**** BEGIN LOGGING AT Sun Aug 7 00:29:30 2022 Aug 07 00:29:30 * Edward has quit (Read error: EOF from client) Aug 07 11:16:56 * Morgan (~mads@192.168.1.117) has joined Aug 07 11:17:34 * Morgan has quit (Quit: This computer has gone to sleep) Aug 07 17:38:48 * Morgan (~mads@192.168.1.117) has joined Aug 07 17:47:13 * MollyK (~igloo@31.185.35.52) has joined Aug 07 17:48:26 **Everyone is looking expectantly when he walks back in** Aug 07 17:49:29 * Morgan looks at them calmly Aug 07 17:49:32 Yes? Aug 07 17:50:38 *Joseff comes to Morgan* I think everyone is waiting for the confirmation that they are fully wed, Morgan Aug 07 17:52:27 I know, I'm just being awkward. The dress has been cut. Aug 07 17:54:04 *There is a big cheer at this, and glasses chinked together. Joseff smiles at Morgan* I wasn't sold on this entirely back in August, but Graben thanks you for you perseverance. Aug 07 17:54:10 * MollyK is now known as Joseff Aug 07 17:55:14 * Morgan nods Aug 07 17:55:20 I think it was the right decision Aug 07 17:56:03 * Joseff nods Aug 07 17:56:32 As do I, now. *He hands Morgan an acorn* Aug 07 17:56:47 * Morgan looks at it, then looks to Joseff Aug 07 17:56:50 What's this? Aug 07 17:59:45 The appointed person is paid with an acorn. Tomorrow we plant it in the garden, and when the time comes for Edward to choose an appointed person for his own daughter, that is the tree it will come from. This came from the tree my brother planted the day after I married Maria. Aug 07 18:00:49 * Morgan smiles slightly, tucking it away in a pocket Aug 07 18:05:37 Enjoy your evening Aug 07 18:06:14 * Morgan nods Aug 07 18:06:21 And you, Joseff Aug 07 18:07:33 **The party is split between the ballroom and the dining hall next door. He can see Molly with Stef, Fuchs and the Eisenfurst. Varick is with Inga, HH and his parents, Jarvie, Christopher and Grendlik. Edward's friends are altogether too. Several nobles want to congratulate him on Edward's behalf, so he has to do that for ten minutes first. He has Aug 07 18:07:33 to talk quite loud. He's then free to go where he wants. Aug 07 18:08:17 * Morgan wanders over to his father Aug 07 18:08:58 * Joseff is now known as Adalbrecht Aug 07 18:09:19 * Adalbrecht looks happy. Varick hugs Morgan's legs Aug 07 18:09:56 * Morgan kneels down, hugging the boy before picking him up, sitting him on Morgan's hip Aug 07 18:11:24 *Varick rests his head on Morgan's shoulder* Aug 07 18:12:28 How was Edward? Aug 07 18:14:54 Nervous mostly Aug 07 18:15:26 * Adalbrecht nods "I do not know a man who wasn't" Aug 07 18:15:58 *Jarvie and Grendlik glance at each other briefly, too brief for Adal to notice* Aug 07 18:17:25 * Morgan nods, looking round Aug 07 18:17:29 Verity: It is an important moment in a couples' lives Aug 07 18:18:11 *Everyone looks quite relaxed. If the news has spread of Rief's death it does not seem like anyone is troubled by it* Aug 07 18:19:22 * Morgan nods Aug 07 18:19:33 They have waited a long time Aug 07 18:23:51 *everyone agrees that it is a good match, and that Graben is beautiful. They go and get some food, and again Morgan has to socialise. He sees Molly confidently doing likewise. She seems to be on a mission to personally speak to all of the nobles. The dancing starts a little while later. At a normal wedding the bride and groom would lead the Aug 07 18:23:51 dancing. He is stood with Edward's friends, and when Witts mentions this Potts points out that they are probably dancing the marital waltz instead. Aug 07 18:24:33 * Morgan glances at him Aug 07 18:25:14 *he doesn't notice* Aug 07 18:26:19 *Witts asks Morgan if he will be dancing with his wife* Aug 07 18:26:35 * Morgan stares at him, unblinking Aug 07 18:26:38 The waltzes, aye Aug 07 18:27:28 W: Then might I please ask permission to lead her out for one of the minuets? Aug 07 18:27:28 Hug Aug 07 18:28:21 * Morgan nods Aug 07 18:28:23 I reckon so Aug 07 18:30:19 *he thanks Morgan, looking for her. She is laughing with Dekker and Diana. Diana has made an effort, and does not look out of place. It's more the way that she watches the noble party going on that makes her seem like an outsider. Aug 07 18:31:29 * Morgan walks over to them Aug 07 18:31:40 * Adalbrecht is now known as Molly Aug 07 18:31:50 * Molly smiles warmly at him Aug 07 18:31:56 Liebes herz... Aug 07 18:32:02 blossom Aug 07 18:32:38 *Dekker and Diana both call him "Your Excellency" When they acknowledge him Aug 07 18:33:36 [I hope Edward appreciates how much I dislike doing this] Aug 07 18:33:42 * Morgan looks at Dekker Aug 07 18:33:57 I was wondering if you would permit me to dance with your wife Aug 07 18:36:27 *Dekker nods* Yes, your Excellency. *Diana looks surprised* You want to dance with me?! Aug 07 18:36:37 [no, but he's going to] Aug 07 18:36:54 Unless you do not wish to Aug 07 18:37:24 *she shakes her head rapidly* no, I would be honoured to, your Excellency Aug 07 18:37:32 * Morgan smiles slightly Aug 07 18:37:36 I think the honour is mine Aug 07 18:37:40 * Morgan offers his arm Aug 07 18:39:08 *Diana looks all giddy, but follows his lead. Dekker says to Morgan* Might _I_ dance with your Duchess? Aug 07 18:40:20 I have no objection to that, though I believe Witts was going to ask her to dance a minuet Aug 07 18:40:58 * Molly nods "I will find him for the next" Aug 07 18:41:26 * Morgan nods, inclining his head to Dekker before leading Diana to a spot to dance Aug 07 18:41:52 * Molly is now known as Diana Aug 07 18:42:57 I have danced in the assembly rooms in Wittenberg where we are supposed to live, but never somewhere like this. I will try to get it right Aug 07 18:43:40 Relax and enjoy yourself, that's the important thing Aug 07 18:44:54 * Diana smiles, trying to do so when the song starts. She obviously knows the steps, but he can see how she counts them to herself. The dance means they are only infrequently able to converse Aug 07 18:45:30 *he can see Molly is having fun dancing with Dekker Aug 07 18:46:14 * Morgan makes small talk when the dance allows Aug 07 18:47:04 * Diana is polite but mostly responds rather than asking questions Aug 07 18:49:36 *a few minutes later his over, and HH is waiting to ask her next Aug 07 18:49:54 $you owe me, man.$ Aug 07 18:50:18 $Funny, someone owes me. She's nervous, make her laugh please$ Aug 07 18:51:03 $that'll cost ya extra$ *he has her laughing within moments* Aug 07 18:51:51 *Molly is dancing this new one with Potts* Aug 07 18:52:28 * Diana is now known as Adalbrecht Aug 07 18:52:51 * Adalbrecht comes to Morgan, watching his face Aug 07 18:54:31 * Morgan watches him impassively Aug 07 18:54:33 My lord? Aug 07 18:54:46 Just checking on you Aug 07 18:55:06 Because? Aug 07 18:55:30 I know you disapprove of him Aug 07 18:55:59 * Morgan looks round briefly Aug 07 18:56:03 Ah, Potts Aug 07 18:56:14 * Adalbrecht nods Aug 07 18:57:02 I don't recall saying I disapprove of him. I think he's something of a hypocrite, but I am aware that is not a conscious choice Aug 07 18:57:23 A hypocrite, hmm? Aug 07 18:57:52 Somewhat, yes Aug 07 18:57:58 Why? Aug 07 18:58:30 He yearns to find a woman who will be faithful to him, yet spends all his time tempting women away from their husbands. Aug 07 18:58:42 * Adalbrecht nods Aug 07 18:59:17 That is hypocritical, yes Aug 07 18:59:58 That being said... I trust him with Molly. Aug 07 19:00:07 * Adalbrecht nods Aug 07 19:00:26 I trust him more tonight than I have before Aug 07 19:00:41 You two seem positively friendly Aug 07 19:01:22 When a man runs at _that_ sort of danger to save you, it makes it very hard to maintain a grudge Aug 07 19:01:39 * Morgan nods Aug 07 19:01:46 Edward is a little jealous of him Aug 07 19:01:57 * Adalbrecht smiles Aug 07 19:02:10 I am certain Edward would have done the same had he been closer Aug 07 19:04:07 He is desperate to have you proud of him... I have told him you already are... and the only reason he wasn't is because he'd followed to stand by my side Aug 07 19:05:25 * Adalbrecht nods Aug 07 19:05:55 I am told that the resolution of the situation was very dangerous Aug 07 19:06:36 Here? Aug 07 19:07:15 * Adalbrecht nods "upstairs" Aug 07 19:07:43 * Morgan nods Aug 07 19:07:47 Yes, it was. Aug 07 19:08:13 I am glad you're all well Aug 07 19:08:44 Mostly, yes Aug 07 19:09:47 * Adalbrecht nods Aug 07 19:10:11 It seems most of the guests are going with Graf Goren back to his estate for Prophet's Mass Aug 07 19:10:38 * Morgan nods Aug 07 19:10:41 I'm not. Aug 07 19:12:24 Your Mother is looking forward to all being together for Prophets Mass Aug 07 19:13:51 It will make a nice change... Aug 07 19:15:02 * Adalbrecht nods Aug 07 19:15:52 *A waltz is called. Adalbrecht smiles* excuse me. Aug 07 19:16:11 * Morgan nods, looking round for Molly Aug 07 19:16:31 *She is with Zench, Potts and Wonks, giggling Aug 07 19:16:44 * Adalbrecht goes to collect Verity Aug 07 19:17:35 Gentlemen, if you don't mind, I'll be dancing with my wife now Aug 07 19:18:09 * Adalbrecht is now known as Molly Aug 07 19:18:23 * Molly smiles, and the others move away Aug 07 19:18:39 I thought you might be a little too busy tonight Aug 07 19:20:08 Never Aug 07 19:20:18 * Molly smiles, blushing Aug 07 19:20:22 Thank you Aug 07 19:21:37 *the music starts up. He can see Adalbrecht holding Verity at the correct and appropriate distance, but they look pleased to be together* Aug 07 19:21:37 * Morgan inclines his head, leading her to a quiet spot Aug 07 19:22:14 * Molly moves into his arms, the steps familiar and easy Aug 07 19:22:22 How were they? Aug 07 19:26:58 Nervous I'd say Aug 07 19:28:11 * Molly nods Aug 07 19:28:30 We thought she still might be, despite all the preparation last night Aug 07 19:29:22 Oh? Aug 07 19:29:40 * Molly smiles Aug 07 19:30:12 Stef, Mina and I had a very long talk, drinking wine in our nightgowns. It was nice Aug 07 19:30:33 * Morgan nods Aug 07 19:31:03 Until things went downhill, it was quite pleasant, aside from having to explain certain things to my father thanks to Potts Aug 07 19:31:33 Was that the cream pie thing Edward was saying about in the hall? Aug 07 19:32:03 * Morgan glances round before nodding Aug 07 19:32:31 *the music is so loud no one can hear them talking quietly this close together Aug 07 19:32:40 I have yet to work out what it is Aug 07 19:32:51 * Morgan smirks Aug 07 19:33:14 [It is when I spend myself within you] Aug 07 19:33:34 * Molly smiles, a flush creeping across her cheeks Aug 07 19:33:41 Oh! I see! Aug 07 19:34:23 * Molly then looks surprised Aug 07 19:34:31 And you explained that to him?! Aug 07 19:34:38 * Morgan nods Aug 07 19:35:03 He asked... they had tried to explain it away as related to cooking but... he wasn't buying it Aug 07 19:35:10 Was he horrified? Aug 07 19:35:21 He looked intensely uncomfortable Aug 07 19:35:37 * Molly nods a little Aug 07 19:35:41 As were you? Aug 07 19:36:13 Somewhat Aug 07 19:36:27 *she develops a look of mischief* did it make you wish you were back here explaining it to me through demonstration? Aug 07 19:37:16 I rather wished I could stuff Potts blanket down his throat Aug 07 19:37:24 * Molly giggles Aug 07 19:37:43 It is frowned up. I am glad you enjoyed the evening though Aug 07 19:38:39 * Morgan nods Aug 07 19:38:46 I had a long conversation with Dekker Aug 07 19:38:57 Did you? Aug 07 19:39:04 * Morgan nods Aug 07 19:39:59 What about, my love? Aug 07 19:41:07 Loss, love, Edward and his friends mourning Dekkers second wife, how they are like sons to him... and the house Aug 07 19:41:45 * Molly nods, biting her lip Aug 07 19:41:49 What did he say about the house? Aug 07 19:42:21 He accepted our offer, with the stipulation that we keep the staff at their current pay Aug 07 19:42:31 * Molly 's eyes light up Aug 07 19:42:47 Oh my god, really?! Aug 07 19:43:12 * Morgan nods Aug 07 19:43:35 That is wonderful news! *she accidentally steps on his foot* Aug 07 19:44:00 * Morgan grimaces Aug 07 19:45:14 Sorry, liebling Aug 07 19:46:02 * Morgan smiles, resuming the dance Aug 07 19:46:08 Yes, it is wonderful news Aug 07 19:46:18 It is so exciting! I cannot believe we have found our nest! Aug 07 19:47:02 * Morgan nods Aug 07 19:47:16 * Molly smiles thoughtfully Aug 07 19:47:23 We will need a solicitor Aug 07 19:48:03 That is in hand Aug 07 19:48:10 * Molly smiles Aug 07 19:48:17 You are too good to me Aug 07 19:54:15 Actually, it was father that came up with the idea of how to deal with it Aug 07 19:55:38 * Molly smiles Aug 07 19:55:50 I am glad we will have him to guide us Aug 07 19:56:02 * Morgan nods Aug 07 19:57:14 * Molly watches him Aug 07 19:57:28 I am so happy, my love Aug 07 19:57:54 * Morgan grins Aug 07 19:58:14 It'll be some time before we can move in but... it will be ours soon Aug 07 19:58:37 * Molly nods Aug 07 19:59:22 And then there will be the decorating, the new furniture, putting in some hedges for making a private area at the lake... Aug 07 19:59:51 You do not like it as it is? Aug 07 20:00:42 No, I do, I was teasing. *she whispers in his ear* Though I would redecorate every single door with prints of my bottom* Aug 07 20:01:03 * Morgan laughs Aug 07 20:01:35 * Molly smiles Aug 07 20:01:51 We enjoyed our evening too. It was when we started demonstrating positions that things got really amusing... Aug 07 20:02:13 Oh... oh dear Aug 07 20:02:45 Mmhmm. It's a little difficult with Stef so short, we had to use many pillows. Aug 07 20:03:19 * Molly watches his face Aug 07 20:03:22 * Morgan closes his eyes briefly Aug 07 20:03:35 * Molly starts giggling Aug 07 20:04:07 You are wicked, you know that? Aug 07 20:04:20 I do know that, yes Aug 07 20:04:53 We did not demonstrate, but we did strategise how best to do it for the first time Aug 07 20:06:41 * Morgan nods Aug 07 20:07:05 *The music starts to come to a close* Aug 07 20:09:02 I suppose I should be socialising Aug 07 20:09:47 * Molly nods Aug 07 20:09:58 I have a queue of men wishing to dance with me Aug 07 20:10:03 * Molly curtsies Aug 07 20:10:10 * Morgan bows Aug 07 20:11:37 *she is whisked away by Witts. He ends up making small talk with lots of people. He is stood with HH a little while later, the dancing still in full swing, as is the buffet. Aug 07 20:11:38 HH is stuffing his face from a fine china plate: Turned out alright in the end. Aug 07 20:12:08 * Morgan nods, watching him Aug 07 20:12:13 Would you like a trough? Aug 07 20:12:20 * Molly is now known as HH Aug 07 20:12:48 Got one, have ya? *he offers Morgan to pick something from the plate* Aug 07 20:13:10 * Morgan shakes his head, thanking him Aug 07 20:13:46 I hear ya had to check the bride was naked Aug 07 20:14:33 Sort of, aye Aug 07 20:15:07 Can't help thinking 'ow happy you woulda been about that at eighteen Aug 07 20:15:35 * Morgan nods Aug 07 20:16:20 Quietly grateful I think is the term Aug 07 20:16:28 * HH laughs Aug 07 20:16:45 Lots changed since then Aug 07 20:17:11 * Morgan nods Aug 07 20:17:19 Aye. Aug 07 20:17:48 * HH looks over at Molly dancing with Zench Aug 07 20:17:53 Y' picked a good one Aug 07 20:19:00 * Morgan nods Aug 07 20:19:09 Yes, I did... I have good taste Aug 07 20:19:16 * HH nods Aug 07 20:19:48 Gotta agree. Mina is a bit refined for me, but the others *he grins* Aug 07 20:20:51 * Morgan watches him seriously for a couple of minutes Aug 07 20:21:19 * HH opens his mouth to show Morgan his food Aug 07 20:22:07 You've been awfully free with your comments on other women the last few days... should I be thinking about taking you somewhere quiet and giving you a hiding? Aug 07 20:22:22 * HH swallows Aug 07 20:22:29 Nope, I'm good Aug 07 20:22:48 * Morgan nods, looking around Aug 07 20:23:10 **Across the room, Molly is led off the dancefloor by Zench, Heidi being led off by Faulk. Molly takes some champagne, sipping slowly. She looks distracted and thoughtful, head tilted, that particular little smile she has when she is fantasising about him** Aug 07 20:26:17 *HH is looking at him as if waiting for Morgan to respond. He grins* Aug 07 20:27:14 Inga is dear to me, that's all Aug 07 20:28:12 I know. I love her to bits, just windin' you up Aug 07 20:28:51 * HH watches Molly Aug 07 20:28:54 * Morgan nods Aug 07 20:28:55 good Aug 07 20:30:52 I'd give a guilder to know what's going through 'er mind Aug 07 20:33:32 *her expression hasn't changed* Aug 07 20:33:56 [Whats on your mind?] Aug 07 20:34:00 Fairly sure I could tell you Aug 07 20:34:54 [Mina's breasts] *she smiles faintly, sipping her champagne, not even looking in his direction* Aug 07 20:35:38 [Right... I'll let HeinzHarold know, he was wondering what you were thinking] Aug 07 20:35:49 * Morgan turns to HeinzHarold Aug 07 20:35:53 Do me a favour and look shocked Aug 07 20:36:09 [*she sounds amused* you do that, mon petit chou] Aug 07 20:36:22 Good shocked, bad shocked? Aug 07 20:36:35 Mildly disbelieving shocked Aug 07 20:36:46 And then look at Molly... Aug 07 20:37:15 * HH does an excellent job. She blushes hard, but is smiling Aug 07 20:37:26 Okay, what is going on? Aug 07 20:37:52 I asked what was on her mind, she said Mina's breasts... Aug 07 20:38:07 * HH doesn't have to fake the expression this time Aug 07 20:38:17 What the...?! Aug 07 20:38:52 Ahhh hang on, she worried that you saw 'em upstairs? Aug 07 20:39:04 That expression doesn't imply that, does it Aug 07 20:39:51 No. I really don't get it, man. I'll go ask. *he makes it look like he is going to go* Aug 07 20:40:27 * Morgan shrugs, sipping his drink Aug 07 20:41:19 * HH comes back to say "You seen Claudia since lunch?" Aug 07 20:41:36 She was going to do some snooping for me Aug 07 20:42:07 Been gone a long time... Aug 07 20:42:43 [Blossom, we're going to go find Claudia, make sure she's alright] Aug 07 20:42:57 [alright, liebling] Aug 07 20:43:13 * Morgan nudges HeinzHarold, heading for a door Aug 07 20:43:44 * HH shoves the last of the food in his mouth, leaving the plate with a servant Aug 07 20:45:01 She was going to go see if any of the guards in particular were involved in Rief's scheming Aug 07 20:45:20 * HH nods Aug 07 20:45:36 I'll show y' where. Bloody cold out 'ere Aug 07 20:45:56 Its the amount of people in there... body heat and all that Aug 07 20:46:07 * HH nods Aug 07 20:48:05 *As they walk the grounds, he hears a conversation from the other side of the hedge where the wooden gazebo lit by a lantern is. HH puts a hand on him, finger on his lip Aug 07 20:48:09 Claudia: Stay on your end of the bench and I will not gut you. *it's not playful like with Heinzharold, but it's also quite mild in tone. She does not sound uncomfortable or scared* Aug 07 20:48:09 DeeDee: would you like some? It's a tobacco that relaxes the mind and spirit. Aug 07 20:48:51 Claudia scoffs: why would I want to be less sharp surrounded by all these strangers? Aug 07 20:48:51 D: No, I understand. I smoke it to deal with some flashbacks and intrusive thoughts left over from the War Aug 07 20:48:51 C, sounding disdainful: And that works? It cannot be too serious then. Aug 07 20:48:51 D: I killed two people. Aug 07 20:49:18 * HH looks curious, staying quiet and out of sight to eavesdrop Aug 07 20:50:12 C, sarcastically: In almost eighteen months of service? Wow. Great work, little buddy. Aug 07 20:50:12 D, unflustered and untroubled: No… two civilians. A woman and a child. Aug 07 20:50:12 C: *she mutters an apology whilst Morgan can hear him strike a tinder box. An unusual, pleasant sort of smoke has reached him before he hears them continue* why would you tell me that when we have only just met tonight? Aug 07 20:50:41 * HH breathes it in deeply, smiling Aug 07 20:50:44 $We shouldn't be listening to this$ Aug 07 20:51:02 $she would.$ Aug 07 20:51:31 * Morgan frowns Aug 07 20:51:38 $Doesnt make it right$ Aug 07 20:52:12 D: You're wrong, we met in Sudlachenburg, in the summer of sixty-five. I was staying with Edward, but being in a noble house and on my best behaviour was wearing on me, so I went exploring. I saw you training outside a small house. Aug 07 20:52:12 C: It's a shack, actually. Aug 07 20:52:12 *HH covers his mouth not to laugh* $just keeping an eye out for her. Sounds like just the two of them$ Aug 07 20:52:47 $So she's perfectly safe$ Aug 07 20:52:58 D: My apologies, outside a shack. I was spell-bound. Aug 07 20:52:59 C, snappily: Oh let me guess. You thought I was some beautiful but weak woman, forced to learn to defend herself? Aug 07 20:52:59 $maybe it's him we're protecting!$ Aug 07 20:53:13 $Maybe she'd feel betrayed that we listened$ Aug 07 20:54:33 * HH shrugs $would you?$ Aug 07 20:54:33 D, completely genuine sounding: No. I thought you were handsome enough, but nowhere near as pretty and shapely as the women I had known in the War or since it. Aug 07 20:54:34 Claudia scoffs: How would you even know how shapely I am? I dress like a man so noone sees it. Aug 07 20:54:34 D: I do not, and I tried not speculate about it at the time. You were dressed to cover your body, it would have been wrong of me to attempt to circumvent that even in my imagination. Aug 07 20:54:34 *Claudia huffs, but Morgan knows her well enough to hear that she is vaguely impressed by it* Aug 07 20:55:10 * HH looks at Morgan $is he flirting?$ Aug 07 20:55:20 $I think so$ Aug 07 20:55:44 $never tried telling a girl she's not that pretty as a flirting technique before!$ Aug 07 20:56:18 $No. I wouldn't think it wise$ Aug 07 20:56:21 D: I was busy admiring your skill, strength and stamina anyway. Edward had warned me if I ever saw you I should not get within ten feet of your bare blade. I concluded he was naive, and twenty would be better. Aug 07 20:56:22 C: I have improved since then too. Thirty now, at least. Aug 07 20:56:22 D: I do not doubt it. You are a formidable warrior. I would love to one day witness that again. Aug 07 20:56:55 $oh yeah, he's flirting.$ Aug 07 20:57:03 * Morgan nods sligthly Aug 07 20:57:21 C, sighing: Just this once then. *Morgan hears her get up, and unsheath her sword* Aug 07 20:57:21 D: I trust I am safe to watch you this time? Last time you came over to me and said "if you don't stop staring at me I will-..." She joins in to say "rip your eyeballs from their sockets and cram them down your windpipe so you can watch yourself suffocate to death". Aug 07 20:57:51 * HH looks like he might keel over Aug 07 20:57:59 * Morgan nods Aug 07 20:58:43 D, sounding amused: You remember me now. Aug 07 20:58:44 C huffs, but her heart isn't in it: I remember your stupid, mooning face. Now shut up. Aug 07 20:59:00 $she's flirting back?!$ Aug 07 20:59:15 $Sounds like it$ Aug 07 20:59:38 * HH moves very quietly to peek over the hedge Aug 07 21:01:35 * Morgan watches him Aug 07 21:02:11 $the dancey schmancy thing. She's showing off$ Aug 07 21:02:39 $Definitely flirting$ Aug 07 21:03:02 $the fuck? When does she flirt with men?!$ Aug 07 21:03:18 $Never so far as I know$ Aug 07 21:04:05 $your wife is thinking about breasts, and Claudia is flirting with a man. If you start eyeing me up I am going to start worrying$ Aug 07 21:05:30 $its unnerving$ Aug 07 21:05:35 *She does this for about five minutes before stopping, breathing hard as she sheaths her sword* Aug 07 21:05:35 D: I am speechless. A man would be lucky to die at the end of so skilled a blade. Aug 07 21:05:59 $I was drugged last night, but I think that is the thing that's going to make me throw up$ Aug 07 21:06:21 * HH really struggles to keep a straight face Aug 07 21:06:25 C scoffs: That's an idiotic thing to say Aug 07 21:06:33 * HH nods in agreement Aug 07 21:07:16 D: Then you have made an idiot of me, Madame. You are vastly improved, which should be an impossibility. Aug 07 21:07:16 *she sits back down* Pipe. Aug 07 21:08:20 * HH glances at Morgan's reaction Aug 07 21:08:35 * Morgan motions back towards the house Aug 07 21:08:52 D, handing it over: It's very mild. I save the strong stuff for when it is at its worst Aug 07 21:08:53 *Claudia exhales the smoke, pausing before saying: It's good. *she pauses again, once more drawing on the pipe* We all occasionally killed civilians by mistake. It's horrible but unavoidable *she takes a last puff before handing it back* Aug 07 21:08:59 * HH looks torn Aug 07 21:09:42 D: It was a pregnant woman, and her unborn child. *he also exhales before continuing* Aug 07 21:10:37 $think she's safe?$ Aug 07 21:14:17 $Go inside, I'll check on her$ Aug 07 21:16:00 * HH has quit (Read error: Connection reset by peer) Aug 07 21:16:36 * MollyK (~igloo@31.185.35.52) has joined Aug 07 21:16:46 * MollyK is now known as narrator Aug 07 21:17:20 D: Our recon told us it was just a small camp in a burnt out village, thirty Vaticine infantry. It wasn't suitable conditions for a woman let alone an increasing one. It did not occur to me. I shot the target in the shoulder from behind, and when I went to turn him over to finish the job, I saw a pretty young face contorted with the pain I had Aug 07 21:17:20 caused. She was bleeding out, and she was terrified… *more smoke appears* She just kept saying "My baby. My baby" I still hear her voice in my head. Aug 07 21:17:20 C: Rough. Aug 07 21:17:20 D: I tried to comfort her, but what could I say? We both knew the baby would die too. She bled out. I saw her belly move. I wish I hadn't. It twitched, as if sensing something had changed. I got shot at, and I moved on. I had to. Aug 07 21:17:20 C: Yeah. *she takes the pipe when he offers it* Aug 07 21:17:51 D: when it gets bad it feels like I am that child. I can hear a heartbeat slow then stop. All the sound and movement I have ever known stops. I feel a fear that my world has ended and my mother is gone. Aug 07 21:17:51 C, quieter: Yeah… Aug 07 21:18:26 D: It's a crushing silence, and I don't hear anything around me when I get like that. It's a torture. I cannot stop thinking of how he or she must have starved to death, or been crushed by rigor mortis, or chilled when her body cooled. That drawn-out, terrifying, silent death. Aug 07 21:18:26 *Claudia lets a moment pass to acknowledge the gravity before saying* I am sorry that happened to you. Aug 07 21:18:26 D, now with his pipe again: Me too. I was in a very bad state. They had buried her in a pit with the others by the time I got back. I thought perhaps I could have taken the child out and smothered it, so at least it was quick. But they refused to let me exhume her. I was granted two weeks emergency leave afterwards. Dekker thought I might have to Aug 07 21:18:26 be medically discharged. Vania, Dekker's wife, told me the baby would have died in minutes, but I have never believed that. Vania was good at telling you what you needed. Aug 07 21:18:55 C: His late wife? Aug 07 21:18:55 D: Yes, wife number three of four. She died before the War ended, but she is always Dekker's wife to me. Sometimes two people are meant to have been together, and that was them. He is married again, but it's not the same. She is not the same. Aug 07 21:18:55 C: I know what you mean. My Father married again after my Mother died, but my Mother was the right woman for him, not my step-mother. He did not love her as much, and he liked her barely at all after a while. Aug 07 21:18:55 D: Are they still wed? Aug 07 21:19:29 C: No, my whole family were killed just as I finished basic training. Father, two older brothers, step-mother, half-sister, half-brother. All in one afternoon and I was not there to stop it. Aug 07 21:19:30 D: You probably couldn't have. Aug 07 21:19:30 C: I know. But it doesn't always feel that way. Pipe. Aug 07 21:19:30 *He hands it back* Sorry that happened to you. Aug 07 21:19:30 C: Thanks. Aug 07 21:19:32 D: I had better get back in there. It has been an honour and a pleasure to spend time with you. Goodnight, Madame Aug 07 21:19:34 Claudia hands the pipe back: Yeah, goodnight Lieutenant. Aug 07 21:19:36 *where normally most would now try to get her to call him by his actually name, DeeDee just bows politely and leaves* Aug 07 21:21:31 * Morgan finds somewhere out of sight to allow him to pass Aug 07 21:22:10 *he does, putting out the pipe before going into the house Aug 07 21:22:15 * narrator is now known as Claudia Aug 07 21:22:39 * Claudia stays put Aug 07 21:22:59 * Morgan gives it a minute before heading round the corner, into view Aug 07 21:23:07 * Claudia looks up Aug 07 21:23:08 Hey Aug 07 21:23:39 Mind if I join you? Aug 07 21:23:48 No, you're good Aug 07 21:23:58 * Morgan nods, sitting down Aug 07 21:24:47 * Claudia seems quite relaxed Aug 07 21:25:03 Guards are all clear. Dumb as fucking posts, but yeah Aug 07 21:25:22 I thought that was probably the case, but wasn't certain Aug 07 21:25:29 * Claudia nods Aug 07 21:25:40 Might train them for Edward Aug 07 21:26:26 I suspect he would appreciate that. I certainly would. Aug 07 21:26:30 Gonna be here eleven more days, it'll give me something to do Aug 07 21:28:36 * Morgan nods Aug 07 21:28:51 We'd not seen you since lunchtime, we were getting a bit worried Aug 07 21:29:18 I hate weddings. I was working, then _trying_ to get some quiet training time Aug 07 21:29:51 If it hadn't been for last night, I'd not have been concerned... HeinzHarold was hell bent on listening in Aug 07 21:30:09 Listening in to what? Aug 07 21:30:49 You and DeeDee. I managed to get him back indoors though Aug 07 21:30:56 * Claudia nods Aug 07 21:31:16 Bloody nuisance. Should have told him to take his stupid face elsewhere Aug 07 21:31:58 I didn't want to interrupt... its unusual for you to be open with any man, let alone someone you don't really know Aug 07 21:32:17 You hear he knows me? Aug 07 21:32:28 * Morgan nods Aug 07 21:33:37 I vaguely remember some idiot watching over my fence. Aug 07 21:34:11 Sounded like you were flirting with him... or as close to it as you get, anyway Aug 07 21:34:41 Oh fuck off, no I wasn't *she sounds quite relaxed even with this provocation* Aug 07 21:35:24 [uhhh... liebes herz?] Aug 07 21:35:26 It was nice to hear you relaxed with him. I think its the first time I've heard you not be wary of someone Aug 07 21:35:30 [yes blossom?] Aug 07 21:35:56 [Heinzharold says you need reassurance that I am not attracted to women.] Aug 07 21:36:16 * Claudia shrugs "it's the tobacco" Aug 07 21:36:54 Thats as maybe but I wouldn't have thought you'd allow something that alters your state of mind around him Aug 07 21:37:04 * Claudia shrugs Aug 07 21:37:05 [I said I was going to tell him] Aug 07 21:37:14 I've smoked that before Aug 07 21:37:29 [and now you are worried?] Aug 07 21:37:29 * Morgan nods Aug 07 21:37:38 [No, not at all] Aug 07 21:37:45 [good] Aug 07 21:38:10 You should try it for your nightmares. It's difficult to acquire though Aug 07 21:38:51 I don't know... I don't smoke anyway, and I'm not even keen on getting drunk. I don't like being out of control Aug 07 21:39:03 * Claudia nods Aug 07 21:39:12 Up to you Aug 07 21:39:57 * Morgan nods Aug 07 21:40:25 Why aren't you in celebrating finally lumping Edward onto someone else? Aug 07 21:40:46 I wanted to check on you, what with the wolf issue... Aug 07 21:40:53 * Claudia nods Aug 07 21:41:20 Reckon there's more trouble ahead? Aug 07 21:41:55 * Morgan sighs Aug 07 21:42:00 I hope not but... Aug 07 21:42:06 * Claudia nods Aug 07 21:42:13 ... be on the lookout Aug 07 21:42:27 * Morgan smiles Aug 07 21:42:31 Isn't that just how we are Aug 07 21:42:58 * Claudia nods Aug 07 21:43:45 I'm good. I'll take a walk around, check things are quiet Aug 07 21:43:58 * Morgan nods, getting up Aug 07 21:44:28 I sent him inside in case you confided in DeeDee... I didn't want HeinzHarold finding out like that Aug 07 21:44:35 * Claudia nods Aug 07 21:44:54 I appreciate it, but I wouldn't be confiding that anyway Aug 07 21:45:12 I didn't _think_ so but... not a risk I was going to take Aug 07 21:45:18 * Claudia nods Aug 07 21:45:37 I might tell him before we go. We have some time here Aug 07 21:46:04 Give me a heads up? Aug 07 21:46:15 Obviously. He'll need you. Aug 07 21:47:44 * Morgan nods Aug 07 21:48:09 Go carefully... I don't anticipate more trouble but... lets be on the safe side Aug 07 21:49:07 * Claudia nods Aug 07 21:49:23 Will do. Go and do your noble nonsense Aug 07 21:49:41 * Morgan rolls his eyes, wandering back inside Aug 07 21:50:08 *in the ballroom Faulk is dancing with Molly, and Aug 07 21:50:15 Other waltz* Aug 07 21:51:02 * Morgan looks around Aug 07 21:53:18 *everyone still looks to be enjoying themselves. Heidi is laughing with Wonks, not sign of Zench Aug 07 21:53:57 * Morgan makes his way over to them Aug 07 21:54:37 * Claudia is now known as Heidi Aug 07 21:54:48 * Heidi seems happy to see him Aug 07 21:55:15 I thought Edward would wet himself when I caught you two playing earlier Aug 07 21:55:35 * Morgan nods Aug 07 21:55:44 It struck genuine fear into him I think Aug 07 21:55:51 * Heidi laughs Aug 07 21:55:56 He's a big girl Aug 07 21:56:30 I've often said so Aug 07 21:56:41 Do you want to dance? Aug 07 21:56:48 Do I get to lead? Aug 07 21:56:55 * Heidi smiles Aug 07 21:56:57 At first Aug 07 21:57:06 * Morgan laughs, offering his arm Aug 07 21:57:34 * Heidi takes it. In heels she's barely shorter than him Aug 07 21:58:07 * Morgan leads her out before taking his position Aug 07 21:58:25 * Heidi takes her own spot, letting him lead Aug 07 21:58:51 Did you enjoy the wedding? Aug 07 21:59:20 * Morgan nods Aug 07 21:59:25 You? Aug 07 21:59:30 * Heidi nods Aug 07 21:59:46 I'm happy for them. I like Mina, even though she lacks mischief Aug 07 22:00:48 * Morgan nods Aug 07 22:01:00 They are utterly besotted with eachother Aug 07 22:01:18 * Heidi nods Aug 07 22:02:21 I think Witts will go next. He's got this woman, she's a bit like a business partner. They squabble all the time. She's a widow. If she marries him she loses control of her business, Aug 07 22:03:00 A difficult situation for her, then Aug 07 22:03:06 * Heidi nods Aug 07 22:03:42 * Heidi starts trying to lead Aug 07 22:04:28 Do you want me to fall over? Aug 07 22:06:04 * Heidi grins Aug 07 22:06:09 That would be funny Aug 07 22:06:50 Where is Zench? Aug 07 22:07:01 * Heidi grins Aug 07 22:07:22 He might have gotten some peach cobbler in his hair Aug 07 22:09:25 That is... lets be honest, unsurprising Aug 07 22:09:34 * Heidi smiles Aug 07 22:11:05 What's surprising is that he didn't. I just grinned and told him he might have. In silvam non ligna feras. *Her Theah words mean "do not carry the wood to the forest"* Aug 07 22:11:57 * Morgan laughs Aug 07 22:12:02 Devious... I like it. Aug 07 22:12:30 * Heidi nods, subtly trying to lead him again now he is a bit more distracted Aug 07 22:12:57 * Morgan turns, moving her round Aug 07 22:13:14 Now... are you trying to lead to prove something? Or just to be mischievous? Aug 07 22:15:07 The latter. I have no interest in proving anything Aug 07 22:16:04 You're an unusual woman, Heidi. Aug 07 22:17:23 * Heidi nods Aug 07 22:18:43 I know. But life is so very hard for people, and I did not survive an awful War only to be miserable. *in thean* What is life for if not laughter? Aug 07 22:19:20 * Morgan replies in Thean Aug 07 22:19:24 Love Aug 07 22:19:56 And love with laughter is better than love with sadness Aug 07 22:20:30 * Morgan smiles slightly Aug 07 22:20:33 I'm working on that Aug 07 22:21:01 * Heidi nods Aug 07 22:21:38 Your wife does not look happy right now Aug 07 22:22:10 * Morgan looks over Aug 07 22:22:24 *Molly looks very cheerful, but Heidi shifts her weight to turn him* Aug 07 22:22:34 dammit Aug 07 22:22:47 * Heidi laughs Aug 07 22:23:19 You, woman, are simultaneously cruel and hilarious Aug 07 22:23:25 I know Aug 07 22:23:58 *In Thean* You submit well. Aug 07 22:24:44 I know when to leave a battle Aug 07 22:24:54 *He feels a tap on his shoulder* Aug 07 22:25:16 * Morgan turns Aug 07 22:25:52 * Heidi 's pupils dilate as she looks over his shoulder, but still she says "not today, thank you" Aug 07 22:26:10 *Zench looks at Morgan* I am here to rescue you, your Excellency Aug 07 22:26:18 * Morgan chuckles Aug 07 22:26:42 Heidi has been the soul of propriety... which, like the peach... is cobblers Aug 07 22:27:23 *Zench laughs* She is a devil in a pretty dress. I'll take her before she does her usual nonsense. Aug 07 22:27:38 * Heidi does let go Aug 07 22:28:37 Z; Normally she steals the lead, and then shortly after will become a deadweight, leaving you floundering and trying to hold her up. Aug 07 22:29:05 * Heidi grins "He loves it, especially at Court" Aug 07 22:29:21 The former, she managed... the latter she would've been disappointed Aug 07 22:29:43 * Heidi looks intrigued "why?" Aug 07 22:30:43 * Morgan glances round before moving next to her, placing an arm around her waist Aug 07 22:30:46 Because... Aug 07 22:30:56 * Morgan lifts her easily, with no sign of any exertion Aug 07 22:31:44 * Heidi laughs loudly, catching them a lot of attention Aug 07 22:31:51 * Morgan puts her back down Aug 07 22:32:10 The other option, given that I'm prone to moments of whimsy... is I'd just let you drop Aug 07 22:32:37 Z: I tried that. The looks you get from people around you are not worth it Aug 07 22:32:54 Have you not heard? I'm the mad Veisgraf, who knows why I do anything Aug 07 22:33:10 *HH catches his eye* Aug 07 22:33:35 Excuse me, please. Heidi, it was a pleasure Aug 07 22:33:47 * Heidi nods "it was" Aug 07 22:34:37 * Heidi gets pulled into Zench's arms and he says to her "for half a dance, can you behave so I can just hold you close?" Aug 07 22:34:51 * Morgan smiles, heading over to HeinzHarold Aug 07 22:35:03 * Heidi is now known as HH Aug 07 22:35:41 Do I need to think about taking you out an' thrashing you? Aug 07 22:36:04 * Morgan laughs Aug 07 22:36:10 No... I was proving a point Aug 07 22:36:25 * HH shrugs "Good" Aug 07 22:36:33 * Morgan looks at him Aug 07 22:36:40 Don't tell me you were actually worried Aug 07 22:37:09 No, but let's be honest, I can see why she'd appeal Aug 07 22:38:19 * Morgan shrugs Aug 07 22:38:31 *the song changes, DeeDee dancing with Molly now* Aug 07 22:39:28 Y' don't need to worry about the bubbies, I know what that's all about Aug 07 22:39:43 Do you? Whats that? Aug 07 22:40:26 Apparently Mina is very sensitive. Molly was wondering that if she can numb stuff, mebbie she can do the opposite. Aug 07 22:41:21 * Morgan blinks a couple of times Aug 07 22:41:24 Right... Aug 07 22:41:31 * HH grins Aug 07 22:41:39 Wonderin' it too now? Aug 07 22:42:31 Not sure I'd like that applied to me... Aug 07 22:42:39 * HH laughs Aug 07 22:42:56 I don't think she meant your bubbies, man Aug 07 22:43:20 Its not my bubbies I was thinking about... Aug 07 22:43:25 What then? Aug 07 22:43:55 * Morgan turns, staring at him like he's dense Aug 07 22:44:05 * HH looks at him like he's dense Aug 07 22:44:36 Come here darling lets just lay down for a cud... I'm done... Aug 07 22:44:47 * HH laughs Aug 07 22:45:13 If y' can only make that 'appens once you and I need a big chat about the birds and the bees Aug 07 22:46:08 Shut up Aug 07 22:46:17 * HH laughs Aug 07 22:46:31 Where's Claudia? Aug 07 22:47:27 Walking the grounds Aug 07 22:47:56 * HH nods Aug 07 22:48:08 She okay? Aug 07 22:48:12 * Morgan nods Aug 07 22:48:13 She's fine Aug 07 22:48:19 * HH nods Aug 07 22:48:29 I'm getting more food, coming? Aug 07 22:48:48 * Morgan nods Aug 07 22:54:46 * HH has quit (Ping Timeout) Aug 07 22:54:57 * Morgan has quit (Quit: This computer has gone to sleep)