[20:56] (@Morgan) <@Morgan> Are you so hell bent on having some sort of succession that her treatment is of lesser import? Not, I shall add, a goading or accusation, merely a question [20:56] (@Morgan) I wouldn't want her treated less than a noble wife ought to be [20:56] (@Morgan) <@Morgan> You realise thats going to be a rather large task now... [20:56] (@Morgan) *he nods* it will be impossible now [20:56] (@Morgan) * @Morgan watches him impassively for a few moments [20:56] (@Morgan) <@Morgan> How rigid is your pride? [20:56] (@Morgan) *he smiles slightly* very. But I don't have time for pride [20:56] (@Morgan) <@Morgan> Then I may be in a position to... assist you with your problem [20:58] * Mau folds his arms almost defensively [20:58] (Mau) How? [20:59] * @Morgan sighs [21:00] (@Morgan) You're not going to like it... I have a brother who is in need of some responsibility [21:01] * Mau wrinkles his nose in disgust [21:01] (Mau) That wastrel! [21:02] (@Morgan) Lets be pragmatic here... you want your daughter to marry someone of noble birth but given the situation we both know that isn't likely [21:05] * Mau nods slowly [21:05] (Mau) But you beat him. [21:06] (@Morgan) and? [21:06] * Mau looks at him [21:07] (Mau) Would you marry your daughter to a man whose brother beat him like that? [21:08] (@Morgan) Thats like asking if I'd marry a daughter to a man who lost a fight or said the wrong thing at the wrong moment [21:11] * Mau sighs [21:11] (Mau) I don't really have any choice, do I? [21:12] (@Morgan) Of course you do... you could be stubborn and have your lands leave your family and annexed by whomever got here first... or you could be sensible about it [21:13] (Mau) But Edward is a notorious whoremonger and drinker [21:13] (@Morgan) He'll treat her well [21:15] (Mau) And he'll be more discrete? [21:15] * @Morgan nods [21:15] (@Morgan) absolutelyu [21:16] * Mau sighs heavily [21:17] (Mau) I hoped for better for her [21:18] (@Morgan) well... her behaviour isn't exactly pristine... [21:19] (Mau) No, I am aware of that [21:21] * Mau looks frustrated [21:21] (Mau) Bloody Eldreich! [21:22] (@Morgan) quite [21:23] (Mau) I hope he rots in hell. [21:24] * @Morgan shrugs [21:24] (@Morgan) I cant say I care enough to think about it [21:25] (Mau) He didn't ruin your daughter *Maubourg scowls* [21:25] (@Morgan) No, he just planned to take everything from my family... [21:26] * Mau nods quietly for a few seconds [21:27] (Mau) I suppose this is the closest to revenge we can get. My daughter still makes a noble match, your family expand your territory. [21:28] (@Morgan) True [21:30] * Mau sighs [21:31] (Mau) I can not say I _like_ it, but he's probably her only chance [21:32] (@Morgan) Look at it this way... she'll be treated as a lady should be, they'll have their own agreement with discretion a must, and, lets be honest here, Koertigs are good at running lands, which'll benefit your grandchildren... [21:35] * Mau nods [21:35] (Mau) And Adalbrecht will agree to this! [21:35] (Mau) ?* [21:36] (@Morgan) I believe so... as you say, expands his lands, calms Edward down, reduces political issues between here and there... [21:38] * Mau nods [21:39] (@Morgan) and I can be very persuasive [21:39] (Mau) Yes, I'd noticed [21:41] * Mau looks to Morgan [21:41] (Mau) Why _did_ you hit him? [21:43] * @Morgan watches him [21:43] (@Morgan) he said something I took exception to at the wrong moment [21:45] * Mau smiles slightly [21:46] (Mau) Warning understood. [21:46] (@Morgan) There won't be another... [21:48] * Mau nods briefly [21:49] (Mau) Are you staying nearby? [21:50] (@Morgan) probably, I'm not particularly keen on continuing our journey overnight... though, I think perhaps it would be wise to discuss the implications of our discussion with your wife and daughter... [21:54] * Mau nods. He gets up and rings a bell, immediately summoming all three women back. The Maubourgs sit on the couch opposite the head of their family, looking worried. Molly stands off to the side quietly [21:54] (Mau) Grafin: *she looks to Morgan* My husband has recovered? [21:56] (@Morgan) Some, though he mustn't become agitated... [21:57] (Mau) **they look wary of him. He looks solemn* [21:59] (Mau) I've made a decision. To secure your future is important Teresa, as is keeping your shame hidden from the nobility of Eisen **she begins to cry, and her mother looks shocked* [22:00] (Mau) *molly watches Morgan placidly* [22:00] (Mau) I've decided that you will marry Edward Koertig at the earliest opportunity. [22:01] (Mau) **the two women are stunned into silence until the younger bursts into hysterical sobbing* Please father, not Edward! [22:02] * Mau looks to Morgan [22:02] (Mau) Excuse my daughter, she's forgotten her manners as well as her virtue. [22:02] (Mau) **the crying continues* [22:09] (@Morgan) SHe's had a couple of shocks this evening, I think its to be expected [22:12] (Mau) **she starts wailing and sobbing* But he's... He's... Not blonde! [22:13] (Mau) **Molly picks the moment to look in her handbag to avoid laughing at the absurdity.* [22:13] * Mau looks sternly at his daughter [22:15] (Mau) Silence. You will marry Edward or be disowned. That is how it will be. *he sags heavily back, waving a hand around* Leave me, I'm fatigued. [22:16] (Mau) **The women look shocked, but comply. Molly looks to Morgan a moment before following them. The crying and whining continues in the hallway.* [22:16] * Mau looks to Morgan [22:17] (Mau) Anything else? [22:17] * @Morgan shrugs [22:17] (@Morgan) I dont think so [22:19] (Mau) Good. We'll see you at the wedding. *he speaks as if dismissing Morgan* [22:20] (@Morgan) If we're back by then... *he looks him over* I'll be in touch [22:20] * @Morgan walks through the doorway [22:23] * Mau doesn't speak. Outside and further down the hall, the women are congregated, Molly the only one not crying. They all look to Morgan [22:26] * Molly smiles gently at him, the only one who looks pleased to see him [22:27] (Molly) Can I do anything to aid you, liebling? [22:27] * @Morgan shrugs [22:27] (@Morgan) I dont believe any aid is needed... perhaps we'd best find lodgings and a meal for the night [22:29] * Molly nods. The Grafin is clearly about to offer when Molly says [22:30] (Molly) I wrote to the inn right beside the dock in Baden, the one with the best views of the river, they're expecting us [22:32] (Molly) **Maubourg's wife looks vaguely put out, but smiles politely as she shows them out [20:21] (Molly) **quietly mulling things over, they arrive in the riverside town of Baden, from where they're due to sail the 24 hours to Freiburg. It is clean and well-kept. [20:23] * Molly looks around, catching a glimpse of the castle on the hill above the town [20:23] (Molly) Oh, liebes herz, isn't that beautiful! [20:24] * @Morgan shrugs [20:24] (@Morgan) a little grandiose... I prefer something a little less flashy, like a house built by a lake, for example... [20:25] * Molly smiles warmly at him [20:26] (Molly) My love, the difference is purely elevation [20:28] (Molly) **around them people go about their business, disinterested in the two riders and their black horses [20:28] (@Morgan) true enough I suppose [20:29] (Molly) Have you ever used your position to gain hospitality in other noble houses? [20:29] ** New query from Morgan (Available on submenu 'Windows') [20:32] (@Morgan) I haven't, no, but its quite normal... [20:34] * Molly nods slowly, then smiles [20:35] (Molly) Sometimes I am still a little...overwhelmed and awed by nobility [20:36] (@Morgan) Oh? They're nothing special [20:38] * Molly looks to him [20:39] (Molly) I meant more in terms of the workings and customs of... [20:39] * @Morgan shrugs [20:40] (@Morgan) I'm not entirely convinced its anything more than to keep the status quo [20:40] ** New query from Morgan (Available on submenu 'Windows') [20:40] (Molly) We best take our lodgings at the inn I think [20:41] * @Morgan nods [20:41] (@Morgan) I suppose so [20:44] * Molly asks for directions and soon they're settled in a room with a view over the river, their evening meal passed. Molly sits in the window seat, breeze entering the room through the window she's opened for a better view [20:45] (Molly) That was rather quick thinking, liebes herz... [20:46] * @Morgan shrugs [20:47] (@Morgan) it seemed like a good opportunity [20:48] (Molly) I would never have thought of it *she smiles gently before returning her gaze to the dock* [20:48] (@Morgan) I don't particularly like it, if I'm honest [20:50] * Molly looks surprised. She watches him with concern [20:50] (Molly) Why, liebling? [20:51] (@Morgan) it puts a level of power in Edwards hands and, frankly, I wanted to kill Maubourg [20:52] * Molly nods slightly [20:52] (Molly) It is not too late [20:53] (@Morgan) I can hardly claim to be an advocate for peace if I actively seek violence... not when a peaceful solution has been found [20:53] * Molly nods [20:54] (Molly) It is the most prudent option... [20:55] * @Morgan nods [20:58] (Molly) For the good of Sudlachenburg, it must be this way [20:58] * @Morgan nods [20:58] (@Morgan) you're right, of course... I'll just have to make sure Edward toes the line [21:00] (Molly) We do not have to like it, we just have to do it? [21:00] * @Morgan nods [21:00] (@Morgan) exactly [21:01] * Molly nods [21:02] (Molly) Besides, would you wish to be a Graf if it meant having a wife and mother-in-law such as they? *she tries not to smirk* [21:03] (@Morgan) very true [21:04] (Molly) And to have your freedom so forcibly curtailed by a hasty marriage? [21:06] * Molly smirks this time [21:06] * @Morgan chuckles [21:06] (Molly) Will he be deeply unhappy, do you think? [21:07] (@Morgan) hopefully. [21:07] * Molly giggles [21:07] (Molly) Ah liebes herz, you do delight me! [21:09] * Molly holds out her hand to him [21:10] * @Morgan takes it gently [21:11] * Molly smiles [21:11] (Molly) Will you sit with me? The view is lovely [21:12] * @Morgan sits beside her [21:13] (Molly) Will your father stand by you? [21:14] (@Morgan) I'm not entirely sure... though hed be a fool not to see the benefits of it [21:15] (Molly) He would not wish Edward to stay in die Dauerhaftigkeit? [21:16] (@Morgan) Possibly, but he'll have to look to the future [21:16] * Molly nods [21:17] (Molly) It is a good match for us [21:17] * @Morgan nods [21:18] (@Morgan) as much as it wrankles me, it makes the most sense [21:18] * Molly nods [21:20] (Molly) If it cheers you, Maubourg's daily tincture is unpleasant but not harmful... [21:21] * Molly smiles at him [21:22] * @Morgan nods slowly [21:22] (@Morgan) that cheers me some [21:22] * Molly nods [21:23] (Molly) I doubt you'll ever see him out of his estate again... Travelling could be somewhat embarrassing for a gentleman with his affliction [21:24] (@Morgan) isn't that a terrible shame [21:24] (Molly) Simply awful. [21:24] (Molly) *she grins* [21:27] (Molly) Will you write to him? [21:28] (@Morgan) Maubourg? [21:28] * Molly laughs [21:29] (Molly) "My condolences upon your condition..."? No, liebes herz, your father [21:30] (@Morgan) That makes a lot more sense... Yes, I suppose I better had [21:31] (Molly) It'll give him sometime to cool down perhaps [21:34] (@Morgan) You think he'll go berserk? [21:34] * Molly looks thoughtful [21:35] (Molly) Berserk? No. But I think he will be a little displeased that he did not think of it himself [21:36] (@Morgan) entirely possible I suppose [21:36] * Molly squeezes his hand, meeting his gaze [21:37] (Molly) Lets not worry about him tonight... [20:18] (Molly) With Xanthe safely tied at the entrance of the Torrington Estate, Morgan stalks up the hill toward the house. His anger and frustration boil, not just at the delay caused by Maubourg's scheming and threatened annexation, or his father's descent into deep depression whilst Sudlachenburg falls to pieces. [20:23] (Molly) Those things alone have weighed on him day and night almost since he walked out of the monestary in a jealous rage. What angers him more is the fact that she never once wrote to him, even though he wrote to her so frequently. And yet he's still here, always doing the right thing even when it costs him dearly and hurts him deeply. A ship chartered at the last moment to get him here before the time she marries Jaeger cost him a small fortune. [20:25] (Molly) Alongside his passage, he learnt that The Rose was never seen in Freiburg, and there are rumours it is being stripped down for use as a War Ship. [20:27] (Molly) The day is warm even though it is February, and he hears bells in the distance. He sees no staff on his walk to the house [20:27] (Molly) ((Done)) [20:30] ** New query from Morgan (Available on submenu 'Windows') [20:31] * @Morgan frowns hard, walking around the outside of the house [20:33] (Molly) **one of Kai's men stands guard at the door of the great hall. He draws himself to his full five foot eight, glaring at Morgan [20:35] (Molly) What do you want? [20:35] (@Morgan) Entry. [20:35] (Molly) *he sneers* got an invite? [20:36] * @Morgan steps closer [20:36] (@Morgan) You'll allow me to pass, one Eisen son to another. [20:37] (Molly) *he laughs* No, I won't [20:37] * @Morgan shrugs, driving his knee into the mans groin hard [20:38] (Molly) *he collapses in a heap* [20:39] * @Morgan steps over him, pushing the door open [20:46] (Molly) *What he sees is somewhat of a surprise. The atmosphere immediately chills at the intrusion. The odd collection of guests is perplexing, Jaeger (looking alive, but taller and broader, somehow more handsome) and Rebecca beside him in handcuffs. Edward and Mina cuddled close. Inigo and Evie, Siobahn and Charles. But more surprising is Maubourg officiating with Kai as the groom. Molly is the only one not to turn to watch him. None look pleased to see him [20:48] * @Morgan looks around slowly, scowling [20:51] (Molly) *Kai steps towards Morgan. There's something so smug, so proud in his expression and attitude that it is almost a physical thing* Ah, Morgan, this iz an unexpected surprise, ja? [20:52] (@Morgan) Something like that... [20:54] (Molly) *he nods, puffing out his chest. He's very expensively dressed. Behind him, Molly turns, somewhat shocked to see Morgan. He feels a wealth of confused but intense emotions.* [20:56] (Molly) K: Vell, you might az vell stay now you're here. Take a seat. *he turns his back on Morgan, going to stand beside Molly* [20:56] * @Morgan points at Molly [20:57] (@Morgan) you... were meant to be marrying _him_ * he points at Jaeger* [21:02] * Molly looks to him. The sparkle has gone from her eyes completely. She looks tired and somewhat cowed. The most shocking part of her appearance is the noticeable swell of her belly. Having watched Dietlinde's body change, he knows she is too far along for the child to be Kai's. As Molly is about to answer, Kai cups her chin, using his thumb to wipe her tears, though he shoots Morgan a possessive and gloating look* [21:05] (Molly) [21:02] * Molly looks to him. The sparkle has gone from her eyes completely. She looks tired and somewhat cowed. The most shocking part of her appearance is the noticeable swell of her belly. Having watched Dietlinde's body change, he knows she is too far along for the child to be Kai's. As Molly is about to answer, Kai cups her chin, using his thumb to wipe her tears, though he shoots Morgan a possessive and gloating look* [21:07] (Molly) K: All iz fair in love und var, ja? [21:08] (@Morgan) When you've been burned to death, you can fairly hold that belief... I was not, however, talking to you [[21:14] (MollyK) *kai uses his grasp on her chin to turn her face to his. She complies, her face completely expressionless. Maubourg glares at Morgan. The others watch quietly* You vish to speak to him, Schatzen? [21:16] * @Morgan lowers his head slightly, scowling hard [21:20] * MollyK nods slightly, unable to move much in his grip. She blinks a moment just before he makes a big show of kissing her, keeping his eyes on Morgan. A moment later he pushes her slightly in Morgan's direction* K: Maubourg, go vith zhem az a chaperone, ja? *Mau bows, following Molly. The guests wolf-whistle, and she walks to him, head bowed and eyes stinging* [21:22] * @Morgan waits patiently [21:24] * MollyK doesn't look up as she reaches him, but he feels her thoughts as her heart races at the effect of being near him. She leads the way into the sunshine of the Rose Garden, Maubourg right behind her [21:25] (MollyK) [21:24] * MollyK doesn't look up as she reaches him, but he feels her thoughts as her heart races at the effect of being near him. She leads the way into the sunshine of the Rose Garden, Maubourg right behind her [21:27] * @Morgan follows her out [21:29] (MollyK) Mau: *he puts his hand on Morgan's chest after closing the door. He glares at Morgan* touch her and I'll remove your hand [21:30] * @Morgan speaks quietly [21:30] (@Morgan) touch me again and I'll remove your head [21:32] (MollyK) Mau *he sneers, but steps towards Molly, clearly intent on staying. She sits carefully on the wall, watching both men warily.* [21:32] (@Morgan) back away Maubourg, my words are for her alone [21:36] (MollyK) *he looks about to protest. She sighs sadly "please, Lord Maubourg, please give us a moment. I will assure the Colonel you did your duty." He scowls at Morgan before walking out of ear-shot, still watching. She looks out over the hills silently* [21:37] (@Morgan) what on Theah is going on? [21:39] * MollyK turns to look at him and still that emptiness remains in her gaze, emotions held closely in check* I am getting married. [21:40] (@Morgan) as I recall you were marrying Jaeger and not pregnant... [21:41] (MollyK) *The fire in her eyes rekindles, and for a moment he can't tell if she wishes to hit him or cry in his arms* I was. [21:42] (@Morgan) and now you're not... why? [21:42] * MollyK watches him closely, hand on her belly [21:44] (MollyK) Why are _you_ here? Why now, after all these months? *she looks as if she's about to cry* [21:45] (@Morgan) I didn't want you making a mistake, which seems just as well since you're making an even bigger one now [21:46] * MollyK bites her lower lip. [21:46] (MollyK) I've made many, many mistakes. I trust men who let me down. [21:47] * MollyK looks up [21:47] (MollyK) Besides, what choice did I have? [21:48] (@Morgan) you could've replied to any one of my letters and I'd have come back to help [21:49] * MollyK stands up suddenly, furious. She looks at him directly, moving forward. [21:50] (MollyK) I! _I_ should have replied to one of _your_ letters! [21:51] * @Morgan narrows his eyes [21:51] (MollyK) Mau: *he watches, arms folded* [21:52] ** New query from Morgan (Available on submenu 'Windows') [21:53] (@Morgan) I sent many [21:54] * MollyK 's jaw tightens [21:56] (MollyK) Your walking out of the monestary, and the letter your mother wrote stating that her son wanted no dealings with a woman of my reputation and social stature was all I knew of your regard for my well being! [21:56] * @Morgan frowns, suspicious [21:58] * MollyK squares her shoulders [21:59] (MollyK) I was not going to beg for your friendship or concern. There are some levels even I would never stoop to. [22:00] (@Morgan) I sent many letters and was hurt at the lack of reply... who is the father? [22:02] * MollyK 's eyes dart briefly back to the doors, checking that her future husband stayed inside. Suddenly drawn back by his question, she flushes. He feels her panic and she swallows hard* does-...does it matter? [22:02] (@Morgan) In that it changes nothing in terms of my feelings for you, no. [22:03] * MollyK looks exceptionally pained at his statement. Maubourg takes a few steps towards them [22:05] (MollyK) You have feelings for me? [22:05] (@Morgan) I would've thought my storming out in jealousy more or less confirmed that [22:06] * MollyK looks to the floor but takes a step forward, gently putting a hand over his heart. Maubourg's approach continues [22:08] (MollyK) I saw only your leaving me, and in this state *she waves towards her stomach* my mind was not as rational then as it should have been [22:08] (@Morgan) well, now you know different [22:09] * MollyK nods slightly. Maubourg barges between them. [22:11] (MollyK) Mau: that's rather enough of that. Would your husband approve, little "schatzen"? *he laughs menacingly. Molly bristles at this* [22:11] * @Morgan steps back slightly [22:11] (@Morgan) he is not yet her husband, old man... and I warned you about touching me again.... [22:15] (MollyK) Mau: *he throws a dismissive look at Morgan before looking at Molly* he could still abandon you and your bastard child. After all, he's had the two best bits already, hasn't he? *her shame is written all over her as she bows her head, sitting back on the wall. Tears fall into her lap* [22:16] * @Morgan drives his fist hard into the side of maubourgs face [22:19] (MollyK) **Maubourg's skull makes a sickening crunch as pulverised bone is pushed deep into his brain, blood leaking from every escape route in his mangled skull [22:20] * MollyK looks quite upset, turning very pale [20:51] (@Morgan) I want you to leave with me Molly... [20:53] * Molly shakes her head. He notices now that she's so pale the purple tinge around her right eye and four small bruises down her neck [20:54] (Molly) I can not. He'd find me. Besides, I have nothing to offer you. *her hand immediately goes to the swell of her stomach* [20:55] (@Morgan) I'd protect you from him/// [20:56] * Molly looks genuinely afraid [20:58] (Molly) You don't know him, the lengths he would go to to win or to hurt me [20:58] ** New query from Morgan (Available on submenu 'Windows') [20:59] (@Morgan) You evidently dont remember the lengths I will go to to protect that which I must protect. [21:00] * Molly closes her eyes [21:00] (Molly) He hates you as much as he hates me. More perhaps. [21:01] * @Morgan shrugs [21:03] (@Morgan) I'll take care of it [21:05] (Molly) **the door opens a moment, and Kai shouts out without bothering to look "There cannot be much to zay to a man like ziz, hurry up mein Schatzen!" [21:06] * Molly mutters quietly [21:07] (Molly) Every time you say that word I come closer to driving a blade into your cold black heart... [21:07] * @Morgan watches her [21:07] (@Morgan) come with me [21:12] * Molly watches him, clearly warring over it [21:13] (Molly) There are some things I must tell you first, before you decide you want me [21:13] * @Morgan nods [21:15] * Molly nods. She speaks in the utterly manner of fact tone of one who has given up hope [21:18] (Molly) Firstly, I am in love with you. I've known it since the final evening at the monestary. That is why he hates you, because I turned down his proposal of being his mistress just after you'd left. He blames you for deceiving me into loving you. [21:19] * @Morgan nods [21:20] (@Morgan) alright [21:22] (Molly) Secondly... *she sighs* I am damaged goods. He has used me against my will on several occasions *she pauses, then shrugs* it is what it is. It cannot be undone now. [21:22] * @Morgan nods slowly [21:24] (Molly) Thirdly, he immediately had me sign the Rose to him when he offered to wed me. He's stripped her and plans to use her to restart the war. [21:24] (@Morgan) That can be dealt with [21:25] * Molly watches him closely [21:27] (Molly) And finally, he calls me Schatzen because he knows something about me that he threatens to use against me should he ever come in to conflict with you [21:27] * @Morgan raises an eyebrow [21:27] (@Morgan) oh? [21:29] * Molly lays her hand over her stomach. As she's about to speak, Kai and the assorted guests come out into the Rose Garden [21:31] (Molly) K: *he looks at Morgan with a fake joviality* I zink it iz time you step away from my Vife, ja? [21:31] (@Morgan) Certainly... except... [21:33] (Molly) K: Exzept vat? *he looks around him, pleased by the disdain he sees on the faces. Edward is the only one who looks torn over whether to intervene* [21:34] (@Morgan) You're not yet married... so she isn't your wife... [21:36] (Molly) K: *he laughs* Ve set a date, and very pleasant relations were had - *Morgan feels Molly bristle at this. From the corner of his eye, he spots Kurt in the treeline, rifle pointed towards the group [21:37] (Molly) K: - zherefore in Theus eyez ve are ved! [21:39] * @Morgan smiles faintly [21:39] (@Morgan) but not in mine [21:40] (Molly) K: You are not a god. *he looks to Molly* did you tell him, mein Schatzen, about that child, and how it got inside you? [21:41] * Molly moves closer to him [21:41] (Molly) Please, Colonel, don't do this. [21:47] * @Morgan watches them [21:48] * Molly looks at him pleadingly. He grabs her arm, dragging her to his side. She keeps her eyes to the ground. [21:49] (Molly) K: No, I want you to see his reaction when he discovers what sort of girl you really are. *she looks at Morgan. She mouthes to him "I'm sorry. I love you" [21:53] (@Morgan) I'd not be so rough if I were you... [21:58] (Molly) K: You'll stop caring soon enough. Molly's ch- *she cuts him off* wait! I'll tell him myself! *Kai nods, pulling her into him and kissing her hard. She remains tense even as his hand skates possesively across her behind. Edward walks over, standing beside Morgan, his arms crossed and brow creased with disapproval as he watches Kai [[22:04] * Molly escapes him and comes to Morgan. Eyes filled with tears, she speaks quietly [22:04] (Molly) The baby is yours. [22:05] ** New query from Morgan (Available on submenu 'Windows') [22:05] * @Morgan frowns for a moment, looking surprised [22:06] * Molly sighs [22:08] (Molly) The night in Carleon that I had the nightmare, I was too scared to sleep alone. I came to be near you whilst you slept, and fell asleep. *she watches him anxiously* [22:09] * @Morgan watches her quietly [22:12] (Molly) I woke up to you kissing me deeply, hands caressing me. I was surprised but pleased, so I responded fully. It was only after, when you told me you loved me and called me Schatzen that I realised you had not awoken and it was not me you were making love to. [22:12] (@Morgan) I see [22:13] (Molly) K: *he looks smug. Edward looks shocked, but remains quiet* [22:13] * Molly watches Morgan, studying him [22:13] * @Morgan bows his head, speaking quietly [22:13] (@Morgan) I'm sorry [22:14] (Molly) No, I'm sorry. I just didn't want to hurt you or disappoint you with my behaviour. [22:17] (Molly) K: *he laughs* Zo, you zee vhy ve should be vary of blurring the linez vith zee common girls now, ja Veisgraf? [22:17] (@Morgan) your behaviour? [22:18] * Molly nods, ignoring Kai [22:19] (Molly) I shouldn't have been there, and I should have known you would never instigate such without veing utterly sure I was awake to consent... [22:24] (Molly) E: Blurring the lines... You were about to marry her, _Freiarr_ *he grins smugly at Kai* [22:24] * Molly smiles ruefully [22:25] (Molly) This is why he calls me Schatzen, because he knows, and because it hurts me that the best moment of my life was meant for another. [22:27] (@Morgan) because he's a petty child [22:27] * Molly doesn't look at Kai who is locking gazes with Edward [22:29] (Molly) I was going to travel to Sudlachenburg and tell you once I knew of the baby, but then I received the letter from your mother [22:30] * @Morgan nods [22:30] (@Morgan) I understand [22:30] * Molly looks at the floor [22:30] (Molly) What happens now? Are you leaving? [22:31] (@Morgan) I plan to... just as soon as you've packed enough for a few days [22:31] * Molly looks up ,surprised [22:32] (Molly) Even though I took advantage of you? [22:32] * @Morgan wrinkles his nose [22:32] (@Morgan) a miscommunication of intent, more likely... [22:33] * Molly smiles slightly [22:34] (Molly) Even though I hid what had happened for so long? [[22:34] * @Morgan nods [22:35] * Molly smiles [22:35] (Molly) Alright. [22:36] (Molly) K: Better to marry a pretty and intelligent commoner than that ugly miserable noble girl Morgan is forcing you to marry! [22:37] (Molly) **Morgan starts think something isn't right [22:37] * @Morgan frowns, looking at Kai [22:38] (Molly) E: Morgan is my _brother_, he would never do such a thing. He knows I have offered for Mina [22:41] * @Morgan scowls, becoming confused [22:43] (Molly) K: *he winks at Morgan, making things seem even more surreal* Her father won't have you. Maubourg had no choice. You'll marry who you're told! It is your duty as a Koertig! **Kai slowly turns into Adalbrecht as Morgan remembers being told that after wedding Dietlinde. The impact of Edward's fist in his father's face jolts Morgan awake* [22:43] * @Morgan draws a deep breath [22:45] * Molly comes to his side, glass of water in one hand and his knife in the other. The room is lit by the smallest of fires. Wrapped in a gown, she sits beside him, gently smoothing his hair [22:46] (Molly) I was starting to worry about you, liebling [22:46] (Molly) **even after waking, the dream seems vivid and he remembers every detail* [22:47] (@Morgan) That wasn't in any way pleasant [22:48] * Molly 's brow furrows, urging him to drink [22:49] (Molly) Normally you're very active when you have nightmares... This time you were still as the grave. I even checked your breathing now and then to be sure [22:49] * @Morgan sips the water [22:51] * Molly lays the knife ((is this their crested one?)) in his lap* The usual? [22:51] (@Morgan) ((no, its that plain one with the curved blade)) [22:51] * @Morgan shakes his head [22:51] (Molly) ((Ok)) [22:52] * Molly looks concerned [22:52] (Molly) Do you wish me to make tea? Or is there anything else I can do? [22:53] ** New query from Morgan (Available on submenu 'Windows') [22:53] (@Morgan) Tea would be nice, please [22:54] * Molly goes to the fire, doing so. A few minutes later she returns, sitting beside him as they drink [22:54] (Molly) What happened, liebling? [22:55] * @Morgan sits up, recounting his dream [23:01] * Molly listens to his recounting, face concerned but quite neutral. She doesn't reveal any shock, horror or amusement, waiting patiently [23:03] (Molly) Well, I can see why it was so unpleasant [23:03] * Molly 's neutral look remains [23:05] * @Morgan nods [23:06] (Molly) It's very interesting [23:08] * Molly looks deep in thought, watching him [23:09] * @Morgan waits, sipping the tea [23:09] (Molly) I really don't think I'd have invited Charles or Edward to my wedding [23:10] * Molly smiles at him slightly, hoping to relax him [23:11] (@Morgan) No, I thought it odd [23:11] (Molly) What troubles you so, dear one? [23:12] * @Morgan shrugs [23:14] (Molly) Well, I probably _would_ have made love to you had that happened. I don't think I could have helped myself. *she blushes* [23:15] * @Morgan also blushes [23:16] (Molly) I am sorry if that troubles you [23:16] * @Morgan shakes his head [23:17] (Molly) But I would have woken you and told you immediately what I had done to you [23:17] * @Morgan nods [23:17] (@Morgan) I know blossom [23:18] (Molly) And I definitely would not have allowed a letter to keep you from your child [23:18] * @Morgan nods [23:18] * Molly frowns [23:19] (Molly) _And_ I would rather have starved to death than marry any man who beat and raped me. [23:19] * @Morgan nods [23:20] (@Morgan) I really wanted to kill him [23:20] (Molly) He really would have deserved it. But at least you killed Maubourg [23:21] * Molly smiles [23:21] * @Morgan nods [23:21] (Molly) It is a very odd dream. It does trouble me, I must confess [23:22] (@Morgan) oh? [23:23] (Molly) That I am so deceitful, that Kai is so cruel, that Edward was there at all [23:25] * Molly finishes her tea [23:25] (Molly) Had Edward really proposed to Mina?! [23:26] * @Morgan shrugs [23:26] (@Morgan) who knoiws [23:30] (Molly) Interesting. *Molly rests her head on his shoulder* I think it was probably just a dream, liebling [23:30] * @Morgan nods [23:30] (@Morgan) probably [23:31] * Molly sits up, opening her arms to him [23:35] (Molly) **she encourages him to rest his head on her shoulder, singing to him softly in Avalonian. He drifts off, not because of any magic, but simply the familiarity and safety of being with her* [23:41] ** Morgan has quit (Quit: �I-n-v-i-s-i-o-n� 3.1.3 (May '10))