**** BEGIN LOGGING AT Tue Nov 14 00:24:21 2023 Nov 14 00:24:21 * Morgan has quit (Quit: This computer has gone to sleep) Nov 14 15:03:51 * Morgan (~mads@192.168.1.117) has joined Nov 14 15:38:41 * Molly (~u931732@192.168.1.127) has joined Nov 14 15:40:33 *Uinise and Claudia are going to her shack, but take the way they’ve come, leaving Morgan to take the path that goes past the clearing. The cart driver is ready, complete with the furniture he’s made, covered with a sheet Nov 14 15:42:24 * Morgan rides ahead of the cart, looking around as he does Nov 14 15:43:13 *Nothing has changed Nov 14 15:46:27 *He’s ridden this way for so many years that the trees themselves are familiar. He passes both turn offs before reaching the western edge of the village, turning right towards Ottos cottage. The last time he was here was to discover the news that Sascha was pregnant, and to see how they had started to remove their shrine to Dietlinde and Jana. Outside the cottage he knows so well, he can see Otto stood on a barrel hammering the wood of the windowsill that w Nov 14 15:46:34 * Molly is now known as Otto Nov 14 15:48:01 * Otto looks well, strongly and sprightly, in good health for a man around fifty, and nothing like the hunched, coughing invalid he reconnected with almost a year ago. He calls on hearing footsteps “Hand me the mallet, David Nov 14 15:48:40 * Morgan reigns in, climbing down and walking toward the cottage Nov 14 15:49:32 *David Forrester is there, and does hand him the mallet, neither his first or second father in law seeing him* Nov 14 15:49:50 * Morgan watches them for a couple of moments before moving closer Nov 14 15:50:08 *They seem very friendly, working on the house together* Nov 14 15:50:58 * Morgan smiles a little, putting on a decidedly eastern Eisen accent Nov 14 15:51:45 A'scuse me gent'men, do. 'e know where I migh' be fin'in Otto? Nov 14 15:52:45 That’s me, what do you need? Nov 14 15:53:09 *David turns, seeing Morgan and inclining his head* Nov 14 15:53:17 * Morgan nods slightly, smiling Nov 14 15:54:07 I 'ear 'e's got some noble wossname looking' t'speak t'im Nov 14 15:55:43 * Otto is muffled, nails in his mouth Nov 14 15:55:54 whosat thun? Nov 14 15:56:17 *David just smiles* Nov 14 15:56:22 Some wossname from the big 'ouse Nov 14 15:56:54 canya ‘old on a minute? Nov 14 15:57:10 Reck'n so Nov 14 15:57:47 * Otto bangs in two more nails before patting the windowsill. Then he climbs down via a crate Nov 14 15:58:13 * Morgan looks at the window Nov 14 15:58:16 Not bad Nov 14 15:58:25 * Otto smiles, seeing Morgan Nov 14 15:58:48 Good afternoon, Morgan. I wasn’t expecting you Nov 14 16:00:09 * Morgan nods Nov 14 16:00:52 I'm only back for a couple of nights, bringing the Emissary from Capperlucia to meet my father, dropped James and his fiancee off in Innesbruck on the way Nov 14 16:06:27 * Otto offers his hand Nov 14 16:06:36 * Morgan shakes it firmly Nov 14 16:08:24 I've got the rattles for you... is Sascha about? There's something we need to talk about Nov 14 16:12:16 *David comes to shake his hand too* Nov 14 16:12:24 She’s inside with Martha Nov 14 16:12:27 * Morgan shakes it Nov 14 16:12:44 Ah... might be an idea for you all to hear it then... Nov 14 16:14:27 * Otto leads them indoors to the familiar cottage. Sascha is sat by the fire with her feet up sewing. She is already as big as Dietlinde was a week overdue. Martha is cleaning. They both spot him at the same time, looking so pleased to see him, a chorus of “Morgan!” Nov 14 16:14:50 * Morgan smiles, inclining his head Nov 14 16:14:52 ladies Nov 14 16:15:10 * Otto and David follow in. Martha is the first to come to hug him Nov 14 16:15:36 M: Where are Molly and Varick, are they with you? Nov 14 16:16:29 No, they've stayed home... there's a lot needs doing, and with Molly being away next week, I wanted them to have some time together... Nov 14 16:17:00 M: Where is she going? Nov 14 16:17:19 She's going to spend a little time with Inga and Mina in Freiburg, shopping Nov 14 16:19:01 * Otto offers his hand to help Sascha out of the chair. They have new chairs now, no longer the ones he got them as the bride price. The only remaining reminder of his first wife is the painting of her and Jana. The charred frame has been removed and replaced, and it looks to have been professionally restored to removed the soot, making the image crisper and brighter Nov 14 16:19:12 M: she’ll enjoy that Nov 14 16:19:37 * Morgan nods Nov 14 16:20:11 I think so, yes... there's a couple of things I need to tell you and then... I've got a little something for Sascha and Otto Nov 14 16:21:14 *Sascha comes to hug him. She’s so big, and never particularly tall, that she has to hug him around the waist. He gets some strong kicks against him Nov 14 16:21:26 Hello, Morgan, how are you all? Nov 14 16:21:30 S:* Nov 14 16:21:31 * Morgan hugs her gently Nov 14 16:21:47 I'm alright Sascha... you fed up with waddling yet? Nov 14 16:22:15 *Sascha nods* A little, I wasn’t this big with Dietlinde even at the end Nov 14 16:23:00 No,she never got this big either Nov 14 16:24:00 *She lets go* No, she had the advantage of being taller, there’s more space to hide them away then Nov 14 16:24:48 * Morgan nods Nov 14 16:25:15 Don't think I've been kicked that hard since I saw Xantha when I came back from Avalon Nov 14 16:26:07 *This makes the others laugh. He’s offered a seat and tea or coffee* Nov 14 16:26:20 * Morgan sits down, asking for coffee Nov 14 16:26:30 They are certainly active babies. Dietlinde was much more placid Nov 14 16:26:35 O:* Nov 14 16:26:52 * Morgan nods Nov 14 16:27:10 That carried on into life. Nov 14 16:27:31 *Sascha sits down* She had an inner serenity, didn’t she, and such a level-head Nov 14 16:29:10 * Morgan nods Nov 14 16:32:07 * Otto smiles “I think maybe being with you was the only thing she ever did that wasn’t level-headed, but that’s what love will do” Nov 14 16:32:27 * Morgan nods Nov 14 16:32:33 Yes... I suppose so Nov 14 16:34:25 I've got a couple of things I need to tell you... one of them won't be easy I'm afraid... Nov 14 16:35:12 *Martha makes the drinks as if she’s as comfortable in this house as in her own, and Otto gets the stool under Sascha’s feet. David gets the fire a bit warmer. soon they’re all sat down and ready Nov 14 16:35:21 Go on, Morgan Nov 14 16:35:48 Alright... first, the easy part... we have adopted again. We have a little boy called Emil who will be getting baptised along with Varick Nov 14 16:37:55 *David does an admirable job of pretending he doesn’t know, not that one would notice it over the excited squealing of the women anyway* Nov 14 16:38:26 M: My Molly is a Mother again?! *she’s clearly thrilled* Nov 14 16:38:34 * Morgan nods Nov 14 16:39:34 In Capperlucia they have herbs that allow the body to nurse children not born to them... she has been doing that with Emil, as with any child she had birthed... thats also partly why she isn't here, to let the boys settle in a little Nov 14 16:40:37 *Martha does look ever so slightly sad at this, but she tries to conceal it* That’s very special, she must have a strong bond with him Nov 14 16:41:27 * Morgan nods Nov 14 16:41:31 You're going to adore him Nov 14 16:41:51 *Sascha gives her a look conveying understanding and support before say8ng* Congratulations, Morgan, you must be thrilled Nov 14 16:43:07 * Morgan nods Nov 14 16:43:15 Thank you Nov 14 16:44:23 D: How Old is he, Morgan? Nov 14 16:44:37 Just shy of a year Nov 14 16:46:53 *The women both Awwww* Nov 14 16:46:59 M: Just a baby! Nov 14 16:47:06 * Morgan nods Nov 14 16:47:27 We've seen him start to crawl... he's such a sweet little boy Nov 14 16:47:46 Varick is taking his role as a big brother very seriously... they're adorable together Nov 14 16:47:50 Sascha smiles: You must miss him terribly Nov 14 16:48:47 Both of them, yes Nov 14 16:50:07 *Martha smiles at David* You’re a grandpa again Nov 14 16:50:52 *David nods, smiling* I am. He is the... *he tries to count* Nov 14 16:51:27 M: Tenth, David. Nov 14 16:51:40 *he nods, smiling* The tenth, yes Nov 14 16:52:42 * Morgan smiles a little Nov 14 16:53:16 S: Almost as many grandchildren as children you had Nov 14 16:53:57 *Martha smiles* Hopefully it won’t be too long before we hit that number... *she watches Morgan with hopefulness* Nov 14 16:54:22 Not yet mama... soon, I think Nov 14 16:55:14 *Martha nods* I can’t wait to meet our dear little Emil! does the name have significance for you? Nov 14 16:55:49 His name before we adopted him was Amir... its a little more Eisen without being unrecognisable to him Nov 14 16:56:22 Sascha: Amir is very foreign-sounding, isn’t it? Nov 14 16:58:05 His birth father is from the Empire of the crescent moon... Nov 14 16:59:22 Is that why you are baptising him? Nov 14 17:01:04 Its my responsibility to raise my children as objectionist... Nov 14 17:01:23 * Otto nods Nov 14 17:01:55 S: They’re heathens in the Empire Of The Cresent Moon, aren’t they? Nov 14 17:02:44 I've no idea what their faith is and, frankly, I don't care. I'm not an intolerant person but the way they treat women... its abhorrent Nov 14 17:05:48 M: what do they do? Nov 14 17:06:09 They treat them as property, as slaves. Nov 14 17:07:56 S: awful... Nov 14 17:08:02 * Otto nods Nov 14 17:08:26 * Morgan nods Nov 14 17:09:44 His birth mother is the wife of a friend of mine who had gone missing years ago and lost her memory. Essentialy I had to buy her to take her home to her husband Nov 14 17:10:18 *they all look horrified by it* Nov 14 17:11:46 Still... the situation has ended the best I can make of it Nov 14 17:12:04 M: is she safely home now? Nov 14 17:12:15 * Morgan nods Nov 14 17:12:31 Managed to have her healed, her amnesia gone and back in her position in Capperlucia Nov 14 17:13:41 D: A successful mission then Nov 14 17:14:41 * Morgan nods Nov 14 17:14:48 And the people got their queen back Nov 14 17:15:51 *they all nod* Nov 14 17:16:05 S: how did you end up with the baby? Nov 14 17:17:15 We spent a lot of time caring for him, spending time with his mother... when her memory was returned, it was like she was a different person, and Emil was very bonded to us already. So we petitioned her to allow us to adopt him, for his sake, and for hers Nov 14 17:18:20 *they all smile* Nov 14 17:18:37 M: I imagine Molly is absolutely dotty over him! Nov 14 17:18:46 * Morgan nods Nov 14 17:18:49 besotted Nov 14 17:20:32 S: Is he an easy baby? Nov 14 17:20:51 * Morgan nods Nov 14 17:21:14 He is... aside from any time he spends time away from Molly, the second he sees her he starts crying like he thought she was never coming back Nov 14 17:23:07 D: Most of ours did that Nov 14 17:24:42 * Morgan nods Nov 14 17:24:50 It was quite upsetting the first few times Nov 14 17:25:42 D: You have to not take it personally Nov 14 17:26:01 * Morgan nods Nov 14 17:26:26 When we spend time together he stares at me like he adores me, so I can take it Nov 14 17:27:25 * Otto nods Nov 14 17:27:55 I remember the first time Dietlinde did that, it was me of the best moments of my life Nov 14 17:28:49 * Morgan nods Nov 14 17:29:01 There's quite a bit of peace in it, I think Nov 14 17:29:31 * Otto nods “I’m glad to be doing it again Nov 14 17:29:56 * Morgan smiles, nodding Nov 14 17:30:03 I am very happy for you Nov 14 17:30:16 *Sascha smiles at Otto, and they still look very in love, perhaps even more than when he first met them* Nov 14 17:32:20 * Morgan smiles, watching them for a moment and sipping his coffee Nov 14 17:32:40 *he can see the babies moving* Nov 14 17:32:54 Alive little ones aren't they Nov 14 17:33:54 Sascha: They’re both very busy, I think they’re running out of space Nov 14 17:34:09 * Morgan nods Nov 14 17:34:17 They'll be playing get off the bed soon then Nov 14 17:34:41 O: what is that? Nov 14 17:35:29 Something HeinzHarold and I played... its just shouting get off the bed while trying to shove eachother off Nov 14 17:35:39 Dislocated my finger last time we played it Nov 14 17:36:37 David: boys will be boys! Nov 14 17:36:47 * Morgan nods Nov 14 17:36:51 Molly was rather dismayed Nov 14 17:39:33 M: *she watches him as a dismayed mother might* How recently was this? Nov 14 17:39:52 Well... we were in Graben... Nov 14 17:42:42 M: In the winter, as grown ups? Nov 14 17:42:55 adults... not grown ups. Nov 14 17:43:12 *This makes everyone laugh* Nov 14 17:44:22 * Morgan smiles Nov 14 17:44:49 Shall we get the difficult conversation out of the way? Then, if you'd like, I can give you the thing I brought for you... Nov 14 17:45:59 *they all nod* Nov 14 17:46:26 * Morgan nods, sipping his coffee Nov 14 17:46:51 After the fire, Edward and I fought as is common knowledge... he went off overseas to get his nose fixed... Nov 14 17:50:01 *they nod again. They all look serious, no one knowing that Edward had deserved it* Nov 14 17:50:47 While he was travelling he had... an indiscretion with an Avalonian woman, and she caught pregnant, though he had no idea... Nov 14 17:53:56 *David looks deeply disapproving, as does Martha* D: He shouldn’t have done that Nov 14 17:54:15 No... but grief affects us all differently. Nov 14 17:56:47 M: Why did this woman allow that? Was she a prostitute? Nov 14 17:57:03 No... they just hit it off. It happens. Nov 14 17:58:35 M: Well it should not. It’s not decent. Nov 14 17:59:41 * Morgan shrugs Nov 14 18:00:16 For the most part that isn't my problem. What -is- my problem was that I encountered this woman and her child while we were in Avalon hunting someone down Nov 14 18:00:47 *they all nod* Nov 14 18:01:50 Now, as is -right- I have arranged for Edward to meet his child... his daughter. We have become friends with Alice, and, to facilitate all this, she has journeyed with us and is staying at Hafenlohr... Nov 14 18:04:33 M: You’ve become friends with such a woman?! Nov 14 18:05:19 Mama... I love you, but you're being provincial Nov 14 18:05:29 *David gently strokes her arm* Nov 14 18:06:32 M: I will kept it to myself then. Nov 14 18:07:31 I understand your feelings on it... but Alice is a lovely woman, and very much needs friends. And her child is family, and she needs love. Nov 14 18:09:22 *Martha says no more* Nov 14 18:09:42 I don’t understand why this is a problem to us, Morgan Nov 14 18:11:31 She will be at the baptism and, likely, to be visiting here... I discovered them because of how his daughter looks... Nov 14 18:11:58 David: She looks like her Father? Nov 14 18:12:11 * Morgan shakes his head, looking serious Nov 14 18:12:16 She looks like my daughter Nov 14 18:14:21 *Sascha looks horrified, but Otto asks* How much like her? Nov 14 18:14:32 * Morgan looks at his cup Nov 14 18:14:42 If her eyes are closed, I couldn't have told the difference Nov 14 18:15:55 *Sascha puts her head in her hands, starting to sob. Otto immediately gets up to put his arms around her, but he looks deeply hurt too* Nov 14 18:20:29 * Morgan watches them for a moment Nov 14 18:20:57 If... if its alright with you... I'd like to give you some comfort... Nov 14 18:21:49 * Otto nods Nov 14 18:22:19 * Morgan moves to kneeling on the floor, putting arm around Sascha, the other on Otto's shoulder Nov 14 18:23:59 *Sascha moves a little so she’s crying on Morgan’s shoulder, her arms around his neck. Otto puts a comforting hand on the back of Morgan’s head whilst rubbing his wife’s back* Nov 14 18:27:32 * Morgan holds on to them quietly Nov 14 18:27:57 I'm sorry... I know its so hard to hear, but I couldn't bear the thought of you seeing her without forewarning Nov 14 18:28:09 The shock and pain of that is... unbearable Nov 14 18:39:43 *both of them nod at this. he can hear Martha getting glasses* Nov 14 18:42:54 * Morgan stays where he is Nov 14 18:43:41 *Sascha continues to cry. Otto looks at the portrait on the wall, utterly silent Nov 14 18:44:55 * Morgan closes his eyes, for once not keeping an eye on those around him Nov 14 18:46:23 *he doesn’t see Martha come to rub his own back, but the movement of it is exactly like Molly has done when he’s cried in her arms* Nov 14 18:47:26 I'm sorry Nov 14 18:47:49 O: it’s not your fault, Morgan Nov 14 18:48:15 Even so. I hate bringing you hurt Nov 14 18:49:08 *Sascha holds him tight* I’m... sorry... for... you... too Nov 14 18:49:31 * Morgan nods, leaning his face against her, trying not to cry Nov 14 18:50:36 *With all the instinctive empathy of a mother, she says “it’s... okay.... Morgan” Nov 14 18:51:13 * Morgan nods slightly, holding on to her Nov 14 18:52:34 *Sascha starts to stroke his hair maternally* Nov 14 18:53:51 * Morgan breathes slowly letting Sascha get out her tears Nov 14 18:54:52 *she seems more intent on soothing. the pregnancy smell is comforting rather than arousing* Nov 14 18:55:51 * Morgan sighs Nov 14 18:56:51 s: you poor thing... Nov 14 18:57:14 I wasn't alone... It was hard but... I managed Nov 14 18:58:20 M: *martha is rubbing his back still* how are you now with it? Nov 14 18:59:22 Most of the time, I'm ok... its been so very difficult but... she is quite attached to me, and thats made it harder, but, most of the time... every now and then, though, its like getting kicked in the chest Nov 14 19:00:28 What do you want us to do about it? Nov 14 19:00:54 * Morgan shrugs Nov 14 19:01:16 I can ask my parents to let you know if they are to bring her to town so you don't have to see her... I just wanted you to not be taken unawares Nov 14 19:01:42 S: is she as beautiful as Jana was? Nov 14 19:01:53 * Morgan nods Nov 14 19:02:25 She's a very different little girl, aside from her looks, but at that age there will of course be similarities... and she is such a sweet girl Nov 14 19:03:23 D: She must be... M: Two and Three Quarters, David *he nods* Almost three? Nov 14 19:03:50 * Morgan nods, frowning a little Nov 14 19:03:52 aye Nov 14 19:04:14 S: we’ll have to see... how she would... have grown? Nov 14 19:05:00 I... I don't know what will happen... she will visit us on their way to visit Edward in future but, that doesn't mean they'll come -here- Nov 14 19:05:33 How can she be identical? You are only brothers. Nov 14 19:06:04 I've wondered if it is some cruel cosmic joke. But the fact remains, save for her eyes.... Nov 14 19:07:33 * Otto shakes his head “I for one do not want to see her.” Nov 14 19:08:26 * Morgan nods Nov 14 19:08:50 I understand. I will have my father make you aware if she is to visit so you can all take precautions Nov 14 19:12:16 I think that is for the best. I don’t want Sascha upset like this again when she is in a delicate state Nov 14 19:12:36 No, no, of course Nov 14 19:14:53 * Otto nods, standing to take a glass from David who then offers Morgan one Nov 14 19:15:11 * Morgan takes it, thanking him Nov 14 19:17:54 *it’s whiskey. Sascha is given a small glass too, sitting back in her seat. She looks upset still* Nov 14 19:18:09 * Otto stands behind her chair protectively Nov 14 19:19:24 * Morgan swirls the liquid, watching it Nov 14 19:20:23 We will not be coming to the baptisms. Not because of the child, but because it’s too much risk to the babies Nov 14 19:20:49 * Morgan nods, looking at him seriously Nov 14 19:21:11 I would understand either reason. I would like you to meet my boys, when I bring them here... Nov 14 19:22:25 * Otto smiles “We’d like that, wouldn’t we, Sash?” Nov 14 19:22:57 *Sascha nods* I made Varick a sash for the baptism, the Grafin asked if I would Nov 14 19:23:52 * Morgan nods, taking her hands Nov 14 19:24:01 Thank you. That means the world to me Nov 14 19:25:19 *Sascha smiles faintly, squeezing them* I would like to make one for Emil Nov 14 19:25:28 * Morgan nods Nov 14 19:25:32 I would like that very much Nov 14 19:28:09 * Otto rubs her shoulder “I’ll get it” Nov 14 19:29:33 * Otto goes to a drawer, fetching out something light blue and bringing it to Sascha. She thanks him before giving it to Morgan Nov 14 19:30:55 * Morgan looks it over Nov 14 19:31:03 Thats perfect, Thank you Nov 14 19:33:10 *when he turns it, he sees the thin line about an inch high along the middle of the sash, the white lace of Jana’s christening gown* Nov 14 19:33:26 * Morgan says 'oh' very quietly Nov 14 19:34:13 *Sascha puts a hand gently on his shoulder* I have more of it for Emil too Nov 14 19:34:27 * Morgan nods, not looking away from it Nov 14 19:34:33 Thank you Nov 14 19:35:29 *She nods* There’ll be enough for some decoration to a newborn gown, if you want one Nov 14 19:35:47 * Morgan nods Nov 14 19:35:53 I think we will, yes Nov 14 19:36:38 *She smiles* if you want someone else to make it, maybe from Freiburg or wherever, that’s fine Nov 14 19:36:50 Why would I ever want that? Nov 14 19:37:15 S: I wouldn’t want to be intruding on your future Nov 14 19:37:27 * Morgan frowns, looking up at her Nov 14 19:37:38 Never -ever- think that is the case. Nov 14 19:38:58 S: It’s still difficult sometimes. I’m happy for you, but you don’t need us reminding you of the old days now Nov 14 19:39:36 Me searches her gaze Nov 14 19:40:03 You would wish me to distance myself, stop reminding you of the old days? Nov 14 19:42:14 *Sascha shakes her head* No. The babies are going to need to hear your memories of their sister too Nov 14 19:43:17 Then I do not wish you do feel that you should distance yourself from me. I will love you all until the day I am no longer here, and that is simply all there is to it. Nov 14 19:44:12 *Sascha hugs him again, and again the belly that once contained the wife he had loved so deeply stirs against him* Nov 14 19:44:27 * Morgan holds on to her for a moment Nov 14 19:44:39 Could you possibly tell your children to stop kicking me for a moment... its most distracting Nov 14 19:50:05 Sascha: Sorry, they don’t really stop Nov 14 19:50:19 * Morgan nods Nov 14 19:50:26 I,ummm... I have a couple of things for you Nov 14 19:51:49 *She lets go* Nov 14 19:52:06 You didn’t need to bring us anything Nov 14 19:52:34 * Morgan shrugs Nov 14 19:52:44 I wanted to... I wanted to be of some help Nov 14 19:55:34 Sascha: What is it? Nov 14 19:55:52 Its outside Nov 14 19:57:37 * Otto helps her up, and they all go outside Nov 14 19:58:04 * Morgan looks to David Nov 14 19:58:11 Give me a hand with the sheet? Nov 14 19:58:30 *David goes to do so* Nov 14 19:58:47 * Morgan works with him to get the cribs and chair down Nov 14 19:59:29 S: Oh Morgan! you didn’t have to buy so much for us! Nov 14 20:00:24 All I bought was the wood... Nov 14 20:01:31 * Otto comes to have a look at them Nov 14 20:02:20 These are excellent Nov 14 20:03:45 Thank you Nov 14 20:14:26 Sascha: *she looks emotional* you made them for our babies?! Nov 14 20:14:37 * Morgan nods Nov 14 20:14:43 Varick and HeinzHarold helped some too Nov 14 20:16:32 I was captaining the Rose on the way back from Capperlucia, and... well, between shifts, I was mostly working on these Nov 14 20:17:29 Sascha: you are so kind, thank you Nov 14 20:18:07 If... if they aren't to your liking, or not suitable, I will not be angry if you wish to pass them on... Nov 14 20:19:44 S: No, they’re lovely! Nov 14 20:19:58 * Otto smiles “We’re very grateful to you, Morgan” Nov 14 20:20:28 You've no need to be... you'd do the same for me... oh... there's these too... Nov 14 20:20:43 * Morgan takes the two rattles from his pockets, pressing them into Sascha's hands Nov 14 20:21:06 *she sobs, hugging him again* Nov 14 20:21:34 * Morgan hugs her, shushing her quietly Nov 14 20:21:38 Its alright... Nov 14 20:21:51 S: Thank you Nov 14 20:22:15 * Morgan nods, looking to Otto Nov 14 20:22:38 * Otto smiles “thanks” Nov 14 20:22:55 I smoothed off an edge on it... Jana cracked me in the temple with it, right on the corner... these don't have that edge Nov 14 20:23:36 * Otto nods “probably best” Nov 14 20:24:28 * Morgan nods, smiling slightly Nov 14 20:25:11 S: Do you want to take them upstairs? Nov 14 20:25:43 You're not planning to make the baerns sleep out here? *he sighs dramatically* best take them in then Nov 14 20:31:32 *Otto nods. he and David take one crib up, and Martha insists on helping Morgan with the other. He’d only been up to Dietlinde’s room once, two days after the wedding when they’d come to collect more of her things. The tiny room was such a far cry from his room in the Big House, but it was cosy and homely, lots of sewn decorations from the ceiling, cushions and things. MTF Nov 14 20:32:22 He’d taken a kiss (Stolen would be the wrong word as it was so freely given), just a little peck on the lips, but they’d gone back down stairs with a little marital secret, marked by shared smiles. Now the room stands empty, aside from the first crib. Martha goes downstairs, leaving him alone a moment Nov 14 20:32:56 * Morgan stands quietly, looking round the room Nov 14 20:34:26 *he very vaguely remembers her saying there was a loose floorboard by the window, she’d had to avoid it on the Boxing Day morning he’d taken the sewing box so she could quietly open the window to see him Nov 14 20:34:51 * Morgan moves to it, pressing it lightly Nov 14 20:35:14 *it does move a little* Nov 14 20:35:27 * Morgan crouches down to see if it'll come up Nov 14 20:35:44 *it feels like it will* Nov 14 20:35:51 * Morgan tries Nov 14 20:36:27 *there’s something wrapped in fabric in there* Nov 14 20:36:36 * Morgan frowns, taking it out Nov 14 20:36:53 *it has a solid weight to it* Nov 14 20:37:05 * Morgan unwraps it Nov 14 20:38:44 *It is the cup he thought they must have accidental left in the forest on their first date, the one where he’d half-inched cups and a teapot so he could make her the smokey tea to try. Even seven years on, he can very faintly smell it* Nov 14 20:39:41 * Morgan slowly moves to the wall, sliding down it as he starts sobbing silently Nov 14 20:40:17 *he isn’t disturbed by anyone* Nov 14 20:40:52 * Morgan wraps it back up, putting it in his pocket before replacing the floorboard Nov 14 20:41:54 *he hears Otto say* I’ve got it, David Nov 14 20:42:22 * Morgan wipes his face to dry it before going to help them Nov 14 20:46:06 *they get the chair in with no issue, and the room seems not so empty* Nov 14 20:47:51 thats... better. Nov 14 20:48:03 * Otto nods Nov 14 20:48:24 it is. A few finishing touches and it’ll be ready Nov 14 20:50:15 * Morgan nods Nov 14 20:52:14 * Otto nods, looking around “hard to believe we first did this more than twenty years ago” Nov 14 20:52:44 * Morgan nods, checking no-one is in earshot Nov 14 20:53:36 *they seem to be chatting downstairs* Nov 14 20:53:45 Otto... is David alright? Nov 14 20:53:59 Yes, I believe so. why? Nov 14 20:54:26 Never known him to struggle with remembering numbers, thats all. I'll ask mama... Nov 14 20:56:02 * Otto shrugs “I can’t say I’d noticed” Nov 14 20:56:09 * Morgan nods Nov 14 20:56:48 The bases of these cribs... they can move up and down.... I saw it in Capperlucia, thought it might be useful... Nov 14 20:58:52 Do you want to show me now, or will you be back after the baptisms? Nov 14 20:59:08 * Morgan smiles, showing him how to move them Nov 14 20:59:39 I think Molly wants to be here for the birth... Nov 14 20:59:52 * Otto nods thoughtfully Nov 14 21:00:00 Just incase... Nov 14 21:00:09 * Morgan nods Nov 14 21:00:57 Though... I think there is also the fact she desperately wants to make peace with Sascha Nov 14 21:02:24 * Otto nods Nov 14 21:02:42 That is mutual Nov 14 21:02:54 * Morgan nods Nov 14 21:02:58 A good starting point then... Nov 14 21:03:21 * Otto nods Nov 14 21:03:57 I’ll talk to Sascha about it, and ask Martha to pass it along Nov 14 21:04:39 * Morgan nods, looking round the room and taking a deep breath Nov 14 21:04:44 Alright. Nov 14 21:04:52 * Otto looks around too Nov 14 21:05:10 it really feels like she’s gone on now Nov 14 21:05:57 She wasn't here, Otto... she was loved so profoundly, she had nothing she needed to do... she's been at rest this whole time. Nov 14 21:07:12 oh I know that, but in me. I’m able to not worry at the wound like I was, and let the time heal as it needs Nov 14 21:08:06 * Morgan nods Nov 14 21:08:37 A phrase I have used... I've finally stopped clinging to the pain, the grief... I've stopped letting it define me. Nov 14 21:08:44 * Otto nods Nov 14 21:09:43 She didn’t get cross often, but if she thought for a moment I’d be so busy grieving her that I’d be not giving my all to her mother and siblings, she’d have been livid Nov 14 21:09:55 * Morgan nods Nov 14 21:10:29 Yes, she would Nov 14 21:11:30 * Otto puts a hand on his upper arm, looking at him. It’s quite paternal “And that goes for you too. She wouldn’t want you missing a thing, or not giving your children everything you gave Jana* Nov 14 21:12:32 * Morgan nods Nov 14 21:12:48 No... Nov 14 21:13:23 Varick talks about Jana... says she's his sister in heaven... Nov 14 21:14:09 * Otto nods “that’s a nice way to think about it” Nov 14 21:15:25 I cant imagine having come this far without him Nov 14 21:16:04 * Otto nods Nov 14 21:16:12 Fatherhood always suited you Nov 14 21:17:00 It certainly satisfies a yearning in me Nov 14 21:18:19 * Otto nods Nov 14 21:18:47 You’re a much healthier man than a year ago Nov 14 21:19:14 * Morgan smiles Nov 14 21:19:17 So are you... Nov 14 21:20:36 * Otto smiles Nov 14 21:20:45 both os us for the same reason, I think Nov 14 21:21:06 At least partly, yes... Nov 14 21:22:46 * Otto nods Nov 14 21:23:01 I imagine you’re missing her Nov 14 21:23:08 * Morgan nods Nov 14 21:23:26 I am, yes. My nightmares tend to be worse when I sleep alone Nov 14 21:23:39 * Otto nods Nov 14 21:24:20 *Martha calls up to ask if they want tea or coffee* Nov 14 21:25:22 I think I'd better be going... I've disrupted your day enough and I have to go and do something terrifying... Nov 14 21:26:21 what is that? Nov 14 21:26:37 Explain to HeinzHarolds ma why he hasn't come to see her Nov 14 21:26:46 * Otto grimaces Nov 14 21:27:02 you’re right, that is terrifying Nov 14 21:27:19 * Morgan smiles, heading down the stairs Nov 14 21:27:28 * Otto follows on with a chuckle Nov 14 21:27:54 * Morgan goes to Sascha Nov 14 21:28:19 *Sascha is stood by the painting, looking at the faces both he and she loved so dearly* Nov 14 21:28:53 * Morgan looks up at the painting Nov 14 21:29:19 She'd be so happy to see where you are now... Nov 14 21:30:03 * Otto takes his hand, smiling gently as she pats it “And you” Nov 14 21:30:09 * Otto is now known as Sascha Nov 14 21:30:26 * Morgan nods Nov 14 21:30:30 I think so Nov 14 21:30:45 when will you be back in Sudlachenburg? Nov 14 21:32:04 Well... see, Molly was wondering if you'd consider her helping with the birth... Nov 14 21:33:14 can I think about it? Nov 14 21:33:40 * Morgan smiles Nov 14 21:34:13 Of course. She cares about you, y'know. Nov 14 21:35:01 I don’t deserve it after what I did Nov 14 21:35:18 * Morgan squeezes her hand Nov 14 21:36:25 Grief affects us all differently... I'm not proud of how my grief affected me, but I deserve love and forgiveness anyway don't I? Nov 14 21:37:20 * Sascha nods Nov 14 21:37:31 But if she’d been carrying a child... Nov 14 21:40:16 But she wasn't. She has forgiven you and wishes you both put it behind you Nov 14 21:41:10 * Sascha nods Nov 14 21:41:28 You will always be a part of my life, as will she, and she wishes to be part of including you in it Nov 14 21:42:18 * Sascha nods, squeezing gently Nov 14 21:42:33 Alright Nov 14 21:47:22 I love you very much Nov 14 21:47:42 * Sascha smiles “I do you too” Nov 14 21:49:12 * Morgan smiles, kissing her cheek Nov 14 21:49:19 I'll come back soon, with my boys Nov 14 21:49:28 me nods Nov 14 21:49:35 I’d like that Nov 14 21:50:11 * Morgan nods, moving to shake Otto, then Davids hands before looking to Martha Nov 14 21:50:16 mama... can I talk to you a moment? Nov 14 21:51:37 * Sascha is now known as Martha Nov 14 21:51:47 * Martha steps outside with him Nov 14 21:52:02 Do you need a hug from someone not as close to it all? Nov 14 21:52:11 That would be nice Nov 14 21:52:23 * Martha hugs him Nov 14 21:52:35 * Morgan holds onto her firmly for a moment before letting go Nov 14 21:52:50 You’re missing our Moll, aren’t you? Nov 14 21:53:04 * Morgan smiles a little, nodding Nov 14 21:53:52 I feel a little... rudderless without her. Got to keep moving, getting the things done one after the other because if I stop... Nov 14 21:55:33 * Martha nods Nov 14 21:56:11 Then the whole house of cards falls, and you don’t have someone there to help pick them up Nov 14 21:56:23 * Morgan nods Nov 14 21:56:47 I'm facing hard things all on my own... things I could barely face with her by my side... Nov 14 21:57:08 it’s not the same, but you have David and I Nov 14 21:57:34 * Morgan nods Nov 14 21:57:37 Is he alright? Nov 14 21:57:55 * Martha nods Nov 14 21:58:16 He’s stopped going to Innesbruck every second minute, which is nice Nov 14 21:58:25 * Morgan nods Nov 14 21:58:41 just... you had to prompt him with numbers a few times... I've never noticed that before... Nov 14 21:58:49 * Martha smiles Nov 14 21:59:34 He’s always been dreadful with remembering all of the children, and don’t even get him started on whose birthday is when! Nov 14 21:59:52 * Morgan nods Nov 14 22:00:01 alright... good... I was a little worried for him Nov 14 22:00:09 * Martha shakes her head Nov 14 22:00:19 He’s the same old David, I promise Nov 14 22:00:28 * Morgan nods, hugging her again Nov 14 22:00:42 * Martha hugs him tightly, a mother’s hug Nov 14 22:01:35 Why don’t you try to get everything done sooner and go home to her? Nov 14 22:01:57 Because one of the things is too big to be done in a rush Nov 14 22:02:19 have you written to her? Nov 14 22:02:28 I sent her something this morning Nov 14 22:02:54 * Martha smiles “No doubt she’ll reply soon then” Nov 14 22:04:16 * Morgan nods Nov 14 22:04:30 I'd best be going... HeinzHarolds Ma can be fearsome when she's annoyed Nov 14 22:07:39 * Martha nods Nov 14 22:07:56 Send my regards, please Nov 14 22:08:02 * Morgan nods Nov 14 22:08:05 Of course Nov 14 22:09:23 * Martha lets him on his way Nov 14 22:09:44 * Morgan hauls himself into the saddle, setting off with a wave Nov 14 22:10:30 *Heinzharold’s farmstead is on the other side of town, and the church clock shows it is already almost six o’clock Nov 14 22:10:53 * Morgan mutters, climbing down and knocking on the door Nov 14 22:11:21 *The door is answered not by Emilene or Ruth, but by Grunhelm* Nov 14 22:11:40 Grunhelm... Nov 14 22:11:52 My Lord. Nov 14 22:11:57 * Martha is now known as Grunhelm Nov 14 22:12:24 * Grunhelm doesn’t so much stand in the doorway as fill it Nov 14 22:13:57 Wasn't expecting to see you here... Nov 14 22:17:22 I was just bringing Frau Heinzharold some cheese Nov 14 22:17:32 * Morgan nods Nov 14 22:17:39 I see... I see... is she around? Nov 14 22:17:52 * Grunhelm nods, letting him in Nov 14 22:18:58 *Ma is chopping carrots on the side* Nov 14 22:19:41 I hope I'm not intruding... Nov 14 22:20:05 * Grunhelm shakes his head, and bows slightly to her “I’ll bid you a good evening, madame. My Lord” Nov 14 22:20:24 * Morgan inclines his head Nov 14 22:20:49 * Grunhelm goes, gently shutting the front door Nov 14 22:20:54 * Grunhelm is now known as Ma Nov 14 22:21:13 * Ma looks to be home alone. She puts the carrot and knife down Nov 14 22:21:37 Well then, no one was expecting you so quick! Nov 14 22:21:51 * Morgan smiles Nov 14 22:21:57 I really do have the fastest ship afloat Nov 14 22:22:23 * Ma smiles, coming to give him a hug Nov 14 22:22:58 * Morgan hugs her Nov 14 22:23:24 Heinzharold seeing to the horses, is he? Nov 14 22:23:50 Well, thats why I'm here... I asked him to stay in Hafenlohr... Nov 14 22:24:12 * Ma frowns when she pulls back to look at him Nov 14 22:24:15 why? Nov 14 22:25:29 I had to bring Claudia... she's assigned as the guard of the Emissary from Capperlucia... and I wasn't willing to leave Molly, the boys, Inga and our friend unprotected in a home we've only spent a couple of nights in Nov 14 22:26:00 * Ma nods sadly Nov 14 22:26:11 That’s a shame, I do miss my boy Nov 14 22:26:35 * Morgan nods Nov 14 22:26:45 He misses you. He asked me to pass on his love Nov 14 22:27:32 * Ma nods Nov 14 22:27:43 Is he well? what about Inga? Nov 14 22:28:14 * Morgan nods Nov 14 22:29:13 They are, very well... Inga did wonderfully supporting Molly in Capperlucia and HeinzHarolds always helped me hold my course true. Nov 14 22:29:21 * Ma nods Nov 14 22:29:37 And did they find time to make me a grandbabby? Nov 14 22:30:28 I uhhh... I believe they have taken every opportunity to attempt that... Nov 14 22:31:10 * Ma giggles “That doesn’t surprise me, he’s his Father’s son” Nov 14 22:31:21 * Morgan smiles Nov 14 22:31:32 No bad thing.. he's becoming more and more like Da Nov 14 22:32:58 * Ma smiles, but there’s still a sadness to it even after nearly fourteen years of widowhood Nov 14 22:33:06 He’s a fine man Nov 14 22:33:23 * Morgan nods Nov 14 22:33:38 He definitely is... even if he is an absolute plank sometimes Nov 14 22:33:46 * Ma smiles Nov 14 22:34:01 he always has been, hasn’t he Nov 14 22:34:59 * Morgan nods Nov 14 22:35:02 Yes, he has Nov 14 22:36:13 will you stay for dinner, or are you expected? Nov 14 22:36:38 I'm expected home about twenty minutes ago, but I wasn't about to shirk this duty to tell you Nov 14 22:37:24 * Ma nods Nov 14 22:37:32 how long are you home for? Nov 14 22:38:14 Just a couple of nights... Molly and Inga are going to Freiburg to spend some time with Mina and look at dresses probably, in a few days Nov 14 22:39:47 * Ma nods Nov 14 22:40:00 how about dinner tomorrow, would you like to come then? Nov 14 22:40:10 * Morgan nods Nov 14 22:40:14 I'd like that very much Nov 14 22:40:22 * Ma smiles warmly Nov 14 22:40:26 Will... will Grunhelm be joining us? Nov 14 22:40:41 * Ma shakes her head Nov 14 22:40:48 no, I don’t think he will Nov 14 22:41:14 * Morgan nods Nov 14 22:41:22 Okay... what time should I arrive? Nov 14 22:41:41 Do you want to be cooking, or just eating? Nov 14 22:41:59 * Morgan smiles Nov 14 22:42:07 I'll hep with the cooking if its all the same to you Nov 14 22:42:11 * Ma nods Nov 14 22:42:19 I thought so. Five then Nov 14 22:42:44 * Morgan nods, hugging her again Nov 14 22:42:47 I'll see you then Nov 14 22:42:52 * Ma smiles Nov 14 22:43:15 I’ll be here Nov 14 22:43:47 * Morgan nods, going to the door Nov 14 22:43:50 Its lovely to see you Nov 14 22:44:03 And you, Morgan Nov 14 22:45:56 * Morgan smiles before heading out, closing the door behind him and hurrying to get mounted up Nov 14 22:46:21 *he can very faintly smell the smells of the cold forge* Nov 14 22:46:55 * Morgan moves Xantha close enough to look inside Nov 14 22:47:17 *It’s just as it should be, the smell stronger Nov 14 22:48:03 * Morgan slides down, going inside Nov 14 22:49:00 *There’s enough light from the door that he can see the hammers and other tools hung up, and the anvil. there’s the familiar soot underfoot Nov 14 22:49:11 * Morgan sighs Nov 14 22:49:15 We all miss you Da Nov 14 22:49:38 *it feels peaceful in here* Nov 14 22:50:11 * Morgan takes a couple of deep breaths before squaring his shoulders, heading back out to mount up Nov 14 22:53:03 *Xantha waits for him. It’s tough to know whether Claudia and Uinise will still be at the shack or at Die Dauerhaftigkeit* Nov 14 22:53:44 * Morgan sets him at a run, heading for Claudia's shack Nov 14 22:54:03 *Xantha thunders along happily* **** BEGIN LOGGING AT Tue Nov 14 23:18:13 2023 Nov 14 23:18:13 * Now talking on #7thsea Nov 14 23:18:14 * logger (logger@my.server.name) has joined Nov 14 23:54:48 * Morgan has quit (Quit: This computer has gone to sleep)