**** BEGIN LOGGING AT Wed Mar 23 12:55:51 2022 Mar 23 12:55:51 * MollyK (~igloo@CrystabllesiPad.lan) has joined Mar 23 12:56:08 * MollyK looks it over Mar 23 12:56:20 Oh this is pretty! Mar 23 12:57:08 * Morgan nods Mar 23 12:57:11 its not bad at all is it Mar 23 13:00:26 *the stables are good too, the former commander and his wife seemingly keeping several, and polite groomsmen show them towards the main house. Both these servants have scarring, one is missing his left hand, the other has a serious limp. Mar 23 13:01:01 I don't suppose you were comrades of the commander during the war? Mar 23 13:02:09 G: That we were, Excellency. He got us sorted 'ere when it was all done. All the staff knew him back then Mar 23 13:02:22 treats you well? Mar 23 13:02:38 G: Very well, yeah Mar 23 13:02:50 * Morgan nods Mar 23 13:07:26 *Inside the main hall is airy and light. There are a few paintings on the wall, but it's generally quite understated. The Butler looks very smart in navy livery, and he has a matching eye patch. He bows Mar 23 13:07:58 B: Good afternoon, your Excellencies. Might I take your cloaks? Mar 23 13:08:53 * Morgan helps Molly out of hers before handing his over, thanking the man Mar 23 13:10:32 * MollyK hangs them up Mar 23 13:11:14 B: would you prefer to see your rooms, or take refreshments in the drawing room, your Excellencies? Mar 23 13:12:15 A drink would go a long way about now Mar 23 13:16:05 *the butler shows them through to a drawing room on the west side of the house with huge windows the overlook a lawn. It is the perfect angle for the late afternoon, and the room is warm even without a fire. Again, the decoration is subtle, making the space feel restful. Molly wanders round whilst the butler is gone, eventually settling on a couch Mar 23 13:16:05 facing out of the window Mar 23 13:16:44 Now _this_ is the sort of place I could be very happy in Mar 23 13:17:02 * MollyK nods Mar 23 13:17:35 Big but not too big. Fancy enough for guests but not gaudy Mar 23 13:17:42 * Morgan nods Mar 23 13:17:52 They're obviously proud of the grounds Mar 23 13:18:15 Because of the windows? Mar 23 13:18:54 you wouldn't look out onto a swamp... Mar 23 13:19:35 * MollyK nods. The butler serves them coffee before shutting the door quietly Mar 23 13:19:59 An interesting choice for staffing Mar 23 13:20:17 * Morgan nods, looking mildly suspicious Mar 23 13:20:27 * MollyK watches him Mar 23 13:20:38 What is it, my love? Mar 23 13:21:02 He either counts them among his friends... or.. he's just surrounded himself with people he knows can fight... Mar 23 13:22:39 * MollyK nods Mar 23 13:22:47 Either would be sensible Mar 23 13:23:05 Does that mean he's expecting trouble... Mar 23 13:24:33 *An arrow comes flying past the window as if shot from the roof above the window, and hits the lawn Mar 23 13:25:01 * MollyK looks an Morgan with a smile, then blows on her coffee Mar 23 13:25:55 Well... Mar 23 13:27:20 Rather odd Mar 23 13:27:53 * Morgan nods Mar 23 13:28:16 doesn't necessarily mean the latter, mind... Mar 23 13:28:44 No... *she adds a lot of milk to the coffee* Mar 23 13:29:31 Bit strong for you? Mar 23 13:29:36 *Another arrow hits it, further out this time* Mar 23 13:30:17 No, I rather think very soon you will wish to find out what the arrow was about, so I wished to have it cool enough to drink immediately Mar 23 13:30:41 * Morgan nods slightly Mar 23 13:31:32 * MollyK drinks some coffee, watching a third arrow join the others Mar 23 13:31:57 I would imagine this room is lovely when the light lowers and becomes all golden Mar 23 13:32:09 * Morgan nods, sipping his coffee Mar 23 13:32:15 Aye, I would think so Mar 23 13:35:52 * MollyK 's attention jumps around from the room, her husband, and the arrows hitting the grass. Then the door opens Mar 23 13:37:01 * Morgan turns to look at the door Mar 23 13:39:31 D: Oh, there you are! Good day, your Excellencies, welcome to Hafenlohr. *The woman who comes in is better dressed than a servant, very curly black hair pulled back in ribbons. She looks to be in her late teens, possibly early twenties. She has in her arms a little dog, it's fur similar to her hair, and it also has a ribbon in the same turquoise Mar 23 13:39:31 satin as her gown and hair ties.* Mar 23 13:40:39 * Morgan inclines his head Mar 23 13:40:50 Thank you for having us. Mar 23 13:40:55 * MollyK stands politely Mar 23 13:42:31 D: It's no bother. Herr Dekker has a lot of visitors who are travelling by. Doesn't he, Peaches? *she makes a kissy face at the dog* Mar 23 13:43:13 * MollyK glances at Morgan, biting her lip to contain a giggle Mar 23 13:44:15 * Morgan looks at the dog Mar 23 13:44:26 Whats with the arrows? Mar 23 13:46:02 *The dog has a look about it like it is not at all bright, very pampered and probably quite useless at anything dogs had evolved for* Mar 23 13:46:33 D: Herr Dekker has taken Lord Koertig up on the ramparts to fire some arrows Mar 23 13:47:00 * Morgan nods slightly Mar 23 13:47:16 I suppose if they are aiming to hit the garden, they're doing well so far Mar 23 13:47:37 D: It's very silly Mar 23 13:47:55 * MollyK picks up the coffee, finishing it Mar 23 13:48:14 [Why is she carrying a rat with a fringe?] Mar 23 13:48:27 Its certainly not to my tastes... Mar 23 13:49:38 * MollyK chokes on a mouthful of coffee Mar 23 13:50:04 D: Are you alright, do you need a doctor? Mar 23 13:51:08 * MollyK shakes her head "No no, I am fine, thank you. Would they welcome another person, do you think?" Mar 23 13:51:55 D: You want to go up there?! It's ever so high and dirty! Mar 23 13:53:01 * MollyK glances at Morgan "Is that alright?" Mar 23 13:54:07 Of course blossom Mar 23 13:55:30 Did you wish to join me, my love? Mar 23 13:56:08 I'll come up but I'm not going anywhere near a bow Mar 23 13:56:22 D: I didn't think Dukes and Duchesses would have pet names for each other that they used in public! Mar 23 13:56:42 * MollyK blushes a little at this Mar 23 13:57:28 I wouldn't imagine the rest of them do Mar 23 13:57:48 D: why do you? Mar 23 13:58:26 Because we're not like the rest of them Mar 23 13:59:54 D: *she nods, kissing the dog's head* I'll show you the way, but I don't see why you would want to do something so unrefined Mar 23 14:01:24 I can't say I understand the appeal of it either Mar 23 14:01:46 * MollyK nods. The butler brings their cloaks and the woman leads them through the house. It is all similar to what they have seen, understated, calm, but well-maintained. More staff with old wounds are at work. Most Mar 23 14:02:50 Are men, but there are a few women too. A young girl of about twelve has old burns on one side of her face. Mar 23 14:03:57 [_or_ he feels guilty] Mar 23 14:04:52 [Also possible] Mar 23 14:05:20 *to the woman* Hafenlohr is very beautiful Mar 23 14:05:46 D *she shrugs* It's dull. Mar 23 14:06:32 Have you visited Graf Maubourg? Mar 23 14:07:16 D: Only once, but Herr Dekker has gone a few times. I find him boring. Mar 23 14:07:42 * MollyK watches Morgan sidelong Mar 23 14:07:45 _that_ house is dull Mar 23 14:08:07 D: His house is very ugly Mar 23 14:08:34 [Rude, but not incorrect.] Mar 23 14:09:19 [Indeed] Mar 23 14:10:32 D: I like houses in proper towns best, where there are things to do like balls and musicals, and the opera, and riding in the park with friends. Mar 23 14:11:44 [And now I've got a decent estimation of her] Mar 23 14:11:57 [oh?] Mar 23 14:12:27 I see Mar 23 14:13:16 D: You are from Sudlachenburg, aren't you? That's even more rural than Hafenlohr Mar 23 14:14:33 * Morgan nods Mar 23 14:14:39 indeed Mar 23 14:15:01 *they get to the stairs several flights up. She stops, the little dog making a yapping noise* Peaches doesn't like it up there, the cold gets into his ears and makes his head hurties Mar 23 14:16:09 I'm sure we can find our way from here Mar 23 14:18:04 *she nods, walking down the hall with her dog. Molly watches her go* Mar 23 14:18:35 I cannot figure it out. Is she his daughter, or the lady of the house? Mar 23 14:18:47 * Morgan shrugs Mar 23 14:18:52 ask Edward... later... Mar 23 14:20:00 * MollyK nods Mar 23 14:20:43 whispering She is certainly a... notable personality Mar 23 14:21:01 * Morgan nods Mar 23 14:24:08 * MollyK heads up, opening the heavy door at the top. Into the fresh air, the light is now starting to turn. The views from up here are spectacular, able to look over the formal gardens, the lake past the lawn, all the trees, and to the north in the distance they can see Maubourg's estate. Mar 23 14:24:32 How could anyone describe this place as dull?! Mar 23 14:24:56 [It isn't frilly] Mar 23 14:28:57 ACTION heads in the direction of Edward and a man of a similar height. His hair is brown laced with grey, kept quite short. There is a long line that is bald, likely where a scar is. He is dressed much like Morgan does, well-enough to show some prosperity, but the focus very much on practicality. He bows deeply to them when Edward introduces him Mar 23 14:28:58 as Herr Mannfred Dekker, former Commander in the Objectionist Army. Mar 23 14:31:11 * Morgan inclines his head before offering his hand Mar 23 14:33:35 D: *He shakes it, his handshake firm, but he is missing the tip of the littlest finger* It is an honour to have you at Hafenlohr, your Excellency Mar 23 14:34:41 My brother speaks highly of you... how do you prefer to be addressed? Mar 23 14:35:39 D: Dekker is fine. And yourself? Mar 23 14:38:04 * Morgan glances at his brother Mar 23 14:38:08 Morgan will do Mar 23 14:38:56 E: He doesn't go by Tiggy *he laughs, as does Dekker* Mar 23 14:41:56 *Dekker looks to Molly. He has an easygoing but calm sort of demeanour, not unlike the house itself* Your Excellency, I hope you will enjoy your stay. My staff will be happy to see to anything you need. Mar 23 14:42:52 * MollyK smiles warmly, holding out her hand which he bows over "Molly, please. Hafenlohr is beautiful, thank you for your hospitality" Mar 23 14:44:05 D: *he nods* It is a good estate, did you see the lake? *they chat briefly about the house whilst Edward lays down the bow and moves to talk quietly to Morgan* Mar 23 14:44:20 E: How did it go with Maubourg? Mar 23 14:44:36 No-one died, despite a guards best efforts Mar 23 14:46:22 * MollyK is now known as Edward Mar 23 14:46:35 * Edward nods Mar 23 14:46:45 You and Molly are well? Mar 23 14:46:52 * Morgan nods Mar 23 14:47:03 who's the woman with the... dog Mar 23 14:47:18 Diana, Frau Dekker Mar 23 14:47:32 * Morgan nods slightly Mar 23 14:47:48 You've met her then? Mar 23 14:48:13 Aye... she was telling us about how this place is... dull... and how Maubourg is boring Mar 23 14:48:39 * Edward looks like he disapproves Mar 23 14:48:49 I like Hafenlohr Mar 23 14:49:05 Its a very pretty place Mar 23 14:49:15 * Edward nods Mar 23 14:49:33 but is your attachment to the place more to do with the people... Mar 23 14:50:08 Yes, though I have spent some time here on many occassions Mar 23 14:50:19 * Morgan nods Mar 23 14:51:18 It's a very good point to stay at on the way to Sudlachenburg Mar 23 14:52:34 thats even more rural than here... Mar 23 14:52:56 Your perceptiveness is exemplary. Mar 23 14:53:15 I'm just relaying what I was told... Mar 23 14:56:28 *Molly is now asking Dekker what they were doing, and he tells her how he thinks that a good archer is once of the most useful people to have serve beneath you, both for attack and defence. When he cites examples of notable occassions where archery was the key to battles and skirmishes, she is able to discuss these with him, having studied the Mar 23 14:56:28 Eisen Military History book over the summer. He looks to be enjoying this. Edward watches Morgan* Mar 23 14:58:17 Her interest in this surprised me when we went to the museum in Atemlos Mar 23 14:58:32 * Morgan nods Mar 23 14:58:47 stop staring at me, I'm not going to throw your friend from the ramparts Mar 23 14:59:13 I never suggested you were. Mar 23 15:03:39 Many men would not want their wife discussing war tactics with a former Commander as if she were a former military officer herself Mar 23 15:04:02 * Morgan smiles slightly Mar 23 15:04:07 I am not many men Mar 23 15:06:26 *Molly asks Edward for the bow and some arrows. Edward looks at Morgan* Mar 23 15:06:56 * Morgan looks at him Mar 23 15:07:03 would you rather _I_ fire some? Mar 23 15:08:28 * Edward looks to be weighing it up before handing them to Molly, but he's obviously uncomfortable with it Mar 23 15:10:37 well done Mar 23 15:11:26 *Molly isn't at all bothered by his disapproval, instead taking the opportunity to get some tutorage from the former Commander, who, unlike Edward, seems very impressed with her ability and confidence. He takes her through how to correct for the breeze, and the difference between shooting down on an enemy like this rather than target shooting. She Mar 23 15:11:27 is quickly engrossed in it, and Dekker seems to welcome teaching her Mar 23 15:12:04 * Edward leans against the wall, watching it Mar 23 15:12:33 Maybe you should try from here, with gravity on your side. Mar 23 15:13:51 * Morgan lifts his foot and wiggles it slightly Mar 23 15:14:10 I nailed my own foot to the ground with a longbow... that shouldn't even be _possible_. I'll pass. Mar 23 15:15:47 * Edward shrugs. The light is getting lower again. Then there's a smashing noise, and Dekker laughs "excellent work, even Edward couldn't hit that, and he was one of our better archers" Mar 23 15:17:20 * Edward puts his hands in his pockets "Now I am being beaten by a girl." Mar 23 15:17:33 Avalonian girl... Mar 23 15:19:26 Don't remind me. Mar 23 15:20:01 Who'd never picked up a bow until... not long ago Mar 23 15:21:17 I'm still better than you Mar 23 15:21:52 A one legged donkey is better with a bow than I am Mar 23 15:21:57 its not a difficult thing Mar 23 15:25:20 * Edward shrugs, watching her. Dekker has her doing rapid firing now. He isn't at all coddling her, her errors are not pointed out but her successes are praised genuinely. It's easy to see why he still has the respect of men like Edward Mar 23 15:26:24 * Morgan nods slightly to himself Mar 23 15:29:19 *Molly and Dekker both look reluctant to stop when the sky has turned red and it is too dark to continue. She thanks him profusely, and he assures her none is needed. Edward offers her his arm to lead her downstairs, and Dekker follows on, bringing the bow* Mar 23 15:29:24 * Edward is now known as Dekker Mar 23 15:29:36 Your wife has an aptitude for archery Mar 23 15:30:59 * Morgan nods Mar 23 15:31:14 She does... a damn sight better than I am Mar 23 15:31:38 Edward mentioned you do not get on well with it Mar 23 15:32:03 that may be something of an understatement Mar 23 15:32:48 I have something of an inaptitude for rifles, myself Mar 23 15:33:10 unfortunate Mar 23 15:34:25 Have you met my wife and her dog yet? Mar 23 15:34:47 * Morgan nods Mar 23 15:34:50 we have Mar 23 15:35:42 She was keen to meet a Duke and Duchess Mar 23 15:36:20 I think perhaps we fall short of her expectations Mar 23 15:37:17 She will get over it. Your wife is delightful. Intelligence in a woman is an underrated trait. Mar 23 15:38:21 * Morgan nods Mar 23 15:38:37 I think my brother would prefer she doesn't show it quite so often... or get involved with things like archery... Mar 23 15:41:56 Why hide her light under a bushel? If she is smart, let her be smart. I don't have much time for treating women like lap dogs Mar 23 15:42:14 * Morgan nods Mar 23 15:43:58 You must be looking forward to the upcoming nuptials? Mar 23 16:08:27 * Dekker has quit (Ping Timeout) Mar 23 18:04:08 * MollyK (~igloo@CrystabllesiPad.lan) has joined Mar 23 18:04:19 [15:36:03] Dekker: You must be looking forward to the upcoming nuptials? Mar 23 18:05:24 * MollyK is now known as Dekker Mar 23 18:05:36 I'm not looking forward to sleeping in the snow Mar 23 18:07:45 I would imagine it will be a time of camaraderie Mar 23 18:09:02 * Morgan nods slightly before frowning briefly Mar 23 18:09:58 I am happy for him, I know he has loved Lady Hapsburg for many years Mar 23 18:10:26 Indeed he has. Mar 23 18:12:05 It is good he will be settling down Mar 23 18:13:33 I think he'd be good for Graben Mar 23 18:13:44 * Dekker nods Mar 23 18:14:03 He would have gone far in the Army had the War not ended Mar 23 18:14:39 You think so? Mar 23 18:15:51 * Dekker nods Mar 23 18:16:05 I am certain of it Mar 23 18:16:58 * Morgan nods Mar 23 18:17:11 What rank did he hold? Mar 23 18:18:36 Just Private, but he was expected to become Lieutenant in the summer of sixty five, only six months after the truce, and I would have expected him to rise again in the following year. He has not told you this? Mar 23 18:19:19 We were not always close, there was a fair bit of friction between us... and after my first wife died, I wasn't here Mar 23 18:19:29 * Dekker nods Mar 23 18:20:10 I was aware there had been some issues, but he kept his cards close to his chest. I am sorry for your loss, might I ask how long ago that was? Mar 23 18:21:07 Three and a bit years ago Mar 23 18:21:24 * Dekker nods Mar 23 18:21:32 Diana is my fourth wife Mar 23 18:22:04 * Morgan glances at him curiously Mar 23 18:28:35 * Dekker has quit (Ping Timeout) Mar 23 18:35:22 * MollyK (~igloo@CrystabllesiPad.lan) has joined Mar 23 18:38:30 My first wife was killed when the War came to our city, we were married very young and I was away at basic training. I was just eighteen, so was she. My second wife died during the birth of our first child about ten years after my first had, we had been married five years. My third was a widow of one of my men who had stayed following the drum. We Mar 23 18:38:30 had two sons, they both go to school and live with my sister in Wittenberg during the school terms. Mar 23 18:41:46 * Morgan nods slightly Mar 23 18:42:13 She had consumption. I took a few months out of the fighting to nurse her, but it was not to be. Diana I wed in the last summer of the War, not long after acquiring Hafenlohr. *he delivers all of this quite matter of factly* Mar 23 18:42:19 * MollyK is now known as Dekker Mar 23 18:43:02 I see Mar 23 18:44:48 * Dekker smiles Mar 23 18:45:15 That is usually the reaction I get to people discovering how many wives I have had Mar 23 18:46:57 You do not get the 'I'm so sorry' and over the top sympathising? Mar 23 18:49:05 I did after my first and second wives passed, but once I had wed a third time people's comments became more about how much I obviously love being married Mar 23 18:49:41 * Morgan nods Mar 23 18:51:57 The worst I heard was after wedding Diana, when someone asked me "will you get a fifth one if you lose her?" Mar 23 18:52:20 * Morgan frowns Mar 23 18:52:37 People have no clue how their words can affect others sometimes Mar 23 18:52:44 * Dekker nods Mar 23 18:53:08 They were sore about the large age gap Mar 23 18:54:37 * Morgan nods Mar 23 18:57:07 *They get down stairs where the others have all congregated. Dekker seems unacquainted with Claudia, Inga, HH and Varick, who are all sat down in the room that is filled with a golden pinky light eating from a spread of sandwiches and fruit Mar 23 18:57:41 * Morgan glances at his brother, clearly not pleased Mar 23 18:58:34 *Edward is talking to Diana by the window, and doesn't notice Morgan Mar 23 18:59:39 Dekker, may I introduce my friends and my son Mar 23 18:59:47 * Morgan names them all Mar 23 19:00:06 ((Just first names?)) Mar 23 19:00:35 ((no)) Mar 23 19:01:33 * Dekker is polite and friendly to them all, but he watches Claudia with interest Mar 23 19:01:55 Something on your mind, Dekker? Mar 23 19:02:10 You are Viktor and Gretchen Regenstag's daughter, aren't you? Mar 23 19:02:44 C: *she looks watchful* yes. Mar 23 19:04:01 I visited your Father when you were a little girl. You look very much like your Mother. Mar 23 19:04:48 *Claudia looks very much like she would prefer to not be there, but nods briefly* Mar 23 19:05:13 $Need an exit?$ Mar 23 19:05:43 C:$please$ Mar 23 19:06:39 * Dekker has moved on to crouch down to talk to Varick about the journey. He has the confidence of a man with two sons not much older Mar 23 19:08:57 Excuse us a moment... Claudia *he motions with his head for her to follow* Mar 23 19:09:46 * Dekker is now known as Claudia Mar 23 19:09:52 * Claudia goes with him Mar 23 19:10:32 * Morgan walks out into the hallway, speaking quietly Mar 23 19:10:35 You alright? Mar 23 19:11:43 * Claudia takes a deep breath, cracking her neck Mar 23 19:11:45 Yeah Mar 23 19:16:28 * Claudia has quit (Read error: EOF from client) Mar 23 19:50:24 * MollyK (~igloo@CrystabllesiPad.lan) has joined Mar 23 19:54:27 sure? Mar 23 19:54:37 * MollyK nods Mar 23 19:54:44 Yeah Mar 23 19:54:51 * MollyK is now known as Claudia Mar 23 19:55:09 * Morgan nods Mar 23 19:55:35 alright. Need some time to yourself? Mar 23 19:56:31 Yeah, that's best Mar 23 19:57:21 Alright, as long as you know you don't _have_ to be alone if you don't want to be... Mar 23 19:58:38 * Claudia nods Mar 23 19:58:47 I know, thanks Mar 23 19:59:25 * Morgan nods Mar 23 19:59:40 go on then... I'm going to hover so it at least doesn't look like I was giving you an out Mar 23 20:00:54 * Claudia goes down the hall and out of sight. The maid with the fire-scarred face passes by with a bed warming pan Mar 23 20:01:22 * Morgan nods to her Mar 23 20:01:39 * Claudia is now known as maid Mar 23 20:02:11 * maid curtsies "May I get something for you, your Excellency?" Mar 23 20:03:45 Don't suppose you've got any coffee from Cafe Kafee? Mar 23 20:04:07 No, sorry, just normal coffee Mar 23 20:04:18 * Morgan nods sadly Mar 23 20:04:28 oh well... never mind. Thank you anyway Mar 23 20:05:02 * maid also looks sad, though one half of her mouth doesn't move Mar 23 20:05:38 Sorry, your Excellency Mar 23 20:05:56 Not to worry, miss...*he looks at her expectantly* Mar 23 20:06:46 Maggie, your Excellency Mar 23 20:07:24 Not to worry Maggie, its still better than some I had recently... fairly sure I was given dirt in water... Mar 23 20:07:46 * maid giggles Mar 23 20:07:53 Like camp coffee Mar 23 20:08:38 * Morgan whispers Mar 23 20:08:41 worse Mar 23 20:08:55 * maid smiles Mar 23 20:11:18 I know, hard to believe Mar 23 20:11:31 * maid nods Mar 23 20:12:34 Was there anything else, your Excellency? Mar 23 20:13:15 No, thank you Maggie Mar 23 20:14:55 * maid goes with the pan. Even with the chatter in the drawing room, the house seems quiet Mar 23 20:15:39 * Morgan sighs and goes back into the drawing room Mar 23 20:20:08 *it is busy, and there's no sign of Claudia before it is time to put Varick to bed. Molly and Inga both go, and a card game is started, Diana staying with the men Mar 23 20:23:22 * Morgan watches the others around the table Mar 23 20:25:49 *The relationship between Dekker and his wife seems almost Father-daughterly, she makes him smile and he makes her less air headed. Edward is flirty with her, and she flirts back with him. HH is joking and playing stupid as usual Mar 23 20:29:38 * Morgan joins in the card game, doing the occasional small trick to keep himself amused Mar 23 20:31:31 *Molly doesn't come right back down, and forty five minutes passes* Mar 23 20:33:03 [is everything alright?] Mar 23 20:33:31 [I was just catching up with Inga] Mar 23 20:34:54 * Morgan sips his coffee, watching the others Mar 23 20:38:56 *Molly comes down for dinner, HH goes up to have some with Inga. Like the rest of the house, the dining room is very nice, though the perpetual chatter of Diana asking Molly all about being a Duchess starts to wear after a while. Port and cigars are had as usual, and it seems that Edward is benefitting from time with a man who seems to be like a Mar 23 20:38:56 mentor to him. Another game of cards is had when they get back to the drawing room, but Molly is soon calling it a night due to their very early start Mar 23 20:42:23 I should really follow her example... its going to be a long day tomorrow Mar 23 20:43:26 *Edward nods* Good night, Morgan Mar 23 20:43:41 good night Mar 23 20:43:51 * Morgan inclines his head to the others and heads up to his room Mar 23 20:44:06 * maid is now known as Molly Mar 23 20:45:20 * Molly is already preparing for bed. The room is a soft lavender colour, and is scented the same way. The bed is far bigger than normal. Mar 23 20:45:49 I was not expecting you so soon Mar 23 20:47:05 I want to give Edward time with Dekker... though I imagine he would be a useful ally in convincing Edward Mar 23 20:47:53 As an example of why not to marry a woman who you do not know well? Mar 23 20:50:01 Not as an example, no Mar 23 20:50:35 Are you going to ask him to? Mar 23 20:50:55 No, I don't think Edward would react well to my telling Dekker what is going on Mar 23 20:51:21 * Molly nods, climbing into bed Mar 23 20:51:44 They are a strange couple, aren't they? Mar 23 20:51:52 * Morgan nods Mar 23 20:51:53 aye Mar 23 20:52:05 Do you like him? Mar 23 20:53:23 * Morgan nods Mar 23 20:53:31 you? Mar 23 20:53:45 * Molly smiles Mar 23 20:53:52 Yes, I do Mar 23 20:54:39 And her? Mar 23 20:54:48 I'm sure she grows on you Mar 23 20:55:04 * Molly giggles Mar 23 20:55:21 That would take a long time Mar 23 20:55:56 * Morgan nods Mar 23 20:56:32 And the house? Mar 23 20:56:52 its very nice Mar 23 20:57:06 * Molly nods Mar 23 20:57:20 I agree *she yawns* Mar 23 20:58:43 * Morgan undresses, getting into bed Mar 23 20:59:56 Perhaps a night with less awful nightmares might be nice? Mar 23 21:00:27 That would be wonderful Mar 23 21:01:05 * Molly nods, cuddling up to him Mar 23 21:01:17 Something inappropriate would be good too Mar 23 21:01:56 I would definitely settle happily for that Mar 23 21:02:09 * Molly nods Mar 23 21:02:49 We need to leave not long after dawn, I think? Mar 23 21:03:40 * Morgan nods Mar 23 21:03:42 I'm inclined to agree Mar 23 21:05:23 * Molly gives him a slow, gentle kiss, her body warm against him "goodnight and sweet dreams then, my love" Mar 23 21:06:19 goodnight blossom Mar 23 21:09:31 * Molly settles down, singing to him, and he falls asleep, once more into the thread of the accidental pregnancy. Rather than settle for the evening in the cottage, he decides to ride Xantha down to speak to David about obstructing the wedding. A servant directs him into the parlour, small but neat, to wait for Molly's Father Mar 23 21:12:49 * Morgan waits, stood in a corner Mar 23 21:14:15 * Molly is now known as David Mar 23 21:14:32 * David comes in, looking Morgan over Mar 23 21:14:58 I wondered how long it would take for you to show up Mar 23 21:15:31 And here I am... Mar 23 21:15:46 Where is my daughter? Mar 23 21:16:35 Why don't we discuss your objection first... Mar 23 21:17:12 We have chosen a husband for Molly Mar 23 21:17:51 I see... and who would that be Mar 23 21:18:31 A cousin of hers. She is to come home immediately and will be wed by the end of the week Mar 23 21:19:36 * Morgan scratches his chin Mar 23 21:19:38 No... Mar 23 21:21:02 You will not hold my daughter captive. Inform her that she is to be here tomorrow morning. This nonsense about her wedding You is at an end. Mar 23 21:21:47 I don't hold her captive. She could return if she wishes but... she does not. Mar 23 21:22:24 She will be happy with her cousin. He is a good man, and noble. Mar 23 21:22:47 * Morgan shakes his head Mar 23 21:22:49 no Mar 23 21:23:48 There will be no wedding between you. The Church Of Avalon is stringent about having parental approval Mar 23 21:24:22 If you were any sort of parent, that statement would carry weight Mar 23 21:27:05 * David has quit (Read error: EOF from client) Mar 23 21:33:51 * MollyK (~igloo@CrystabllesiPad.lan) has joined Mar 23 21:34:18 [21:24:41] David: And what would _you_ know about being a parent?! *he looks angry* Mar 23 21:35:08 I am well aware that you do not abandon them to the street... for a start... Mar 23 21:35:50 Bring her back. There is nothing you can offer her better than what she will have with Sebastian. Mar 23 21:36:20 * MollyK is now known as David Mar 23 21:37:44 That is not your choice to make... you forfeit that privilege Mar 23 21:38:29 I forfeit _nothing_. You will bring her or I will fetch her. You do not know who you are talking to! Mar 23 21:38:49 * Morgan smiles slightly Mar 23 21:39:46 You love my daughter? Mar 23 21:40:27 Is this where you tell me if I love her I would let her go... Mar 23 21:41:03 This is where you give an answer, Mar 23 21:41:43 * Morgan nods Mar 23 21:41:51 * David watches him Mar 23 21:42:41 She can have a better life in Insel with him than you can give her here. If you love her, you should want that good life for her Mar 23 21:43:06 Insel?! You want to send her to _Eisen_? Mar 23 21:43:28 She will come to Eisen with her family. Mar 23 21:43:49 You're going as well... Mar 23 21:44:28 I am. Recent developments have meant I am now Freiarr Insel. Mar 23 21:45:07 * Morgan watches him closely Mar 23 21:45:20 You... are a Freiarr... Mar 23 21:45:55 I am. Which means my daughter is a noble woman, and above marrying a servant. Mar 23 21:46:07 * Morgan laughs hard Mar 23 21:46:15 says the man who threw her out to be less than a servant Mar 23 21:46:36 I did not know of our nobility then. Mar 23 21:47:13 Your title... you have no nobility Mar 23 21:49:01 My birth Father was from an old Eisen family, traceable back hundreds of years. Molly and I are nobility. Now, will you accept that whatever has occurred between you is inappropriate and unsustainable, or will I take this matter to your employer? Mar 23 21:51:32 Ah, so you'll know all about the structure of nobility in Eisen, who outranks who, that sort of thing... Mar 23 21:51:51 Of course Mar 23 21:52:29 * Morgan nods Mar 23 21:52:32 tell me... Mar 23 21:53:07 This is not some child's game. Get me my daughter. Mar 23 21:53:16 I'm not playing... tell me. Mar 23 21:55:15 *the door opens, and Martha comes in, looking serious. David looks annoyed* We are busy, Martha. Leave us. Mar 23 21:56:33 *she looks at Morgan * Is it true about Molly? My friend heard from her friend who works in Mar 23 21:56:56 Lady Torrington's kitchen... Mar 23 21:57:28 * David looks annoyed with his wife Mar 23 21:57:57 * Morgan looks at Martha Mar 23 21:58:04 you're asking me what? Mar 23 21:58:19 M: If Molly is having a baby Mar 23 21:58:36 Don't be absurd, of course she isn't! Mar 23 21:59:46 She's not been well... though, given previous history, I doubt thats of much consequence to the pair of you Mar 23 22:00:50 M: she needs to be healthy and well to travel to Eisen and marry Sebastian. I am sure you are upset, but in time you will find a new love Mar 23 22:03:02 * Morgan sighs Mar 23 22:03:09 She's not going Mar 23 22:06:26 M: But we need her to! Mar 23 22:06:54 Martha, out! Mar 23 22:08:11 * Morgan looks at David Mar 23 22:08:16 _need_ her to? Mar 23 22:09:19 M: *she nods, leaving quietly* Mar 23 22:09:57 Her marrying her cousin makes the transition from my uncle's rule to mine smoother Mar 23 22:10:38 Ah, now it all makes sense... social climbing... you abandon her until she's useful to you. Mar 23 22:12:05 She should be of service to her family. In return she will live a life of luxury and privilege. Sebastian will treat her well, and he is eager to have children, he will suit her well Mar 23 22:12:43 * Morgan takes a step closer Mar 23 22:13:07 You disgust me... you are the embodiment of everything that was wrong in Eisen Mar 23 22:14:10 You should mind your manners Mar 23 22:14:22 * Morgan takes another step Mar 23 22:15:00 Oh should I? I should scrape and bow to the mighty noble? Mar 23 22:15:32 Yes. And confirm that my daughter is not with child Mar 23 22:15:43 * Morgan takes another step Mar 23 22:16:52 Beggin' yer pardon, yer worship, after much thinkin' and realisin' yer social standin'... Mar 23 22:20:07 Yes? Mar 23 22:20:31 * Morgan steps closer again Mar 23 22:20:43 * David doesn't move Mar 23 22:20:57 well, see, you should be treated like the visitors at 'er ladyships Mar 23 22:21:23 * David nods Mar 23 22:21:40 I am glad you understand this Mar 23 22:21:57 * Morgan takes one more step Mar 23 22:22:15 so you would 'ave me treat you with that level of respec'... Mar 23 22:24:10 * David nods "You will return my daughter to me tonight" Mar 23 22:24:34 * Morgan suddenly straightens up, thumping David in the jaw, hard Mar 23 22:26:03 * David isn't expecting it, and it knocks him out Mar 23 22:26:31 * Morgan props him in a chair before opening the door and calling for Martha Mar 23 22:27:11 * David is now known as Martha Mar 23 22:27:52 Yes, master hockridge? Mar 23 22:28:45 I'd advise once he comes to, you work on getting him to see sense. Molly is marrying me unless she chooses otherwise, and his trying to _use_ her to increase his standing will not be tolerated. Mar 23 22:30:28 * Martha frowns, looking confused Mar 23 22:31:07 But until a few weeks ago she was marrying a Lord. Then suddenly the banns were being read with you! Mar 23 22:31:34 and that is her choice Mar 23 22:31:46 But does she even love you? Mar 23 22:32:48 You'd have to ask her Mar 23 22:33:59 But she might want to come to Eisen and be a Lady Mar 23 22:34:42 That.. is... her... choice... Mar 23 22:36:12 It's just rumours then that she's had bad morning sickness? Mar 23 22:37:16 She's been sick a couple of mornings... do they say she isn't sick the rest of the day, or do they just jump to conclusions? Mar 23 22:39:59 They say it started about six weeks ago and is getting better, but she was very tired and sick, and that is what I was like when I was pregnant with all my girls Mar 23 22:41:21 Thats how illnesses work... you get ill... then you get better... Mar 23 22:41:41 and you of all people should know about how an illness would affect her... Mar 23 22:43:26 * Martha watches him with that particular expression used by all mothers on all children they are not sure are being truthful. It reminds him of Verity, so far away and who he has not seen for more than two years Mar 23 22:45:06 If Lord Fauntleroy wishes to take matters further, he can find a second... Mar 23 22:45:33 * Martha shakes her head Mar 23 22:46:10 I would like to talk with Molly, explain why this would be best. She will want to be with us I am sure Mar 23 22:47:11 Why would she want to be with anyone who cast her out in case they looked bad only to want her back when she is useful to their social climbing... why would anyone choose that? It is _disgusting_ the way you treated her, the way you treat her still. Mar 23 22:48:09 I think you should go now Mar 23 22:48:28 * Morgan nods Mar 23 22:49:01 one last thing to consider... I'm not sure the people of Insel would react well to hearing how you treated your daughter... or how you now try to use her... Mar 23 22:50:13 Please, there is no need to threaten me Mar 23 22:50:35 I'm not threatening you... I'm protecting Molly. Mar 23 22:50:42 * Morgan moves towards the door Mar 23 22:51:29 You love her very much, don't you? Mar 23 22:51:46 * Morgan looks over his shoulder Mar 23 22:52:43 I would've thought that be fairly obvious, given that we are to be married Mar 23 22:53:54 It's not always about love. Sometimes older men like inneocent younger women because they like someone to baby Mar 23 22:54:29 * Morgan shrugs Mar 23 22:54:33 thats their business Mar 23 22:55:28 * Martha says nothing further. As he shuts the door, he wakes up Mar 23 22:55:49 * Morgan rubs his face, looking at the window Mar 23 22:57:41 *it's still dark. He estimates only an hour has passed Mar 23 22:58:30 * Morgan mutters briefly before trying to settle back to sleep Mar 23 23:00:29 *Molly fidgets, wrapping around him from behind, holding him with her arm over his, almost protectively Mar 23 23:01:46 * Morgan sighs, closing his eyes Mar 23 23:02:31 * Martha is now known as HH Mar 23 23:04:47 *He falls into Molly's dream, he can tell by the yellow tones. In the hallway at their Innesbruck house, HH is still in his coat with a bag over his shoulder. He has much longer hair and it is loose. He also has a neatly trimmed beard, which he is running a hand over whilst looking in the mirror "Looking good, man" Mar 23 23:06:09 Pity you don't Mar 23 23:08:56 * HH laughs, chucking off his stuff onto the floor "Made a good call, leavin' them here while we went back 'ome for Dietlinde and Jana's memorial service. Not sure I'd be able to concentrate if Inga was in tow right now" Mar 23 23:09:30 no? Mar 23 23:09:52 Wouldn't want her foalin' at the side of the road, would we? Mar 23 23:11:20 No, that'd be less than ideal... Mar 23 23:13:39 Speakin' of that, you ever gonna take His Grace up on the offer of seein' the tree? I know you were gonna go that summer, mebbie you shoulda kept yer breeches done up a bit, then Molly wouldn' have been too sick to go Mar 23 23:14:19 probably should, aye Mar 23 23:14:27 * HH leads the way through the house, peering in to rooms on the way and finding no one Mar 23 23:15:24 Mebbie wait til Isiah Fischler's wedding is done? Looks a bit bad his late wife's cousin showing up Mar 23 23:16:54 why? Mar 23 23:17:08 * HH goes out into the garden, the day warmish Mar 23 23:18:05 Never got to the bottom of who was poisoning her, some still think it was 'im. Get rid of her, get a new wife Mar 23 23:18:57 * Morgan shrugs slightly following him Mar 23 23:20:33 * HH spots the heavily pregnant Inga hanging a sheet and jogs over to her, his best friend abandoned. Mar 23 23:24:30 * HH has quit (Read error: EOF from client)