[21:02] ** ChanServ sets mode(s) +o  Morgan
[21:12] (Molly) [20:53] * Molly wakes him whilst it's still dark, intent on making an early visit to Walder as promised. Her voice is quiet but effective at rousing him from dreams of them making love in the secret garden. She quickly dresses in the trousers and waistcoat he bought her in Seeufer.
[21:15] * @Morgan dresses in his travelling clothes
[21:18] * Molly kisses his cheek briefly, heading to speak to her father about his request. By the time Morgan has sorted the Palominos and their trunk, the sun is starting to rise
[21:18] * @Morgan stands watching the sun rise
[21:19] * Molly comes up behind him, laying a gentle hand on his shoulder
[21:19] (Molly) Are you well?
[21:20] * @Morgan nods
[21:20] (@Morgan) how did it go?
[21:25] * Molly shrugs
[21:25] (Molly) I have said I'll take care of it
[21:26] * @Morgan nods
[21:26] (@Morgan) and Walder?
[21:27] * Molly smiles
[21:27] (Molly) I haven't been there yet
[21:27] * @Morgan nods
[21:27] (@Morgan) I see
[21:32] (Molly) We were invited for breakfast, I thought you'd wish to join us?
[21:32] * @Morgan nods
[21:33] (@Morgan) aye, sounds like a plan
[21:39] (Molly) **shortly after, they're sat at Walder and Jacques table eating a rather hearty breakfast. There is no bad feeling at all. Molly explains gently a plan where they attempt to use the link twice a week at a set time, how to keep it secret, what to do if it stops working, or if anything troubling occurs. She manages to explain it so nicely that it even for a moment feels to Morgan like a good thing
[21:43] (Molly) **with these plans agreed, they get ready to leave, heading in to the coachyard
[21:44] (Molly) W: *he bows to Morgan* Thank you Milord, for everything you've done for Innesbruck, and Jacques and I
[21:45] * Molly meanwhile speaks quietly to Jacques
[21:45] * @Morgan inclines his head
[21:45] (@Morgan) we're not done yet, we've still a lot of work to do, but we've made a good start
[21:49] (Molly) W: that's more than anyone has done since your uncle was alive Milord
[21:52] * Molly smiles at Walder
[21:53] (Molly) Thank _you_ for everything you have both done. I was sorely afraid the corruption in Innesbruck had spread throughout the staff, but you have more than proven your honour, decency and steadfastness to me
[21:54] (Molly) W: *he blushes, bowing* thank you Milady. Safe travels to you both
[21:54] * Molly smiles, climbing up into the saddle without the hinderance of massive skirts
[21:55] * @Morgan nods to the man and his son before hauling himself into the saddle
[21:57] (Molly) Auf wiederschaun!
[22:00] (Molly) **waves are exchanged, and once more the newlyweds hit the road, their last trip alone together before collecting their new son. They're out of Innesbruck a few miles before Molly speaks. The morning is fresh but not cold, perfect for riding. Heading west for Sudlachenburg, they seem to chase the escaping dawn
[22:00] (Molly) That went well I think
[22:00] * @Morgan nods
[22:00] (@Morgan) not bad
[22:01] * Molly watches him
[22:02] (Molly) I know it makes you deeply uneasy, and I will do my best to limit your exposure if you prefer
[22:02] * @Morgan shrugs
[22:02] (@Morgan) its not something I can avoid really
[22:04] * Molly shrugs
[22:05] (Molly) You need not be in the same room, or touch anything
[22:05] (@Morgan) I'll manage blossom
[22:09] * Molly smiles gently, looking at the angle of the sun
[22:09] (Molly) I'd think we'll be in Sudlachenburg not long after lunch if we keep good pace
[22:10] * @Morgan nods
[22:10] (@Morgan) sounds about right I think
[22:12] (Molly) It feels odd, going back
[22:12] (@Morgan) oh?
[22:12] * Molly smiles
[22:13] (Molly) So much has happened the last four weeks since we were wed...
[22:15] * @Morgan nods
[22:15] (@Morgan) aye, its definitely been an eventful few weeks
[22:21] * Molly giggles
[22:21] (Molly) It was a good job we had those days in Bonn, I think eventually we'd have cracked under the constant weight of so much pressure
[22:22] * @Morgan nods
[22:22] (@Morgan) possibly... or, more likely, I'd have done something Eisen to someone
[22:23] * Molly smiles
[22:24] (Molly) Give it time, liebes herz... A certain Comte should be under arrest in Fischler by now
[22:24] * @Morgan nods
[22:24] (@Morgan) I'll bet that'll make my cousin nervous
[22:27] * Molly tries not to grin
[22:27] (Molly) Poor Alarice.
[22:27] * @Morgan shrugs
[22:27] (@Morgan) poor nothing
[22:29] * Molly nods
[22:30] (Molly) She deserves all she gets
[22:30] * @Morgan nods
[22:33] * Molly watches him
[22:33] (Molly) What do you wish me to keep secret?
[22:34] (@Morgan) Varicks heritage until I know what I'm doing, so the truth about Innesbruck as well... probably best not mention magic, my father might explode
[22:35] * Molly laughs
[22:36] (Molly) I think if you wished to be Graf now, it'd be the fastest method!
[22:37] * @Morgan nods
[22:37] (@Morgan) probably
[22:38] (Molly) But your father being Varick's next of kin on Karsten's side is not a secret?
[22:38] (@Morgan) For now, I think, since as far as anyone knows, Alarice is his next of kin... which leads into his heritage
[22:39] * Molly nods
[22:40] (Molly) Perhaps we didn't ought to tell him that we're riding horses that were somewhat creatively acquired
[22:41] * @Morgan shrugs
[22:41] (@Morgan) maybe
[22:41] * Molly is clearly teasing him
[22:41] (Molly) Maybe we should say we stole them because we can't be trusted alone together in a carriage
[22:42] (@Morgan) And now _you're_ trying to kill him?
[22:42] * Molly smiles warmly
[22:44] (Molly) After what I told him what I'd do to you were I forced to remain in Sudlachenburg for our honeymoon, I suspect he wouldn't be all that shocked if I said such
[22:44] * @Morgan nods slowly
[22:44] (@Morgan) good point
[22:46] (Molly) He'd be shocked about Alarice's nude painting perhaps
[22:46] (@Morgan) oh I would imagine so
[22:48] (Molly) I'm not sure he'd approve of such art
[22:49] * Molly smiles
[22:49] (@Morgan) probably not... though, he has his moments of deviance from his strict moral code
[22:49] * Molly looks intrigued
[22:49] (Molly) Does he?
[22:50] * @Morgan nods slightly
[22:50] (@Morgan) he's made the odd smutty remark
[22:52] * Molly 's eyes light up as they always used to back on the Torrington Estate, voice lowering to the tone of gossip
[22:52] (Molly) Really? What did he say?
[22:53] * @Morgan shrugs
[22:56] (@Morgan) something about getting a woman into a corset being easier
[22:56] * Molly laughs
[22:57] (Molly) And is it?
[22:57] * @Morgan nods
[22:57] (@Morgan) which reminds me, I need to pay up for that bet
[22:57] * Molly looks surprised
[22:58] (Molly) _you_ made a bet?!
[22:58] (@Morgan) he made a bet, and I'm not one to let my father run his mouth like he knows everything...
[22:58] (@Morgan) in this instance, however, he did
[22:58] * Molly laughs hard
[22:59] (Molly) Oh dear, you'll never hear the end of it, liebes herz
[23:01] (@Morgan) No, probably not
[23:01] * Molly smiles playfully
[23:01] (Molly) Was there anything else about our marital activities he wished to wager on?
[23:01] * @Morgan shakes his head
[23:02] (Molly) Probably wise... I think perhaps it'd cost him a great deal of money
[23:02] * Molly giggles
[23:02] * @Morgan chuckles
[23:03] (Molly) After all, _I_ would have betted it would have taken _years_ to persuade you to make love to me outdoors
[23:04] * Molly grins
[23:04] (@Morgan) What can I say, that place had a... relaxing effect on me
[23:05] * Molly sniggers
[23:05] (Molly) Quite the opposite in certain arrears....
[23:05] (Molly) Areas*
[23:06] (@Morgan) well, yes, thats true
[23:06] (Molly) Not that I'm complaining, of course
[23:07] * Molly smiles softly
[23:07] (@Morgan) of course...
[23:07] (Molly) **a little time passes, quietly churning the miles beneath hooves
[23:07] (Molly) What about Edward?
[23:08] (@Morgan) What about him?
[23:08] * Molly watches him
[23:09] (Molly) Are you telling your father he is in Eisen, if he isn't there already?
[23:09] * @Morgan nods
[23:09] (@Morgan) I dont think it'd be right to keep that from him
[23:11] * Molly watches him a long moment before nodding
[23:11] (Molly) Of course
[23:14] * Molly sighs softly
[23:14] (Molly) What would you have me do, liebes herz?
[23:15] * @Morgan grins momentarily
[23:15] (@Morgan) just be you
[23:15] * Molly shakes her head
[23:17] (Molly) I don't always know who I am lately. Eisen ways of thinking and behaving are slowly weaving in to me, such as my fear at not being safe because I was not wearing the Sudlache ring
[23:17] * @Morgan nods
[23:17] (@Morgan) But, at that moment, that is you
[23:18] (Molly) It does not disappoint you that I am losing some of my Avalon rationality?
[23:20] * @Morgan shrugs
[23:20] (@Morgan) You are who you are, at any given time, blossom
[23:21] (Molly) So you do not wish to provide me direction?
[23:21] (@Morgan) You feel you need some?
[23:22] * Molly thinks this over for a few minutes
[23:22] (Molly) I suppose I wish to know how cordial I ought to be...
[23:23] (@Morgan) With Edward?
[23:24] * Molly nods
[23:24] (Molly) Yes
[23:24] * @Morgan shrugs
[23:24] (@Morgan) I am eager to not upset mother...
[23:25] * Molly nods
[23:25] (Molly) I understand. Should I pretend I do not know?
[23:25] * @Morgan shrugs
[23:25] (@Morgan) I'm not sure... it might be best for the time being, though
[23:26] * Molly nods
[23:27] (Molly) We are only staying two nights, perhaps we will not see him
[23:27] * @Morgan nods
[23:27] (@Morgan) possibly.... probably, in fact
[23:27] * Molly nods slowly
[23:28] * Molly watches him
[23:28] (Molly) Liebes herz *she sighs* do you wish me to be armed?
[23:29] (@Morgan) You think he might try again?
[23:29] * Molly 's brow furrows
[23:30] (Molly) I don't think it likely, but I also don't like to completely discount things out of hand
[23:30] * @Morgan nods
[23:30] (@Morgan) if you feel the need to, blossom...
[23:30] * Molly watches him
[23:31] (Molly) I dont want _you_ being concerned every moment that I am without defense
[23:31] * @Morgan nods
[23:32] (@Morgan) I understand... aye, I think I would feel better if you had something to defend yourself with
[23:32] * Molly nods
[23:33] (Molly) I wish he hadn't returned to Eisen... *she searches his gaze, wondering how frank to be, a notion he hears in her thoughts*
[23:34] (@Morgan) Realisitically, as soon as the decision to come home was made, it was inevitable.
[23:35] (Molly) Yes, but did it have to be so soon?!
[23:35] (@Morgan) Evidently so... and even if not, once Yensid caught up with him, he'd be returning...
[23:36] (Molly) But we wouldn't be here. *she sighs* I'm worried for you, liebling
[23:36] (@Morgan) Why?
[23:37] (Molly) Because his presence could set back your healing so much, could reopen old wounds
[23:38] * @Morgan shrugs
[23:38] (@Morgan) needs must
[23:39] * Molly keeps her eyes on the road ahead
[23:40] (Molly) Aye
[23:41] (@Morgan) besides, its something that'll occur a lot in our future anyway
[23:41] (Molly) Is it? I thought he was being neatly shackled to Kiev
[23:42] (@Morgan) If he weren't, we'd have to deal with him anyway...
[23:43] (Molly) Yes, I think you're right
[23:45] (@Morgan) Naturally
[23:45] * Molly smiles
[23:46] (Molly) Except in matters involving corsets it seems
[23:46] (@Morgan) I just obkected to my fathers self satisfied manner...
[23:46] * Molly smirks
[23:47] (Molly) And yet you had no objection to my self-satisfaction at Bonn
[23:47] (@Morgan) entirely different...
[23:48] (Molly) Oh?
[23:48] * Molly raises an eyebrow to illict further explanation
[23:48] (@Morgan) your manner wasn't self satisfied, only your desire...
[23:49] * Molly nods
[23:49] (Molly) Good answer
[23:50] * Molly looks thoughtful
[23:50] (Molly) Have you ever tried shooting an arrow without aiming?
[23:52] * @Morgan shakes his head
[23:52] (@Morgan) No, its counter intuitive
[23:53] (Molly) Why?
[23:53] (@Morgan) it just feels wrong.
[23:53] * Molly nods
[23:54] (Molly) So you've never tried it blindfolded either?
[23:54] (@Morgan) definitely not
[23:54] * Molly nods slowly
[23:54] (Molly) Interesting
[23:56] (Molly) I am merely curious as to what would happen if you tried, whether perhaps it is your mind that prevents it
[23:59] (@Morgan) I'm dubious about finding out...
[23:59] (Molly) **they continue to stay away from the topic of Edward for the rest of the journey, arriving in the village at the predicted time*
[19:43] (Molly) **As they arrive in the village, it's quiet, most people taking their lunch. He spots Claudia stood with a messenger and his horse, clearly arguing
[19:43] * @Morgan heads in her direction
[19:45] * Molly follows along. Claudia firmly gives the man some coins and a threat, sending him on his way. She's dressed as always, and wears only the falchion at her waist
[19:47] (@Morgan) Making friends as always...
[19:48] ** You're now known as Claudia
[19:48] (Claudia) He's lazy
[19:49] (@Morgan) That seems to be a fairly common trait
[19:50] * Claudia nods
[19:50] (Claudia) You're back for the wedding?
[19:51] * @Morgan nods
[19:51] (@Morgan) mostly, aye
[19:51] (Claudia) *molly watches them, then excuses herself, heading into a small shop
[19:53] (Claudia) Did you enjoy your honeymoon?
[19:54] * @Morgan nods
[19:54] (@Morgan) most of it. Whats been happening here?
[19:55] * Claudia shrugs
[19:55] (Claudia) Your father's guards are as trained as they can be
[19:55] * @Morgan nods
[19:55] (@Morgan) Glld
[19:55] (@Morgan) Good*
[19:56] (Claudia) The new settlement is almost complete
[19:56] (@Morgan) Thats come along qwll
[19:56] (@Morgan) well*
[19:57] ** New query from Morgan (Available on submenu 'Windows')
[19:57] * Claudia nods
[19:57] (Claudia) Apart from that, nothing's really happened
[19:57] * @Morgan nods
[19:57] (@Morgan) good
[20:00] (@Morgan) I need you to do something for me
[20:00] * Claudia looks serious
[20:01] (Claudia) Always.
[20:01] (@Morgan) Keep an eye out for Edward... I want to know as soon as he arrives here
[20:03] (Claudia) Just watch out? Not detain?
[20:03] (@Morgan) No, just watch.
[20:05] * Claudia nods
[20:05] (Claudia) I'll see to it
[20:06] * @Morgan nods
[20:06] (@Morgan) thank you
[20:06] * Claudia nods
[20:06] (Claudia) Anything else?
[20:07] (@Morgan) I dont think so, no
[20:08] * Claudia clasps his arm in their familiar parting gesture before leaving. Molly returns, saddling up
[20:09] ** You're now known as Molly
[20:09] (Molly) Is all well?
[20:09] * @Morgan nods
[20:09] (@Morgan) so far, so good
[20:10] * Molly smiles
[20:10] (Molly) Good
[20:11] (Molly) **they arrive back at the house to the excitement of the servants who see them. Before they've even entered the familiar house, Adalbrecht is stood on the doorstep smoking a cigar with a smile.
[20:15] (Molly) **he embraces his daughter in law and then his son* preparations have been made for you to get straightened up in your rooms. Morgan, if you'll join me afterwards, we'll have a late lunch in my rooms. Your mothers wish to see Molly and catch up.
[20:15] * @Morgan nods
[20:15] (@Morgan) as you wish
[20:15] * Molly smiles
[20:15] (Molly) Thank you
[20:16] (Molly) *he nods* Off you go
[20:17] * @Morgan nods, heading into the house
[20:18] (Molly) **they make their way through the large, quiet halls and stairways to the north wing, their own private apartments. As promised, they have all they could need to clean up, and fresh clothes. Everything is separated into their individual rooms, and she is still half undressed when he comes to bid her farewell
[20:24] (@Morgan) You are well?
[20:25] * Molly smiles
[20:25] (Molly) Yes, thank you. I am looking forward to seeing everyone. And you?
[20:25] * @Morgan nods
[20:25] (@Morgan) well enough
[20:26] (Molly) Good
[20:26] * Molly interlinks the busks on her corset
[20:26] (Molly) Are you concerned about speaking with your father?
[20:28] (@Morgan) A little, aye
[20:28] * Molly looks to him
[20:29] (Molly) Could you please tighten me up? What concerns you?
[20:30] * @Morgan sets about tightening the laces
[20:30] (@Morgan) I'm wondering which bit will upset him most...
[20:32] * Molly braces herself as he works
[20:32] (Molly) Which things are likely to upset him?
[20:33] (@Morgan) pretty much everything involving my brother, our choosing to live elsewhere, the magic, the montaigne with their seeds of forgetfulness... you name it...
[20:34] * Molly sighs
[20:34] (Molly) Best hide what we can I think
[20:34] * @Morgan shrugs, tying off the lacing
[20:35] (@Morgan) We'll see.
[20:35] * Molly turns
[20:35] (Molly) Is there anything I can do to make you feel better?
[20:36] * @Morgan shakes his head
[20:36] (@Morgan) I'll be fine blossom
[20:37] * Molly nods
[20:38] (Molly) I'll keep you in my thoughts, liebling
[20:39] (@Morgan) thank you blossom
[20:42] ** Morgan has said your nick on Morgan
[20:42] * @Morgan sighs
[20:42] (@Morgan) best get on with it
[20:43] * Molly kisses him briefly and smiles as he goes. He walks through to Adalbrechts chambers, seeing no-one. Adalbrecht calls him in. He's sat at a small table, port and blokners beside a large lunch laid for two. Adalbrecht looks cheerful and relaxed.
[20:44] * @Morgan inclines his head
[20:44] (@Morgan) My lord
[20:45] * Molly smiles
[20:45] ** You're now known as Adalbrecht
[20:46] (Adalbrecht) Sit down Morgan. I choose this room instead of my office so you wouldn't stand on formality
[20:46] * @Morgan sits down
[20:47] (@Morgan) Force of habit I think
[20:48] * Adalbrecht nods
[20:48] (Adalbrecht) Port or Blockners?
[20:48] (@Morgan) Blokners, please
[20:49] * Adalbrecht pours some, then port for himself
[20:49] (Adalbrecht) How was your honeymoon?
[20:50] (@Morgan) Eventful, given all we had planned
[20:50] * Adalbrecht nods
[20:51] (Adalbrecht) I should warn you, your mothers are hoping that Molly is... With child, and therefore you will not be leaving
[20:52] (@Morgan) Mother will be disappointed
[20:52] * Adalbrecht nods
[20:53] (Adalbrecht) I warned them they were expecting too much
[20:53] (@Morgan) them?
[20:53] (Adalbrecht) Verity and Martha
[20:53] * @Morgan nods
[20:54] (@Morgan) We've far too much to get done just now
[20:54] * Adalbrecht takes a large mouthful of Port
[20:54] (@Morgan) However, if it will please them at all, they do, technically, have a grandson
[20:54] * Adalbrecht smiles
[20:55] (Adalbrecht) Congratulations. Did it go smoothly?
[20:55] (@Morgan) No. One of the judges was determined to deny the petition, baiting me as much as he could.
[20:55] * Adalbrecht frowns
[20:55] (Adalbrecht) Why?
[20:56] * @Morgan shrugs
[20:56] (@Morgan) his own agenda, perhaps. He disliked me before I even entered the room
[20:56] * Adalbrecht nods
[20:56] (Adalbrecht) But it is done and binding?
[20:57] * @Morgan nods
[20:57] * @Morgan sips the blokners
[20:57] (Adalbrecht) And the Stewardships?
[20:58] (@Morgan) Mine.
[20:58] (Adalbrecht) That is a relief, as the Graf.
[20:59] (@Morgan) Unfortunately, it does bring us to a few issues I want to raise...
[20:59] * @Morgan sips the drink again, slowly
[20:59] * Adalbrecht nods, starting to eat
[21:00] (Adalbrecht) Go on
[21:00] (@Morgan) What was your impression with Innesbruck?
[21:03] (Adalbrecht) It seemed a little depressing
[21:03] (@Morgan) a little depressing
[21:03] * @Morgan nods
[21:03] (@Morgan) And you and David both looked the books over?
[21:03] (Adalbrecht) Briefly, yes
[21:03] (@Morgan) and all was as it should be?
[21:05] * Adalbrecht nods
[21:05] (@Morgan) and the villagers?
[21:06] (Adalbrecht) They did not speak to us more than the bare minimum. But that is common behaviour, unfortunately
[21:07] * @Morgan sighs, sipping the blokners
[21:10] * Adalbrecht watches him
[21:10] (@Morgan) Well... the slightly depressing village is... _was_ actually full of despair, even going so far as to implement their own toll to raise some money to pay the rents and taxes... the people were _starving_.
[21:10] * Adalbrecht frowns deeply
[21:11] (Adalbrecht) Why didn't anyone tell me? I am their _Graf_.
[21:11] (@Morgan) The only money to be found had been syphoned off into the overseers coffers, which is why _his_ house was so luxurious while everyone else sheltered in ruined houses... the rest of the money was used to pay debts on behalf of the baronnesses paramour
[21:11] * @Morgan looks at his father
[21:11] (@Morgan) Why didn't you, or David, notice?
[21:12] * Adalbrecht looks surprisingly troubled
[21:12] (@Morgan) I'm sorry, father, but you both were blind to the problems there... problems that were, in fact, easy to see.
[21:13] * Adalbrecht nods
[21:13] (Adalbrecht) You're right. That should not have escaped my notice.
[21:13] * @Morgan picks up some bread, biting into it
[21:14] (Adalbrecht) How do things stand now?
[21:14] (@Morgan) I've never known a place suffer so much misery, and I've been to Ussura...
[21:15] * Adalbrecht frowns deeply, thinking
[21:15] (@Morgan) now... its improving, rents and taxes have been amended, though at a detriment to the income of the village, but thats a problem it simply must bear. The people are better fed, thanks to the supplies you sent. The lawlessness has ended as far as anyone can tell, thanks to an object lesson
[21:15] * Adalbrecht nods
[21:16] (Adalbrecht) The Grafdom will support its recovery in whatever way necessary
[21:16] * @Morgan nods
[21:17] (Adalbrecht) What has happened to the overseer?
[21:17] (@Morgan) I'm hoping it'll manage from here on... the help hauling in the harvest wont go unnoticed either
[21:17] (@Morgan) ah, him... he died. Drank himself to death
[21:17] * Adalbrecht nods
[21:17] (@Morgan) I've installed a new overseer
[21:18] (Adalbrecht) Good. A good overseer is worth his weight in gold
[21:18] (@Morgan) returned the posessions the old one took as payment for taxes to the people, if nothing else, as a gesture of apology. *his eyes narrow* you might not think so when you hear who it is
[21:19] * Adalbrecht frowns
[21:19] (Adalbrecht) Who?
[21:19] (@Morgan) Heinrich
[21:20] (Adalbrecht) After he lied to you and dallied with your cousin?
[21:20] * @Morgan nods
[21:21] (@Morgan) speaking of dallying with my cousin... you remember she had designs on wanting to marry me?
[21:22] (Adalbrecht) Hold on... _why_ have you appointed a disgraced valet as an overseer?
[21:22] * @Morgan smiles slightly
[21:22] (@Morgan) because he's capable of doing the job.
[21:22] (Adalbrecht) And you trust him?
[21:23] * @Morgan nods slightly
[21:23] (@Morgan) enough, anyway
[21:23] * Adalbrecht nods
[21:23] (Adalbrecht) Alright, go on
[21:23] (@Morgan) well... our marriage wouldn't have been allowed anyway
[21:24] (Adalbrecht) By whom?
[21:24] * @Morgan picks up some more food, chewing on it
[21:24] (@Morgan) the law, for a start
[21:24] * Adalbrecht looks confused
[21:24] (Adalbrecht) Why not?
[21:24] (@Morgan) you've heard of the laws of affinity?
[21:24] * Adalbrecht nods slowly
[21:25] (@Morgan) think about it...
[21:25] * @Morgan sips his drink
[21:25] (Adalbrecht) It was mentioned by you before your wedding.
[21:26] (@Morgan) it means person A cannot marry person B if they have previously had intimate dealings with person B's siblings...
[21:26] * Adalbrecht groans
[21:26] * Adalbrecht rubs his forehead
[21:27] (Adalbrecht) Is there anyone that girl will not bed?!
[21:28] (@Morgan) There was talk of a pregnancy, but either she lost it, or took actions to ensure such...
[21:28] (@Morgan) He's in Eisen, since we're talking about him
[21:29] * Adalbrecht looks horrified, laying down his fork. At Morgan's final statement, he crosses his arms
[21:29] (Adalbrecht) At least he'll be on a tight leash here
[21:30] * @Morgan grins
[21:30] (@Morgan) aye
[21:30] * Adalbrecht broods about this whilst swirling the port in his glass
[21:31] * @Morgan sips the blokners
[21:31] (Adalbrecht) When will he arrive?
[21:32] (@Morgan) I bumped into Holzheim a few days ago, he'd already arrived then... I'm a little surprised he hasn't gotten here before me
[21:34] * Adalbrecht nods, downing the remaining Port
[21:34] (Adalbrecht) Perhaps he's heard about the wedding
[21:34] (@Morgan) maybe
[21:34] (@Morgan) On the plus side, we're not at risk of being surrounded and invaded anymore
[21:36] (Adalbrecht) Were we before? *he smiles*
[21:37] * @Morgan nods solemnly
[21:37] (@Morgan) Karsten was planning on gaining as much land as possible and hemming sudlachenburg in
[21:37] * Adalbrecht looks alarmed and puzzled
[21:38] (Adalbrecht) Karsten?! Alarice's _husband_?!
[21:38] * @Morgan nods
[21:39] (Adalbrecht) I thought we were kin.
[21:39] * Adalbrecht looks angry
[21:40] (@Morgan) It didn't much amuse me, either... There's a good chance he'd have been successful, if not for is... 'accident'
[21:43] (Adalbrecht) But how?!
[21:43] (@Morgan) an arrangement with Maubourg
[21:45] * Adalbrecht swears, for only the second time Morgan can ever recall, the first being when he announced his marriage to Dietlinde
[21:45] (Adalbrecht) Why?
[21:46] (@Morgan) Power, obviously
[21:46] (Adalbrecht) Why not annexe Maubourg instead?
[21:46] (@Morgan) That came later, once Maubourg had helped him secure all the land
[21:47] (Adalbrecht) But he seemed so trustworthy
[21:47] * @Morgan shrugs
[21:48] * Adalbrecht pours more blokners
[21:48] (Adalbrecht) How did you discover this?
[21:48] (@Morgan) obviously, this stays between us... whatever he was, Varick doesn't need his belief of his father destroyed...
[21:48] (@Morgan) You know when you find a loose thread, and you cant help pulling at it?
[21:49] * Adalbrecht nods
[21:49] (Adalbrecht) You found a loose thread in Innesbruck?
[21:49] * @Morgan nods
[21:50] (@Morgan) well, Koln
[21:50] (@Morgan) a whole hidden room...
[21:50] (Adalbrecht) How had it not been found sooner?
[21:51] * @Morgan shrugs
[21:51] (@Morgan) It was rather well hidden... and, its finding is tied up in ghost stories
[21:53] (Adalbrecht) Ghosts?
[21:53] * @Morgan nods
[21:54] * Adalbrecht sighs
[21:54] (Adalbrecht) You're just full of good news today (!)
[21:54] * @Morgan nods
[21:55] (Adalbrecht) There are ghosts in Koln?
[21:55] (@Morgan) probably... if you believe in that sort of thing
[21:55] (Adalbrecht) I'm a child of the Sudlache
[21:56] * @Morgan smiles
[21:56] (@Morgan) I was trying to make it easier on you...
[21:56] (Adalbrecht) I appreciate that
[21:57] * @Morgan sips the blokners
[21:57] (@Morgan) Varick had an utterly horrendous time of it...
[21:58] (Adalbrecht) Given Karsten's newly revealed villainy, I am not surprised
[21:58] (@Morgan) Actually, he doted on him... its since his death, Alarice's treatment of him is nothing short of evil, in my opinion
[21:59] * Adalbrecht nods
[21:59] (Adalbrecht) She's a cruel and devious woman. Her father would be ashamed.
[22:00] * @Morgan nods
[22:00] * @Morgan thinks for a moment
[22:00] (Adalbrecht) But he's safe from her now, thanks to you
[22:01] (@Morgan) I'm not convinced of that... even Jarvie has warned me about how cruel and vindictive she can be
[22:02] (Adalbrecht) You are still going to Fischler?
[22:02] * @Morgan nods
[22:02] (@Morgan) Our plans remain the same... mostly
[22:02] (Adalbrecht) Mostly?
[22:02] (@Morgan) More good news, I'm afraid
[22:07] (Adalbrecht) Go on
[22:07] * Adalbrecht sips the blokners
[22:07] (@Morgan) We want to settle in Innesbruck
[22:07] * Adalbrecht frowns deeply
[22:07] (Adalbrecht) Why?
[22:08] (@Morgan) We want our own space, for a start
[22:09] (Adalbrecht) You have the north wing.
[22:10] * @Morgan watches his father for a moment
[22:11] (@Morgan) the north wing of someone elses house, where I have to do as I'm told and check everything I do is alright before I do it...
[22:11] * Adalbrecht watches right back
[22:12] (Adalbrecht) It is tradition. All the Veisgrafs have lived there. All the heirs were born there.
[22:13] (@Morgan) its tradition to be afraid of anything even slightly out of the ordinary, but I'm not that either
[22:14] (Adalbrecht) Your mother and hers will be very upset
[22:15] (@Morgan) I trust you and I respect you, but if you want an absolute reason, I'll want your promise it'll not be mentioned again
[22:16] * Adalbrecht nods
[22:16] (Adalbrecht) Alright
[22:16] (@Morgan) No matter what...
[22:16] (Adalbrecht) No matter what.
[22:17] * @Morgan sighs, gulping the blokners, before holding the glass out for more
[22:17] (@Morgan) Alarices father made a particular condition in his will...
[22:17] * Adalbrecht damn near fills it
[22:18] (Adalbrecht) I've seen it, it was all fairly straightforward
[22:18] (@Morgan) you remember the clause about Innesbruck?
[22:19] (Adalbrecht) That it goes in trust to Alarice for his eldest grandchild
[22:20] (@Morgan) and if she does not produce a child, it goes to...
[22:20] (Adalbrecht) You. And?
[22:21] * @Morgan stares at his father for a moment
[22:21] (@Morgan) Think about it... why I'd be so keen to go back there instead of, say, Koln...
[22:22] (Adalbrecht) The adoption doesn't cancel her out, Morgan
[22:22] (@Morgan) I'm aware of that...
[22:23] (Adalbrecht) Stop speaking in riddles. What are you telling me?
[22:23] (@Morgan) Its mine.
[22:24] * Adalbrecht stares at him
[22:25] (Adalbrecht) I saw her two weeks before the birth, and two weeks after. I know where babies come from.
[22:25] (@Morgan) Please, just trust me.
[22:26] * Adalbrecht rubs his face
[22:26] (Adalbrecht) You're telling me that Varick is not her child?
[22:26] * @Morgan nods
[22:26] (Adalbrecht) And not our kin?
[22:27] (@Morgan) I didn't say that
[22:27] (@Morgan) and even if I did, it'd make no damn difference to me
[22:28] (Adalbrecht) Where did he come from? What of Koln?
[22:28] (@Morgan) Koln is his, he's Karstens son
[22:28] (Adalbrecht) Karsten had an affair?!
[22:29] (@Morgan) a mistress. Alarice has no idea that she isn't his mother
[22:29] * Adalbrecht gulps his drink
[22:30] (Adalbrecht) You are technically the Freiarr of Innesbruck
[22:30] * @Morgan nods
[22:30] * Adalbrecht nods slowly
[22:31] (@Morgan) For now, though, that does not get mentioned at all... I think that sort of upheaval is the last thing Varick needs
[22:31] (Adalbrecht) Meaning I can not forbid you from living there without annexing you.
[22:31] * @Morgan looks at his father earnestly
[22:32] (@Morgan) Its where we want to be, its where we'd want to be even if it wasn't mine. They need us there, so I'm asking for your permission and understanding here
[22:32] (@Morgan) I'm not trying to force the issue one way or another, I swear
[22:32] (Adalbrecht) But what about the heirs?
[22:32] * @Morgan smiles slightly
[22:33] (@Morgan) We'll come back, perhaps?
[22:33] (@Morgan) I would imagine Molly would want to be near her mother when the time comes, dont you?
[22:33] * Adalbrecht nods
[22:33] (Adalbrecht) That would be common, yes.
[22:34] (@Morgan) and, lets be honest, it'd be a damn fine way to get me ready to take over as Graf, dont you think?
[22:34] * Adalbrecht sighs grudgingly
[22:34] (Adalbrecht) Yes, I suppose it would
[22:35] * @Morgan smiles slightly
[22:35] (@Morgan) besides, you wouldn't annex me, it'd be too dangerous
[22:36] * Adalbrecht smiles
[22:36] (Adalbrecht) If you prefer to think of it that way
[22:36] * @Morgan laughs
[22:37] (@Morgan) Did you hear the rumour that I was a spy, while I was away?
[22:37] * Adalbrecht nods
[22:37] (Adalbrecht) I did
[22:37] (@Morgan) I found out where that came from
[22:37] (Adalbrecht) Where?
[22:37] (@Morgan) Faulk
[22:38] * Adalbrecht laughs
[22:38] (Adalbrecht) Why?
[22:38] (@Morgan) I didn't get that out of him.
[22:38] * Adalbrecht nods
[22:38] (Adalbrecht) Very strange
[22:39] * @Morgan nods
[22:40] (@Morgan) He has the delightful comte de la fare in custody, incidentally
[22:40] * Adalbrecht looks pleased
[22:40] (Adalbrecht) For?
[22:41] (@Morgan) I haven't decided yet. He has quite a bit to answer for. As I said, a lot of Innesbrucks money went into paying off his debts, and when that stopped, because of my arrival, collectors were sent
[22:42] * @Morgan frowns
[22:42] (@Morgan) they did something incredibly stupid
[22:44] * Adalbrecht looks both serious and intrigued
[22:44] (Adalbrecht) What did they do?
[22:44] (@Morgan) Attacked Molly... we think they were going to rape her
[22:45] * Adalbrecht looks livid, eyes murderous
[22:45] (Adalbrecht) Who and where are they?
[22:45] (@Morgan) Montaigne collectors, buried head down
[22:46] * Adalbrecht grins savagely
[22:46] (Adalbrecht) Good.
[22:47] (@Morgan) I've tried to feel guilty about my method of dispatching the main culprit, but I just cant.
[22:48] (Adalbrecht) What did you do to him?
[22:48] (@Morgan) I chopped into his groin, then stabbed him in the belly and let him bleed to death
[22:48] * Adalbrecht 's expression is full of typically Eisen mirth
[22:49] (Adalbrecht) A fitting ending for such a wretch
[22:49] * @Morgan nods
[22:50] (Adalbrecht) How is she?
[22:50] (@Morgan) She's ok
[22:50] * Adalbrecht looks at him with compassion
[22:50] (Adalbrecht) That can not have been easy for you
[22:51] (@Morgan) No. It wasn't.
[22:52] * Adalbrecht nods, deep in thought
[22:52] (Adalbrecht) Her safety is important to Sudlachenburg
[22:52] (@Morgan) take your graf hat off for a while would you? Its mildly offensive to imply thats the main reason
[22:53] * Adalbrecht looks apologetic
[22:54] (Adalbrecht) Her safety is important to us as her family because we love her. Is that better?
[22:54] (@Morgan) much, thank you
[22:54] * Adalbrecht inclines his head briefly
[22:55] (Adalbrecht) I want to be sure Edward does not have the slightest opportunity to hurt her or Varick.
[22:56] (@Morgan) He wont. Though, I have had some time to think about how to restrict his opportunity
[22:56] (Adalbrecht) Yes?
[22:56] * @Morgan smiles
[22:57] (@Morgan) I'd like to keep that to myself for the time being
[22:57] * Adalbrecht frowns
[22:57] (Adalbrecht) Why?
[22:57] (@Morgan) Becuase... he's not going to like it, and I'd like the pleasure of telling him
[22:58] * Adalbrecht watches him
[22:58] (Adalbrecht) Am I going to disapprove?
[22:58] (@Morgan) Most likely. Given your understanding in other issues, I'll tell you if you wish me to
[22:59] * Adalbrecht watches him a moment
[23:00] (Adalbrecht) No. I'm going to trust you. You've done much to prove that you're fit to follow in my footsteps, so I will trust you to have not chosen something that would harm Sudlachenburg
[23:00] * @Morgan shakes his head emphatically
[23:01] (@Morgan) definitely not
[23:01] * Adalbrecht nods
[23:01] (Adalbrecht) Good.
[23:01] (@Morgan) something that might bring a smile to your face... The dear Graf Maubourg became aware of an unfortunate dealing of Karstens...
[23:02] (Adalbrecht) How unfortunate (!)
[23:02] * @Morgan chuckles
[23:02] (@Morgan) you recall Teresa, Maubourgs daughter?
[23:03] * Adalbrecht wrinkles his nose
[23:03] (Adalbrecht) Unfortunately, yes
[23:03] (@Morgan) As is the norm, she was pure and virginal awaiting a suitor to marry...
[23:03] (@Morgan) except...
[23:03] * @Morgan sips the blokners
[23:04] (@Morgan) Maubourgs coconspirator in the taking over of the area had other ideas...
[23:04] * Adalbrecht laughs
[23:04] (Adalbrecht) Why would Karsten do such a thing?!
[23:05] (@Morgan) power, obviously. What does it give him? Stronger ties to Maubourgs lands
[23:06] (Adalbrecht) All Eisenmen like power, but there are limits!
[23:06] (@Morgan) Not to him... which is why I think he was... eliminated
[23:06] * Adalbrecht frowns
[23:06] (Adalbrecht) It wasn't an accident?
[23:07] (@Morgan) I've no proof, but I've ridden his horse... he's a solid mount, not prone to shying... something happened, in a particular area that the horse wont approach. I just don't know what
[23:08] * Adalbrecht nods
[23:08] (Adalbrecht) Very strange
[23:09] * @Morgan nods
[23:10] (@Morgan) Maubourg went mad when I told him...
[23:11] (Adalbrecht) I am not surprised, it does not do for ladies to behave in such a manner
[23:11] * @Morgan nods
[23:11] (@Morgan) he challenged me to a duel over it
[23:12] * Adalbrecht sighs
[23:12] (Adalbrecht) Is he badly injured?
[23:13] * @Morgan opens his mouth, closes it and thinks for a moment
[23:13] (@Morgan) Not exactly... I asked him if he was sure he wanted to, given that I don't lie and don't make accusations without evidence... at which point he went totally mad at his daughter and had some sort of... episode
[23:14] * Adalbrecht looks surprised
[23:14] (@Morgan) Molly says he must remain calm from now on, lest worse occurs, and gave him a tonic of sorts that he must drink daily
[23:15] (Adalbrecht) Oh dear. Is he likely to worsen then?
[23:15] * @Morgan sips his drink
[23:15] (@Morgan) well, he's been told to put his affairs in order to be safe
[23:17] * Adalbrecht nods
[23:18] (Adalbrecht) That sounds wise
[23:18] (@Morgan) he thought so
[23:19] * Adalbrecht nods
[23:19] (Adalbrecht) An eventful honeymoon to be sure. Molly was not too upset that you had so much work to do?
[23:20] (@Morgan) We had a week just the two of us, so it balanced out fairly well
[23:20] * Adalbrecht nods
[23:21] (Adalbrecht) Good. It's important to keep the ladies happy
[23:22] * @Morgan nods, eating some more
[23:22] (@Morgan) absolutely
[23:23] (Adalbrecht) Which is why we should discuss how to keep the situation with Edward from them
[23:25] (@Morgan) probably a good idea
[23:26] (Adalbrecht) I don't want your mother to know, it would kill her.
[23:26] * @Morgan nods
[23:26] (@Morgan) agreed
[23:27] (Adalbrecht) Martha has no need to know. Molly knows already?
[23:27] * @Morgan nods
[23:27] * Adalbrecht frowns slightly
[23:28] (Adalbrecht) Let's try to limit their contact where possible.
[23:28] (@Morgan) I don't know that'll work, but Molly wont bring it up...
[23:29] * Adalbrecht watches Morgan
[23:30] (Adalbrecht) I don't distrust her, but I know that she can be quite passionate when defending those she cares for
[23:30] (@Morgan) we've spoken about it a lot
[23:30] * Adalbrecht nods
[23:31] (Adalbrecht) It isn't going to be easy. Frankly, if I didn't think he would be more dangerous loose I'd have disowned and banished him.
[23:32] (@Morgan) That wouldn't do any of us any good in terms of the future of Sudlachenburg and Eisen
[23:33] (Adalbrecht) No, it wouldn't. But he needs to know how the land lies here
[23:33] (@Morgan) Which is why when I tell him what his future holds, you're going to back me.
[23:34] * Adalbrecht watches him
[23:35] (Adalbrecht) I have been the Graf for 25 years. Do you understand how hard it is to blindly agree to the decision of another when it comes to _my_ Grafdom and family?
[23:36] * @Morgan nods
[23:36] (@Morgan) as I've said, if you wish me to, I'll tell you
[23:37] (Adalbrecht) I do not need to know, but I need you to understand the significance in the same way you needed me to understand me removing all your weapons.
[23:38] * @Morgan nods
[23:38] (@Morgan) I understand
[23:38] * Adalbrecht nods, very solemn
[23:38] (Adalbrecht) Good.
[23:39] (Adalbrecht) I'll have Edward's arrival watched for
[23:39] * @Morgan nods
[23:39] (@Morgan) I've got Claudia keeping an eye out
[23:40] * Adalbrecht nods slowly
[23:40] (Adalbrecht) Are you intending to duel him?
[23:40] (@Morgan) Duelling is an honourable fight... he doesn't have any.
[23:40] (@Morgan) Regardless, no.
[23:41] * Adalbrecht nods
[23:41] (Adalbrecht) Alright. Tomorrow morning I want you to come to the settlement
[23:42] * @Morgan sighs
[23:42] (@Morgan) As you wish
[23:43] (Adalbrecht) You do not want to?
[23:44] (@Morgan) I won't do anything to affect Heinzharolds wedding
[23:44] * Adalbrecht smiles
[23:44] (Adalbrecht) The wedding is three o'clock.
[23:46] * Adalbrecht sips his blokners
[23:46] * @Morgan nods
[23:47] (Adalbrecht) Apparently the Graf has some grand notion in his head and the wedding is being held in the chapel where his own son got married last month
[23:48] (@Morgan) really?
[23:49] * Adalbrecht nods
[23:49] (Adalbrecht) Oh yes. He thinks he's quite clever
[23:49] (@Morgan) why?
[23:50] * Adalbrecht grins
[23:50] (Adalbrecht) I'd rather keep that to myself, til tomorrow
[23:50] (@Morgan) I cant really complain at that
[23:53] * Adalbrecht smiles
[23:53] (Adalbrecht) You'll like it, I promise
[23:54] * Adalbrecht and Morgan finish their lunch in easy quiet, discussing only how things fare in Sudlachenburg, which is no different than Claudia said