen and twenty feet tall * Molly 's fingers inadvertantly go to her lower lip, having temporaily forgotten her tell < 04Molly > 13Gods in theah, what a horrible thought! < 14Morgan > a fairly unpleasant creature of a folk tale, no? < 04Molly > 13Aye, I am so glad that the estate is in Avalon and not Eisen, for the creatures that are drawn to it from seeming folk tales are bad enough < 14Morgan > the schattenmann I have seen with my own eyes * Molly fidgets, turning her body to face his more, her skin bathed in the silver glow. Her eyes are solemn < 04Molly > 13No wonder then, that you fear the forest < 14Morgan > indeed < 04Molly > 13How did you escape? < 14Morgan > I didn't... I had absolutely no doubt then, nor now, that had I moved in its presence, my life would have been at an end < 14Morgan > after it had gone, I started wandering, trying to find my way home * Molly squeezes his hand < 04Molly > 13You are far braver than I, for fear would have shaken me in to a fatal mistake < 14Morgan > I suspect the fire I had started burning shielded me from its vision < 04Molly > 13Wise thinking there... I have always wondered why you seem less afraid of the monsters that frequent the torrington estate than you rightly should be < 14Morgan > partly anger, blossom... I hold it in check so much that the chances to release some of it are relished * Molly giggles softly < 04Molly > 13And yet to me, you are naught but a pussycat * Morgan shrugs < 14Morgan > strangely, you are not the first to say that to me in these last few months * Molly looks away < 04Molly > 13There are many things I recall you informing me that you had already been told by another... < 14Morgan > simply those with less sense than you when it comes to keeping their mouths shut < 04Molly > 13Is that possible, that someone might have _less_ sense than I at keeping their mouths shut around you?! * Molly looks back with a smile < 14Morgan > oh, they dont seem to perceive the fact I'm not altogether comfortable with people actually knowing me < 04Molly > 13Oh Morgan, no-one will ever truly know you, for you are far more complex than any normal man... < 14Morgan > I'm not entirely sure _I_ know who I am < 04Molly > 13I can only tell you what I know from what I've seen of you... that you are a good, kind, generous, intelligent and deep man, who fails to see his own worth < 14Morgan > pah. I'm cantankerous, unpredictable, unreliable. * Molly smiles at him < 04Molly > 13I will not lie and deny that _sometimes_ you can be all three... though often, you are just one < 14Morgan > ahhh, but that... is an image < 04Molly > 13that you are all three, or that you are only one? < 14Morgan > both < 14Morgan > though... no... being unpredictable isn't part of an image I project * Molly looks at him, her eyes intense, the blueness heightened by the low light. She speaks softly < 04Molly > 13I can not help but think, here in Carleon, you have been more your true self than for a goodly while < 14Morgan > quite probably < 04Molly > 13I am greatly pleased to have met the true Morgan... * Molly says his name, though it is cut short, as if she was going to say more < 04Molly > 13And no, your unpredictability is not forced, to my mind... You have behaved in ways I never believed to be possible < 14Morgan > such as? * Molly looks slightly embarassed < 04Molly > 13I would never have believed you would have kissed me... < 14Morgan > ah, see, most people believe I'm only barely human, so wouldn't be capable of such a thing * Molly tenses up < 04Molly > 13then be damned, the lot of them, for your humanity far surpasses theirs... You are much better than such judgemental imbeciles < 14Morgan > such harshness doesn't suit you, my sweet girl < 04Molly > 13I am passionate in my defense of your character... I was recently asked if I was a passionate woman, and at the time, I said no... * Molly looks at her hands < 14Morgan > I think we can both testify to that being a falsehood * Molly blushes < 04Molly > 13I did not realise that passion would come so easily to me, that I was too much in control of my own mind to be swayed by its appeal < 04Molly > 13I had thought that I was not destined to ever feel it... < 14Morgan > funny how life does that to you... < 04Molly > 13The reason that I was of the belief that such a thing would be impossible was because if you think about a potential occurance too deeply, it diminishes in your mind as ever being a possibilty * Molly looks away, realising that she's said far more than intended * Morgan smiles slightly < 14Morgan > been on your mind for a while, has it * Molly looks down at the bedspread < 04Molly > 13Long enough that to confess it might cause you to change your like of me, though it was not a constant thought... < 14Morgan > my my, Eiblinn would be upset * Molly looks throughly ashamed < 04Molly > 13I know, and I truly feel awful about that < 14Morgan > I wouldn't worry < 14Morgan > the girl is duplicitous enough for it to not be such a crime against her < 04Molly > 13Though in my defense, I did push aside my idle crush when I saw that there was something between you... * Molly speaks quickly, not meeting his eyes, flustered < 04Molly > 13Well, not a crush so much as... it was... just the wanderings of the mind of a lonely girl I suppose * Morgan nods slowly < 04Molly > 13I have been your friend for many months for friendships sake alone, I would not wish you to be distrustful of my intent. Oh, had that I had not spoken! < 14Morgan > I'm sure < 04Molly > 13Can my tongue not be still around you? * Morgan laughs softly * Molly blushes, dropping her eyes < 14Morgan > evidently not < 04Molly > 13Even in my apology, I can not help but make matters worse! < 14Morgan > what is there to make worse? < 04Molly > 13That you might believe all of this to be intentional on my part... had I not revealed my previous affection for you, you would have been none the wiser, and I would not have been embarassed, for I truly never meant for you to know * Morgan shrugs < 14Morgan > I do not distrust your intentions Molly * Molly looks relieved < 04Molly > 13Good, for so many would be inclined to interpret things otherwise < 14Morgan > let them... for all the good it will do them * Molly smiles softly, looking at him, but not meeting his eyes < 04Molly > 13I had no intention of anyone ever knowing... < 14Morgan > then what they would've thought is of no consequence < 04Molly > 13Very true... * Molly moves closer to him, tentatively < 04Molly > 13Nothing is of any consequence to me right now, for I have found that here in carleon, I have found the chance to experience things as I have wished, and to be myself without hinderance < 04Molly > 13I have only you to thank for that... < 14Morgan > You thank me for nothing. It has been my pleasure to have you at my side * Molly speaks very quietly, her eyes downcast < 04Molly > 13I have never felt as much pleasure at anything than having been able to be so * Molly flicks her eyes up shyly, trying to gauge his reaction < 14Morgan > funny how things turn out < 04Molly > 13Is it? < 14Morgan > oh yes < 14Morgan > its a fairly common belief that I am unable to care for anyone at all < 04Molly > 13You care greatly for your friends, and that is plain to see... < 14Morgan > no its not... certainly not to those who aren't in that particular category < 04Molly > 13I have never had trouble in seeing that you care for the friendship we have... * Molly speaks slowly, picking her words carefully. < 14Morgan > the friendship? < 14Morgan > for someone so clever you can be amazigly dull witted * Molly nods < 04Molly > 13I find some puzzles too taxing, particularly anything close to home... * Molly meets his eyes, after several attempts, but can not hold it < 14Morgan > it is not our friendship that I care for < 04Molly > 13Then, dearest one, what _is_ it you care for? < 14Morgan > you, you soft minded girl * Molly looks up at him through lowered lashes, her face flushed, and her pulse racing through her hand in his * Molly doesnt speak, but bites her lower lip, concealing barely a huge smile * Molly moves closer, wrapping her arms around him underneath his own. She embraces him tightly, and then loosens her grip, moving away a little < 14Morgan > hard as it may be to believe, I do have feelings < 04Molly > 13I have never doubted that, only that your feelings might be in any way directed at me... < 14Morgan > for some time now * Molly blushes < 04Molly > 13You kept your cards almost perfectly concealed < 14Morgan > practice < 04Molly > 13The only time I really had any cause to stop and consider the possibility was the day I nearly drowned, and you said that you might do much worse than have me as a mistress... it is not usually the sort of statement a girl hears from a man who is not in some way in possesion of an affection for her < 14Morgan > a fair observation < 14Morgan > and accurate, evidently < 04Molly > 13it was a very minor slip mind you... I often had to question in my mind if you had said it at all * Molly looks at him, then her gaze slips to his lips before she quickly looks away < 04Molly > 13I have often thought about the things you have said, long after they were spoken... < 14Morgan > such as? < 04Molly > 13When you took my hand upon leaving my room, and told me how you would sorely hate to lose me... < 04Molly > 13The times you've called me blossom, times you've praised my looks, my mind... It has never gone unnoticed... * Molly drops her eyes, looking at his chest < 14Morgan > and never was it meant to * Molly looks up in suprise < 04Molly > 13I had believed that each was said idly, without preplanning < 14Morgan > you think me foolish enough to say such things around such a sharp mind if I wished it not to be noticed? < 14Morgan > no planning was involved < 04Molly > 13I believed that you did not hold any affection for me, and therefore such statements were insignificant to you... * Molly looks embarassed at having made such an assumption * Morgan nods slowly < 14Morgan > indeed... and you believed, for a time, that I am nothing more than a cantankerous master at arms < 04Molly > 13yes, and I am ashamed by that, though I was much more naive then, and was not as adept at understanding others... although, it appears I am not as good as I believed! < 04Molly > 13My very first reaction to you was not that of a girl faced with working hard in a house under a master with high standards, though that reaction came very quickly < 14Morgan > no? * Molly takes a deep breath, biting her lip * Molly speaks quietly < 04Molly > 13My first thought was that you were the most beautiful man I had ever lain eyes upon... * Molly looks away < 14Morgan > I think perhaps you need your eyes examining * Molly moves closer, only a few inches from him. She opens her eyes wide. They are so blue, so full of honesty and trust, and sparkle with her unbreakable spirit < 04Molly > 13I would wish that you could only see yourself through my eyes, and see how incredible you are.... * Molly moves in closer, so that she is against him, her lips only two inches from his, when her nerves get the better of her and she hesitates * Morgan leans into her, pressing his lips to hers * Molly opens her mouth to him almost immediately, exploring his mouth with her nimble tongue. She stays in his arms, wearing just her nightshift, pressed against him. Unlike an embrace in her stays, her every curve merges against him, so soft, so very warm. Her hair smells faintly of rosewater. * Morgan brings his hand to Molly's neck, just below her ear, while his tongue dances around hers * Molly shivers under his hand, and presses closer to him. She idly strokes her fingers up the middle of his back * Morgan pulls away gently, disengaging his tongue from hers * Molly lets him go * Molly smiles < 04Molly > 13I believe it was almost worth having the nightmare for.... < 04Molly > 13And it is good that you need have no fear of overstepping the boundaries, for I know well enough your situation to know that you would never desire anything from me that I would even need to _think_ about before yielding to you... < 14Morgan > almost? < 14Morgan > that, blssom, could be taken in more ways than one < 04Molly > 13Could it? < 14Morgan > indeed < 04Molly > 13I'm not sure i understand how... * Molly smiles slightly < 14Morgan > thats probably best * Molly looks thoughtful, and then blushes < 04Molly > 13That I did not say that were you to desire more from me than you can, that I would immediately deny you... * Molly moves away, embarassed < 14Morgan > thankfully, I'm no so coarse as to think it that way < 14Morgan > you must, once married, be much more careful about the possible implications of your statements blossom * Molly looks at the window, the light less as the moon has moves through the sky < 04Molly > 13Once I am married, it matters little what I say, for I would never be able to uphold anything mistaken in my words < 14Morgan > no, but... never make thhe mistake of thinking that noone would notice them * Molly pulls the eiderdown up, hugging it to her for comfort * Molly speaks quietly < 04Molly > 13You're right, as always, things will have to change < 14Morgan > or rather... go back to normal < 04Molly > 13Normal for a little while, until I have to leave... * Molly looks to him, with a small smile < 04Molly > 13I think perhaps I should try to sleep now < 14Morgan > you will always be welcome there, as long as I serve there * Morgan stands < 14Morgan > good idea blossom < 04Molly > 13I know Morgan, and I appreciate that hospitality * Molly takes his hand, and kisses it softly < 04Molly > 13Sleep well, dearest one * Morgan inclines his head slightly before walking through to his own room, shutting the door behind him < 04Molly > 13The next day, they finally managed to see the play she had been waiting to see, and she watched in complete rapture. Having drunk in the theater, she giggles and laughs all of the journey back to the tavern. Before retiring she kisses him once more, her shyness washed away by her tipsyness. < 04Molly > 13The next morning, she feels no ill effect from the drink, but has been subdued since they left the city on the long journey to Avebury. She talked about Carleon, and the things they had seen there, often touching the bracelet on her wrist. For some of the time, she watches the miles go by, eyes unfocused. < 04Molly > 13As dusk comes, the carriage pulls in to the village of Avebury. Molly watches the stone circle through the window.As the coach pulls in to the darkened yard, the lights of many candles twinkle all around the tavern. Shouts of joy and pounding music can be heard. Old Arthur comes out to greet the coach, leaning heavily on his stick, but walking faster than usual. His face is a picture of joy. He opens the door, leaning in. < 04Molly > 13 7 Ho there, who travels on this coach? * Morgan leans over slightly and raps the man on the head with a stick < 14Morgan > Arthur, have I not told you before of the perils of stickin' yer 'ead into any ol' passin' carriage? < 04Molly > 13 4 Now, normally I wouldne put up with such from a whippersnapper the likes o' you, but nowt can spoil the festivites herebouts, an I wont let a little bruise stop me! * Molly smiles, remembering that she is a lady here. < 14Morgan > whippersnapper? I rather think ye've gotten drunk again... whats the fetivities you deleriously mention? < 04Molly > 13 4 He moves out of the way of the door 7 Will you come in an 'ave a few drinks to whet the baby's 'ed? God help the lad, Maelwys has a son! * Molly gathers her bag, waiting patiently * Morgan tumbles out of the carriage < 14Morgan > why din't ya say so? * Morgan turns to help Molly down * Molly takes his hand, getting out < 04Molly > 13 4 He eagerly leads the way towards the tavern * Morgan picks up the bags and follows on * Molly follows on behind < 04Molly > 13 4 Inside, the tavern is brightly lit, decorated with all manner of garlands of flowers. The beer flows freely, and in the centre of the room a group dances, the beat fast The other drinkers cheer and clap along. The atmosphere is lovely, everyone in good cheer. Behind the bar stands Malewys, many drinkers surrounding him. < 04Molly > 13 4 He is already quite drunk, still serving drinks to patrons , a whole host of his own put to one side as each patron pays for him to have one to match. Molly looks around, having never been anywhere with such a nice feeling of joy to it. < 04Molly > 13 4 The dancing, steps similar to those she learnt in the house, is less formal, men swinging their women around whilst holding them close, not the respectible distance as she was taught. She is lost in watching them. * Morgan watches them for a moment before pushing his way to the bar < 04Molly > 13 4 Maelwys spots him 7 Randall! I gots me a son and heir! 4 The other patrons laugh, a few of them recognise Morgan, and greet him * Molly follows Morgan to the bar, beaming, enjoying the party immensely < 14Morgan > so I hear, y'ol dog. What have ye named the poor baern? < 04Molly > 13Is a fine name... we're callin 'im Gawain... * Morgan nods < 14Morgan > A stout and hearty name for the lad, an no mistake < 04Molly > 13 7 Will ye 'av a drink, before I show 'im to ye? 4 He is already pouring two tankards of ale * Molly looks back to the dancers < 14Morgan > O' course ol' friend... be min'ful ye don' drop him though < 04Molly > 13 4 He hands the drinks over 7 I may be drunk, but I'm not so drunk to drop me own boy! 4 He stumbles on his way round the bar * Molly takes her drink, sipping it. She smiles at Morgan < 04Molly > 13I could really come to like this place... < 14Morgan > It grows on you, I'll grant you that < 04Molly > 13Everyone seems so nice... < 04Molly > 13 4Maelwys goes to a small group in the corner, and removes a large sheet wrapped bundle from the arms a beautiful blonde woman. He comes to Morgan, revealing the face of a newborn baby, with big blue eyes and a few wisps of dark hair. < 04Molly > 13 7 I present me son to ye, 'andsome ain't he? Just like his da'! * Molly looks at the baby, only a few days old * Morgan leans into the small child, very close, speaking very very quietly and says... < 14Morgan > gesegnet seien Sie kleines < 04Molly > 13 4 Gawain looks at Morgan, his eyes well focused for such a young baby * Molly looks at Morgan, making a note to ask him later < 04Molly > 13 4 Maelwys doesn't notice. He hands the baby carefully to Morgan, and takes a tankard of ale from the hand of a well-wisher. He drinks some, before handing back the empty tankard. And, I think, if she obliges me, I might av the first dance with your young lady 'ere, whilst you're busy! He nods towards the baby. * Molly blushes, smiling * Morgan holds the baby, glancing towards Molly * Molly looks between them, and then nods shyly < 04Molly > 13 4 He takes Molly's hand, and kisses it. She giggles, and puts her bag at Morgan's feet, her face an apology. They go to the dancefloor, and she dances one song with him, finding it odd to dance so much closer with a stranger, and yet pleasant. Gawain lies quiet in Morgan's arms, staring up at him intently. He is solid, but not heavy. On the dancefloor, they talk a little, and Molly can be seen to be blushing, and shaking her head. He soon leads her back to Morgan. He holds out his arms to take Gawain from him. * Morgan hands over the child * Molly is slightly out of breath, but all smiles < 04Molly > 13That was wonderful, thank you, I have not danced for many moons, and I had begun to think I might have forgotten how! < 04Molly > 13 7 Like many things, once you do it, you never forget, eh Randall?! * Molly blushes, looking to Morgan < 14Morgan > manners Maelwys, y'er in the presence of a lady < 04Molly > 13 7 I'm sorry mi'lady, I meant no offense * Molly smiles < 04Molly > 13None taken I assure you. < 04Molly > 13 7 You want the rooms you 'ad before, I assume? 4 He looks at Molly, who nods < 04Molly > 13 4 He looks to Morgan < 14Morgan > if ye've got 'em free < 04Molly > 13 7 I 'av 'ad since ye left, knowing ye'd be back... 4 He calls a young lad, who takes all their bags to get the rooms ready. Maelwys shows them to the small table that his wife sits at. < 04Molly > 13 4 Malewys hands Gawain to Anna, his wife, and quickly she and Molly start to talk, as women often do. Maelwys talks to Morgan quietly < 04Molly > 13So, how was yer visit to the fair capital of this 'ere island? < 14Morgan > 'ow is any trip to that place... overcrowded, cant get a decent nights kip... < 04Molly > 13 7 Ahhh but the wenching is.... 4 He catches a sharp look from his wife 7 ... far overrated in comparison to domestic bliss * Molly stiffles a giggle < 04Molly > 13 4 More drinks are brought to the table, along with bread, meat and cheese. < 14Morgan > wenches there 'ave seldom pleased the eye nearly so easily as Anna, and much less often the soul * Molly drinks slowly < 04Molly > 13 4 Anna looks up from the baby 12 Thank you, I have been trying to tell 'im that all along! 4 Maelwys kisses her cheek * Molly smiles at Morgan < 04Molly > 13 4 Maelwys looks to Morgan 7 I'll have to live vicariously through ye then, my friend... 'av chance to do any wenching on your trip? * Molly 's fingers go to her lower lip automatically * Morgan smiles conspiratorially < 14Morgan > there was this one lass.... fine as a summers day, beauty to rival Anna's < 04Molly > 13 4 He nods eagerly 7 Must have cost you a good few guilder! Such pretty wenches are hard to find... * Molly smiles, looking at Morgan through lowered eyelashes < 14Morgan > easily worth all the guilders in the queens treasury < 04Molly > 13 4 Clearly the more perceptive of the two, Anna looks between Molly and Morgan, and then slowly hands Gawain to Molly, who takes him carefully. < 04Molly > 13 4 Maelwys looks at Molly 7 And all this skirt-chasing while ye're his ward, but not his Companion or Mistress! 4 There is something in the way he says it that makes it sound as if he knows, rather than suspect this to be the case * Molly looks at the baby in her arms < 04Molly > 13I believe if he found a woman who is worth so much, he should be allowed his fill of her, regardless of what my relationship with him is * Molly smiles broadly * Morgan looks at Maelwys < 14Morgan > did you understand the first word of what they said? < 04Molly > 13 4 Maelwys grins, now very drunk 7 I barely understand what I say, let alone anyun else! I think ye 'ave free reign to do what ye want with this job though, and that's nowt to be sniffed at! * Molly smiles. She holds Gawain to her, his mother looking relieved to not have him permanately in her arms. He wraps his tiny hand around molly's finger, and she smiles at Morgan. Gawain's eyes are the same colour as Molly's and his features are also similar < 04Molly > 13 4 Maelwys looks back to Morgan 7 Where do ye travel next? Not given any thought to stayin 'ere in our village? < 14Morgan > 'er ladyship 'as expressed a desire to see the western coasts, so we'll be 'eading that way then turning north fer'ome * Molly nods, even though she has no clue. She hopes not to be asked < 04Molly > 13 4 Maelwys stands 7 Beautiful wife, more gorgeous than any wench in Carleon, will ye give me the 'onor of this dance? 4 Anna looks to molly and gawain. With an encouraging nod, Molly lets her go, holding Gawain who sleeps peacefully. They go to the dance floor * Molly looks to Morgan < 04Molly > 13Why did you not make this place your home? These people are so... normal, so kind * Morgan sits down at the table < 14Morgan > many reasons < 14Morgan > These people hold nothing in reserve, no secrets, no ambitions... they are honest in everything they do... I felt dishonourable just being among them... < 14Morgan > and... servants of my family drew too close... I had to leave in a hurry * Molly looks intrigued, and slowly slides across the bench, not disturbing Gawain at all < 04Molly > 13That is very sad, for it seems like a lovely place to live * Molly looks down at Gawain's sleeping face < 14Morgan > It is... I spent many a peaceful day here < 14Morgan > followed by a rawkus night < 04Molly > 13I am not in the slightest suprised, for Maelwys seems like a man who has lived every second of his life in the moment, without thought or hestiation < 04Molly > 13 4 Around them, the drinkers cheer and clap loudly for the new parents dance, giving them a small space of privacy < 04Molly > 13He asked me whether I was actually your Companion, or Mistress... * Molly looks down at the table < 14Morgan > did he now... and what did you tell him? < 04Molly > 13I told him exactly what you had told him, that I was neither... I would not be fool enough to give you up like that * Molly looks at him, trying to read his reaction < 14Morgan > cheeky old devil * Molly giggles. She looks out to the dancefloor, watching them dance together. She sighs softly < 04Molly > 13It was lovely to dance again < 14Morgan > I'm glad you enjoyed yourself < 04Molly > 13I did! Even here, you do not dance? Have you been anywhere that you have? * Molly 's tone shows that what she means is more to do with the parts he plays than the geography < 14Morgan > a long time ago, I danced * Molly looks away < 04Molly > 13I'm sorry, that was foolish of me, I should have thought before asking < 14Morgan > I have danced here < 14Morgan > but I've long decided I wouldn't again... since spinning around and around makes me quite ill < 04Molly > 13Oh! That is a shame, I would imagine you are a very good dancer < 14Morgan > awful, actually < 04Molly > 13Aye, I would guess that is not the only skill you claim not to have when actually you have it in spades * Molly 's fingers go to her lip, and she laughs upon catching herself. Shaking her head, she speaks < 04Molly > 13I am far too readable... < 14Morgan > indeed you are blossom < 04Molly > 13It is a good thing that only you can understand quite what that reaction means though < 14Morgan > oh absolutely * Molly smiles as Maelwys and Anna return to the table, he nearly falls over in the process of sitting down. * Molly hands Gawain back < 04Molly > 13 4 They stay up late that night, welcoming Gawain in to the world, and enjoying the company of the village folk. They set out the next day for bridgewater, and the time flies by, mostly in a companiable silence. < 04Molly > 13Custennin welcomes them with open arms, providing a good meal and a soft bed, preparing them well for the long stretch between bridgewater and tawstock < 04Molly > 13 4 They set off the next morning, carriage loaded. Molly waves good bye through the window, and settles quietly. The day is overcast, but as they pass by fields bare of the harvest crop, the sun comes through. Midday comes and goes, and the afternoon passes by. As the time goes on, Molly becomes more tense, more fidgety < 04Molly > 13 4 By the time late afternoon comes, the sun is moving towards the horizon, and Molly has not spoken for a few miles. They go over the bridge that marks the outskirts of the town of Tawstock, and round the bend. < 04Molly > 13 4 The coach approaches the large hill that keeps Tawstock from sight. Having been subdued for a few miles, Molly suddenly begs the coach to stop. She gets out, walking back around the bend, out of sight of the coach. < 04Molly > 13 4 She walks towards a little bridge fording a stream. She stands beside it, leaning on the wooden rail, eyes closed, the sun on her face. She is obviously deep in thought. * Morgan watches, concerned * Molly grips the wooden rail tightly, eyes still closed. She breathes slowly and deeply * Morgan goes to Molly < 14Morgan > are you alright? * Molly speaks quietly, eyes still closed < 04Molly > 13I need a minute to gather my thoughts. It is now upon us, the moment of dawn, and I must let it go, though it pains me. These last few days have filled my soul and heart with joy. I have found the freedom to act exactly as I wish, motivated by my own desires alone, as I have yearned, and it has been blissful. But it is not what destiny wishes of me, and I must let it go. < 14Morgan > destiny... may wish this be part of your journey to your destination... * Molly looks to him, not meeting his gaze < 04Molly > 13But the trip to Carleon is over, and now things must be as they were... < 14Morgan > indeed, but that is not to say that this is the final part of your life... It is yet another pass along the journey to where your life will end up < 04Molly > 13I hope that one day I know joy like I have had again < 14Morgan > I'm certain of it < 04Molly > 13You have made this trip magical for me... < 14Morgan > then all of my masquerading was worth it * Molly looks startled < 04Molly > 13Masquerading? You mean you have pretended everything? * Molly 's bottom lip starts to quiver, and she turns away so he does not see her cry < 14Morgan > Its... difficult being so many varients of myself in such a short space of time < 14Morgan > it was hard on me to see Maelwys... it reminded me of better, easier times... < 14Morgan > And it was... strange... being who I _really_ am, doing what I actually wanted to do... for the first time in so long * Molly looks back at him, tears filling her eyes < 04Molly > 13It was not _all_ masquerade? Not the way you treated me, nor the things you said? < 14Morgan > none of that < 14Morgan > For some time it hasn't been * Molly smiles, wiping her tears on the back of her hand < 04Molly > 13I fear I may have misinterpreted you... I can certainly see how the trip must have weighed upon you, and you have my undying gratitude for your effort... < 14Morgan > for which there is no need < 04Molly > 13One thing I have definately learnt in my time at the house, gratitude should be given where it is deserved, and you have certainly gone above and beyond the call of duty for our friendship < 14Morgan > nonsense * Molly moves to him, and takes his hand < 04Molly > 13whether or not you believe it, you have... These last few months you have done many things for me that have been above the call of duty, as a friend < 04Molly > 13You are much too good, too kind... < 14Morgan > making up for past failings, perhaps * Molly turns away, looking at the stream below the bridge < 04Molly > 13I think it is part of who you are, and has nothing to do with your past < 04Molly > 13You are a much better man than you believe yourself to be, and no less than I believe you to be < 14Morgan > you do me more honour than I deserve < 04Molly > 13You deserve far more than I could give you * Molly speaks quietly, her eyes fixed on the stream < 04Molly > 13Before, I wondered, _if our lives were different_, could I give you my heart? Now I wonder if I could stop myself... * Morgan speaks quietly < 14Morgan > never so easy as just dont do it * Molly looks puzzled * Morgan shakes his head < 14Morgan > nevermind * Molly goes to speak, then thinks better of it * Molly looks to him, trying to read him, unsure what she dares say. Her face shows that she searches for something in his expression < 14Morgan > what is it blossom? < 04Molly > 13I am not sure that I can speak my mind without losing your friendship, and I am struggling with that < 14Morgan > There is barely anything that could break our friendship * Molly looks away, her shyness returning. She speaks very softly < 04Molly > 13I think that it is in some ways a blessing that given our fates, our Companionship ends now, because it would be too easy to fall in love with you, and even the knowledge that you could never love me in return would not be enough to prevent that. * Molly turns away, knowing that it is probably far enough to break their friendship * Morgan rubs his face wearily < 14Morgan > The affection I hold for you both confuses and frightens me, blossom. * Molly turns to him warily, eyes downcast < 14Morgan > I suspect that, were I further along in the grieving process, it would be all too easy to surrender my heart to you < 14Morgan > the fact that I even think I could feel that again scares and shames me * Molly feels her heart skip a beat < 04Molly > 13I would never wish to make you feel that way. Though my affection for you is great, I would never ask for you to compromise your own promises and principles. I seek nothing from you, dearest one < 14Morgan > I know * Molly looks at ground < 04Molly > 13I was not expecting this... < 04Molly > 13I have for many moons craved your time and attention, but I had not considered the possibilty that being with you might put my heart at risk * Molly feels slightly unnerved by the silence, and can't help but continue * Molly speaks quietly, scarce more than a whisper < 04Molly > 13You would be my heart's downfall, Morgan Koertig... * Molly looks out over the stream, kicking herself mentally for using his proper name < 14Morgan > I think you exaggerate, Miss Forrester * Molly shakes her head < 04Molly > 13The potential is there. It is in my mind as I learn from you, speak to you, know you. It is in my heart, when I see you, miss you, need you. It is in my body, when I am near you, in sensations that I dare not even speak of... * Molly tails off at the last, her face scarlet red < 14Morgan > I think you'll find thats most like to be hiccoughs < 04Molly > 13I am sorry, I must have spoken out of turn for you to mock me so... * Molly looks ashamed * Molly looks at him, trying to determine his thoughts < 14Morgan > I do not mock you... I try to give you an avenue to avoid... telling me things you probably wish to keep secret * Molly laughs quietly < 04Molly > 13Of the things I have spoken to you, the simpleness of passion is the least of the troubling things I have revealed < 04Molly > 13Far more concerned am I that I would risk our friendship by speaking my fears of falling in love with you... * Molly looks away < 14Morgan > you do not risk it at all < 04Molly > 13But I spoke it, knowing that it was a possibility... In truth, part of me believed you might be very angry, because you might see a similarity between myself and Evie, and that has not left your friendship on solid ground at all < 14Morgan > Miss O'Treasigh and I had no friendship before hand... * Molly smiles < 04Molly > 13True enough < 04Molly > 13So you are not angry at my fears? < 14Morgan > not at all * Molly looks very relieved < 04Molly > 13Then might I ask something of you? < 14Morgan > you can ask * Molly looks unsure < 04Molly > 13Can I kiss you once more, the last time I will ever be able to? * Morgan nods slowly * Molly walks to him, never feeling more nervous than at this very second. * Molly stands up on her tiptoes, pressing her body against his as she presses her lips to his also. She slowly opens hers to him, waiting to feel his reaction * Morgan gently pushes his tongue between her lips, much gentler than previous kisses * Molly kisses him slowly, softly, tenderly. There is more than pure passion in it, and she loses herself, her mind soley focused on the sensation of the kiss. She does not feel the breeze, nor the sun, nor the earth beneath her. It is pure sensation, that that she had wished for, not knowing the strings that came attached * Molly draws away with a small sigh, kissing his lips, once, then twice, as he did her the first time * Morgan kisses her back, adding the third, as before, but their positions reversed * Molly pulls away, her soft hand against his cheek. She can not speak, but her eyes have it all, sorrow, compassion, regret, desire, fear... * Molly breaks the eye contact, turning away < 04Molly > 13We need to go back, we will be expected by now * Morgan nods * Molly pulls her shoulders back, standing straighter than she has, less relaxed. < 04Molly > 13If you wait for me in the carriage, I shall be along in a moment... * Morgan climbs into the coach * Molly removes the Lady Daventry book from her bag, and in a rare moment of pure frustration throws it far out over the bridge, watching it fall into the stream and be washed out towards the sea. She turns, and gets in the carriage quietly. < 04Molly > 13 4 After being given the order, the carriage heads back through tawstock, past her parents house, through the village and uptowards the Torrington House, where the future waits, come what may... < 04Molly > 13~*~*~*~*~*~* THE END ~*~*~*~*~*~*