**** BEGIN LOGGING AT Sat Feb 17 00:00:12 2024 Feb 17 00:00:12 When the church find her parents, they’ll name her Feb 17 00:00:24 What? You cant give her up, not after this Feb 17 00:00:33 * Molly looks at him Feb 17 00:01:23 Master Hockridge, I have to work. I cannot work in service with a baby. I will need to find a new position as soon as I can. Feb 17 00:01:40 * Morgan scowls, looking at the baby Feb 17 00:03:13 I know you cannot give me a letter of recommendation, but if I can stay just a week, my milk will come in, and then she will go to a family who can afford to give her everything she needs, and I will find work as a wet nurse Feb 17 00:03:48 No... no thats not... its not -right- Feb 17 00:05:21 * Molly looks at him sympathetically “I know it isn’t, but that is not how live in service is. Right doesn’t matter, only survival. With a loving family, she will survive to be an adult. Maybe she’ll wed, have her own children, thanks to you” Feb 17 00:05:28 life* Feb 17 00:05:53 * Morgan sits down, scowling Feb 17 00:06:22 Are you sure you’ll not hold her? Feb 17 00:06:52 Yes... okay... Feb 17 00:07:36 * Molly hands her gently over. She’s fast asleep, wrapped snugly. She has dark red hair too Feb 17 00:08:27 * Morgan cradles her, looking at her Feb 17 00:09:30 *She’s got sweet little brows, and impossibly tiny eye lasts. She’s smaller than Jana was, lighter* Feb 17 00:09:39 lashes* Feb 17 00:09:53 Hello little lady Feb 17 00:11:10 * Molly smiles a little “I think, if she was to be mine, I’d call her...” *she looks thoughtful* “I don’t know, actually. what do you think would be a nice name?” Feb 17 00:11:23 * Morgan sighs Feb 17 00:11:28 I don't know Feb 17 00:12:08 Maybe Sophie, or Nell, like my grandmothers Feb 17 00:12:19 Sophie's nice... Feb 17 00:12:30 * Molly nods Feb 17 00:12:42 What were your grandmothers called? Feb 17 00:13:02 *They were called Ana and Constance* Feb 17 00:13:12 Ana and Constance Feb 17 00:13:29 Oh! Constance is lovely... Connie, for short... Feb 17 00:14:02 * Morgan nods Feb 17 00:14:07 Probably Feb 17 00:14:12 * Molly nods Feb 17 00:14:17 I like that Feb 17 00:14:36 Where do you sleep? Feb 17 00:14:53 In the loft above the dairy Feb 17 00:15:02 Thats not acceptable now Feb 17 00:15:09 * Molly sighs Feb 17 00:15:25 Please... just a week, then you’ll be free of us Feb 17 00:15:54 No, I'll... I'll find you a room in the house... maybe I could swing a cottage Feb 17 00:16:29 I wouldn’t want you to go to a lot of trouble, you’ve already done so much Feb 17 00:19:10 Right is right... and a newborn sleeping in a loft of a dairy is not right Feb 17 00:19:20 * Molly sighs Feb 17 00:19:56 I’m sure you’re thinking I was somehow completely innocent, like perhaps I was raped, but... Feb 17 00:20:15 Its not my business Feb 17 00:21:14 My parents... they threw me out. I don’t go to the village or town because it’s well-known. They... they call me a whore Feb 17 00:21:55 * Morgan scowls Feb 17 00:22:04 Not if I bloody hear it they won't Feb 17 00:23:23 * Molly looks at the baby in his arms Feb 17 00:23:33 You shouldn’t defend me, I don’t deserve it Feb 17 00:23:56 I'll defend who I please... right is right Feb 17 00:24:10 * Molly chews her lip Feb 17 00:24:50 I was intimate with someone, it was just the once, and I thought it was safe the first time... Feb 17 00:25:38 A common belief Feb 17 00:26:05 * Molly nods “A wrong one” Feb 17 00:26:35 Evidently Feb 17 00:28:07 * Molly nods. The baby feels nicely warm in his arms, and he can feel her breathe with his forearm beneath her, the breath he gave to her making it so she could breathe on her own Feb 17 00:28:43 * Morgan rocks her gently, instinctively Feb 17 00:29:03 I'd like to get you in the house but I'm not sure I should be moving you Feb 17 00:30:06 I think I could slowly walk but... well, I’m Umm... Feb 17 00:30:17 Sore? Feb 17 00:30:26 No, uhh... bleeding Feb 17 00:30:42 Lets not aggravate anything by moving then Feb 17 00:31:01 * Molly nods Feb 17 00:31:18 I feel like I could sleep for a week Feb 17 00:31:34 * Morgan nods, looking her over Feb 17 00:32:04 * Molly looks fine. Tired, as Dietlinde had been after her labour, but not pale or weak Feb 17 00:32:38 A nap might be in order until the midwife arrives Feb 17 00:32:48 would that be alright? Feb 17 00:32:57 Why would it not be? Feb 17 00:33:09 You’ll need to keep her a while Feb 17 00:33:24 I think we're alright here for now Feb 17 00:34:04 * Molly nods, fidgeting just a little, and rests her exhausted head to his arm “thank you” Feb 17 00:34:30 * Morgan nods, sitting still Feb 17 00:35:43 * Molly is rapidly asleep, leaving him the only one awake. He can still smell that scent of her he’d found pleasant, even mixed with blood and cows Feb 17 01:25:17 * Molly has quit (Read error: EOF from client) Feb 17 01:36:18 * Morgan has quit (Quit: This computer has gone to sleep) Feb 17 13:02:54 * Morgan (~mads@192.168.1.117) has joined Feb 17 13:03:12 * Molly (~u931732@192.168.1.127) has joined Feb 17 13:05:42 Lets not aggravate anything by moving then Feb 17 13:05:42 * Molly nods Feb 17 13:05:42 I feel like I could sleep for a week Feb 17 13:05:42 * Morgan nods, looking her over Feb 17 13:05:42 * Molly looks fine. Tired, as Dietlinde had been after her labour, but not pale or weak Feb 17 13:05:45 A nap might be in order until the midwife arrives Feb 17 13:05:47 would that be alright? Feb 17 13:05:49 Why would it not be? Feb 17 13:05:51 You’ll need to keep her a while Feb 17 13:05:53 I think we're alright here for now Feb 17 13:05:57 * Molly nods, fidgeting just a little, and rests her exhausted head to his arm “thank you” Feb 17 13:05:59 * Morgan nods, sitting still Feb 17 13:06:01 * Molly is rapidly asleep, leaving him the only one awake. He can still smell that scent of her he’d found pleasant, even mixed with blood and cows Feb 17 13:06:03 * Morgan sits still, holding the baby and frowning Feb 17 13:07:08 *she wriggles a little, he’s not sure how much later, and opens her eyes, blinking up at him Feb 17 13:07:28 * Morgan shushes her quietly Feb 17 13:07:49 *The baby yawns* Feb 17 13:08:07 * Morgan rocks her gently Feb 17 13:08:37 *she settles again, like Jana used to* Feb 17 13:11:33 * Morgan sighs quietly Feb 17 13:13:02 *it makes him feel a little sleepy, his mind wandering. What would Dietlinde expect of him in this situation? what would she have been proud of?* Feb 17 13:14:03 * Morgan yawns before murmuring Feb 17 13:14:25 Its alright... I'll keep you safe... somehow Feb 17 13:19:06 *There’s another twenty minutes before Richard lets the midwife in* Feb 17 13:19:36 * Morgan looks up, not moving Feb 17 13:21:04 *She comes in, with a lantern and a basket, right back to where they are. She looks at the three of them before nodding slightly* Feb 17 13:21:12 * Molly is now known as midwife Feb 17 13:21:31 Good evening, Master Hockidge Feb 17 13:21:41 * Morgan nods slightly, speaking quietly Feb 17 13:21:56 Thank you for coming. Feb 17 13:22:04 * midwife nods Feb 17 13:22:28 How long ago was the delivery? Feb 17 13:22:43 *It must have been about an hour ago now* Feb 17 13:22:48 About an hour now Feb 17 13:22:57 The cord was around her neck Feb 17 13:23:13 The babe is alive? Feb 17 13:23:21 * Morgan nods Feb 17 13:23:57 I breathed gently into her nose... she coughed up some... stuff, then started screaming... she's fed since and then slept Feb 17 13:24:00 * midwife looks surprised “Little thing got lucky” Feb 17 13:25:29 * midwife nods “She might survive then” Feb 17 13:25:56 Hopefully. Cord has been tied and cut and the other end came out. Feb 17 13:26:06 * midwife nods Feb 17 13:26:16 They can’t stay out here in a dirty barn Feb 17 13:26:30 No. I didn't want to risk moving them until you'd seen them Feb 17 13:28:51 * midwife nods “It’s better to move them to somewhere clean before I look them over” Feb 17 13:29:19 Okay. Take the child Feb 17 13:29:29 * midwife does so Feb 17 13:29:44 * Morgan gets up before lifting Molly Feb 17 13:30:15 *Molly stirs* Feb 17 13:31:06 Its alright, we're going inside Feb 17 13:31:30 *She nods, holding on tight* where’s the baby? Feb 17 13:31:58 The midwife has her Feb 17 13:32:28 Lead the way, Master Hockridge Feb 17 13:33:26 * Morgan nods, leading the way into the house, stopping momentarily to think about which room to take them to Feb 17 13:34:12 *Richard intercepts them* R: Need a room with a bed? Feb 17 13:34:20 yes Feb 17 13:34:57 *he goes racing up the stairs into the servants quarters to a little room at the far end Feb 17 13:35:45 * Morgan follows him Feb 17 13:36:43 * midwife follows too. Richard opens it, going straight to the fireplace and getting it lit Feb 17 13:37:30 Lay her on the bed for now, please. I’ll need warm water, rags, a clean shift, and some clean blankets Feb 17 13:38:13 * Morgan nods, laying her down, giving Richard instruction for half of the things, intending to get the rest himself Feb 17 13:39:26 * midwife keeps hold of the baby, Richard heads out at speed. Molly is quiet, watching the woman and the baby Feb 17 13:39:37 I'll be back in a moment Feb 17 13:40:00 You can leave them outside the door, Master Hockridge Feb 17 13:40:35 * Morgan frowns Feb 17 13:42:29 * midwife takes the baby and lays her down at Molly’s side, acting as if Morgan is no longer needed Feb 17 13:43:07 * Morgan scowls at her for a moment before walking out, going to fetch the things Feb 17 13:43:47 *It’s fairly easy to find the things, and he’s back before Richard. The door is closed Feb 17 13:44:02 * Morgan puts the things on the floor by the door before sitting by it Feb 17 13:44:39 * midwife opens the door a few minutes later, picking them up Feb 17 13:45:18 How are they? Feb 17 13:46:16 Well enough, for now. We’ll see what the next few days bring Feb 17 13:46:39 There is still a danger? Feb 17 13:49:10 Oh yes, childbed fever for the mother, cradle death for the child. Young women like this who work right through their pregnancies and don’t eat or sleep well or stay warm are more likely to die or their infants die. I’ll see Reverend Paulson in the morning about finding parents for the baby Feb 17 13:50:11 Hold off on that... lets make sure they're well fed and taken care of first Feb 17 13:52:34 * midwife ‘s mouth becomes a little disapproving line “Yes, Master Hockridge. You do not need to stand watch, I don’t believe the mother is a danger to the child” Feb 17 13:53:18 I'm not standing watch... I just... I delivered her. Feb 17 13:55:26 * midwife nods “You did well. I can take it from here” Feb 17 13:56:05 What can we do to minimise the risks? Feb 17 13:57:08 Feed the mother, have someone help her bathe tomorrow, keep them warm and quiet Feb 17 13:58:36 * Morgan ods Feb 17 13:58:38 I'll see to it Feb 17 13:59:45 * midwife nods “Good night, Master Hockridge” Feb 17 14:00:37 * Morgan nods, getting up Feb 17 14:02:26 * midwife goes in, shutting the door behind her Feb 17 14:03:15 * Morgan scowls, going to wash his hands Feb 17 14:04:24 *They are dirty, the water coming off red and brown, the evidence of his saving of a life sluicing away down the drain Feb 17 14:04:48 * Morgan watches the water Feb 17 14:07:29 *his nails are dirty, and in the mirror there’s a red spot on his nose, like he is somehow marked by the child, those fraught moments where he snatched her back from Death’s grasping hands, a shared experience that has touched him physically and emotionally Feb 17 14:08:01 * Morgan spends a few minutes getting his nails and face clean before looking back in the mirror Feb 17 14:08:05 Shit. Feb 17 14:08:49 *He looks tidy but tired. For a change, his brow isn’t tight with a scowl Feb 17 14:09:24 * Morgan checks the time Feb 17 14:09:34 *It’s half after three* Feb 17 14:11:11 * Morgan mutters at the mirror "Don't be thinking this redeems you" Feb 17 14:13:18 *unsurprisingly, his reflection doesn’t answer. He hears Richard coming up the stairs* Feb 17 14:13:51 * Morgan rolls his shoulders, opening the door into the hallway Feb 17 14:14:52 *Richard is lugging a bucket of hot water, and there’s towels over his arm, as well as a small glass bottle of string dark ale* Feb 17 14:18:09 I don't recall her wanting ale... Feb 17 14:18:50 Richard: My Mum swears by it, and she’s had eleven of us Feb 17 14:19:01 Not sure the midwife will allow it Feb 17 14:21:36 *Richard nods* Worth a try though, sir Feb 17 14:21:58 * Morgan nods Feb 17 14:22:04 Alright Feb 17 14:24:17 *Richard heads down the hall with it, leaving Morgan stood by himself* Feb 17 14:24:58 * Morgan grumbles, going down to the kitchen to make fresh coffee and start planning who will work the dairy Feb 17 14:26:52 *this fills some time, but there’s enough staff to do it. Soon the staff are awake, cleaning the kitchen, making bread Feb 17 14:27:47 * Morgan gives out instructions to get everything covered before going out to patrol the grounds Feb 17 14:29:39 *first light comes whilst he’s out there, Dawn imminent Feb 17 14:30:10 * Morgan finds himself somewhere quiet to wait for it Feb 17 14:30:19 What do I do, love? Feb 17 14:33:14 *A stirring breeze blows yellow, orange and red leaves into his view, and the church bells chime for six* Feb 17 14:33:48 * Morgan shakes his head sadly, watching the sky Feb 17 14:35:01 *the sun starts to rise across the valley, a new day for the new little life upstairs, and for the girl who has hidden her pregnancy for the six months she’s been there* Feb 17 14:38:14 * Morgan shakes himself before setting off to finish his rounds Feb 17 14:38:38 *he manages it. He sees the midwife leaving* Feb 17 14:41:21 * Morgan heads back to the house, checking everything is in order before heading up to the room Molly is in, listening intently Feb 17 14:41:44 *He can hear that song he knows from Catterick again* Feb 17 14:42:11 * Morgan knocks quietly Feb 17 14:43:57 * midwife is now known as Molly Feb 17 14:44:02 Come in Feb 17 14:44:21 * Morgan goes inside Feb 17 14:44:24 How are you doing? Feb 17 14:46:41 * Molly is sat propped up in bed. For all the midwife’s brusqueness, she’s seen to cleaning up Mother and child so that both are clean looking. Molly holds the shawl wrapped baby to her. She looks less tired now, and not pained. The room smells clean and fresh, and of Lily Of The Valley Feb 17 14:47:14 We are well, thank you. How are -you-, Master Hockridge? Did you sleep? Feb 17 14:47:38 I don't really sleep Feb 17 14:48:19 * Molly nods “I don’t sleep well” Feb 17 14:50:05 No... Feb 17 14:51:43 *The baby makes a cooking noise, and Molly smiles at her* Do you want to see her? Oh, you must be very busy, in truth. You are usually very busy Feb 17 14:52:04 No... I'd ike to see her Feb 17 14:52:37 * Molly shifts over with a little wince, so that he would have space to perch on the bed Feb 17 14:55:01 * Morgan sits on the edge of the bed Feb 17 14:58:49 * Molly shows him the child, who is sucking on her little fingers, hands all pink now as they should be, the scary blueness all gone. Her eyes are a greyish-blue, so big Feb 17 14:59:24 I’m trying so hard not to fall in love with her... Feb 17 14:59:29 * Morgan nods Feb 17 14:59:32 Almost impossible Feb 17 14:59:55 * Molly nods “But it will only hurt all the more when I must say goodbye” Feb 17 15:00:34 * Morgan nods Feb 17 15:00:36 I can see that Feb 17 15:01:52 would you like to hold her? Do you have time? Feb 17 15:02:00 * Morgan nods Feb 17 15:02:02 please Feb 17 15:03:13 * Molly hands the baby over. beneath the shawl, she seems to be without anything but a nappy cloth. There’s nothing here for a child Feb 17 15:03:42 * Morgan cradles her, looking at her Feb 17 15:03:45 She needs some clothes Feb 17 15:05:26 The midwife is going to ask in the village if anyone has anything to spare, and if there’s anyone here who might have time to darn or sew anything that is found, I’d be so grateful Feb 17 15:07:06 *The baby watches up at him, still sucking on her hand, nails so unfathomably small Feb 17 15:08:14 * Morgan nods Feb 17 15:08:22 That'll be good Feb 17 15:09:07 The midwife says she would have died... Feb 17 15:09:25 Because of the cord Feb 17 15:09:39 And because she wasn’t breathing Feb 17 15:09:48 * Morgan nods Feb 17 15:09:52 Thankfully that was not the case Feb 17 15:10:10 thankfully you were there. I wouldn’t have known to do what you did Feb 17 15:10:33 * Morgan shrugs Feb 17 15:10:39 just... something I remembered hearing once Feb 17 15:10:47 * Molly nods Feb 17 15:10:54 I’m very glad you came Feb 17 15:11:16 * Morgan nods, rocking the baby gently Feb 17 15:12:44 She said I’ll be up and around this afternoon, and ready to work again by the end of the week Feb 17 15:13:08 We'll see how it goes Feb 17 15:14:22 * Molly nods “Will you still look for her in the village when she grows up? Her hair will make her distinctive, unfortunately” Feb 17 15:14:53 * Morgan frowns Feb 17 15:14:58 Its.. complicated Feb 17 15:15:14 is it? Feb 17 15:15:28 yes Feb 17 15:15:54 * Molly watches him a long moment before looking to the baby “life is complicated” Feb 17 15:16:11 * Morgan nods, rocking her Feb 17 15:17:00 * Molly smiles Feb 17 15:17:10 I thought you weren’t good with children? Feb 17 15:17:34 no Feb 17 15:17:59 She loooks contented with you. Maybe she knows you saved her Feb 17 15:18:37 Maybe. But at this age they're just happy to be held and warm and quiet Feb 17 15:19:20 * Molly shrugs “I don’t know much about babies” Feb 17 15:20:01 You get used to it Feb 17 15:20:18 * Molly watches him a moment longer Feb 17 15:20:24 Do you have children? Feb 17 15:20:35 * Morgan shakes his head a little Feb 17 15:20:37 Not any more Feb 17 15:20:44 oh. I’m sorry Feb 17 15:21:03 * Morgan nods Feb 17 15:23:08 * Molly gently put her hand on his “I will pray for them to be at peace” Feb 17 15:23:47 * Morgan nods quietly Feb 17 15:26:01 * Molly removes her hand “Do you have a crate or a box that she can sleep in?” Feb 17 15:26:30 I'll find something Feb 17 15:27:15 *He recalls there might be a crib in the attic, but that would require asking Lady Torrington, who no doubt will be finding out this morning through servants gossiping * Feb 17 15:27:41 I'd best go get ahead of the gossip thats going to start Feb 17 15:28:05 * Molly nods a little “What I said about you last night...” Feb 17 15:28:41 Which bit? Feb 17 15:32:47 About you not being friendly, kind, and compassionate. That was cruel, and so incorrect Feb 17 15:33:02 No... no its accurate Feb 17 15:33:09 * Molly shakes her head Feb 17 15:34:23 You could have left me there like that and sent a servant or two. I’m not in denial of what I am; a sinful, unwed mother. You didn’t need to look after us so well, I don’t deserve it Feb 17 15:35:34 Anyone who left you in that position would've been cruel Feb 17 15:35:41 Exactly. Feb 17 15:36:25 I'm unkind, unfriendly... but I am not cruel Feb 17 15:38:18 * Molly shakes her head Feb 17 15:39:24 I’ll never believe that. When I am gone from here, and my daughter is safe and secure with a good family, I’ll always look back on you as a good, kind man who was so compassionate to me when I was hurting so much Feb 17 15:39:50 * Morgan sighs Feb 17 15:39:55 I appreciate that Feb 17 15:40:25 Do you sigh because I think well of you? Feb 17 15:40:41 Because I do not deserve it Feb 17 15:44:30 *The baby fidgets then farts loudly. Molly bites her lip* ummm, sorry! Feb 17 15:44:48 It happens... here, you'd best take her so I can get things in motion Feb 17 15:45:14 * Molly nods, taking her back “If you want to hold her again, you can, anytime” Feb 17 15:46:31 * Morgan nods Feb 17 15:46:36 I'll keep it in mind Feb 17 15:49:10 * Morgan stands, looking at them briefly before quietly leaving and going to speak to Lady Torrington Feb 17 15:51:01 *He’s told Lady Torrington is in her rooms having breakfast* Feb 17 15:51:19 * Morgan heads that way Feb 17 15:51:34 * Molly is now known as Catherine Feb 17 15:51:46 * Catherine calls enter when he knocks Feb 17 15:51:57 * Morgan does so, closing the door Feb 17 15:52:04 My Lady, might I have a word? Feb 17 15:54:49 * Catherine nods, getting the maid to pour him some coffee Feb 17 15:58:23 Is it private? Feb 17 15:58:26 Yes, it is Feb 17 15:58:44 * Catherine dismisses the maid with a brief nod Feb 17 16:00:55 Go ahead Feb 17 16:08:14 There is an issue Feb 17 16:10:15 * Catherine sips her coffee “what is it?” Feb 17 16:13:12 One of the maids... she gave birth in the dairy barn just before three this morning Feb 17 16:14:50 * Catherine shakes her head disapprovingly “Unacceptable” Feb 17 16:15:24 It is what it is. Its less than ideal Feb 17 16:16:23 * Catherine frowns “Who else is involved?” Feb 17 16:16:41 * Morgan shrugs Feb 17 16:16:47 Someone in town I understand Feb 17 16:17:11 He will not marry her and take responsibility? Feb 17 16:18:04 Forgive me, my lady, but when I was trying to save the life of her and her baby, I was not thinking about asking the circumstances Feb 17 16:18:42 * Catherine nods Feb 17 16:19:35 Speak with the staff and warn them that any gossiping in town will be punished, and anyone also fornincating will be turned out too. Feb 17 16:20:16 I will do the former as a matter of course. Feb 17 16:23:50 And the latter? Feb 17 16:24:18 I think it unwise Feb 17 16:25:00 Why? Feb 17 16:25:44 You have an opportunity here to show what sort of ruler you are... Feb 17 16:28:06 I am not one who takes in fallen women. Feb 17 16:28:25 * Morgan sighs Feb 17 16:28:37 You wish to be seen as cold and aloof... Feb 17 16:30:24 There are charitable enterprises to see women like that rehabilitated to be fit for society. Feb 17 16:30:49 So you do. Thats a pity. Feb 17 16:31:39 There are standards of behaviour. My reputation will be damaged by tolerating it Feb 17 16:33:21 There are standards of behaviour, yes... nobility are supposed to care for their charges, not turf them out the second they become less than perfect. Feb 17 16:33:48 Perhaps you do not understand my world. Feb 17 16:35:00 * Morgan shrugs Feb 17 16:35:18 Wrong is wrong. Best be hoping war never breaks out... Feb 17 16:36:13 Why? Feb 17 16:37:00 well... -I- wouldn't fight for a landowner that'd throw me out like trash and abandon me... I wouldn't put money on many doing that at all Feb 17 16:38:54 she has disgraced herself and her family if she’s gotten herself pregnant, Morgan. Those sort of women aren’t fit for society Feb 17 16:40:55 * Morgan shrugs, standing up Feb 17 16:41:46 Your views on this are clear and will be for you to explain to your god come judgement day. I shall not be party to cruelty in the name of protecting your reputation, and I will not lay down my life for someone cruel. Feb 17 16:42:03 * Catherine stands too, looking angry Feb 17 16:43:10 Why do you care so much?! The baby will go to be adopted, and the maid can go to the Magdelene Home in Carlson. I’ll even pay for her fare there, if it soothes you. Feb 17 16:44:09 Perhaps if this nonsense had cost you -your- child, you'd understand or give a damn. Feb 17 16:46:01 If you understood that the gossip and shame would harm my rule, maybe you’d care. Maybe your commitment to me is not strong enough... Feb 17 16:46:28 I will not save what is already corrupt. Feb 17 16:49:21 * Catherine nods “I will find a replacement then, but I caution you against throwing your hat in with a woman without sound moral fibre.” Feb 17 16:50:01 * Morgan lifts his chin Feb 17 16:50:08 indeed. Thats why I'm leaving. Feb 17 16:50:54 * Catherine frowns “You may leave now.” Feb 17 16:51:20 * Morgan watches for a moment before speaking through gritted teeth Feb 17 16:51:51 You and I, where I come from we stand as equals... your... -bullshit- killed my wife and my child. You were supposed to be better than that. Feb 17 16:52:08 * Catherine looks puzzled Feb 17 16:52:10 what?! Feb 17 16:52:14 You heard me Feb 17 16:52:42 You are a nobleman? Feb 17 16:53:47 * Morgan scowls Feb 17 16:54:27 Suffice to say, I understand your world Feb 17 16:55:22 Then you should know better. Feb 17 16:57:22 Funny... how nobility is something so lacking from so many of you claiming to be noble... you -disgust- me, the lot of you, the whole steaming pile of you Feb 17 16:57:46 Get. Out. Feb 17 16:58:55 * Morgan moves quickly, wrenching the door, flinging it wide before storming out Feb 17 16:59:33 *he walks right into the eavesdropping maid Feb 17 17:00:02 You! You've got precisely eight seconds to get out of my sight before I gather your things and throw them out Feb 17 17:00:55 *the maid runs away Feb 17 17:01:41 * Morgan goes up to his room, packing his things Feb 17 17:03:33 *There’s barely anything to pack, a few items of clothing, a sketchbook, some kohl, and the guitar he had acquired in the War that he’s almost left in Avebury, at Maelwys’ Red Lion tavern, a better kinder place than here* Feb 17 17:04:54 * Morgan flexes his hands, apoplectically angry Feb 17 17:07:40 *There’s no one else but him there to vent it upon* Feb 17 17:08:21 * Morgan punches the wall several times Feb 17 17:10:04 *It hurts, but when he wakes, the pain is gone* Feb 17 17:11:08 * Morgan takes several deep breaths Feb 17 17:11:17 * Catherine is still in bed, but they’ve somehow separated in the night, not touching Feb 17 17:11:21 * Catherine is now known as Molly Feb 17 17:11:34 * Morgan draws a ragged breath, checking the time Feb 17 17:11:42 *It’s only two* Feb 17 17:13:39 * Morgan sighs heavily, trying to calm himself down Feb 17 17:14:35 *this rouses Molly a little because she rolls to him in her sleep, warm against him, her belly safely containing his child close* Feb 17 17:14:55 * Morgan swallows hard, putting his hand gently on her tummy Feb 17 17:15:37 * Molly sighs happily despite not waking Feb 17 17:16:29 * Morgan lays for a few minutes before trying to go back to sleep Feb 17 17:19:21 *He manages it. But he is back to the same dream, with hurting hands, and his bag and guitar waiting by the door Feb 17 17:21:08 * Morgan stands still, at a loss of what to do Feb 17 17:23:38 *If he is to leave, he probably ought to tell the dairymaid so she isn’t left wondering why he hasn’t come back* Feb 17 17:24:32 * Morgan picks up his bag, sword belt and guitar before heading toward her room Feb 17 17:27:00 *She’s still singing, but something he doesn’t know this time* Feb 17 17:29:58 * Morgan knocks quietly Feb 17 17:30:03 come in Feb 17 17:30:11 * Morgan quietly enters the room Feb 17 17:30:41 * Molly is rocking the sleeping baby gently, and she smiles at him Feb 17 17:30:59 Do they always sleep so much? Feb 17 17:31:10 * Morgan nods Feb 17 17:31:11 yes Feb 17 17:31:30 * Molly looks at what he is carrying Feb 17 17:31:42 Can you play guitar? Feb 17 17:32:13 What? Oh... yes, a bit Feb 17 17:33:26 * Molly nods Feb 17 17:33:33 You did not come to play? Feb 17 17:33:46 No. I came to tell you I'm... leaving. Feb 17 17:34:03 * Molly looks alarmed, holding the baby protectively Feb 17 17:34:07 what?! why?! Feb 17 17:34:55 Because Lady Torrington is not the person I took her to be. I am not welcome any longer. Feb 17 17:35:20 * Molly looks confused, then frowns, speaking quietly Feb 17 17:35:30 because of me... Feb 17 17:35:42 Not exactly Feb 17 17:35:54 where will you go? Feb 17 17:36:04 I don't know. It doesn't matter. Feb 17 17:36:16 It matters to me Feb 17 17:36:48 Why? Feb 17 17:37:15 There is no one else in the world that even slightly cares about my daughter Feb 17 17:38:59 * Morgan sighs Feb 17 17:40:07 Fat lot of good its done either of you Feb 17 17:40:27 We could have died without you Feb 17 17:41:39 Even so Feb 17 17:43:00 * Molly looks sad “I hope wherever you go you find happiness” Feb 17 17:43:42 Thats not on the cards. Feb 17 17:43:56 * Molly nods sadly Feb 17 17:44:37 I want to argue, but... I feel the same myself. How could I be happy ever again once she is gone? Feb 17 17:46:00 So... don't give her up. I know a place that you'd probably like... Feb 17 17:47:08 I have to -work-. I cannot do that with a baby Feb 17 17:48:22 Very well. Do as you will. Feb 17 17:49:29 * Molly starts to cry “I don’t -want- to, but I have no choice. I cannot let her starve to death with me” Feb 17 17:52:42 * Morgan frowns Feb 17 17:54:48 I don't know how to help you Feb 17 17:55:09 * Molly shakes her head Feb 17 17:55:50 it’s hopeless. it’s my own fault, and there’s no way for me to redeem myself Feb 17 17:58:14 * Morgan sighs Feb 17 17:58:33 I'll see wha tI can do before I leave Feb 17 17:59:17 but where are you going? Feb 17 17:59:31 I haven't decided yet Feb 17 18:00:53 what will you do? Do you have any skills? Blacksmiths are always needed everywhere Feb 17 18:01:25 *this evokes the smell of the forge, Da’s forge* Feb 17 18:03:12 * Morgan shakes his head sighing sadly Feb 17 18:03:20 No... I can fight... and I'm strong. Feb 17 18:04:49 *He can hear Da’s voice in his head “You are, kid. Stronger than ya imagine.” Feb 17 18:05:29 * Morgan frowns Feb 17 18:06:22 * Molly nods “it sounds like you’ll be fine then, wherever you go” Feb 17 18:06:51 Thats... not... nevermind Feb 17 18:08:02 *again, he can picture that man, that smell, and hears his mentor in his head “Y’ brought a life into th’ world, mebbie that’s what Dietlinde would want ya to do with yours” Feb 17 18:10:07 Look... maybe... I might have an idea... Feb 17 18:11:12 * Molly nods, looking at the baby “for what work you’ll do?” Feb 17 18:11:27 Something like that. Stay put... I'll be back. Feb 17 18:11:35 * Molly nods Feb 17 18:11:53 alright Feb 17 18:12:17 * Morgan nods, looking at the child before moving outside, muttering to himself as he goes to find Lady Torrington Feb 17 18:13:48 *shes not left her rooms* Feb 17 18:14:19 * Morgan walks right in, sitting himself down Feb 17 18:15:11 * Molly is now known as Catherine Feb 17 18:15:20 * Catherine looks shocked by it Feb 17 18:15:29 what are you doing?! Feb 17 18:15:47 Sitting down... behaving entitled... Feb 17 18:17:02 * Catherine nods slightly Feb 17 18:17:07 what do you want? Feb 17 18:17:16 To reach an agreement Feb 17 18:17:48 go ahead. Feb 17 18:18:42 I want you to allow the maid to remain here, with her child, for two weeks on full pay. At which point, she will leave and you will not see her again. Further, I will be paid to the end of the month in full, along with the backpay I have not been collecting. Feb 17 18:19:49 * Catherine shrugs “You do the accounts, how much is it?” Feb 17 18:20:34 I'll visit and take care of it. Oh... and you'll be giving us both glowing references. Feb 17 18:20:45 Why would I do that?! Feb 17 18:21:45 Because I said so. You are going to turn her out, the least you can do is make it a little easier to avoid sleeping in a gutter Feb 17 18:22:11 On one condition. Feb 17 18:22:16 That being? Feb 17 18:22:42 You stay two weeks too and find me a master at arms. Feb 17 18:22:59 * Morgan smiles slightly Feb 17 18:23:24 You're a capable noble woman who knows her own... mind... you don't need me doing that for you Feb 17 18:24:41 I don’t want to waste my time on it Feb 17 18:25:13 No, far too busy thinking about frilly things... your wage bill will go up twofold... Feb 17 18:27:25 * Catherine nods “It might” Feb 17 18:27:59 Not might, -will-... in replacing me you're going to need a game keeper, master at arms and an estate manager. Feb 17 18:28:29 so be it Feb 17 18:28:42 * Morgan shrugs Feb 17 18:29:06 Remember that when it comes to scaling back your parties. Lastly, when someone comes to ask where I went... you tell them Innismore Feb 17 18:30:14 is that where you’re going? Feb 17 18:33:25 * Morgan shrugs Feb 17 18:33:29 I haven't decided yet Feb 17 18:33:48 * Catherine nods Feb 17 18:33:58 Alright then. Is she your child? Feb 17 18:35:17 Absolutely not Feb 17 18:38:47 *Again he hears Da’s voice “You sure, kid? Fam’ly ain’t jus’ blood, ya know...” Feb 17 18:42:47 * Catherine nods slightly Feb 17 18:45:35 Two weeks and they'll be out of your way Feb 17 18:45:56 * Catherine nods “yes, I agree” Feb 17 18:47:38 * Morgan nods Feb 17 18:47:53 Good. I'll see that its known today that you will need replacements Feb 17 18:48:07 * Catherine nods Feb 17 18:48:10 thank you Feb 17 18:49:01 * Morgan nods, getting up Feb 17 18:49:05 A pity its come to this Feb 17 18:49:49 * Catherine nods “I hope you find peace with your choice” Feb 17 18:50:41 I will never know peace. Its my punishment. Feb 17 18:51:00 you are a strange men. Feb 17 18:51:05 man* Feb 17 18:52:08 Not really. I'm principled, and I'm loyal and hard working... and grieving, and maybe, one day if I can redeem myself, I'll be reunited with my loved ones. Feb 17 18:53:09 * Catherine nods “you may go now” Feb 17 18:53:27 Thats the plan Feb 17 18:53:36 * Morgan leaves the room, leaving the door wide open again Feb 17 18:54:00 * Catherine doesn’t close it Feb 17 18:54:36 * Morgan makes towards Molly's room, stopping once he's alone, muttering quietly Feb 17 18:54:42 What am I supposed to do Da? Feb 17 18:55:41 *He hears the voice once more “Go home, kid. Go find Ma and Heinzharold, they’ll help ya” Feb 17 18:56:10 I can't go home... I can't take them there Feb 17 18:58:15 * he hears: Catterick then, and write to my boy, y’ know he’ll always come to yer aid. That Claudia too” Feb 17 18:59:13 My parents will find me there Feb 17 19:00:43 *Da says again: this lassie’s gon miss her kid if she hasta let her go, you think yer Ma ain’t missin’ you like that?* Feb 17 19:02:29 No... they left me alone before the fire Feb 17 19:04:21 D: like this one here, they’re so indoctrinated in their Honour stuff they lose sight o’ what matters, til it’s gone. now she cries herself to sleep wonderin where ya are, if you’re e’en alive still Feb 17 19:05:18 * Morgan slumps like he's been hit Feb 17 19:05:52 *there’s no one there to see him* Feb 17 19:06:44 I didn't know Feb 17 19:07:33 Da: turns it over in her head, what they’d coulda done, how they coulda saved Dietlinde and Jana, why she didn’ at least knit for her Feb 17 19:08:01 * Morgan sighs heavily Feb 17 19:08:22 okay Feb 17 19:09:42 Da: I’d give ‘em another chance. You can give up the title, y’ don’ need that any’ow Feb 17 19:10:01 Yeah, maybe Feb 17 19:11:11 Da: Go see th’ babe, put the lassie out of her misery Feb 17 19:11:32 Yeah... yeah okay Feb 17 19:11:38 * Morgan starts walking again Feb 17 19:11:53 D: Good lad. Yer a good kid. Feb 17 19:12:39 Not good enough Feb 17 19:13:21 Da: Time to do better then, ain’t it? Feb 17 19:13:43 * Morgan nods, looking hurt as he keeps walking Feb 17 19:14:03 Da: An’ get some sleep, yer talkin’ to a dead man Feb 17 19:14:15 * Morgan shakes his head Feb 17 19:14:19 Can't. Nightmares. Feb 17 19:15:33 *There’s night answer to this* Feb 17 19:15:53 * Morgan heads up to Molly's room Feb 17 19:16:14 *She calls for him to come in again* Feb 17 19:16:24 * Catherine is now known as Molly Feb 17 19:16:29 * Morgan goes in, putting his guitar and bag against the wall Feb 17 19:16:44 * Molly is nursing the baby Feb 17 19:16:56 I hoped you would come back Feb 17 19:17:06 Oh? Feb 17 19:17:52 * Molly just smiles gently Feb 17 19:18:16 I've got it in place that you can stay for a fortnight... Feb 17 19:20:07 * Molly looks so relieved Feb 17 19:20:11 Thank you! Feb 17 19:20:26 After that... I've got the beginnings of an idea Feb 17 19:20:47 * Molly smiles, shuffling over again so there’s space to sit Feb 17 19:21:08 * Morgan sits down Feb 17 19:21:23 what is it? Feb 17 19:23:07 I'm going to go home. I. think... you and the little one should come with me. I have... friends... who will help Feb 17 19:23:24 You aren’t fromTawstock? Feb 17 19:23:34 * Morgan shakes his head Feb 17 19:23:38 Not by a long way Feb 17 19:23:49 * Molly nods Feb 17 19:23:55 There’s work there? Feb 17 19:24:20 I don't know. We'll have to see... I'll work something out Feb 17 19:24:26 * Molly nods Feb 17 19:24:48 are you sure you want me to when I’m... *she sighs* a trollop? Feb 17 19:25:11 Thats the last time you call yourself anything like that. Feb 17 19:25:28 * Molly scrutinises his face Feb 17 19:25:32 why, and how? Feb 17 19:26:24 Because I said so. You cannot be kind to your daughter if you are cruel to yourself Feb 17 19:26:48 * Molly nods “I can keep her if I come with you?” Feb 17 19:27:14 Yes. I am not going to let her be taken from you Feb 17 19:27:23 * Molly starts to cry again Feb 17 19:27:28 Thank you Feb 17 19:28:19 It. Will be quite the journey... Feb 17 19:28:44 I’ve been quite a way before Feb 17 19:28:51 How far? Feb 17 19:29:18 across the country and up. A place called Durham Feb 17 19:29:28 I've got family in Catterick Feb 17 19:29:47 * Molly looks surprised “Oh! I have family in Durham” Feb 17 19:30:02 * Molly frowns “Had.” Feb 17 19:30:29 * Morgan nods Feb 17 19:30:36 They'll see their error eventually Feb 17 19:30:49 * Molly shrugs “I doubt it” Feb 17 19:31:33 So did I but... apparently I am incorrect Feb 17 19:31:47 I don’t under Feb 17 19:31:52 understand Feb 17 19:34:39 Its a long story. It isn't Catterick we're going to anyway Feb 17 19:36:04 * Molly nods “Where will we go?” Feb 17 19:37:15 Its a place called Sudlachenburg Feb 17 19:37:24 That sounds Eisen Feb 17 19:38:18 It is Feb 17 19:38:29 * Molly nods Feb 17 19:38:45 That’s far away Feb 17 19:39:07 * Morgan nods Feb 17 19:39:08 yes Feb 17 19:39:44 I don’t have much money Feb 17 19:40:33 * Morgan shrugs Feb 17 19:40:43 I've got a little coming Feb 17 19:41:34 * Molly nods “I have twenty two guilders” Feb 17 19:42:21 You'll have another two weeks pay... I need to go to the bank Feb 17 19:42:47 * Molly looks surprised Feb 17 19:42:56 You have a bank account?! Feb 17 19:43:31 * Morgan nods Feb 17 19:45:21 I thought only very rich people had those! Feb 17 19:45:48 * Morgan shrugs Feb 17 19:45:58 * Molly swaps the baby to the other breast very carefully. He feels his eyes automatically move to her bared nipple Feb 17 19:46:17 * Morgan forces himself to look away, frowning Feb 17 19:47:13 I don’t have anything to pack really Feb 17 19:47:24 * Morgan glances toward the bag Feb 17 19:47:31 I've already packed. DIdn't take long Feb 17 19:48:23 * Molly nods Feb 17 19:48:36 We’ll leave in two weeks, when I am healed? Feb 17 19:48:52 * Morgan nods Feb 17 19:48:54 Yes Feb 17 19:49:30 * Molly nods, smiling Feb 17 19:49:35 She needs a name Feb 17 19:49:40 She does Feb 17 19:50:08 What about Hope? Feb 17 19:50:20 * Morgan nods Feb 17 19:50:22 Thats nice Feb 17 19:51:42 * Molly nods “Hope Isabella... Oh. I don’t know what her surname should be” Feb 17 19:51:57 Is the father to have nothing to do with her? Feb 17 19:52:32 * Molly shakes her head emphatically “No. And I don’t even know his last name anyway.” Feb 17 19:53:39 What's your last name? Feb 17 19:54:09 I have been completely disowned, and they said I shouldn’t use it Feb 17 19:54:58 * Morgan nods Feb 17 19:55:00 I see Feb 17 19:56:31 * Molly watches the baby, stroking her face “I’ll think of something” Feb 17 19:56:57 For the time being... she can be a Hockridge... Feb 17 19:59:56 * Molly nods Feb 17 20:00:06 Hope Hockridge. That’s nice Feb 17 20:00:31 * Morgan nods Feb 17 20:00:33 I think so Feb 17 20:01:18 * Molly sits the baby up to burp her, and once more he finds his gaze straying to her breast Feb 17 20:01:33 * Morgan frowns again, looking away Feb 17 20:02:06 * Molly glances at him before covering up “Oh! sorry!” Feb 17 20:03:13 * Morgan nods little Feb 17 20:03:16 Its alright Feb 17 20:04:56 *The clock in the hall chimes, and he wakes up* Feb 17 20:05:33 * Morgan scowls, muttering to himself Feb 17 20:06:32 * Molly doesn’t wake, but is wrapped around him from behind Feb 17 20:07:07 * Morgan gently disentangles himself, getting up Feb 17 20:08:04 * Molly isn’t disturbed by that either Feb 17 20:09:25 * Morgan goes to use the bathroom before getting dressed Feb 17 20:10:04 me stirs as he’s about to go “hmm?” Feb 17 20:10:38 Its time I got up love Feb 17 20:11:05 mmhmm Feb 17 20:12:19 I'll see you in a little while Feb 17 20:13:45 yes, my love *She rolls to his side, face in his pillow* Feb 17 20:14:18 * Morgan smiles faintly, fetching his sword belt and heading down to make coffee Feb 17 20:16:09 *the staff all happily say good morning Feb 17 20:16:33 * Morgan greets them, a little quieter than normal Feb 17 20:17:02 *Frau Arendt seems to immediately pick this up, coming over* Feb 17 20:17:08 * Molly is now known as Arendt Feb 17 20:17:20 Is everything alright for you, my Lord? Feb 17 20:17:32 Yes, sorry... nightmares... Feb 17 20:19:29 * Arendt nods Feb 17 20:20:18 DeeDee gets those badly. I have some of his tobacco he left behind once if you want some, my Lord? Feb 17 20:22:18 I'll be alright once I've had some exercise Feb 17 20:43:14 * Arendt inclines her head, going back to her tasks Feb 17 20:43:37 * Morgan takes his coffee, heading outside Feb 17 20:44:08 *He hears someone else already out here* Feb 17 20:44:24 * Morgan listens Feb 17 20:46:07 *The footsteps are light, only Claudia or Yensid are that quiet* Feb 17 20:46:17 Claudia? Feb 17 20:46:37 * Arendt is now known as Claudia Feb 17 20:46:39 yes? Feb 17 20:47:00 What are you doing out here? Feb 17 20:47:16 It’s morn8ng? Feb 17 20:49:05 yeah... of course Feb 17 20:49:17 * Claudia watches him Feb 17 20:49:27 Have you banged your head or something? Feb 17 20:49:55 Nightmare... trying to decide if its a warning or not Feb 17 20:50:13 right, let’s walk then Feb 17 20:53:36 * Claudia starts walking anti-clockwise round the house Feb 17 20:53:50 * Morgan walks with her Feb 17 20:53:53 How was town? Feb 17 20:54:20 * Claudia nods “Good. what was the nightmare” Feb 17 20:55:25 Back at the Torrington estate... hadn't been there long... Molly had gotten knocked up in an indiscretion, I assume with John Daggett... I found her giving birth in a barn... baby came out with the cord around its neck Feb 17 20:56:14 Riiiight? Feb 17 20:56:56 Had to save it... thats the bit I'm wondering about. Rest of it... argued with Catherine, put myself in a position where I had to leave... Feb 17 20:57:17 Rest of it sounds like you being you Feb 17 20:57:54 Yeah... and then I heard HeinzHarolds Da telling me to go home... said something about family isn't just about blood... Feb 17 20:58:09 * Claudia nods Feb 17 20:58:11 Not wrong Feb 17 20:59:27 No... been a while since I dreamed anything with that much anger and pain Feb 17 21:00:47 * Claudia nods “You’re thinking your baby may be born with the cord around it’s neck?” Feb 17 21:01:43 Or Sascha's... or Stef's... Or Inga's... Feb 17 21:03:22 Okay so just got to learn what to do just in case? Feb 17 21:03:37 Makes sense. Feb 17 21:05:35 was it a close call? Feb 17 21:06:01 * Morgan nods Feb 17 21:06:39 Kid was blue, not breathing... had to take the cord from around her neck, then had to breathe for her a little before she would do it herself Feb 17 21:07:21 Fuck. Scary as hell? Feb 17 21:07:27 Yeah Feb 17 21:08:44 * Claudia nods Feb 17 21:09:05 Saved her though, right? Feb 17 21:09:22 * Morgan nods Feb 17 21:09:30 Yeah, somehow Feb 17 21:09:54 * Claudia nods Feb 17 21:11:20 Path then? Feb 17 21:11:35 Yeah, could be. I think it more likely than a warning Feb 17 21:12:04 End happily ever after? Feb 17 21:13:17 Not so far Feb 17 21:13:42 * Claudia nods Feb 17 21:14:14 I suppose you’ll have to see how it goes Feb 17 21:14:19 * Morgan nods Feb 17 21:14:24 I hate feeling like that. Feb 17 21:14:29 scared? Feb 17 21:15:20 No... I wasn't scared really... there's not much makes me scared anymore... but angry, so very angry... and...-lost- Feb 17 21:16:03 * Claudia nods Feb 17 21:16:07 What helps? Feb 17 21:16:14 * Morgan shrugs Feb 17 21:16:31 Not sure... I was hoping some exercise would make me feel better... being on the move, y'know? Feb 17 21:16:50 * Claudia nods “yeah” Feb 17 21:18:28 *the morning is cool and dry, first light already. They walk a little while* Feb 17 21:18:46 Do you want to hear something cute? Feb 17 21:19:12 * Morgan nods Feb 17 21:19:19 Yes. I do. Feb 17 21:20:03 We were walking past a bakery yesterday, and Uinise grabbed my arm and said “Clowdia! They have the salty heart bread!” *she smiles* Feb 17 21:20:39 Heart bread? *he closes his eyes briefly* pretzel? Feb 17 21:21:15 * Claudia nods Feb 17 21:21:17 Yep Feb 17 21:22:11 * Morgan smiles Feb 17 21:22:25 Salty heart bread... thats sweet Feb 17 21:22:29 * Claudia smiles faintly, almost secretively Feb 17 21:22:35 yeah... yeah it was Feb 17 21:22:48 * Morgan glances at her Feb 17 21:22:57 Got it bad... Feb 17 21:23:14 shut up. *she’s blushing though* Feb 17 21:23:23 mmhmm Feb 17 21:24:22 when we got back, she took one out upside down, then showed me. She says “Clowdia, it’s not a heart now! Now it’s something else!” Feb 17 21:24:43 * Morgan laughs Feb 17 21:24:47 Oh dear Feb 17 21:24:56 * Claudia nods, smiling Feb 17 21:26:15 She throws it on the bed, comes right up in front of me, reaches around behind me, and grabs my ass with both hands, and says “Now it is this” Feb 17 21:26:35 * Claudia smiles more, still blushing Feb 17 21:26:59 * Morgan looks a little shocked Feb 17 21:28:19 * Claudia nods Feb 17 21:28:26 A man would die for that. Feb 17 21:28:31 * Morgan nods Feb 17 21:28:33 Undoubtedly Feb 17 21:28:57 So yeah... yesterday was good Feb 17 21:29:06 * Morgan nods Feb 17 21:29:08 good Feb 17 21:29:29 how was your day yesterday? Mothers arrive okay? Feb 17 21:29:53 * Morgan nods, sighing Feb 17 21:30:11 Martha's being difficult as predicted... mother and Alice met, which actually went quite well Feb 17 21:30:45 what does she have such a stick up her ass about? Feb 17 21:31:52 Alice is immoral, a temptress, ungodly... all that sort of bullshit Feb 17 21:32:26 * Claudia rolls her eyes Feb 17 21:35:44 If she gets too annoying I’ll let Uinise be Capperlucian with me and she’ll divert her ire Feb 17 21:35:59 No you won't Feb 17 21:36:06 * Claudia smiles Feb 17 21:36:28 No, but it’d shock her quiet for ten minutes Feb 17 21:36:33 * Morgan nods Feb 17 21:36:48 If she gets too uppity I'll needle her about her sister Feb 17 21:37:42 The fuck was the deal with that? Feb 17 21:38:07 I don't know... yet. Feb 17 21:38:23 * Claudia nods Feb 17 21:38:51 Heinzharold alright? Feb 17 21:39:48 He was last night, yeah Feb 17 21:41:43 * Claudia nods “No more building for him, he’s going to be a pain in the ass” Feb 17 21:41:53 He's already started griping about it Feb 17 21:42:56 * Claudia nods Feb 17 21:43:10 He needs stuff to do Feb 17 21:45:00 * Morgan nods Feb 17 21:45:07 He's going t be keeping Mina company this morning Feb 17 21:45:28 * Claudia nods Feb 17 21:45:38 What’s going on? Feb 17 21:45:58 Mother is going with Molly and Edward and Alice to meet Florrie Feb 17 21:46:20 * Claudia nods Feb 17 21:46:26 You’re staying well clear? Feb 17 21:46:47 Yeah, I cant be involved in that Feb 17 21:47:33 wanna tell me why? Feb 17 21:48:24 The way she looks... I never got to introduce Jana to mother... I don't think I can deal with seeing it today... and I don't want to cause mother any further pain with my presence Feb 17 21:50:35 * Claudia nods Feb 17 21:50:43 Alright, what can I do? Feb 17 21:50:55 * Morgan shrugs Feb 17 21:51:11 Make the best of the downtime and spend it with Uinise Feb 17 21:51:34 What will you do? Feb 17 21:52:37 I don't know yet. I might ask Martha to help Maggie with the boys Feb 17 21:53:59 * Claudia nods Feb 17 21:54:08 I’m here if you need me Feb 17 21:55:08 * Morgan nods Feb 17 21:55:13 I appreciate that Feb 17 21:57:17 * Claudia nods Feb 17 21:57:30 Going to be a tough day then Feb 17 21:57:35 * Morgan nods Feb 17 21:57:37 I expect so, yes Feb 17 21:58:26 get it done before Edward’s friends arrive. Feb 17 21:58:46 Looks like everyone will arrive at once Feb 17 22:00:13 * Claudia nods Feb 17 22:00:33 If any of them even look at Uinise there will be trouble Feb 17 22:01:29 I know. I think Potts is going to be the main issue Feb 17 22:04:04 As usual. Feb 17 22:04:20 * Morgan nods Feb 17 22:04:50 Then there’s DeeDee... Feb 17 22:07:17 * Morgan nods Feb 17 22:07:22 I'm a little... anxious about that Feb 17 22:07:41 * Claudia nods Feb 17 22:07:43 yeah. Feb 17 22:08:11 I don't imagine that he could come between you and Uinise, even if he wanted to though... and last I heard he was involved still Feb 17 22:08:19 * Claudia nods Feb 17 22:08:28 Yeah... Feb 17 22:08:33 but... Feb 17 22:08:52 But it’s never been predictable or logical with him Feb 17 22:09:23 No... I suppose not Feb 17 22:09:55 He’s coming Sunday night supposedly, and should be gone Thursday Feb 17 22:10:07 * Morgan nods Feb 17 22:10:15 Do you want to stay in town away from him? Feb 17 22:12:33 Nope, I want Uinise safe Feb 17 22:12:54 I didn't mean alone. Feb 17 22:13:06 She’s safer here Feb 17 22:13:14 * Morgan nods Feb 17 22:13:15 Alright Feb 17 22:13:30 Just have to see. Maybe it’s done now Feb 17 22:13:48 I'm not sure it matters Feb 17 22:16:04 * Claudia nods Feb 17 22:16:31 I’m enjoying time with her. There’s nothing DeeDee’s got that she hasn’t Feb 17 22:17:24 well... thats not...-quite- accurate Feb 17 22:17:49 * Claudia sniggers Feb 17 22:17:55 Alright, one thing. Feb 17 22:18:15 * Morgan nods Feb 17 22:18:59 Not that that’s so great anyway Feb 17 22:19:59 * Morgan shrugs Feb 17 22:21:53 How are Edward and Mina now? Feb 17 22:22:06 Seem alright, they're al over eachother again Feb 17 22:22:47 gross, because it’s him Feb 17 22:23:28 Its more or less two girls, really Feb 17 22:25:10 * Claudia smiles “Just with one -small- extra thing?” Feb 17 22:26:25 probably Feb 17 22:27:07 * Claudia nods “Glad I don’t have to see it” Feb 17 22:28:26 * Morgan nods Feb 17 22:28:37 I need to train... you up for it? Feb 17 22:28:43 Always Feb 17 22:29:51 * Morgan nods Feb 17 22:29:53 Come on then Feb 17 22:31:46 * Claudia does so, gauging how hard he needs to be pushed Feb 17 22:31:55 * Morgan pushes hard Feb 17 22:32:33 * Claudia pushes him even harder Feb 17 22:33:16 * Morgan pushes to keep up Feb 17 22:33:54 * Claudia grins, going all out Feb 17 22:34:38 * Morgan digs deep, matching her Feb 17 22:35:28 * Claudia goes at this as long as they can, which at this intensity isn’t too long Feb 17 22:36:06 * Morgan slows a little before backing up Feb 17 22:37:12 * Claudia breathes hard, shaking her arms out Feb 17 22:37:15 better? Feb 17 22:37:28 * Morgan nods, stretching his shoulters Feb 17 22:37:30 yeah Feb 17 22:38:25 * Claudia nods Feb 17 22:38:41 Good *she looks at the sky* Almost dawn Feb 17 22:40:11 * Morgan nods Feb 17 22:40:16 We're -really- dangerous Feb 17 22:40:41 * Claudia grins Feb 17 22:40:44 Yep Feb 17 22:41:55 * Claudia looks to the dawn Feb 17 22:42:10 Reckon those monk things are gone forever now? Feb 17 22:42:17 * Morgan shrugs Feb 17 22:42:22 I don't know. Probably not. Feb 17 22:45:04 next time we just destroy them on sight? Feb 17 22:45:31 If we figure it out, yeah... its the eyes... Feb 17 22:45:43 what about them? Feb 17 22:46:02 Your reflection is upside down Feb 17 22:46:18 ah yeah, I remember now Feb 17 22:46:33 * Morgan nods Feb 17 22:48:52 It’d be nice if Hafenlohr could be a monster-free zone Feb 17 22:49:30 Yeah... it really would Feb 17 22:51:32 You need a machine like on Morgan’s Rock but that wards off everything Feb 17 22:53:33 * Morgan nods Feb 17 22:53:34 That'd be nice Feb 17 22:54:53 * Claudia nods, watching the sun come up Feb 17 22:55:32 Right then. I’ll be around if you need me Feb 17 22:55:57 * Morgan nods Feb 17 22:55:59 See you later Feb 17 22:57:21 * Claudia nods, going in a side door Feb 17 22:57:54 * Morgan looks around at the grounds, walking toward the main entrance Feb 17 22:58:45 *Heinzharold’s house looks to be coming along quickly when he passes it. Mondel is on duty in the entrance hall where the painting of Molly is* Feb 17 22:59:28 Morning Mondel Feb 17 23:00:22 * Claudia is now known as Mondel Feb 17 23:00:34 * Mondel smiles “Good morning, my Lord” Feb 17 23:00:48 How is it? Feb 17 23:03:01 * Mondel nods Feb 17 23:03:48 A bit busier with the arrival of Lady Koertig and Frau Forrester, and preparations are underway for tomorrow’s arrivals, but all is good Feb 17 23:04:58 * Morgan nods Feb 17 23:05:05 Good. I'm not in the least surprised Feb 17 23:06:53 * Mondel nods Feb 17 23:07:19 We’ve never had so big a party, and everyone’s keen that it goes well Feb 17 23:08:11 * Morgan nods Feb 17 23:08:18 I have faith in you all Feb 17 23:09:53 * Mondel inclines his head “thank you, my Lord” Feb 17 23:10:43 Is Frau Arendt in the kitchen? Feb 17 23:10:53 Yes, my Lord Feb 17 23:11:07 Good, I need to speak to her a moment Feb 17 23:13:48 * Mondel nods. She is indeed down there Feb 17 23:13:53 * Mondel is now known as Arendt Feb 17 23:14:30 Frau Arendt... a moment if you can... Feb 17 23:14:42 * Arendt comes to him “My Lord?” Feb 17 23:16:09 * Morgan speaks quietly Feb 17 23:16:34 I wanted to thank you for your concern this morning... today is likely to be difficult for many of us. Feb 17 23:18:01 * Arendt nods Feb 17 23:18:18 There’s a definite tension about the place at the moment Feb 17 23:18:52 * Morgan nods Feb 17 23:19:04 You know about Florrie... Feb 17 23:20:27 * Arendt nods Feb 17 23:20:31 Yes, my Lord Feb 17 23:22:39 Obviously that has caused tension between my brother and his wife... there is obviously my parents to deal with... my mother is to meet Florrie today... something she never got to do with my daughter who looked -exactly- like Florrie Feb 17 23:23:05 * Arendt nods seriously Feb 17 23:24:09 I imagine we will all be quite subdued later Feb 17 23:24:17 Anything I or the staff can do, please let us know Feb 17 23:24:31 * Morgan nods Feb 17 23:24:49 Do you think it would be too big an inconvenience if I were to come and do some baking? Feb 17 23:25:26 * Arendt shakes her head “not at all. As soon as breakfast is over no one cooks for a while” Feb 17 23:25:45 * Morgan nods Feb 17 23:25:58 I don't know that I actually will but... the option would be useful Feb 17 23:26:50 * Arendt nods Feb 17 23:26:57 Just come down, my Lord Feb 17 23:27:05 * Morgan nods Feb 17 23:27:06 Thank you Feb 17 23:28:12 * Arendt nods Feb 17 23:28:18 was that all, my Lord? Feb 17 23:28:27 Yes... yes I think so Feb 17 23:29:09 * Arendt nods, inclining her head before going straight back to checking the staff are cooking the breakfast Feb 17 23:29:56 * Morgan pours himself some coffee, taking it and going up to his room to get washed and changed Feb 17 23:30:30 * Arendt is now known as Molly Feb 17 23:30:52 * Molly is in the dressing room when he gets there Feb 17 23:31:26 Morning Feb 17 23:31:55 * Molly is in a shift, trying to do up the buttons on a skirt Feb 17 23:32:03 good morning, my love Feb 17 23:32:33 How did you sleep? Feb 17 23:33:16 * Molly nods “Soundly, what about- oh for goodness sake!- you?” Feb 17 23:33:32 * Morgan frowns Feb 17 23:33:36 Is something the matter? Feb 17 23:33:42 * Molly sighs Feb 17 23:33:49 I can’t do this skirt up Feb 17 23:34:03 * Morgan nods Feb 17 23:34:08 You know why Feb 17 23:34:13 * Molly nods Feb 17 23:34:21 I do Feb 17 23:34:49 * Molly takes it off, hanging it up “how was your night?” Feb 17 23:34:54 rough Feb 17 23:35:02 * Molly nods sadly Feb 17 23:35:10 Would you like me to hold you? Feb 17 23:35:16 That'd be nice Feb 17 23:36:04 * Molly comes to embrace him, arms around his neck. She smells good, like she usually does now, though not of anything but her skin Feb 17 23:36:19 * Morgan inhales deeply, leaning against her Feb 17 23:36:49 * Molly tilts her head so he can get his nose right into the crook of her neck Feb 17 23:37:30 * Morgan does it again Feb 17 23:38:54 * Molly whispers in his ear “I long for the quiet days where do that will make you very weak in the knees and very rigid elsewhere” Feb 17 23:39:03 doing* Feb 17 23:39:24 * Morgan nods Feb 17 23:39:26 I know love Feb 17 23:39:42 At least it is a comfort? Feb 17 23:40:01 Yes it is Feb 17 23:40:09 That will suffice Feb 17 23:40:37 * Morgan nods Feb 17 23:40:39 Yes, it will Feb 17 23:41:50 * Molly nods Feb 17 23:42:19 Do you wish to tell me about your night? It feels like I’ll need to nurse soon Feb 17 23:43:09 Another path I think Feb 17 23:43:18 * Molly nods Feb 17 23:43:36 Was I with Seb? is that what is bothering you? Feb 17 23:44:24 No, no... back in Tawstock... before all of this, you'd been indiscreet and gotten pregnant. I found you in the barn in labour. The child nearly died... Feb 17 23:44:41 Oh my love, how awful Feb 17 23:44:59 The cord was around her neck... then she would not breathe... Feb 17 23:45:20 * Molly shudders Feb 17 23:45:34 That is always dangerous Feb 17 23:46:36 * Morgan nods Feb 17 23:47:03 Once you were both safe and in the house, I went to Catherine to try to get her help... she was... cold. I've not felt that angry in a long while Feb 17 23:47:12 * Molly nods Feb 17 23:47:16 And it lingers... Feb 17 23:49:16 A bit, yes. I've trained so I'm a little more settled, but the weight of today... Feb 17 23:49:41 Magic? Tobacco? Feb 17 23:51:00 No... I'll be alright Feb 17 23:51:06 * Molly nods Feb 17 23:51:19 We will do it after breakfast Feb 17 23:52:50 * Morgan nods Feb 17 23:52:52 Alright Feb 17 23:54:38 I think we’ll try to keep it to an hour, give everyone time to process separately, then take lunch outside where the children are more free to roam and the adults can spread out... Feb 17 23:54:55 * Morgan nods Feb 17 23:54:56 That makes sense Feb 17 23:55:11 If you do not wish to be there, I’ll understand Feb 17 23:56:25 I can't hide from it forever Feb 17 23:56:41 * Molly nods Feb 17 23:56:51 Would you do something for me? Feb 17 23:57:08 What? Feb 17 23:57:12 do you recall you put that rope on my arm in Ussura? Feb 17 23:57:17 * Morgan nods Feb 17 23:57:18 I do Feb 17 23:57:27 would you do that again? Feb 17 23:57:43 If you wish... why? Feb 17 23:58:02 I need that. It’s hard to explain Feb 17 23:59:09 * Morgan nods Feb 17 23:59:12 Alright love