**** BEGIN LOGGING AT Tue Jan 31 00:00:31 2023 Jan 31 00:00:31 *Molly looks to Inga* No, I don't think so... I've only heard it once or twice in Sudlachenburg... one for sorrow, two for joy? Jan 31 00:01:14 I: three for a girl, four for a boy... Jan 31 00:02:10 HH: I know this! Five for a dog, six f' a cat, seven for someone with an ugly new hat! Jan 31 00:02:28 * Morgan sniggers, taking a mouthful of blokners Jan 31 00:03:33 *Inga rolls her eyes* no... it's five for silver, six for gold, seven for a secret never to be told... there's more, but I've never seen more than seven Jan 31 00:04:24 * Morgan looks at Xsarlac Jan 31 00:04:38 Eisen in general is quite superstitious, but Sudlachenburg rather takes it to extremes Jan 31 00:05:26 *HH and Inga are debating what comes next. But Morgan knows what eight is, from his dream last night, and Dietlinde naming the date he died on Morgan's Rock* Jan 31 00:05:33 -why- is it? Jan 31 00:06:46 * Morgan smiles slightly Jan 31 00:07:35 Its sat on the shores of a glowing lake with monsters in it, next to a forest with wood that burns dark red thats -infested- with creatures that'll strip the skin from you... if anywhere was going to be more superstitious, thats where it'd be Jan 31 00:07:49 * Xsarlac nods Jan 31 00:07:52 * Morgan taps HeinzHarolds foot with his own Jan 31 00:07:58 $its a death$ Jan 31 00:08:27 Duchess Torrington's is monster-heavy too Jan 31 00:09:19 Yes, but... not to the same extent... Jan 31 00:09:42 HH: Eight is a death! Nine a birth, Ten's a ship too big to berth... *he winks at Inga, making her both blush and concede* Jan 31 00:10:11 *Molly giggles, trying to concentrate on eating* Jan 31 00:11:15 We used to have monsters but between our warriors and the dragons we don't anymore Jan 31 00:12:14 For the most part, ours leave you alone if you don't wander into their territory... Schneeskald excepted, mind Jan 31 00:12:25 What are they? Jan 31 00:13:45 They're actually one of the winter princes pets... little flying things, sprite like, quite beautiful... they draw your attention with their light and flitting flight, and entice you to follow them into a little clearing... then they turn on you en masse and skin you alive Jan 31 00:13:56 * Morgan puts some fish into his mouth Jan 31 00:14:01 Less of them than there used to be... Jan 31 00:14:27 * Xsarlac grins Jan 31 00:14:38 Only in Eisen? Jan 31 00:14:46 * Morgan nods Jan 31 00:15:08 They used to follow the drachen over the mountains into Ussura, but mans warmth enticed them instead Jan 31 00:15:48 How many have they killed? Jan 31 00:15:59 * Morgan shrugs Jan 31 00:16:17 Who can say... they normally appear by roads at night, tempting travellers Jan 31 00:16:36 * Xsarlac nods Jan 31 00:17:06 I thought the Winter Prince was only in Avalon Jan 31 00:17:39 So did I. Apparently that is not the case, though it seems to more be his pets wandering about and annoying me than him Jan 31 00:18:07 * Xsarlac nods Jan 31 00:18:24 Will you be trying to find him and deal with him when you get back? Jan 31 00:18:34 $this guy mental?!$ Jan 31 00:19:20 No... I'll have my Grafdom to run and... his time isn't yet. Jan 31 00:19:59 $He and I have faced all manner of things... any danger that showed at Catherines home, I ran towards, and so did he$ Jan 31 00:20:16 * Xsarlac nods, eating Jan 31 00:21:01 $he's used to you flirting with death then$ Jan 31 00:21:39 $Oh yeah$ Jan 31 00:22:27 $no one ever asked if -you- were mental?$ Jan 31 00:22:58 $They call me the mad Veisgraf for a reason... as for Avalon, they just knew I was violent$ Jan 31 00:23:26 $fucking weird, man$ Jan 31 00:23:31 * Morgan sips his blokners Jan 31 00:23:34 $why?$ Jan 31 00:23:54 $i missed a lot$ Jan 31 00:24:33 $I was a different man there man. I wouldn't have been good to know$ Jan 31 00:24:50 Amir's not far off crawling I think Jan 31 00:25:44 * Xsarlac nods Jan 31 00:26:10 They usually get it pretty soon after rocking Jan 31 00:26:38 * Morgan nods Jan 31 00:26:49 Its the figuring out you need to move the arms first that stumps them I think Jan 31 00:27:41 * Xsarlac nods Jan 31 00:27:54 He'll have it before we get there Jan 31 00:28:24 * Morgan nods Jan 31 00:28:47 I imagine you'll be spending all your time reuniting your family once we arrive... Jan 31 00:30:03 Some of it. She's been gone a long time, our daughter has been the Queen Regent for more than five years now Jan 31 00:31:01 * Morgan nods Jan 31 00:31:21 What sort of reception do you think your return will bring? Jan 31 00:32:31 The people will be very glad to see her. The family will too, but it's going to be difficult if she isn't her normal self Jan 31 00:34:26 Sometimes when we go away for a while, we don't come back the same Jan 31 00:34:58 * Xsarlac nods Jan 31 00:35:18 It might be that she will never be Queen again Jan 31 00:36:46 * Morgan nods Jan 31 00:36:54 That is a possibility, yes Jan 31 00:38:11 * Xsarlac nods, giving Zareen, who is probably able to understand at least some Eisen now, a reassuring smile Jan 31 00:40:35 It will be more difficult, but our daughter has been expecting to be Queen since she was a young girl. She will serve well Jan 31 00:41:52 What will your role be in that? Jan 31 00:42:47 To support them all, and keep things running at home Jan 31 00:43:19 You'll have no say in the running of Capperlucia? Jan 31 00:44:38 I don't have a position of decision making, but I will counsel Riyah if she wants it Jan 31 00:45:20 * Morgan nods, taking a mouthful of his drink Jan 31 00:46:34 She's a good queen, and she will want to work with Molly for organising trade Jan 31 00:47:14 * Morgan nods Jan 31 00:47:23 Its going to be strange for me, not being involved in things like that Jan 31 00:48:20 It has been strange living in Theah Main and seeing all the unhappy men struggling to create societies Jan 31 00:49:43 We've already got one in Eisen... its just a bit... broken right now Jan 31 00:50:43 It'd be better to add even a few more women as rulers there Jan 31 00:51:44 We've got more than most... Jan 31 00:51:51 * Xsarlac nods Jan 31 00:52:20 [Eisenfurstin Ilena Rosenkrantz-Fischler would be nice...] Jan 31 00:52:54 [not sure we can plot an accident for Isiah...] Jan 31 00:53:46 [sexual misadventure...] Jan 31 00:54:07 * Morgan glances at her Jan 31 00:56:01 * Morgan has quit (Quit: This computer has gone to sleep) Jan 31 00:57:20 * Xsarlac has quit (Read error: EOF from client) Jan 31 13:09:06 * Morgan (~mads@iMac-2.lan) has joined Jan 31 13:17:54 * MollyK (~igloo@CrystabllesiPad.lan) has joined Jan 31 13:18:26 * MollyK glances at him with an expression of sweet innocent enquiry Jan 31 13:19:01 * Morgan is frowning slightly Jan 31 13:19:58 * MollyK tries not to giggle Jan 31 13:20:29 [fear not, I'm not planning to destabilise the Konigsreich!] Jan 31 13:20:39 * Morgan nods slightly Jan 31 13:23:51 *the rest of the dinner is smooth, just drinking coffee afterwards* Jan 31 13:24:01 [are you to swim, my love?] Jan 31 13:24:53 {I'm not sure it'll help, but I'm willing to try] Jan 31 13:26:29 [at the least it may help you fall asleep] Jan 31 13:26:51 [aye maybe] Jan 31 13:31:10 * MollyK excuses herself, bidding them all goodnight. He notices the last little smile at the sleeping baby Jan 31 13:32:29 * Morgan waits a few minutes before following suit, heading back to his room Jan 31 13:34:47 * MollyK has laid out the things he might need, and she's tidying the study Jan 31 13:37:03 * Morgan gets himself ready Jan 31 13:37:08 I'll not be long Jan 31 13:37:37 I will get the oil and towel ready Jan 31 13:38:27 * Morgan nods, heading for the deck Jan 31 13:39:41 * MollyK is now known as Claudia Jan 31 13:39:43 Hey Jan 31 13:40:20 hey Jan 31 13:40:47 How are you? Jan 31 13:41:19 * Claudia is sat on a crate, everything quiet by this time of night Jan 31 13:42:18 Up and down... mostly I'm ok, but every now and then something small bothers me Jan 31 13:42:47 * Claudia nods Jan 31 13:43:15 Swimming again? Jan 31 13:43:33 * Morgan nods Jan 31 13:43:40 Hoping it helps me sleep Jan 31 13:44:03 Is it getting to sleep that's a problem? Jan 31 13:44:13 * Morgan shakes his head Jan 31 13:44:28 No, its not... not at all Jan 31 13:45:58 * Claudia nods Jan 31 13:46:26 Do you want me to swap watches so it's me up here in the morning? Jan 31 13:47:30 * Morgan shakes his head Jan 31 13:48:02 I need some normality... moping about doesn't suit me... I intended to spend today wrapped in a blanket locked in my room but... I just couldn't do it Jan 31 13:48:23 * Claudia nods Jan 31 13:48:30 That sounds like progress Jan 31 13:49:43 * Morgan shrugs Jan 31 13:49:50 Maybe. Jan 31 13:51:24 * Claudia nods Jan 31 13:52:21 Go on then. It's not getting any warmer. Jan 31 13:52:56 * Morgan shrugs, moving to the rail Jan 31 13:53:00 Might do in a minute Jan 31 13:53:32 Any chance I can get my coat back? Jan 31 13:54:22 * Morgan nods Jan 31 13:54:40 Sorry, she's been concentrating on making sure I don't self destruct... I'll get it to you soon as I'm back out of the water Jan 31 13:54:54 [Could you get someone to bring Claudia her coat?] Jan 31 13:55:43 * Morgan pulls his shirt off, dropping it on the deck and climbing over the rail Jan 31 13:57:14 [damn. Yes, of course] Jan 31 13:57:58 It'll be here soon Jan 31 13:58:03 Thanks Jan 31 13:58:19 * Morgan pushes off into a dive, hitting the water with barely a splash Jan 31 13:59:26 The water is bitterly cold, the movement of the sea more noticeable than it had been this morning, but the cold water works well at quieting his mind.* Jan 31 14:02:38 * Morgan climbs back up the anchor's chain after twenty or so minutes Jan 31 14:04:15 * Claudia is stood there holding his towel and shirt Jan 31 14:05:02 * Morgan looks at her like she's doing something extremely unexpected but takes them, thanking her Jan 31 14:06:40 * Claudia nods Jan 31 14:06:50 Nothing else to do Jan 31 14:07:13 * Morgan nods, trying his torso before pulling his shirt back on Jan 31 14:07:30 Better than suddenly having an awful lot to do on this shift Jan 31 14:07:38 * Claudia nods Jan 31 14:07:56 A little would be good. It stops you rattling around in your own head Jan 31 14:09:33 Wanna talk about it? Jan 31 14:10:15 * Claudia shrugs Jan 31 14:10:18 Just in general Jan 31 14:10:57 * Morgan nods Jan 31 14:11:05 Generally I don't have that issue -too- much Jan 31 14:11:42 Heinzharold doesn't at all because empty things don't rattle Jan 31 14:12:14 * Morgan shrugs Jan 31 14:12:26 I think he's more bothered by things than even we realised Jan 31 14:14:58 Like? Jan 31 14:15:25 * Morgan sighs Jan 31 14:15:39 Things I only know because of the freaky bullshit with the dreams Jan 31 14:17:42 * Claudia nods a little Jan 31 14:17:57 They're weird as hell Jan 31 14:18:31 * Morgan nods Jan 31 14:18:36 Makes me quite the freak, right? Jan 31 14:20:45 * Claudia frowns Jan 31 14:20:59 No, just someone who gets weird dreams Jan 31 14:21:59 Suppose so Jan 31 14:23:42 * Claudia nods "I'm only up here til midnight, but you can come and find me if you need me. Just... don't forget to wake me firmly, okay?" Jan 31 14:25:12 I haven't forgotten Jan 31 14:25:53 * Claudia nods Jan 31 14:26:01 Heinzharold okay? Jan 31 14:28:13 * Morgan nods Jan 31 14:28:45 Yeah, think so... he's been trying to keep everyone occupied and away from me all day Jan 31 14:30:19 * Claudia nods Jan 31 14:30:28 Being more stupid than normal? Jan 31 14:32:57 No, quite the opposite... being more attentive, organising things... Jan 31 14:33:45 * Claudia nods Jan 31 14:33:51 Worried about you then Jan 31 14:36:49 * Morgan nods, sighing Jan 31 14:36:54 Its been a rough few nights Jan 31 14:37:41 * Claudia nods Jan 31 14:38:11 Something's definitely going on with you. Maybe it's part of moving forward Jan 31 14:39:00 * Morgan shrugs Jan 31 14:39:02 Its painful Jan 31 14:40:20 * Claudia nods Jan 31 14:40:47 Just got to get through it, one day at a time Jan 31 14:41:58 We'll see if I can Jan 31 14:42:55 You're stronger than this, Morgan. You've gotten this far, you can go further Jan 31 14:43:21 * Morgan shrugs Jan 31 14:43:42 I'm gonn' head to bed. Hopefully I won't see you before morning Jan 31 14:43:56 There for you anyway Jan 31 14:46:19 * Morgan nods, grasping her shoulder before heading below Jan 31 14:46:35 * Claudia is now known as Molly Jan 31 14:47:03 * Molly is just in a short shift, everything set up for the promised massage Jan 31 14:49:36 I have your pipe ready, my love Jan 31 14:49:46 * Morgan sighs, nodding Jan 31 14:49:47 Alright Jan 31 14:50:07 * Molly hands it to him Jan 31 14:51:41 * Morgan looks at it, concentrating on lighting it before drawing on it Jan 31 14:52:36 * Molly starts undoing his shirt, the elation hitting twenty seconds after exhaling Jan 31 14:55:41 How was your swim? Jan 31 14:57:12 cold... worked surprisingly well Jan 31 14:57:59 Lovely... like in the lake at Graben Jan 31 14:58:23 * Morgan nods Jan 31 14:58:27 More currents though Jan 31 14:58:45 * Molly finishes with his shirt, offering to hold the pipe so he can pull it off Jan 31 14:59:07 Less bubbies too? Jan 31 15:02:23 * Morgan nods, handing her the pipe and pulling his shirt off, briefly running his fingers over the scarring on his rib cage Jan 31 15:03:03 It's really not so bad, my love... it's just another part of you I love Jan 31 15:03:24 * Morgan shrugs Jan 31 15:05:21 I don't know... its... *he sighs* it just is, I suppose Jan 31 15:07:25 * Molly puts her own free hand there, brushing her thumb gently over it. It's loving and accepting, and she watches him "I find every inch of you beautiful, especially the scars, in some ways" Jan 31 15:09:33 When things are easier, I'll want you to explain that Jan 31 15:09:51 I will, whenever you read Jan 31 15:09:59 Ready* Jan 31 15:10:33 * Molly moves her hand to his waistband "you'll wish to get out of these" Jan 31 15:11:17 * Morgan nods, taking off his trousers Jan 31 15:11:45 * Molly smiles, still holding the pipe Jan 31 15:12:56 * Morgan takes the pipe back, drawing on it again Jan 31 15:14:46 * Molly smiles "are you ready to start?" Jan 31 15:15:27 * Morgan nods Jan 31 15:15:31 Aye, I think so Jan 31 15:16:53 Face down then, my love Jan 31 15:17:35 * Morgan nods, crawling onto the bed, laying on his front Jan 31 15:17:52 * Molly sighs happily Jan 31 15:18:08 Alright, try to relax Jan 31 15:18:17 * Morgan nods slightly Jan 31 15:19:54 * Molly gets settled straddling his hips. The scent of the oil is light and mild, but it's the same one they used in Westfeld to explore something he'd only heard of in the very crudest jokes of his shipmates Jan 31 15:21:26 * Morgan tries to start breathing slower, concentrating on relaxing Jan 31 15:22:19 * Molly warms it in her hands before gently stroking them over his back, across the scarring left by the Oreste's whip. He notices immediately that his skin is generally more tingly, and even the scars have a little more sensation than they normally do Jan 31 15:23:24 * Morgan fidgets Jan 31 15:23:29 What's going on with that? Jan 31 15:26:27 With what, my love? *she continues as she was. It's starting to become more of a full-body tingling* Jan 31 15:45:27 its... tingly... Jan 31 15:48:10 I'm not doing anything magical Jan 31 15:51:43 thats... peculiar... Jan 31 15:52:50 Is it unpleasant? Jan 31 15:53:05 Not particularly Jan 31 15:54:37 Do you wish me to stop? Jan 31 15:54:50 * Morgan shakes his head, resting it back on the bed Jan 31 15:55:59 * Molly keeps going. It just seems to get more pleasant for a while, the mild feeling in the scars in some places he hasn't felt since the morning of the punishment Jan 31 15:57:55 * Morgan frowns, utterly confused and somewhat overwhelmed by the sudden return of sensation Jan 31 15:59:05 I could try to use the magic to understand? Jan 31 15:59:31 * Morgan nods Jan 31 16:02:26 *his neck prickles now* Jan 31 16:02:29 Ohhh... Jan 31 16:03:28 What? *he sounds quite alarmed* Jan 31 16:04:48 It's the tobacco, my love Jan 31 16:05:33 What? I don't understand Jan 31 16:05:59 * Molly rubs right down his back to his hips "it makes your nerves more sensitive. You can feel things in more detail" Jan 31 16:07:16 * Morgan shivers Jan 31 16:07:41 Not felt anything in that part of my back for... well... since I got my punishment Jan 31 16:08:04 Nothing to worry about, liebling. Would you like me to avoid those bits? Jan 31 16:10:02 * Morgan shakes his head slightly Jan 31 16:11:03 * Molly continues, mixing touch over the scars with points she knows have full sensation Jan 31 16:12:09 * Morgan slowly relaxes Jan 31 16:13:01 Could I try something? Jan 31 16:14:36 * Morgan nods slowly Jan 31 16:17:40 * Molly gently runs her nails over the scars. This more focused sensation is definitely noticeable and tingly Jan 31 16:18:06 * Morgan shivers Jan 31 16:18:20 Oh, uhhh, yeah, thats... definitely noticeable Jan 31 16:18:41 Does it hurt? Jan 31 16:19:08 No, no, not at all Jan 31 16:22:16 * Molly nods. He feels her shift a little, then heat on one of the scars, something he had definitely lost most of the sensation of Jan 31 16:23:31 Oh, wow Jan 31 16:24:12 * Molly is a little muffled Jan 31 16:24:16 That's nice? Jan 31 16:24:31 * Morgan nods Jan 31 16:24:32 Aye Jan 31 16:25:19 * Molly places more kisses on the scars, lingering and making sure her tongue is on the ragged skin to give him the best chance of feeling it Jan 31 16:25:43 * Morgan sighs quietly Jan 31 16:26:24 I think I could actually give you the sensation back to this level Jan 31 16:27:22 Not sure how I feel about that Jan 31 16:27:57 * Molly kisses once more before straightening up and going back to the massage Jan 31 16:28:02 There's no rush, my love Jan 31 16:28:46 * Morgan nods, closing his eyes Jan 31 16:30:54 * Molly continues, adding more oil Jan 31 16:32:52 *the tingling starts to fade after another fifteen minutes* Jan 31 16:34:26 * Morgan sighs Jan 31 16:34:29 And there it goes Jan 31 16:36:43 More tobacco perhaps? Jan 31 16:38:35 No, I think... I've had enough Jan 31 16:38:47 Of the massage? Jan 31 16:39:37 The tobacco... though I am feeling probably as relaxed as could be expected Jan 31 16:40:04 Alright, my love *she dries off the oil before getting off* Jan 31 16:42:44 I'm glad you feel more relaxed Jan 31 16:43:38 * Morgan nods Jan 31 16:43:40 mmhmm Jan 31 16:44:11 * Molly starts laying out some shoes and a robe on a chair near the door, as well as one of his shirts and a towel. She's smiling to herself Jan 31 16:44:31 Something amuses you? Jan 31 16:45:44 Pleasant memories is all Jan 31 16:46:36 Oh, I see Jan 31 16:50:12 * Molly nods, coming to sit beside him Jan 31 16:50:42 Just the first time I massaged you, and you said you were relaxed in all places but one Jan 31 16:51:25 * Morgan nods Jan 31 16:51:29 Ah, yeah Jan 31 16:52:11 * Molly gently kisses his cheek Jan 31 16:52:19 Are you ready to sleep? Jan 31 16:53:25 * Morgan nods Jan 31 16:53:27 I think so Jan 31 16:54:05 * Molly gets ready for bed, removing the shift before getting under the sheets Jan 31 16:56:25 You will wake me? Jan 31 16:56:51 If I can, yes Jan 31 16:57:47 * Molly nods Jan 31 16:58:07 Alright, my love. Is there anything else I can do? Jan 31 16:58:40 * Morgan shakes his head Jan 31 16:58:48 Don' think so love Jan 31 16:59:18 * Molly nods, settling down beside him Jan 31 16:59:22 Just sing? Jan 31 17:00:00 * Morgan nods Jan 31 17:00:01 Aye Jan 31 17:01:32 Is there something specific you'd like? Jan 31 17:01:53 * Morgan shrugs Jan 31 17:01:57 Not particularly Jan 31 17:03:33 * Molly starts to sing Kosk Yn Ta to him. With the water, the tobacco, and the massage, he starts to feel sleepy very quickly Jan 31 17:05:25 * Morgan doesn't try to fight it Jan 31 17:08:07 *unfortunately, he dreams again of the faked deaths, having carried the very friendly cat to the garden and looks up at the stars whilst he could smell the flowers, summer night warm* Jan 31 17:09:45 * Morgan watches the stars for a while Jan 31 17:10:36 *the cat has absented itself. He notices his eyelids getting heavy* Jan 31 17:11:09 * Morgan sighs heavily, quietly moving through the house to the spare room Jan 31 17:14:11 *he dreams that night of Molly. They're at a lake, skinny dipping at night, looking at the stars. The water's freezing, snowy mountains in the background. He picks her up, desire hot in comparison to the water. In a little summer house furnished with a bed, he spends three hours relentlessly pleasuring her, making her climax with his fingers and Jan 31 17:14:11 his mouth hundreds of times, her sighs and moans like a beautiful orchestral piece, until she begins to desperately plead for him to take her. Though she’s never been quiet in bed, this is a new, inexperienced level of vocal he hasn’t seen. He's about to enter her when he awakens, rock solid and approaching the plateau, closer than he's ever woken Jan 31 17:14:11 before, even as a teen, with a need that far outstrips the most difficult era of puberty* Jan 31 17:14:39 Unexperienced* Jan 31 17:15:24 * Morgan grumbles, sitting up cross-legged, covered while he waits for it to subside Jan 31 17:16:33 *this does take a little while, but as he's such an early waker it's unlikely he'd miss dawn either way* Jan 31 17:17:05 * Morgan gets himself dressed, heading down to the kitchen to make coffee before heading outside Jan 31 17:17:35 *In the pre-dawn hallway, Dietlinde's door is slightly open again* Jan 31 17:18:50 * Morgan stares at it for a couple of minutes before looking through the gap Jan 31 17:19:21 *She dressing for the day, not facing the doorway, but completely naked with her hair down. It's been three long years since he's seen her nude except for in memory, and though she has lost some of the fullness through her hips, bottom and thighs that he loved to draw and caress so much, it's still a sight that makes his heart skip a beat and stirs Jan 31 17:19:21 him behind his placket* Jan 31 17:19:49 * Morgan frowns, immediately moving away quietly, berating himself as he descends the stairs Jan 31 17:20:39 *he bumps into DeeDee downstairs in the kitchen* Jan 31 17:20:44 * Molly is now known as DeeDee Jan 31 17:20:51 Good morning, my Lord Jan 31 17:21:16 * Morgan takes a deep breath, letting it out slowly Jan 31 17:21:27 Its definitely morning Jan 31 17:21:50 * DeeDee nods Jan 31 17:22:03 Can I get you coffee or breakfast? Jan 31 17:22:17 Just coffee, please... no sugar. Jan 31 17:22:39 * DeeDee makes it Jan 31 17:23:04 Today's your last day isn't it? Jan 31 17:24:31 Is that some sort of... no, sorry, its not a threat... yes, its my last day Jan 31 17:25:22 Not a threat at all, my Lord. The butchers order is due today, if you were staying longer I'd add more to it Jan 31 17:25:31 * DeeDee gives him coffee Jan 31 17:27:26 I've spent a few years in a place I was only spoken to to be threatened usually... but no, I'll be on my way as planned Jan 31 17:28:27 * DeeDee nods Jan 31 17:28:58 I won't be leaving them until they are in their new home, unless you say otherwise Jan 31 17:29:33 Its a complicated situation, but no, I'd keep you watching over them Jan 31 17:31:01 * DeeDee nods Jan 31 17:31:27 I can help shift crates, but no doubt you'll want to buy them new things Jan 31 17:33:49 * Morgan nods, frowning slightly Jan 31 17:33:56 Whatever they'll need they'll have Jan 31 17:34:10 * DeeDee smiles Jan 31 17:34:15 I'm going to miss them Jan 31 17:34:56 You have places to be, things to do... Jan 31 17:36:26 I am missed by my friends and family Jan 31 17:37:01 * DeeDee suddenly pulls out a nice pocket watch "shit, I'm going to be late for work!" Jan 31 17:37:27 * Morgan moves out of his way Jan 31 17:38:23 Sorry, barrels won't build themselves *he grabs the last bit of his toast* Only half day, I'll be back by lunch Jan 31 17:38:52 * Morgan nods Jan 31 17:38:57 See you later Jan 31 17:39:34 * DeeDee waves, sticking the food in his mouth as he goes rapidly Jan 31 17:40:13 * Morgan glances round before carrying his coffee out into the garden to wait for the sun Jan 31 17:41:16 *it rises over the garden. It's pretty, the day promising to be fine. Inside he can hear movement in the kitchen* Jan 31 17:41:53 * Morgan wanders back inside Jan 31 17:42:12 * DeeDee is now known as Dietlinde Jan 31 17:44:42 ACTION is in the kitchen starting the day's work, an apron over her dress. She must have brought it the day of the fire, because it was the first thing she made in their new home, allowing extra gathers for when she was increasing, and it had come in handy when Jana was coming along. That means it is more than five years old now, the yellow faded Jan 31 17:44:42 but the green leafy embroidery going strong. Her hair is well tamed. Jan 31 17:45:57 * Morgan speaks quietly Jan 31 17:45:58 morning Jan 31 17:46:29 * Dietlinde smiles. She looks a little tired, but better than many would be faring Jan 31 17:46:57 Good morning. I was going to make some bread, do you still like it like before? Jan 31 17:47:14 * Morgan nods Jan 31 17:47:27 You don't have to do that... Jan 31 17:47:58 I like to, it reminds me of-... of home. Jan 31 17:48:21 *she starts to add ingredients to a big ceramic bowl* Jan 31 17:48:43 * Morgan nods sadly Jan 31 17:51:17 * Dietlinde works quietly, just as she used to, her work meticulous and neat, in baking as well as sewing. Partway through she makes coffee, once more leaving the spoon by the kettle. Jan 31 17:51:51 * Morgan sighs Jan 31 17:51:56 Is there anything I can do? Jan 31 17:52:21 * Dietlinde smiles, a glimpse of her normal sunny disposition Jan 31 17:52:51 I don't think I need help with this, thank you Jan 31 17:53:11 * Morgan nods Jan 31 17:53:16 Anything else? Jan 31 17:53:38 Once it's proving, should we talk about what happens now? Jan 31 17:54:16 Thats probably sensible... Jan 31 17:55:08 It probably will not be very nice, but we have to for the children. They'll be up in about an hour, JoJo takes after you Jan 31 17:55:48 * Morgan nods Jan 31 17:55:57 He looks quite a bit like me Jan 31 17:56:39 * Dietlinde nods, smiling Jan 31 17:56:48 He did right from the beginning Jan 31 18:00:47 * Morgan looks pained, but nods Jan 31 18:03:55 Edward has a painting of him somewhere, he said he was doing it for you Jan 31 18:04:17 * Morgan 's voice is flat, expressionless Jan 31 18:04:21 Did he Jan 31 18:04:28 * Dietlinde nods Jan 31 18:04:35 I suppose you didn't get it Jan 31 18:05:01 No, I did not Jan 31 18:06:56 * Dietlinde works the dough quietly. It's not quite the same as how he's seen the others do it, but something he saw every few days for two and a half years, the familiar sounds of it natural. Jan 31 18:07:18 No-one does that quite like you do, y'know Jan 31 18:07:56 * Dietlinde smiles Jan 31 18:08:10 I never thought I did anything special to it Jan 31 18:08:50 * Morgan shrugs Jan 31 18:09:05 Tough to say what's different about the way you do it, too... Jan 31 18:09:20 * Dietlinde smiles Jan 31 18:09:52 You were always doing something, like whittling wood or fixing something Jan 31 18:10:08 * Morgan nods Jan 31 18:10:18 It felt right, being useful Jan 31 18:10:51 * Dietlinde nods, setting it under a damp cloth to prove Jan 31 18:10:57 We were very happy Jan 31 18:11:11 * Morgan nods Jan 31 18:11:12 yes Jan 31 18:12:56 * Dietlinde takes their coffees on a tray to the parlour, and sits on the couch at one end. The maid must have lit the fire to take the night chill off the room Jan 31 18:13:41 * Morgan sits down Jan 31 18:14:17 * Dietlinde takes a handkerchief from her pocket. The style is similar, but the initials are L.C. , not D. K. Jan 31 18:14:31 How are you feeling today? Jan 31 18:15:12 I don't know... awful... elated... Jan 31 18:15:32 Both? Jan 31 18:15:50 * Morgan nods Jan 31 18:17:42 * Dietlinde looks sad Jan 31 18:17:49 Why do you feel elated? Jan 31 18:19:53 Because, despite all the pain, my little girl is still here... and I have a son Jan 31 18:20:21 * Dietlinde nods Jan 31 18:20:36 They are what is most important now Jan 31 18:20:50 * Morgan nods Jan 31 18:21:19 * Dietlinde looks emotional Jan 31 18:21:32 How will we go on from here? Jan 31 18:22:18 I can't say I really know... I would like you all closer... Jan 31 18:23:06 * Dietlinde nods Jan 31 18:23:22 I want the children to know you Jan 31 18:23:33 * Morgan nods Jan 31 18:23:36 Thank you Jan 31 18:24:09 I'd like if you could visit them often Jan 31 18:24:29 Thats why I want you closer... Jan 31 18:25:30 * Dietlinde picks up her cup Jan 31 18:25:49 Is us being nearby going to make your life now more difficult? Jan 31 18:26:06 * Morgan shrugs Jan 31 18:26:34 My family will adapt. Jan 31 18:27:02 When will you want us to move? Jan 31 18:27:57 I don't know... need to find a house, arrange transport, all that stuff... do you have a time you would wish to wait til, or be gone by? Jan 31 18:28:38 * Dietlinde shakes her head Jan 31 18:29:08 I've been waiting for three years, we don't have much so that we could be ready to come back to you Jan 31 18:29:26 * Morgan nods, looking pained briefly Jan 31 18:29:38 You are established here... would you prefer to stay? Jan 31 18:30:06 Isn't it too many days travel for you to see them very often? Jan 31 18:30:35 * Morgan nods Jan 31 18:30:57 Realistically, yes but... I have asked much of you... Jan 31 18:31:45 But I've said no to most of it already. I don't want you or Jana and JoJo to be nay unhappier Jan 31 18:32:26 * Morgan nods slightly Jan 31 18:34:14 We couldn't be too close because people will be worried something like that would happen again? Jan 31 18:34:47 I was thinking maybe... Banhoff... Jan 31 18:36:22 That's close enough that you could stay one or two days a week? Jan 31 18:36:34 * Morgan nods Jan 31 18:36:49 I think so, yes... if you were willing, of course... Jan 31 18:38:19 It's two or three hours ride, I think? Will your duties mean you can be with Jana and JoJo so much? Jan 31 18:39:54 I will make the time. I'm not going to be Graf for a long time, and I will work with my father to make sure I have that time Jan 31 18:40:58 * Dietlinde drinks a little coffee, eyes sad "what about your family?" Jan 31 18:45:02 What about them? Jan 31 18:46:35 * Dietlinde takes a deep breath "your wife and child." Jan 31 18:48:33 * Morgan frowns briefly Jan 31 18:50:17 Will they be able to let you see your children? Jan 31 18:51:23 * Morgan nods Jan 31 18:52:02 She has seen the pain that not seeing them has caused me these last years... she was prepared to accept that situation you refused... letting me see my children will not even be a question for her Jan 31 18:52:44 * Dietlinde wipes her eyes "I'm glad you can see theml Jan 31 18:53:49 * Morgan nods Jan 31 18:57:22 We don't need a very big house Jan 31 18:59:57 * Morgan scratches his nose Jan 31 19:00:52 Uhhh, I'll take care of it... nice garden, room to grow and play... couple of maids... Jan 31 19:02:47 We'll only need four bedrooms Jan 31 19:04:20 You are sure? You may wish for more in future... Jan 31 19:07:35 * Dietlinde shakes her head Jan 31 19:07:50 No, I don't want to marry again Jan 31 19:08:22 * Morgan looks at her a moment before nodding Jan 31 19:08:34 If that is what you wish, four it will be Jan 31 19:10:44 * Dietlinde nods Jan 31 19:11:08 And will you give Ja-... Sabina a dowry? Jan 31 19:12:56 Of course. Jan 31 19:15:01 Will you help JoJo find an apprenticeship? Jan 31 19:15:58 * Morgan nods Jan 31 19:19:54 * Dietlinde has quit (Read error: Connection reset by peer) Jan 31 19:38:44 * MollyK (~igloo@CrystabllesiPad.lan) has joined Jan 31 19:38:59 * MollyK is now known as Dietlinde Jan 31 19:39:03 * Dietlinde nods "thank you, Morgan" Jan 31 19:39:57 I would provide for you but I suspect you would not want that... Jan 31 19:40:41 I want to work, but I might need help to provide for the children Jan 31 19:40:57 * Morgan nods Jan 31 19:41:14 Of course... its my duty and... I -want- to... they are my children... Jan 31 19:41:26 * Dietlinde nods Jan 31 19:41:36 They always will be Jan 31 19:41:40 * Morgan nods Jan 31 19:41:55 I will amend my will to ensure you are provided for if something should happen to me Jan 31 19:42:09 * Dietlinde nods Jan 31 19:42:14 I'd be grateful Jan 31 19:42:37 * Morgan nods, sipping his coffee Jan 31 19:43:17 * Dietlinde is quiet too, the silence starting to stretch out Jan 31 19:43:52 * Morgan sighs Jan 31 19:44:07 How are we going to deal with this for them? Jan 31 19:44:37 I don't know. I prayed on it for hours, but I don't know Jan 31 19:45:18 * Morgan nods Jan 31 19:45:23 Do you think we should wait? Jan 31 19:45:57 Maybe, yes Jan 31 19:47:35 I think it would hurt them more if they were told and then I have to leave... Jan 31 19:47:59 * Dietlinde nods Jan 31 19:48:06 Maybe once we move Jan 31 19:48:51 * Morgan nods Jan 31 19:49:33 I am sorry it has come to this Jan 31 19:49:46 * Dietlinde nods Jan 31 19:49:58 Me too Jan 31 19:50:29 * Morgan sips his coffee Jan 31 19:51:06 I'm glad for JoJo that he never has to be the Veisgraf now, I wouldn't wish that life on anyone Jan 31 19:51:42 * Morgan looks quite upset at this Jan 31 19:52:08 No... of all the things it is, fair is not among them Jan 31 19:52:56 I wish our son can find the love that we found and be allowed to have it Jan 31 19:53:26 * Morgan nods Jan 31 19:54:02 What pretence are we to use, for the nosey? Jan 31 19:55:21 I don't know. Maybe it would be easier to say I was the widow of someone you were in the War with? *she smiles, but it looks pained* it's truthful rather than honest? Jan 31 19:56:05 * Morgan nods slightly Jan 31 19:56:55 * Dietlinde watches him compassionately Jan 31 19:57:23 You wouldn't want people thinking you had a mistress and some by-blows Jan 31 19:57:55 Wouldn't I? Jan 31 19:58:19 The old you wouldn't Jan 31 19:58:51 * Morgan looks deeply wounded by this Jan 31 19:59:06 I'm more concerned with their future Jan 31 19:59:31 * Dietlinde looks guilty "I shouldn't have said that, I'm sorry. I'm hurting and that was mean" Jan 31 19:59:59 * Morgan sighs Jan 31 20:00:43 It isn't just you that has lost who I was... though I've changed I thought maybe I was still a man you could have loved, been proud of... losing that is... hard to deal with Jan 31 20:01:38 * Dietlinde looks away, distressed Jan 31 20:02:21 I could have loved you just like I always did, but I -can't- love someone else's husband. That is wrong. Jan 31 20:02:29 * Morgan nods Jan 31 20:03:12 I know, I know... but the man you loved wouldn't have asked you to, I understand that Jan 31 20:04:31 No, he wouldn't. The woman you married first could never accept being part of an infidelity, from inside or out Jan 31 20:05:16 * Morgan nods, looking at his cup Jan 31 20:06:17 I know you haven't tried to be cruel or to hurt me Jan 31 20:06:37 No, I haven't... and it kills me to know that I have regardless Jan 31 20:07:14 Do you know that I have tried to hurt you? Jan 31 20:07:39 Haven't* Jan 31 20:07:58 * Morgan nods Jan 31 20:08:08 Of course I do... you aren't that sort of person Jan 31 20:08:20 * Dietlinde nods Jan 31 20:10:36 We can still care for each other. We have the children to think of, and I don't want them thinking we hate each other Jan 31 20:10:58 No, I don't think I could handle that Jan 31 20:11:48 * Dietlinde nods Jan 31 20:13:12 I thought I might still take them to toddler group after lunch, to keep things normal for them Jan 31 20:13:46 * Morgan nods Jan 31 20:14:11 I wonder if I might join you? Jan 31 20:15:12 * Dietlinde nods "I don't think we can tell anyone who you are" Jan 31 20:16:29 Ah, then... perhaps it is not a good idea that I come, since JoJo might say Jan 31 20:17:03 * Dietlinde nods "should I keep them here?" Jan 31 20:17:53 I'm loathe to disrupt them Jan 31 20:20:06 * Dietlinde sips her coffee Jan 31 20:20:20 Would you like to get them up? Jan 31 20:21:05 There is no more to discuss right now? Jan 31 20:21:14 * Dietlinde thinks Jan 31 20:21:56 A governess please, I think both of them are clever enough for one. Jana can already read some things Jan 31 20:22:16 * Morgan nods Jan 31 20:23:20 absolutely. *he looks at her a moment* something to think on... if it were believed you were my mistress, the children would be protected, acknowledged... it might be safer, long term... Jan 31 20:24:13 If people thought they were yours, how would we explain Sabina being the same age as Jana? Jan 31 20:25:12 Maybe we wouldn't... Jan 31 20:25:30 People will think you were unfaithful to me Jan 31 20:25:53 * Morgan nods slowly Jan 31 20:25:57 That is intolerable Jan 31 20:26:11 * Dietlinde nods Jan 31 20:26:20 I wouldn't like that Jan 31 20:26:54 * Morgan nods Jan 31 20:27:10 alright... Jan 31 20:27:37 I'll make breakfast, do you still like your eggs the same way? Jan 31 20:28:07 * Morgan nods Jan 31 20:28:14 Yes, I do... I'll wake the children? Jan 31 20:28:20 * Dietlinde nods Jan 31 20:28:26 They'll like that Jan 31 20:28:43 * Morgan nods, getting up Jan 31 20:29:14 * Dietlinde stays sitting, still with a little coffee left Jan 31 20:29:55 * Morgan sighs slightly, going upstairs to wake the children Jan 31 20:30:08 * Dietlinde is now known as Jana Jan 31 20:30:43 * Jana is asleep, her younger brother asleep half on her, his armpit on her forehead Jan 31 20:31:12 * Morgan smiles, watching them for a few moments before gently trying to rouse them Jan 31 20:31:50 *they both wake excited to see him, JoJo climbing all over him* Jan 31 20:32:02 What will we do today, Vati? Jan 31 20:32:52 Well, later on Muti is taking you to toddler group Jan 31 20:33:14 Are you going away today? Jan 31 20:33:46 * Morgan nods Jan 31 20:33:52 Yes, I am I'm afraid Jan 31 20:33:59 No, tomorrow Jan 31 20:34:43 * Jana hugs him too Jan 31 20:34:55 * Morgan holds them both close Jan 31 20:35:13 Could we walk to the lake? Jan 31 20:35:23 If Muti says thats ok Jan 31 20:35:29 JoJo: No, I want to play catch! Jan 31 20:36:04 Well -I- want to see the lake and make some paper boats, and imagine I am on a big sailing ship Jan 31 20:36:36 JoJo looks interested in compromise: Pirate ship? Jan 31 20:37:23 Yours could be a pirate ship, JoJo. But mine will be a trading ship, because being a pirate isn't being good Jan 31 20:37:41 * Morgan nods Jan 31 20:37:49 Pirates are quite bad... Jan 31 20:38:04 * Jana nods Jan 31 20:38:25 They steal and they tell lies. We shouldn't tell lies, should we, Vati? Jan 31 20:38:39 No, we shouldn't Jan 31 20:39:08 You can not tell people all the truth, but you can't tell them a lie Jan 31 20:39:53 Where'd you get that? Jan 31 20:41:07 Muti told me Jan 31 20:41:21 * Morgan nods Jan 31 20:43:35 * Jana and JoJo seem more united now they're discussing how to make the boats, and she knows where all their clothes are so he can help JoJo whilst she dresses herself. Their clothes are very well made, unsurprisingly Jan 31 20:43:45 Is DeeDee going to come with us? Jan 31 20:44:27 To the group? Jan 31 20:44:53 * Jana nods Jan 31 20:45:04 DeeDee likes children Jan 31 20:45:11 Ummm, I don't know... possibly, he's due back at lunchtime Jan 31 20:46:18 *JoJo holds up his arms for his jumper* Jan 31 20:46:49 * Morgan puts it on him carefully Jan 31 20:49:03 *they head down for breakfast, sitting at the table in the parlour. Dietlinde serves all their breakfast, and it's just the four of them. As the children chat, squabble and eat, he can feel Dietlinde's eyes on him now and then* Jan 31 20:49:57 * Morgan watches his children smiling, watching Dietlinde surrepticiously Jan 31 20:50:24 *she looks wistful, a little sad* Jan 31 20:51:54 * Morgan finishes his breakfast, chatting with the children Jan 31 20:52:34 *they do go to the lake, paper in tow, and Jana asks him to make them some ships* Jan 31 20:53:09 * Morgan sits on the ground, folding the paper before handing the little paper ship to his daughter Jan 31 20:53:30 What's it called, Vati? Jan 31 20:54:28 ummm... I don't know, what shall we call it? Jan 31 20:56:36 I think The Lily Of The Valley, like Muti's perfume Jan 31 20:57:15 * Morgan nods Jan 31 20:57:17 Very good Jan 31 20:59:27 *JoJo puts another piece in his hands* mine? Jan 31 21:00:17 * Morgan nods, making another but different before handing it back Jan 31 21:00:46 JoJo: What pirate ship name? Jan 31 21:01:47 Oooh, lets see... Jan 31 21:03:24 How about the abandoned barnacle? Jan 31 21:05:18 JoJo puts the ship in the lake: Go go, Dan Don Barkle! Jan 31 21:05:33 * Jana giggles Jan 31 21:06:06 * Morgan smiles, looking round Jan 31 21:07:03 *Dietlinde has a parasol, sitting on a bench and watching him with their blonde children, the little boats gently moving on the surface* Jan 31 21:08:14 * Morgan pulls his children to him, cuddling them Jan 31 21:11:15 *it's nice, the sun warm, the breeze gentle, and yet a little thought trickles in... what if he had never found them... what if they really had died before they had chance to grow, before JoJo was even bigger than a fingernail...* Jan 31 21:13:31 * Morgan shakes himself slightly , trying to banish the thought Jan 31 21:14:59 *the boats get to mid-lake before one sinks. An argument breaks out over whether it was the Lily or the Barkle* Jan 31 21:15:34 * Morgan pulls them to him, blowing raspberries on their necks Jan 31 21:18:18 *the children laugh, enjoying themselves. They even enjoy the long slow walk back, settling to drawing ships in the parlour. Dietlinde brings him coffee, sitting on the couch where they can talk quietly Jan 31 21:18:25 * Jana is now known as Dietlinde Jan 31 21:18:30 I've had an idea Jan 31 21:18:46 * Morgan draws a breath, obviously steeling himself Jan 31 21:18:47 Go on Jan 31 21:19:23 We could say they're your Godchildren Jan 31 21:19:59 * Morgan nods slowly Jan 31 21:20:19 It would stop any questions for why I provide for them... Jan 31 21:20:29 * Dietlinde nods Jan 31 21:20:55 They'd be treated better because they're the godchildren of a Veisgraf Jan 31 21:21:36 * Morgan nods Jan 31 21:21:51 Thats a good idea Jan 31 21:22:35 If either accidentally says Father I can say they find it confusing and you're their Godfather, because their real Father died when they were young Jan 31 21:23:25 * Morgan flinches, looking away while nodding Jan 31 21:23:42 Yes, that would be... easily believed Jan 31 21:23:53 * Dietlinde nods Jan 31 21:24:12 It's a compromise Jan 31 21:24:59 * Morgan nods Jan 31 21:25:01 Yes, it is Jan 31 21:26:03 * Dietlinde nods, watching them Jan 31 21:26:30 I just want them to be safe and happy. That's what I am going to live for now Jan 31 21:26:56 * Morgan nods Jan 31 21:28:49 It makes a lot of sense, telling people that Jan 31 21:50:00 It means you can show them love in public Jan 31 21:50:13 * Morgan nods Jan 31 21:50:19 That is wonderful... thank you Jan 31 21:51:11 * Dietlinde smiles faintly "I want you to be happy too" Jan 31 21:51:35 * Morgan nods slightly Jan 31 21:51:44 I must confess I don't feel like I deserve that Jan 31 21:52:05 You didn't do this on purpose Jan 31 21:53:12 Yet I am to blame Jan 31 21:53:25 Why? Jan 31 21:53:43 * Morgan sighs before smiling slightly Jan 31 21:53:50 It doesn't matter now. Jan 31 21:54:45 Would you still have married me if you'd known all the trouble it would bring? Jan 31 21:55:42 The only thing I regret about marrying you was the danger it put you in and the hurt you feel now Jan 31 21:56:59 I hope you'll always remember that we were so happy when we were married Jan 31 21:57:14 * Morgan nods Jan 31 21:58:29 Of course... even in my darkest times, the memories of our life, deliriously happy, and blessed with our daughter... it sustained me, kept me from giving up entirely Jan 31 21:59:38 * Dietlinde smiles, though she looks slightly teary "me too, waiting for you" Jan 31 22:01:36 * Morgan looks at her sympathetically Jan 31 22:03:27 JoJo: *He comes over to her* Muti, lunch now? *she picks him up, kissing his face* yes, I'll do that now, shall we check this morning's bread? *She carries him on her hip from the room. Jana was gone from him before JoJo's age, so he missed seeing Dietlinde carrying her at the same age, very pregnant too* Jan 31 22:04:15 * Morgan watches them sadly Jan 31 22:04:44 *Jana brings him her drawing, catching her father alone* I drew a ship Jan 31 22:04:48 * Dietlinde is now known as Jana Jan 31 22:05:13 * Morgan blinks, scooping her up onto his lap Jan 31 22:05:16 Did you? Jan 31 22:07:04 *she shows him. It's very dark wood, with white sails, green masts. On the bottom it says The Lily Of The Valley* Jan 31 22:08:02 Thats beautiful Jan 31 22:08:12 It's made from the schwarzenwald Jan 31 22:08:34 That explains the colour... but we don't use the wood from there... Jan 31 22:08:40 Why? Jan 31 22:09:14 Superstition, thats all... but we don't use it, just in case Jan 31 22:09:26 Do you mean the Schattenmann, Vati? Jan 31 22:09:38 You know about that? Jan 31 22:09:43 * Jana nods Jan 31 22:10:17 Muti makes pumpernickel bread on the Shadowfayre and puts it at the bottom of the garden Jan 31 22:10:29 * Morgan nods Jan 31 22:11:40 Nuh uh *she emphatically shakes her head, straight blonde hair swishing* I'm not scared of the Schattenmann Jan 31 22:12:10 No? Jan 31 22:13:45 No. All he wants is some people to be nice to him. We have a big party, but he's not invited because everybody would be scared, so we give him some bread to say "sorry, you can't come to our party, but we do still think about you". Then he's not so sad Jan 31 22:15:22 thats... an interesting way to look at it Jan 31 22:15:33 * Jana nods Jan 31 22:19:04 So if I start saving my bread now, when I'm older I will go to him and say "Hello, excuse me please, my name is Sabina Curzon, and I would like to trade you one hundred bread rolls for enough trees to make a ship". And he would say "okay, I -do- really like bread", and I would say "Thank you Mister Mann, would you help me cut them down please?" And Jan 31 22:19:04 he would just rip them out because he is -really- strong, and I would put them all in a truck, and my horse would pull them to Starke. Can I have a horse please Vati? And a bread roll? *his daughter has barely drawn a breath* Jan 31 22:21:29 A horse and a bread roll... Jan 31 22:21:43 To pull the truck, and to buy the tree Jan 31 22:22:05 * Morgan nods slowly Jan 31 22:22:12 Sounds like you've got it all planned out Jan 31 22:22:51 * Jana nods "then if I don't want to get married I don't have to" Jan 31 22:23:50 Because you'll have a ship... Jan 31 22:24:01 * Jana nods Jan 31 22:24:16 Then I could earn my own money, like Muti Jan 31 22:24:50 * Morgan nods Jan 31 22:24:55 You could, I suppose Jan 31 22:25:08 * Jana nods, cuddling up to him Jan 31 22:25:16 Would you like my ship? Jan 31 22:26:38 * Morgan nods Jan 31 22:26:46 Its beautiful, I absolutely would Jan 31 22:27:07 * Jana nods Jan 31 22:27:18 I wish you could stay here Jan 31 22:27:38 * Morgan nods Jan 31 22:27:52 I know sweetheart, but there's so much I have to do, to sort out Jan 31 22:28:21 * Jana nods "you won't go away before we come home, will you?" Jan 31 22:29:03 No, love, I'll be here, I'll go tomorrow Jan 31 22:30:12 * Jana doesn't seem distressed when they go out thanks to this. The maid is given a few hours too, leaving Morgan alone in the house where his son was born and his children have grown without him* Jan 31 22:31:30 * Morgan spends time in the garden, thinking, only going back inside to refill his coffee Jan 31 22:32:42 *one time as he heads back in, he hears Claudia say "Why are you so obsessed with me?!". Her tone is more playful disdain than anything else* Jan 31 22:33:01 * Morgan heads towards the sound of her voice Jan 31 22:33:07 * Jana is now known as Claudia Jan 31 22:34:13 * Claudia and DeeDee are in the kitchen. He looks like he's just gotten home. The room is full of sexual tension, something he's never seen Claudia be involved in ever Jan 31 22:34:30 D: I have no idea! Jan 31 22:35:14 * Morgan sniffs loudly Jan 31 22:35:42 * Claudia looks at him "hey. Coffee?" Jan 31 22:36:24 * Morgan nods Jan 31 22:36:29 You find my brother? Jan 31 22:37:01 Upstairs getting cleaned up Jan 31 22:37:11 * Claudia pours him some coffee Jan 31 22:37:30 * Morgan nods slightly, moving back out of the kitchen Jan 31 22:38:39 You're going already? Jan 31 22:39:02 I can see I'm intruding. I'll be in the garden Jan 31 22:41:23 * Claudia scoffs "as if I'd be interested in him!" Jan 31 22:41:43 * Morgan shrugs Jan 31 22:42:15 D: And I prefer women *he grins. She glares at him, but it doesn't seem like her usual threatening look* Jan 31 22:42:56 * Morgan nods slightly, moving away through the house Jan 31 22:44:13 *he's outside ten minutes when he hears footsteps* Jan 31 22:44:17 * Claudia is now known as Edward Jan 31 22:44:42 I turned back after two days travel, there's been no sign of her Jan 31 22:45:27 I found her Jan 31 22:45:49 * Edward looks relieved Jan 31 22:45:53 Where is she? Jan 31 22:46:35 She -was- in Sudlachenburg... I understand she's gone to look for a house in Banhoff while I've been here Jan 31 22:47:25 * Edward nods, hands in his pockets Jan 31 22:47:29 Excellent Jan 31 22:49:10 Except... things here haven't gone to your "plan"... I note that is a common occurrence Jan 31 22:49:29 * Edward shrugs slightly Jan 31 22:49:33 Why not? Jan 31 22:50:06 She said no... she will not share me with another. Jan 31 22:50:17 That's ridiculous Jan 31 22:51:07 Not if you have any sort of morals Jan 31 22:51:28 She's your wife, command her. Jan 31 22:52:06 She will not compromise on her principles Edward, and if I were the man she fell in love with, I would not have asked her to. Jan 31 22:53:01 But you have, and been emphatic? Jan 31 22:53:46 I have done all I can. Jan 31 22:55:12 You are absolutely certain? There is nothing you can offer her to sweeten the deal? Another child, perhaps? Jan 31 22:55:33 If you -had- any principles, perhaps you'd understand Jan 31 22:55:58 * Edward looks around the garden Jan 31 22:56:14 When are you leaving for Catterick? Jan 31 22:56:45 I'm not. You don't get your hands on power by shuffling me off and pretending I, too, am dead. Jan 31 22:57:25 I have already told you that I do not want your job, I just wanted you to do it properly Jan 31 22:57:44 * Morgan looks at him Jan 31 22:57:52 You cannot be trusted to tell the truth. Jan 31 22:58:22 My future is in Graben. Freiarr Hapsburg has no male heir Jan 31 22:58:42 * Morgan shrugs, looking disinterested Jan 31 22:59:17 I called you here to fix the situation, since your wonderful plan created it... but its too late. Jan 31 22:59:39 What are your intentions now? Jan 31 23:01:31 The children have no idea, and if any inkling comes from you, I'll skin you alive and send your hide to your betrothed. *he says this with absolute calm* They are going to have a home in Banhoff. If anyone asks, Lina will tell them she is the widow of a man I was with in the war... since her husband died after a house fire... Jan 31 23:02:21 She doesn't want you? Jan 31 23:03:09 She would if I would put Molly aside... but she concedes I am not the man she fell in love with anymore... what I endured has changed me, and not even slightly for the better Jan 31 23:03:39 You have not considered doing that? Jan 31 23:04:16 Why would I tell you that? Jan 31 23:04:53 The future of our family matters Jan 31 23:06:53 I dragged Molly back to Sudlachenburg after convincing her that I needed her... I convinced her to accept the situation that you came up with... I will not abandon her. Jan 31 23:07:51 If you are only with her through obligation, maybe it would be better to start over with a properly noble wife Jan 31 23:08:03 * Morgan shrugs Jan 31 23:08:06 Maybe a Hapsburg Jan 31 23:08:27 Her father would never accept you Jan 31 23:09:37 Her father is no fool... a Veisgraf as opposed to a spare... she'd be a Grafin. Jan 31 23:10:33 Graben needs a Freiarr. Your title wouldn't sway them Jan 31 23:11:06 * Morgan shrugs Jan 31 23:11:11 Sounds like you've got a plan... Jan 31 23:12:18 My plan for me is to see DeeDee relieved of this duty, Lina and the children safe, and then marry Mina in Graben. I've sacrificed enough of my life for your mistake Jan 31 23:12:49 * Morgan glances at him, smiling Jan 31 23:14:37 You have a duty to lead Sudlachenburg according to the ways of our world. Now it is time for you to be that man Jan 31 23:15:22 You love your betrothed? Jan 31 23:15:32 I do Jan 31 23:15:37 good... good... Jan 31 23:15:47 Why? Jan 31 23:16:00 * Morgan takes out his flask, sipping at it Jan 31 23:17:02 Good to know... Jan 31 23:17:23 * Edward 's eyes narrow, voice lowering Jan 31 23:17:35 You will leave her alone. Jan 31 23:18:12 * Morgan sips his flask again before putting it away Jan 31 23:19:12 Answer my question, what are you planning to do with Lina and the children? Jan 31 23:19:19 Sounds... like... a... plan... Jan 31 23:19:39 Yes, it is a plan. Jan 31 23:19:56 * Morgan nods, looking down the garden Jan 31 23:20:50 * Morgan clears his throat Jan 31 23:22:17 Why should I explain -my- plan to you, when your plans always seem to go awry? Perhaps you are bad luck... perhaps your choice to take action instead of coming to me as any would expect a good brother to, is the reason all of these meticulously laid plans go to pieces... Jan 31 23:23:11 -you- betrayed us, Morgan. How could I have faith in you to do the right thing then? Jan 31 23:23:50 * Morgan opens his mouth, turning to check no-one is around before looking back to him Jan 31 23:24:06 *its all empty* Jan 31 23:24:40 Hang on... you think... you thought I -betrayed- you? Jan 31 23:25:15 Absolutely. You betrayed the honourable name of our family Jan 31 23:25:50 * Morgan stares at him, open mouthed Jan 31 23:26:15 * Edward looks completely sincere Jan 31 23:26:24 Holy... shit... Jan 31 23:26:55 You had finally seen the light? Jan 31 23:27:42 Tell me... were your actions solely to protect your reputation, or to punish me as well? Jan 31 23:28:17 Neither Jan 31 23:28:55 I don't believe you Jan 31 23:29:32 * Edward lights up a cigar Jan 31 23:30:07 Do you remember the freiarrdom of Karlsruhe? Jan 31 23:30:16 vaguely Jan 31 23:33:39 When they got annexed right after the truce, the soldiers sent in destroyed the town, murdered the children of the Freiarr in the streets as well as raping and killing the townspeople. When they got hold of the Freiarrin, there were a whole group of them who took turns raping and humiliating her. Then they left her alive, traumatised and surrounded Jan 31 23:33:40 by her dead children. She threw herself from the top of the castle. He returned home to find her final note saying she wouldn't bring him the shame of having a wife who had been used like that. Jan 31 23:34:24 And, what, you thought our allies would do that to Sudlachenburg? Jan 31 23:35:43 Allies, enemies. There were active plans to take us, because they thought we were weak. Our Father couldn't even control his own -son-, and our land was healthier than most Jan 31 23:36:33 * Morgan is suddenly unnaturally still Jan 31 23:36:49 Why didn't you include -your- Graf in your plan? Jan 31 23:37:19 Because I didn't trust him. You know what happens when he gets enthusiastic Jan 31 23:37:32 about... Jan 31 23:38:38 Anything. But he would have tried to take over, and his contacts are not as flexible or unremarkable as mine. He has no man like DeeDee would could step up Jan 31 23:39:29 So... to be clear... you took a tactical decision that involved taking action within the Grafdom, without the knowledge of your ruler, against the Grafdom's Veisgraf... Jan 31 23:40:45 I did the only thing I could when my superiors has shown themselves unable to do the right thing. Just like your rifle chap. Jan 31 23:42:28 Mmhmmm mmhmm... first, I faced a heavy punishment for the actions I took. I trust you are prepared to do the same... second, and I'd have to check this with a solicitor but, my superior charged me with mutiny which, again, I'd need to check, when it comes to a Grafdom is... treason. Jan 31 23:43:30 * Edward nods, inhaling from the cigar and exhaling a plume of smoke Jan 31 23:44:02 If it costs my life to have saved our homeland, so be it. It is a sacrifice I can make. Jan 31 23:45:10 Treason... Edward... treason... but -I- betrayed you by falling in love and marrying out of protocol. Jan 31 23:46:51 You should have been stripped of your title and status for it. Father should have banished you. You damaged the Koertig name throughout Eisen. Jan 31 23:47:40 You -shamed- our name, and all of Eisen. Jan 31 23:49:07 * Edward shakes his head "your wife is alive, -not- gang raped by soldiers. As is your daughter. You put them in that danger, not me" Jan 31 23:50:24 Does that help you sleep at night, knowing -you- betrayed all of us? Jan 31 23:52:00 I sleep better knowing Mother's brutalised body was not found at the foot of Die Dauerhaftigkeit's walls. Jan 31 23:52:13 * Morgan flinches Jan 31 23:52:51 Oh, when father puts two and two together, you'll be stripped of -your- title and status... Hapsburg wouldn't spit on you if you were on fire which, I'm told, happens... Jan 31 23:54:43 And I will go to my grave knowing that Sudlachenburg and its people, -all- of them, are alive and safe because of me. I will have honoured our great ancestors. *he looks at him* ask yourself, Morgan, have you? Jan 31 23:54:57 * Morgan smiles at him Jan 31 23:56:08 Your grave? No no no, you'll live a long life, destitute, shunned by -eveyrone- you love, and those of us you don't. *he sniffs* assuming of course word gets out... Jan 31 23:58:26 Threaten me as you wish, but understand that you owe me. I saved your wife and children when you wouldn't even see what was coming for them