< 08@Morgan > indeed, for truly do I corrupt the innocence of others < 04Molly > *she leans over, and whispers* You have not corrupted my innocence, dear one < 08@Morgan > no? * Molly smiles softly < 04Molly > Not yet at least * @Morgan blushes < 04Molly > I am sorry, I have caused you discomfort < 08@Morgan > only minorly blossom * Molly nods, continuing to walk towards town < 04Molly > What is Sudlachenburg like? Is it open plains, or more forest land? < 08@Morgan > its bracketed by forest on one side and a lake on the other < 04Molly > Is it easy to ride there? < 08@Morgan > fairly, providing you dont take the horses into the forest... they dont like it * Molly laughs softly < 04Molly > with Aurora, I thin it more likely that _she_ would take _me_ there... < 08@Morgan > possibly... I musdt admit Xantha has always had this unnerving habit of just ploughing on through it < 04Molly > I think that they will either love or hate each other < 08@Morgan > aye... in truth I'm not sure whioch * Molly smiles softly < 04Molly > What initially appears to be dislike can sometimes turn to something the complete opposite, in time... < 08@Morgan > so it would seem < 04Molly > Where shall we go first? < 08@Morgan > hmm? < 04Molly > In the town... where shall we go first? * Molly smiles a little < 08@Morgan > well... I suppose you'll wish to see the milliner alone? * Molly shakes her head < 04Molly > I shall buy the fabric from Mr Jameson... * @Morgan nods < 08@Morgan > I see < 04Molly > I have nothing that I cannot do without you by my side * @Morgan nods < 08@Morgan > as you wish < 04Molly > Have you anywhere you must go without me? * @Morgan thinks for a moment < 08@Morgan > possibly... but that can wait * Molly shakes her head with puzzlement < 04Molly > I see... a merchant for furniture then? < 08@Morgan > aye... probably best... though I must see the smithy about reshoeing Xantha and getting Aurora properly shoed < 04Molly > I would have thought my father would have done such... unless she was a litle young... < 08@Morgan > with respect to your father, she will have been shoed to be on the farm... not to walk long distances < 04Molly > Yes, that makes sense... I doubt he thought of giving her to you as my dowry... < 08@Morgan > probably not < 04Molly > I was quite surprised he did not have another prospective husband lined up... he would not have been happy with me being at Lady Catherine's with no employment < 08@Morgan > I suspect your mother had something to do with that < 04Molly > I'm not sure I understand < 08@Morgan > from the conversation I had with your father and... from what I heard your mother say, I think she was pushing him to allow you to remain in the house for another four weeks * Molly looks puzzled < 04Molly > Why four weeks? < 08@Morgan > I think thats how long she thought it'd take me to profess an interest in you * Molly 's brow furrows < 04Molly > I am not quite sure how I feel about that... < 08@Morgan > oh? * Molly sighs < 04Molly > I am confused as to why she had set her hopes on there being something between us < 08@Morgan > perhaps she could see through the masquerade... < 04Molly > Aye, perhaps... I wonder what would have happened had we not gone to them yet, and the four weeks had passed... * Molly watches as the edge of the town comes in to sight < 08@Morgan > your father would have demanded that you return to their house < 04Molly > I do not think I would have liked that overmuch < 08@Morgan > nor I < 04Molly > I think I would have run away... *she laughs* < 08@Morgan > I dont think anyone could blame you... that said, he is a much changed man as far as I can see < 04Molly > Tis not so much living with them that would have troubled me... < 08@Morgan > oh? * Molly walks a little closer as they start down the road between the gateway that marks the outskirts of Tawstock < 04Molly > I would very strongly miss living with you < 08@Morgan > as I would, you * Molly smiles playfully < 04Molly > Would you have ridden up to my window and rescued me in the night, my love? < 08@Morgan > undoubtedly * Molly looks at the merchants windows < 04Molly > Are there many places to shop in Sudlachenburg, or must you travel to Fischler? < 08@Morgan > mostly you need to travel to Fischler itself... though there are a few places in Sudlachenburg to shop, it is mostly for essential items < 04Molly > I am certain I could forego my shopping obsession... < 08@Morgan > that is good to hear < 04Molly > Why, dear heart? < 08@Morgan > well... it would make life easier in future, don't you think? < 04Molly > For me not to travel as much? * @Morgan looks amused < 08@Morgan > more for the lack of spending opportunity < 04Molly > Am I an expensive luxury to you, dear heart? * Molly grins < 08@Morgan > I should say so < 04Molly > Depending upon what is done regarding the Rose, I may be no financial burden upon you at all... < 08@Morgan > aye... the rose * Molly looks to him, before looking back to the windows < 04Molly > Part of the discussion you wished to have? < 08@Morgan > perhaps... < 04Molly > maybe at home... oooh! * Molly spots a furniture merchant < 04Molly > This one? < 08@Morgan > if you wish * Molly nods. The window is nicely laid out, and molly looks in at the armchairs < 04Molly > I should imagine this might be the right sort of place < 08@Morgan > it certainly looks that way * Molly looks to him, oblivious to the bustle of carts, horses, street vendors, children and shoppers, eyes focused intently upon his. < 04Molly > You seem out of sorts... < 08@Morgan > no, blossom I'm fine * Molly nods < 04Molly > I am glad to hear it, I would hate for the meeting with my parents to have ruined your day * @Morgan smiles < 08@Morgan > no blossom... I'm still a little confused at how it went, but my day is far from ruined < 04Molly > What confuses you? < 08@Morgan > how I managed to convince your father to such a degree as to get him to agree to come to Eisen < 04Molly > Because you're a very charming man... < 08@Morgan > oh I dont know about that... I think perhaps I caught him at the right time * Molly smiles at him fondly < 04Molly > If that is your preference... * @Morgan nods < 08@Morgan > what about that one? * Molly looks < 04Molly > which, dear heart? < 08@Morgan > the... padded arms, high backed... < 04Molly > the green one? < 08@Morgan > aye * Molly smiles < 04Molly > I think it looks nice, shall we go in? * @Morgan opens the door, waiting for Molly to enter * Molly goes in, smiling at him < 04Molly > *The shop is not very large, but definately tailored to parlour furniture. the green couch in the window is one of five, but Molly immediate goes to it < 04Molly > * the MERCHANT comes out of the backroom, wiping sawdust from his trousers. He looks to Morgan. < 04Molly > MERCHANT: Good morning, young man * @Morgan inclines his head to the merchant < 08@Morgan > Good morning < 04Molly > MERCHANT: Pleasant day, is it not? < 08@Morgan > quite so, sir < 04Molly > * the MERCHANT is a smart looking man in his mid-thirties, new to the area* < 04Molly > MERCHANT: Are you looking for something specific? * Molly walks around the couch with a smile < 08@Morgan > a couch suitable for a living room < 04Molly > MERCHANT: *he nods* I have five in the shop, and several in progress in the workshop. If you have any strict requirements, I can make one to order? < 08@Morgan > for a suitable fee, no doubt? < 04Molly > MERCHANT: *looks at Morgan, and his dress* I am happy to do such on a lay-away, if needed... * @Morgan grins at the merchant * Molly comes over to them < 04Molly > Excuse me sir, might I try the green couch? * @Morgan watches the merchant carefully < 04Molly > MERCHANT: Of course, miss, take your time... * Molly smiles, and goes back to the couch, sitting down < 04Molly > MERCHANT: *turns his attention back to Morgan* Pretty girl you have there, young man... *he looks distracted, a sadness around the eyes* reminds me very much of a girl I once knew... * @Morgan nods slowly < 08@Morgan > she is indeed a wonderful girl < 04Molly > MERCHANT: *talks, almost more to himself than Morgan* drowned, poor girl, and I never told her.... *he suddenly looks to Morgan and coughs* ahem, I'm sorry young man, did you say something? < 08@Morgan > no, I did not. * Molly looks over her shoulder and smiles at Morgan. < 04Molly > MERCHANT: Excuse me just a moment... *he goes back in to the workshop* < 04Molly > Would you like to try this, dear heart? * @Morgan goes and sits on the couch * Molly moves up slightly closer < 04Molly > It is rather big enough... < 08@Morgan > quite so < 04Molly > What thinks you? * Molly fidgets a little, and leans back, testing it < 08@Morgan > perhaps we should try the cream one? < 08@Morgan > it looks a little more... padded * Molly stands, gathering her skirt < 04Molly > of course * Molly goes over to the cream one, and sits down < 04Molly > Oooooh this one is very nice! * @Morgan goes to the cream couch and sits down * Molly looks to him, and catches sight of the merchant watching her from the doorway. His expression is a mix of pain and envy. She looks at Morgan, puzzled < 08@Morgan > you're right, this one is very good < 04Molly > I..ummm.... this one would look well at home... * Molly stands up, looking slightly nervous. She avoids meeting the merchants gaze. < 04Molly > We might have this one, if it pleases you, dear heart? * @Morgan nods, standing and heading towards the merchant * Molly follows, a few paces behind him < 08@Morgan > I think we'll be having that one. When can you have it delivered? < 04Molly > MERCHANT: *he looks up at Morgan* Tomorrow, if that is suitable... *his gaze wanders to Molly, before he catches himself, looking back to Morgan* < 08@Morgan > that will be fine < 04Molly > MERCHANT: That will be forty guilders... * @Morgan nods < 08@Morgan > I take it you are new to tawstock? * @Morgan starts counting out forty guilders < 04Molly > MERCHANT: Yes, I come from the east coast, I left af- a few weeks ago... < 08@Morgan > you are familiar with the Torrington estate? * Molly looks to him then, curious. He looks back at her, and whatever she sees in that look causes her to drop her eyes < 04Molly > MERCHANT: By reputation, yes * @Morgan frowns briefly < 08@Morgan > have it delivered there < 04Molly > MERCHANT: Of course *he manages to drag his eyes from her to look at Morgan* it will arrive by midday * @Morgan nods briefly < 08@Morgan > it is for the master at arms' cottage * Molly moves a little closer to Morgan's side < 04Molly > MERCHANT: I shall ensure it is delivered correctly < 08@Morgan > good < 04Molly > MERCHANT: *he writes a receipt, though distracted. He looks at Molly, and tears the sheet from the ledger. He checks it over, and where the delivery day should be, he has written 'Lucinda'. He looks down at it in frustration. < 04Molly > MERCHANT: Theus damnit! I must start afresh. * Molly looks up then at what he has written, before it is balled up and thrown in to the open fire. He begins to write again, and Molly looks to Morgan < 04Molly > I shall stay home rather than continue lessons tomorrow... < 08@Morgan > oh? < 04Molly > MERCHANT: *looks up, face pale* You... you teach, miss? * Molly smiles at Morgan, then at the Merchant < 04Molly > Yes, I teach reading and writing hereabouts < 04Molly > MERCHANT: *nods, looking back to the receipt, working hard to keep his mind from his lost love, and the girl who resembles her in occupation as well as looks* A noble profession... < 04Molly > Thank you... < 04Molly > MERCHANT:*he looks up at Morgan, the strain in his eyes clear. He hands Morgan the receipt* < 08@Morgan > thank you *he takes it* * Molly takes Morgan's hand briefly < 04Molly > I feel a little too warm, I shall wait outside < 08@Morgan > as you wish < 04Molly > MERCHANT: *he watches her go, and with the ringing of the bell for the door, looks back to the counter, gathering the coins with a heavy sigh. His voice conveys his sorrow, disinterest in his occupation** Yes, it is all there... < 08@Morgan > of course < 04Molly > MERCHANT: *he puts the coins into a tin* You are a very lucky man, if you do not mind my saying so... < 08@Morgan > I know... believe me I know < 04Molly > MERCHANT: *he puts his palms flat on the counter, leaning his weight on them* such women are hard to find.. and harder to keep by your side... < 08@Morgan > oh? < 04Molly > MERCHANT: *he sighs again, shoulders dropping, and the facade of competant shopkeeper drops, revealing a broken man beneath* I knew a girl, before I left, a redheaded beauty like your young miss... even-tempered, gentle... and through my foolishness, knowing she was too good for me, I never spoke my affections... * @Morgan nods, sympathetic < 04Molly > MERCHANT: *he looks up* The name on the paper... Lucinda.... oh how strongly I regret not telling her, it could have stopped her, could have prevented her death... < 08@Morgan > howso? < 04Molly > MERCHANT: I had asked her to meet me that day, to tell her how I felt. However, I lost my nerve, and left early. She decided to stay at the lake, and got caught up below the surface, and- *his voice breaks, and he trails off, shaking his head* Had I told her, I would have remained there, for good or bad * @Morgan nods < 08@Morgan > I can understand how you feel < 04Molly > MERCHANT: I very much doubt that young man, but I appreciate the words nonetheless... Hold on to her, the pain of losing her.. it doesnt bear thinking upon * @Morgan looks at the merchant, eyes serious < 08@Morgan > once you learn who I am, you'll no doubt know by my reputation that I do not say things that are not true. < 04Molly > MERCHANT: I have been here but three weeks, I have heard little of anyone < 08@Morgan > what do you know of the Torrington estate? < 04Molly > MERCHANT: That the Lady is very beautiful and eligible, and her parents passed on... That she is fair and reasonable with the tenants... that is the breadth of my knowledge < 08@Morgan > you know nothing of the master at arms? < 04Molly > MERCHANT: not at all * @Morgan sighs < 08@Morgan > I must be losing my touch < 04Molly > MERCHANT: I would not be troubled by my lack of knowledge, I have kept myself very secluded... I am yet to decide upon what I shall do with this hollow, pointless life I am condemned to, it does no good to make friends only to have them have to mourn my passing... < 08@Morgan > never give up hope... < 04Molly > MERCHANT: There is no hope for me now... it's either a lonely death now, or a lonely death in many years time < 08@Morgan > you are not the first to suffer so... and you will not be the last... but there is always hope for the future < 04Molly > MERCHANT: *he shrugs* I fail to see what I can hope_for_. My love, my future, she is gone < 08@Morgan > no... _that_ love is gone... there may yet be another < 04Molly > MERCHANT: Impossible, I'm afraid. I could never love again < 08@Morgan > I said the same once < 04Molly > MERCHANT: And yet...? < 08@Morgan > and yet here I am, in love again. < 04Molly > MERCHANT: But.... welll.... I suppose I can not argue with that... < 08@Morgan > indeed you cannot < 04Molly > MERCHANT: *he looks at Morgan, and though still pained, there is a faint glimmer of hope there* Then perhaps I do have a future, somehow < 08@Morgan > I've no doubt < 04Molly > MERCHANT: Thank you, you may well have just saved this man's life... * @Morgan nods, smiling < 08@Morgan > by midday you say? < 04Molly > MERCHANT: earlier, if you wish < 08@Morgan > no no, midday is fine < 08@Morgan > I shall ensure someone is in the cottage < 04Molly > MERCHANT: *he nods* thankyou * @Morgan inclines his head and turns to leave the shop < 04Molly > MERCHANT: *he watches morgan go* * Molly waits outside, leaning against the wall, watching two very young boys playing tag, the youngest still unable to walk with wobbling. She smiles broadly < 08@Morgan > it will be delivered tomorrow blossom * Molly jumps, feeling a little awkward, and looks away from the boys who had held her attention < 04Molly > That will be lovely... * @Morgan squints up at the sun < 08@Morgan > is there anywhere else you wish to go? < 04Molly > I hope you were not angry that I left... I'd like to walk by the docks, I want to see the wreckage, help me think about what I wish to do... * @Morgan nods < 08@Morgan > as you wish * Molly starts to hed in that direction < 04Molly > I... I just had a feeling that the mrchant hated me, and I am not used to such * @Morgan wanders along beside her < 08@Morgan > no... no he did not hate you at all < 04Molly > He seemed to stare a great deal... < 08@Morgan > you reminded him a great deal of someone he once knew < 04Molly > Oh, I see... I oft see people and wonder if I know them * @Morgan nods < 04Molly > I can not think I may have known him before today though < 08@Morgan > no... I think you misunderstand... you look a great deal like someone he used to know... it brought back memories < 04Molly > That would explain the anger I perceived * Molly walks closer to him < 08@Morgan > indeed < 04Molly > I wonder that I ought to not go in there again * Molly bites her lip < 08@Morgan > perhaps... not for a while at least < 04Molly > In truth, I found it rather intimidating... < 08@Morgan > I'm certain he did not mean it in such a way * Molly smiles < 04Molly > Oh I doubt it, but I would prefer to not inspire such emotions in others * @Morgan nods < 04Molly > *they walk towards the docks, th town crowded. Molly stick close to his side, almost touching* < 04Molly > Tis very busy today < 08@Morgan > aye, t'is indeed < 04Molly > The vilage will be quieter < 08@Morgan > no doubt... it normally is < 04Molly > I prefer the village... Its like Avebury in many ways * @Morgan nods < 04Molly > Will we go to Avebury on the way to Carleon * @Morgan looks uncertain < 08@Morgan > I... I dont know * Molly looks up to him < 04Molly > I'd dearly like to, but I understand if you do not agree to < 08@Morgan > its not that I do not wish to... but I dont like lying to Maelwys and Anna * Molly looks thoughtful < 04Molly > Yes, that is quite a dilema... it would be very much a shame not to see them though... < 08@Morgan > indeed it would * Molly continues to walk toward the dock, close by his side < 04Molly > Perhaps there is a way to tell some, without telling all... < 08@Morgan > oh? * Molly looks at the dock coming in to sight < 04Molly > Well, they believe you are...? < 08@Morgan > just a normal person, looking for work < 04Molly > and that I am a lady of northern avalon... < 08@Morgan > indeed * Molly smiles at him < 04Molly > So providing they do not meet my parents, must we tell them different? < 08@Morgan > I suppose not < 04Molly > But we could tell them about... about us... if you wish to? I would not push you to do so... * Molly looks away < 08@Morgan > thats as maybe but I woud still be lying at a very basic level < 04Molly > I understand. I feel then that staying away may be the only option * Molly looks to the floor as she walks < 08@Morgan > you wish to see them that much? < 04Molly > Not if it causes you disquiet dear one... Tis not more important to me than your piece of mind < 08@Morgan > I wish... *he looks at the dock* I wish I could tell them. * Molly touches the back of his hand with the back of hers subtly < 04Molly > What prevents you, my love? < 08@Morgan > the fear that they will hate me < 04Molly > I suppose that might well depend on exactly what you tell them * Molly walks over to the rails, walking beside them, looking at the river flowing fast alongside < 08@Morgan > I'm not sure I understand < 04Molly > If you tell them why you lied, why you left Eisen... < 08@Morgan > you think that would make amends for the lies I told them? * Molly shakes her head, looking at him tenderly < 04Molly > I can not promise they could forgive it, but it would help them understand... if they know what you lost... * Molly looks away, back to the river, eyes sad < 08@Morgan > they deserve more than the lies I have told < 04Molly > Hindsight is a wonderful thing, nothing provides more clarity... But had you not concealed this from them, you may not have been welcomed, may not have gone to Lady Catherine's, and then this... us... may not have come to pass < 08@Morgan > I know * Molly stops walking, and turns to face him < 04Molly > The worst that could happen is their reaction could prevent you from seeing them again... and as things are, your own guilt and secrecy prevents this... * @Morgan nods < 08@Morgan > true < 04Molly > I will abide by your decision < 08@Morgan > I will think on it * Molly smiles and nods < 04Molly > Of course, we would be able to see Custennin... and this time, I would not need to feel awkward at his assumption that there is something between us! < 08@Morgan > quite so * Molly walks a little further < 04Molly > I believe he knows you as mastr-at-arms, does he not? < 08@Morgan > no, he doesn't < 04Molly > No? < 08@Morgan > I dotn think so < 08@Morgan > then again... < 04Molly > It is hard to know what to say to whom... < 08@Morgan > indeed it is < 04Molly > I am certain that you will make the best choice... * Molly takes a deep breath as she sees the masts of the rose above the surface of the water * @Morgan takes her hand and squeezes it gently * Molly smiles softly at him < 04Molly > I have seen it many times, yet it is still not easy < 08@Morgan > no, I should think it isn't < 04Molly > And yet tis not really the loss of the ship, so much as the loss of the future I had planned that fills my mind... < 08@Morgan > a future that you no longer need * Molly squeezes his hand < 04Molly > please, do not mistake me, my love, I would not trade what my future now holds for what I had planned < 08@Morgan > I am pleased to hear that * Molly blushes, looking at the forlorn masts < 04Molly > I had hoped that even in a limited capacity, my future involving the Rose involved you also < 08@Morgan > perhaps... were we to refloat the rose it would be the... start of a business * Molly looks around, noticing all the people going about their business, completely oblivious to them. She keeps her hand in his < 04Molly > Is that your wish? < 08@Morgan > well... its certainly worth thinking on * Molly nods, looking at the wreckage < 04Molly > Very expensive... < 08@Morgan > indeed * Molly chews her lip < 04Molly > And the moment it is known I have refloated her and am profitting from owning her, she may be resunk < 08@Morgan > no... for it would be refloated by a son of Eisen... and someone with an awfully fierce reputation for retaliation in kind * Molly looks thoughtful, blue eyes taking in the blue of the skys reflection on the rippled surface of the river < 04Molly > And twould not be mine for long... < 08@Morgan > indeed * Molly sighs < 04Molly > No doubt that will cause comment from some... * @Morgan snorts < 08@Morgan > it may be their last < 04Molly > It saddens me that it might be assumed that I was not meritable to be a wife of a high ranking lord without a ship < 08@Morgan > only by those who are not good enough for your affections blossom * Molly smiles at him, gaze lingering on his face < 04Molly > Truly, there a very few on the face of Theah that could hav found them * @Morgan smiles < 04Molly > I believe the decision regarding the Rose must be made soon, before any further damage occurs... * Molly looks back to the river < 08@Morgan > indeed it does < 04Molly > would you not prefer a ship without so much... history? * @Morgan smiles faintly < 08@Morgan > would I prefer to have a ship that isn't such a part of Eisen, known throughout the land... < 04Molly > Ah but there is a difference between famous and infamous... < 08@Morgan > regardless, I'm an infamous sort of person... < 08@Morgan > though your point is well made < 04Molly > In truth, it shall be a choice I leave to you... wreckage, salvaged timbers, working vessel, whichever way, it will be yours * Molly smiles softly < 08@Morgan > you have no preference? * Molly looks unsure < 04Molly > I worry about the cost involved, that it will render my penniless in the case of a tradgedy... < 08@Morgan > a tragedy? * Molly nods, avoiding his eyes < 04Molly > If something were to happen to you... or go wrong between us... < 08@Morgan > I do not see that occuring < 04Molly > I dearly hope not... but possible. < 08@Morgan > perhaps < 04Molly > You will be careful, won't you, dear heart? < 08@Morgan > careful? < 04Molly > Not to get killed... * Molly keeps her eyes studiously on the river, voice soft < 08@Morgan > I shouldn't think that is very likely * Molly squeezes his hand < 04Molly > What would your father think of the Purple Rose coming in to the Koertig family? < 08@Morgan > I suspect he'd be overjoyed... its certainly a ship to be proud of < 04Molly > Then I ought to fully lend my support to the cause of raising and repairing it... < 08@Morgan > if that is not what you wish, then say so blossom < 04Molly > It really is hard for me to know how I feel... it is so closely wound up with such a turbulent few months of my life.... Part of me feels it would be best to admit its loss... but part of me wishes to bring her to you, as part of my marriage vows... * Molly smiles softly < 08@Morgan > think on it for a day blossom * Molly smiles at him < 04Molly > What would please you most? < 08@Morgan > knowing what it is you would want to do with the rose... * Molly laughs < 04Molly > I want to please you, my love, nothing more... < 04Molly > In truth, I do not know what is best, but could you truly se her salvaged, when she will shortly belong to the family, and increase the standing so? < 08@Morgan > I do not entirely understand < 04Molly > Which part, dear heart? < 08@Morgan > most of it if I'm honest < 04Molly > I wondered that you could stand by and not intervene if I have her salvaged, when it loses the Koertig line the please of owning Eisen's most famous ship < 08@Morgan > my love, the Koertig name has survived this long without the rose, it could survive the future without it * Molly smiles at him < 04Molly > And if I were to sell it? < 08@Morgan > then it gets sold * Molly looks surprised < 04Molly > It would not bother you that your own descendants would miss out in favour of anothers? *she blushes* not that... ummm.... just the family in general < 08@Morgan > regardless of what happens with the rose, I am giving thought to acquiring a ship anyway * Molly smiles < 04Molly > It would be difficult to run yourself... < 08@Morgan > oh I know... I wasn't necessarily thinking of running it myself < 04Molly > Probably wise... you saw the dilema I suffered regarding trying to be in two place at once! And I am not sure I could bear you to be away for many weeks at a time < 08@Morgan > indeed * Molly looks back to the masts < 04Molly > The new ship would not have a ballroom though... < 08@Morgan > no, the new ship would be built for business... one reason I would quite like the rose refloated I sppose < 04Molly > For pleasure? < 08@Morgan > well... flagship, passengers... * Molly smiles < 04Molly > Then she shall be refloated < 08@Morgan > do not make hasty decisions blossom * Molly squeezes his hand < 04Molly > That you have given it thought and would be pleased by the idea is enough. Besides, to decide against it for fear of the cost implies that I do not trust that you wish to care for and support me... * @Morgan nods < 08@Morgan > I can see how you'd think it looks that way... but I know you're an independant girl < 04Molly > I only fear being a burden, and how I would cope were something to happen to take you from me and I were to find myself alone < 08@Morgan > the former you can set aside... * Molly smiles < 04Molly > and the latter? < 08@Morgan > I do not know I can lessen your fears < 04Molly > I suppose my father would let me return to the farm, or I could try to earn enough from my teaching to take somewhere... or take a position as a governess... * Molly looks thoughtful < 08@Morgan > you've thought of something? < 04Molly > that all my 'possible futures' involve avalon, and not eisen * @Morgan looks puzzled * Molly sighs softly, looking away < 04Molly > troubles for a different day I think... < 08@Morgan > as you wish * Molly nods < 04Molly > Have you anywhere else you would wish to go? Having seen the Rose, and been here with you, I feel that refloating her is the best option, for us, for the family, for the- ... for the future. * @Morgan nods < 08@Morgan > ummm... the smithy... that said, the one in the village could do it < 04Molly > No harm in visiting both... In truth it might be many weeks until we are in Tawstock together again < 08@Morgan > true * Molly loosens her grip on his hand < 04Molly > Would you wish me to see the smithy with you/ < 08@Morgan > if you wish to * Molly smiles tenderly < 04Molly > I would not be parted from you for a moment, if I had my choice < 08@Morgan > then we go together * Molly nods, and lets go of his hand, aware that they must go back to the more public areas. There is a sadness in her eyes at it. < 04Molly > Will you fina it hard, returning to your parents house and not being in charge of security there? < 08@Morgan > possibly... it has become rather ingrained in my personality * Molly starts to walk towards the smithy < 04Molly > Is there a master-at-arms in place there? < 08@Morgan > no... there is no need < 04Molly > how so? * @Morgan smiles faintly < 08@Morgan > we are a nation brought up in war... < 04Molly > Surely that would lead to further barricading? < 08@Morgan > not really... in a way we all act as master at arms, so there is no need for the position * Molly nods < 04Molly > Are there many servants? < 08@Morgan > a few... < 04Molly > Is it a large house? * @Morgan smiles < 08@Morgan > to a point * Molly looks puzzled < 04Molly > Would you prefer not to discuss it/ < 08@Morgan > oh its not that... I suppose it could be considered a fair size < 04Molly > Bigger than the Torrington House? * @Morgan smirks slightly < 08@Morgan > indeed die Dauerhaftigkeit < 08@Morgan > is somewhat larger * Molly thinks a moment < 04Molly > strength, resilience... < 04Molly > and larger?! < 08@Morgan > permanancy * Molly smiles < 04Molly > I can most certainly see the appeal in that... certainly something my life so far has lacked < 08@Morgan > unfortunately it suffers from the eisen predilection to stupidity... < 04Molly > I'm not sure I understand < 08@Morgan > turrets < 08@Morgan > battlements < 08@Morgan > think castle on a smaller scale * Molly grins excitedly < 04Molly > A castle! It would be like being a princess! * @Morgan nods < 08@Morgan > indeed * Molly smiles at him < 04Molly > It will be strange to be somewhere so grand. I hope I do not let you down < 08@Morgan > I seriously doubt that blossom < 04Molly > I am very excited about going to Sudlachenburg * Molly walks close beside him < 08@Morgan > something had given me that impression < 04Molly > I am looking forward to meeting your parents, even though I am very nervous < 08@Morgan > I'm sure there's nothing to be nervous about < 04Molly > I am also looking forward to befriending as many of the staff as possible... although if it gives the wrong impression, I will understand if I did not ought to be too friendly with them... * Molly looks a little thoughtful < 08@Morgan > I'm sure it will be fine < 04Molly > And I'm looking forward to meeting the villagers, and seeing the Sudlache * Molly smiles, picturing it < 08@Morgan > the sudlache is a beautiful thing < 04Molly > I am a little unsure about visiting the schwarzenwald though * Molly shivers as they walk along the busy road < 08@Morgan > I cant say I'm overkeen on it < 04Molly > Will the shadow fair be on whilst we are there? < 08@Morgan > mostly likely not... I think we should be back in time for Lady Torringtons next gathering < 04Molly > For Lord Torrington's birthday? < 08@Morgan > indeed * Molly thinks < 04Molly > Your birthday and his must be fairly close... < 08@Morgan > its fairly close, yes < 04Molly > I believe there will be an art contest... < 08@Morgan > so I'm told * Molly hears the ringing of the blacksmiths hammer from a few doors down < 04Molly > I thought I might turn my hand to such * @Morgan nods < 04Molly > The only thing I have painted before was the drachen cathedral, so I would be unlikely to win the 500 guilders... * Molly laughs softly < 08@Morgan > is that such an issue? < 04Molly > No, not really... It is a challenging subject though, 'family'... * @Morgan 's face darkens momentarily * Molly looks at him, eyes full of compassion < 04Molly > I'm not even sure I know what family means to me... < 08@Morgan > it is certainly a tough subject * Molly looks very much lost in thought < 04Molly > Aye... * @Morgan looks intently at Molly * Molly sees his look, and blushes < 04Molly > Sorry... * @Morgan looks mildly confused * Molly smiles softly as they reach the door of the smithy, a rough warehouse, lit by the open fire, a strong smell of molten metal. < 04Molly > It matters not < 08@Morgan > as you wish < 04Molly > SMITHY: *the hammer rings against the anvil as the metal is flattened. The noise prevents him noticing them* * Molly gathers and lifts her skirt slightly to avoid the dirty floor * @Morgan coughs loudly < 04Molly > SMITH: *he looks up from his work, setting aside the hammer. He wipes his hands on his leather apron. He is tall, dark, handsome, very practical looking. He is barely 20* Good morning sir, ma'am. That's if it is morning still, o' course! * @Morgan looks around < 08@Morgan > I've a couple of questions for you master... < 04Molly > SMITH: *he smiles at them both, running a sooty hand through his dark hair. The workshop is well-kept, but very much the sterotypical blacksmiths* O' course, sir < 08@Morgan > I'd like to know... how well do you shoe horses? and secondly, are you in the practice of making swords? < 04Molly > SMITH: Quite well, I believe. I was apprenticed at 9... < 08@Morgan > I have two horses I need shoeing... one of them is rather... solid < 04Molly > SMITH: So you'll be wanting thicker and wider shoes, sir? < 08@Morgan > indeed... they're to be taken on a long journey soon, as well * Molly looks over to him < 04Molly > SMITH: I can probably do them both next week, sir? * @Morgan nods < 08@Morgan > that'll be fine < 04Molly > SMITH: AS for a sword... what style were you thinking? For proper fighting, or just duelling? *the last word is said with a smidge of derision* < 08@Morgan > now... about this sword... * @Morgan smiles < 08@Morgan > do I look the sort to put much stock in duelling? No, a proper sword, but plain. < 04Molly > SMITH: *he smiles* Good. I hate duelling swords. Not only are they harder to make, but duelling seems such a waste of time. I'd far rather be in a proper battle! < 08@Morgan > I find those obsessed with duelling are useless with anything more substantial than a butter knife * Molly giggles < 04Molly > SMITH: I was hoping to join the army this summer, but my father bought this here shop, and so I'm to be a blacksmith forever! < 08@Morgan > an honourable trade... though you may think otherwise, never forget that smiths keep the army supplied with weapons to defend the realm < 04Molly > SMITH: True, but I'd rather be there, doing the defending, winning over the pretty lasses with my gallantry. * Molly smiles at Morgan * @Morgan starts to laugh < 04Molly > I think that you could win the hearts of many without joining the army... *she smiles at him* < 04Molly > SMITH: Aye, perhaps *he smiles back* Did you have any specific requirements for the sword? < 08@Morgan > just a plain sword... *he draws his own* like this one < 04Molly > SMITH: *he comes over, holding out his hands* May I, sir? * @Morgan hends the sword over reluctantly < 04Molly > SMITH: *he takes it, looking it over. He gets more and more puzzled* This isn't Avalonian... < 08@Morgan > no, its not < 08@Morgan > I find Avalonian swords tend to be more... dressy < 04Molly > SMITH: *he nods, still looking* Ussuran? < 08@Morgan > Eisen < 04Molly > SMITH: *he looks up, and quickly returns the sword* I shall do what I can, sir < 08@Morgan > the one thing that must be different... it needs to be better balanced < 04Molly > SMITH: Best that I attempt it first to see if it is suitable < 08@Morgan > suitable? < 04Molly > SMITH: If I haven't been able to do it correctly, I would not wish you to have something inferior < 08@Morgan > I suspect, from your attitude, that you'll be able to do it just fine < 04Molly > SMITH: It will take about a week to do... * @Morgan nods < 08@Morgan > and the cost? < 04Molly > SMITH: Ten guilders for the horses... and another ten for the sword * @Morgan nods and dips into his pouch, counting out five guilders < 08@Morgan > as a desposit for the sword < 04Molly > SMITH: *he smiles broadly* Thankya, sir... < 08@Morgan > remember what I said about the balance please < 04Molly > SMITH: I will. Is there anything else, sir? < 08@Morgan > no, thats everything *he smiles* < 04Molly > SMITH: *he nods* Good day, sir, ma'am * @Morgan looks to Molly and heads out of the door * Molly follows him < 04Molly > He seemed very nice < 08@Morgan > didn't he * Molly smiles softly < 04Molly > A little naive perhaps < 08@Morgan > thoroughly * Molly walks beside him < 04Molly > It troubles me to think that perhaps I have become a little more jaded than others of my age < 08@Morgan > you've been exposed to the real world blossom * Molly sighs softly < 04Molly > It is the effect of the estate I believe... < 08@Morgan > quite probably < 04Molly > Shall we go and collect Aurora? * Molly smiles excitedly < 08@Morgan > if you wish blossom < 04Molly > Unless there is anything else you wish to do? < 08@Morgan > no, I think I'm done * Molly starts to lead the way * @Morgan follows on, offering his arm * Molly looks surprised, and then grins broadly, slipping her arm into his. She looks up at him adoringly < 04Molly > All in all, it has been a very good day so far * @Morgan nods < 08@Morgan > I wish you to know... my reluctance to hold your hand in public is not from some desire to keep what we have a secret... it is my idea of what is right * Molly blushes < 04Molly > You need not justify anything to me, dear heart < 08@Morgan > perhaps not, but I would not wish you to think I am ashamed of what we have < 04Molly > I very much look forward to the time in which you might be as affectionate with me as your heart will allow * @Morgan nods < 08@Morgan > as do I * Molly squeezes his arm < 04Molly > I have never been so happy, so contented as I am now < 08@Morgan > I am pleased to hear that < 04Molly > I think perhaps Aurora ought to be led back, I doubt she would tolerate a long ride just yet < 08@Morgan > probably you're right, yes < 04Molly > Though after walking back, she might be a little better, if you still wish to take them for a ride? < 08@Morgan > if that is what you wish * Molly smiles < 04Molly > You need not conform to my wishes, my love, I am more than happy just to be with you < 08@Morgan > perhaps it would be wiser to leave it until tomorrow < 04Molly > That sounds good to me. We could make a day of it, if work does not prevent you from doing so? * @Morgan nods < 04Molly > **they walk back to sunnymeade, not saying a great deal, just happy to be together