*instead of explaining his meaning, he simply leans in and kisses her. Once again prevented from making love due to her time of the month, she uses her skilful mouth to please him, not as the previous time, but gently and tenderly. Exhausted from the upheaval of the day, they quickly fall asleep in an embrace as close as in the narrow ferry bed. Edward is not mentioned again. The next morning dawns warm and clear, perfect weather.
They arrive in Bonn in the late afternoon, Molly is somewhat excited as they make their way by carriage to the mysterious inn Jarvie insisted upon. All they know is that the owner is a friend of hers that she met in her archeological work, she has rented this particular suite for them for the whole summer, and that she wrote "whatever you're told about the suite is completely true". They arrive outside the inn on the far outskirts of town at around six o'clock. It is very well kept and looks quite secluded with no visible neighbours. The large front door is painted red with gold detailing, and there is a large gold bell. Having unloaded their trunk, the coachman unties the palominos before taking payment and heading back to town, leaving them on the doorstep.

[20:19] (Molly) **they're let in by a small dark haired woman with unusual almond shaped eyes. Her features are unlike any either of them have seen before. She's very beautiful even in her forties. She shows them into a large lounge painted red and gold with black furniture. It is opulent
[20:21] ** New query from Morgan (Available on submenu 'Windows')
[20:21] (Molly) L: Please, make yourselves at home, my brother will be along presently. I'll fetch refreshments. *she bows a little, hands pressed together*
[20:24] * Molly nods, awed by the room full of various treasures arranged on shelves and tables. The hostess leaves
[20:24] * @Morgan looks around the room
[20:25] (Molly) **there's plates, vases, jars, sculptures everywhere, a huge array of colours and materials. In pride of place is an ornate golden lantern, just like the name of the inn
[20:27] * @Morgan looks the lantern over
[20:28] (Molly) **it is delicate, beautiful. The flame doesn't appear to flicker at all
[20:29] (@Morgan) peculiar...
[20:30] (Molly) *on closer scrutiny, it appears to sparkle slightly*
[20:32] * @Morgan moves around it, examining it from other angles
[20:33] (Molly) *it is completely unfathomable. It gives off some heat but no more than usual. He hears footsteps behind him*
[20:35] (Molly) T: Good evening Veisgraf and Veisgrafin, welcome. 
[20:36] (Molly) *he is similarly unusual in appearance, short and in his early fifties. He wears an elegant silk robe over matching trousers. He bows also*
[20:37] * @Morgan turns, looking the man over
[20:37] (@Morgan) This is an unusual lantern mr...
[20:39] (Molly) T: Tao. It is very unusual, yes. *he smiles* after dinner I'll tell you its history if you'd like?
[20:39] * @Morgan nods briefly
[20:39] (@Morgan) please
[20:41] (Molly) T: Now, Miss Jarvinia has booked the garden suite for you. I'll take you there now so you might prepare for dinner.
[20:42] * @Morgan nods, looking to Molly
[20:43] * Molly follows along quietly as they make their way through the house. They see and hear no-one, though one would expect the middle of summer to be their busiest time.
[20:45] (Molly) **At the far end of the corridor, Tao unlocks a door, leading them into a small ante chamber
[[20:47] (Molly) T: This is as far as my sister and I go during your stay. Anything you ask for we will leave for you in here. I'm not sure how much Miss Jarvinia told you... *he looks at Morgan*
[20:47] ** New query from Morgan (Available on submenu 'Windows')
[20:47] (@Morgan) Precisely nothing....
[20:49] (Molly) *he smiles* I don't take many guests. We pride ourselves on complete privacy and discretion. That is why we don't enter your room.
[20:50] (@Morgan) I see
[20:50] (Molly) T: The garden that your doors open to is set in twelve foot high walls. There are no overlooking windows. It is utterly private, and only accessible from your room.
[20:51] (Molly) *he doesn't look at all phased or embarrassed*
[20:51] * @Morgan nods slowly
[20:51] (@Morgan) I understand
[20:52] (Molly) T:*he bows* I'll leave you to get ready
[20:55] * @Morgan nods
[20:58] (Molly) *he goes. Molly opens the door into their room. It is lovely, all white and gold, even the furniture. Their trunk is the only thing out of place. Through the large Montaigne-style doors they can see the very large garden in the dusky light, sparkles as the Sun's last rays hit the stream that runs horizontally through it
[20:59] (@Morgan) Well this is...
[20:59] * Molly watches him as she removes her cloak
[20:59] (Molly) Lavish?
[21:00] * @Morgan nods slowly
[21:00] (@Morgan) thats fairly apt, yes
[21:00] * Molly smiles
[21:01] (Molly) How on Theah does your cousin know of a suite like this?
[21:01] (@Morgan) Would you like an honest answer?
[21:02] * Molly giggles
[21:02] (Molly) Always
[21:02] (@Morgan) I dare say the same way she is acquainted with one Kurt Cristoban
[21:02] * Molly laughs
[21:02] (Molly) How displeased your father would be!
[21:03] * @Morgan nods
[21:03] (@Morgan) absolutely
[21:04] * Molly starts unpacking
[21:05] (Molly) I think there is no denying what this room, and even the garden, is intended for!
[21:05] * @Morgan nods
[21:06] (@Morgan) I'm inclined to agree... I feel I should have stern words with my cousin about it, but I suspect she'll only laugh at me for being so provincial
[21:06] * Molly smiles gently
[21:06] (Molly) It is alright, liebes herz, we need not do anything about it
[21:10] (@Morgan) No, I suppose not
[21:12] * Molly comes to him, taking his hands
[21:12] (Molly) I'm certain she would not have meant to upset or offend you
[21:13] (@Morgan) No, I know...
[21:13] * @Morgan smiles slightly
[21:14] (Molly) I am content just to have a few days to ourselves
[21:17] * Molly smiles
[21:18] (@Morgan) it'll certainly make a change
[21:19] (Molly) You'll be able to do some sketching, I can do some painting and sewing, we can read together, we can drink as much as we like, sleep as late as we like... It'll be wonderful
[21:20] (@Morgan) drink as muych as we like?
[21:21] (Molly) If I remember correctly we once agreed we'd get drunk together if there was ever a suitable time and place...
[21:21] (@Morgan) You have a worryingly impressive memory blossom
[21:22] * Molly smiles
[21:22] (Molly) I know
[21:24] * Molly quickly washes and redresses
[21:25] (Molly) Did you wish to see the garden?
[21:25] * @Morgan nods
[21:25] (@Morgan) why not
[21:29] * Molly wanders into the warm night air, the garden is lovely and tranquil, the stream babbling softly, spanned by three small bridges for paths that lead further into the tree filled garden. There are many vibrant flowers and plants he could sketch, and lots of unusual ornaments
[21:30] * @Morgan looks at the trees for a moment
[21:30] (Molly) ** they don't look at all threatening**
[21:32] (@Morgan) I could see it being very relaxing here...
[21:32] * Molly looks up at the building. There are no windows whatsoever to break up the solid brickface
[21:32] (Molly) Definitely. I think we might spend many hours out here in the sunshine
[21:33] * @Morgan nods
[21:33] (@Morgan) I think so
[21:34] * Molly smiles
[21:35] (Molly) I love you, liebes herz
[21:35] (@Morgan) and I you, blossom
[21:36] (Molly) Now let us eat, I am famished!
[21:36] * @Morgan nods, smiling
[21:36] * Molly grins, going back inside

[22:46] (@Morgan) did you happen to see the lantern on the way in?
[22:48] * Molly shakes her head
[22:49] (Molly) No, I don't believe so
[22:50] (@Morgan) Its... interesting.
[22:51] * Molly briefly checks her hair in a gilt-edged mirror
[22:51] (Molly) Oh?
[22:52] (@Morgan) the flame is still, it doesn't flicker
[22:55] * Molly turns, frowning in confusion
[22:55] (Molly) How is that possible?
[22:56] * @Morgan grins
[22:56] (@Morgan) I don't know
[22:57] * Molly smiles slightly
[22:58] (Molly) You're grinning, liebes herz...
[22:58] * @Morgan nods slightly
[22:58] (@Morgan) its intriguing
[22:59] (Molly) And that pleases you?
[22:59] * Molly smiles also
[22:59] (@Morgan) Not exactly, but it certainly piqued my curiosity
[22:59] * Molly nods
[23:01] (Molly) For a moment I was worried we might have another "we are the sons of Eisen so it belongs to us" moment *she raises an eyebrow, clearly teasing him*
[23:01] ** New query from Morgan (Available on submenu 'Windows')
[23:01] (@Morgan) I don't know where it comes from yet... and besides, that... _society_ had no business holding an item of Eisen heritage
[23:02] * Molly comes to him, wrapping her arms round his waist
[23:03] (Molly) Holding an item of Eisen heritage is an honour, I know
[23:03] * Molly giggles
[23:03] * @Morgan blushes
[23:03] * Molly laughs
[23:04] (Molly) I think perhaps you took that even further than I intended!
[23:04] (@Morgan) possibly, yes
[23:06] (Molly) Some would argue that as an object of Eisen heritage I have no business holding _you_
[23:12] (@Morgan) Some are welcome to bring their objections to me...
[23:13] * Molly smiles
[23:13] (Molly) I rather hope so
[23:14] * Molly squeezes him
[23:14] (Molly) Besides, they'd have to pry you from my hands... And I have rather a firm grip
[23:15] * @Morgan chuckles
[23:15] (@Morgan) aye, you do
[23:15] * Molly looks a little puzzled before shrugging it off and smiling
[23:16] (Molly) So, do you suspect magic?
[23:17] (@Morgan) I'm not sure yet
[23:17] (Molly) Can you do it?
[23:18] (@Morgan) Do...
[23:19] * Molly whispers
[23:20] (Molly)  Create a static flame
[23:20] (@Morgan) I don't know
[23:20] (Molly) It doesn't pique your curiosity?
[23:21] (@Morgan) I hadn't actually considered it...
[23:22] * Molly nods, watching him
[23:22] (Molly) Did you wish to try?
[23:23] (@Morgan) It might be worth finding out I suppose
[23:25] * Molly simply nods
[23:31] (Molly) **there's plenty of candles in their room
[23:32] * @Morgan looks at the candles briefly before speaking
[23:32] (@Morgan) perhaps get the food and drinks arranged first, though...
[23:33] (Molly) I believe we're to be called when they're ready
[23:33] * @Morgan nods slightly, looking back to the candle nearest him
[23:35] (Molly) *it becomes more steady, but still a live flame
[23:36] * @Morgan frowns, concentrating hard
[23:37] (Molly) *it remains the same
[23:37] * @Morgan sighs
[23:37] (@Morgan) well, I guess that answers that
[23:39] (Molly) I'm sorry liebling
[23:39] * @Morgan shrugs
[23:39] (@Morgan) so its something a damn sight more powerful than anything I can do...
[23:40] (Molly) Or something entirely different? Or not even magic?
[23:41] (@Morgan) quite possibly
[23:41] * @Morgan nods thoughtfully
[23:42] (Molly) Perhaps we will be enlightened by the story he wishes to tell us?
[23:43] (@Morgan) we can certainly hope so
[23:44] * Molly smiles
[23:45] (Molly) Maybe the mystery will distract you from your feelings on Jarvie's choice of honeymoon location?
[23:46] (@Morgan) maybe.... as if she'd be even slightly affected by my telling her off
[23:48] * Molly smiles
[23:48] (Molly) You might as well scream into the wind
[23:48] * @Morgan nods
[23:48] (@Morgan) indeed
[23:49] (Molly) Besides, I think she meant well. She'd probably be amused by your displeasure
[23:49] (@Morgan) more than likely... she has a slightly warped sense of humour
[23:51] * Molly nods
[23:52] (Molly) I'm sure one day you will think up a suitable revenge... Her own honeymoon in a nunnery perhaps?
[23:53] * @Morgan shrugs
[23:53] (@Morgan) perhaps
[23:53] * Molly smiles
[23:54] (Molly) What is it that troubles you so?
[23:54] (@Morgan) about...
[23:56] (Molly) The location, the... Expectation?
[23:56] (@Morgan) a little perhaps
[23:58] * Molly nods
[23:59] (Molly) I can understand that
[00:02] * Molly smiles
[20:23] (Molly) **the meal is amazing, lots of food even Morgan has never tried before. It isn't until after the eating is complete that Tao addresses the interest in the lantern by bringing it to the table. Even whilst in motion, the flame remains still.
[20:25] ** Morgan has joined #7thseaic
[20:25] ** ChanServ sets mode(s) +o  Morgan
[20:32] (Molly) [20:23] (Molly) **the meal is amazing, lots of food even Morgan has never tried before. It isn't until after the eating is complete that Tao addresses the interest in the lantern by bringing it to the table. Even whilst in motion, the flame remains still.
[20:35] (Molly) T: *he unlocks a small lock on the top, releasing all six glass panes and their gold fastenings until they're flat on the table like petals of a flower. In the centre is a small circular metal dish of oil, an unburnt wick and the golden flame burning brightly. It is unaffected by the air.
[20:36] ** You're now known as Tao
[20:36] * Tao looks at Morgan
[20:37] * @Morgan watches the flame closely
[20:37] (Tao) This lantern has been lit for the last 52 years, since I was six months old
[20:38] ** New query from Morgan (Available on submenu 'Windows')
[20:39] * Tao watches Morgan's reaction
[20:40] * @Morgan 's eyes narrow
[20:40] (@Morgan) how?
[20:40] * Tao smiles, familiar with this response
[20:41] (Tao) I suspect it is due to how it was lit
[20:44] (Tao) My father was a well-renowned archeologist. Our family name is Genau, and on our paternal side we are Eisen for as many generations as anyone can trace...
[20:44] (@Morgan) With no offense meant... you don't exactly look it
[20:44] (421) Tao :Unknown command
[20:45] * Tao and Ling laugh
[20:46] (Tao) Our mother was Cathayan. I promise you, the reaction to our blonde-haired blue-eyed father was of no less surprise to her people than ours is to yours
[20:47] * @Morgan nods
[20:49] (Tao) With a research grant from the university of Wittemburg he set out to look for syrneth artefacts in Cathay, a field of study that drew your cousin to seek him out three years ago, just before his death. 
[20:54] (@Morgan) She's rather passionate about it...
[20:55] (Tao) He was also. He said it was like looking for buried treasure. The only treasure he found was my mother. I was four months old when his grant ran out and he had to make the journey to the university to make arrangements for the future. Upon returning he found the Cathay border had become a wall of flame, trapping his wife and son on the other side.
[20:56] * @Morgan frowns
[21:00] (@Morgan) but if you were trapped on the other side...
[21:02] (Tao) He dug for three days and 3 nights to make a tunnel long enough to span the fire's width. Finally he collected my mother and I. He lit her a lantern from the wall so the dark tunnel would not scare her, and they crawled through to freedom. They watched as the ground seemed to groan and heave, and the tunnel collapsed. The fire grew brighter and hotter, and they felt a malevolence there. They came here, and Ling was born two years after. But the flame has never changed.
[21:04] ** New query from Morgan (Available on submenu 'Windows')
[21:09] * @Morgan nods slowly, watching the flame closely
[21:10] (Tao) It cannot be blown out, even in the strongest wind, or doused in water, or snuffed out
[21:10] (@Morgan) Can it light other flames?
[21:12] (Tao) No
[21:13] (Tao) And though his colleagues tried, the wall will not light anything except to burn it to ashes, metal and all
[21:14] (@Morgan) Now that is very very odd
[21:15] * Tao nods
[21:16] (Tao) Molly: *she looks thoughtful* perhaps it only lights on the inside?
[21:21] (@Morgan) Thats an intersting thought....
[21:23] (Tao) *she smiles. Tao looks to Morgan* try to blow it out
[21:23] * @Morgan blows at it
[21:27] (Tao) **it doesn't change at all
[21:30] * Tao smiles
[21:31] (Tao) Even buried in soil the flame remains. The wick has never burnt and the oil has never been replaced or filled
[21:33] (@Morgan) very intriguing... I assume my cousin found it fascinating also?
[21:35] (Tao) She was far more interested in my father's journals I'm afraid
[21:36] (@Morgan) She's definitely the sort who cant see the woods for the trees
[21:37] * Tao nods and they all laugh. Ling begins to clear away the plates, taking them towards the kitchen. Out of sight there is a crash and cursing.
[21:37] * Tao stands
[21:38] (Tao) Excuse me a moment
[21:38] * Tao follows his sister
[21:38] ** You're now known as Molly
[21:38] -NickServ- This nickname is registered. Please choose a different nickname, or identify via /msg NickServ identify <password>.
[21:38] -NickServ- You are now identified for Molly.
[21:38] (Molly) Well?
[21:39] (@Morgan) as I've said... intriguing...
[21:40] (@Morgan) and extremely tempting to tamper with#
[21:41] * Molly nods
[21:41] (Molly) I couldn't resist if it were me
[21:47] (@Morgan) I'm not entirely sure I can...
[21:52] * Molly looks confused
[21:52] (Molly) Can, or should?
[21:52] (@Morgan) resist tampering...
[21:53] (@Morgan) Oh I know I should... the word malevolent caught my attention
[21:56] * Molly nods solemnly, then starts to smile a little
[21:56] (Molly) But...
[21:59] * @Morgan sighs
[21:59] (@Morgan) its probably a bad idea
[22:02] * Molly sighs
[22:02] (Molly) Liebes herz, if you don't it'll bother you for years
[22:03] * @Morgan sighs
[22:03] (@Morgan) you're right, of course
[22:03] * Molly giggles
[22:04] (Molly) I usually am
[22:04] * @Morgan glances around to see if the proprietors are anywhere near
[22:04] (Molly) **they aren't
[22:05] * @Morgan looks at the flame, concentrating it on changing it in some way
[22:07] (Molly) **the sparkles it has become a blue colour, and the heat from it increases, but it does flicker
[22:10] (Molly) **it doesn't feel malevolent, but more like a contest of wills. He feels that if he tried hard enough he could possibly extinguish it
[22:11] * @Morgan tries to make it brighter
[22:13] (Molly) **it becomes very bright, hotter and whiter
[22:14] (Molly) **he doesn't feel any resistance to that*
[22:14] * @Morgan tries to dim it
[22:17] (Molly) *it becomes half as bright as normal but it is more blue than before, strongly resisting
[22:18] * @Morgan tries to make it dimmer again
[22:18] (Molly) *it does so, grudgingly
[22:19] * @Morgan stops concentrating on it
[22:19] (Molly) **it instantly returns to normal
[22:19] (@Morgan) There's definitely something there...
[22:20] * Molly watches him
[22:20] (Molly) Is there?
[22:20] * @Morgan nods
[22:20] (@Morgan) nothing... nasty, but its determined not to be snuffed out, wants to burn brighter
[22:22] * Molly smiles
[22:22] (Molly) Don't we all feel that way?
[22:22] * @Morgan nods slightly
[22:23] (@Morgan) generally speaking, candles don't, so far anyway
[22:25] * Molly nods
[22:25] (Molly) That is true
[22:27] (Molly) **they hear approaching footsteps

[20:30] * Molly offers him a glass of the complimentary champagne. She sits on the small white couch of their room, watching him with a smile.
[20:30] (Molly) Would you like some?
[20:32] * @Morgan wrinkles his nose a little
[20:33] (@Morgan) since they don't have any proper drink...
[20:33] * Molly laughs 
[20:33] (Molly) Perhaps if you were to ask...?
[20:34] (@Morgan) perhaps. No, I'll have some of that
[20:36] * Molly pours him some, moving to give him room beside her
[20:36] (Molly) So... The lantern...?
[20:37] * @Morgan sits beside her
[20:37] (@Morgan) its... interesting
[20:38] * Molly nods
[20:38] (Molly) It is a fascinating story
[20:38] * @Morgan nods
[20:39] (@Morgan) intriguing to say the least
[20:39] * Molly smiles 
[20:39] (Molly) Very romantic
[20:40] * @Morgan nods
[20:40] (@Morgan) I suppose it is, aye
[20:40] * Molly watches him playfully
[20:40] (Molly) Would you dig a huge tunnel to rescue me from behind a wall of flames?
[20:41] (@Morgan) I'm not keen on digging...
[20:42] * Molly laughs
[20:42] (Molly) No?
[20:43] (@Morgan) I suppose I could, though, if the situation called for it
[20:43] (Molly) Thank you
[20:43] * @Morgan chuckles
[20:44] (@Morgan) blossom, you must know I'd tear the world apart to rescue you if needs be
[20:44] * Molly blushes
[20:45] (Molly) I am honoured
[20:48] * Molly looks at him
[20:49] (Molly) You know it is the same for me, don't you?
[20:49] * @Morgan nods
[20:50] (@Morgan) I know blossom
[20:51] * Molly smiles
[20:51] (Molly) Good
[20:52] * Molly sips her champagne
[20:53] (Molly) There is only one other person I'd go to such lengths for
[20:53] * @Morgan nods
[20:56] (@Morgan) I miss him quite a lot
[20:56] (Molly) Me too. It will be lovely to see him again
[21:00] * Molly watches him
[21:00] * @Morgan nods slowly
[21:00] (Molly) Do you think your ability could affect the wall itself?
[21:01] (@Morgan) Maybe... though, if the lantern is anything to go by, it'd be much too... wilful for me to extinguish
[21:04] * Molly nods
[21:05] (Molly) It is asking rather a great deal
[21:07] * @Morgan nods
[21:07] (@Morgan) it does have a will of its own, that much I am sure of
[21:08] * Molly nods
[21:08] (Molly) I can not understand why you can affect it...
[21:09] (@Morgan) no?
[21:11] (Molly) If nothing else has affected it... But perhaps they've never tried magic?
[21:12] * @Morgan shrugs
[21:13] (@Morgan) I might ask them... and for some blokners
[21:14] * Molly nods
[21:14] (Molly) Now?
[21:15] * @Morgan shrugs
[21:16] (@Morgan) may as well
[21:17] * Molly nods, watching him go. The inn is nearly silent. He passes through the dining room past the lantern before reaching the kitchen
[21:20] (Molly) **Ling and Tao wash up the plates in silence, not hearing him
[21:21] * @Morgan knocks on the doorframe
[21:24] (Molly) T: My Lord?
[21:25] (@Morgan) I was wondering if you have any blokners... and I have a question about the lantern...
[21:27] (Molly) T: *he roots around in the back of a cupboard before producing two large bottles
[21:28] (Molly) T: they were a gift from Miss Jarvinia but... *he develops a look of distaste*
[21:28] (@Morgan) You don't like the flavour...
[21:30] (Molly) T: No, it's rather strong and bitter
[21:31] * @Morgan nods
[21:31] (@Morgan) its an acquired taste
[21:33] (Molly) T: *he nods, handing them over*
[21:33] * @Morgan takes them
[21:33] (@Morgan) thank you
[21:35] (Molly) T: What was your question?
[21:35] (@Morgan) I wondered if anyone has tried using magic to affect the lantern...
[21:37] (Molly) T: *he nods* Our father had many people come to inspect it. Fire magic, healing magic and even Porte were used to no effect
[21:37] (@Morgan) interesting...
[21:38] (Molly) T: Whatever was used to create it, it's seemingly resistant to magic
[21:38] ** New query from Morgan (Available on submenu 'Windows')
[21:39] * @Morgan nods thoughtfully
[21:43] (Molly) T: is there anything else we can do?
[21:43] (@Morgan) No, no thank you...
[21:43] * @Morgan inclines his head and wanders back to the suite
[21:46] * Molly is sat in bed with her glass, reading quietly. Unusually, he can see she's still wearing a light shift
[21:47] * @Morgan places the bottles on a table, searching for a suitable tankard
[21:48] (Molly) **he finds one
[21:49] (Molly) How did it go?
[21:49] * @Morgan pours himself a blokners
[21:49] * Molly puts her book on the nightstand
[21:49] (@Morgan) magic's never worked on it... or at least, what he describes as fire magic, or healing magic or porte...
[21:49] * Molly looks surprised
[21:50] (Molly) How strange!
[21:50] (@Morgan) isn't it
[21:50] * @Morgan smells his drink before sipping it
[21:52] * Molly smiles as she watches him
[21:52] (Molly) Perhaps their magic was not strong enough?
[21:53] (@Morgan) Its not the same... I've watched fire mages, they can throw fireballs, but I don't recall them ever extinguising or controlling a glame
[21:53] * Molly nods
[21:54] (Molly) I think you're right. Whatever yours is, it isn't something widely known
[21:55] * @Morgan nods
[21:55] (@Morgan) absolutely
[21:57] (Molly) I always knew you were something special
[21:58] * Molly smiles
[21:58] (@Morgan) something unusual perhaps
[21:58] (Molly) Exotic... Rare.
[21:59] (@Morgan) peculiar
[22:01] (Molly) Perfect.
[22:01] * Molly grins
[22:03] (Molly) Are you coming to bed, liebes herz? I'll keep my hands to myself, I promise *she smiles gently*
[22:04] * @Morgan finishes the tankard off
[22:04] (@Morgan) Aye
[22:07] * Molly nods. She finishes her glass whilst she waits.
[22:07] * @Morgan undresses and climbs into bed
[22:08] (Molly) I don't think we'd have come here if we'd come on just a tour of Eisen
[22:08] (@Morgan) probably not, no
[22:09] (Molly) I think it's lovely though, just a little... Unusual
[22:09] * @Morgan smirks
[22:09] (@Morgan) quite so
[22:09] (Molly) Perhaps if Jarvie had given us a proper warning...
[22:10] (@Morgan) yet I'm not exactly surprised...
[22:11] (Molly) That she did not warn us, or that she picked somewhere where we are so at liberty to get to know each other intimately?
[22:11] (@Morgan) both I suppose
[22:11] * Molly smiles
[22:12] (Molly) She is quite worldly
[22:12] * @Morgan nods
[22:13] (Molly) I'm sure she thought we'd love it
[22:13] (@Morgan) no doubt. She's not the sort to inflict something that'd be found unpleasant...
[22:14] (Molly) No, not at all
[22:14] * Molly yawns
[22:15] (Molly) Perhaps tomorrow you should tell them about that odd machine that Mr Merricet brought from the island
[22:15] * @Morgan nods slowly
[22:15] (@Morgan) possibly
[22:16] ** New query from Morgan (Available on submenu 'Windows')
[22:17] (Molly) Their father was interested in Syrneth artifacts. Jarvie asked me all about it
[22:18] (@Morgan) as long as she lives it alone, thats fine
[22:19] (Molly) She was intending to track it down... When she wasn't working on a dig... If that time ever came.
[22:19] * Molly giggles
[22:20] (@Morgan) Well, I'll put an end to that idea
[22:24] (Molly) How so?
[22:24] (@Morgan) I'm not having her messing around with that thing...
[22:25] * Molly nods
[22:26] (Molly) It should have been destroyed.  When I think how close I came to losing you... *she shudders*
[22:27] * @Morgan nods
[22:29] * Molly yawns
[22:29] (Molly) Well liebling, it's been a long day...
[22:30] * @Morgan nods
[22:30] (@Morgan) aye, it has
[22:31] * Molly smiles, relaxing into the pillow
[22:31] (Molly) Goodnight liebes herz
[22:31] (@Morgan) goodnight blossom
[22:32] * Molly , as promised, does indeed keep her hands to herself



[20:31] (Molly) [20:30] (Molly) **he dreams first of the schwarzenwald at dusk. Though he walks for hours, all he hears is the muttering of indistinguishable voices. After that he dreams he's pulling a fishing boat out of icy water onto the pebbled shores of the misty isle. He feels satisfied, settled. With the last provisions to see them through the winter, he covers his fishing boat til the spring. (Mtf)
[20:33] (Molly) He walks up the beach to their small cottage, smoke coming from the chimney. He experiences a brief confusion, a sense of deja vu, but presses on. He opens the door. Inside the light is low, preserving their candles. It's very small inside, their bedroom in one corner behind a curtain. But still he feels utterly content and at peace. (Mtf)
[20:36] (Molly) Molly brings him tea and a hot meal, accidentally bumping him with her belly, baby due any day. Laying his hand over his child, he is hit by a wave of joy and love, satisfied with his life. These feelings remain as he wakes in a strange bed, dawn illuminating the empty space beside him
[20:36] (Molly) ((Done))
[20:38] * @Morgan sits up, looking around the room
[20:39] * Molly is absent
[20:39] * @Morgan gets up, dressing quickly
[20:41] (Molly) **nothing is out of place
[20:41] * @Morgan heads out into the gardens looking for her
[20:47] * Molly is sat by the stream in just her shift, bare feet in the water. She's made boats from leaves and twigs which she watches sail one by one
[20:48] (@Morgan) Good morning blossom
[20:49] * Molly looks up with a smile
[20:49] (Molly) Good morning liebling. You looked too peaceful to disturb
[20:50] * @Morgan nods
[20:50] (@Morgan) you are well?
[20:53] * Molly nods
[20:53] (Molly) I was just out here to think, that is all
[20:54] (@Morgan) oh?
[20:55] (Molly) The Rose, Varick, the future...
[20:55] * @Morgan sits beside her
[20:56] * Molly smiles
[20:57] (Molly) Would you prefer I find a gown if we are to stay out here?
[20:57] * @Morgan smiles
[20:58] (@Morgan) Not if you're comfortable... I believe that was part of the point of the high walls...
[20:59] (Molly) I am quite comfortable, but your... discomfort at the venue concerns me
[21:00] (@Morgan) whyso?
[21:02] (Molly) I do not like to see you uneasy, especially if it is from my actions
[21:03] * @Morgan shakes his head
[21:03] (@Morgan) its fine blossom, I'll adjust to it
[21:04] * Molly takes his hand
[21:04] (Molly) We could leave early, if you wish
[21:05] (@Morgan) No blossom, its quite possible its the only peace we'll get
[21:06] * Molly nods
[21:07] (Molly) Once we return home, we will be accompanied by several people from now on, probably until we settle down in Innesbruck
[21:10] * @Morgan nods
[21:10] (@Morgan) indeed
[21:12] (Molly) Does it trouble you?
[21:13] (@Morgan) a little perhaps
[21:14] (Molly) Because you do not wish to share my attention? *she giggles*
[21:16] (@Morgan) mostly, aye
[21:17] * Molly rests her head on his shoulder
[21:17] (Molly) Even when we can not be together, you'll be in my thoughts, as always
[21:18] * @Morgan rests his cheak against her hair
[21:18] (@Morgan) as you will be in mine.
[21:18] * Molly sighs contentedly
[21:19] (Molly) It will be a very different life, but an exciting one
[21:20] * @Morgan nods
[21:21] (@Morgan) I cant imagine it'll be easy
[21:23] * Molly laughs
[21:24] (Molly) Liebes herz, we've known each other a while now... How often have we had things be easy?
[21:25] * @Morgan nods slightly
[21:25] (@Morgan) good point
[21:25] (Molly) Except falling in love with you... That was far too easy
[21:30] (@Morgan) Funny how that happened
[21:30] * Molly pushes a little boat with her toe
[21:31] (Molly) That I fell in love with you?
[21:31] (@Morgan) and vice versa
[21:31] * Molly nods
[21:31] (Molly) Lucky that it was both of us
[21:32] * @Morgan nods
[21:34] (Molly) Is there anything you'd like to do today? We could visit the village, or walk the banks of der Rotstrom... Or stay here and relax?
[21:34] (@Morgan) Thats entirely up to you
[21:35] * Molly laughs
[21:35] (Molly) That is never a wise choice, liebling
[21:36] * @Morgan chuckles
[21:36] (@Morgan) probably not, no
[21:36] * Molly smiles
[21:37] (Molly) I know! Let's have breakfast in bed
[21:39] (Molly) Then perhaps we should make plans for the Rose
[21:39] * @Morgan nods
[21:39] (@Morgan) as you wish blossom
[21:41] * Molly nods
[21:44] (Molly) **They do just that. The breakfast is left for them in the antechamber and a bell rung as promised. The food is wonderful, the coffee is strong and dark. They eat quietly together.
[21:45] (Molly) I don't think I've ever done this before
[21:48] * Molly sips her coffee
[21:51] ** New query from Morgan (Available on submenu 'Windows')
[21:52] (@Morgan) breakfast in bed?
[21:53] * Molly nods
[21:53] (Molly) My mother is quite strict sometimes
[21:54] (@Morgan) I cant say I have
[21:55] * Molly looks surprised
[21:55] (Molly) Never?!
[21:56] * @Morgan shakes his head slightly before sipping the coffee
[21:57] * Molly smiles
[21:57] (Molly) In romance novels, the Ladies always have their breakfast and hot chocolate in bed the morning after balls
[21:58] * @Morgan shrugs
[21:58] (@Morgan) I dare say others do it... just not me
[22:02] * Molly nods
[22:02] (Molly) You aren't like other nobles
[22:02] (@Morgan) You've noticed that?
[22:05] (Molly) Oh yes. You're in bed with a servant girl... That is not uncommon. But that you married me, that is very rare
[22:08] (@Morgan) You're a very rare servant girl...
[22:09] * Molly laughs, shaking her head
[22:10] (Molly) I'm nothing special I'm afraid
[22:10] (@Morgan) how wrong you are
[22:10] ** New query from Morgan (Available on submenu 'Windows')
[22:13] * Molly smiles
[22:13] (Molly) You know I'd have loved you just the same even if you were as common-born as I, don't you?
[22:15] * @Morgan nods
[22:17] (Molly) Good. It is important to me that you know I love you exactly how you are, and do not seek to manipulate or change you.
[22:17] * @Morgan nods
[22:18] (@Morgan) I know blossom
[22:23] * Molly moves their plates before coming to snuggle against him, careful not to spill her coffee.
[22:23] (Molly) I could get used to this
[22:26] ** You are now disconnected