**** BEGIN LOGGING AT Tue Aug 2 17:41:56 2022 Aug 02 17:41:56 * Morgan (~mads@iMac-2.lan) has joined Aug 02 18:36:24 * MollyK (~igloo@31.185.35.52) has joined Aug 02 18:36:54 * MollyK is now known as Edward Aug 02 18:37:04 ((C&p pls) Aug 02 18:38:03 *Zench rolls his eyes "When are you going to find yourself a wife, Matthias?" Aug 02 18:38:03 * Edward snorts "Generally as soon as a husband leaves one unattended" Aug 02 18:38:03 *Edward's friends, and even Dekker, find this amusing. Potts himself is probably laughing hardest. Adalbrecht just glances at Morgan with a raised eyebrow* Aug 02 18:38:03 * Morgan looks at his father impassively before sipping his drink Aug 02 18:38:03 D: Anyone have something more sensible to help Edward? Aug 02 18:38:05 Z: Never crush her spirit. Build her up, never bring her down Aug 02 18:38:07 W: Even when she is more than you can handle? Aug 02 18:38:11 *Zench smiles* Especially then. Aug 02 18:40:10 P: He handles Heidi well Aug 02 18:40:57 *this brings some chuckling, but again it seems to go over Adalbrecht's head Aug 02 18:43:53 * Morgan looks round at the forest Aug 02 18:52:32 *it's all peaceful Aug 02 18:54:01 *there's a little quiet before…* Dekker: Love her like there is no tomorrow, because sometimes there isn't. Aug 02 18:55:00 * Morgan nods, drinking his blokners Aug 02 18:55:19 Don't assume she knows how you feel about her. Tell her, make it abundantly clear Aug 02 18:56:17 ACTION nods, but he and the others seem distracted. There’s a look that passes between the friends. It’s a look of loss, for the woman that nurtured the teenagers as they left basic training and the Academy to face their first near misses, their first kills. It’s silent aside from the crackling of the fire. Edward is the first to tip some of his Aug 02 18:56:17 blokners onto the snowy ground* E: For Vania. Aug 02 18:56:17 * Received a CTCP from Edward (to #7thsea) Aug 02 18:56:38 *Dekker and the others pour some out too* Aug 02 18:56:53 * Morgan nods slightly, doing the same Aug 02 18:59:23 *it's very quiet a few minutes. It's Dekker that breaks the silence* Aug 02 19:00:39 DEkkeer, looking a little stern. It's a sternness Morgan knows from his own pain and coping in Avalon: All of you, pull it together. She would not have wanted you moping for her on a night like tonight. Aug 02 19:02:14 * Edward and the others do nod, trying to make the effort. Aug 02 19:02:20 * Edward is now known as Adalbrecht Aug 02 19:02:31 * Adalbrecht speaks quietly to Morgan Aug 02 19:02:48 It is like he had a life we had no idea of... Aug 02 19:03:00 * Morgan nods, also speaking quietly Aug 02 19:04:26 They are another type of family for him, he loves them dearly. Dekkers wife was very special to all of them Aug 02 19:04:36 * Adalbrecht nods Aug 02 19:05:00 The officer's wives often were. Aug 02 19:05:46 She helped them come to terms with the war, helped them deal with the things they saw, had to do... Aug 02 19:06:08 * Adalbrecht nods grimly Aug 02 19:06:49 I sometimes envied you boys, joining in so late Aug 02 19:07:50 You remember a time before the war? Aug 02 19:08:22 Yes I do. I was eighteen when it started Aug 02 19:08:29 * Morgan nods at his brother Aug 02 19:09:30 We don't. Peacetime for us is as much a challenge as the fighting, because we'd never experienced it Aug 02 19:12:58 We had idyllic childhoods, but the Academy was for fencing, gadding about and getting drunk. In a matter of months we went from young men only waiting around to inherit to gutting other young men. Our social circles contained Vaticine young noblemen, and suddenly we were being asked to kill them and anyone else. We were not prepared as your Aug 02 19:12:58 generation were. Aug 02 19:13:47 I think perhaps you have a slightly... unrealistic view of the war for us Aug 02 19:14:34 You had training we did not. You had lived with that thinking from infancy Aug 02 19:15:35 * Morgan sighs, sipping his drink Aug 02 19:16:15 You were told to kill those who had been friends. We have to let go of the only truth we've known, they are the enemy. Aug 02 19:18:20 That is hard to unlearn, but you all have the best years of your life in peacetime, and to find the common ground. I am glad of that for you. Bringing children into a War is not easy, and knowing your children could be dying on a battlefield at any given moment is not something I would wish upon you. Aug 02 19:22:24 * Morgan nods Aug 02 19:23:25 *A few minutes later, they are all called to eat some of the food. Riefenstahl has bought some wooden plates, carving the fragranced boar meat on to it, and they all eat with their fingers. The herbs and spices really bring out the flavour of the meat, the best Morgan has ever had. The others compliment Riefenstahl, who seems happy to be approved Aug 02 19:23:25 of. Between the eight of them they manage to put away quite a lot of food, just talking less seriously about old times. Aug 02 19:25:38 *It is getting very cold again, even with the fire stoked. Edward does seem to be more of a leader than a follower in this dynamic, and very at ease in a setting closer to an army camp. He has the confidence and self-assurance Morgan saw him have in the brothel. Aug 02 19:28:35 *Riefenstahl taps the other barrel* Now that the weak drink is almost gone, it’s time for something stronger. Aug 02 19:30:54 * Morgan mutters Aug 02 19:31:06 I introduced some Avalonians to Blokners... Aug 02 19:32:01 Molly and David both drink it Aug 02 19:33:09 May I remind you they are of Eisen descent Aug 02 19:33:54 Well we know that now. Aug 02 19:36:05 * Adalbrecht finishes his blokners "How did the Avalonians react?" Aug 02 19:36:26 Like they were drinking naphtha Aug 02 19:36:33 * Adalbrecht laughs Aug 02 19:37:32 You can _almost_ spit fire with it Aug 02 19:37:50 In the background, P: There is no way that is stronger than blokners! Aug 02 19:37:59 Why have you tried that? Aug 02 19:38:10 * Morgan smiles Aug 02 19:38:16 It made a change from juggling Aug 02 19:38:47 * Adalbrecht smiles Aug 02 19:38:54 Rief: It’s Kvass, made from dark rye bread, herbs, and apples. It is Ussuran. Aug 02 19:39:04 * Morgan sits up Aug 02 19:39:14 Now _that_ stuff, you can do it with Aug 02 19:39:28 *Potts takes his tankard over, the others following* Aug 02 19:39:48 You have had it before? Aug 02 19:39:57 * Morgan nods Aug 02 19:41:19 *Riefenstahl gets everyone some, and Potts with his swaggering self-assurance is the first to take a drink* Aug 02 19:41:48 * Morgan watches him, murmuring Aug 02 19:41:51 three... two... one... Aug 02 19:42:00 *Potts and his big mouth learn a lesson, because he is soon coughing hard, much to the laughter of his friends* Aug 02 19:42:10 * Adalbrecht laughs as well Aug 02 19:44:52 *Potts reaction only seems to spurn the others into drinking it and showing they are more able to handle it, though there's still coughing and watering eyes. Riefenstahl is the only one who seems moderately unaffected by it* Aug 02 19:45:24 * Morgan takes his fathers tankard, moving to Rief to get some Aug 02 19:46:20 *Riefenstahl gives Morgan a full tankard, but says very quietly* Do you think I should give your Father just half? Aug 02 19:47:27 * Morgan shakes his head Aug 02 19:47:51 It'll offend him. If he has a sore head in the morning, he's old enough to have known better Aug 02 19:48:17 *Riefenstahl nods, filling it up* Aug 02 19:50:18 * Morgan thanks him, taking it back to his father Aug 02 19:51:10 * Adalbrecht takes it, thanking him Aug 02 19:51:33 * Morgan settles back down beside him Aug 02 19:51:48 Go steady with it. This stuff is responsible for some less than stellar ideas Aug 02 19:52:27 * Adalbrecht sips it carefully, then coughs Aug 02 19:52:54 He's not wrong. Your less than stellar ideas, I take it? Aug 02 19:53:11 Do they sound as stupid if they work? Aug 02 19:53:36 * Morgan takes some in his mouth, exhaling through his nose before swallowing then breathing in through his mouth Aug 02 19:54:33 I suppose not *he sips it again. The Kvass is indeed very strong. It’s not as strong as the Mannheim moonshine was, but it is significantly stronger than blokners. The herbs make it really interesting, he can taste pumpernickel as well as dates, cherries, almonds, apples, and rosemary. It works well together, but slightly different to when Morgan Aug 02 19:54:33 had it before* Aug 02 19:55:18 *Edward and his friends have broken out some cards for pontoon, laying them on Zench's removed coat* Aug 02 19:55:44 Besides, only one of them was mine Aug 02 19:55:54 * Adalbrecht coughs again Aug 02 19:55:58 Heinzharold? Aug 02 19:57:43 I wouldn't let him have this, his brains would turn to mush Aug 02 19:58:06 * Adalbrecht nods Aug 02 19:58:29 I think you might have found a drink that even your wife cannot handle Aug 02 19:59:15 * Morgan nods Aug 02 20:03:07 *the others seem to be playing for drinks. The play is fast, rowdy, and full of sibling-like squabbling, ruled over by Dekker Aug 02 20:04:33 Its almost like watching children isn't it... Aug 02 20:05:12 * Adalbrecht nods, now in the swing of drinking the Ussuran ale with less coughing Aug 02 20:05:29 And now finally Edward is about to become a man Aug 02 20:06:00 I suppose so Aug 02 20:08:11 I know he is a man in many ways already, but taking a wife, and having children, that is where a man really becomes a man Aug 02 20:09:20 It is going to be difficult for him meeting Florrie... and for you. Aug 02 20:09:34 * Adalbrecht nods Aug 02 20:10:34 But that is what Theus has brought us, and maybe she will be a line in the sand Aug 02 20:11:00 How do you mean? Aug 02 20:11:35 We can all move forward as a family. No more recriminations. Aug 02 20:11:50 * Morgan looks at his father Aug 02 20:12:02 * Adalbrecht looks at Morgan Aug 02 20:12:08 Its up to the two of you to reach that point now Aug 02 20:12:31 You are the one who has told me I need to. Maybe it is time I listened to you. Aug 02 20:13:10 You have come to believe I do not try to lead you astray? Aug 02 20:13:47 I have known that a while. But what man likes it when his son is becoming more wise than him? Aug 02 20:14:21 Thats not how I see it Aug 02 20:14:49 * Adalbrecht nods. Witts suddenly says "Shit! Sorry Zench!" Aug 02 20:15:12 * Morgan looks up sharply Aug 02 20:17:11 *The others are all laughing as Witts tries to mop off the cards and Zench's coat where Kvass has been knocked over* Aug 02 20:17:53 Z: Don't fret, man, I have a blanket, and it'll dry by the fire. Aug 02 20:18:08 Uhhh, maybe don't put it near the fire Aug 02 20:19:04 Z: *he raises his tankard in toast to Morgan* An Excellent point from His Excellency! Aug 02 20:19:21 Thus spake the voice of experience... Aug 02 20:19:35 *Edward shakes off the cards* That's the end of pontoon. What did you do, brother? Aug 02 20:20:21 You assume it was me? I'm hurt, disappointed, wounded by your lack of faith in me... and your utter accuracy in assessing the situation Aug 02 20:21:23 *They all laugh, now also wanting to know* Aug 02 20:22:13 Lets say my first trip to Ussura left me without a coat for a while Aug 02 20:22:30 * Adalbrecht is now known as Edward Aug 02 20:22:37 How did it happen? Aug 02 20:22:51 * Morgan glances at his father briefly Aug 02 20:23:08 *Zench stands up, rooting around in his bag. Adalbrecht looks quite mellow* Aug 02 20:24:39 I was involved in an altercation in an inn... while sorting the situation out, I threw my coat, which had received a dose of Kvass, about... four feet from the fire. That stuff is remarkably combustible considering it isn't quite a spirit. Aug 02 20:26:34 P: Burnt it down? E: Ignore that, what was the altercation? Aug 02 20:29:11 I was talking to someone and this... I was going to say mountain of a man, but since I've met a man they call the mountain, he rather pales in comparison... but he was big. He objected to my talking to this person, threw his tankard at me, followed by a fist. He seemed remarkably determined to drive a chair leg through my neck. Aug 02 20:31:07 *Edward grins at Morgan* I empathise, we've all felt that at times Aug 02 20:31:51 * Morgan shrugs Aug 02 20:32:11 I daresay it could've been avoided if I weren't so... mouthy. Aug 02 20:32:31 P: Was he the person in question's husband? Aug 02 20:32:51 * Morgan shrugs Aug 02 20:32:54 He may have been Aug 02 20:33:32 W: what happened next? Aug 02 20:34:03 * Morgan sips his drink Aug 02 20:35:26 I took off my coat, throwing it on a chair, while I remarked that his countenance was remarkably similar to that of a barnyard animal, and perhaps his mother got bored while his father was away... Aug 02 20:37:16 *Zench takes a folded blanket from his bag, setting the bag down. The men are laughing, only Adalbrecht looks a bit confused. A glance at Adalbrecht makes Edward laugh even harder* Aug 02 20:41:30 For some reason... he didn't like that very much and seemed quite intent on removing my limbs Aug 02 20:43:11 *They are all laughing heartily, and then Zench shakes out his blanket, revealing a sizeable hole that has been cut right in the centre* Aug 02 20:44:50 *Zench just stares at it a moment as if he can't understand what has happened to it. The others are rolling with laughter now* Aug 02 20:46:20 Oh dear Aug 02 20:46:24 P: Madame Mischief strikes again! Aug 02 20:47:46 *Zench starts to smile, then puts his head through the hole and tucks the corners around him* Think she's actually done me a favour here, it won't slip off Aug 02 20:50:18 * Edward smiles at Zench "When life gives you a Heidi, you make the best of each prank!" *Zench sits next to Potts, who says far less quietly than he intends to* P: It's cream pies. When life gives you a Heidi, you make cream pies. Aug 02 20:51:04 * Morgan sighs, shaking his head slightly Aug 02 20:51:12 * Edward rubs his forehead. None of the others look anything less than amused, but Adalbrecht says "Heidi cooks well?" Aug 02 20:52:34 *A look passes around the others, laughter concealed. Zench, put of the spot, seems to flounder* Aug 02 20:54:23 Yes, Father. Heidi can cook well. Though you always take a chance, because what she says it is might not be what it is once you eat it. *Edward doesn't seem to be making an innuendo, but Zench and Potts look like they are going to explode trying to stay straight-faced* Aug 02 20:55:49 *Witts starts telling a story about Heidi's cooking, and they get back to drinking. Adalbrecht is frowning, and whispers to Morgan "What _is_ a cream pie, Morgan?" Aug 02 20:56:27 How can you have been in the navy and not know that? Aug 02 20:56:38 * Edward is now known as Adalbrecht Aug 02 20:57:17 I did not tend to get involved in things of an indelicate nature. Aug 02 20:57:37 It shows. Its a euphemism, obviously Aug 02 20:57:49 Yes, I can see that. But what for? Aug 02 20:57:59 Are you sure you want to know? Aug 02 20:58:19 No, Morgan, I ask for your counsel constantly. Aug 02 20:59:42 * Adalbrecht is clearly being sarcastic Aug 02 21:00:03 * Morgan shrugs slightly Aug 02 21:00:40 When you don't use the vaticine method, what occurs is what's known as... Aug 02 21:03:05 * Adalbrecht blushes Aug 02 21:03:21 Oh. Right, yes, I understand. Thank you, Morgan. Aug 02 21:03:42 * Morgan nods, grumbling Aug 02 21:03:53 No bloody idea _why_, mind you Aug 02 21:05:47 Well I suppose because it loo-... never mind. Aug 02 21:06:05 * Adalbrecht takes a big mouthful of Kvass, then coughs. Aug 02 21:06:16 Try not to kill yourself with that stuff Aug 02 21:07:12 * Adalbrecht nods Aug 02 21:11:47 *The consumption of the Kvass in the next hour, tankards topped up, on top of all the blokners means the conversation does start to wind down. Adalbrecht one of the first to find a spot and wrap up beneath the snowy branches to sleep beneath a tree. Morgan can hear Witts talking about a woman in Zweibrucke who he is in some trade negotiations with Aug 02 21:11:47 where they are constantly in conflict over the price. Edward comes to sit with Morgan, bringing him some more Kvass Aug 02 21:11:54 * Adalbrecht is now known as Edward Aug 02 21:12:02 Good stuff. Aug 02 21:13:52 I've certainly had worse Aug 02 21:14:09 * Edward gestures towards Adalbrecht Aug 02 21:14:16 It's helped someone sleep Aug 02 21:14:44 * Morgan nods Aug 02 21:15:06 He seems to be a bit more accepting of your friends now Aug 02 21:15:39 * Edward nods Aug 02 21:15:53 I did ask them to tone it down, but... Aug 02 21:17:02 As soon as drink is involved, its never going to happen... I think Potts could do with minding his manners some though Aug 02 21:17:23 * Edward nods Aug 02 21:17:32 I'll remind him tomorrow Aug 02 21:18:53 * Morgan nods Aug 02 21:19:26 ACTION sips a little ale "How do you think Mina is doing tonight?" Aug 02 21:19:29 * Received a CTCP from Edward (to #7thsea) Aug 02 21:19:56 I'm sure she's fine Aug 02 21:20:03 I would understand her having cold feet, or last minute regrets. Aug 02 21:21:26 I rather think she'd have had them by now Aug 02 21:22:26 * Edward shrugs Aug 02 21:22:47 The news of Florrie is still fresh, for both of us. Aug 02 21:23:01 * Morgan nods Aug 02 21:23:09 If she has worries about it, Molly will help guide her Aug 02 21:23:22 * Edward nods Aug 02 21:23:36 She is good at that Aug 02 21:23:48 * Morgan nods Aug 02 21:23:52 Aye, she is Aug 02 21:24:39 I am sure she will be alright too, even if she does only have Grendlik, Uncle Christopher, and His Grace to dance with. Aug 02 21:26:24 only... the Eisenfurst and a foreign noble... and I've not gotten started on finding Holzheims heritage yet Aug 02 21:26:42 Orphaned, isn't he? Aug 02 21:27:27 * Morgan nods Aug 02 21:28:26 I admit I wanted to beat him to death when I heard about Jarvie's increasing, but he has grown on me Aug 02 21:29:36 * Morgan nods Aug 02 21:29:50 I've known him a while, actually Aug 02 21:30:56 * Edward nods Aug 02 21:31:04 Jarvie seems happy Aug 02 21:31:10 * Morgan nods Aug 02 21:31:30 I think she's surprised to find she's actually very fond of him... in love, even. Aug 02 21:31:47 * Edward smiles Aug 02 21:31:58 Good Aug 02 21:32:30 * Edward sips his drink Aug 02 21:33:06 How grumpy will Father be in the morning? Cold night, poor sleep, hard ground, probably a hangover... Aug 02 21:33:20 Getting dripped on by melting snow... Aug 02 21:33:38 * Edward watches the branches above Adalbrecht Aug 02 21:33:57 * Morgan glances at it, melting a small amount of snow Aug 02 21:34:28 *it lands in Adalbrecht's face. He grumbles, rubbing it away. Edward snorts* Aug 02 21:34:58 He is your problem tomorrow. I am going to have my hands full Aug 02 21:35:10 I have a plan Aug 02 21:35:21 What plan? Aug 02 21:36:49 To start with,I'm going to remind him he is representing Sudlachenburg at a wedding attended by the Eisenfurst... second, his son is getting married, after much strife the family is united and can move forward... thirdly, I'm going to remind him that Mother would be disappointed if he is surly on your wedding day Aug 02 21:37:34 * Edward winces Aug 02 21:37:39 That last one... Aug 02 21:37:51 Held in reserve for emergencies Aug 02 21:37:59 * Edward nods Aug 02 21:38:19 If I do not get a moment to tell you tomorrow, thank you for all of this, brother. Aug 02 21:38:42 * Morgan shakes his head Aug 02 21:40:03 I've just helped a small amount to put it right. Aug 02 21:40:43 If you hadn't been willing to intervene, Mina would have been obliged to wed with her Father's ailing, and I... *he sighs* I do not know where I would have ended up by now. Aug 02 21:42:00 As I said at the time, as angry as I was, what sort of hypocrite would I be if I did not fight for love Aug 02 21:42:50 * Edward nods Aug 02 21:43:01 But still. My fiancée and I thank you Aug 02 21:43:49 * Morgan nods Aug 02 21:43:56 It was my honour Aug 02 21:44:38 I am sorry we could not get to this place sooner. I would have been honoured to have attended your wedding Aug 02 21:47:02 Its time to let that go. The important thing now is we have gotten here. Aug 02 21:47:07 * Edward nods Aug 02 21:47:19 I will ensure I am at all the christenings. Aug 02 21:48:51 * Morgan nods Aug 02 21:49:11 In a couple of days, I want to talk with you privately Aug 02 21:50:02 About? Aug 02 21:50:10 Florrie Aug 02 21:50:15 * Edward nods Aug 02 21:50:29 Alright. Did you speak with His Grace? Aug 02 21:50:49 * Morgan nods, sighing Aug 02 21:52:04 He wants me to make a plan... says he has to think about what benefits may need to be removed in return for amending the agreement. I've made an argument against that. Aug 02 21:52:17 * Edward nods Aug 02 21:52:36 If you are not working as long, he would need to pay someone else instead? Aug 02 21:53:09 He was talking about removing titles. I told him that would be unwise Aug 02 21:53:19 * Edward nods Aug 02 21:53:36 Very unwise. If you need a mediator, I will suffice for you. Aug 02 21:54:02 * Morgan nods Aug 02 21:54:23 Thank you. I have pointed out the advantages of having us, given that the crown prince is a friend of mine. Aug 02 21:54:39 * Edward nods Aug 02 21:55:03 Keeping you in a good position will make it better for the rest of us when Isiah inherits Aug 02 21:55:32 * Morgan nods Aug 02 21:55:59 You and Molly need to decide how urgent this all is for you Aug 02 21:56:32 It is something we are discussing. I suspect she'll be working her charm on him this evening Aug 02 21:56:40 * Edward smiles Aug 02 21:56:57 Then I expect her to have you made an Eisenfurst by lunch. Aug 02 21:57:49 * Morgan laughs Aug 02 21:57:58 I don't think I can handle any more titles Aug 02 21:58:11 * Edward nods Aug 02 21:58:34 Let her make you a Father again, that one will be enough. Aug 02 21:58:53 * Morgan nods Aug 02 21:59:20 * Edward smiles "And a grandfather, in time" Aug 02 22:00:07 * Morgan nods Aug 02 22:00:39 * Morgan fidgets, melting a little more snow over his father before sipping his drink Aug 02 22:00:49 After all, a nobleman who is not looking towards his own dynasty has forgotten the face of his Father... Aug 02 22:01:30 *Adalbrecht makes an odd gurning expression as the droplets land on his moustache Aug 02 22:02:08 * Edward nudges Morgan, chuckling "And what a face it is!" Aug 02 22:02:21 * Morgan sniggers Aug 02 22:02:53 Riefenstahl and I will stand watch the first three hours. Do you want a turn after that? Aug 02 22:03:47 * Morgan nods Aug 02 22:03:51 Aye, I will Aug 02 22:04:07 If I see anything that might be a Drachen or an Aurora, I will wake you Aug 02 22:06:11 * Morgan nods Aug 02 22:06:13 Please do Aug 02 22:06:16 * Edward stands, patting his shoulder "Goodnight, brother" Aug 02 22:06:57 * Morgan nods, grasping his forearm for a moment before rummaging in his bag for the dream catcher Aug 02 22:07:05 * Edward goes to the far side of the camp, standing with Riefenstahl and looking out into the night Aug 02 22:07:23 *he finds it along with Molly's navy handkerchief Aug 02 22:09:54 * Morgan takes a moment to hang the dreamcatcher before smelling the handkerchief Aug 02 22:12:12 *It smells very safe and familiar, she has obviously prepared it will in advance to ensure it smells of her* Aug 02 22:14:58 * Morgan draws in another breath before tucking it into his collar and whispering to no-one *please, not tonight* Aug 02 22:15:30 * The sky is cloudy, so there are no stars to help Morgan fall asleep, though the alcohol is doing that well. There is only the memory of the stars on that cold night on Morgan’s Rock as he lay beneath Molly as the effects of Maelwys’ hazelnut drink fanned the flames of her arousal to a hot pitch. With these pleasant thoughts of her, he falls Aug 02 22:15:30 asleep. Aug 02 22:16:44 **He starts to dream of what was to be that awful day of the fire. He had brought Jana in from chasing the rooster as she was ready for her nap. Where in reality she had been awake when he reached Dietlinde's workroom, in this dream she is asleep. Dietlinde is just tidying away. He tells her he will go to the market for supplies. She responds that Aug 02 22:16:45 as Jana is asleep, now would be a good time for them to talk and encourages Morgan to lay their daughter on the rug in the other room. When he returns, she has something behind her back and is smiling up at him with those lovely cornflower blue eyes. Aug 02 22:16:50 * Edward is now known as Dietlinde Aug 02 22:17:38 * Morgan watches her Aug 02 22:17:41 What've you got there? Aug 02 22:17:57 I have to tell something to you. Aug 02 22:18:05 Oh? Aug 02 22:18:22 I have been guessing so for a few weeks, but now I am sure *she is watching him with excited anticipation, her eyes bright* Aug 02 22:19:32 * Dietlinde hands him a little outfit, made with some purple satin, for a boy. "You're going to be a Father again!" Aug 02 22:19:54 * Morgan runs his hand over it Aug 02 22:19:58 You... you are sure? Aug 02 22:21:28 * Dietlinde nods "I am. It'll be April time" Aug 02 22:21:44 * Morgan draws her into an embrace Aug 02 22:23:40 That is wonderful news Aug 02 22:24:09 * Dietlinde wraps her arms at his rib height, her head reaching his shoulder rather than tucking under his chin, though why he notices this makes no sense "Are you happy? I know we hadn't really planned for this..." Aug 02 22:25:18 Of course I am Aug 02 22:25:53 I really do think it will be a boy this time Aug 02 22:26:27 * Morgan smiles slightly Aug 02 22:26:33 I seem to recall you thinking that last time Aug 02 22:27:46 * Dietlinde looks elated when she pulls back up to look at him "I have not been sick like with Jana, and everyone says boys do not drain your looks, and I do not think I look any different" Aug 02 22:29:37 * Morgan shrugs Aug 02 22:29:43 You always look perfect to me Aug 02 22:30:49 ACTION smiles, dimples appearing. There is a sudden call of "Pa!" from the other room. It's odd because Jana only calls him Vati, and nor is it her voice. It sounds urgent and frantic, but he does not twig* Aug 02 22:30:49 * Received a CTCP from Dietlinde (to #7thsea) Aug 02 22:31:03 * Dietlinde looks puzzled Aug 02 22:31:49 Who is that? Aug 02 22:32:13 I don't... I don't know Aug 02 22:32:41 * Dietlinde lets him go, walking towards the door that joins the rooms Aug 02 22:33:08 They sound upset Aug 02 22:33:35 * Morgan pulls her back Aug 02 22:33:37 I'll check Aug 02 22:33:55 * Dietlinde doesn't protest, letting him go Aug 02 22:34:05 * Morgan goes into the other room Aug 02 22:34:27 *Madchen is stood in the main room, looking around, a red-haired toddler of Jana’s size wearing a little blue dress embroidered with forget-me-nots on the hem* Aug 02 22:35:10 * Dietlinde is now known as Madchen Aug 02 22:35:53 *he still doesn't recognise her* Aug 02 22:37:27 What on Theah are you doing here? Where are your parents? Aug 02 22:37:40 * Madchen watches him Aug 02 22:37:51 Pa! Skyrleika! *this word that sounds vaguely Vesten is something she said to Molly once during a dream to make her aware it was just that and, as Molly had, he suddenly realises all this is not real. It is not really Jana and the dog by the hearth, nor Dietlinde's hand on his lower back, or her voice asking "wow, look at that hair!". The shock of Aug 02 22:37:51 reality is not deadened by throwing stones at the lakeside.* Aug 02 22:39:27 * Morgan staggers slightly, dropping to his knees Aug 02 22:40:19 *Dietlinde kneels beside him, looking at him with concern* what is wrong? Aug 02 22:41:11 * Madchen is still watching Morgan, looking very alarmed and distressed Aug 02 22:42:04 * Morgan breathes slowly before looking to Madchen Aug 02 22:42:26 *Jana starts to stir* Aug 02 22:42:26 I'm alright. Just a bit of cramp.. Would you make some coffee? Aug 02 22:43:17 *Dietlinde gets up, complying without questioning him, as she always did, and goes to the kitchen* Aug 02 22:43:51 * Madchen comes to Morgan, hugging him a moment before looking at him Aug 02 22:44:18 Pa! Danger! Aug 02 22:44:58 Where? Aug 02 22:45:35 Forest Mountains. Aug 02 22:45:53 What is it? Aug 02 22:46:00 *Jana sits up, rubbing her eyes* Vati? Aug 02 22:46:10 Bad men Aug 02 22:46:37 * Morgan nods, looking longingly at Jana before looking back to Madchen Aug 02 22:46:39 Time to go Aug 02 22:46:53 Wake up, Pa! Aug 02 22:46:59 * Morgan tries Aug 02 22:47:27 *He can't seem to manage it. Jana crawls towards him* Aug 02 22:48:06 Pa! Got wake up! Aug 02 22:48:36 * Morgan grits his teeth, trying again Aug 02 22:48:40 I'm trying Madchen Aug 02 22:48:55 Pa try more! Danger, Pa! Aug 02 22:49:32 * Morgan closes his eyes, trying to alter the dream to being in an empty house Aug 02 22:50:43 *He doesn't manage it, though the house does seem softer focused, even blurry. Jana climbs up by pulling against his shirt. She doesn't even seem to register the other little girl there* J: Vati? Cuddles. Aug 02 22:51:47 * Morgan bites his lip hard, putting Jana back on the rug Aug 02 22:53:01 * Madchen seems to move away from him a little. Meanwhile the house seems to be losing its walls and structure. But he hears Dietlinde call "Sugar?". Jana tries to get back to him Aug 02 22:53:38 * Morgan mutters to himself Aug 02 22:53:54 This isn't real. It's a dream, an echo. Get... _out_ Aug 02 22:54:03 Pa! Bad men! Aug 02 22:54:42 *he notices something is tucked in his collar. Jana starts crying* Aug 02 22:55:03 * Morgan pulls at it Aug 02 22:56:00 *It is a navy handkerchief embroidered with forget-me-nots like Madchen's dress. But in the circle where it usually says Molly, it says Iselilja. Aug 02 22:56:55 * Morgan runs his thumb across it, trying to wake again Aug 02 22:57:01 I am _not_ leaving her Aug 02 22:57:22 Pa! Smell! Aug 02 22:58:16 * Morgan puts it to his nose, breathing deeply Aug 02 22:58:45 **he wakes suddenly, his head lolling forward, chin on his chest. He feels sluggish, worse than drunk. Drugged. Aug 02 23:00:11 * Madchen is now known as narrator Aug 02 23:00:33 * Morgan rolls, sticking his face in the snow Aug 02 23:01:31 *He cannot move. He gets enough bearings to know he is sat upright, bound to a tree. He's struggling to open his eyes* Aug 02 23:02:01 * Morgan listens Aug 02 23:02:39 *he can faintly hear multiple male voices, none familiar* Aug 02 23:03:01 * Morgan tries to make out what is being said Aug 02 23:03:37 *it's a real struggle to identify any words. Then he realises it is not Eisen. Aug 02 23:04:41 *He cannot tell what the time is. He can barely even co-ordinate his own eyes. The campfire seems to be out. The words are Ussuran Aug 02 23:06:11 *he makes out six distinct voices, but the general chatter and movement makes him think it's more like twenty, easily outnumbering the groom's party of eight* Aug 02 23:08:01 M: He said we wait for the dawn. We wait for the dawn. L: They will be dead anyway, what does it matter? Aug 02 23:08:01 *his eyes start to adjust* Aug 02 23:08:51 * Morgan tries to look round Aug 02 23:09:40 **Edward, his friends, and their father all look passed out. They're certainly unconscious enough to not realise they are surrounded by mercenaries. But he cannot see Riefenstahl. Aug 02 23:10:42 M: To me, nothing. I do not care for these Eisen pigs, growing fat from the poor they exploit. But Riefenstahl has a plan, and we will stick to it or we will not get paid. Aug 02 23:11:01 * Morgan breathes slowly, trying to clear his head Aug 02 23:12:00 *His thinking starts to get a little clearer, but he feels deeply unwell, like the worst hangover he has ever had* Aug 02 23:12:47 L: Wait for dawn, then push hard to get to the castle... Aug 02 23:13:15 M: That's what I am told. Aug 02 23:13:47 * Morgan leans his head back against the tree, flexing his fingers, toes, feet Aug 02 23:14:09 *he is able to do these things* Aug 02 23:14:30 * Morgan tests his strength against the ropes Aug 02 23:15:10 *the knots are good, his strength is not quite full* Aug 02 23:15:39 * Morgan tests his coordination, checking he can focus properly Aug 02 23:16:36 *it's getting better, and soon is good enough. The mercenaries are joking around, confident the prisoners are fully bound and incapacitated Aug 02 23:17:00 * Morgan groans, rolling his head Aug 02 23:18:54 *No one is paying enough attention to notice that. They seem to be helping themselves to the left over meat and drink. He notices his wedding ring is missing* Aug 02 23:19:46 * Morgan groans louder Aug 02 23:20:18 *A man comes over, carrying a lantern* Aug 02 23:22:00 * narrator is over-confident enough to lean right over Morgan Aug 02 23:22:11 * Morgan whispers Aug 02 23:22:17 Where's my wedding ring? Aug 02 23:23:07 *the mercenary is not expecting him to talk, so jumps about four foot in the air and drops the lantern* Aug 02 23:23:30 * Morgan concentrates on the ropes behind the tree Aug 02 23:24:25 *He can feel the heat, and the weakness of the ropes Aug 02 23:25:33 * Morgan watches the man sidelong, lolling his head to the side Aug 02 23:26:48 *He picks up the lantern, going away to the other mercenaries* Aug 02 23:27:02 * Morgan pushes against the ropes Aug 02 23:27:36 *they break* Aug 02 23:28:18 * Morgan rolls, moving behind the tree before calling out in Ussuran Aug 02 23:29:19 Who took the jewellery? There's some pearl earring Aug 02 23:29:36 *He's never had sea sickness, but the mix of nausea and vertigo he gets is much like he imagines it must be for those who do suffer it* Aug 02 23:30:29 *Someone calls back "No one should have taken any except the dracheneisen ring" Aug 02 23:31:04 Well who's got that? I want to see it, not seen that stuff before Aug 02 23:31:34 Rief took it to the castle along with the Duke's pontytail Aug 02 23:31:49 * Morgan slowly touches the back of his head Aug 02 23:32:42 *where his ponytail came to his lower back, it now stops just below his shoulders* Aug 02 23:33:05 What the hells he done that for? Aug 02 23:33:38 Prove they're all dead, scare the shit out of them, I guess. Who knows why Rief does anything? Aug 02 23:34:05 What, he's just gonna go down there and say hey look, they're dead... then what? Aug 02 23:34:55 Get them to stand down their guard and bring out their valuables Aug 02 23:35:20 And we ride down and take it? Aug 02 23:35:50 Yeah, unless the plan changes Aug 02 23:36:23 And... you trust that Eisener... the one who will suddenly have his own land, not to completely shaft us Aug 02 23:36:49 *he hears someone else start to stir* Aug 02 23:37:29 He's been trustworthy before Aug 02 23:37:48 * Morgan looks round the tree at their locations Aug 02 23:38:15 Never had this big an opportunity before Aug 02 23:38:17 *none of the mercenaries are close by Aug 02 23:38:50 If he gets his own land, he can start to mine the drachenstones. He'll be rich as balls Aug 02 23:39:06 _he_ will be Aug 02 23:39:37 *about five of them are stood around the barrels Aug 02 23:40:09 He's going to pay us well, and you've had your first payment, so why are you whinging? Aug 02 23:40:44 Because... * concentrates hard on the barrels* You've stopped paying attention Aug 02 23:45:22 *The barrels explode spectacularly. The five men near them are dead in an instant. There is a sudden alarm amongst the mercenaries, who assume they are under attack from somewhere. What it also does is wakes the prisoners. Adalbrecht is the first to wake "What the fuck are you bloody idiots playing at?!" Aug 02 23:46:24 *The mercenaries are so busy trying to work out what happened that they aren't paying attention to Adalbrecht* Aug 02 23:46:52 * Morgan concentrates on some of the mens clothes, setting them alight Aug 02 23:48:34 *They don't seem to realise that this is anything other than some of them being too incautious around the fire. They try to roll in the snow to put themselves out, but strangely, this fire does not seem to be affected by the snow Aug 02 23:48:52 Ad: What the hell is going on? Who tied me up? Aug 02 23:49:08 * Morgan sets about finding his knife, going to his father, crouching beside the tree, whispering Aug 02 23:49:22 *There are groans and murmurs from the others* Aug 02 23:49:37 quiet. Under attack. Aug 02 23:49:49 * narrator is now known as Adalbrecht Aug 02 23:50:09 * Adalbrecht whispers back "oh god my head. Who?" Aug 02 23:50:44 Later *he cuts the rope before pressing the blade into his fathers hand* quietly, free the others Aug 02 23:51:09 /me tries to get up, but staggers into the tree Aug 02 23:51:37 slowly. Crawl. Aug 02 23:52:02 * Morgan moves away to a tree away from his father Aug 02 23:52:36 * Adalbrecht does so. There is every chance Adalbrecht will cut himself, but needs must. He gets to Dekker next Aug 02 23:53:00 * Morgan looks the group of mercenaries over Aug 02 23:54:40 *There are about twelve still in disarray. They are guarding the clearing, swords drawn. There's a pile of Morgan and his party's weapons near the extinguished fire, none treated respectfully or lovingly, just in a metallic heap Aug 02 23:56:21 * Morgan concentrates on a tree on the opposite side of the clearing, to keep the mercenaries distracted before scurrying over and grabbing three swords and ducking back to a hiding place Aug 02 23:57:11 *this goes very well. Dekker is just about watching Morgan, and whispers* cut me free Aug 02 23:57:28 * Morgan does so Aug 02 23:58:23 * Adalbrecht immediately crawls a little before throwing up. Thirty seconds later, he crawls back then gingerly stands. "Sword." Aug 02 23:58:30 * Adalbrecht is now known as Dekker Aug 02 23:58:46 * Morgan holds one out Aug 02 23:58:55 * Dekker thanks him Aug 02 23:58:58 Plan? Aug 02 23:59:18 Free the others, I'll distract them.