[21:57] (Molly) *the fire reignites [21:59] * Morgan heats some water and refills his cup [21:59] ** Molly is now known as molly [22:00] (molly) She stirs [22:03] (molly) Are you well? [22:03] (Morgan) I think we can safely discard the notion of it being nothing more than a dream [22:04] (molly) *she looks confused* how so? [22:04] * Morgan raises the wrist with the ribbon [22:04] (Morgan) I found this in the corridor [22:06] (molly) *she sits up* in the corridor you hadn't been in? [22:06] * Morgan nods [22:06] (Morgan) besides... I'm a sailor, I know how to knot something [22:06] (molly) *she watches him* are you relieved? [22:07] * Morgan shrugs [22:10] (molly) How on theah could it be there? [22:11] (Morgan) it couldn't [22:11] (molly) But it was [22:12] * Morgan nods [22:13] (molly) A book moving, ribbon stealing ghost? [22:13] (Morgan) it would seem that way, wouldn't it [22:14] (molly) *she stretches* it would. But why? Why here, and why you? [22:15] (Morgan) Perhaps I'm the first to come thats susceptible... certainly the books being moved would be overlooked if you aren't of a certain... disposition [22:16] (molly) *she nods* that would make sense [22:18] * Morgan nods, glancing at the window [22:18] (molly) *she stands, pulling the gown tight around her* it's almost dawn [22:19] (Morgan) its almost time for me to go watch the sunrise [22:21] (molly) You're going to watch the sunrise? [22:21] * Morgan nods [22:21] (Morgan) its been a while since I have [22:23] (molly) *she nods solemnly* of course. Then you are going with Bauer to the village? [22:24] * Morgan smiles slightly [22:24] (Morgan) despite his desire for me to not [22:25] (molly) I hope you are able to resolve that mystery [22:26] (Morgan) No real mystery... I want to see how Bauer handles it [22:27] (molly) Why? [22:27] (Morgan) because if he cant handle something simple like that, how can I trust him to handle the entire place well until Varicks of age? [22:28] (molly) *she nods* I see [22:30] (molly) What would you wish me to do in your absence? [22:30] (Morgan) thats entirely up to you blossom [22:31] (molly) *she smiles, blushing a little* perhaps I should interview the staff? [22:32] * Morgan nods [22:32] (Morgan) thats a good idea [22:33] (molly) I doubt there'll be much, I think the nanny in seeufer will be our best hope, but it needs to be done [22:34] * Morgan nods [22:34] (Morgan) lets see if they're willing to talk before I get to them [22:35] (molly) You think they might not? [22:35] * Morgan shrugs [22:35] (Morgan) who knows [22:36] (molly) I'll do my best to convince them how wonderful you really are [22:37] * Morgan chuckles [22:39] (molly) *she watches him closely, as if about to say something , but then looks away* do you know how long you'll be gone? [22:39] * Morgan frowns slightly [22:39] (Morgan) no, not yet [22:40] (molly) *she nods* of course [22:41] (Morgan) is something troubling you? [22:41] (molly) *she looks unsure* I'm just a little shaken by tonight I think [22:42] * Morgan raises an eyebrow [22:44] (molly) *she looks away* you're going to be late [22:44] * Morgan stays still [22:46] (molly) *she just stands there, at a loss for what to say* [22:46] (Morgan) you've something you wish to say... [22:48] (molly) *she shakes her head* I shall be fine, I just need some breakfast and normalcy *she smiles as if to demonstrate* [22:48] * Morgan frowns again [22:51] (molly) Honestly, liebes herz, I'll be fine [22:51] (Morgan) as you wish [22:52] (molly) *she nods* you'll be careful, won't you? [22:52] (Morgan) of course [22:54] (molly) *she reaches out and touches his arm softly * good [22:55] (Morgan) I'll see you soon blossom [22:56] (molly) *she smiles blushing once more* til then, liebes herz [22:56] * Morgan heads out of the door [23:09] ** Morgan has quit (Quit: Leaving) [23:09] ** You are now disconnected ------------------------------ Logging started for Blitzed:#7thseaic on Wednesday, January 23, 2013 10:30:20 PM Greenwich Mean Time ------------------------------ [22:30] ** You have joined #7thseaic [22:30] (Bauer) Test [22:30] (@Morgan) received [22:31] * Bauer is in the entrance hall shrugging on his coat [22:34] * @Morgan wanders into the hall, adjusting a hunting hat [22:35] * Bauer nods to him [22:35] (Bauer) Good morning, my Lord [22:37] * @Morgan nods [22:37] (@Morgan) Bauer [22:37] (Bauer) You still want to come? It's raining. [22:38] (@Morgan) I spent a long time in Avalon as a master at arms... spent a large proportion of my time stood outside... a bit of rain doesn't worry me [22:43] * Bauer shrugs [22:44] (Bauer) Let's go then. [22:45] (Bauer) *they head down into the village. It's smaller than sudlachenburg but not by much. There are a couple of inns and a chapel as well as the usual shops [22:49] * @Morgan looks around, staying a pace or two behind Bauer [22:53] (Bauer) *it looks like a nice village. Bauer heads towards the inn. [22:54] * @Morgan follows, pulling the brim of his hat lower [23:01] (Bauer) *after a few minutes Morgan notices movement in the trees [23:02] * @Morgan slows slightly, looking surrepticiously at the treeline [23:03] (Bauer) *there is a man-shape following their journey [23:04] * @Morgan mutters quietly [23:04] (@Morgan) we're being watched [23:08] * Bauer doesn't look round or slow [23:08] (Bauer) Where? [23:08] (@Morgan) the trees [23:11] (Bauer) What would you suggest? [23:11] (@Morgan) carry on into the inn... we'll come up with something while out of sight [23:15] * Bauer does so. He enters the inn, nodding briefly to the barkeep before sitting at a table [23:15] * @Morgan sits down, not removing his hat [23:22] (Bauer) Now what? [23:23] (@Morgan) what would you suggest? [23:25] (Bauer) Sneak up on them? [23:27] (@Morgan) are you asking me or telling me? [23:28] (Bauer) Asking. You have a better idea of their stealth and size, I didn't see them [23:29] * @Morgan nods [23:29] (@Morgan) stealth... not much. I spotted the movement completely by accident. Size... man size, but not particularly big [23:30] (Bauer) So should we sneak up? [23:30] (@Morgan) we? no. Something needs to hold their attention while they're being sneaked up on [23:39] (Bauer) What do you want me to do? [23:39] (@Morgan) take someone outside and speak to them... and ask the barkeep to let me use the service door [23:42] * Bauer nods. He goes to stand just as a man enters. The man carefully avoids looking around while approaching the bar. However, his gait and body language give him away immediately to Morgan as yensid [23:42] * @Morgan shakes his head at Bauer, nodding at the seat [23:46] * Bauer shrugs, sitting [23:47] * @Morgan motions at yensid, speaking quietly [23:47] (@Morgan) you know that one? [23:51] * Bauer nods [23:51] (Bauer) Skulky. [23:52] (@Morgan) you think this would present an opportunity to speak with him? [23:55] (@Morgan) and I'll discretely go and have a look among the trees, see if we cant solve two mysteries at once [23:57] * Bauer nods [23:57] (Bauer) As you wish [23:58] * @Morgan stands quietly and slips out of the door, making a beeline for the trees [00:02] (Bauer) *there is nothing of interest after ten minutes of looking* [00:02] * @Morgan comes back into the inn, bowing his head slightly [00:03] * Bauer is gone [00:03] * @Morgan looks for yensid [00:11] * Bauer is sat at a table reading a book [00:15] (Bauer) **yensid not bauer [00:15] * @Morgan wanders over and sits down opposite yensid [21:32] * @yensid looks up. He looks briefly surprised before covering it. He leans back arrogantly [21:32] (@yensid) Hello veisgraf [21:33] (Morgan) what exactly are you doing here? [21:35] (@yensid) Working. And yourself? [21:36] (Morgan) Doing... what? [21:40] (@yensid) Looking for information [21:40] (Morgan) about... [21:41] (@yensid) Something that doesn't concern you or your family [21:42] (Morgan) Then telling me will do no harm [21:44] * @yensid shakes his head [21:45] (@yensid) That's between me and my clie [21:45] (@yensid) Client* [21:45] (Morgan) scruplesm Yensid? You? [21:57] * @yensid sniffs [21:57] (@yensid) Yes, actually [21:57] * Morgan laughs [21:59] (@yensid) These clients are good people. Not all my clients are. [21:59] (Morgan) would that be a slight against me? [22:03] (@yensid) You were never my client [22:07] (Morgan) I suppose, technically, you're still working for my cousin [22:10] (@yensid) No, I haven't heard from her in two months [22:11] (Morgan) but you hadn't actually fulfilled your contract to her [22:13] (@yensid) What contract would that be? [22:13] (Morgan) the one to find me [22:13] (@yensid) I knew where you were [22:14] * Morgan shakes his head [22:14] (Morgan) Yensid, I've a job for you [22:23] * @yensid watches him [22:23] (@yensid) You want me to find Edward? [22:23] (Morgan) whatever makes you think that? [22:24] (@yensid) You're back in eisen [22:24] (Morgan) so? [22:26] (@yensid) He said you two had fallen out [22:26] (Morgan) funny, I heard that I'd beaten him to a pulp and nearly killed him... and that I'm habitually violent [22:33] * @yensid looks a little surprised [22:33] (@yensid) I hadn't heard that [22:35] (Morgan) you? hadn't heard some gossip? [22:36] * Morgan shakes his head [22:36] (Morgan) when did you last hear from him? [22:38] (@yensid) I'm not at liberty to say really [22:39] (Morgan) Yensid, I have neither the time nor the inclination to play guess what with you. Tell me where and when you last saw him [22:40] (@yensid) I was paid a _small_ sum to keep his secrets secret... I'd be doing myself out of business to give them away for free [22:42] (Morgan) well... if you wish to ignore the fact you are a retainer... I suppose I cant stop you. [22:42] * Morgan nods slightly [22:49] (@yensid) I'm a free agent, I take no money from the Graf [22:49] (Morgan) you're missing the point [22:51] (@yensid) Which is? [22:52] (Morgan) the clue is in the word retainer [22:52] * @yensid looks confused [22:53] (@yensid) You always insist on talking riddles [22:53] * Morgan shrugs [22:54] (Morgan) if you cant keep up perhaps you shouldn't be doing the sort of job you are [22:56] (@yensid) Most people talk normally. [22:57] (Morgan) normal... ok, lets do normal. Tell me where my brother is, or you'll be languishing in a cell until even your clients forget you [23:05] (@yensid) On what grounds? [23:06] (Morgan) witholding information required by a veisgraf, suspected actions undermining the eisenfurst... take your pick [23:22] * @yensid rolls his eyes [23:22] (@yensid) Too good just to pay up, eh? [23:23] (Morgan) tell me where and when, and I'll have a paying job for you. Hows that [23:28] (@yensid) I'll have to finish the ussur- uhh current job first though [23:29] (Morgan) You say they're good people? [23:29] * @yensid nods [23:29] (Morgan) tell me where he is [23:30] (Morgan) perhaps... I might be able to provide some assistance [23:30] (@yensid) Vendel, last I knew. What assistance? [23:30] (Morgan) Whats the job? [23:31] * @yensid watches Morgan [23:32] (@yensid) An ussuran moved here ten years ago. Seven years ago his family received a letter as usual, then no more. They want to know what happened [23:35] (Morgan) name? [23:45] (@yensid) Vladimir ageniska [23:46] * Morgan nods [23:46] (Morgan) where are you staying? [23:47] (@yensid) Here [23:48] (Morgan) the inn? [23:49] (@yensid) Yes [23:49] * Morgan nods [23:50] (Morgan) I'll see what I can do. [23:55] * @yensid nods [23:56] (@yensid) I'd rather you weren't involved but I think I'm doomed if I don't do what you want, aren't I? [23:56] (Morgan) You dont want my help? You'd rather continue to skulk in the shadows? [23:59] (@yensid) I don't like being blackmailed [00:00] (Morgan) You're not being... [00:03] (@yensid) If I don't cooperate you'll have me thrown in jail [00:03] (Morgan) you told me what I wanted to know... Now I'm offering my assistance so you can get onto the job I need done sooner [00:11] (@yensid) Which is? [00:18] (Morgan) Find Edward. Send him home. [00:21] (@yensid) So you are looking for him? After what you said, I doubt he'll come [00:22] (Morgan) Its not a request. He comes home, now [00:25] (@yensid) Why? Is the Graf I'll? [00:26] (Morgan) No... But thats his order. [00:27] * @yensid looks interested [00:28] (@yensid) Are you going to finish the job of killing him? [00:28] (Morgan) you saw you knew where I was [00:32] (@yensid) Yes [00:33] (Morgan) my reputation at the Torrington estate was not exaggerated... [00:33] * Morgan watches yensid [00:33] * @yensid nods [00:33] (@yensid) I'd heard of that [00:34] (Morgan) if I'd wanted to kill him... he'd be dead [00:35] * @yensid nods [00:36] (@yensid) Itll be quite expensive [00:36] (Morgan) You can raise an itemised invoice with the Graf upon completion [00:40] (@yensid) As you wish [00:41] (Morgan) lets be clear on this... His returning home is an order from his father, the Graf and the Veisgraf. [00:42] * @yensid nods [00:42] (@yensid) I'll tell him. It'll be at least 6 weeks though [00:43] (Morgan) as quick as you can Yensid [00:43] (@yensid) Of course [00:44] (Morgan) fairs fair... the quicker he arrives, the higher your potential bonus. [00:45] (@yensid) Its almost 3 weeks each way to travel [23:02] (mollyk) *bauer is nowhere around the inn [23:03] * @Morgan sighs and walks away from the inn [23:04] (mollyk) *theres no sign of him on the way back to the house [23:06] * @Morgan continues to the house [23:07] (mollyk) *bauer isn't there. The house is quiet [23:08] * @Morgan mutters, stalking through the house in search of coffee [23:12] (mollyk) *a maid in the kitchen makes him one, though barely makes eye contact [23:12] * @Morgan wanders towards the library, muttering [23:33] * @Mollyk is also heading to the library, he comes up behind her in the hall [23:36] * Morgan coughs slightly [23:39] * @Mollyk whips round, nervously [23:39] (@Mollyk) Oh! I wasn't expecting you back so soon [23:41] * Morgan shrugs slightly [23:41] (Morgan) Bauer did a disappearing act, and since I dont know the village, I came back [23:43] * @Mollyk frowns [23:44] (@Mollyk) That was rather rude of him [23:44] (Morgan) he reminds me of someone [23:46] (@Mollyk) Who, liebes herz? [23:47] (Morgan) me, as it happens [23:49] * @Mollyk grins [23:49] (@Mollyk) You're much more handsome [23:49] (Morgan) I think that'd depend on your point of view [23:53] (@Mollyk) Not at all. Providing your eyes work, I am correct [23:53] * @Mollyk is carrying two books [23:54] (Morgan) what've you got there? [00:00] (@Mollyk) I found another book so I thought I'd put them back [00:00] (Morgan) what are they? [00:04] * @Mollyk shows him. The first is the hunting one that was outside their room, the second is about identifying birds [00:05] (Morgan) strange [00:07] (@Mollyk) Very. [00:07] (Morgan) Karsten died in a hunting accident... [00:09] * @Mollyk looks surprised [00:09] (@Mollyk) I hadn't made that connection [00:16] * @Mollyk looks around [00:16] (Morgan) it just sort of stuck in my head [00:16] (@Mollyk) Do you know where the library is? [00:16] (Morgan) haven't a clue [00:17] * @Mollyk nods [00:17] (@Mollyk) We'll just check the rooms til we find it? [00:18] (Morgan) sounds like a plan [00:22] (@Mollyk) Did you find the man you were looking for? [00:23] (Morgan) skullky? Oh yes [00:24] * @Mollyk looks intrigued [00:25] (@Mollyk) Did you discover why he's worrying the overseer? [00:28] (Morgan) because he skulks and isn't known to them [00:31] (@Mollyk) But why is he skulking? Why not just say why he's here? [00:31] * @Mollyk tries a door but it's a small ballroom [00:32] (Morgan) I assume he did when Bauer spoke with him, but I was not in earshot [00:34] (Morgan) he told me he's trying to find an ussuran that was here but stopped writing [00:36] * @Mollyk frowns [00:37] (@Mollyk) Do you believe that? [00:37] (Morgan) I'm inclined to... he understands what happens if he tries to fool me [00:41] * @Mollyk smiles with amusement [00:41] (@Mollyk) Your reputation precedes you [00:41] (Morgan) not exactly [00:42] * @Mollyk looks confused [00:44] (@Mollyk) You were just forceful in making your point? [00:44] (Morgan) No, I'm known to him [00:47] (@Mollyk) How so? [00:48] (Morgan) He often does work for my family [00:48] (@Mollyk) But not at the moment? [00:49] (Morgan) apparently not [00:50] * @Mollyk looks thoughtful [00:50] (@Mollyk) Is he the one who had asked Siegfried about you in carleon? [00:51] * Morgan nods [00:51] (Morgan) Yensid [00:53] * @Mollyk nods, biting her lip [00:53] (@Mollyk) But him knowing you're here won't put you in danger, will it? [00:54] * Morgan shakes his head [00:57] * @Mollyk looks relieved [00:57] (@Mollyk) I'm glad to know that [01:02] * @Mollyk opens the door to the library [01:04] (Morgan) well done [01:04] (@Mollyk) Thank you [01:05] * @Mollyk smiles [21:49] * @Mollyk opens the door to the library. It's a relatively small room, all wood paneling and book shelves. [22:26] (AndroUser) *the room is empty [22:27] (Morgan) I've certainly seen more impressive librarys [22:36] * AndroUser nods, looking around [22:36] (AndroUser) It would have been quite daunting to me once [22:37] (Morgan) oh? [22:40] (AndroUser) So much that I could not read, in either language [22:41] (Morgan) I hadn't thought of it like that I suppose [22:41] * AndroUser smiles [22:42] (AndroUser) You forget that I was so far behind everyone else? [22:43] (Morgan) I wouldn't say everyone else... I think its one of those things I take for granted because I've been able to for so long [22:44] * AndroUser nods [22:44] (AndroUser) It's not a disadvantage anyone should have [22:44] * Morgan nods [22:45] * AndroUser looks at the desk. There's a pile of books there [22:49] (AndroUser) Wouldn't you expect the maids to put the books back? [22:49] (Morgan) You'd have thought so [22:50] (AndroUser) I suppose I could put them all back [22:50] (Morgan) I'd be interested in seeing what they are first [22:54] (AndroUser) *the books are all factual and related to nature or hunting. The only thing that ties them together is the authors surnames begin with g or h [22:56] * Morgan flicks through the books idly [22:58] (AndroUser) *even after looking at all 6, there's nothing of interest. Molly puts down the two she's holding, the same rough subject matter, both H surnames [22:58] * Morgan sighs, frustrated [22:59] * AndroUser watches him [23:00] (AndroUser) What is wrong, liebes herz? [23:01] (Morgan) I cant help feeling there's a link, some clue or something being dangled right in front of me [23:03] (AndroUser) Are we assuming all the books are here because they've been found around the house as we did? [23:03] (Morgan) possibly [23:10] * AndroUser nods. She studies the books for several minutes [23:14] (AndroUser) ((what does Morgan do)) [23:15] * Morgan browses the shelves [23:18] (AndroUser) ((where the * on the plan is)) by the window there is a sizeable gap on either side of a book [23:19] * Morgan reads the spine [23:21] (AndroUser) 'illustrations in GAP nothing . *she looks at the rolls of paper and the desk* maybe we should keep looking [22:57] (@Morgan) nothing stood out to me, but feel free [23:00] (MollyK) I'll take the desk if you like, while you do the rolls? [23:00] * @Morgan nods [23:04] * MollyK is busy with the desk while he unrolls the first paper. It's a large map of the konigsreich, spreading from fischler itself in the southeast to gottkirchen in the north west. Various areas are shaded particular colours. It's dated 1660, eight years previous. [23:06] * @Morgan studies the map, muttering to himself [23:09] (MollyK) *sudlachenburg is in yellow, Koln in red with innesbruck in orange. The maubourgs land in gottkirchen is blue. [23:10] (@Morgan) what were you up to... [23:15] * MollyK looks up [23:16] (MollyK) I was trying to understand why the depth of the desk is larger than the leg space [23:16] * @Morgan looks round [23:17] (@Morgan) sorry, I wasn't... [23:19] * MollyK smiles, disappearing underneath the desk [23:20] (MollyK) *there are 4 more scrolls* [23:20] * @Morgan looks through the others [23:24] (MollyK) *1663, 1666 both show small areas of land surrounding the Koln and gottkirchen areas becoming red and blue, more on 1666 than 1663. 1669, which would be next year, sees both areas massively expanded, pushing towards sudlachenburg from the west, north and east. [23:25] * @Morgan mutters [23:25] (@Morgan) now that would be silly [23:28] (MollyK) *the final scroll is less well drawn, marked 1672. In this, sudlachenburg is pressed tight by red, no blue in sight [23:29] (@Morgan) any luck Molly? [23:33] * MollyK sits up suddenly, banging her head on the underside of the desk. She winces. [23:34] (MollyK) That depends... How concerned are you about being proper and decent? [23:35] (@Morgan) not terribly [23:36] (MollyK) I was rather hoping you'd say that. [23:36] (MollyK) *there is some fidgeting followed by the sound of cracking wood [23:37] (MollyK) Yes! [23:39] * MollyK reappears some moments later with a box of letters plus a leather bound book [23:39] * MollyK grins [23:39] (MollyK) A broken desk in a hidden room that no-one seems to know of should be of no concern [23:42] (@Morgan) makes sense [23:43] * MollyK passes the letters to him. She takes out a hair pin and begins to pick the lock on the book. She looks excited [23:43] * @Morgan looks through the letters [23:43] (@Morgan) I'm beginning to think I've had a bad influence on you [23:44] * MollyK smiles at him [23:45] (MollyK) You can punish me for it later if you feel I've become out of hand [23:45] * MollyK winks as the lock pings open [23:48] (MollyK) *the letters are separated into three sections. The first appears to be letters from various women, all explicit in their content. The second are from his solicitor, and the third from Graf maubourg. There are about 100 letters in total of all three groups [23:48] * @Morgan starts with the letters from the solicitor [23:50] * MollyK slams the book on the table in disgust [23:51] (MollyK) It's coded! [23:51] (@Morgan) oh? [23:51] * MollyK rubs her forehead [23:52] (MollyK) The good news is that I have a crib sheet, thanks to the carelessness of the guests at Lady Catherine's [23:53] (@Morgan) the bad news is its... [23:53] (MollyK) From what I can see, a direct translation won't make sense. I should check the sheet to be sure though [23:54] * MollyK watches him. [23:54] (MollyK) Anything interesting in the letters? [23:56] (@Morgan) well... that lot *he points to a stack* appears to be smut... these are from his solicitor, and those *he points to the third stack* I'm very interested to read [00:00] * MollyK raises an eyebrow [00:01] (MollyK) Oh? Should we adjourn to somewhere brighter and more spacious to make it easier? [00:01] (@Morgan) it might be an idea [00:02] (MollyK) Should we take those paper rolls too? [00:02] (@Morgan) absolutely [00:03] * MollyK picks up the diary and the scrolls. She blows out most of the candles, leaving them one to leave by [00:04] * @Morgan collects up the letters [00:06] * MollyK goes out into the library, and waits for him. They head back to their room where they're least likely to be disturbed. On the floor in front of the door is a single spray of forget me nots [00:06] * MollyK looks questioningly at him [00:07] (MollyK) Did you...? [00:07] * @Morgan shakes his head [00:09] * MollyK bites her lip [00:10] (MollyK) I'd say perhaps coincidence, but it seems unlikely that my favourite flowers would have blown in and landed in the correct doorway [00:10] (@Morgan) quite [00:16] (MollyK) Perhaps enlisting your help wasn't enough [00:17] (@Morgan) evidently [21:31] * MollyK uses the key on the long ribbon to unlock the door. After putting down the book, she rings the bell and asks the maid for hot drinks and lots of paper. Whilst waiting, she digs through her trunk, finally pulling out a small note book [21:33] (MollyK) Here it is! [21:34] * @Morgan wanders to a chair, throwing himself into it [21:39] (MollyK) *after a few minutes the huge pot of tea and jug of coffee arrive, complete with cups and milk [21:40] * MollyK sits on the floor with her tea, spreading the blank paper around. Working from the two books, she makes notes on the paper. [21:44] * @Morgan starts reading the letters [21:52] (MollyK) *the solicitors letters start from just after the first map. They cover lots of purchases of land, tiny plots barely worth buying. After the first year, the letters start to refer to 'the plan' and percentages of land owned by karsten in fischler. By year three the solicitor refers to 'your associate' and includes his percentage also. The letters are very carefully worded to by unincriminating [21:53] * @Morgan mutters darkly [21:58] (MollyK) *the letters from maubourg span the same time frame. They are filled with alot of boring conversation, though almost every piece of land purchased by maubourg was clearly discussed. Karsten was definitely the mastermind of the scheme. From the mass of letters, Morgan can gather that maubourg thought they were buying the land to stop sudlachenburg being able to expand in future. MTF [22:00] (MollyK) In the long term, maubourg believed Varick would wed his daughters eldest daughter when she had children (though she now remains a spinster still). That would amalgamate their territories and make their heirs the strongest power in fischler. [22:02] * @Morgan frowns, going back to the solicitors letters, looking for the solicitors name [22:03] (MollyK) *his name is Herr Frankz. He isn't known to Morgan. [22:04] * @Morgan snorts [22:07] (MollyK) *at the bottom of the box is a letter out of date order. In it, maubourg comments on dietlindes death, saying that Adalbrecht should have forced you to marry Alarice when he had the chance, or the 'boyish' sister of hers, not some commoner from the village [22:08] * @Morgan folds the letter and places it inside a pocket [22:10] * MollyK continues what she's doing. It has been three hours since they came back to their room, and it's almost dinner time [22:14] (@Morgan) how're you getting on? [22:15] * MollyK sighs deeply [22:15] (MollyK) I wish I could say well [22:19] (@Morgan) oh? [22:21] (MollyK) It is rune symbols... But when translated it still makes no sense [22:21] (@Morgan) why? [22:22] (MollyK) The letters aren't words, and there are no spaces. [22:23] * @Morgan frowns [22:26] (MollyK) It doesn't mean I definitely can't read it, just that I have to figure out how the system works [22:26] (@Morgan) maybe its another code... or not words at all [22:27] (MollyK) Both are entirely possible... But who would write so many pages of non-words? [22:29] (@Morgan) its not terribly uncommon... during conflicts codes need to be secure but easily read by the right person... for example, a long piece of paper with seemingly gibberish on it would make sense only when wrapped around a particular size baton and read along the side of it... the letters lined up, see [22:31] * MollyK nods [22:32] (MollyK) Inigo and I had a long discussion about codes and ciphers one evening. The key to it is to note down exactly how you've tried to unlock it... [22:33] (@Morgan) save you retrying a method? [22:33] * MollyK waves her hand over ten sheets full of writing [22:33] (MollyK) There are plenty of methods not to attempt again [22:34] * MollyK looks to him [22:35] (MollyK) Exactly how clever was this man? Was he interested in puzzles? [22:35] (@Morgan) evidently he was clever enough... [22:36] * MollyK nods [22:38] (MollyK) If we are very, very lucky, the code will have been done to the original language. Avalon, Eisen, Montaigne I can easily recognise enough to know it is a successful translation. Would you know any others? [22:41] (@Morgan) possibly... its been a long while, but I could probably pick out a couple [22:42] * MollyK nods [22:44] (MollyK) If we're unlucky, the code has been done to the runes... And if we're very unlucky, first one set then coded on the other. This could be months or even years of work. Is it worth taking the time to translate? [22:44] (@Morgan) given whats in the letters, I'd say so [22:45] * MollyK smiles [22:45] (MollyK) If you wanted more smut, I could write it for you... Or act it, if you prefer [22:46] (@Morgan) I was more referring to an alliance with the maubourgs to control most of fischler, certainly to pen in Sudlachenburg, if not worse [22:46] * MollyK looks shocked [22:46] (MollyK) How dare they?! [22:47] (@Morgan) I'll ask maubourg when I next see him [22:47] * MollyK nods rapidly [22:48] (MollyK) I hope you ask him in writing.... The tip of your dagger as a quill! [22:48] (@Morgan) I told him that if I had something to say, I wouldn't imply it... I've got something to say now [22:49] (MollyK) So it is urgent for me to break the code? [22:50] (@Morgan) sooner the better... I can only imagine what that contains if _this_ is in plain language [22:50] * MollyK nods [22:51] (MollyK) But karsten was married to your cousin! Why would he do such a thing? [22:53] (@Morgan) well, I'd imagine that maubourgs idea of what would happen wasn't quite right... [22:55] (MollyK) Which was? [22:56] (@Morgan) marrying Varick off to maubourgs granddaughter, and cementing an alliance [22:57] (MollyK) He doesn't have a granddaughter! [22:58] (@Morgan) no, but he expected to [22:58] (@Morgan) after all, with her charm and wit and winning personality, who could resist that daughter of his [23:00] * MollyK giggles [23:00] (MollyK) Even I was tempted to marry her instead! [23:02] * @Morgan sighs [23:05] (MollyK) I'll ring the bell for them to bring my dinner up here. I wont be upset if you eat with Bauer in case he can shed some light on the situation [23:22] ** You are now disconnected (Network connection lost) ------------------------------ Logging started for Blitzed:#7thseaic on Sunday, March 17, 2013 11:22:27 PM Greenwich Mean Time ------------------------------ [23:22] ** Reconnecting to irc.blitzed.org:6667… [23:22] (396) 8qqojy44.bb.sky.com :is now your hidden host [23:22] -NickServ- Welcome to Blitzed IRC Network, MollyK! Here on Blitzed IRC Network, we provide services to enable the registration of nicknames and channels! For details, type /msg NickServ help and /msg ChanServ help. [23:22] ** You have joined #7thseaic [00:03] ** You are now disconnected (Network connection lost) ------------------------------ Logging started for Blitzed:#7thseaic on Monday, March 18, 2013 12:03:36 AM Greenwich Mean Time ------------------------------ [00:03] ** Reconnecting to irc.blitzed.org:6667… [00:03] (396) 8qqojy44.bb.sky.com :is now your hidden host [00:03] -NickServ- Welcome to Blitzed IRC Network, MollyK! Here on Blitzed IRC Network, we provide services to enable the registration of nicknames and channels! For details, type /msg NickServ help and /msg ChanServ help. [00:03] ** You have joined #7thseaic [00:04] ** You are now disconnected (Network connection lost) ------------------------------ Logging started for Blitzed:#7thseaic on Monday, March 18, 2013 12:04:15 AM Greenwich Mean Time ------------------------------ [00:04] ** Reconnecting to irc.blitzed.org:6667… [00:04] (396) 8qqojy44.bb.sky.com :is now your hidden host [00:04] -NickServ- Welcome to Blitzed IRC Network, MollyK! Here on Blitzed IRC Network, we provide services to enable the registration of nicknames and channels! For details, type /msg NickServ help and /msg ChanServ help. [00:04] ** You have joined #7thseaic [00:05] ** You are now disconnected ------------------------------ Logging started for Blitzed:#7thseaic on Thursday, March 21, 2013 10:46:36 PM Greenwich Mean Time ------------------------------ [22:46] ** You have joined #7thseaic [22:46] ** ipoh.uk.eu.blitzed.org sets mode(s) +nt [22:46] ** ChanServ sets mode(s) -o AndroUser [22:46] ** You're now known as MollyK [22:47] (MollyK) Test [22:50] ** Morgan has joined #7thseaic [22:50] ** ChanServ sets mode(s) +o Morgan [22:52] (MollyK) Test [22:53] * MollyK looks up from the papers [22:53] (MollyK) Would it be best if I continue this rather than come to dinner? [22:54] (@Morgan) if you wish to blossom [22:54] * MollyK nods [22:55] (MollyK) The sooner we decode this the better. We really do need to go to Seeufer soon to find the nanny also [22:55] * @Morgan nods [22:55] (@Morgan) absolutely [22:56] (MollyK) Are there things you need to do before we can? [22:57] (@Morgan) I want to have a word with Bauer about an Ussuran gentleman [23:00] * MollyK nods [23:01] (MollyK) Hopefully he can help you [23:01] * @Morgan nods [23:01] (@Morgan) hopefully [23:04] (MollyK) I'll see you after dinner then? [23:04] * @Morgan nods [23:04] (@Morgan) I'll have them send some up for you [23:07] (MollyK) Thank you, liebes herz [23:08] * MollyK looks back to the papers [23:08] * @Morgan stands and heads to the door [23:29] * Bauer is sat in the dining room drinking coffee when Morgan finds him [23:32] * @Morgan finds a seat [23:33] (Bauer) Good evening my Lord [23:34] * @Morgan inclines his head [23:34] (@Morgan) Bauer [23:34] * Bauer calls the servants to see to drinks [23:34] (Bauer) Is lady koertig to join us? [23:35] (@Morgan) no, she's working on something... just me I'm afraid [23:37] * Bauer smiles [23:37] (Bauer) I must say, your wife is a lovely lady, my lord [23:38] * @Morgan nods [23:39] (@Morgan) she is rather spectacular [23:44] (Bauer) You're a lucky man [23:44] * @Morgan nods [23:44] (@Morgan) undoubtedly [23:46] * Bauer gives instructions to the staff for dinner to be taken to Molly. He looks to Morgan [23:46] (Bauer) Have you been able to find any information that could help with the baroness? [23:49] (@Morgan) perhaps... as is always the way, everything leads to more questions [23:54] (Bauer) Is there anything I can do? [23:55] (@Morgan) how well do you know the house? [23:58] (Bauer) I've been here two years, so very. [23:59] (@Morgan) much as I'm loathe to put this into words... any secret areas? [00:00] (Bauer) Not that I know of [00:01] (@Morgan) well, doesn't hurt to ask... [00:02] (Bauer) There may be plans in my office somewhere? [00:02] * @Morgan shrugs [00:02] (@Morgan) no matter... did you speak to the skulker? [00:03] (Bauer) Briefly. He said he was trying to track down an old friend. [00:04] * @Morgan snorts slightly [00:10] * Bauer watches him [00:10] (Bauer) Sorry? [00:12] (@Morgan) I wouldn't normally look for someone in the forest [00:12] (Bauer) He did seem a bit strange, but quite harmless [00:13] * Bauer looks up as dinner is served [00:13] (@Morgan) I dont suppose he said who he's looking for? [00:13] (Bauer) No, he didn't [00:20] (Bauer) He didn't seem like he'd be willing to tell me [00:21] * @Morgan nods, sipping his coffee [00:21] (@Morgan) an ussuran [00:23] * Bauer looks confused [00:24] (Bauer) We haven't had an ussuran here in many years [00:24] (@Morgan) no? [00:25] (Bauer) There used to be an ussuran carpenter and his wife, but they've both been dead more than five years now [00:25] (@Morgan) oh? natural causes? [00:26] (Bauer) No [00:28] * Bauer sighs [00:30] (Bauer) Not some of kolns best times. People here are wary of strangers, and especially then, in the last few years of the war the war [23:42] (Bauer) Both died due to the actions of others [23:43] (@Morgan) thats hardly an explanation [23:48] (Bauer) You'll have to excuse my lack of memory on the details, it is about 5 or 6 years ago now, which was the same time I lost my second wife, so I wasn't very involved in local news... *he smiles sadly* or life in general [23:49] * @Morgan nods [23:49] (@Morgan) I understand [23:53] (Bauer) I suspected you might *he nods solemnly* [23:54] (Bauer) He was a good carpenter. If he'd been a bad carpenter, they may have had it easier. Alot of the furniture here was his work. [23:55] (@Morgan) talented foreign interlopers? [00:00] (Bauer) Talented foreigners who were suspected to be rich, though they showed no signs of it to begin with [00:00] (@Morgan) to begin with? [00:03] (Bauer) After a few years they had a nice house, and the wife was always nicely dressed, but then they had sold alot. People were put out by that, in a very ugly way. [00:03] (@Morgan) you think jealousy was behind it? [00:06] (Bauer) Jealousy, dislike of non-eiseners, greed [00:07] * @Morgan shakes his head [00:08] (@Morgan) its enough to make you sick [00:09] (Bauer) There had been many threats, and words had been had by the sheriff and even karsten himself. But eventually it went horribly wrong. [00:13] (@Morgan) evidently those words weren't strong enough [00:16] (Bauer) Not at all. Early 1663, two middle aged men, too unreliable to be in the war, broke in to the workshop, hit the carpenter on the head and robbed him. Unintentionally, they killed him. He wasn't found for hours and bled to death. [00:16] (@Morgan) his wife? [00:21] (Bauer) She was killed later, I think it was in 1664. Karsten had made a big deal of hanging the two who killed the carpenter. Supposedly when their sons returned from the war, they broke into the house and killed the wife whilst looking for this hidden fortune most of the village thought they had. [00:22] * @Morgan sips his coffee [00:22] (@Morgan) supposedly? [00:24] (Bauer) It always seemed a little odd to me. Surely they'd be mad at karsten, not the wife? [00:24] (@Morgan) that'd be my way of thinking, yes [00:30] (Bauer) There were some rumours that she was his mistress, but at that time those rumours existed about most women in the village [00:31] (@Morgan) any truth to them? [00:33] (Bauer) The strain that Alarices pregnancy put on their marriage did cause him to seek mistresses... Lots of mistresses [00:34] (@Morgan) what happened to the sons? [00:35] (Bauer) They swore blind it wasn't them, karsten banished them [00:36] * @Morgan sips his coffee [00:40] * Bauer frowns [00:41] (Bauer) So the answer to skulky finding his friend is definitely no. [00:42] (@Morgan) its not his friend... it might be worth trying to find out the names of the sons who were banished [00:44] (Bauer) I've probably got it in my office, the overseerers here have always kept a record of public punishments [00:46] * @Morgan nods [00:47] (@Morgan) I take it the hidden fortune was never found [00:56] (Bauer) Not at all. Nothing was ever recovered of any worth, and nothing to connect them to any family in ussura [00:56] (@Morgan) I was about to say that was unusual, but I carried nothing to connect me to Eisen, let alone to my family while I was away [00:57] * Bauer looks as if he's going to say something but doesn't [00:58] (@Morgan) you may as well spit it out Bauer [00:59] (Bauer) Begging your pardon, my lord, but I get the feeling you had on purposely run away to hide [01:00] * @Morgan nods [01:00] (@Morgan) more or less [01:02] (Bauer) What would an ussuran carpenter and his wife need to run to a small eisen village to hide from? [01:03] (@Morgan) who knows [01:03] (Bauer) Very odd. Sad though. [01:04] * @Morgan nods [01:05] (Bauer) Are you going to Seeufer soon? [01:05] (@Morgan) keen to be rid of me? [01:05] * Bauer smiles [01:06] (Bauer) Personally no, though I think some of the staff may be scared of you [01:07] (@Morgan) I seem to find that happens [01:07] (Bauer) Not kinner though, she's a tough old bird [01:08] (@Morgan) she's an interesting sort [01:09] * @Morgan sips his coffee [01:10] (@Morgan) did Karsten have much to do with the Maubourgs? [01:10] (Bauer) She has been here a while, she may know more than I about the ussurans [01:10] * Bauer nods [01:11] (Bauer) They came to visit a few times in my first year, but not after the funeral. They didn't seem to like alarice [01:12] (@Morgan) now theres a family that doesn't like me [01:16] (Bauer) I cant say they're my favourite guests. Why do they hate you? [01:17] (@Morgan) I think I'm too blunt for them [01:18] * Bauer nods [01:18] (Bauer) Perhaps so, my lord [01:18] (@Morgan) perhaps they're worried I'll discover something I wont like [01:21] (Bauer) Have they done something you won't like then? [01:22] (@Morgan) I was rather hoping you'd know [01:25] (Bauer) Nothing that I'm aware of. They were here when karsten died, but I don't suspect anything [01:25] (@Morgan) no? Why? [01:26] (Bauer) There was nothing to suggest it was anything but an accident [01:27] * @Morgan shrugs [01:27] (@Morgan) I'm given to understand there was some plan or other between them [01:30] (Bauer) They did spend alot of time together alone [01:33] (@Morgan) I think I'll be speaking to the solicitor about that when I get chance [01:34] (Bauer) That man is an arrogant sh-... Man. [01:34] (@Morgan) the solicitor? [01:37] (Bauer) Yes, I avoid him at all costs [01:37] (@Morgan) I'll be wanting to see him as soon as possible... no doubt he and I will get along swimmingly [01:39] (Bauer) You'll find him in Seeufer, his offices are there [01:39] (@Morgan) excellent [01:41] (Bauer) He's definitely a bad appl [01:41] (@Morgan) I'm sure he's just misunderstood [01:41] * @Morgan smirks slightly [01:42] * Bauer grins [01:43] (Bauer) I get the feeling that if the conversation doesn't go your way he may have alot of problems being understood in future [01:43] * @Morgan laughs [01:47] (Bauer) And it'd serve him right. I wouldn't take your wife near him though [01:47] (@Morgan) no? [01:50] (Bauer) He's just too slick. There's something about him that wouldn't seem safe for a woman [01:50] * @Morgan nods [01:50] (@Morgan) much as she's quite capable of dealing with a man like that, I dont think I'd like her to need to [01:52] * Bauer nods [01:52] (Bauer) Definitely [01:57] (@Morgan) do you think you can get word to skulky to come here? [01:58] (Bauer) Probably [22:05] * MollyK is still in their room when dinner is finished [22:08] (@Morgan) any luck blossom? [22:09] * MollyK is laid on her stomach on the floor, cheek resting on one hand. There are more than twenty sheets of paper around her, covered in letters, numbers, patterns. She sighs, looking up at him [22:09] (MollyK) I'm afraid not [22:15] * MollyK sits up, brushing the dust off the front of her dress [22:15] (@Morgan) thats frustrating [22:15] (MollyK) I wish Horatio was here to help us. [22:16] (@Morgan) he did have something of a talent for this sort of thing [22:17] * MollyK nods [22:18] (MollyK) There is every possibility that I can not decode it [22:20] * MollyK looks at him apologetically [22:21] (@Morgan) shame [22:22] * MollyK nods [22:23] (MollyK) Breaking a simple code is relatively easy, but this one is clever. We are also only decoding the thean characters, but the runes could be coded also [22:24] (@Morgan) just to make things really entertaining [22:24] * MollyK nods [22:25] (MollyK) In theory there may be a crib sheet for the thean, but if one was determined to use a clever code, they'd be smart enough to commit the codes rules to memory [22:26] (@Morgan) but that'd mean trusting anyone else meant to read it with being able to remember it also [22:29] (MollyK) But as nothing but a locked diary contained the code, perhaps the code was not used for communication with others? [22:30] * @Morgan nods [22:30] (@Morgan) that'd make sense [22:32] (MollyK) Although if they needed a crib sheet, it would be with them, not here? [22:33] (@Morgan) why wouldn't they both have a crib? [22:37] (MollyK) I don't know, I suppose they may have [22:38] * MollyK stretches [22:39] (MollyK) I think it may be a long night [22:39] * @Morgan nods [22:39] (@Morgan) I suspect you're right [22:40] (MollyK) You ought to sleep, liebes herz [22:40] * @Morgan chuckles [22:40] * MollyK looks puzzled [22:40] (@Morgan) I'll only be awake again in a couple of hours [22:41] * MollyK smiles softly [22:42] (MollyK) Perhaps. Did Bauer have any helpful information? [22:42] (@Morgan) he suggested I dont take you to see the solicitor [22:46] * MollyK frowns [22:46] (MollyK) Why? [22:47] (@Morgan) apparently he's rather slimey [22:50] * MollyK nods [22:50] (MollyK) And I can not take care of myself [22:53] (@Morgan) if what he says is true I'd rather not expose you to a man like that [22:54] (MollyK) That's very sweet [22:59] (@Morgan) I try [23:00] * MollyK stands up [23:01] (MollyK) Perhaps someone smarter than I could decode it [23:01] (@Morgan) is there such a person? [23:02] * MollyK blushes [23:03] (MollyK) Many, many of them. People who could read from childhood, people who have seen and learnt in the great cities of theah [23:03] * @Morgan snorts [23:05] (@Morgan) location of learning doesn't denote the quality of it [23:14] (MollyK) But there will be far more smart educated well-travelled men than smart local farmers who've never seen the sea, or an opera, or a museum [23:17] (@Morgan) thats a matter of debtate [23:20] * MollyK smiles [23:20] (MollyK) You overrate me [23:21] * @Morgan shakes his head [23:26] (MollyK) I'm nothing special [23:26] (@Morgan) you're wrong... even Bauer sees it [23:28] * MollyK shakes her head [23:29] (MollyK) I think he would just like to be on your good side [23:30] (@Morgan) no, I dont think he's particularly interested in that [23:31] * MollyK smiles [23:32] (MollyK) I don't know then [23:33] * MollyK looks down at the papers [23:34] (MollyK) I'd feel much smarter if I could just crack that [23:36] (@Morgan) I'm sure if anyone can do it you can [23:37] (MollyK) I appreciate that, I really do. [23:37] * MollyK smiles [23:38] (MollyK) If I'm going to be at this all night, I'm going to get into something more comfortable and drink some coffee! [23:38] * @Morgan nods [23:38] (@Morgan) good idea [23:39] * MollyK pours herself some coffee, asking if he'd like some [23:39] (@Morgan) please [23:41] * MollyK hands him a cup. She undoes her dress, throwing it over a chair. Her voluminous, white petticoats follow, leaving her in a plain, light shift and corset [23:41] (MollyK) Is it hot enough? [23:41] (@Morgan) plenty, thank you [23:42] (MollyK) I could have the servants bring more, it's been a while? [23:42] (@Morgan) its fine blossom [23:43] * MollyK undoes the laces of the tight corset, loosening the light blue ribbons cross by cross [23:43] (MollyK) I do not mind if you wish to sleep [23:44] (@Morgan) I suppose I may as well for a while... I'll give you some peace to work [23:45] * MollyK smiles playfully [23:45] (MollyK) You are rather distracting [23:45] * MollyK undoes the steel busks one by one [23:48] * @Morgan puts the cup aside and stands [23:49] (@Morgan) then I shall bid you goodnight [23:50] * MollyK looks concerned [23:51] (MollyK) I didn't mean that you distract me in an unpleasant way [23:51] (@Morgan) I know blossom, and I didn't take it as such [23:51] * MollyK smiles [23:52] (MollyK) I'm glad. Good night liebes herz [23:52] (@Morgan) goodnight blossom [00:10] (MollyK) *it's much, much later, far longer than he usually sleeps, when Molly slips in to the bed behind him, her skin warm on his [00:15] (@Morgan) I thought you'd be in sooner [00:17] * MollyK grins excitedly [00:18] (MollyK) I've been busy [00:18] (@Morgan) oh yes? [00:24] (MollyK) 'march twenty-sixth, sixteen hundred and fifty nine. I begin this journal for my sons and heirs, which I hope are many' [00:25] (@Morgan) I'll assume you cracked the code then [00:25] (MollyK) Oh yes! [00:25] * MollyK grins in the almost dark [00:26] (MollyK) You may tell me how wonderful I am, and I may even believe it [00:26] * @Morgan chuckles [00:26] (@Morgan) well done blossom [00:27] * MollyK runs her hand down his arm til she's squeezing his hand [00:27] (MollyK) Thank you for believing in me [00:30] ** Morgan has quit (Read error: Connection reset by peer) [00:35] ** Morgan has joined #7thseaic [00:35] ** ChanServ sets mode(s) +o Morgan [00:36] (MollyK) [00:27] (MollyK) Thank you for believing in me [00:36] (@Morgan) no thanks needed blossom [00:37] * MollyK squeezes his hand [00:38] (MollyK) I think I'm too excited to sleep [00:38] (@Morgan) want to give me the summary of the diary contents? [00:39] (MollyK) That I can't do. [00:39] (@Morgan) no? [00:40] (MollyK) I've only just cracked the code... It will take hours, and lots of paper, to translate it all [00:44] (@Morgan) I see [00:44] (MollyK) I'm sorry. [00:44] (@Morgan) dont be, you've done the impossible [00:45] * MollyK blushes, cheeks hot in the low light [00:46] (MollyK) I made a very basic error early on [00:46] (@Morgan) oh? [00:46] (MollyK) I didn't allow that the first letter might not have been coded [00:48] * MollyK rolls to her back [00:48] (MollyK) Mbqef is march [00:49] (@Morgan) one left, one right, two left, two right [00:50] (MollyK) In my mind it's up and down, but yes. And that continues til 26, at which point the letters are themselves. [00:51] (@Morgan) clever [00:51] * MollyK nods [00:52] (MollyK) Very. You can't force it as any letter is every other letter within a few lines. [00:53] (@Morgan) I'm impressed [00:54] (MollyK) Perhaps I didn't ought to tell you how I managed it [00:55] (@Morgan) why? [00:56] (MollyK) It doesn't speak well to the wholesomeness of my mind [00:56] * MollyK laughs softly [00:56] (@Morgan) I'm confused [00:58] (MollyK) I was thinking about you distracting me in the most pleasurable way... Up and down, up and down... [00:58] * MollyK giggles [00:58] (@Morgan) oh... I see [01:01] (MollyK) Not so smart after all [01:02] (@Morgan) smart enough [01:03] * MollyK smiles, stifling a yawn [01:04] (MollyK) So as it happens, I did need distracting! [01:04] * @Morgan chuckles [01:07] (MollyK) As you've got a grasp of the code, we could translate it together [01:07] * @Morgan nods [01:07] (@Morgan) that'd certainly help pass the time [01:08] (MollyK) Otherwise our only option may have been repeating our last coach ride [01:09] (@Morgan) entertaining as that was, we were very nearly caught [01:13] (MollyK) I still think it was worth the risk [01:14] * @Morgan smiles [01:14] (@Morgan) undoubtedly [01:19] * MollyK rests her cheek against his arm [01:21] (MollyK) We couldn't be caught right now... [01:24] * @Morgan leans on one elbow, looking down at her [01:24] (@Morgan) I think you're right [01:27] * MollyK giggles as she slips under the bed sheets. Sometime later, the sky lightening, they awake from a satiated slumber [23:43] (MollyK) *the early morning sun streams through the window. Molly's hair is fanned out over her white pillow, the deep red a magnificent contrast. Her face is sweet and simple as she lays sleeping beside him, sheet barely covering her nakedness [23:46] * @Morgan stretches [23:48] * MollyK stirs as she feels him move. She rolls to her side, watching him [23:53] (@Morgan) good morning [23:54] (MollyK) Good morning to you also, husband [23:54] * MollyK grins [00:01] (@Morgan) how did you sleep? [00:11] * MollyK 's eyebrows briefly rise and her smile broadens playfully [00:11] (MollyK) Wonderfully, once we eventually went to sleep! [00:12] * @Morgan chuckles [00:12] (MollyK) And you? I'm quite surprised to find you still in bed! [00:13] (@Morgan) as am I if I'm honest [00:14] (MollyK) Perhaps I wore you out! [00:16] * MollyK stretches, the sheet slipping down her body until she quickly pulls it back up [00:16] (@Morgan) perhaps I was just reluctant to leave your side [00:19] * MollyK smiles at him, blushing a little [00:20] (MollyK) It still thrills me to hear you say such things [00:20] (@Morgan) I must confess that I'm happy about that [00:23] * MollyK grins again [00:24] (MollyK) Not as happy as I. I rather think myself the happiest, luckiest woman in the world! [00:29] (@Morgan) you're easily pleased then [00:30] * MollyK laughs softly [00:31] (MollyK) Yes, I think that has been proven several times [00:32] * @Morgan nods [00:35] * MollyK runs her hand through her hair [00:35] (MollyK) I think I'd prefer to ride [00:35] (@Morgan) tired of coaches? [00:38] (MollyK) We'd be much faster on horseback, and as we're not staying long we wouldn't need much luggage... But if you'd prefer a coach that is also fine [00:38] * @Morgan shakes his head [00:38] (@Morgan) no, horseback is fine [00:39] * MollyK smiles [00:40] (MollyK) It'd be nice to pick up the pace a little [00:40] * @Morgan nods [00:43] (MollyK) I think even with the speed we'll not arrive in Seeufer til well into the evening [00:44] (@Morgan) no, probably not [00:45] (MollyK) Once we've found somewhere to stay we could work on the diary [00:46] * @Morgan nods [00:46] (@Morgan) sounds like a good idea [00:47] (MollyK) Then tomorrow we might look for the nanny [00:47] * @Morgan nods [00:48] (MollyK) And the solicitor [00:48] (@Morgan) I'll see him [00:48] * MollyK nods [00:49] (MollyK) As you wish, liebes herz [00:51] * MollyK stretches again [00:51] (MollyK) We'd best get up [00:51] * @Morgan nods [00:52] (MollyK) The longer I linger in bed with you the more likely it is that I won't want to get up at all! [00:53] * @Morgan sighs slightly and climbs out of bed [00:53] (@Morgan) I know exactly what you mean [00:58] * MollyK watches him [00:59] (MollyK) Someday I'm going to lock all the doors so that we can do just that [00:59] ** Morgan has quit (Read error: Connection reset by peer) [00:59] ** VirtualAdept has joined #7thseaic [01:00] ** VirtualAdept is now known as Morgan [01:00] * MollyK stands, not bothering to take the sheet with her [01:00] ** ChanServ sets mode(s) +o Morgan [01:00] (MollyK) [00:59] (MollyK) Someday I'm going to lock all the doors so that we can do just that (in case you missed it)) [01:01] * @Morgan chuckles, getting dressed [01:04] (MollyK) *once their preparations are made, they set off. It is a full days ride, though a very enjoyable one. The first time they come to land that was fought on, Molly looks quite shocked [01:05] (MollyK) It was bad here? [01:05] * @Morgan nods [01:07] (MollyK) Were you never concerned it would spread to sudlachenburg? [01:07] (@Morgan) always [01:08] (MollyK) Do you know why it didn't? [01:08] * @Morgan shrugs [01:13] (MollyK) I suppose it is quite awkward to get to? [01:14] (@Morgan) partly... and its so close to the forest that you really dont want to go in [01:16] * MollyK nods [01:17] (MollyK) Is a lot of Eisen like this now, trampled fields, unmarked graves? [01:17] * @Morgan nods [01:17] (@Morgan) sadly [01:18] * MollyK nods, surveying the scene [01:19] (MollyK) Just awful. All the brothers, sons, husbands, gone. [01:21] * @Morgan nods [01:23] * MollyK rides on. They see much more devastation before they reach the town. Molly is quiet and somewhat pensive by the time they arrive [01:27] (MollyK) Do you know the town at all? [01:27] * @Morgan shrugs [01:27] (@Morgan) a little [01:28] (MollyK) Well enough to find an inn? [01:28] * @Morgan nods [01:29] * MollyK follows him. [01:30] * @Morgan leads the way to an inn [01:33] (MollyK) *seeufer is an unattractive town with some unattractive pastimes. Tavern brawls spill in to the streets whilst gaudily dressed whores ply their trade and flash their wares [01:41] (@Morgan) charming place, no? [01:44] * MollyK frowns [01:44] (MollyK) It's... -*her nose wrinkles* different GAP [00:44] (@Morgan) [11:35pm] * MollyK reads it slowly, though is obviously avoiding eye contatc. She blushes hard [00:44] (@Morgan) [11:35pm] November 1661: She's already got some rather dirty tricks. If I didnt need her so much for the plans I'd be asking some pointed questions of her dim-witted father and her prim and proper uncle who has forbidden us enjoying each others bodies. [00:45] * MollyK looks up, gauging his reaction [00:46] (@Morgan) well... he is fairly correct about my father [00:48] * MollyK nods, still bright red [00:49] (MollyK) The umm rest is worse, though not about your father [00:49] * @Morgan nods [00:51] (MollyK) Are you -sure- you want me to read it? [00:51] (@Morgan) is any of it useful? [00:55] (MollyK) *she hands it to him. It says How does a 16 year old 'virgin' know so much about sucking a man? She's worth all her high-strung manipulative ways just for those few minutes in that mouth of hers. [00:56] (@Morgan) so... no then [00:57] * MollyK sighs [00:59] (MollyK) It does possibly imply that she may have been unfaithful before they were wed... Though I resent the implication that any woman in possession of unconventional knowledge must obviously be unable to control herself [01:00] * @Morgan nods [01:01] * MollyK shrugs, and goes back to the decoding [01:03] (MollyK) *his next entry is " winter 1661- 'The date is set for february. Maubourg is sulking, he wanted me to marry that plain jane he calls a daughter. No chance Mau, I wouldnt give my six inches to someone who has no idea what to do with it. Unlike Alarice, who I grudginly admit I may be starting to love." [01:05] (@Morgan) apparently the man has some feelings [01:11] * MollyK looks up [01:12] (MollyK) Oh? [01:15] * @Morgan reads the entry [01:16] (MollyK) ((the whole thing?)) [01:17] (@Morgan) ((yes)) [01:18] * MollyK looks surprised, then thoughtful, then amused in rapid succession [01:20] (MollyK) What woman doesn't want to know that a man is forced to admit he's -starting- to love the woman he's marrying (!) [01:21] (@Morgan) quite [01:22] * MollyK reads from hers several minutes later [01:23] (MollyK) " If only I could get her out of the hawkish supervision of the Koertigs! They're obsessed with her virginity, as if it is a shield that protects her from sin. I promise you it doesnt. If they knew half of the stuff that girl suggests... Still, not long. " [01:24] (@Morgan) and _he's_ the churchy one [01:25] * MollyK nods, sipping her freshly replenished coffee [01:26] (MollyK) Maybe Vaticine propriety is different? [01:26] * @Morgan shrugs [01:27] * MollyK is still working twenty mins later when he finds more [01:28] (MollyK) The land, once Hans is dead, officially goes in to trust for her firstborn, though the running becomes entirely mine. Some rather harse negotiations were had with the Graf, who incidentally is a pig-headed, condescending bastard, and I couldnt get him to budge on the land being then owned by me. But I have plans for him, both Maubourg and I do. That family is getting entirely too big for their boots, and I think its time action was taken. First port of call, befriend the younger son... [01:32] (MollyK) ((where did it get to?)) [01:33] (@Morgan) First port of ca [01:33] (MollyK) First port of call, befriend the younger son... [01:34] (@Morgan) now _thats_ interesting [01:35] (MollyK) What is, liebling? [01:36] (@Morgan) I wasn't aware of any relationship with Edward [01:36] * MollyK tilts her head to one side [01:38] (MollyK) No, me either. Alarice was always quite subdued if he was mentioned [01:38] * @Morgan nods [01:41] * MollyK reads from hers. By now it is almost one o'clock. [01:41] (MollyK) Feb 1662- 'Bought and paid for, the Koertig girl is mine now. I must admit, I'm actually glad. I'm fonder of her than I thought, and might have even taken her without the lands. I have a feeling I'll be too busy with her in my hands to do much plotting against the Graf for a while. [01:42] * @Morgan shakes his head [01:42] (@Morgan) I'm disappointed [01:42] * MollyK nods [01:42] (MollyK) He seemed so well liked [01:42] * @Morgan nods [01:42] (@Morgan) still, its giving me moer to discuss with Maubourg [01:43] * MollyK nods vehemently [01:43] (MollyK) Yes, do. [01:45] (MollyK) *another 15 minutes pass of tedious noble stories" [01:45] * MollyK throws down her quill [01:46] (MollyK) What an awful thing to do! [01:46] * @Morgan looks vaguely confused [01:46] (MollyK) " . I have put out feelers with the younger son, Edward, taking him hunting and drinking. I even bought the 15 year old his first whore. I cant imagine the look on his purity-loving father when he finds that out!" [01:47] * @Morgan nods [01:47] (@Morgan) cant say I'm terribly surprised [01:47] * MollyK 's eyes narrow [01:48] (MollyK) I suppose I may just not be as worldly as many, but that sits badly with me. [01:48] * @Morgan nods [01:49] (@Morgan) it might explain a fair bit about his more recent... exploits [01:49] (MollyK) Such as? [01:49] (@Morgan) his behaviour has raised a few eyebrows [01:50] (MollyK) I'm far from his biggest fan, but I don't think it's right to encourage that at such a young age [01:51] * @Morgan nods [01:51] (@Morgan) quite [01:52] * MollyK sighs, resting her cheek on her hand [01:53] (MollyK) Maybe I'm just too naive for the world of nobility [01:54] (@Morgan) we're not all like that [01:56] * MollyK looks at him, eyes soft [01:56] (MollyK) I know you aren't, liebes herz, nor your father [01:58] * @Morgan nods [01:58] * MollyK giggles [02:00] (MollyK) Your father made a point of telling me that your mother was his first and only . I really did not know how to respond! [02:01] (@Morgan) did you consider "well done"? [02:01] (MollyK) I think I said congratulations [02:03] * MollyK watches him a moment, before looking back to the decoding [02:12] (MollyK) *another half an hour passes, the entries dull once more. Molly stretches again before reading him the entry* [02:12] (MollyK) Aug 1662- Yet again she's not cleaved to me. I am begining to doubt her ability. Its definitely putting a dark cloud over my time in her bed. I give her my seed and she grows me nothing. This is not good for the Eldreich line, not at all. [02:13] (@Morgan) now that _is_ interesting... [02:15] (MollyK) They'd only been wed six months. Would it really be such a concern? ((Jana was conceived 5 months after the wedding, his view on it is entirely your call)) [02:16] (@Morgan) I would imagine it'd be frustrating [02:16] * MollyK looks intrigued [02:17] (MollyK) It isn't something I've ever thought of. In my family, -not- becoming pregnant is the biggest challenge [02:18] * @Morgan chuckles [02:18] * MollyK laughs too [02:21] (MollyK) I really wish I weren't serious, but my mother was pregnant 13 times in 17 years, my father is one of eight, my mother one of seven. My brothers have 3 children each from 5 years of marriage. [02:21] (@Morgan) thats... a lot [02:22] * MollyK nods [02:22] (MollyK) Almost constantly for her. [02:22] * MollyK shakes her head sadly [02:23] (MollyK) Poor mama. [02:23] (@Morgan) quite [02:25] * MollyK starts work again, biting her lower lip. He finds a fairly long entry [02:26] (MollyK) (( Nov 1662- Again I wake up in the blood of her failure. Frankly I'd rather sleep with my valet at this point. As it is, I've sought myself a mistress. I've had my eye on her a while, though not with the intention of actually making her my mistress, but I've lavished her with gifts [02:26] (MollyK) There's always been an attraction, but a good Eisen men doesnt take mistresses, as I've heard every day of my adolescence. I can only assume I'm a bad Eisen man, because now, two months after her husbands death, I've made Natasha my mistress in the most physical way.)) [02:27] (@Morgan) Mistress by november 62 [02:28] * MollyK looks up [02:28] (MollyK) But I thought he only started taking mistresses when Alarice fell pregnant? [02:29] (@Morgan) before, apparently [02:29] * MollyK shakes her head disapprovingly. [02:30] (MollyK) *a little while later, probably approaching two o'clock she reads again [02:31] (MollyK) Dec 1662- The alliance with Maubourg grows stronger. He's slowly buying parcels of land to expand his holdings, and I'll do the same in the new year. Just tiny holdings, small baronies here and tere. Schultz will be my lawyer as he was for my father. If anyone can help expand Koln, it'll be him. [02:33] (MollyK) This is the solicitor you're going to see? [02:33] * @Morgan nods [02:33] * MollyK drinks her coffee [02:33] (MollyK) And you'll wish me to stay here? [02:34] * @Morgan nods [02:34] * MollyK nods [02:34] (MollyK) I'll perhaps discuss theology with our hostess then [02:35] * @Morgan nods [02:35] (@Morgan) good idea [02:36] (MollyK) I wondered that you may not approve [02:36] (@Morgan) why? [02:36] (MollyK) Because of my religious history [02:38] * @Morgan shrugs [02:38] (@Morgan) if there's any plaec in Eisen where its least likely to cause trouble, I suspect this inn is it [02:39] * MollyK nods [02:39] (MollyK) It is unusual, a vaticine marrying an objectionist [02:39] * @Morgan nods [02:39] (@Morgan) very [02:40] (MollyK) Rather like a lord marrying a milk maid! [02:40] * MollyK sticks her tongue out at him [02:41] * @Morgan shrugs [02:41] (@Morgan) unusual but not unheard of [02:42] (MollyK) Rarer than an Eisen man marrying an Avalon woman [02:42] (@Morgan) that happens with surprising regularity [02:43] (MollyK) Its because Avalon women are the best sort [02:43] * MollyK grins [02:45] * @Morgan chuckles [02:49] (MollyK) And we're better a- *she closes her eyes, speaking quietly but obviously intending him to hear* no Molly, work! *she looks to him with a smile* you see the effect you have on me? [02:49] * @Morgan laughs [02:49] (@Morgan) my apologies my lady [02:51] * MollyK grins, going back to the decoding. Within seconds she is subconsciously pinching her lower lip GAP [01:59] * Marta invites them both in, offering coffee and cake. The house is tidy though in need of dusting [02:01] * @Morgan accepts coffee [02:02] (Marta) *molly accepts both, sitting as directed. [02:04] (Marta) I'm afraid I don't have long, the priest is coming to see my mother shortly *she looks a little sad, then pulls herself together. * what can I do for you? [02:05] (@Morgan) we were hoping to speak with you about your time working for the Eldreichs [02:06] * Marta looks cautious [02:06] (Marta) What would you like to know? [02:07] (@Morgan) how long were you Varicks nanny? [02:08] * Marta smiles at the thought of the little boy [02:08] (Marta) From birth until his father died [02:09] (Marta) *molly takes out some paper and begins making notes [02:09] (@Morgan) why stop then? [02:10] * Marta frowns [02:10] (Marta) It wasn't my choice [02:10] (@Morgan) why? [02:12] (Marta) Baroness Eldreich gave me notice to leave [02:12] (@Morgan) she gave no reason? [02:13] (Marta) She hadn't liked me for quite some time. I think she thought I was yet another mistress [02:14] (@Morgan) yet another? [02:19] * Marta watches him. Her gaze is disconcerting, making him feel like a child being questioned over missing sweets [02:19] * @Morgan tilts his head slightly [02:19] (Marta) I think now would be a good time for me to ask who you are, and why you wish to know [02:20] (@Morgan) my name is Morgan and I am trying to secure a safe and loving future for Varick [02:20] (Marta) You're the baroness' cousin? [02:20] * @Morgan nods [02:21] * Marta nods slightly [02:21] (Marta) Yes, I've heard of you [02:21] (@Morgan) all bad no doubt [02:21] (421) Me :Unknown command [02:22] * Marta nods unapologetically [02:22] (Marta) Most of it, yes [02:22] (@Morgan) out of interest... from whom? [02:24] (Marta) People talk about you being ruthless and violent. Karsten was also not your biggest fan. [02:24] (@Morgan) d'you know, that doesn't surprise me... and to an extent, the talk is correct... [02:25] * Marta smiles [02:25] (Marta) Gossip usually is, to an extent [02:26] * Marta eats some cake [02:26] (Marta) Karsten had many mistresses. I would guess at least 15 in the 5 years I worked for them [02:27] * @Morgan nods [02:27] (Marta) *molly shakes her head in disapproval whilst noting it [02:27] (@Morgan) and what of Alarice? [02:28] (Marta) Alarice avoided Varick and I for long periods. I know she had lovers, but I don't know how many [02:29] (@Morgan) she avoided him... when she did see him, how was her attitude towards him? [02:33] (Marta) That depended on her mood. Sometimes she was dismissive, other times she would lavish attention on him only to withdraw days or weeks later, leaving him confused [02:34] (@Morgan) not good for him [02:34] (Marta) No, he was hurt by it alot towards the end [02:36] (@Morgan) that seems to have held true right up until recent events... [02:36] (Marta) Recent events? [02:36] (@Morgan) he's been staying with us since his mother was rather flighty and abandoned him at my fathers home [02:37] * Marta nods [02:37] (Marta) I'd like to say I'm surprised by her behaviour, but I'm not [02:37] (@Morgan) how was Karsten towards him? [02:40] * Marta smiles [02:41] (Marta) He was a wonderful father. If he could have mustered even a tenth of that for his wife it would have been a much nicer place to live [02:41] (@Morgan) fights? [02:42] * Marta nods [02:42] (Marta) Often, and loudly [02:43] (@Morgan) unfortunate for Varick [02:46] * Marta nods [02:46] (Marta) Indeed [02:49] (Marta) *molly looks to her* [02:49] (Marta) You were present at his birth? [02:50] * Marta nods [02:50] (Marta) I was. [02:50] * Marta looks briefly at Morgan [02:51] (Marta) These are usually the sort of things men prefer not to hear of [02:51] * @Morgan shrugs [02:53] (Marta) I was just learning then, apprenticed to my mother *she talks more to Morgan* [02:57] * @Morgan nods [02:59] (Marta) The baroness had taken ten moons to fall pregnant, and her pregnancy was a difficult one. She was very sick and lost a great deal of strength. Hers was the first troublesome pregnancy I'd seen, I was rather naive. She suffered with many headaches and fainting spells, which is quite dangerous. [03:05] * @Morgan nods [03:06] (Marta) Her birth was difficult too, little progress for a great deal of pain, which she did not handle well. Eventually she delivered and the baby was slow to respond, and mother sent me off to get more hot water and cloths. *she watches Morgan for signs of faintness/queasyness* [03:07] * @Morgan watches her [03:09] (Marta) The baroness suffered a great deal of bleeding, so I was sent for the doctor. He examined her in her weakened state and warned my mother and I that any further pregnancies could easily kill her. She never gave him another child, though it was important to him [03:13] (@Morgan) Her birth was difficult too, little progress for a great deal of pain, which she did not handle well. Eventually she delivered and the baby was slow to respond, and mother sent me off to get more hot water and cloths. *she watches Morgan for signs of faintness/queasyness* [03:13] (@Morgan) [3:06am] * @Morgan watches her [03:13] (Marta) ((fuckers)) [03:15] (Marta) She bled awfully and it was touch and go. Mother was worried I'd be upset by the amount of blood so sent me for the doctor. The baroness nearly died. The doctor said the next child could well kill her, but she never gave him another. [03:19] * @Morgan nods [03:19] (Marta) Their marriage was damaged forever by that [03:20] (@Morgan) whyso? [03:22] (Marta) He wanted heirs, she'd been told to wait several years for another pregnancy [03:23] (@Morgan) but he had an heir, and she'd gone through hell to give him one... surely that would've brought them closer [03:26] (Marta) It wasn't enough for him. He wanted several. She wasn't happy either, she was so angry that it hadn't been easy, and blamed him for sowing the seed that broke her [03:27] (@Morgan) Were there any children from the mistresses? [03:28] (Marta) Not that I know of [03:28] * @Morgan nods [03:29] (Marta) *molly taps her pencil on the paper* that's a lot of mistresses to not cleave to him, perhaps they were tak- *she blushes hard- [03:30] * Marta smiles at her, confidentially [03:32] (Marta) Taking a mix of preventative herbs? In the early years, yes, they were directed to me for advice, mother having left by then. But towards the end he actively sought to make them bear children [03:33] (Marta) *molly relaxes, seeing that this is not a topic that bothers their hostess* [03:33] * Marta looks to Morgan [03:34] (Marta) Is there anything else you need to know? [03:34] (@Morgan) If you'd make a statement as to my cousins behaviour towards Varick [03:34] * Marta nods [03:35] (Marta) Of course I wi-... [03:35] * Marta gets interrupted from a voice upstairs [03:36] (Marta) MAE: Marta, is that the vicar? [03:36] (Marta) No mother [03:36] (Marta) Mae: I can hear voices [03:36] (Marta) It's nothing mother [03:38] (Marta) Mae: I'm dying, but I'm not deaf! *she laughs, and it's a pleasant, grand mothery sound. It's followed by the noise of slowly descending footsteps, interspersed with a cane [03:38] * Marta sighs quietly [03:39] (Marta) I'm afraid she won't give in until she gets to the bottom of this! [03:40] * @Morgan nods [03:40] (@Morgan) I can respect that in a person [03:42] (Marta) *molly rises, waiting politely as the old lady come in to the kitchen. She is well rounded, friendly looking. She looks them over.* well now, what do we have here? *she looks at Molly closely, who blushes under the scrutiny* not in the family way yet [03:42] ** You're now known as Mae [03:44] * @Morgan stands up [03:44] * Mae now turns her attention to Morgan, giving him an almost flirty wink, and tells them all to sit down. She looks quite well for someone who is dying and awaiting a priest [03:45] * @Morgan sits down [03:46] (Mae) And there doesn't look to be anything wrong with either of you.. . Not that thats always a good indicator, why I look fit as a horse but my time is soon [03:47] * Mae directs her conversation to Morgan [03:48] (Mae) I don't look a day over 25 eh? *she laughs* [03:48] (@Morgan) You've certainly got the spirit of someone of that age [03:49] * Mae nods [03:50] (Mae) That's what'll do me in, the mind is willing but the flesh is weak. Doctor says I've loved too much, laughed too much, cried too much and I've worn my poor old heart out [03:50] (@Morgan) I'm sorry to hear that [03:50] * Mae takes the biggest slice of cake [03:51] (Mae) And eaten too much! No need to be sorry, it happens to the best of us [03:52] (Mae) ((who is he watching?)) [03:52] (@Morgan) ((Mae)) [03:52] * Mae watches him while rapidly eating the cake [03:53] (Mae) I've delivered 314 babies since I was barely a woman myself [03:53] * Mae laughs [03:54] (Mae) Not me personally o'course. But I've helped women deliver them. [03:54] (@Morgan) nice to see you've kept yourself busy [03:54] * @Morgan grins [03:55] (Mae) Not quite as busy as all those mothers! [03:55] (@Morgan) I've no doubt [03:56] (Mae) So, you're not here for a midwife or healer, what do you want? I don't do courtin' nowadays [03:57] (@Morgan) We're enquiring as to your daughters time working for the Eldreichs [03:58] * Mae laughs as if it's the funniest thing she's ever heard. Molly and Marta look confused [03:59] (Mae) The Eldreichs! *she looks up towards the sky* I ask for a priest and I get this?! You really do work in mysterious ways! [04:00] * Mae watches him. [04:00] (Mae) Karstens kin had all died out [04:01] * @Morgan nods [04:02] (Mae) So who are you? [04:03] * @Morgan smiles [04:03] (@Morgan) not one of Karstens kin [04:03] * Mae rolls her eyes [04:03] (Mae) Really (!) [04:04] (Mae) One of the Koertig side then? [04:04] * @Morgan nods [04:05] * Mae studies his face [04:05] (Mae) The boy does look a little like you... [04:08] (Mae) What do you know so far? [04:08] (@Morgan) Difficult birth, poor attitude to Varick, things like that [04:09] (Mae) Difficult birth... That's not even half of it. [04:09] * Mae looks at the three of them [04:11] ** cchg has joined #7thseaic [04:11] ** cchg has quit (Client Quit) [04:12] (Mae) I didn't expect to take my final confession in front of a crowd, but that is his Will. Lets start at the beginning... ((if you need to pee, now would be a bad time ;) just kidding, now would be perfect time to switch)) [04:13] (@Morgan) ((gimme five mins to get swapped over [04:16] ** Morgan has quit (Quit: —I-n-v-i-s-i-o-n— 3.2 (July '10)) [04:27] ** Morgan has joined #7thseaic [04:27] ** ChanServ sets mode(s) +o Morgan [04:27] (Mae) I was born in Koln and became a midwife for my mother before attending other births. I even helped with Karsten himself. I delivered almost all the babies in Koln for several decades. [04:27] * Mae eats some more cake [04:28] * @Morgan nods [04:39] (@Morgan) So you knew Karsten his whole life [04:46] (Mae) I was quite friendly with the Baroness and Karsten, answering their questions when they were not conceiving. I knew Karsten had a mistress, a young Ussuran girl who had moved there with her husband, though the baroness didn't know. [04:46] (Mae) Yes, I did [04:47] (@Morgan) *he nods* [04:50] (Mae) When I was called to confirm the Baroness was pregnant, I couldn't help but laugh as I'd only the previous day confirmed that his mistress was pregnant also! Nothing for nearly a year, then two at once [04:50] (@Morgan) Interesting timing [04:53] (Mae) He must have been a busy boy that month. The baronesses pregnancy went badly, she had a great deal of trouble throughout. Natasha was the opposite, and in late August I delivered of her a boy. The following day, the baroness gave birth. [04:54] * Mae looks at Marta. [04:54] (Mae) You won't like this. [04:54] * Mae looks back to Morgan. Her expression is now solemn, somewhat repentant. [04:55] (@Morgan) Marta, could I have another coffee? [04:55] (Mae) *she gets him one* [04:56] (@Morgan) Thank you [04:56] (Mae) Alarice's labour was hard and slow. She was already bleeding heavily with each contraction. After several hours like this, she delivered, then passed out. [04:57] * Mae now looks her age, looking at the hands as if reliving it [04:58] (Mae) *molly watches between her and Morgan, brow furrowed [05:05] (@Morgan) *he watches her closely* [05:09] * Mae speaks slowly, in a room so quiet you could hear a pin drop, collective breaths held [05:09] (Mae) The little girl never drew a breath. [05:10] (@Morgan) *he nods slowly* [05:14] (Mae) Telling Karsten was hard, and watching him weep for his girl, and his wife. Within an hour he'd brought Natasha and the baby to the house. He swore me to secrecy, and said it was for the good of all. Natasha was Varicks wet nurse to all but Karsten and I. A month later and I couldn't bear the guilt, seeing that poor little angels face, buried like a dirty secret. So I came here. [05:14] * Mae looks to her daughter [05:14] (Mae) I'm sorry I lied to you Marta, but you were better not to know. [05:15] (Mae) *both the other women sit in stunned silence* [05:15] * Mae looks to Morgan [05:16] (Mae) Now I can meet my maker with a clear conscience, thank you. Do you have any questions? [05:16] (@Morgan) Three [05:16] * Mae smiles slightly [05:17] (Mae) You look like a questions man. Go on [05:18] (@Morgan) Are you absolutely certain Karsten was Varicks father? Given their struggle to begin with then, if I understand Marta correctly, his issues to sire with subsequent mistresses... [05:19] (Mae) Absolutely. Her husband had been dead 11 months when he was born, and she was an honorable girl [05:20] (@Morgan) *he closes his eyes briefly* Natasha... Where is she now? [05:21] (Mae) Marta: she was killed in a robbery. It was awful. She wasn't a wet nurse then, Alarice had picked a new one [05:22] (@Morgan) *he nods slowly*. I regret I have an extra question [05:22] (Mae) You've only asked two [05:22] (@Morgan) I have four in total now [05:23] * Mae smiles [05:23] (Mae) We are born knowing nothing, and leave knowing even less... [05:24] (@Morgan) Would you be willing to have this written in a statement on the basis it only be used if absolutely necessary? [05:25] (Mae) O'course. Write me the statement and I'll sign it. [05:26] (Mae) *molly starts writing* [05:26] (@Morgan) Thank you... Last question... Natasha's husband... Was he a carpenter, furniture maker? [05:26] * Mae nods [05:26] (@Morgan) *he mutters in another language* [05:26] (Mae) He was a good one too, made Karsten a lot of furniture. [05:27] (@Morgan) I don't understand how you can think Varick can bear a resemblance to me [05:28] (Mae) He does though. Perhaps somewhere in the past your families were linked? As soon as I saw you I realised why no-one ever questioned his parentage. [05:30] (Mae) *more coffee is handed around, and Molly finishes writing* ((is he watching her?)) [05:31] ** Morgan has quit (Ping timeout: 240 seconds) [05:45] ** Morgan has joined #7thseaic [05:45] (Mae) [05:30] (Mae) *more coffee is handed around, and Molly finishes writing* ((is he watching her?)) [05:45] ** ChanServ sets mode(s) +o Morgan [05:45] (@Morgan) *little bit((did you see his last statement?))* [05:46] (Mae) ((about the resemblance?)) [05:47] (Mae) *molly looks completely shocked and rather pale [05:48] (@Morgan) ((aye)) [05:48] * Mae reads the statement and signs it [05:48] (Mae) ((replied ages ago)) [05:28] (Mae) He does though. Perhaps somewhere in the past your families were linked? As soon as I saw you I realised why no-one ever questioned his parentage. [05:49] (@Morgan) *he finishes his coffee* [05:52] (Mae) Molly: I could do one for you also Marta and have it sent over? *she nods solemnly* please. [05:52] * Mae watches Molly very closely [05:53] (Mae) Yes... Or bring it over, and if I've survived the night, we'll have more cake [05:53] * Mae smiles at Molly encouragingly [05:54] (Mae) Molly: *she looks to Morgan* perhaps while you see the solicitor...? [05:54] (@Morgan) Good idea [05:54] * Mae smiles at him [05:55] (Mae) Thank you both for coming. I hope we managed to help you? [05:55] (@Morgan) You did, very much so [05:56] * Mae takes his hand, patting it [05:56] (Mae) Goodbye Morgan [05:57] (@Morgan) *he bows his head to her* [05:58] (Mae) *they all say goodbye, and Molly and Morgan head out in to Seeufer. It's now raining heavily, the previous nice weather blown east. There is no real choice but to make a quick dash for the inn. GAP [23:50] (@Morgan) * MollyK comes back, just as there's a knock at the door. The next fifteen minutes is taken up by servants removing the water, then the bath, and bringing them food. Molly waits til they're all gone before resuming the conversation [23:50] (@Morgan) [11:26pm] What would happen to the adoption? [23:50] (@Morgan) [11:27pm] <@Morgan> I'm not sure [23:51] * MollyK refills her cup [23:51] (MollyK) He's technically an orphan [23:51] * @Morgan nods [23:52] (MollyK) Would that make it easier? [23:53] * MollyK checks his cup/glass [23:53] * @Morgan shrugs [23:53] (@Morgan) possibly [23:54] (MollyK) What about the Eisenfurst? [23:54] (@Morgan) How do you mean? [23:55] (MollyK) If he doesn't know what we know, he's marrying his only heir to a woman he believes is of proven fertility [23:56] * MollyK studies his reaction [23:56] (@Morgan) I hadn't thought of that [23:56] * MollyK nods slightly [23:58] (MollyK) Though I don't like it, the hardest part of my heart says that may be of his own making by rushing through an ill-advised marriage between them [23:58] * @Morgan nods [23:58] (@Morgan) on the other hand... I like the Eisenfurst... [23:59] (MollyK) As do I... Which is why I dislike that I even thought it [00:02] (@Morgan) I did try to persuade him to take another course of action [00:03] (MollyK) Indeed. Is that enough to satisfy your honour I wonder [00:03] * MollyK watches him [00:04] (@Morgan) Something to think about it [00:04] (MollyK) There is a problem [00:05] * MollyK smiles apologetically [00:05] (MollyK) As usual [00:05] (@Morgan) oh? [00:07] (MollyK) Isiah and Alarice were here two days ago. They will be in Fischler by now. [00:08] * @Morgan nods [00:08] (MollyK) If you decide to intervene, time is of the essence [00:09] * @Morgan nods [00:09] (@Morgan) but I cannot intervene without revealing what I know [00:09] * MollyK looks thoughtful [00:10] (MollyK) Can you spare me a moment while I think it over? [00:10] * @Morgan nods [00:12] * MollyK pours a cherry brandy for her and tops up his blokners before going to stand by the rain-laced window, the repetitive noise somewhat soothing [00:12] (MollyK) He needs to know that Alarice could be very unlikely to produce an heir, yes? [00:13] * @Morgan nods [00:14] (MollyK) And we know a midwife who can testify that her pregnancy was difficult and her birth damaging.... [00:14] * @Morgan nods again [00:15] (MollyK) Could we conceivably only be as honest as we absolutely must? [00:15] (@Morgan) wouldn't be the first time I've done it [00:15] * MollyK laughs softly [00:16] (MollyK) Clearly I'm picking up your bad habits [00:16] * @Morgan chuckles [00:16] * MollyK sips her drink [00:17] (MollyK) Would you like a suggestion, liebling? [00:17] * @Morgan nods [00:22] (MollyK) Write to Fischler. Tell him you're gathering information that could be important in his decision to wed them but you need another day to get proof [00:22] * @Morgan nods [00:23] (@Morgan) good idea [00:23] * MollyK blushes [00:24] (MollyK) It'll take about 3 hours on the ferry [00:25] (@Morgan) best get writing then [00:25] (MollyK) Me?! [00:25] (@Morgan) I meant me [00:26] * MollyK laughs [00:27] (MollyK) Probably best. I suppose I should write an edited statement for Mae to sign [00:28] * @Morgan nods [00:28] (@Morgan) goiod idea [00:28] * MollyK comes back to the table and hands him paper and a quill. She begins writing [00:28] (MollyK) Will you write to your father? [00:29] * @Morgan sighs [00:29] (@Morgan) I'm not sure... Ideally I want to have decided a course of action before I do that [00:30] * MollyK looks up at him [00:31] (MollyK) I would make another suggestion, though I do not wish you to think I am second-guessing you, or disloyal to Sudlachenburg [00:31] (@Morgan) go on [00:31] * MollyK watches his expression carefully ((what is it?)) [00:31] (@Morgan) ((just curious)) [00:35] (MollyK) We follow the Morgan Rule... He doesn't need to know any more than 'it's only honourable to tell Fischler our new discovery regarding Alarice's future breeding'. Then if you decide to go public, we'll say we did not dare risk writing it all in a letter carried by an unknown messenger *she smiles at him, feigning that perfect innocence that she's shown him before* [00:36] * @Morgan nods slowly, taking a mouthful of blokners [00:37] * MollyK watches him slightly nervously [00:37] (@Morgan) not bad.... [00:37] (MollyK) You don't approve? [00:38] (@Morgan) I cant object too much to doing it again [00:38] * MollyK looks unsure [00:39] (MollyK) I feel a little guilty at deceiving your father [00:39] (@Morgan) its not strictly deceiving him [00:40] (MollyK) No, I suppose not [00:41] * MollyK smiles gently, finishing her writing [00:42] * @Morgan gets to writing [00:44] * MollyK watches him a few minutes while he does, then rings the bell for a servant, making arrangements for it to be taken urgently and await a reply if there is one [00:45] * MollyK sits back down after he's gone [00:45] (MollyK) One issue resolved, only another twenty or so remain [00:46] * MollyK smiles at him [00:47] (@Morgan) well, there's nothing like a challenge [00:48] (MollyK) Very true. [00:49] * MollyK goes back to the window, giving him time to write to his father and dispatch it [00:50] * @Morgan does so [00:50] * MollyK is chewing her lower lip when he shuts the door, deep in thought. She doesn't speak [00:52] (@Morgan) thats that done [00:54] (MollyK) Oh, yes. *she looks back to him* [00:56] (MollyK) I think we need some more information before progressing further [00:56] (@Morgan) yes? [00:57] (MollyK) It'd be beneficial to know what was in Karstens Will, and what living relatives he has... [00:57] * @Morgan nods [00:58] (MollyK) And your uncle's Will would clarify Innesbruck somewhat maybe [00:59] * @Morgan nods again [00:59] (MollyK) And we need to finish that damn diary in case there is anything that can help [01:00] (@Morgan) absolutely [01:00] (MollyK) I need to see Mae and Marta again tomorrow whilst you see the solicitor, providing you wish to? [01:01] (@Morgan) I need to I think [01:02] (MollyK) You need to know whether he knows about Varick and if he has the Will [01:02] * @Morgan nods [01:02] (@Morgan) and what he knows of the plan [01:03] * MollyK nods [01:03] (MollyK) Which raises a good point... [01:04] (MollyK) Does Graf Maubourg know and if so why hasn't he acted upon it [01:04] (@Morgan) I can only assume he doesn't know, he would've acted on it I think [01:05] * MollyK shrugs [01:05] (MollyK) Probably. We need to really think about who else may know [01:08] * @Morgan nods [01:10] (MollyK) Other mistresses, people in the village, yensid? [01:11] (@Morgan) Thinking about it, its the same couple hje was looking for [01:11] * MollyK frowns [01:13] (MollyK) Do we know why? ((Vladimirs parents hired him)) [01:13] (@Morgan) the mans parents hired him