[22:45] (Molly) **he sees noone on his walk, and it's only 5 o'clock when he returns. Molly is still asleep
[22:49] * @Morgan sits in front of the hearth, making tea
[22:51] (Molly) **his ability with fire is growing, becoming more refined. The decoding sits beside the cups. She hasn't gotten any further, obviously having fallen asleep
[22:51] * @Morgan takes up teh decoding, setting about doing some more
[23:04] (Molly) **several hours pass, the clock striking half past seven when he finishes
[23:08] (Molly) April 1668- I give Maubourg another year before I have to take action. He's amassed quite a lot of land on the northern border, and frankly he's getting too power hungry for my liking. I need a way to take his lands, and I suspect I'm going to have to do something drastic. On my deathbed I'll have to seriously make amends with my maker to absolve all these sins before I enter heaven.
[23:12] (Molly) October 1668- Alarice is still barren. I'm done with her. I'll just wait on my mistresses. Varick barely sees her now, weeks pass without her even asking for him. He spends most of his time with me, fishing, whittling wood, riding, hunting. He'll be a fine Freiarr, and even Graf, if I get my own way.
[23:12] * @Morgan sighs slightly, continuing
[23:13] (Molly) November 1668- Ive started refusing to bed Alarice, what point is there? She knows I think she's barren. She's angry, but also so sad. I feel pity for her. I've started paying court to Maubourgs plain daughter. If I can just get her to cleave to me, Maubourg will have no choice but to hand over his lands on his death
[23:13] (Molly) . I will have my heirs, and I will have my grafodm. It should have been ours anyway, long before the first Koertig made himself a Graf after pulling that stone from the Sudlache. Them and their stupid superstitions! That will have to stop when I am their Lord.
[23:17] (Molly) December 1668- The Maubourgs have come for Prophet's Mass. I haven't managed to bed her yet, but I'm getting close. Sudlachenburg has lost many of its contracts with the Eisenfurst and other Freiarrs. It's said that Adalbrecht has fallen in to a deep malaise with both sons gone. It's almost ripe for the taking. I'd feel happier knowing where Morgan was though.
[23:18] (Molly) February 1669- Miss Maubourg is putting up a fight, pleading her honour and virginity. I think Maubourg suspects my plan. If she doesnt yield soon, I'll have to take her by force. I need another heir, and I need it to come from her. Alarice is being hateful, flaunting her men, especially the disgusting Comte de la Fere. I haven't lain with her in months, the idea of going in after all these men sickens me
[23:19] * @Morgan chuckles quietly
[23:20] (@Morgan) squeamish, Karsten... really you surprise me
[23:20] (Molly) March 1669- Finally! Maubourg's daughter is well and truly ruined! Now to see if her belly swells. They're here for hunting again. By the time they get home I'm expecting her to have some interesting news for her father. I'm told by Edward's letter that his brother is in Carleon working as a farm hand. You can take a man out of the commoner but some traces remain...((this is the final entry))
[23:21] (@Morgan) if you were alive I'd kill you myself
[23:32] * Molly stirs
[23:33] (Molly) Liebes herz?
[23:34] (@Morgan) its ok blossom, I'm just talking to myself
[23:35] * Molly makes a small murmuring noise then goes back to sleep

[22:57] * Kinner knocks very quietly on the door
[22:57] * @Morgan gets up and opens it
[23:00] * Kinner smiles. She speaks quietly
[23:01] (Kinner) Good morning, my Lord. I thought perhaps Lady Koertig would like help dressing.
[23:01] (Kinner) **its about 7 o'clock
[23:02] * @Morgan looks over at Molly
[23:02] (Kinner) *she's still fast asleep
[23:03] (@Morgan) Give me five minutes, I'll wake her
[23:07] * Kinner shakes her head
[23:08] (Kinner) There is absolutely no rush, my Lord. As Lady of the household now, we wait upon her time of rising.
[23:08] * @Morgan nods
[23:10] (@Morgan) I've no doubt she'll wake before too long
[23:11] (Kinner) Oh, and you have a visitor, very disagreeable sort. I've put him in the hall for now.
[23:12] * @Morgan nods
[23:12] (@Morgan) could you arrange for some coffee, I'll go and see him now
[23:14] (Kinner) Would you like it to be taken to the drawing room or the study? Shall I bring your letters too?
[23:15] (@Morgan) study I think... I think I remember where that is
[23:18] * Kinner gives him directions
[23:18] * @Morgan smiles
[23:18] (@Morgan) thank you
[23:19] * Kinner curtsies and leaves
[23:19] * @Morgan leaves a note for Molly and goes in search of his visitor
[23:23] (Kinner) **when he gets to the hall, he sees Yensid sat sullenly picking at his nails on a chair reserved for unwelcome visitors
[23:25] (@Morgan) come on, I've got coffee coming to the study
[23:27] * yensid follows along. He looks tired and travel-worn
[23:28] (yensid) **he should have left Koln three nights ago, yet a messenger managed to find and return him in 12 hours*
[23:29] * @Morgan leads to the study, indicating a chair when he finds it
[23:30] * yensid takes a seat in the tidy, unpersonalised study. There's a large desk and some other furniture. It's a comfortable if neutral room. In one corner is the heavy wood cabinet with the missing key.
[23:30] (yensid) You sent for me?
[23:31] (yensid) **coffee is brought and left quickly*
[23:32] * @Morgan hands Yensid a cup of coffee
[23:32] (@Morgan) how'd they find you so fast? Normally you're like a rat down a well
[23:33] * yensid drains it
[23:33] (yensid) I had some goodbyes to say
[23:33] (@Morgan) you're a lothario, Yensid
[23:34] * yensid scoffs
[23:35] (yensid) So, what did you want? Changed your mind about Edward?
[23:37] * @Morgan sips the coffee
[23:38] (@Morgan) No, not exactly. I want a little information about this Ussuran family...
[23:39] * yensid shrugs
[23:39] (yensid) They're carpenters. They miss their son. He lived in Koln
[23:42] * @Morgan nods
[23:43] (@Morgan) I've secured you some work
[23:43] * yensid frowns
[23:44] (yensid) I'm a bit busy running off to find a wayward second-in-line noble
[23:44] * @Morgan watches Yensid
[23:44] (@Morgan) I know what happened to the Ussuran
[23:45] (yensid) What would that be?
[23:46] * @Morgan sips his coffee
[23:46] (@Morgan) whats it worth to you?
[23:49] (yensid) It'd make sure I didn't stop for any more goodbyes on the way to vendel
[23:49] (@Morgan) He was caught up in a burglary... he died
[23:50] (yensid) Who did it?
[23:50] (@Morgan) two locals... caught, tried, executed
[23:51] * yensid nods
[23:51] (yensid) And his wife?
[23:52] (@Morgan) she passed away a few years later
[23:52] (yensid) Do you know who she was?
[23:52] * @Morgan raises an eyebrow
[23:52] (@Morgan) meaning?
[23:53] (yensid) Where she came from, who her family are?
[23:54] (@Morgan) surely _his_ parents know all that?
[23:54] (yensid) No, he never told them anything other than that he'd married again
[23:55] * yensid looks a little annoyed
[23:55] (@Morgan) you take issue with that?
[23:56] (yensid) It makes my job harder
[23:56] (@Morgan) I dont see how
[23:56] * yensid watches him
[23:57] (yensid) Secrets are a nuisance. I don't have time for silly games
[23:59] (@Morgan) I dont see that it matters who she was... she's gone, no children from the marriage
[00:00] (yensid) People here say she was Eldreichs mistress
[00:01] (@Morgan) I dont see how that would matter... besides, that burglary was instigated because people here said they were obviously rich...
[00:03] (yensid) -He- definitely wasn't
[00:04] (@Morgan) whats your issue Yensid? Lets see if we cant put this problem to bed
[00:04] * yensid finishes his coffee
[00:05] (yensid) Just curious. I don't walk away from jobs without finding out all I can
[00:05] (@Morgan) professional ethics?
[00:07] (yensid) It boosts profits to supply additional information
[00:08] (@Morgan) I'd heard the same rumour of her being intimate with Karsten, but as far as anyone can make out, its just that. I dont see any additional profit for you in this case
[00:12] (yensid) Probably not. What job do you have for me?
[00:12] (@Morgan) A woman looking for her son
[00:14] (yensid) Sounds easy
[00:15] (@Morgan) not so much... the child was taken when he was a babe, she's not seen him since
[00:16] * yensid nods
[00:17] (yensid) You want this done before or after I find Edward?
[00:17] (@Morgan) Before... If you'll give me details of some of Edwards known associates, I'll send some letters
[00:18] * yensid laughs
[00:18] (yensid) If you aren't offended by writing to the madams of bawdy houses, of course
[00:19] * @Morgan smiles slightly
[00:19] (@Morgan) its their replies that worry me
[00:21] (yensid) Why?
[00:22] (@Morgan) letters sent aren't bawdy... the replies, well, I cant necessarily say the same for them
[00:25] (yensid) Most of them are fine women. As you probably know.
[00:25] * @Morgan watches him
[00:25] (@Morgan) Dont mistake me for my brother, Yensid....
[00:26] * yensid laughs
[00:27] (yensid) Your brother isn't the only man to frequent brothels. 
[00:27] (@Morgan) I've no doubt
[00:29] (yensid) You always were the good one. Where do I start with the new job?
[00:30] * @Morgan writes down the details he can remember
[00:31] (@Morgan) Miss Schulz is in Seefeur at the moment... I've a friend at one of the inns, she's expected there, he can put you up
[00:32] * yensid nods. He writes down 3 names and addresses in port towns in Vendel
[00:32] (yensid) There are Edward's best friends
[00:32] * @Morgan glances at the list, nodding
[00:33] (@Morgan) Once you're done with Miss Schulz, get in touch, I'll leave word as to whether or not I need you to hunt down Edward
[00:34] * yensid nods
[00:34] (yensid) You're paying me, I assume
[00:35] (@Morgan) Thats yet to be determined... you'll be paid, regardless
[00:36] (yensid) Good. Anything else?
[00:37] (@Morgan) I'd appreciate it if you kept your ear to the ground for any rumours that concern any of the lands the Koertigs currently control... including Koln and Innesbruck
[00:38] (yensid) Your father controls Koln and Innesbruck now?
[00:38] (@Morgan) No...
[00:39] (yensid) Go on
[00:39] (@Morgan) I do
[00:40] * yensid sighs
[00:40] (yensid) No doubt you'll have much work for me
[00:41] (@Morgan) Is that a problem, providing you get paid?
[00:41] (yensid) It depends. Running around after Edward gets very boring
[00:42] * @Morgan shakes his head
[00:42] (@Morgan) once he's home he'll be staying there, no running around after him needed
[00:43] (yensid) You don't have a brothel in Sudlachenburg, do you?
[00:43] (@Morgan) Not that I'm aware of...
[00:44] (yensid) You might want to invest in one if you want to keep Edward in one place!
[00:45] * @Morgan fixes Yensid with a stare
[00:45] (@Morgan) he'll stay where he's put, or he'll deal with me again
[00:45] (@Morgan) and if needs be, you can tell him that
[00:46] * yensid watches him
[00:46] (yensid) Why do you hate him so much?
[00:46] (@Morgan) I dont hate him
[00:49] (yensid) You threaten everyone now?
[00:50] * @Morgan tilts his head
[00:50] (@Morgan) actually, thats a pretty fair assessment
[00:50] * yensid nods
[00:51] (yensid) I'd best leave for Seeufer
[00:51] * @Morgan nods
[00:51] (@Morgan) Let me know how it goes
[00:52] (yensid) I will

[23:22] (Molly) **After dispatching yensid, Morgan realises his coffee is cold and his letters haven't been brought
[23:29] * @Morgan grumbles and goes in search of Kinner
[23:40] (Molly) **he's in the main entrance hall when he hears her upstairs* FK: what sort of pins?
[23:41] (Molly) Strong ones, at least two inches long. 
[23:41] (Molly) FK: what are they for, my Lady?
[23:41] * @Morgan climbs the stairs quietly
[23:42] * Molly laughs as she descends the flight of stairs above. She sounds happier, lighter
[23:43] (Molly) You'd be better off not knowing!
[23:49] (@Morgan) sounds ominous
[00:24] * Molly and FK round the corner.  Molly is wearing a dress he's never seen, her hair pinned high on her head. She looks radiant, carefree. She smiles warmly at Morgan
[00:25] (Molly) Nefarious, perhaps
[00:25] (@Morgan) ah, excellent... I've not done anything nefarious for... at laest three days
[00:26] * Molly raises an eyebrow
[00:27] (@Morgan) throwing someone out of a window counts as nefarious doesn't it?
[00:27] (Molly) I meant its much less than three days!
[00:28] * @Morgan shrugs slightly
[00:28] (@Morgan) close enough
[00:28] * Molly smiles warmly, continuing down the stairs beside him
[00:33] (Molly) Were you looking for me?
[00:34] (@Morgan) I was looking for Frau Kinner actually... is that the dress from Seefeur?
[00:34] * Molly nods enthusiastically
[00:34] (Molly) It is, does it please you?
[00:35] (@Morgan) I think we'll have to use that seamstress again, she's very good
[00:37] (Molly) Not the cheapest, I'm afraid
[00:37] (@Morgan) I think for that level of skill, its worth it
[00:38] * Molly nods
[00:38] (Molly) I rather like it
[00:38] * @Morgan nods
[00:38] (@Morgan) it suits you
[00:39] * Molly blushes becomingly. As she's about to reply, the main door opens
[00:43] (Molly) **the man at the door is blonde, no more than eighteen, an easy, innocent looking face. He isn't handsome yet, but has the potential to be. He looks a little untidy. He stops, staring. 
[00:47] * Molly looks at the lad then, finding the scrutiny a little too much, she looks to Morgan
[00:47] * @Morgan looks at him
[00:47] (@Morgan) Yes?
[00:49] (Molly) **he hastily bows* I am here to see the overseer, my Lord
[00:49] (@Morgan) and you are?
[00:51] (Molly) G:his son, my Lord
[00:52] (@Morgan) I've not seen him so far, so I'm afraid I couldn't tell you where he is
[00:54] (Molly) I'll look in his study, if that's alright, my Lord?
[00:55] * @Morgan nods
[00:55] (Molly) **he looks anxious and a little wary**
[00:55] (@Morgan) you have a problem?
[00:58] (Molly) G: No My Lord
[00:58] (@Morgan) You look... uncomfortable
[00:59] (Molly) **he bows again** I haven't met much royalty
[00:59] (@Morgan) Royalty?
[01:00] (Molly) G: Nobles, like you
[01:00] (Molly) **my Lord
[01:02] (@Morgan) interesting take on it...
[01:04] (Molly) G: *he just nods. After initially staring, he's now carefully not looking at Molly*
[01:05] (@Morgan) relax and go and find your father
[01:06] (Molly) G: yes, my Lord **he goes in the direction of the office*
[01:06] (Molly) FK: he's a very shy boy
[01:06] (@Morgan) so I see
[01:08] (Molly) FK: maybe he's here for the staff meeting. Did you want me for something?
[01:09] (@Morgan) I was wondering where the mail is...
[01:12] (Molly) **she takes it from her apron pocket, handing it over. There's two for him and two for Molly* breakfast won't be long. I'll go and find those pins
[01:16] * @Morgan waits until Kinner is out of earshot before speaking quietly
[01:17] (@Morgan) I take it I wont be using my axe...
[01:17] * AndroUser tips her head and whispers back
[01:17] (AndroUser) Not unless you wish to
[01:18] * @Morgan shrugs
[01:18] (@Morgan) I'll manage going without breaking something for a while
[01:19] (AndroUser) Would you rather I kept it a secret?
[01:20] (@Morgan) Not unless you wish to...
[01:22] (AndroUser) It doesn't trouble you that I can pick locks?
[01:22] (@Morgan) should it?
[01:23] * AndroUser smiles
[01:24] (AndroUser) I'm supposed to be a dignified, glamorous Veisgraffin, not a thief!
[01:25] (@Morgan) you're not thieving.... you're... facilitating our research
[01:26] * AndroUser giggles
[01:26] (AndroUser) And that is what people would presume I learnt it for?
[01:27] (@Morgan) probably not
[22:57] * Molly laughs softly as they reach the bottom of the stairs. She looks up at him, watching a moment before speaking 
[22:57] (Molly) Are you well this morning, liebling?
[22:58] * @Morgan nods slightly
[22:58] (@Morgan) aye, more or less... yourself?
[22:58] * Molly nods, giving him a warm smile
[22:58] (Molly) I am wonderful
[22:59] (@Morgan) well, I knew that already
[22:59] * Molly blushes and giggles
[23:00] (Molly) You are a shameless flirt, Lord Koertig
[23:02] * @Morgan shrugs
[23:02] (@Morgan) I try
[23:10] (Molly) It seems to come rather naturally to you
[23:11] (@Morgan) only with you
[23:15] * Molly 's eyes sparkle with mischief, but before she can respond they hear two sets of heavy, rushed footsteps heading in their direction
[23:19] * @Morgan sighs slightly, looking towards tghe sound
[23:19] (Molly) *Bauer and his son come into the hall at speed. Bauer throws his coat on. He spots Morgan* I'm sorry, the staff meeting will have to wait, something urgent has come up
[23:19] (@Morgan) being?
[23:21] (Molly) B: a fight at one of the inns gone sour. Currently it's 'attempted murder' but the victim is in such a way it'll be 'murder' within the hour
[23:21] * @Morgan glances at Molly
[23:22] (Molly) *Ghalen throws open the door, watching for horses to be brought up.*
[23:24] * Molly takes a deep breath ;;you're the veisgrafin and the stewards wife, just give commands, don't worry about justifications;; 
[23:37] (Molly) Bauer, go on ahead. I'm certain your son can lead us there in a few minutes.
[23:38] (Molly) *Bauer looks shocked, and briefly looks to Morgan for his response. Ghalen watches the floor, blushing*
[23:39] * @Morgan watches Bauer impassively
[23:40] * Molly doesn't wait for a response, and turns on her heel, rapidly ascending the stairs as if it's a done deal. Part way up, without looking back, she speaks
[23:41] (Molly) Please stop gawking as if I've grown another head and order more horses saddled as you leave..
[23:45] * @Morgan continues watching Bauer
[23:47] (Molly) [23:44] (Molly) *Bauer immediately goes out of the door, following orders. Ghalen stands looking out of the door, watching his father leave. He looks nervous.
[23:48] * @Morgan turns to follow Molly
[23:49] (@Morgan) wait there, lad, we'll be back shortly
[23:51] * Molly is heading back by the time he reaches her. Having made a swift but ladylike exit, he can tell from her flushed cheeks and heavy breathing that she's run to collect the small box under her arm. She continues to walk fast back towards the stairs
[23:51] (Molly) I'm so sorry, liebes herz
[23:51] (@Morgan) for?
[23:52] (Molly) Taking control
[23:52] * @Morgan shrugs
[23:52] (@Morgan) it worked
[23:54] * Molly nods
[23:54] (Molly) I wasn't sure it would
[23:54] * @Morgan turns back to the stairs
[23:55] (@Morgan) it woudl've one way or another
[23:55] * Molly frowns
[23:56] (Molly) There aren't many times I wish I were a man but that was one of them
[23:57] (@Morgan) No, they need to accept you've got authority here
[23:57] * Molly heads down quickly
[23:58] (Molly) They're always going to second guess me by checking with you, as the steward, the veisgraf, the husband. 
[23:59] (@Morgan) and they'll get teh same response as this time
[00:00] * Molly smiles as they reach the bottom of the stairs. She speaks quietly.
[00:01] (Molly) Perhaps later I may show you much I value that compliance...
[00:01] * @Morgan blushes slightly
[00:02] * Molly looks to Ghalen, completely unflustered.
[00:02] (Molly) Are the horses ready?
[00:03] (Molly) G: **he shyly responds* they only had two, my Lady
[00:03] * Molly looks to Morgan with a shrug
[00:03] (Molly) Can I ride with you?
[00:03] (@Morgan) of course
[00:07] * Molly strides out into the sunshine. Ghalen trails behind like a puppy. A few minutes later, they're following the blonde lad through the pasture lands towards the town. Thick rows of dark green crops fill the sun-baked fields, a promise for the harvest to come. Unlike Sudlachenburg, farming not fishing is their prime economy.
[00:09] * Molly leans back against his chest as they gather speed. The dark brown horse beneath them is almost the size of Xantha, their combined weight in no way a hindrance for its powerful strides
[00:10] (Molly) ;; how can I half heal this man? Anything more would be too obvious;;
[00:11] * @Morgan mutters quietly
[00:11] (@Morgan) half would be too much... you need survivable
[00:12] * Molly nods slightly
[00:13] (Molly) ;;is this too dangerous? ;;
[00:14] * @Morgan shrugs
[00:14] (@Morgan) we'll have to see when we get there
[00:18] (Molly) *a few minutes later they arrive at a large house. Yelling can be heard from the basement, two men shouting for freedom. The main door stands open. The house is not particularly fancy, but looks solid, utilitarian. Ghalen dismounts, tying the horses before leading them in. In the hall, a slim but well muscled man stands smoking a cigar. He bows to them.
[00:20] (Molly) I'm Lief, the sheriff. Bauer is with the victim trying to get a decent testimony, but its not likely now
[00:21] (@Morgan) have him clear out, bring me rope and bedding
[00:23] (Molly) **he immediately does so. Molly sighs ever so slightly. Ghalen helps, and soon everything is as Morgan wants, the three men standing in the hall.
[00:26] * @Morgan takes Molly into the room with the supplies and firmly shuts the door behind him
[00:28] * Molly takes a look at the man on the bed who is clearly unconscious and worryingly grey. His breathing is wheezy, shallow. She bites her lip, rolling up her sleeves. 
[00:31] * @Morgan stands to one side, watching
[00:32] * Molly gently lays her hands on him. He stirs slightly. She frowns, shaking her head a little. 
[00:33] (Molly) Hand me the blue bottle with the silver stopper from my case please, liebes herz
[00:33] * @Morgan does so
[00:33] * Molly speaks quietly
[00:34] (Molly) It will take a miracle to fix this
[00:35] * Molly pours a few drops into his mouth, and waits a few seconds. Some of the tension in the prone body dissipates.  Molly takes a deep breath.
[00:36] (Molly) This won't be pretty, liebling. I'm guided entirely by instinct rather than experience
[00:37] * @Morgan nods
[00:40] * Molly inserts the tip of her finger in to each of the lesser stab wounds one by one. Once she's done with each, it looks barely any different. Her jaw gets progressively tighter as she works, as does the set of her shoulders
[00:42] * @Morgan watches her patiently
[00:42] (Molly) It is significantly harder than doing it completely as with Claudia
[00:43] (@Morgan) Dont hurt yourself trying...
[00:43] * Molly moves to the huge wound in his side, inserting several fingers. She winces audibly, and he can see the pain in her expression
[00:44] (Molly) It doesn't matter
[00:45] * Molly looks to him. 
[00:45] (Molly) Can you find something loud to drop?
[00:46] * @Morgan holds out his axe at arms length
[00:46] * Molly nods
[00:46] (Molly) Three... Two... One...
[00:46] * @Morgan drops it on cue
[00:48] * Molly forces the broken ribs back in to place at just the right moment. Though masked from the others, the sound of bones cracking and grating is loud enough in the room to turn his stomach.
[00:49] * Molly sways a little, becoming lightheaded
[00:49] * @Morgan places a hand on her shoulder, steadying her
[00:51] (Molly) **he feels a heaviness in his hand, up his arm, almost a dull pins and needles. He notices a sudden tiredness.
[00:51] * Molly continues what she's doing. Suddenly the mans breathing changes
[00:52] * @Morgan keeps his hand on her shoulder
[00:54] * Molly gently removes her hand as the man's colour comes back rapidly, as if dropped in pink paint. His breathing becomes normal, rhythmic, a deep sleep.
[00:56] * Molly looks shyly at Morgan
[00:56] (Molly) I should wash my hands
[00:57] * @Morgan nods
[00:57] (@Morgan) I need to... arrange him
[00:58] * Molly goes to the wash stand, cleaning up. She hasn't noticed that there is blood on the cream bodice of her new dress
[00:58] (Molly) Arrange him?
[00:59] * @Morgan nods
[00:59] (@Morgan) to aid in explanation...
[00:59] * Molly nods
[01:01] (Molly) I was thinking of 'A milk of the poppy blend that requires Avalon herbs, which removes enough of the pain and bleeding to allow the body to mend. But your way may be more interesting
[01:01] (@Morgan) I was thinking something along the lines of Avalon medicine being more advanced
[01:02] * Molly laughs quietly
[01:02] (Molly) Great minds think alike
[01:03] * @Morgan like
[01:03] (Molly) ((sorry?))
[01:04] * @Morgan nods, smiling
[01:05] (Molly) If I bandage him after they've seen the wounds, there won't be any questions of a miracle
[01:06] * @Morgan nods
[01:06] (@Morgan) I'll be led by you
[01:08] * Molly smiles, then sways slightly once more
[01:08] (Molly) Oh damn!
[01:09] * @Morgan catches her
[01:10] * Molly faints, deftly caught by Morgan. It is several minutes before she recovers.
[01:17] (@Morgan) I'm wondering something…
[01:19] (Molly) Are you, liebes herz?
[01:19] * Molly watches him from the comfort of his arms
[01:19] (@Morgan) when I touched you...
[01:19] (Molly) Yes?
[01:20] (@Morgan) I felt drained...
[01:20] * Molly frowns
[01:21] (Molly) I'm not sure I'm comfortable with that
[01:21] (@Morgan) is it normally like that for you?
[01:22] (Molly) No, normally I feel fine. This time was different.
[01:23] (@Morgan) because of the magnitude of the task?
[01:24] (Molly) Perhaps. It was distinctly painful
[01:24] * @Morgan nods
[01:25] * Molly draws a deep breath
[01:26] (Molly) It concerns me. How far does this extend?  What other things can be done?
[01:27] (@Morgan) I dont believe this is the time for this conversation
[01:28] (Molly) No, I know. How do -you- feel now? **his tiredness remains**
[01:28] (@Morgan) a little tired
[01:29] (Molly) Maybe I can do something to help that
[01:29] (@Morgan) I'll manage
[01:29] * Molly smiles wryly
[01:30] (Molly) In that case you'd best let me go
[01:30] * @Morgan does so
[01:31] * Molly stands, smoothing her hair
[01:32] (Molly) Presentable enough to let the others in?
[01:32] * @Morgan nods
[01:32] (@Morgan) I'd say so
[01:34] (@Morgan) though you do have some blood on your bodice
[01:37] * Molly looks a bit saddened
[01:37] (Molly) I had hoped I'd left that sort of thing behind in tawstock
[01:38] (@Morgan) at least its not me this time
[01:39] * Molly nods solemnly
[01:39] (Molly) I hope that won't ever be the case again
[01:41] * @Morgan nods
[01:41] (Molly) **there is a knock on the door**
[01:42] (@Morgan) ready?
[01:46] * Molly watches him a moment longer than normal before saying yes
[22:46] (@Morgan) [1:48am] * @Morgan goes to open the door
[22:48] (Molly) **Bauer stands outside
[22:48] (Molly) My Lord, do you need any assistance? I've sent for the doctor
[22:50] * @Morgan nods slightly
[22:50] (@Morgan) do you know what happened?
[23:01] (Molly) Lief believes that there was a card game that this man won, the perpetrators called him a cheat, a fight ensued and one of the men stabbed him. How is he?
[23:02] * @Morgan motions him inside
[23:02] (Molly) *he looks past Morgan at the man, and Molly, sat on a chair looking a little pale. He frowns a little*
[23:03] (Molly) B:He looks improved
[23:05] * @Morgan nods slightly
[23:06] (Molly) **he looks to Molly** my Lady, would you like me to have someone bring you refreshments in the parlour?
[23:07] * Molly smiles a little. ;;I must look as awful as I feel then;;
[23:08] (Molly) If the doctor will be here soon, yes
[23:08] (Molly) B: **he bows, leaving the room**
[23:09] * Molly sighs. She looks tired, though still smiles for him
[23:09] * @Morgan mutters
[23:10] (Molly) Pardon?
[23:10] (@Morgan) this over a card game
[23:13] * Molly nods solemnly
[23:14] (Molly) As if Eisen has no other issues people could spend their energy resolving
[23:14] * @Morgan nods, sighing
[23:15] (@Morgan) how are you feeling?
[23:15] * Molly bites her lower lip slightly
[23:16] (Molly) In truth, not well at all. But I shall soldier on as best I can, we have much to do
[23:16] (@Morgan) maybe you should return to the house
[23:17] * Molly shakes her head
[23:17] (Molly) I would not abandon you when you need my aid
[23:19] * @Morgan sighs
[23:19] (@Morgan) as you wish blossom
[23:20] (Molly) You don't approve, liebes herz?
[23:20] (@Morgan) I worry for you
[23:23] (Molly) I think in this instance a degree of tiredness is to be expected
[23:23] * @Morgan nods
[23:25] * Molly looks at him, speaking quietly
[23:26] (Molly) Do you trust my knowledge of healing?
[23:26] * @Morgan watches her for a moment
[23:26] (@Morgan) of course
[23:28] (Molly) Then you will believe me when I tell you that this man's injuries were unsurvivable
[23:29] (@Morgan) absolutely... though I'd more or less ascertained that myself
[23:31] * Molly nods
[23:32] (Molly) And now he will most likely survive
[23:34] (@Morgan) seems a bit of an extreme reaction to a card game, cheated or otherwise
[23:36] (Molly) Hmm yes. What happens now?
[23:36] (@Morgan) investigation, I suppose
[23:39] * Molly nods thoughtfully
[23:40] (Molly) *Bauer returns. He looks at Molly with a troubled expression* I could have Ghalen escort you back to the house, my Lady
[23:41] * Molly looks briefly to Morgan,then Bauer
[23:42] (Molly) You will require my husband here then?
[23:43] (Molly) B: Require? No. I can have Lief present him the findings once we've spoken to the victim.
[23:48] (Molly) *Bauer looks to Morgan* Normally Alarice would deal with the consequences for the perpetrators. It is part of the steward's job
[23:48] (@Morgan) I'm aware of that. I'll want to speak to the other men
[23:50] (Molly) B: They are locked in the cells. 
[23:51] * @Morgan nods
[23:51] (@Morgan) good
[23:53] (Molly) B: would you prefer to wait in the parlour, or return to the house, my Lady?
[23:53] * Molly rises
[23:53] (Molly) I'll wait, thank you. 
[23:54] (Molly) B: **he looks at Morgan as if expecting an objection
[23:55] * @Morgan smiles slightly
[23:57] * Molly comes to Morgan, pressing his hand in hers. He instantly hears her thoughts, though can tell she isn't pushing them to him
[23:58] (Molly) ;;against the laws of nature...an abomination against Theus' will...'
[23:59] (Molly) Please let me know when you're ready to leave, liebes herz
[23:59] (@Morgan) Of course blossom
[00:03] * Molly follows Bauer. He returns a few minutes later, looking tense.
[00:03] (Molly) I'll show you to the cells, my Lord
[00:04] (@Morgan) You have an issue Bauer?
[00:04] (Molly) I wouldn't presume to tell a man what he should and shouldnt do with his own wife
[00:05] * Molly leads him through the house
[00:05] (@Morgan) Ah, you think I should order she return to the house...
[00:07] (Molly) If she was my wife, I'd have refused her to come at all
[00:09] (@Morgan) She's a very talented medic... the fact I am here at all is testament to that
[00:09] * Molly looks surprised
[00:09] * Bauer looks surprised
[00:10] (Bauer) A Lady medic?!
[00:12] (@Morgan) Avalon isn't as tranquil as you might think
[00:13] (Bauer) She looked very faint for a medic. Has she not had much experience?
[00:13] (@Morgan) She's had plenty... though its been a while
[00:15] (Bauer) Must be that then. I hope she feels better soon
[00:15] * @Morgan nods
[00:15] (@Morgan) I'm sure she will
[00:17] * Bauer leads him down a stone staircase. The shouts of the prisoners get louder
20:07] * Bauer leads him to what was more than likely a large cellar once, but is now a small room in front of two cells. It smells dank, musty. The prisoners both scowl sullenly from their straw-covered pallets. 
[20:11] * @Morgan stoops ever so slightly
[20:11] (@Morgan) gentlemen
[20:14] (Bauer) *both men are blonde, late forties, with the rough looks of hardened drinks. Each bears multiple facial scars. The one on the left stands up. 
[20:15] (Bauer) U: Who the fuck are you, and where's that bastard with the keys?
[20:15] (@Morgan) I'm here to find out what happened
[20:18] (Bauer) K: *the other man rises, coming to the bars menacingly* what business is it o'yours?
[20:19] * @Morgan lowers his head slightly
[20:19] (@Morgan) dont want the wrong punishments being handed out, that'd be an awful thing
[20:21] (Bauer) U: Punishments? From that whore in the Baron's house? Not bloody likely **both men laugh. Bauer bristles at Morgans side*
[20:21] * @Morgan looks surprised
[20:21] (@Morgan) you've not heard?
[20:28] (Bauer) U: heard what?
[20:29] (@Morgan) She's gone... married some big noble from the city... no no, a stewards been appointed
[20:32] (Bauer) K: Stewards are useless. 
[20:32] * @Morgan shrugs
[20:33] (@Morgan) we'll see... either way, I wouldn't like to get on his wrong side for not doing whats requested of me just yet, so...
[20:35] (Bauer) U: some bastard was cheating at cards, ran off with our money, so we took it back
[20:35] (@Morgan) succint, I'll admit, but hardly accurate...
[20:36] (Bauer) U: Thats wot happened, isn't it Karl **he nods*
[20:37] (@Morgan) and his injuries...
[20:37] (Bauer) U: you do what you have to when you're being robbed
[20:38] (@Morgan) So which of you stabbed him?
[20:38] (Bauer) U: me
[20:39] (@Morgan) because your fists didn't work?
[20:39] (@Morgan) or, perhaps, you have blades magically grow from your knuckles and didn't realise until it was too late?
[20:43] (Bauer) U: The first one
[20:44] (@Morgan) ok... how do you know he was cheating?
[20:44] (Bauer) U: he marked the cards
[20:45] (@Morgan) I see... thats unsportsmanlike... I take it the cards have been found? *he looks at Bauer*
[20:47] (Bauer) B: not yet
[20:48] * @Morgan nods slightly
[20:48] (@Morgan) How many were playing?
[20:48] (Bauer) K: just three of us
[20:52] (@Morgan) you realise that'll be a problem if the cards aren't found or marked?
[20:53] (Bauer) U: and if they are?
[20:54] (@Morgan) well, it'll count towards your version of things, you see? So the two of you couldn't make a single man give up his cheated money by just beating him...
[20:55] (Bauer) K: Do you understand wot 'e's on about? *the other man shakes his head*
[20:56] (@Morgan) well... it just seems unusual that two... persons such as yourselves couldn't coerce a man to surrender the money he cheated out of you without having to resort to stabbing him
[20:57] (Bauer) U: **he shrugs* he was determined
[20:58] (@Morgan) So rather than contact, say, Mister Bauer, or the sheriff... you tried to kill him
[21:00] (Bauer) U: I wouldn't say 'tried to kill him'...
[21:00] * @Morgan looks to Bauer
[21:00] (@Morgan) how many stab wounds?
[21:01] (Bauer) K: we didn't want 'im dead, just hurt enough to get our money back
[21:01] (Bauer) U: Shut up Karl!
[21:01] * @Morgan raises a finger to Karl
[21:03] (@Morgan) Mister Bauer... stab wounds?
[21:05] (Bauer) I counted six, but your wife would know better
[21:05] * @Morgan nods
[21:05] (@Morgan) I imagine he'd have been a nightmare to beat in a fair fight if it took a beating _and six_ stab wounds to stop him
[21:07] (Bauer) U: *he shrugs* he's a strong bastard
[21:08] (@Morgan) or more likely, you're a pair of cowards with no fear of punishment
[21:11] (Bauer) U: we ain't coward
[21:12] (@Morgan) I cant say the evidence so far is particularly compelling in support of that statement
[21:14] (Bauer) *both stare at him defiantly*
[21:15] (@Morgan) Well... I think thats all for now... I'll speak with the other man once he's more awake
[21:20] (Bauer) **they look quickly at each other* U: he's not dead?
[21:20] (@Morgan) That surprises you?
[21:22] (Bauer) U: there was lots of shouting from the sheriff
[21:22] (@Morgan) I've no doubt
[21:23] (@Morgan) Sheriffs do that
[21:27] (Bauer) K: the ones in Tannen and Stahlfort certainly did *the other man scowls at him*
[21:27] (@Morgan) So this isn't the first time you've had issues with a cheat, perhaps?
[21:29] (Bauer) U: don't say anything, Karl, you'll only get us in more trouble!
[21:30] (@Morgan) gentlemen, at this point, I dont think you can be much further into trouble
[21:34] (Bauer) K: yeah, we already did our time there!
[21:35] (@Morgan) Karl, is it? Lets you and me go and have a chat
[21:36] (Bauer) U: Bastard! Karl is a bit simple, he'll say anything
[21:37] (@Morgan) Well then, to ensure fairness... we'll stay here and you can shut up and let him tell me the truth
[21:37] (Bauer) K: Fuck off, Ulrich! * the two men square up through the bars*
[21:40] * Bauer watches Morgan, speaking quietly.
[21:40] (Bauer) Do you want me to get the key?
[21:41] * @Morgan nods slightly
[21:43] * Bauer disappears. The men shout and scream at each other
[21:43] (@Morgan) gents... enough. I want the truth and I want it now...
[21:46] (Bauer) U&K stare at him
[21:48] (Bauer) U: the cards were marked
[21:49] (@Morgan) you intended to kill him, right? He's a cheat, thats what he deserves, surely
[21:52] (Bauer) U: no just get our money back
[21:52] * @Morgan looks at Ulrich
[21:52] (Bauer) K: you were pretty drunk though
[21:52] (@Morgan) I believe I told you to be quiet
[21:52] * @Morgan looks at Karl
[21:52] (@Morgan) what was he drinking?
[21:53] (Bauer) U: why should I listen to you?
[21:53] (Bauer) K: blokners
[21:53] * @Morgan nods
[21:54] (@Morgan) that'd impair judgement, if you drink enough of it... was he wanting to kill him?
[21:55] (Bauer) K: not sure, 'e was pretty angry though
[21:55] (Bauer) U: it was your knife!
[21:56] (@Morgan) whose hand was it in?
[21:57] (Bauer) U: mine
[21:57] * @Morgan looks to Karl
[21:58] (@Morgan) when did Ulrich take the knife?
[21:59] (Bauer) K: just before 'e stabbed 'im. I was only gonna threaten 'im, see?
[22:00] (@Morgan) so why did you give Ulrich the knife?
[22:04] (Bauer) K: 'e took it 
[22:04] (@Morgan) what for? I mean, if you were going to threaten him, why would he need it?
[22:07] (Bauer) K: 'e's better at it than me
[22:08] (@Morgan) threatening?
[22:11] (Bauer) **he nods*
[22:12] (@Morgan) why didn't he stop after the first wound?
[22:15] (Bauer) K: I don't know
[22:15] * @Morgan looks to Ulrich... why didn't you stop after the first wound?
[22:18] (Bauer) U: wanted to make sure he'd stay down while we took the money back
[22:19] * @Morgan nods slightly, turning back to Karl
[22:19] (@Morgan) and what then?
[22:20] (Bauer) K: we took the money and ran, like in the other places
[22:21] (Bauer) U: oh for fuck sake Karl!
[22:21] (@Morgan) The same happened in other places?
[22:24] (Bauer) K: never stabbed anyone, just robbed them noble boys from the military school as had more money than sense
[22:25] (@Morgan) Karl, I want you to be completely honest with me now... did the man really mark the cards, cheat you? or was it just a robbery gone wrong?
[22:27] (Bauer) K: the cards were definitely marked
[22:28] (@Morgan) how could you tell? That is, how could you tell without Ulrich telling you?
[22:32] (Bauer) K: my dad was a card sharp, swindled lots of people with marked cards
[22:32] * @Morgan nods
[22:32] (@Morgan) why dont you do that?
[22:33] (Bauer) K: **he sighs* I'm really unlucky at cards
[22:33] (Bauer) U: it's because you're stupid and can't count!
[22:34] * @Morgan glances at Ulrich
[22:34] (@Morgan) you do it?
[22:35] (Bauer) U: I can, takes too long for my liking
[22:35] (@Morgan) so, what? you play properly, or just mug people afterwards?
[22:37] (Bauer) U: mostly. Times are tough in Eisen
[22:39] (@Morgan) I appreciate your honesty... You'll be staying here until I've spoken with the man you stabbed. Then a decision will be made... out of interest, what time have you served for knobbling the military school boys?
[22:41] (Bauer) U: four weeks in each place
[22:47] (@Morgan) Four weeks... I would imagine a lot of that was down to their embarrassment at being bested while at one of those schools
[22:47] (AndroUser) U: stuck up bastards
[22:48] (@Morgan) most of them, yes.
[22:53] (AndroUser) **bauer returns, handing Morgan the key** I can hardly believe it, but the victim has woken up!
[22:53] * @Morgan smiles
[22:54] (@Morgan) Excellent, I'll be going to speak with him... would you call my wife down please, we'll speak to him together
[22:54] (AndroUser) *bauer goes off to find her*
[22:55] (@Morgan) well, as I said, you'll be staying here until the Steward decides what action to take... good day to you gentlemen
[22:57] (AndroUser) *they go back to arguing*
[22:57] * @Morgan heads back upstairs
[00:01] * Bauer leads the way back up the stairs. He's tense, wide shoulders tense.
[00:01] (Bauer) What do you think?
[00:02] (@Morgan) It had a ring of sincerety about it
[00:07] * Bauer shrugs
[00:07] (Bauer) Now what?
[00:08] (@Morgan) now I'll speak with the victim... if you'd be so good as to find the veisgrafen, I'm sure she'll want to be there
[00:10] (Bauer) She was a little busy last time I saw her
[00:10] (@Morgan) oh?
[00:11] (Bauer) She was sweet talking Lief in to explaining the laws and punishments of Eisen
[00:11] * Bauer smiles
[00:11] (Bauer) She is shockingly persuasive
[00:12] * @Morgan nods
[00:13] (@Morgan) Yes, she is
[00:13] * Bauer nods towards a doorway that Ghalen is stood outside, staring in
[00:13] (Bauer) They're in there
[00:16] (Bauer) L: -and only cases of nobility an inheritance are dealt with by the Freiburg Judges. **he pauses* are you quite comfortable, my Lady? Would you not prefer to rest?
[00:16] * @Morgan stops at the door, peering in
[00:21] (Bauer) **Molly is sat behind the desk, a book in each hand, reading from each in turn. On the desk is a large map, and a hot cup. She looks focused, and where before she seemed tired and wan,  she is now vibrant, almost frizzling with energy. There is something almost hypnotic about her, every movement, every caress of sunlight over her hair, tiny change in her expression as she reads to herself. Beside Morgan, Ghalen is equally spell-bound, and Lief not much less.
[00:22] (Bauer) There is something almost hypnotic about her, every movement, every caress of sunlight over her hair, tiny change in her expression as she reads to herself. Beside Morgan, Ghalen is equally spell-bound, and Lief not much less.
[00:23] * @Morgan watches her for a few moments
[00:25] (Bauer) M: I am quite well, though I appreciate your attentiveness. Your job is rather fascinating. *she smiles at him, and this oh-so-tough sheriff blushes*
[00:26] (Bauer) G: **he sighs wistfully. The odd effect continues unabated, only intensifying as she smiles. *
[00:27] * @Morgan frowns slightly
[00:27] * Bauer , who is outside the room, coughs loudly. The sound is sudden, distracting.
[00:28] (Bauer) G&L both jump as if waking
[00:29] (Bauer) **he looks mildly annoyed at the interruption* yes? 
[00:32] * @Morgan glances at Molly before looking back to Lief
[00:32] (Bauer) *Molly looks up, blue eyes locking immediately to Morgan. She speaks softly, and the words feel like gentle fingertips gliding down his bare back. "Ahhh, liebes herz, I missed you" *her smile is soft, innocent*
[00:33] (Bauer) *Lief and Ghalen watch Morgan intently*
[00:35] * @Morgan looks back to Molly
[00:35] (@Morgan) I wondered if you'd care to join me speaking to the gentleman we met earlier
[00:40] (Bauer) *She nods a little* if that is your desire, of course I will. *G&L watch her as she rises, gracefully, every movement like an intricate dance. They bow to her as if she were a queen, and Morgan can't seem to think of any reason she doesn't deserve such treatment, and struggles not to do the same. Bauer moves Ghalen physically, coming into the doorway
[00:41] (Bauer) We really haven't got all day, he could die at any moment so let's hi- **he catches sight of Molly, expression becoming contrite
[00:42] (Bauer) I do apologise my Lady, that was unnecessarily rude of me. Please take as long as you wish.
[00:43] (@Morgan) No... we really should get on with it
[00:45] (AndroUser2) *molly smiles at them all in turn* you are all so chivalrous and kind, I thank each of you for your concern. *her gaze comes to Morgan, and stays there, watching him intently*
[00:46] * Bauer bows with the others as she walks to Morgan's side
[00:50] (Bauer) Molly: I am ready, liebling
[00:50] * @Morgan turns and leads out of the room, back into the hallway
[00:53] (Bauer) *the others don't follow, though the babble of hushed conversation is barely audible*
[00:55] * @Morgan speaks quietly
[00:55] (@Morgan) that was... unusual
[00:55] (Bauer) *she follows him. Even in her blood stained dress, she looks somehow regal
[00:56] (Bauer) Unusual, my love? They are not just criminals?
[00:56] (@Morgan) I mean them *he motions to the door* you're having quite the effect on them...
[00:56] * Molly looks surprised
[00:57] (Molly) Am I? I had not noticed.
[00:57] * @Morgan turns to look at her
[00:58] * Molly chews her lower lip. It's endearing, fascinating, hard to look away from
[00:58] * @Morgan watches her carefully
[01:00] (Molly) Was I impolite? Did I do something hideously un-Eisen? *she grins, eyes sparkling. It makes his heart skip a beat*
[01:00] * @Morgan shakes his head slightly
[01:01] (@Morgan) how are you feeling now?
[01:01] (Molly) Wunderbar! I feel... Alive.
[01:02] * @Morgan takes her hand
[01:04] * Molly brushes back loose strands of crimson hair. Touching her skin is like being healed by her, warm tingly, invigorating. Except more intense, more sudden, like being hit with a wave of vitality. It feels incredibly good.*
[01:06] (Molly) And you, liebes herz? Are you well?
[01:06] * @Morgan blinks slowly
[01:06] (@Morgan) there's something odd here...
[01:08] * Molly looks concerned, deep pink lips drawing in to a tiny pout of concern. It makes his mouth go dry.
[01:08] (Molly) Are you hurt? 
[01:08] (@Morgan) No... you're having a rather strong effect on the menfolk... stronger than normal
[01:11] * Molly laughs softly. It's slightly lower, as he's heard it after they've made love, especially after she's used her mouth to please him. 
[01:12] (Molly) Stronger than normal?
[01:12] * @Morgan narrows his eyes
[01:12] * Molly frowns deeply at his expression
[01:13] (Molly) What is wrong, liebes herz?
[01:15] (@Morgan) Something is different, and given my experience... that makes me suspicious
[01:16] (Molly) I'm afraid I do not see this difference you see
[01:17] (@Morgan) you're more... vibrant, I suppose... almost etherreal...
[01:19] (Molly) **he feels a hint of unease**
[01:19] (Molly) I doubt that is a positive improvement
[01:20] (@Morgan) Its intoxicating... but its... out of character
[01:21] * Molly looks at him through lowered lashes
[01:21] (Molly) I do not normally intoxicate you?
[01:21] (@Morgan) You know what I mean
[01:23] (Molly) **again, the little expressions and movements are spell-binding. The only thing he can liken it to is meeting the Summer Queen*
[01:24] * Molly laughs again, that laugh that sends his mind towards previous hearings
[01:24] (@Morgan) Its very... Sidhe like...
[01:26] * Molly stops laughing abruptly, eyes saddened. 
[01:26] (Molly) Oh. I'm displeased by that. Truly.
[01:27] * @Morgan watches her
[01:28] (Molly) **this is somehow just as impelling, tugging deep in his chest. Her sadness is as fascinating as her joy
[01:28] (Molly) Well, we have things to.be doing, we must press on
[01:28] * @Morgan stays still
[01:31] * Molly lets go of his hand. It feels immediately if part of him is missing. Her other hand gently strokes her palm, but if she feels the same as he, she doesn't voice it
[01:32] (@Morgan) Its... concerning, blossom... given the Sidhes penchant for trickery...
[01:32] (Molly) The Sidhe are not in Eisen, Liebling
[01:32] (@Morgan) who's to say? or perhaps something else...
[01:35] * Molly bites her lip once more before wetting it with the tip of her tongue deep in thought. This gesture is even more captivating than the previous ones
[01:35] (Molly) I feel quite well. 
[01:37] * @Morgan watches her a moment before nodding
[01:37] (@Morgan) very well...
[01:42] * Molly nods briefly before moving towards the room. The gliding effect continues, movements so fluid. Fabric caresses her shape, hair swaying like rhythmic waves against a ships prow, poised, perfect.
[01:43] (Molly) Do you have any questions you wish me to ask of him?
[01:43] (@Morgan) the two in the cells say he was cheating at cards... I want to know if thats true
[01:47] * Molly nods, pausing at the last moment, back to the door as he  gets close to it. Her eyes are wide, genuine, concerned. The part of him that contains his fierce desire and need to protect his loved ones goes in to overdrive from this look.
[01:47] (Molly) I'm so sorry to have troubled you so, my love
[01:48] (@Morgan) I'm just concerned for you blossom
[01:49] * Molly lowers her gaze to his chest
[01:49] (Molly) I am honoured by your concern
[01:53] (@Morgan) Its more or less my duty now...
[01:55] * Molly takes a deep breath
[01:55] (Molly) I suppose it is
[02:02] * Molly puts her hand on the door knob, taking half a step closer to him, though a few inches apart. Her eyes meet his. He is suddenly assailed with the remembrance of him pushing her hard against the door at Koln, her soft, scented skin under his lips, his tongue, his teeth. The memory is shockingly, breath-takingly vivid, stronger than he's ever picked up her thoughts before. She looks surprised, barely breathing
[02:03] (Molly) The memory is shockingly, breath-takingly vivid, stronger than he's ever picked up her thoughts before. She looks surprised, barely breathing
[02:04] * @Morgan blushes
[02:04] (Molly) Stop, liebes herz, I beg you. 
[02:04] (@Morgan) stop what?
[02:07] * Molly exhales slowly. He can see the pulse flickering wildly in her neck. Her pupils have massively dilated. Her grip tightens on the metal handle
[02:08] (Molly) Re.. Reading my mind. 
[02:08] * @Morgan looks confused
[02:08] (@Morgan) I dont see how I'm affecting you like that
[02:10] * Molly rolls her neck, stretching out her back. Still fascinating, there's something feline almost in it. As the muscles loosen, she makes a small noise of pleasure.
[02:11] (Molly) When you read my mind I could feel what you felt at the time, as well as how I felt, and those feelings bounced off each other until they became unbearable
[02:12] * @Morgan smiles slightly, before withdrawing his attention
[02:13] * Molly rests her head back against the door, blowing a steadying breath from between pursed lips. She closes her eyes a moment
[02:14] (@Morgan) That is something we'll have to explore when we have time
[02:15] (Molly) Is this how it feels when you read my emotions? You don't just -know- them, you -feel- them?
[02:15] * @Morgan thinks for a minute before nodding
[02:15] (@Morgan) thats about right
[02:15] * Molly frowns a moment, distracted, then looks back
[02:16] (Molly) But it doesn't multiply until you feel like you cannot bear any more?
[02:17] * @Morgan shakes his head
[02:18] (Molly) ** her other-worldliness remains, almost as if she were the only thing of colour in a world of grey tones.
[02:18] * Molly smiles
[02:19] (Molly) We need to work. Moreso, I need a distraction from the thoughts in my head and heat in my veins
[02:19] * @Morgan nods
[02:20] (Molly) Is it truly awful that I wish I could do to you what you just did to me?
[02:21] * Molly winks at him
[02:21] * @Morgan chuckles
[02:21] (@Morgan) later blossom, lets get this done
[02:22] * Molly opens the door. The man, in his fifties, is propped up with pillows, staring from the window
[02:24] (Molly) Sir? How are you feeling?
[02:25] * @Morgan sidles in behind her, keeping quiet for now
[02:28] (Molly) *he turns to look at her. For a man who was as good as dead, he has surprisingly good colour. He just stares at her, as if witnessing a miracle. She blushes, looking a little unsure of herself, and looks to Morgan
[02:28] * @Morgan speaks quietly
[02:28] (@Morgan) I believe she asked you a question
[02:29] (Molly) S: **he also looks to Morgan* I'm sorry. **he looks at her* I'm not sure if I'm dead or not. You look like an angel.
[02:30] * Molly smiles, modestly, charmingly.
[02:32] (Molly) Far from that, I'm afraid. You are not dead, your wounds were less serious than they seemed, and I have knowledge and possession of Avalon herbs that did the world of good.
[02:32] (Molly) **he hangs on her every word, as captivated as Morgan feels*
[02:33] (Molly) S: I owe you my life, I am forever in your debt
[02:35] * Molly shakes her head, which tosses her hair alluringly. It makes Morgans fingers itch to touch it.
[02:35] (Molly) Not at all. It is what I do. 
[02:36] (Molly) S: **he looks at Morgan** where are they?
[02:36] * @Morgan tries to look diminutive
[02:36] (@Morgan) why?
[02:38] (Molly) S: don't fancy hanging around for a second meeting
[02:38] (@Morgan) Dont worry, they're in the cells at the moment... once all the details are uncovered their punishment will be decided
[02:41] * Molly pours some tea for them all
[02:42] (Molly) S: what do you want to know? I swear on my honour as a navy man to tell the truth.
[02:43] (Molly) **he looks really sincere. There's an intelligence to his eyes, even though he has the complexion of a heavy drinker
[02:44] (@Morgan) I want to know what happened
[02:48] (Molly) **he takes his tea, watching Molly. She brings Morgan his, fingers grazing his. It still feels thrilling, revitalising*
[02:49] (Molly) S: I was in the tavern, two men wanted to play poker, one produced some cards, and we played. **he hesitates**
[02:49] * @Morgan sips his tea, waiting
[02:53] * Molly smiles at him persuasively. The force of it is almost commanding
[02:53] (Molly) Oh do please continue, sir
[02:54] (Molly) **he nods, staring* I tried to work out the way they were marked to use them to my advantage . It was only fair.
[02:56] (@Morgan) and you managed it?
[02:56] (Molly) I suppose that if they had marked cards, they would know how to use them...
[02:57] (Molly) **he nods** a rather simple system
[02:57] * Molly looks to Morgan
[02:58] (Molly) Were they found?
[02:59] (@Morgan) Not sure just yet
[03:00] (Molly) S: I have them.
[03:02] * @Morgan sips his tea briefly
[03:02] (@Morgan) I'll need them... which one of them produced the cards?
[03:02] (Molly) **he carefully fishes them from his pocket* the loud one
[03:02] (@Morgan) which one stabbed you?
[03:03] (Molly) Liebes herz, might I have a look?
[03:03] * @Morgan nods slowly
[03:03] (Molly) S: also the loud one, but the quiet one didn't stop him
[03:03] (@Morgan) did the quiet one encourage him?
[03:04] * Molly takes the cards. He hears quietly in her thoughts "The Lieutenant proves useful once more"
[03:04] (Molly) S: no
[03:07] * @Morgan nods
[03:07] * Molly deals five cards face down, looking at each a second or two. Then she flips them face up. With a smile, she goes to Morgan, expression playful. It's irresistible.
[03:07] (Molly) Pick a card... Any card...
[03:09] * @Morgan picks a card
[03:11] * Molly glances at the back a fraction of a second
[03:11] (Molly) Queen of hearts
[03:11] * Molly is right
[03:12] * @Morgan flicks the card round
[03:12] * Molly smiles
[03:12] (Molly) Entirely feasible that such a code could be deciphered and used against the cards owner
[03:13] * @Morgan nods
[03:13] (@Morgan) who'd the knife come from?
[03:14] (Molly) S: I'm not sure, I was trying not to get hit at the time
[03:15] (Molly) S: what happens now?
[03:15] (@Morgan) I think there's a few more questions to be asked of the other gentlemen before a punishment is decided upon
[03:16] * Molly looks at him
[03:17] (Molly) Is there anyone I can contact for you? Wife, children?
[03:18] (Molly) S: **he shakes his head* no, I haven't got anyone. 
[03:18] (@Morgan) How did you come to keep hold of the cards?
[03:19] (Molly) S: I put them in my pocket when they weren't looking. They didn't seem like they'd do much good for people with them
[03:19] (@Morgan) they told me the cards were yours...
[03:20] (Molly) S: they weren't. On my oath as a navy man, they weren't.
[03:21] * @Morgan nods
[03:21] * Molly looks briefly at Morgan before looking smoothly away
[03:22] (Molly) What did you do in the navy, sir?
[03:25] (Molly) S: *His demeanour changes, prouder, more focused* I was a master-at-arms. I shouldn't imagine a Lady like yourself has ever been exposed to rough sailors, but I was responsible for security, safety and running the ship between battles
[03:26] * Molly tries hard to conceal a smile, looking to Morgan without speaking aloud
[03:26] (Molly) Do you think being "exposed" to one's quartermaster counts?
[03:27] (@Morgan) What was the name of your ship?
[03:28] (Molly) The Iron Sky ((a vaticine ship Morgan had seen from the opposing deck))
[03:30] (@Morgan) Three gun decks and, I believe, a set of prow guns
[03:33] (Molly) S: I know it's a bit childish, but I loved that ship. When she sank I was furious. 
[03:33] * Molly looks up
[03:33] (Molly) I can entirely understand that
[03:35] (Molly) S: **he watches the mix of sadness and sympathy on her face so long that he forgets what he was saying
[03:35] (@Morgan) Who built the Vaticine ships?
[03:37] (Molly) S: various vodacce and Castille companies, though the Iron Sky was a Gottlieb
[03:38] (@Morgan) That explains a lot
[03:38] * Molly watches him with interest
[03:38] (Molly) Does it?
[03:40] (@Morgan) Castillian ships were notoriously weak along the beam, most of the sinkings took place in shallow water onec that was figred out... Vodacce ships were fast but not terribly well built... the iron sky took a monumental pounding to sink it, as did most gottlieb ships
[03:42] * Molly blinks slowly
[03:43] (Molly) I see. 
[03:43] (@Morgan) I should say that if you got broadsided by a castillian design ship, there was every chance you were sinking... generally speaking as soon as you realised it was castillian, you ran like hell to shallows
[03:46] (Molly) S: that is true. There was one captured by the objectionists and used against the fleet we were in at the time. It destroyed one of the ships and within an hour only the masts were visible
[03:47] * @Morgan frowns slightly
[03:47] * Molly looks down at her cooling tea.
[03:48] (@Morgan) The Eisen Hammer?
[03:48] (Molly) S: you know of it?
[03:49] * @Morgan shrugs slightly
[03:49] (@Morgan) Yes...
[03:50] * Molly watches him from the corner of her eye, trying not to laugh
[03:51] (Molly) Thank goodness the war is over!
[03:51] (@Morgan) for most, anyway
[03:52] (Molly) S: it's not always that easy, my Lady. Some of us cant go back to our civilian lives, it changes you.
[03:53] (@Morgan) Some people cant let go of the prejudices
[03:53] * Molly looks thoughtful, nodding a little
[03:54] (Molly) S: I suppose I didn't go for the same reasons as most. 
[03:55] (@Morgan) the money?
[03:56] (Molly) S: uhhh no, the umm... Women. My brothers told me women can't resist a man in uniform
[03:56] * Molly blushes
[03:57] (Molly) Perhaps now would be a good time to speak with the others?
[03:57] * @Morgan smirks
[03:57] (@Morgan) aye, good idea
[03:59] * Molly rises gracefully, smiling at the man before leaving
[21:41] * Molly waits for him in the hall, expression curious, eyes bright. The fascination continues.
[21:42] * @Morgan closes the door behind him
[21:42] (Molly) You wish me to accompany you?
[21:43] (@Morgan) They're... not the most agreeable sorts, but it is your choice blossom
[21:45] * Molly looks thoughtful, biting her lip
[21:46] (Molly) I'd like to try something first
[21:47] * @Morgan watches her
[21:49] (Molly) I think I'm beginning to see what you mean about my affects on men, I just want to test a theory... Ideally upon you
[21:50] * @Morgan nods slowly
[21:53] * Molly looks up at him through veiled lashes. Her lips part, softening. It's as if the air has gone from the room, all focus on her. He can't look away, can barely breathe. Entrancing, intoxicating.
[21:53] * Molly speaks quietly
[21:55] (Molly) If I asked you to make love to me, here and now, even knowing the consequences were we to be caught, could you resist me?
[21:56] (@Morgan) maybe... if I really try
[21:57] * Molly smiles cheekily
[21:58] (@Morgan) but... I dont _want_ to
[22:00] * Molly blushes, almost shyly. This innocent look is almost worse than the others, tugging deeply at his more animalistic natures. Then she smiles, and his control returns slightly
[22:00] (Molly) I think.... It is in some degree controlable
[22:01] * @Morgan nods slightly
[22:01] (@Morgan) yes?
[22:03] (Molly) Is the desire to follow my wishes as strong now?
[22:04] * @Morgan thinks abouit it
[22:04] (@Morgan) not as much, no
[22:10] * Molly leans back slightly against the door, tilting her head a little which exposes the length of her neck, pale delicate skin. She watches him with a sultry gaze, biting her lip before releasing it. The affect is strong, making him rock forward slightly. Much as he'd like to not feel it, his body heats, wanting to act. 
[22:10] * @Morgan grinds his teeth
[22:11] (421) Me :Unknown command
[22:12] * Molly drops her gaze, and he immediately feels calmer
[22:12] (Molly) Interesting...
[22:12] (@Morgan) I rather suspect that could make you a damn sight more dangerous than I am
[22:13] * Molly nods. Though still captivating, it does not return to the intensity of when she tries.
[22:14] (Molly) Perhaps so. If I'd asked you to be utterly truthful, could you have resisted the second time?
[22:14] (@Morgan) I dont know
[22:16] * Molly laughs softly
[22:17] (Molly) You have too much of an iron will to be brought to heel easily by me
[22:18] * @Morgan shrugs
[22:18] (@Morgan) maybe
[22:19] * Molly looks deep in thought
[22:19] (Molly) I'll come with you
[22:19] * @Morgan nods
[22:19] (@Morgan) as you wish
[22:20] * Molly nods
[22:20] (Molly) Perhaps I can help
[22:21] * @Morgan nods
[22:21] (@Morgan) I suspect so
[22:22] (Molly) **Bauer, Ghalen and Lief appear and, still watching Molly as if she were an angel sent from heaven, follow them down to the cells. They listen to whatever Morgan decides to tell them that he's learnt so far
[22:23] * @Morgan gives over most of the details, leaving out where the cards came from
[22:25] (Molly) **they all go in, the men waiting in the background.
[22:27] * Molly looks over the prisoners with an air of aristocratic authority. Though they watch her in the same way as the others, they seem more quiet, more deferential
[22:28] * Molly looks to them, then Morgan
[22:28] (Molly) I'm rather saddened that my lovely dress has been ruined, you know
[22:29] (Molly) **they look at each other a little guiltily
[22:32] * Molly goes to move a chair towards the centre of the room, but Ghalen immediately sweeps in to do it for her. Sitting, she watches the men.
[22:33] * @Morgan wanders to a corner, stooping slightly
[22:34] (Molly) I would hope we might have a speedy revelation of the truth so that I might change my dress to something more fitting. 
[22:35] (Molly) *both nod as if lowly serfs approaching their queen. She turns to Morgan* you have some questions I believe these gentlemen would like to aid you with?
[22:37] * @Morgan nods
[22:37] (@Morgan) I'm a little confused about the cards
[22:41] (Molly) *they look at him, then each other, then Molly. She raises an eyebrow enquiringly.*
[22:42] (Molly) U: they were ours
[22:42] (@Morgan) You told me otherwise... which throws everything into doubt, doesn't it?
[22:46] (Molly) U: **he just nods, staring at her. She meanwhile makes no effort to make eye contact with them, feigning boredom
[22:47] (@Morgan) so... what was the reason for attacking him?
[22:48] (Molly) K: Ulrich was angry with him.
[22:48] (@Morgan) for?
[22:48] (Molly) **even he barely draws his eyes away to look at Morgan
[22:49] (Molly) K: winning, using our deck against us
[22:49] (@Morgan) so, would it be fair to say you tried to cheat him and when you failed, retaliated?
[22:56] (Molly) U: we didn't try to cheat him! We were just playing the game, ignoring the markings. He didn't seem good enough for us to need to cheat
[22:57] * Molly watches him
[22:57] (@Morgan) He thought you were cheating him... a fair assumption, I'd say
[22:58] (Molly) It isn't very polite to lose one's temper when it need not be lost. 
[22:59] (Molly) U: **he looks taken aback* I apologise, my Lady. **he looks to Morgan* I can see how he might have thought that
[23:00] (@Morgan) Did you itnend to kill him?
[23:02] (Molly) U: **he looks to consider his answer. Molly coughs quietly. He sighs* I don't know. I was really angry.
[23:02] (Molly) K: And drunk.
[23:06] (Molly) U: **he nods**
[23:07] (@Morgan) I see
[23:07] * Molly watches him
[23:08] (Molly) Drunk enough that you were not in control of yourself or your actions?
[23:09] (Molly) U: **he shakes his head** no, I knew what I was doing.
[23:13] * Molly looks to Morgan, waiting for him to continue.
[23:13] (Molly) I am sorry to interrupt, my Lord...
[23:14] * @Morgan shakes his head slightly
[23:15] (@Morgan) Not to worry
[23:18] (@Morgan) We have quite a problem gentlemen... not only are your actions very troubling, you have a history of doing similar, and you lied to me the first time round
[23:19] (Molly) K: **he looks at Molly with near adoration* please my Lady, please help us. If anyone can save us, it must be you
[23:21] * Molly looks genuinely surprised, and also unsure of herself. From the corner of his eye, he sees Lief and Ghalen bristle as if ready to spring to her aid. His own protective desire for her, formed in their very early friendship kicks in deeply
[23:25] (@Morgan) I'm afraid, gentlemen, thats up to the steward
[23:26] (Molly) I have aided you by preventing your crime being murder. I will not plead on your behalf. 
[23:27] * Molly 's expression is solemn, perhaps even a little stern, yet it does not diminish its ability to fascinate
[23:28] (Molly) *they both look at her forlornly, as if she has somehow abandoned them. She rises, moving to Morgan. 
[23:29] (Molly) If you'll excuse me, my Lord
[23:29] * @Morgan inclines his head
[23:32] * Molly heads out, Ghalen following her like a page
[23:33] (Molly) *slowly the prisoners demeanors change*
[23:34] (Molly) U: who is this steward anyhow? Some friend of the Eisenfurst with nothing better to do?
[23:35] (Molly) K: they're always the sort that gets this sorta job.  **his accent, missing in her presence, returns*
[23:35] (@Morgan) Baronnesses cousin, you konw, the violent one?
[23:37] (Molly) U: I thought he went mad over what happened to his wife and kid and got locked in an asylum
[23:37] (@Morgan) No no, the word is he was in Avalon with a task for the Eisenfurst
[23:38] (Molly) U: no hope for mercy there then
[23:39] * @Morgan shrugs
[23:39] (@Morgan) I hear he's fair
[23:40] (Molly) U: violent AND fair? Not likely
[23:41] * @Morgan nods
[23:41] (@Morgan) you've met him, Bauer, whats your view on him?
[23:43] (Molly) B: He's fair but firm.
[23:45] (Molly) U: **he nods** when will we know?
[23:45] * @Morgan shrugs
[23:46] (@Morgan) I doubt it'll be long... he's got appointments to keep elsewhere
[23:47] (Molly) U: **he goes to sit on the straw pallet that serves as a bed*
[23:47] (Molly) K: **he does likewise, not making conversation*
[23:48] * @Morgan turns, heading for the door
[23:48] (@Morgan) good day gentlemen, I've no doubt we'll meet again soon
[23:48] (Molly) *they nod in acknowledgment*
[23:49] * @Morgan hdazs out
[21:22] (Molly) **Accompanied by Bauer and Lief, Morgan heads back up the stairs to the main part of the house. In the hall, he nearly bumps in to the captivating woman that is his wife as she leaves the victims bedside. Ghalen watches her from a distance, and even the conversation between L&B stops. She looks at him with a gentle smile that somehow radiates warmth and comfort
[21:22] (Molly) Tea, liebes herz?
[21:23] (@Morgan) Coffee, please
[21:25] * Molly walks in to the parlour, a model of dignity and grace. Ghalen pours for her, then the others who are busying themselves finding her the most comfortable seat.
[21:27] * Molly smiles at Morgan. It's light, civilised, but he perceives a little discomfort at being so fussed over. It again pokes at the place in his heart that makes him her champion, her guardian
[21:27] * @Morgan finds a seat and moves it to her, placing it slightly heavier than needed, before fetching a chair for himself
[21:31] * Molly sits. The others look at Morgan as if he's stolen their thunder. Ghalen passes Molly the tea, fingers touching hers. He looks surprised, then full of energy, grinning as he moves to a seat. He damn near sprawls in the chair, a confidence he had not had until now. Molly frowns almost imperceptibly, looking at her hand
[21:31] (Molly) B: what will you do about it, my Lord?
[21:32] * @Morgan speaks quietly
[21:32] (@Morgan) At this point, I'm open to suggestions... I'd like to know what the baronness would've had done
[21:33] (Molly) L: had me hang them I reckon.
[21:34] (@Morgan) They seemed to think there'd be no punishment at all
[21:36] (Molly) L: she was very fickle. Recently she'd stopped punishing heavily, but for the first part she was rather brutal
[21:38] (Molly) B: And Innesbruck is much much worse.
[21:41] * Molly watches them all in turn, quietly sipping her tea. It's difficult to look away when she makes eye contact
[21:41] (@Morgan) So then... suggestions?
[21:44] (Molly) L: hanging, beheading?
[21:45] (Molly) B: banishment on pain of death?
[21:45] (@Morgan) I did that to someone last month
[21:48] (Molly) G: **he looks at Morgan** the way I see it, you need to decide first who is at fault, and to what degree **he pauses, suddenly looking shy once more* but that's just a suggestion, my Lord
[21:48] * Molly watches him, then Morgan, again frowning a little
[21:49] * @Morgan grins at the lad
[21:49] (@Morgan) I take it you have an opinion formed on that?
[21:50] (Molly) **he just blushes, drinking his coffee** not really, my Lord
[21:51] (Molly) B: they're all guilty to some degree
[21:51] (@Morgan) not really? Come now, dont be shy
[21:53] (Molly) G: **he looks briefly at Molly who smiles encouragingly* Ulath did the stabbing, probably with an intent to murder or at least seriously injure. Karl beat him and didn't prevent the stabbing. The victim cheated and stole the cards.
[21:54] * Molly smiles warmly at him. He turns even redder
[21:55] (Molly) *B&L look a little unimpressed at the youth's receipt of her attention*
[21:57] (Molly) L: only if you believe they're telling the truth? **he looks at Morgan*
[21:57] (@Morgan) I'm inclined to believe them, this time round
[21:58] (Molly) B: so three different punishments?
[21:59] (@Morgan) I think the victim has had his punishment, dont you? It certainly wasn't wise of him to play them at what he perceived was their game, or taking the cards, but I dont think that warrants being stabbed
[22:00] * Molly watches Morgan with a slow, thoughtful nod
[22:02] (Molly) I would perhaps insist that he remains here a few weeks as a detention for his part, though it would primarily be to ensure he was entirely healed. **he can feel, deep in his bones that she's lying, and it fascinates him to know why*
[22:03] * @Morgan nods slightly
[22:03] (Molly) L: And the others? Karl seems a little dim-witted. Or he did, until he started speaking properly
[22:04] (Molly) **when not directly talking to Morgan, the three men watch her, enraptured with every expression
[22:06] (Molly) B: the victim seems reasonably well, surely he couldn't recover so quickly if they'd tried to kill him?
[22:07] (@Morgan) Avalonian medicine wasn't hindered as our own was by our trying to tear ourselves apart
[22:07] * Molly nods
[22:08] (Molly) We are much more adept I'm afraid
[22:08] (Molly) **they all nod**
[22:08] * @Morgan sips his coffee
[22:09] (Molly) B: without you, he would have died? **he looks awed*
[22:09] * Molly blushes. Even in her state of discomfort it is becoming, endearing
[22:10] (Molly) Most likely, yes.
[22:11] * Molly looks to Morgan. She speaks quitely
[22:12] (Molly) I would go as far as to say murder was the crime committed by Ulath, and aiding in a murder for his accomplice
[22:13] (@Morgan) I dont think you can claim murder if the victim isn't actually deaed
[22:15] * Molly frowns
[22:15] (Molly) Perhaps not.
[22:18] * Molly swirls the liquid in her cup. He hasnt seen her do it since their time in cafe kafee in Freiburg. He finds his mind straying to those memories, the anxious exhilaration of their fledgling relationship. 
[22:19] * @Morgan frowns, trying to concentrate
[22:19] (Molly) L: flogging?
[22:20] (Molly) *he manages to do so*
[22:22] (@Morgan) you think thats enough?
[22:22] (Molly) L: I'm just giving you options
[22:24] * @Morgan sips his coffee
[22:25] * Molly chews her lower lip thoughtfully. It makes him recall the feel of running his tongue over the seam of.her lips. 
[22:26] (Molly) What would you achieve by ending their lives?
[22:27] (Molly) **the three others watch her with intense gazes, thoughts running similar to Morgans own
[22:27] (@Morgan) no cost of feeding them as prisoners, but thats about it
[22:28] * Molly smiles mischievously, playing devils advocate
[22:29] (Molly) It deters similar crimes, it establishes you as a new, tougher authority here, they are no longer a danger to others
[22:29] (Molly) **the men all nod, as if these are perfectly valid reasons
[22:30] (@Morgan) I've already got a reputation thats widely known, along with the rumours from what I had everyone doing in Sudlachenburg
[22:31] * Molly grins at him brightly. It makes him feel somehow elated.
[22:31] (Molly) "what you had everyone doing in Sudlachenburg"... Interesting
[22:33] (Molly) *the others watch the couple, expressions from see of her and envy of him*
[22:34] * Molly sips her tea, watching him over the rim of her cup, oblivious to the attention of the rest
[22:34] (@Morgan) Do you know what the Montaigne do with prisoners of this sort of crime?
[22:35] * Molly 's eyes widen, suddenly turning bright red at her thoughts
[22:35] (Molly) N-no... What do they do?
[22:36] (@Morgan) They enlist them in the foreign legion
[22:36] * Molly nods
[22:37] (Molly) Early starts, hard work, misery in the rain and heat, kept far from home...?
[22:37] * @Morgan nods slowly
[22:38] * Molly smiles, encouragingly
[22:38] (Molly) You have an idea, my love?
[22:38] (Molly) *L,B&G all frown at the endearment
[22:39] (@Morgan) well... Kai is always looking for men, and he runs his outfit almost as tightly as any arm of the military
[22:40] * Molly nods thoughtfully
[22:40] (Molly) I can see the merits...
[22:41] (@Morgan) and it establishes that I'm not a walkover, while relieving the estate of their financial burden
[22:42] (Molly) However, that means placing trust that he will keep them in line, not allow them to continue and make a bad outcome from your good nature
[22:43] (@Morgan) Kai? Allow his men to run amock? Only Kurt gets away with that, and only to an extent
[22:43] * Molly nods
[22:44] (Molly) It is entirely your decision, liebes herz
[22:44] (@Morgan) besides, it'd be bad for his reputation if they get out of hand
[22:44] * Molly nods again
[22:47] (Molly) Might I suggest an alternate avenue?
[22:47] (@Morgan) of course
[22:47] * Molly smiles
[22:49] (Molly) Innesbruck is poor. They're struggling to bring in the harvest with so many lost in the war. These men are obviously strong. Farm work can be utter misery, especially if your food and shelter are dependant on your work. 
[22:50] * Molly 's eyes harden. 
[22:50] (Molly) And if they desert or commit any crimes, shoot them.
[22:51] (@Morgan) we'd need to make sure they're aware of my reputation if we do that
[22:51] (Molly) L: break some fingers?
[22:52] * @Morgan shakes his head
[22:52] (@Morgan) I dont do object lessons
[22:52] * Molly smiles slightly. 
[22:53] (Molly) It was just a suggestion
[22:57] (Molly) Your plan is good
[22:57] * Molly smiles warmly
[22:58] * @Morgan sips his coffee, obviously thinking
[22:59] (Molly) L: Are we definitely keeping the victim detained here? **he watches Morgan*
[23:00] (@Morgan) For now, lets make sure he recovers fully... it might be a good use of the time to make sure he's aware that, despite being incorrect, what he thought he was doing was flat out stupid
[23:01] * Molly nods, looking pleased
[23:02] (Molly) I think that is a very good plan **again, he feels a hint of deception*
[23:02] * @Morgan looks at Bauer
[23:02] (@Morgan) is there an office with a desk here anywhere?
[23:03] (Molly) B: **he nods, and looks at Lief* I think the veisgraf wants your office
[23:04] (Molly) L: *watching Molly, he nods absently* go ahead
[23:04] (@Morgan) where is it?
[23:05] (Molly) L: next door to the left
[23:05] * @Morgan nods briefly
[23:06] (@Morgan) very well, gentlemen, if you'll excuse us, I wish to speak with my wife for a moment, then if you'd bring the gentlemen to the office in, say, five minutes... tell them the new steward will see them
[23:09] (Molly) *they all nod. Molly rises, to which they all stand, as if high born gentlemen. Molly follows him regally into the small office with its large desk, similar to the one she bought him as a wedding present. She runs a hand over its surface like a caress, sending his mind back to their times alone in her study on the rose
[23:10] (@Morgan) I'd like to know, blossom... what you're not telling me
[23:12] * Molly watches him as she hops up on to the edge of the desk. She smiles playfully, and it draws him in, compelling him, mesmerising him
[23:12] (Molly) Oh dear, am I in trouble, liebes herz?
[23:13] * @Morgan sets his jaw momentarily
[23:13] (@Morgan) You're keeping something from me... something to do with the victim...
[23:13] * Molly smiles more, tilting her head to one side
[23:14] (Molly) Correct
[23:14] (@Morgan) and that is...
[23:15] (Molly) I might have a plan for him
[23:15] (@Morgan) go on
[23:15] * Molly leans back a little, swinging her legs
[23:16] (Molly) **theres something childlike and charming about it. It's hard to be frustrated with her, even if he wants to
[23:16] (Molly) He could be useful
[23:16] * @Morgan glowers
[23:16] (@Morgan) Molly...
[23:17] * Molly 's nose wrinkles
[23:17] (Molly) I really prefer Blossom, you know
[23:18] (@Morgan) I really prefer the truth
[23:18] * Molly mock-sighs
[23:20] (Molly) He is an experienced sailor who has commanded a ship. He owes me his life. You need reliable crew for the Rose, he needs a purpose in life
[23:20] (@Morgan) You're suggesting I put a vaticine sailor on the Rose?
[23:22] * Molly looks surprised
[23:22] (Molly) You're suggesting that because he's Vaticine he isn't good enough?
[23:23] (@Morgan) Nothing of the sort, I just wanted to be clear *he grins*. If anything, he's exactly what I need... if he's of the standard of the Iron Sky, you'd be hard pushed to find better
[23:24] * Molly pouts playfully
[23:25] (Molly) For a moment there I was concerned you might not be quite the man I thought you were
[23:25] (@Morgan) I dont like it when you keep things from me... my concern with him is he's not as clever as he thinks he is
[23:29] (Molly) Hence why I wanted to keep him here long enough to find out whether he was a possible liability *she grins* but you're too eager to have me reveal myself...*she raises an eyebrow with a little smile, causing the world to seem irrelevant in comparison*
[23:29] * @Morgan frowns
[23:29] (@Morgan) good plan
[23:30] (Molly) Why the desk?
[23:30] (@Morgan) looks more official
[23:32] (Molly) For your role as steward, or to prevent them thinking you drew me here to enact your role as husband? *she laughs, low, sultry*
[23:32] (@Morgan) which remidns me... I'm not entirely happy with their... open adoration
[23:32] (Molly) No?
[23:33] (@Morgan) they seem a little too posessive for my liking
[23:33] * Molly smiles
[23:34] (Molly) If I knew how to stop it, I would... Mostly
[23:34] * @Morgan nods
[23:34] (@Morgan) mostly
[23:34] * Molly nods
[23:35] (Molly) I'm rather enjoying your open adoration
[23:37] (@Morgan) Well, I'm sure we can arrange more of that later
[23:38] (Molly) There is still much to be done today
[23:38] (@Morgan) such as?
[23:40] (Molly) There's something I must do at the house, a lock to pick and documents to hunt, taking a tour of Koln and learning how Bauer's job works. Why, we still haven't read our post!
[23:41] * @Morgan nods
[23:41] (@Morgan) we'll deal with this and then get started on the rest of it
[23:41] * Molly watches him with a sidelong gaze
[23:42] (@Morgan) incidentally... I'd rather keep the potential plan to ourselves... I dont want that man on his best behaviour, I want to see what he's normally like
[23:45] (Molly) *she nods* that was what I was trying to do! *shen pauses a moment*And I need to get out of this marked dress. If you start helping me whilst we ride back, it shouldnt take above an hour to have me presentable after we get there **her lips curve to an innocent smile that he knows is anything but*
[23:45] * @Morgan chuckles
[23:45] (@Morgan) you're a bad influence on me
[23:47] (Molly) Am I? You appear a paragon of virtue much of the time *she holds out a hand to him*
[23:47] * @Morgan takes it gingerly
[23:48] * Molly sees his reaction, immediately letting go
[23:48] (Molly) I'm sorry
[23:48] (@Morgan) later, we'll explore this... newness, safely in private
[23:50] * Molly nods. She gets down from the desk, moving to the window quietly
[23:51] * @Morgan sits down behind the desk
[23:52] (Molly) **theres a knock at the door
[23:53] (@Morgan) come...
[23:54] (Molly) G: **he enters. He looks at Morgan, Molly, then back again with a frown.* ttheyll be just a moment, my lord.
[23:54] (@Morgan) Thank you
[23:56] (Molly) G: **he stands off to one side, watching her with concern. The prisoners, escorted by L&B appear. Everyone settles, waiting on him
[23:57] * @Morgan looks at the two prisoners
[23:57] (@Morgan) gentlemen
[23:58] (Molly) **they watch him
[23:58] (@Morgan) As I'm sure you've figured out, I'm the steward. I have a question that I need answering... Are you familiar with the reputation of the Veisgraf von Sudlachenburg?
[00:01] (Molly) U: he's violent but didn't go mad and end up in an asylum after his wife and child were killed? ** the room temperature seems to drop. He can feel Molly change position behind him*
[00:02] * @Morgan nods slowly
[00:02] (@Morgan) he shot an Avalonian high born as he picked a lock... do you know why?
[00:05] (Molly) K: no, why?
[00:05] (@Morgan) because he said "anyone caught picking a lock will be shot"... see the correlation?
[00:07] (Molly) **they nod
[00:08] (@Morgan) Good... to say that what he says he'll do, he does is accurate... bearing that in mind, I'd like to introduce myself formally... I'm Lieutenant Morgan Koertig, Veisgraf of Sudlachenburg
[00:11] (Molly) *they both pale, looking at each other. It's as if it finally dawns on them quite how bad things are
[00:11] * @Morgan leans forward, pointing a finger at Ulath
[00:12] (@Morgan) _You_ owe my family an apology for what you called my cousin
[00:13] (Molly) U: I sincerely apologise, my Lord
[00:14] (@Morgan) I've decided upon your punishments... You will both be taken to Innesbruck where they are shortly to harvest the crops... you will help work the land for so long as I see fit, and count yourself as lucky I dont have you hanged
[00:17] (Molly) U: **he looks about to object, but looks at Morgan and thinks better of it. They both answer* yes, my Lord
[00:18] (@Morgan) Your lodgings and your food will be dependant on your working hard and honestly
[00:19] (Molly) U&K yes, my Lord
[00:20] (@Morgan) Any criminal activity, or if you try to run, and this is the really important thing to remember... I'll hunt you down and kill you myself
[00:20] (Molly) *they nod*
[00:21] (@Morgan) You'll be taken back to the cells now until transport is arranged
[00:22] (Molly) U: yes, my Lord
[00:22] * @Morgan dismisses them with a nod, picking up his cup
[00:24] (Molly) L&B remove them. Ghalen watches Molly as if he doesn't know whether to stay and protect her or go
[00:24] * @Morgan watches Ghalen
[00:24] (@Morgan) you have something to add?
[00:25] (Molly) G: no, my Lord. 
[00:25] * @Morgan motions toward the door
[00:27] (Molly) Saddle the horse we rode down on, Ghalen, I need to get back to the house *her tone is cool, almost dismissive. He leaves*