**** BEGIN LOGGING AT Thu Aug 4 08:00:07 2022 Aug 04 08:00:07 * Morgan (~mads@iMac-2.lan) has joined Aug 04 10:14:05 * Morgan has quit (Quit: This computer has gone to sleep) Aug 04 11:28:52 * Morgan (~mads@iMac-2.lan) has joined Aug 04 15:13:03 * Morgan has quit (Quit: This computer has gone to sleep) Aug 04 15:50:20 * Morgan (~mads@iMac-2.lan) has joined Aug 04 16:58:05 * Morgan has quit (Quit: This computer has gone to sleep) Aug 04 18:40:08 * Morgan (~mads@iMac-2.lan) has joined Aug 04 18:45:16 * MollyK (~igloo@31.185.35.52) has joined Aug 04 18:47:44 * MollyK is now known as Claudia Aug 04 18:48:11 * Claudia is heading towards his room as he goes through the corridor. She looks serious and grim Aug 04 18:49:10 * Morgan watches her Aug 04 18:49:36 * Claudia comes up to him, looking intently at him "hey." Aug 04 18:49:48 hey Aug 04 18:51:02 * Claudia clasps his arm Aug 04 18:51:07 How are you? Aug 04 18:51:19 * Morgan smiles weakly Aug 04 18:51:26 I'm physically fine Aug 04 18:51:42 * Claudia nods solemnly Aug 04 18:51:47 Yeah. Aug 04 18:53:10 You? Aug 04 18:53:51 Fine. I suppose I came to say I probably get some of what is going on with you right now. Aug 04 18:54:43 How do you mean? Aug 04 18:56:01 * Claudia shrugs Aug 04 18:56:36 When someone does something to you against your will, when you can't fight back... Aug 04 18:57:02 * Morgan nods Aug 04 18:57:11 that... hadn't really hit me yet. Aug 04 18:57:40 You've been there for me, and it has helped a lot. I am here for you. Aug 04 18:57:56 * Morgan nods, clasping her arm Aug 04 18:59:20 Right now I'm more... upset at him taking my hair Aug 04 19:00:02 That's what I meant Aug 04 19:00:20 * Morgan nods Aug 04 19:00:31 It sounds vain, but its really not Aug 04 19:01:41 Wouldn't matter if it was just vanity. It's _your_ body. Aug 04 19:02:18 * Morgan nods Aug 04 19:02:23 I wish he was still alive Aug 04 19:02:31 * Claudia nods Aug 04 19:02:48 That doesn't go away, no matter what you do to them. Aug 04 19:03:47 * Morgan nods, scowling before squeezing his eyes shut Aug 04 19:07:27 * Claudia hugs him Aug 04 19:08:11 * Morgan leans against her, sobbing quietly Aug 04 19:09:18 * Claudia is just present, not trying to soothe or perk him up, just solid, steady Aug 04 19:09:46 * Morgan stops after a couple of minutes, standing straighter Aug 04 19:11:03 * Claudia lets go Aug 04 19:11:29 Where are you headed? Aug 04 19:12:43 To Edward. Times getting close Aug 04 19:12:50 * Claudia nods Aug 04 19:12:58 I'll walk with you Aug 04 19:13:08 * Morgan scratches under the edge of the bandage, nodding, starting to move in that direction Aug 04 19:13:30 Wanna give me the very condensed version? Aug 04 19:14:57 Murderous cousin, mercenaries that were actually werewolves... *he stops, looking at her* I burned them, some with fire, some... inside. Aug 04 19:17:57 * Claudia nods Aug 04 19:18:01 And survived. Aug 04 19:18:47 * Morgan nods, moving again Aug 04 19:19:12 I am... ambivalent to the suffering they experienced. Aug 04 19:19:19 Good. Aug 04 19:19:59 Rief came back, locked everyone down... eventually turned werewolf, we killed him. He didn't suffer enough. Aug 04 19:20:17 Unfortunate, but it happens. Aug 04 19:20:29 I suspect it would never have been enough Aug 04 19:20:35 * Claudia nods Aug 04 19:20:40 Utterly. Aug 04 19:21:15 * Morgan nods Aug 04 19:21:24 I made a guard wet himself Aug 04 19:30:11 * Claudia laughs Aug 04 19:30:13 How? Aug 04 19:31:23 I told him, in a whisper, if he didn't get out of my way, I'd gut him, use his entrails to strangle his comrades, make his family destitute and send them the flayed skin from each of their bodies Aug 04 19:32:19 * Claudia laughs Aug 04 19:32:21 Nice. Aug 04 19:32:47 * Morgan nods Aug 04 19:35:36 It did the job Aug 04 19:36:53 * Claudia nods Aug 04 19:37:18 How was the night otherwise? Aug 04 19:38:15 Apart from the death, mayhem and betrayal... it was very nice Aug 04 19:39:25 * Claudia nods Aug 04 19:43:37 Who is the very blonde one of Edward's friends? *the description fits DeeDee best* Aug 04 19:44:21 Probably... DeeDee Aug 04 19:44:56 Well, if he looks at me again like he would prostrate himself on the ground and worship me, I am going to kick him in the head. Aug 04 19:46:11 Give him a break... he's a decent man, and very smart... break his arm instead. Besides, whether you like it or not, you're not exactly a heffer Aug 04 19:47:04 Yes, well, decent he may be, smart he is not. He should stay away from me before I actually do cave his face in. Aug 04 19:48:07 * Claudia looks very grumpy now Aug 04 19:48:55 Want me to deal with it? Aug 04 19:49:29 * Claudia shrugs Aug 04 19:50:26 He hasn't _done_ anything, I suppose. Just look at me. But it irks me. His stupid, idolising face! Aug 04 19:52:17 Oh, he looks at everyone like that Aug 04 19:52:35 Good. Aug 04 19:53:58 Anything you want me doing? I don't fancy another Koertig wedding. Aug 04 19:55:22 * Morgan nods Aug 04 19:55:36 Start ferreting among the guards... I want to know if any of them were in league with Rief Aug 04 19:57:34 * Claudia nods, getting to Edward's door Aug 04 19:57:38 See you later Aug 04 19:59:22 * Morgan nods, thanking her Aug 04 20:00:16 * Claudia nods, leaving Aug 04 20:02:03 * Morgan knocks on Edwards door Aug 04 20:03:02 * Claudia is now known as Edward Aug 04 20:03:06 Come in Aug 04 20:04:38 * Morgan pushes his way into the room Aug 04 20:06:33 * Edward is stood by the window, drinking something. Morgan recognises the smell of Molly's hangover remedy. He's in his uniform minus the jacket Aug 04 20:07:38 I'd say you look handsome, if it weren't the wrong branch of the military Aug 04 20:07:59 * Edward smiles vaguely Aug 04 20:08:03 Thank you Aug 04 20:08:47 How are you doing? Aug 04 20:09:17 Taxed. Aug 04 20:09:49 * Morgan nods Aug 04 20:11:09 * Edward offers him some of the tea Aug 04 20:11:53 * Morgan goes to pour it Aug 04 20:12:52 * Edward sighs heavily Aug 04 20:12:59 His Grace has been Aug 04 20:13:42 * Morgan watches Edward Aug 04 20:13:43 right... Aug 04 20:15:44 He and the others have a plan in mind for explaining Rief's death Aug 04 20:16:22 Ah, politics Aug 04 20:18:29 * Edward nods Aug 04 20:18:38 It's a sound plan... Aug 04 20:20:20 but... Aug 04 20:21:49 But I keep asking myself "would Morgan lie like this to his wife?" Aug 04 20:22:53 * Morgan sits down, sipping his tea Aug 04 20:24:19 I think... the real question is what difference is there between Molly and Mina... Aug 04 20:24:50 * Edward stays standing Aug 04 20:24:59 More generally, I mean Aug 04 20:26:48 I can see arguments for both sides Aug 04 20:27:01 * Edward nods, sipping the tea Aug 04 20:27:54 I want to get this right. I have fucked up so much, if I can just steer the ship into port right this time, maybe she will be able to have more faith in my leadership Aug 04 20:28:28 * Morgan nods Aug 04 20:28:57 Once your friends get a few drinks in them, could they be trusted to not let slip Rief's involvement? Aug 04 20:29:22 It is not that. It is not because I could get caught out. Aug 04 20:30:38 How could you look her in the face, knowing you were lying to her... Aug 04 20:32:16 * Edward nods Aug 04 20:32:54 How would I deserve her if after everything she has borne, and everything she has forgiven, I would lie to her again? Aug 04 20:33:23 On the other hand, given what she has lost already, what she's probably to lose soon... is it a mercy to let her believe her cousin was not a villain... Aug 04 20:34:52 * Edward sighs Aug 04 20:35:08 Tell me marriage will not always be this complicated! Aug 04 20:36:15 Now you wish me to lie to you? Aug 04 20:36:28 * Edward laughs Aug 04 20:36:40 What the hell do I do? Aug 04 20:39:17 Could she handle the truth, and the necessity for her to continue the lie? Aug 04 20:40:04 I don't know. She has handled the truth about the fire and Florrie... Aug 04 20:41:13 But is this too much too soon... Aug 04 20:43:44 * Edward sits on the floor, back to the wall Aug 04 20:44:26 It is now or never. If I lie today, I can never tell her the truth without ruining her memories of our wedding day. Aug 04 20:45:46 Are you willing to lie to her, not just today, but for the rest of your lives? Aug 04 20:47:38 * Edward shakes his head "I do not want to be a husband who lies" Aug 04 20:49:24 * Morgan sips his tea Aug 04 20:51:09 Dekker suggested waiting to tell her any version until after the ceremony Aug 04 20:53:04 I can see the sense in that. Perhaps she will be too focussed to notice his absence Aug 04 20:54:41 And if she notices half way through? Or when I have to tell her that I knew hours before and did not tell her? Aug 04 20:55:53 It sounds to me that the decision has already been made Aug 04 20:57:03 Goddammit Morgan, Witts said to only take advice from men whose marriage I admire. Tell me what you would do, with your wives, if you were marrying Mina? Aug 04 20:59:29 * Edward looks frustrated and tense Aug 04 20:59:47 Well... you can't talk to her, not before the wedding Aug 04 21:01:53 I cannot _see_ her. Maybe the Colonel's wife was on to something with being blindfolded Aug 04 21:02:40 You would not allow someone else to tell her? Aug 04 21:04:28 * Edward looks at him "Would _you_?" Aug 04 21:05:15 [We have a problem] Aug 04 21:05:22 * Morgan sips his tea Aug 04 21:06:28 [what is it?] Aug 04 21:07:39 [There is a plan to paint Rief as an innocent victim. Edward is unwilling to lie to Mina, or to be part of that lie.] Aug 04 21:08:29 [Ah.] Aug 04 21:09:06 [He wants to tell Mina the pertinent parts. He does not want to start his married life with a lie] Aug 04 21:09:56 [And if you tell him differently he will feel unsound in his own instincts?] Aug 04 21:10:44 [He's asked what I would do. Frankly, I agree with him] Aug 04 21:10:46 * Edward is still watching Morgan for an answer "Stop wool gathering, this is important!" Aug 04 21:11:21 You would have me give an answer to something so important without fully considering it, and its ramifications? Aug 04 21:11:30 [Then that is what you should say.] Aug 04 21:11:57 [Then we need to get him in a room with Mina. Before the wedding. He is talking about a blindfold, since he mustn't see her] Aug 04 21:12:20 * Edward looks embarrassed "My apologies. I am on edge and snappy" Aug 04 21:13:26 [Alright, give me five minutes] Aug 04 21:13:34 * Morgan smiles slightly Aug 04 21:13:38 I hadn't noticed Aug 04 21:13:42 *There's a knock at the door* Aug 04 21:13:47 [to do what, my love?] Aug 04 21:14:44 [stop him from seeing me in just that new white negligee I promised to wear for you beneath my dress] Aug 04 21:14:51 Come in Aug 04 21:15:10 [understood. Let me know when you're ready] Aug 04 21:15:28 *A maid brings in a tray. Even under the metal cover, he can smell bacon, sausages and eggs* Aug 04 21:16:02 M: I am so sorry it is so late, my Lords Aug 04 21:16:08 You, young miss, have wonderful timing, and I can't tell you how pleased I am to see you and, more accurately, that tray. Aug 04 21:17:11 *she blushes, curtsying before she looks to Edward to dismiss her* Aug 04 21:18:03 Yes... umm... pass on my thanks and appreciation to the kitchen staff for all the hard work I am sure they are doing today. It will be recognised. Aug 04 21:18:23 *she smiles, going when he dismisses her* Aug 04 21:19:22 * Edward comes to the tray, lifting the cover and inhaling deeply "Molly's herbs work wonders, I am famished now" Aug 04 21:19:35 * Morgan nods Aug 04 21:20:12 So am I. She sent me for breakfast after the body was sorted... I got as far as sitting down before mother told me to wash and get changed Aug 04 21:20:31 * Edward laughs, dividing the food fairly Aug 04 21:20:44 That is direct of Mother, you must have stunk, Aug 04 21:24:33 Well, what she said was that she would make sure there is warm food left for me once I had gotten changed Aug 04 21:26:11 * Edward nods Aug 04 21:26:18 Moderately stinky then Aug 04 21:26:23 probably Aug 04 21:26:32 * Edward starts eating Aug 04 21:27:13 No one smells good after drinking too much, rolling with dogs, and bleeding everywhere Aug 04 21:27:43 There was no bleeding until we got back here Aug 04 21:28:16 * Morgan mutters Aug 04 21:28:22 Unlike the journey here Aug 04 21:30:00 * Edward takes the fork away from his mouth Aug 04 21:30:15 On that topic... should Molly not be in bed? Aug 04 21:31:16 First... don't _ever_ suggest that to her... anyone who isn't lucky enough to grow up in an environment like ours simply has to work and get on with it when _that_ happens... second... it was a deception to be allowed out of her room Aug 04 21:31:53 * Edward nods Aug 04 21:32:01 I had never considered that Aug 04 21:32:50 * Edward frowns, confused "Port doesn't spread of nightgowns like that." Aug 04 21:33:59 Oh it was blood, just not... that. Aug 04 21:35:16 Where the hell did she get blood from in Mi-... oh. Oh damn. Aug 04 21:35:45 * Morgan laughs hard Aug 04 21:35:56 No, no... Aug 04 21:36:20 * Edward frowns "I know you _can_ do it then. I just won't" Aug 04 21:37:04 Stop fretting... Molly cut herself to get it Aug 04 21:38:01 She cut herself _there_ and you are not concerned?! Aug 04 21:38:23 My god, how can you be so dense? Aug 04 21:38:58 Then tell me what happened and why you do not mind your wife cutting herself Aug 04 21:40:18 Probably she cut her hand and pressed it to the fabric in the appropriate place... it would've spread downwards. And I hate it, but she is safe, Mina is safe, and she had backup from HeinzHarold and Claudia, so I fully understand why she did it Aug 04 21:41:31 * Edward nods, eating again Aug 04 21:42:08 * Morgan stuffs some bacon in his mouth, chewing it before speaking again Aug 04 21:42:13 You need to tell her. Aug 04 21:42:57 * Edward nods Aug 04 21:43:03 Yes. But why? Aug 04 21:43:16 You know why. Aug 04 21:44:36 Because you would tell Mina? Aug 04 21:45:09 * Morgan snorts Aug 04 21:45:43 You would not do something just because I would. You would do it because it is the right thing to do, because... your first act as her husband should not be a lie. Aug 04 21:45:54 * Edward nods Aug 04 21:45:58 Thank you. Aug 04 21:46:15 * Morgan inclines his head slightly Aug 04 21:46:32 I would still leave the whole werewolf thing out though... Aug 04 21:46:49 Then why did I kill him? Aug 04 21:47:42 * Edward eats more, hurriedly Aug 04 21:48:18 Because he was trying to kill me, to make his escape. I was injured, and you defended me against the man who had already sought to kill us all. The man I suspect would've had her killed if I had not turned up, though _that_ can stay unknown unless necessary Aug 04 21:48:37 That is a lie. Aug 04 21:48:45 Is it? Aug 04 21:49:01 I did not defend you against a man. Aug 04 21:49:39 Someone, then. You sought to save my life, and that was the outcome. Aug 04 21:49:45 No. Aug 04 21:49:52 * Morgan looks at Edward Aug 04 21:50:04 * Edward looks back at him Aug 04 21:50:43 This place is worse than Sudlachenburg for their superstitions... You tell her he was some shapeshifting creature, she'll lose her mind. Aug 04 21:52:57 There are Ussurans just over the mountains from our Freiarrdom who can turn into werewolves. We met at least thirteen this morning. When is a good time for her to find out about them, Morgan? Is it today, when I can assure her I will protect her at all costs, or when she watches a person's bones break and hair sprout from their warped bodies in her Aug 04 21:52:58 own town? Aug 04 21:53:40 * Morgan looks at him calmly Aug 04 21:53:54 Then why ask my advice? You have already decided on your course Aug 04 21:54:25 You helped me find that course. No lies. Aug 04 21:54:44 * Morgan studies him for a moment Aug 04 21:55:02 * Edward looks surprisingly calm Aug 04 21:55:24 If I gave you a barrel of brandy and told you to drink it in one sitting, no matter how sick I knew you would be... would that be reasonable? Or would it be better to give you some each day? Aug 04 21:56:14 Do you rip off that bandage and endure briefly, or peel it so it hurts over and over? Aug 04 21:56:44 * Morgan frowns, clearly troubled Aug 04 21:57:22 Look, none of this is on you. She is my wife, this is my choice. You have only confirmed what my instincts told me. Aug 04 21:58:02 I am concerned you will overwhelm her. Aug 04 21:59:43 As am I. But I will steer her through this time. And you are here, and Molly. If I wait, if Hapsburg dies and I have dragged this out, then how much worse for her when she cannot trust me to be completely honest now? Aug 04 22:00:27 Then... you should let me explain about the magic. Aug 04 22:00:50 * Edward considers this a moment Aug 04 22:00:55 Yes, I agree. Aug 04 22:01:10 * Morgan looks surprised Aug 04 22:01:13 What? Aug 04 22:01:59 Florrie has magic. I gave that to her. It could happen again. Aug 04 22:02:38 You... want me to explain Florries magic... and mine? Aug 04 22:02:47 [I am ready] Aug 04 22:03:13 _We_ will. Together. Side by side. Aug 04 22:03:35 And if she tells father? Tells the Eisenfurst? Aug 04 22:04:11 You do not understand Mina. She would never, ever betray her husband's confidence. Aug 04 22:04:26 Forgive me, but you are not her husband yet Aug 04 22:05:24 Don't be pedantic. I was her husband in all but a ceremony and a bedding six years ago. Promises were made. Aug 04 22:06:02 I wasn't being pedantic. And you're right, I don't understand her... I can't get a bloody read on her. Aug 04 22:06:31 Because she is not ready to let you in completely yet. Aug 04 22:06:39 [We won't be long, we're settling some details] Aug 04 22:06:53 [Alright, my love] Aug 04 22:07:24 And you think she will once she knows... this? Aug 04 22:08:05 * Edward looks at him Aug 04 22:08:19 Are you sure you wish to ask this? Aug 04 22:08:51 If I am to be laid bare to her, then yes, I think I should know, don't you? Aug 04 22:09:11 * Edward sets down his fork, watching Morgan Aug 04 22:13:31 Your first marriage set Mina and I apart, and caused her a great deal of heartache and pain when I was unable to propose, and my attendance upon her was sporadic. The following consequences, which were in my opinion from my own flaws, led to my banishment by her father, and her enduring three years of thinking I had just tired of her. It led to Aug 04 22:13:32 Florrie. I do not blame you, and she does not blame you, but if she can accept your role in this as she has accepted mine, and Father's, she can accept this too. Aug 04 22:15:06 * Morgan closes his eyes, rubbing at them Aug 04 22:15:55 I am sorry, brother. I have no wish to hurt you, especially today, but you asked me, and I have answered you honestly. Aug 04 22:16:20 * Morgan sighs, opening his eyes, looking at Edward Aug 04 22:17:17 Your conviction in this... it makes me feel guilty. Aug 04 22:17:24 Why? Aug 04 22:18:07 Because what you know... is just the tip of the iceberg, things that no-one but Molly and I know. Aug 04 22:18:51 And for today, I do not need to know. If I do not know, I am not bound by my honour to tell her. Aug 04 22:19:45 I do not like keeping things from you. You know that? Aug 04 22:20:21 I do. In the days ahead, you will not have to. Today, I request of you that you tell me no more. Aug 04 22:21:16 * Morgan rubs his face, nodding Aug 04 22:21:23 Ignore me, I'm just emotional Aug 04 22:21:43 It has been a rough morning Aug 04 22:21:59 * Morgan nods slightly Aug 04 22:22:23 Stupid as it sounds... the hair has effected me more than you'd imagine Aug 04 22:22:33 * Edward looks surprised Aug 04 22:23:04 I was going to say I actually think it suits you. I would even consider shorter, more like Heinzharold's. Aug 04 22:23:45 * Morgan blinks slowly Aug 04 22:24:25 Its not the look... its... I have not cut my hair in _years_. Jana used to pull herself to standing using it. Aug 04 22:25:11 * Edward nods. His expression is quite calm and neutral, his micro-expression shows excruciating guilt Aug 04 22:25:31 * Morgan stands, moving to him to hug him tightly Aug 04 22:26:02 * Edward hugs him back, but it is more a giving than a receiving Aug 04 22:26:46 We're done with that Edward. Aug 04 22:26:58 * Edward sighs Aug 04 22:27:07 What will you do with it? Aug 04 22:27:32 I don't know. I'm going to wait until I don't feel so... *he sighs* violated I suppose. Aug 04 22:27:41 * Edward nods Aug 04 22:27:45 Wise. Aug 04 22:27:56 * Morgan lets go, smiling Aug 04 22:28:06 Contrary to common opinion, I'm neither mad nor stupid Aug 04 22:28:06 * Edward looks serious Aug 04 22:28:12 I know. Aug 04 22:28:39 Come on, lets get this done so she has time to adjust before the ceremony Aug 04 22:29:34 I think I will send for the ceremony to be pushed back. Let them eat the lunch, we will have a romantic ceremony at sunset. Aug 04 22:30:19 Are you going to explain to the Eisenfurst, or do it and hope he isn't too angry? Aug 04 22:33:00 He seems inclined to treat us kindly today. We have just saved his life. Aug 04 22:35:52 I'm not so sure about that... it'd make more sense to keep him onside, manipulate him... Aug 04 22:36:08 * Edward looks at Morgan with a deep frown Aug 04 22:36:23 Manipulate the Eisenfurst... Aug 04 22:36:37 Not us, you plum, Rief. Aug 04 22:37:04 * Edward flicks a piece of sausage at Morgan's face Aug 04 22:37:26 * Morgan catches it, chewing on it as he talks Aug 04 22:37:49 * Edward mutters "fucking show-off" Aug 04 22:38:21 Isiah wouldn't be manipulated, but Faulk... he has enough criticism from his peers... apparently he was absolutely convinced by Rief's story of an incursion... Aug 04 22:38:32 * Edward nods Aug 04 22:38:56 It was a good scheme... just not a good enough scheme to get past Molly and Heinzharold. Aug 04 22:39:06 * Morgan nods Aug 04 22:39:30 HeinzHarold described him as 'off' but couldn't say why Aug 04 22:39:35 Which is surprising, because Heinzharold is not known for his sharp cognition. Aug 04 22:39:59 * Morgan looks at Edward seriously Aug 04 22:40:18 A small secret, of no consequence... you underestimate him Aug 04 22:48:00 Only in his intelligence then. He is as attractive as the men counted very handsome at Court. Not quite as handsome as Potts or Grendlik mind you Aug 04 22:48:16 * Morgan smiles Aug 04 22:48:26 Take notice of that a lot do you Aug 04 22:48:51 I talk to women at great length. I know what they like. Aug 04 22:50:21 * Morgan nods Aug 04 22:50:42 Hurry up, if you're postponing the ceremony, I want to get changed Aug 04 22:51:25 You want to get back in to breeches? Aug 04 22:52:14 No, I was thinking mans clothing, not peacocks fancy dress Aug 04 22:53:42 Did you not see Heinzharold in them this morning? He looked like a man. *he smirks, getting some paper* Perhaps it is a lack of manliness on your part that makes you reluctant to wear them? Aug 04 22:55:01 Perhaps I don't wish to make you feel inadequate Aug 04 22:55:25 * Morgan runs his hand through his hair Aug 04 22:55:35 I could go all Vesten... Aug 04 22:56:55 * Edward looks at him, nodding "With shaved sides and braids on top, like the Skomi tribe? It would suit you. But it would not suit a Duke" Aug 04 22:57:27 Fashions change... I could be a trailblazer Aug 04 22:58:22 * Edward nods Aug 04 22:59:06 I suppose you could try it for the next few months. You will not be at Court until April, and I am sure the ladies in Capperlucia will not mind Aug 04 23:00:17 I'll be a second rate person there, I doubt they'll care... I'm thinking of introducing Molly's cousin to Isiah Fischler... he's looking for a wife who isn't... well, going to kill him I suppose Aug 04 23:01:17 * Edward nods "That would be beneficial for our family" Aug 04 23:04:11 * Morgan nods Aug 04 23:04:23 I might let you do that Aug 04 23:06:21 Some advice? Aug 04 23:06:39 * Morgan nods Aug 04 23:06:40 Go on Aug 04 23:09:27 Keep her out of Court in Freiburg, well away from anyone who might look to her as a mistress, like the Eisenfurst, and away from any young Freiarr she might develop feelings for. Bring her out at Court in _Fischler_ when you come home, surrounded and protected by the watchful eyes of her ducal kin, as well as her wider noble family. Make her Aug 04 23:09:27 something special, something rare, pure, and hard to win by Isiah. In essence, the exact opposite of the women he has been burned by. Aug 04 23:10:22 You're very good at this... you'd be much better suited to it all than I am Aug 04 23:13:24 I learned to serve my family in the way I felt would be most useful, that is all Aug 04 23:13:40 * Morgan nods, frowning Aug 04 23:16:25 I say this with the greatest of love, my brother, but you were never ruthless and scheming. You were charming at Court, and well-liked. But Court is gritty, and full of political machinations. I could see even from before I joined the Academy that I could use my nature that runs more like Father's and Grandfather's to serve this way. Aug 04 23:17:23 * Morgan draws in a deep breath, rolling his neck Aug 04 23:17:59 It'll change one day Aug 04 23:18:19 Only if we have the power to change it. Aug 04 23:18:58 A small brook can erode mountains in time Aug 04 23:20:17 And a flood will achieve that much quicker. Aug 04 23:21:01 Problem with floods is people always try to build things back the way they were. Aug 04 23:21:58 And you want it all torn down, not just improved? Aug 04 23:22:15 * Morgan opens one eye Aug 04 23:22:24 Are we still talking politics, or building? Aug 04 23:23:42 Politics. Nobility. Aug 04 23:24:14 * Morgan nods, closing his eye again Aug 04 23:24:24 [Liebes herz, are you coming?] Aug 04 23:25:07 Thats the beauty of a brook changing the mountains... its just accepted that these changes happen, most people don't remember a time before it was this way Aug 04 23:25:17 [No, its just the way I'm standing] Aug 04 23:25:34 [I... uhh....] Aug 04 23:25:48 * Edward nods a little Aug 04 23:25:53 [we'll be along shortly. Edward is pontificating on something] Aug 04 23:26:12 [Uhh... alright] Aug 04 23:26:46 * Edward is busy writing now Aug 04 23:26:59 I would like your opinion on something... Aug 04 23:27:04 Yes? Aug 04 23:27:50 The Eisenfurst asked me if I had any idea what your friends... our friends would like as recognition of their actions... I could only think of one Aug 04 23:27:57 [yes, sorry liebling. You will understand why your comment has aroused me when I explain last night's dream later] Aug 04 23:28:11 * Edward is watching him thoughtfully Aug 04 23:28:37 He did tell me he wants us all to think, but not share our ideas Aug 04 23:29:01 I see. You wish me to keep what I said to myself? Aug 04 23:29:18 That is your decision. I admit I am curious Aug 04 23:29:19 [I shall look forward to it] Aug 04 23:29:40 [and I] Aug 04 23:30:03 I explained to him Zench's situation with regards to Heidi Aug 04 23:30:13 * Edward nods, sighing Aug 04 23:30:55 I feel for him. His family are pushing him hard to pick a bride Aug 04 23:31:07 * Morgan nods Aug 04 23:31:54 He told me. The Eisenfurst is going to think on a way to remedy the situation, if he can. Aug 04 23:32:08 Heidi is about as far from noble as you can get, and they will demand a noble girl. Aug 04 23:32:29 I know. He has the power to do that. Aug 04 23:32:48 * Edward smiles slightly "I am not sure if she is even housebroken she is so feral" Aug 04 23:33:34 If I thought it'd actually work, I'd adopt her, but even I'm not that naive. Aug 04 23:33:54 * Edward laughs Aug 04 23:34:05 No, I do not see that working Aug 04 23:34:23 No. Come on, lets not keep them waiting. Aug 04 23:35:45 * Edward nods "After you. I suspect I may regret rescheduling for later once I have a certain marital duty to perform, but needs must" Aug 04 23:36:18 * Morgan nods, heading out of the door Aug 04 23:36:31 * Edward follows along Aug 04 23:36:47 Did he ask anything else, the Eisenfurst? Aug 04 23:36:57 No. Should he have? Aug 04 23:37:14 * Morgan shrugs noncommittally Aug 04 23:37:25 * Edward watches him Aug 04 23:38:11 If he does, I will not weigh in on it. Your arrangement with him about Capperlucia is yours to manage Aug 04 23:38:52 * Morgan laughs Aug 04 23:39:12 Thank you for your support... Molly and I need to discuss that. Aug 04 23:39:41 And you still wish to discuss what happened to the mercenaries? Aug 04 23:40:05 Which part? Aug 04 23:40:23 What happened to them... Aug 04 23:40:40 * Morgan slows, sighing Aug 04 23:41:02 I... don't think I need to. Aug 04 23:41:13 * Edward nods Aug 04 23:41:33 You will come to me if you change your mind? Aug 04 23:41:44 * Morgan nods, picking up his pace again Aug 04 23:41:50 Once you are not... occupied. Aug 04 23:42:01 * Edward nods Aug 04 23:42:19 I will make time. It is important. Aug 04 23:42:46 Oh, you need to suffice again tonight Aug 04 23:42:55 Do what? Aug 04 23:44:03 The Appointed Person has to confirm that I have cut Mina's dress properly. It is symbolic of us consummating the union, and that has to be checked, as with the cloaking in the bundling Aug 04 23:44:34 * Morgan nods, looking serious Aug 04 23:44:59 I have been rather preoccupied with _my_ role in that, I had forgotten about yours. Aug 04 23:45:29 How does it have to be cut? Aug 04 23:45:46 All the way, with a knife Aug 04 23:46:22 Down the back? Aug 04 23:46:41 * Edward shakes his head "I am afraid not" Aug 04 23:47:21 Not sure my wife would appreciate the chance of me seeing another mans wife's bubbies Aug 04 23:47:47 I am su-... what? Aug 04 23:48:16 * Morgan just keeps moving Aug 04 23:48:20 You were saying... Aug 04 23:49:09 Oh no you don't! Who the hell calls them that? It's the sort of thing the new boys at the Academy used to say Aug 04 23:49:31 HeinzHarold... mostly because it annoys the shit out of Claudia Aug 04 23:50:00 * Edward shakes his head a moment Aug 04 23:50:25 Anyway, I am sure Molly will understand. It will be cut, not parted Aug 04 23:50:58 Down the front, bodice to hem Aug 04 23:52:23 Yes. You understand now why Hapsburg had to approve who would be the Appointed Person? It is not just checking I have followed the process and intimidating me at the bundling, it is symbolically witnessing the deflowering of his daughter. It is an honoured, trusted role. Aug 04 23:53:05 * Morgan nods Aug 04 23:53:09 alright Aug 04 23:53:19 * Edward nods a little Aug 04 23:53:55 I want you to understand that. I chose _you_. And I have no regrets in that at all. Aug 04 23:54:38 * Morgan nods Aug 04 23:54:41 I understand Aug 04 23:55:03 * Edward nods, spotting a servant and asking for the note to go to Faulk Aug 04 23:55:43 * Edward continues on towards Mina's room. The glass and rug are gone. Aug 04 23:56:05 * Morgan mutters quietly Aug 04 23:56:06 Told you Aug 04 23:56:16 Efficient Aug 04 23:57:38 * Morgan nods Aug 04 23:59:18 * Edward knocks on the door when they get there, and Molly comes out, taking a black satin sash from her dress. The dress is new, it's just the right shade of pink, decorated with golden trimming, a very Eisen style, though the neckline is not that high. Her hair is already done, complete with pink roses. Aug 04 23:59:45 * Edward watches Morgan's reaction