* @Morgan nods, breathing slowly
* Molly blushes, and turns away, picking up her bonnet
< 04Molly > perhaps I have said too much
< 08@Morgan > no... not at all... I rather think I have no said enough until now
* Molly smiles softly at him as she places the bonnet on carefully
< 04Molly > I was happy with the affections you were able to express, dear heart
< 08@Morgan > thats as maybe
* Molly raises an eyebrow as she ties the ribbons into a bow
< 04Molly > but?
< 08@Morgan > you deserved more
* Molly blushes again, clumsily mis-tying the bow
< 04Molly > You hold me in a far higher regard than I deserve
< 08@Morgan > I dont think so
* Molly makes a concentrated effort, and gets the bow right. She gently touches his upper arm
< 04Molly > You have said it now, dear heart, and should feel no regret at not saying it sooner
* Molly moves away and picks up her cloak
< 08@Morgan > I suppose we'd best be away
Session Time: Sun May 10 00:00:00 2009
< 04Molly > definately, I would wish for this to be concluded immediately
< 08@Morgan > quite so
* Molly puts her cloak on, and waits by the door
* @Morgan goes to the door, taking up his sword and placing it back on his belt and donning his heavy coat
< 04Molly > I would still wish to go to Tawstock to look for a couch afterwards, if it pleases you?
< 08@Morgan > of course blossom
* Molly opens the door, and steps out in to the sunlight
< 04Molly > and upon our return, I must see Mr Jameson about the fabrics I shall need... I think you mentioned something about seeing the smith?
< 08@Morgan > aye, I should I suppose
* Molly smiles broadly as she pulls the door closed behind them, locking it.
< 04Molly > I believe it would be bad luck for you to see the dress before the special day, and truly, I have had enough bad luck to not encourage any more
< 08@Morgan > quite so
< 04Molly > therefore a visit to the smith might be wise..
< 08@Morgan > ahhh... a sort of "clear off while I'm busy"
* Molly looks pained
< 04Molly > Of course not, dear heart... were I not hoping to surprise you, and leave you awed the moment I walk down the aisle, I would welcome your company
* @Morgan smiles
< 08@Morgan > it shall be as you wish
* Molly giggles
< 04Molly > that you will not accompany me, or that you will be in awe of me?
< 08@Morgan > both, I shoudl think
* Molly walks beside him down past the house and rose garden on the path past the school house. she looks at it, anxious and slightly guilty
< 04Molly > are you nervous, dear heart?
< 08@Morgan > do I look nervous?
* Molly looks at him, trying to read him
< 04Molly > No... but then how one appears, and how one truly feels can be very different
< 08@Morgan > very true
* Molly smiles softly as they enter the outskirts of Lower Tawstock, off the estate
< 04Molly > I wish I were not nervous..
< 08@Morgan > there is little need blossom
< 04Molly > I would want his approval... mama's also, though I believe she is quite taken with you
< 08@Morgan > that may last only long enough to discover I am not who I claimed
* Molly nods
< 04Molly > that is most definately a possibility
* Molly chews her lip
< 04Molly > yes, that could be awkward... especially when they realise how long I have known for
< 08@Morgan > I do not intend to tell them that much
* Molly smiles as they enter the village.
< 04Molly > I see... what do you intend to tell them, dear heart?
< 08@Morgan > I'm not entirely sure
* Molly nods. People smile at them in recognition. Molly speaks quietly
< 04Molly > I look forward o the days in which our affections for each other are known, so that I must not keep such a distance from you in public
* @Morgan nods
< 04Molly > I cannot help but wonder if anyone would guess...
< 08@Morgan > its hard to say... apparently its very easy to read the wrong things in me
< 04Molly > such as?
< 08@Morgan > that I am above the basic desires of men
< 08@Morgan > for example
* Molly blushes, eyes on the cobbled path of the main street, not looking at the bakery, leather shop, butchers... she speaks very quietly
< 04Molly > and you are not?
< 08@Morgan > no, I dont think so... nor, apparently, do others anymore
< 04Molly > I am not sure I understand...
< 08@Morgan > nor do I if I'm totally honest
* Molly smiles, looking around
< 04Molly > I wonder, will you miss it here, when you... when _we_ return to Eisen?
< 08@Morgan > most likely... though it is taking a turn for the worse lately
< 04Molly > how so?
< 08@Morgan > its no longer just a physically dangerous place to be...
< 08@Morgan > everyone seems hell bent on making life difficult for everyone else
* Molly chews her lower lip as they leave the main street
< 04Molly > I had noticed that... I can not help but wonder about the wider implications, such as any potential danger to Sudlachenburg...
< 08@Morgan > oh?
< 04Molly > Were one of the guests to take umbridge at your actions, or assumed actions, they may seek to injure you by striking an attack at the lands that will one day be yours
* Molly wraps her cloak around her a little tighter
< 08@Morgan > that would be a mistake... many things my brother is not... capable of defending the land is not one of them...
< 04Molly > And this summer, we shall be there for a little time... not that I would be any real help, in truth... As I've said before, a lover rather than a fighter
* Molly blushes
* @Morgan thinks for a moment before making a wry expression
< 08@Morgan > the journey back will be.... tough at best...
* Molly looks confused
< 04Molly > For travel related reasons, or because it will be hard to leave?
< 08@Morgan > mostly because its a nightmare getting Xantha onto a ship
< 04Molly > Xantha will be coming with us?
< 08@Morgan > well... at the very least when we finally leave
< 08@Morgan > I would not leave such an old companion behind
< 04Molly > No, he is wondrful, and in truth, were he not troubled so, I would insist that he came with us this time...
* Molly smiles, daydreaming
< 08@Morgan > I'm giving it some thought I must confess... I felt... a wrongness in being home without him
< 04Molly > If you do not feel it would harm him... I think I would like to buy a horse of my own soon... however, that must wait until after its is decided abou the Rose, so I shall know if I can afford to
* Molly smiles softly
< 08@Morgan > I have been giving thought to... the purchase of another ship
* Molly looks shocked
< 04Molly > instead of the Rose?
< 08@Morgan > well... perhaps as well as
< 04Molly > Goodness! Though... *she looks to the floor* I really would be unable to afford such a venture
< 08@Morgan > blossom, I am not asking for anything from you
* Molly nods, biting her lip
< 04Molly > What I have, I happily give to you...
< 08@Morgan > I, ummm... have thought of a name for it, though
* Molly smiles, intrigued
< 04Molly > Oh?
* @Morgan nods
< 08@Morgan > I was thinking something along the lines of...
* @Morgan glances round, speaking quietly
< 08@Morgan > Stern des Meeres
* Molly stops in her tracks, biting her lip. She keeps her arms very tightly at her sides, trying to keep herself under control. She looks up to him, her eyes shimmering with tears of joy. She matches his tone
< 04Molly > That is wonderful, dear heart
* Molly moves to his side, slipping her arm into his, knowing its the only contact she can risk publicly without question
< 04Molly > It is a great honour....
< 08@Morgan > I had hoped you would see it that way
* Molly smiles, squeezing his arm a little
< 04Molly > Can you have doubted it?
< 08@Morgan > I must admit I was unsure of it
< 04Molly > how so, dear heart?
< 08@Morgan > well, I wasn't sure if you'd think perhaps it was innapropriate
< 04Molly > of course not, I am not sure how it could be
< 08@Morgan > or if not inappropriate then... unwanted
< 04Molly > Morgan, I.... *her brow furrows* there would be little you could offer me that would be unwanted
* @Morgan nods, blushing
* Molly watches as they begin on the Tawstock road
< 04Molly > I have a feeling this discussion may be on the fringe of the one you wished to have after speaking to me father, abou the future, and the Rose...
< 08@Morgan > more... more that I wished to have it after telling you how I feel
* Molly grins broadly, still amazed and thrilled by it
< 04Molly > I believe we might as well wait until this chore is completed...
< 08@Morgan > quite so
* Molly sighs heavily
< 04Molly > I shall be very glad to continue the other things I hoped to do today
< 08@Morgan > oh?
* Molly carefully avoids the potholes in the rough road. now a mile from the village, Sunnymeade can be seen in the far distance
< 04Molly > This meeting... it will be awkward... I do not relish the potential of being told I am making a bad choice
< 08@Morgan > I do not relish the possible consequences of such a statement
< 04Molly > which are?
< 08@Morgan > undesirable...
* Molly looks at him tenderly
< 04Molly > I am unsure as to where your concern lies.. *she looks around to make sure they are not overheard*... my love
< 08@Morgan > with any luck we will not need to find out
* Molly squeezes his arm slightly
< 04Molly > If it is what I guess it to be, you need have no fear
< 08@Morgan > we shall have to see
* Molly smiles
< 04Molly > If it ends in me being disowned, it matters not, providing it does not change your wish to have me as a wife
< 08@Morgan > nothing could make that happen
< 04Molly > I am very glad to hear that
* Molly squeezes his arm as they approach the bottom gate to the farm
* @Morgan takes a deep breath
* Molly looks to him
< 04Molly > Is something the matter?
< 08@Morgan > looks or otherwise, I _am_ nervous
* Molly looks around, and seeing no-one raises his hand to her lips, kissing it softly
< 04Molly > it will all be well
< 08@Morgan > I hope so
* Molly smiles softly, walking up the track slowly, not speaking, until they get a few steps from the door of the farmhouse, when she turns to him. Molly squeezes his hand, clearly very nervous. Her voice is low, serious
< 04Molly > This is it, I am afraid. Once this is done, it becomes official that... *she blushes* that we are bethrothed. If you wish to change your mind, now is the time for it..
< 08@Morgan > dont be absurd
* Molly nods. She knocks on the door softly, and Hannah the housekeeper lets them in, showing them in to the hall urgently.
< 04Molly > HANNAH: I'm sorry, Miss Forrester, but I must return immediately to the dairy shed, one of the cows is calving.
* Molly nods
< 04Molly > please, go, it is too important to not be attended to by your capable hands. *Hannah smiles and departs.*
< 04Molly > Such things always take precedance here...
< 08@Morgan > as they should... the animals cant take care of themselves
< 04Molly > I should imagine that there are people on your father's estate hired for such?
* @Morgan nods
* Molly smiles
* @Morgan fishes around in his pocket for a moment, before glancing into it and relaxing
< 04Molly > I am quite skilled at such things, though I doubt I would do the family reputation any good to demonstrate such
* Molly looks puzzled.
< 04Molly > Are you missing something, dear heart?
< 08@Morgan > no, I'm not
* Molly smiles
< 04Molly > Shall we proceed?
< 08@Morgan > lets
* Molly heads towards the parlour she always teaches her mother in. The door is shut tight, and a loud argument can be heard, though the words can not be made out.
< 04Molly > Molly freezes in her step, her eyes fearful, and she looks much younger.
< 04Molly > Oh my... they used to argue like this when I was a small child. I remember I used to lie awake in my room, hearing them argue through the wall of their chamber, my heart pounding, and trembling head to toe. I would pull the blanket around me tightly, up to my ears, in the hopes of blocking it out.....
* @Morgan listens for a moment, closing in on the door
* Molly puts her hand on his back softly, seeking his comfort
* @Morgan speaks very quietly
< 08@Morgan > I suspect... this is going to go very badly
* Molly wraps her arms around him, drawing strength from being near him. She whispers
< 04Molly > They would shout at each other so for an hour or more... then something heavy would get thrown, or some china or glass smashed, and suddenly, it would become deathly quiet, and I would hear nothing more. I was certain each time that he had killed her, but too afraid to look. When I told me brothers, they just laughed. The next morning, all would be well, and they would be smiling and happy with each other, but it never took away that fear.
< 04Molly > away that fear.
* @Morgan nods
* Molly looks at him nervously. The argument seems to reach a cresendo, and the noise of something very heavy and glass being thrown to the floor, smashing in to a million pieces is clear. Molly jumps, fearful, and her eyes fill with tears.
* @Morgan pushes the door open suddenly, walking into the room
* @Morgan speaks in an even tone, not loud but easily heard
< 08@Morgan > that will be quite enough of that I think
< 04Molly > In the middle of the room is a pile of broken glass, what was once a vase. The daffodils that were contained in it are thrown haphazardly on the couch. Marthas cheeks are scarlet red, and her hair is toussled, pulled loose in many places. The front of her dress is uneven, and to the careful eye, there are five small, fingertip sized damp spots on the fabric covering her left breast. These little signs are unnoticed by Molly, whose own assumption clouds her perception.((mtf))
< 04Molly > assumption clouds her perception.((mtf))
< 04Molly > She also does not notice David run his fingers through his own dishevelled hair, straighten his neck tie and wipe his mouth subtly with the back of his hand to remove a small ammount of red lipstick upon it. His cheeks are also red, breathing hard. Molly looks at them innocently, immune to the recollections of the previous evening that would have come now, were she not distracted.
< 04Molly > Sir, Mama, is all well?
* Molly 's voice is almost childlike, soft, nervous. Her father looks at her awkwardly, and then at Martha.
< 04Molly > DAVID: Yes Moll, all is well, do not trouble yourself. You were not expected this morning. Mast Hockridge, lease, forgive the disruption and the poor welcome we have given you.
< 04Molly > *both david and martha look a little guilty and ashamed of themselves*
< 08@Morgan > perhaps it would be... advisable to have someone fetch some tea and clean up this mess while you straighten yourselves out...
< 04Molly > DAVID: I am pleased you both came. I am told you have a well-bred horse, and have a filly I believe has potential that I would like you o cast an experience eye upon. If you accompany me to the stables, one of the maids can deal with the broken glass *he visibly colours*
* @Morgan raises an eyebrow
< 04Molly > MARTHA: David, please, a few more weeks, it is all I ask. Theus knows I have made little demand of you these past few years, but I ask this, with all my heart *there is something diffeerent in her, a return of strength, passion, fierceness*
< 04Molly > DAVID: I am still not sure it is the right option *he watches her closely, and there is an air of admiration in his eyes, also very different than previously. She stares at him, and for a moment, the battle of wills is visible. Suddenly, he looks away* Four weeks.
* @Morgan looks mildly confused, his impatience showing
* Molly looks completely confused, eyes wide as she looks to Morgan
< 04Molly > DAVID: Will you come and provide me your wisdom, Master Hockridge, and leave these beautiful ladies to their lesson?
* @Morgan looks to Molly
< 08@Morgan > will you excuse me?
* Molly inadvertantly drops her bag, completely shocked by his compliment and statement
< 04Molly > Uhhh....ummm... yes, of course *she curtsies to him, overwhelmed*
* @Morgan nods, shifting his shoulders under his coat
< 04Molly > *David leads the way out of the parlour, shouting to the maid* Jane, there is broken glass in the parlour that must be dealt with immediately, please.
* Molly and matha watch them go, a look of surprise passing between them
< 04Molly > They go out through the front door, and round the building. Passing by the window of the parlour, Molly and Martha are sat close, holding hands. Mollys cheeks are red, and she looks shocked by whatever Martha is telling her, demolishing, no doubt, her childhood fears and perceptions. ((mtf))
< 04Molly > David pays no attention, and so misses his wife saying 'Tis the way of things, between two passionate people, Moll, perhaps one day you'll know it yourself, for you have inherited passion from both sides' Molly simply replies 'May be, mama, may be...'. ((mtf))
< 04Molly > DAVID: How are things upon the Torrington Estate, Master Hockridge? *david slips a cigar tin from his pocket, offering one to Morgan*
* @Morgan shakes his head
< 08@Morgan > things are as ever... that place gains far more intrigue than it deserves
< 04Molly > *david shrugs, taking out a cigar and lighting it from a small tinder box. He exhales a cloud of white, aromatic smoke, walking up the incline towards the barn
< 04Molly > I have heard gossip about it often, particularly about that scoundrel Colonel...
< 08@Morgan > I couldn't possibly comment
< 04Molly > *david pushes open the door of the stable, far less grand than catherines, holding it open for Morgan*
< 04Molly > Probably best. A wise man does not gossip about eiher friend or enemy...
< 08@Morgan > it is... not my place to discuss those on the estate
< 04Molly > Quite right, quite right... Now, this filly... *he leads Morgan in to the back part of the barn, where there is a beautiful white horse, wih very intelligent eyes, and a proud, strong bearing*
< 04Molly > She was named Aurora, for being born at dawn you see... *he opens the half door to the stall, and she casually walks out in to the paddock
< 04Molly > *david follows her out* Look her over as you wish, Mastr Hockridge, take as long as is needed. *he smokes his cigar, leaning against a fence*
* @Morgan walks out into the paddock and whistles at the horse
< 04Molly > *she looks at him a moment before going to his side*
< 04Molly > *david watches with interest*
* @Morgan puts a hand on the centre of the horses face, speaking quietly, rhythmically
< 04Molly > *she watches him, then moves away a moment, almost playfully, before coming back*
* @Morgan chuckles slightly
< 08@Morgan > you've got a flighty one here Mr Forrester
< 04Molly > *she nuzzles his hand a little. David comes over*
< 04Molly > I hope to tame her, but she's a free spirit right enough... there's only one other horse thats ever eluded my methods as much as she...
< 08@Morgan > oh?
< 04Molly > Aye, this rather impressive stallion, black as the depths of a winter night... could never tame him myself.
* @Morgan pushes her head to one side and runs his hand across her flanks
< 04Molly > *aurora moves away a little with a gentle snorting noise*
< 08@Morgan > quit that madam
* @Morgan looks at the horse intently for a moment before tapping its rump lightly
< 08@Morgan > go, play
< 04Molly > *she comes back, nuzzling him once more, refusing to leav his side. David smiles*
< 04Molly > I might have to enlist the help of a certain beautiful young lass who trained Santana where I, and my sons failed...
< 08@Morgan > I think... how much would you say she is worth?
< 04Molly > Now, or trained?
< 08@Morgan > either
< 08@Morgan > the lower, in fact
< 04Molly > Now, with no guarantee should could be trained, 45-50 guilders
* @Morgan nods
< 08@Morgan > there is something you and I must discuss, Mr Forrester
< 04Molly > I was thinking something similar, if you'll indulge me?
< 08@Morgan > and that would be?
< 04Molly > *aurora moves away, jumping hurdles set up or exrcise on her own, no prompting*
< 04Molly > *david watches her* You have met my wife before, hav you not?
< 08@Morgan > I have
< 04Molly > And what did you think of her?
* @Morgan looks wary
< 08@Morgan > I think she's a remarkable woman
< 04Molly > *david nods, eyes still on the horse* She always was... she was the first young woman I first noticed, who instantly won my heart, so vivacious, so passionate, so determined, like myself. She had a scheme, a method of making it so that I would marry her. I saw through it immediately, of course, but part of me was so intrigued by her, I wanted to see what see would do, how far she would fight... And so I let her think she had won, all along decided months previously that I would have her, _had_ to have her and no other.
< 04Molly > And so I let her think she had won, all along decided months previously that I would have her, _had_ to have her and no other.
< 04Molly > *david looks at morgan a moment, and that confidence, arrogance, bravado is less visible than normal. he seems to be a man on the verge of confession*
* @Morgan nods, eyes on the horse
< 04Molly > It is difficult for a proud man to admit he has err'd...
< 08@Morgan > no doubt
< 04Molly > But I have treated her badly, let my own strong personality dominate hers. Where the soft gentleness of motherhood made her mellow, the rigid protectiveness and fear brought by fatherhood has made me harder.
* @Morgan nods
< 04Molly > Can you see it also, the change in her, I wonder?
< 08@Morgan > I have not seen her demeanour in your presence before, so my opinion would be unfounded in fact
< 04Molly > Will you take my assurance then, as a gentleman, that she is changed? Is back to that young woman I admired so intensely?
< 08@Morgan > I will
< 04Molly > *david sighs, admiring the horse* these last few weeks, I have had my Martha back, my beautiful, high-spirited, admirable fighter, and this is down to the freedom and wisdom that has come from her reading, her rebelling against me, and casting off the shadow I have thrown upon her.
< 08@Morgan > I see
< 04Molly > *david speaks, possibly more to himself than to Morgan directly*
< 04Molly > I must make amends, and swallow my pride, and tell Martha how greatly I prefer the change in her, and how wrong I have been. I must also apologise to little Moll, for making her lie about why she was coming here, and thank her for the beautiful gift has has given me now. But how to do such?((mtf))
< 04Molly > Especially when Martha and I argue to intensely over Moll's future.I want her to come home. She belongs here, to be protected by me. Theus knows I've failed in that too many times, through ignorance, arrogance and possibly even stupidity...
< 04Molly > Martha insists I must give it a little while longer, and if nothing changes, in four weeks, she can return
< 04Molly > *david looks very puzzled*
* @Morgan smiles faintly and whistles to the horse
< 08@Morgan > in terms of an apology, there is only one way a man can do so
< 04Molly > *Aurora immediately comes to him* What would you advise?
< 08@Morgan > the only way to do it is with humility and courage. As you say, it takes a lot to admit you are wrong, and they will know that and appreciate it all the more
< 04Molly > *David takes another drag on the cigar* I hope you are right. They are both too precious to lose. It is hard, having a daughter. Sons are easier, though you want them safe, they are strong, and capable. But a daughter *he sighs* and also the last child you'll have *he shakes his head* _That_ is a different matter. Watching her grow, my anxiety and fierce desire to keep her from trouble only grew with her.(mtf)
< 04Molly > The more beautiful she became, the worse it was. I knew the risks, knew how her gentleness and naiveity would appeal to men, how easily she would be taken advantage of. It is like watching your heart walk around outside your body... he smiles a little You may well understand this better one day in the future, Theus willing.
* @Morgan 's face darkens momentarily
< 08@Morgan > you say her name is Arurora?
< 04Molly > Yes, it is
* @Morgan murmers to the horse, saying her name a few times
< 08@Morgan > excuse me a moment Mr. Forrester
< 04Molly > *she nuzzles him*
< 04Molly > *David nods, clearly troubled in his own mind*
* @Morgan whistles quietly with his hand on the mare's shoulder, and begins walking, picking up speed until he is at a slow run
< 04Molly > *she follows him completley*
* @Morgan turns slightly right before vaulting onto the horses back, leaning forward and murmering in her ear
< 04Molly > *she keeps up the speed, almost unsurprised by his actions*
* @Morgan tries to guide her round with his knees back towards mr forrester
< 04Molly > *david tries to watch, but finds his mind on Molly, and the untameable Santana*
< 04Molly > *sshe lets him guide her*
* @Morgan rolls off her back as they get near him, patting her rump as he hits the floor
< 04Molly > *she follows him, nuzzling his shoulder*
< 08@Morgan > as I was saying... there is something we must discuss
< 04Molly > *David watches, though doesnt see. He speaks quietly to himself* only 9, so proud, so perfect, so naive... Sorry, did you say something, Master Hockridge?
< 08@Morgan > I did... and it would be best were you to give it your full attention
< 04Molly > Of course.
< 04Molly > *he watches Morgan intently, aurora still standing near by*
< 08@Morgan > I understand you have little love for those of a foreign cast
< 04Molly > *David wrinkles his nose* Through experience, yes.
< 08@Morgan > then what I have to tell you will no doubt displease you... there is a man wishes for Molly's hand in marriage... he is not of Avalon birth
< 04Molly > *Davids eyes darken consideerably* That rotten, dirty scoundrel of a Colonel?! Oh no, most definately not!
< 08@Morgan > no, it is not the colonel
< 08@Morgan > though, in truth, he is of Eisen birth
< 04Molly > *David nods* That is something at least... he could be vestennavmanjaar, but not that wretch... he is lucky I havent hung him from my oak tre... Eisen?! Theus save us!
* @Morgan glances at the horse
< 08@Morgan > Eisen men truly have no soul to speak of... nothing but scoundrels and wretches...
< 04Molly > *she comes to him and nudges him a little. If she were human, it would seem like encouragment to continue*
* @Morgan fishes in a pocket and produces a small mint sweet. he passes it to the horse
< 04Molly > Well, I am not in the souls business, of course, but I know what happens when Eisen men have touched my crops, and robbed my house, and worse still, nearly cost me the life of my daughter, and taken away any further chance of my wofe bearing more children *he gets progressively more angry*
< 08@Morgan > quite so... but then, there is little to recommend any other nation.... the montaigne do little but drink and wench... the vestennavmanjaar raid and pillage... the castillians... nothing but men taking far too much pride in their piety...
< 04Molly > I'm not keen on them either, but they never commited offenses against my family as this wild band of eisen bastards did *his face is red, cigar forgotten*
< 08@Morgan > regardless, we must admit that all nations have their drawbacks... I mean, I dont know baout you, but I would not trust a montaigne man to stay sober for long enough to complete a job, based of course on my experience with a few montaigne privateers
< 04Molly > Aye, that is true enough...
< 08@Morgan > and in that case, such udgement is obviously quite justified... for example, I would not employ a castillian peasant in the fields because, no doubt, he would spend all day telling eveyrone quite how pious he was... that is obviousl the conclusion we can draw from the reputation given by the castillian gentry...
< 04Molly > well, now you see, there is a difference between gentlemen and common men... it would be foolhardly to lump them all togther
< 04Molly > *david lights another cigar*
< 04Molly > *aurora nudges Morgan as before*
* @Morgan pats the mare
< 08@Morgan > so... for example... an Eisen gentleman would not be so marred by your opinion of those who came here?
< 04Molly > *david looks troubled* well.... good breeding, and a good education... that would have prevented the robbery, and the crop failure... and possibly would hav given them the intelligence to call the docor or midwife, rather than nearly kill them boh by intervening in molly's delivery...
< 08@Morgan > indeed... so, it can be assumed then, by your own reasoning, that an Eisen man of gentry standing should not be so judged by the misdeeds of common men?
< 04Molly > Well... if he proved himself trustworthy, if he was willing to allow my preconceptions, I might be inclined to give him a chance... Does Molly know of his interest?
< 08@Morgan > She does
< 04Molly > *he sighs* and what says she? She is probably closer to you now than she is to me...
< 08@Morgan > well... I am certain she wishes to marry him
< 08@Morgan > but his sense of what is right and wrong dictates that he gains your blessing to do so
< 04Molly > And, in your opinion, as a gentleman and a friend to my little Moll, is he worthy of her?
< 04Molly > *David smokes the cigar*
< 08@Morgan > I think so... obviously we would not wish her to marry below her worth...
< 04Molly > Though you may not believe it, to me, she will always marry below her worth... Even Lord Piram's son would be below her in my mind...
* @Morgan snorts
< 08@Morgan > do you know, at all, the... titles of Eisen?
< 04Molly > No, not at all
* @Morgan pulls out a small book from his coat pocket and holds it open
< 08@Morgan > this contains a list of titles and their avalonian equivalents...
< 04Molly > *David looks at it* Right, yes, I see
* @Morgan 's eyes narrow
< 08@Morgan > I see... it is quite involuted and took me some time myself to understand it, so perhaps I could give you the abridged version?
< 04Molly > Please, I would welcome it
< 04Molly > *aurora nudges the book with her nose*
* @Morgan nods and reads from the book, explaining the various titles and ranks and their equivalents in Avalon. He pauses occasionally to stroke the mare
< 04Molly > *david nods thoughout, asking minor quesions here and there*
< 08@Morgan > so... I've listed everything from one step above a standard serf right through to the... princes of Eisen...
< 04Molly > Yes.
< 08@Morgan > so... Molyl's previous fiance was... middle class... and Lord Jaeger was gentry... lower, I believe... so... *he consults the book again*
< 08@Morgan > Veisgraf...
< 04Molly > would outrank both...
< 08@Morgan > quite so... something akin to Bran Pirams rank, actually
< 04Molly > *david nods* a very proud place for a farmers daughter...
< 08@Morgan > that is his rank
< 04Molly > And is he trustable? Will he take care of her, make her happy?
< 08@Morgan > which would of course make Molly a Veisgraffen...
< 08@Morgan > he will give every breath to make it so
< 04Molly > *david looks out over the fields, voice becoming slight hoarse* and does she love him and wish to marry him?
< 08@Morgan > I believe so
< 04Molly > *he speaks quietly* After all I have put her through, all the doubts and distrust, all the rejection and misery she must have felt, I owe her this chance at happiness, more than I've ever owed anything to another
< 08@Morgan > if it will ease your mind any... though he is by birth Eisen, his mother was of the gentry of Avalon
< 04Molly > Aye, a little. Though truthfully, if she loves him, and he can promise that he will not mistreat her as I have, will honour and respect her, and admirre her every day of her life... *his eyes darken* will not control her with his own will until she is no longerrecogniseable as the beautiful, passionate, strong woman she now is...
< 08@Morgan > then we should discuss the dowry
< 04Molly > You think then that he can make such a promise, that you can vouch on your own honour for him?
* @Morgan smiles faintly
< 08@Morgan > perhaps this is a conversation that your wife should hear
< 04Molly > *david nods* quite likely there... she is a smart woman, and she obviously has her reason for demanding that Molly stays longer on the estate... this might well scupper her plans for her daughter
< 08@Morgan > possibly
* @Morgan whistles at the horse, pointing to the stable
< 04Molly > *aurora comes to him, nuzzling him*
< 08@Morgan > in the stable little one
< 04Molly > *she nuzzles him once more, then goes to the stable. she turns back once to look at him forlornly before going in completely*
< 04Molly > *David looks to Morgan* We shall go and discuss this with Martha...
< 08@Morgan > indeed
< 04Molly > *david locks the stable, before leading the way back down to the house. Molly and Martha ar still sat in the parlour, Martha sewing, and Molly fiddling with a hair clip nervously, neither speaking
< 04Molly > *they go back in to the house, stopping a moment before knocking ot the parlour door*
< 04Molly > *Jane opens the door, letting them in to the parlour where there is a strange awkward atmosphere. Sh shuts the door behind her. Molly and Martha both ise and curtsey, and molly pours the tea
* @Morgan walks over to a chair, but stays standing
< 04Molly > MARTHA: I honestly do not know what is wrong with Moll today, she has barely spoken a word! What thought you of Aurora, Master Hockridge? *herr demeanour is far brighter, more spirited than last time he came, and she looks much younger, and more like Molly*
< 08@Morgan > I think she's flighty and going to be near impossible to train
* Molly pours the tea, handing out the cups, first to Morgan. she briefly meets his eyes shyly, before moving on to her father
< 04Molly > MARTHA: I remembe there was once a little girl who trained a far worse horse than Aurora...
< 08@Morgan > I dont believe it is training the horse needs... but that is a conversation for another time
* @Morgan looks to David
< 04Molly >  11• 12Molly 11•  Mama, please... *she blushes hard, and returns to her seat with her own cup*
< 08@Morgan > perhaps you would wish to explain our conversation so far?
< 04Molly > DAVID: Martha, it appears our little Moll might well be in the position to marry... *he leans back in hi chair, a slight smile as he waits for his wife's reaction, once more revelling in her passionat nature*
< 04Molly > MARTHA: Well indeed , my girl! That explains your silence! I would know more about this... *she looks at Molly, who sips he tea, eyes studiously on the floor, and decides she'll have more joy from her husband, who she smiles at sweetly*
< 04Molly > DAVID: Master Hockridge knows far more of the situation, and is far better placed to tell you the details...
< 04Molly > *Martha looks to Morgan, eyes excited* Well, Master Hockridge, you would not keep a doting mother in suspense?!
< 08@Morgan > there are some... issues...
< 04Molly > *Martha nods* Please, continue...
< 08@Morgan > the man in question is a... *he ponders over the right term* lord of eisen
< 04Molly > *Martha looks at David, and her hand inadvertantly goes to her stomach. Her voice is low, serious* Have you agreed to this match?
< 04Molly > DAVID: I was not willing to make a full decision without your consent, given that the gentleman is Eisen.
< 04Molly > MARTHA: I would know more of this... man. His being Eisen is not favourable... not at all
< 08@Morgan > no... I'm fairly sure I can understand that... however, he is a good man with nothing but good intentions.
* Molly looks up at her mother briefly before dropping her eyes again
< 04Molly > MARTHA: By Theus, it better not be that Colonel or one of his detestable men!
< 08@Morgan > I did say good intentions, did I not? I'm fairly sure those men have never had a good intention in their lives
< 04Molly > MARTHA: Sometimes the best of intentions are not enough to save innocent lives, nay the best of intentions can often put them at more risk!
< 08@Morgan > true enough
< 08@Morgan > I myself know that quite well
< 04Molly >  11• 12Molly 11•  Mama! What does it matter if he's Eisen, or Vodacce, or Montaigne!! I love him... *tears come to her eyes, stung by their prejudice, and the inapproriate comment of her mothers*
< 04Molly > MARTHA: And does he love her? Is he serious and honest in his attentions, and not trying to trick her to his bed? *she looks at Morgan*
* Molly is starting to look angry
< 08@Morgan > a proposal of marriage in order to bed her? you think perhaps it is some trick?
< 08@Morgan > to get what he wants and then retract his proposal?
< 04Molly > MARTHA: It is possible...
* @Morgan nods
< 08@Morgan > and if you were to know that he has declared that they should wait until after they are married?
* Molly rubs her forehead wearily, and David watches closely all the occupants, particularly Molly
< 04Molly > DAVID: is that a promise you think this gentleman will keep?
< 08@Morgan > I have no doubt in it
* Molly blushes, and sips her tea, David nods. Martha looks at David
< 04Molly > MARTHA: you would truly consent to give her to someone Eisen? After everyhing that... *she trails off*
< 08@Morgan > and let us not forget that this man, though born in Eisen, is of part Avalon descent...
< 04Molly > MARTHA: And does he bear Eisen or Avalon honour?
< 08@Morgan > both. He is fiercely proud of his heritage... though, I'm told, he is more given to his Avalonian side
< 04Molly > MARTHA: Well, that is a blessing... does he love her, and intend to treat her well?
< 08@Morgan > completely
* Molly fidgets, blushing hard
< 04Molly > MARTHA: *looking at Morgan intently* And you have no objection to her marying this man at all?!
< 08@Morgan > quite the opposite
< 04Molly > MARTHA: *she shakes her head, clearly disapointed* Oh, I thought...
< 04Molly > DAVID: Ahhhh now it becomes clear, why you wanted her to stay longer! *he laughs*
< 08@Morgan > perhaps a little further explanation...
< 04Molly > *Martha's cold look silences her husband immediately*
< 08@Morgan > Mrs Forrester, do you trust me?
< 04Molly > *all three watch him*
< 04Molly > MARTHA: Yes, you have been very good to Molly, and you did seem to care for her a great deal
< 08@Morgan > please, Mrs Forrester... lets postpone the berating...
< 08@Morgan > you believe I have always acted in the best way I could to defend the estate? That I have Molly's best interests in mind?
< 04Molly > MARTHA: *pouting a little* Yes
* @Morgan nods
* @Morgan looks at the cup in his hand for a moment before placing it on the side
< 08@Morgan > I mentioned that this man, though Eisen, has Avalonian heritage... on his mothers side
* Molly looks to him, a reassuring smile
< 04Molly > *both Martha and David nod*
< 08@Morgan > his mother is of... minor nobillity I suppose... she is easily traced should you wish for confirmation
< 04Molly > DAVID: Master Hockridge, if you vouch for him, I am certain we shall not need to go to such lengths
< 08@Morgan > regardless, you need to know that...
< 04Molly > *they both nod* MARTHA: And his Eisen famil?
< 08@Morgan > oh so easily traced... they are... fairly highly placed... as I told your husband, he is the equivalent of Bran Piram
< 08@Morgan > standing wise at least
< 04Molly > MARTHA: *she looks very surprised, and looks at Molly* I knew you could not be so beautiful and gentle for nothing!
* Molly blushes, highly embarassed 'Mama...'
< 08@Morgan > is this situation more... agreeable Mrs Forrester?
< 04Molly > DAVID: Your moher is right Moll... that's very impressive for a farmers daughter. You will never suffer the lack of food from a failed crop, or cattle disease... there will always be food, shelter, parties... Eisen or not, you would be fool to pass overr this title of... what was it again, Mastr Hockridge?
< 08@Morgan > what was what?
< 04Molly > DAVID: The title little Moll would have
< 08@Morgan > Veisgrafen
< 08@Morgan > if your blessing is given, Molly would outrank all but... two maybe three people that frequent the Torrington estate
< 04Molly > MARTHA: Goodness! What is the equivelent Avalon rank?
< 08@Morgan > Bran Pirams rank...
< 08@Morgan > so... Viscount///
< 08@Morgan > or... Viscountess... Vis... you know, I've never looked that up
< 04Molly > MARTHA: *she looks to Molly* A viscountess! Imagine that Moll, how wondrful would that be! So safe, so cared for, always enough money and status. It doesnt matter than it's Eisen rank, it's still rank, and that protects you from a great deal of bad things!
* Molly stands up, eyes flashing darkly. She puts her cup down hard on the table. Her voice has an edge of danger to it, and to the trained eye, she is struggling to maintain her temper ((I'll give you chance to interrupt her, Morgan would def spot this))
* @Morgan looks at Molly, standing up
< 08@Morgan > sit down blossom... this is neither the time nor the place for emotional outbursts
* Molly sits immediately, biting her lip hard
< 04Molly > DAVID: *he looks at Morgan critically, he speaks very quietly* Blossom...
* Molly looks at her father briefly, but picks up her cup
< 04Molly > MARTHA: What more can you tell us to provide reassurance of this man?
< 08@Morgan > I can tell you his mothers name
< 08@Morgan > I can tell you he loves Molly with his entire being... that he will battle the world for her if needs be
< 04Molly > MARTHA: *though she's trying to be stern, she cant help but grin*
< 04Molly > DAVID: I knew a man once that felt so for a woman... and still does... *he looks at Martha a moment, and when she meets his eyes, hey both blush hard*
* Molly takes a deep breath, trying to maintain composure. She looks at her parents a moment, surprised
* Molly speaks softly
< 04Molly > Then you must understand that it does not matter... it does not matter that he is Eisen, or part Avalon, or noble, or rich, or will give me safety and security... I love him, completely, for himself. Were he poor, a commoner, fully Eisen, I would not love him any less. Each morning I wake, knowing I love him with the full length and breadth of my heart, and 'twould be impossible to love him more... and each night I lay myself down, surprised that he has made me love him even more, when I thought it impossible
< 04Molly > myself down, surprised that he has made me love him even more, when I thought it impossible
* Molly looks at them, avoiding looking at Morgan, feeling a little awkward
< 04Molly > This is why I must marry him, for I could not live without him now...
< 04Molly > *They are both shocked and stunned, and watch her, open mouthed. Martha looks to Morgan*
< 04Molly > MARTHA: And hearing her say such, you are not pained, or jealous? I had hoped that you were developing affections for her yourself!
< 08@Morgan > perhaps it is indeed time to know his mothers name...
* @Morgan squares his shoulders under his coat, fixing an expression of determination in place
< 04Molly > DAVID: Aye, go on, before all this female feeling ovrwhelms us!
< 08@Morgan > her name is Lady Verity Hockridge
< 04Molly > *They now both stare at him open mouthed*
< 04Molly > DAVID: By Theus!
< 08@Morgan > no, by my father...
< 04Molly > MARTHA: That is wonderful, wondrful news!
* Molly looks completely shocked at Marthas reaction, and suddenly goes very pale