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Logging started for Blitzed:#7thseaic on Monday, 15 April 2019 21:07:53 British Summer Time
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** You have joined #7thseaic
(Molly) (Faulk) **When she finishes, he smiles at her* Very nice. You play well. *She blushes* Thank you your Grace,  I was fortunate to have my wonderful mother-in-law to instruct me for many hours whilst our husbands were at the building site. *he looks to Morgan. She returns to playing with the practice pedal depressed, once more humming the tune she had earlier, unfamiliar*
(Molly) (Faulk) F: How did the work go during your honeymoon?
(Molly) (@Morgan) Well. Everyone seems to be settling in
(Molly) (Faulk) It is completed?
(Molly) * @Morgan nods
(Molly) (@Morgan) my father had a plaque put in place
(Molly) (Faulk) He mentioned whilst I was there that he planned to
(Molly) (@Morgan) little bit vainglorious if you ask me
** You're now known as Faulk
(Faulk) I thought it was a good idea. He was proud of you.
(@Morgan) He wasn't when I told him I had everyone helping build 
* Faulk frowns slightly
(Faulk) That is a pity. It is a shame he wasn't there at the time
* @Morgan smiles slightly
(@Morgan) he'd have put a stop to that sharpish
* Faulk waves a hand
(Faulk) And I'd have had to overrule him
** Morgan has said your nick on Morgan
* Faulk looks slightly amused
(Faulk) It wouldn't be the first time I've overruled a Graf
(@Morgan) Probably the strangest reason to do it though
* Faulk watches him a moment
(Faulk) What better reason than because it benefits Eisen?
* Faulk sips his coffee
(@Morgan) I rather suspect your background colours your perspective on noble people doing physical labour
* Faulk looks genuin1 genuinely
* Faulk looks genuinely amused
(Faulk) Perhaps, perhaps. Not many Eisenfurst helped build the dwellings their Nieblungen reside in either
(@Morgan) I'd be inclined to do that, given what their mines mean to you
(Faulk) And yet most the dwellings at the other mines were created by workers
(@Morgan) I think we've established that you and I are not of the normal noble mindset, generally speaking
* Faulk nods
(Faulk) Indeed. It can make things challenging though. Sadly, the noble mindset and the grit needed to repair our motherland do not easily go hand in hand.
(@Morgan) it just needs a little... shift, I think
* Faulk sips his coffee thoughtfully, briefly glancing to Molly and Varick, who are quietly playing together
(Faulk) I agree. I would like to see our Konigsreich lead the charge in that.
* @Morgan finally sips his coffee, wincing slightly
(@Morgan) You may want to work on your son, in that regard then
* Faulk looks at Morgan
(Faulk) It's a work in progress
(Faulk) **Varick looks over at Morgan and Faulk,  looking a little unsure of himself*
* @Morgan nods, sipping his coffee again
* Faulk looks at Varick, then Morgan
(Faulk) In my experience, no matter how one intends a son to turn out, some of it is down to luck
(Faulk) F: *he makes eye contact with Varick, motioning him over, then he looks back to Molly* My dear veisgrafin,  would you sing and play for us? As I recall, you have a lovely voice, and a distraction would be most welcome.
(Faulk) *She looks at Morgan a moment, a flicker of uncertainty there, trying to read how tense he is, before looking back to Faulk* If it would please your Grace, of course.
(Faulk) *he smiles* think of it as the request of a friend, not the demand of an Eisenfurst. *She nods and blushes, looking humbled* What would you like to hear?
(Faulk) F: *he looks at Morgan briefly, then back* Surprise us.
(Faulk) *she smiles warmly* I'm afraid the veisgraf has heard all but a handful of the songs I know, so to surprise him would be a challenge. But I could try, if you wish? *her gaze moves from Faulk to Morgan as if seeking his approval *
(@Morgan) play whatever you wish to blossom
(Faulk) *She moves to the middle of the piano bench, and Varick comes over to Morgan, sitting on his lap. She bows her head a moment, brow furrowed, eyes downcast. Though he doesn't read her thoughts or feelings, he can perceive them strengthening.
* Faulk and Varick both watch her with curiosity. She begins to play Love Of My Life, which he's vaguely heard in Avalon before, not looking up. The expression on her face is a mix of anguish and solemnity.  Her voice is strong as always, but he's never heard her sing with such a depth of pain and raw sadness
(Faulk) *Varick looks at Morgan a moment with a small smile
* @Morgan hugs the boy closer
(Faulk) In places her breath hitches as if she's on the verge of tears. The resigned,  plaintive tone of the last line brings the song to it's conclusion. She finishes, eyes closed, head bowed. She inhales deeply, then exhales fast through parted lips. She looks at Morgan with a little smile, curious at his reaction
* @Morgan smiles slightly, obviously awed
* Faulk blushes hard, biting her lip. Her gaze moves to the Eisenfurst, and her eyebrows raise in surprise
* @Morgan glances at Faulk
(Faulk) *Tears run down Faulk's cheeks, clearly moved by the song. He stands and goes to her* My dear, dear Veisgrafin! That was exquisite! *She blushes hard* Thank you, your Grace
(Faulk) **Morgan hears the faintest sound of footsteps**
* @Morgan mutters 
* Faulk offers his hands to her, and Morgan feels the briefest flash of unease from her. Still, she takes them, as etiquette would dictate. Morgan can still hear the footsteps, and recognises them as Claudia's
(Faulk) **Varick hops down and runs to sit next to Molly again*
(Faulk) **Molly looks to Morgan with the slightest of frowns, head tilted slightly as she also hears the sound. Neither Faulk nor Varick seem to have noticed
* @Morgan tilts his head slightly, trying to gauge the distance of the sound
(Faulk) *the sound is coming closer to the door, not sneaking, fast but not running.
(Faulk) **it's around 25 feet from the door
* @Morgan stands and moves to the door
* Faulk looks over at Morgan with puzzlement
* @Morgan opens the door, looking outside
(Faulk) **Claudia is right there, closing in on the door
** You're now known as Claudia
(Claudia) * he hears Molly get up from the piano. "Your turn Mauschen, I need a drink after that!" *her tone is light, and he hears the faintest sound of her lifting the sword off the top of the piano*
* @Morgan looks at Claudia questioningly 
(Claudia) Just checking in, my Lord. &Gestures: Isiah has a guard with him, and they're taking about allegations of withcraft*
(Claudia) Witchcraft *
* @Morgan pokes his head back into the room briefly
(@Morgan) excuse me a moment
(Claudia) **Varick is playing, Fischler is sat beside him, interested. Molly is stood facing the door, coffee cup casually in her left hand, sword in her right by her thigh. She nods a little* Of course, liebling
* @Morgan exits the room, closing the door
* Claudia watches him
* @Morgan speaks quietly
(@Morgan) what allegations?
* Claudia looks fairly neutral, though knowing her as well as he does he sees the slightest hint of tension around her eyes. Her voice is quiet
(Claudia) Isiah was saying that there are many signs that witchcraft charges should be brought. The guard seemed to be disuading him, arguing that no one would believe it. As you would be able to verify whether that guard is one of the ones who were in Sudlachenburg,  I wanted to find you rather than listen more.
* @Morgan nods
(@Morgan) who were they discussing?
* Claudia looks a little concerned
(Claudia) They didn't say
* @Morgan nods
(@Morgan) lets go find out, shall we?
* Claudia nods, keeping pace with him
* Claudia leads him towards the corridor where he took the drunken Isiah to his office a few hours before
(@Morgan) is that all you heard?
* Claudia nods
(Claudia) The guard wasn't very deferential. More like a close friend.
* @Morgan nods
(@Morgan) old friend, apparently
(Claudia) **They get close to the office, the door very slightly open. Voices can be heard
* @Morgan slows to listen
(Claudia) G: Come on, Isiah! The Eisenfurst will never accept it.
(Claudia) I: He might. I am sure there are several people that will attest to it.
(Claudia) G: Even if you can persuade him, I hear that Graf Sudlachenburg can be a real stick in the mud. Getting him on side would be important.
(Claudia) I: Assuming we wait that long.
* Claudia looks at Morgan with a frown
(Claudia) G: If you're thinking what I'm thinking, it's bloody awful idea.
* @Morgan tilts his head, looking somewhat intrigued
(Claudia) I: Well, I can't have someone using Theus knows what magic within the Konigsreich or my Grafdom...
(Claudia) G: *He sighs heavily* You'll regret it. I believe I told you that about your last brilliant idea
(Claudia) I: You're such an asshole, Dieter, you know that?
* Claudia looks uncharacteristically concerned. Her hand, as it did earlier when Alarice was making her threats, goes subconsciously to the spot where Molly healed her arm
* @Morgan whispers
(@Morgan) go back to the music room, keep watch. I'm going to do something Eisen
* Claudia inclines her head, creeping off
* @Morgan pushes the door open, leaning against the jamb
(Claudia) *Both men look surprised, and a quick look passes between them. Isiah is sprawled on the chaise Morgan left him on. He looks much better having slept. His friend is sat on the desk, idly polishing a sword
** You're now known as Isiah
(Isiah) Good morning again, Veisgraf. You'll notice some of the perfume smell is gone!
* @Morgan looks the guard over
(Isiah) **he is typically Eisen, lighter and shorter than Morgan, and familiar from the Eisenfursts entourage
(@Morgan) indeed it is... I take it you're airing it out
* Isiah nods
(Isiah) I am hoping to be rid of any trace as soon as possible
(@Morgan) along with any witchery, hmm?
(Isiah) G: *he shakes his head with a faint sigh*
* Isiah inclines his head, feigning nonchalance whilst watching Morgan carefully
(Isiah) Indeed. Witchery is not good.
(@Morgan) Since you need to get my father onside, perhaps I'd be useful in that respect
(Isiah) G: *he looks at Isiah* Don't say I didn't warn you. *he gets off the desk, sheathing the sword*
* Isiah looks assessingly at Morgan
(Isiah) Maybe...
* @Morgan looks at Dieter
(@Morgan) Don't suppose you've had a new cloak recently...
(Isiah) *he looks quickly at Isiah who nods slightly* Yes, my Lord
(@Morgan) Interesting... interesting...
* Isiah looks directly at Morgan
(Isiah) You refer, I presume, to the one that was left at your blacksmiths in Sudlachenburg
(@Morgan) Indeed I do
(@Morgan) Very warm, I might add
* Isiah nods
(Isiah) They're good cloaks
(@Morgan) Your father thought it rather suspicious, one of his entourage skulking around a blacksmiths
(Isiah) D: *he looks at Isiah with a smirk* And I warned you that time too!
(Isiah) I: *he laughs* You want another black eye, do you? *he looks to Morgan* Dieter was running an errand for me, nothing particularly suspicious
(@Morgan) ah but some suspicion... I see *he nods as if making a mental note*
(Isiah) D: *he mutters with an amused tone* not suspicious, just fucking stupid
* Isiah laughs
(Isiah) I am sorry to say there's no need for suspicion here, veisgraf.
* @Morgan shrugs
(@Morgan) thats almost a disappointment... 
(@Morgan) as you were saying, however... my father is, as you put it, a stick in the mud
* Isiah nods
(Isiah) Indeed, that is his reputation I am afraid. However, that only connects to the missing cloak in the loosest way. Dieter was running an errand for me, which was making an engagement ring for your cousin.
* @Morgan blinks slowly
(@Morgan) I'm sorry, I've moved back to needing my father on-side
(Isiah) D: Did you ever find that bloody ring again? *Isiah shakes his head* No. Must have fallen out of the coach. Worth a fortune too
* Isiah then looks at Morgan
(Isiah) It wouldn't necessarily have to be your father. Ideally it would be, but if you're as opposed to magic and witchcraft as the rest of the Konigsreich,  you could do.
(@Morgan) well, I've never been insulted _and_ flattered at the same time... no, wait, thats not true. Who's been catching your eye?
(Isiah) **Morgan feels a very brief flash of Molly's pain*
(Isiah) D: Isiah, this is a really bad idea... **Isiah looks at his friend with suddenly cool eyes* If I wanted _your opinion_ I'd ask for it.
** Morgan has said your nick on Morgan
* Isiah looks back to Morgan
(Isiah) Your cousin
(@Morgan) Alaric?
(Isiah) D: *he sighs. Morgan hears in his mind "I'm ok, violin string snapped"*
* Isiah smiles slightly
(Isiah) Bloody Alarice.
(@Morgan) you'll have to enlighten me
(Isiah) Well, some might say she seems to have an unnatural ability to entrance men.
(Isiah) D: *he just watches Isiah, unimpressed*
* @Morgan tilts his head, looking around Isiah's hairline
* Isiah closely watches for any expression on Morgan's face before deciding what to say. There's nothing of significance
(@Morgan) Some might say...
* Isiah shrugs a little
(Isiah) If enough people,  or specific people, thought that, it would mean resolving the situation permanently in the immediate future
* @Morgan hikes a thumb at Dieter
(@Morgan) I agree with him
(Isiah) D: *he inclines his head in thanks*
* Isiah looks at Morgan
(@Morgan) It sounds like you're retaliating for being made to look a fool...
(@Morgan) which, incidentally, is entirely in your own mind
* Isiah speaks quieter
(Isiah) It would resolve a situation that is going to cause damage to both our families
(@Morgan) Yes, it would. But that doesn't make it _right_
(@Morgan) and what good are we if we can't stand for whats right
(Isiah) Do you know she _hasn't_ used witchcraft then?
(@Morgan) She's a beautiful charming woman... who happens to be remarkably manipulative, but thats not witchcraft, and you know it
* Isiah appears to take stock of this
(Isiah) You won't support it then?
(Isiah) D: *he looks at Morgan with a shrug and eye roll that seems to say "I give up"
(@Morgan) No, because its not true
(Isiah) **A servant comes along the corridor, looking for someone
* Isiah looks at Morgan frankly
(Isiah) How would you suggest we find a speedier resolution?
* @Morgan looks at the servant
(@Morgan) who're you looking for?
(Isiah) **He's an older man, late 70s. He squints at the hand written calling card in his hand* Veisgraf Sudlachenburg
(@Morgan) that'll be me
(Isiah) **he hands it over. The pretty tan card has golden gilt and little birds. It says that Mina hopes to visit with him in the afternoon, unless he sends word that he cannot*
* @Morgan looks at the servant, thanking him
(Isiah) Servant: Oh and his Grace sends apologies that he cannot stay in the Music Room as he has a visit from Herr  Reicher.
* Isiah changes position, folding his arms, head tilting. He says nothing
(Isiah) Serv: Anything else, my Lord?
(@Morgan) no, thank you
* @Morgan looks at Isiah
(Isiah) Serv: *he goes. Dieter looks to Isiah "Want me to see what I can find out?"
* Isiah nods. He still looks irritated with his friend. Dieter inclines his head to Morgan "Veisgraf Sudlachenburg"
* @Morgan nods to him
(@Morgan) Isaiah, its a bad idea, and I urge you to think again
(Isiah) D: *he disappears off down the corridor*
* Isiah frowns
(Isiah) It would only work with a Koertig on side. If I can not get one, I'll abandon it.
* @Morgan nods
(@Morgan) Do you have much sway with the guardhouse?
* Isiah nods
(Isiah) A large amount, yes
(@Morgan) I need one of the guards removing
* Isiah 's eyes narrow slightly
(Isiah) Who, and why?
(@Morgan) my cousin has made threats to my wife and Varick... and one of the guards is a distant relative of hers, so I'd rather remove any possibility she might sway him
* Isiah nods. He rings a bell
(Isiah) That sounds wise. *he looks thoughtful* I doubt you would know, but is there any chance a ring with two sapphires and a diamond was found in Sudlachenburg after we left?
(@Morgan) I'll ask my mother, if its found she'll likely know about it
* Isiah nods
(Isiah) I should have known that that ring going missing was an omen on the marriage. What are the chances of losing a newly made engagement ring worth three hundred builders before it's even out of the box?
(Isiah) Guilders *
(@Morgan) I'm confused... why have it made? Were there arrangements in place already?
* Isiah sighs
(Isiah) No, as you say, she is a beautiful,  charming, and manipulative woman. I'd  been in Sudlachenburg only a few hours before I agreed with her that we would make a good couple

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Logging started for Blitzed:#7thseaic on Tuesday, 16 April 2019 16:07:45 British Summer Time
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** You have joined #7thseaic
(Molly) (Isiah) I should have known that that ring going missing was an omen on the marriage. What are the chances of losing a newly made engagement ring worth three hundred builders before it's even out of the box?
(Molly) (Isiah) Guilders *
(Molly) (@Morgan) I'm confused... why have it made? Were there arrangements in place already?
(Molly) * Isiah sighs
(Molly) (Isiah) No, as you say, she is a beautiful,  charming, and manipulative woman. I'd been in Sudlachenburg only a few hours before I agreed with her that we would make a good couple
(@Morgan) she certainly likes to play all the angles
* Molly nods slowly
** You're now known as Isiah
(Isiah) You mentioned earlier her previously expressing an interest in wedding you
* @Morgan nods
* Isiah looks thoughtful
(Isiah) She was quite attached to that ship's captain too
(@Morgan) Until she discovered he couldn't father any children
* Isiah looks a little surprised
(Isiah) I wouldn't have expected that from her
(@Morgan) She's all about power
* Isiah nods
(Isiah) You are correct there. Wealth, and power.
(Isiah) **there are footsteps in the hall once more, a pair of guards. They appear to just be patrolling rather than looking for anyone
** You are now disconnected (Ping timeout)

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Logging started for Blitzed:#7thseaic on Tuesday, 16 April 2019 16:27:13 British Summer Time
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** You have joined #7thseaic
(Molly) [16:26] (Isiah) **there are footsteps in the hall once more, a pair of guards. They appear to just be patrolling rather than looking for anyone
** Isiah has quit (Remote host closed the connection)
* Molly Isiah
** You're now known as Isiah
* Isiah comes to the door to look, then frowns, going back to the couch
(Isiah) I'll send someone to the guardhouse to remove that guard. Is there any other way I can assist you?
(@Morgan) not that I can think at the moment, but I'll let you know
* Isiah looks at Morgan
(Isiah) If this were already my Konigsreich,  she'd be dead. Attempted murder of a Veisgraffin is punishable by hanging. I would not be awaiting your father's arrival.
* @Morgan shrugs
(@Morgan) justice must be seen to be done, even if it means waiting
(Isiah) It is not unjust to proceed without him. We have the evidence we need.
(@Morgan) But the rest would remain unanswered
* Isiah looks interested
(Isiah) The rest of what?
(@Morgan) the charges against her... 
(Isiah) Having her husband murdered?
* @Morgan nods
(Isiah) I was led to believe you have already evidence of that to the Eisenfurst
(Isiah) Given*
(@Morgan) he wants the whole thing, diary et cetera
(Isiah) Tell me more of this diary. What is in it? Where did it come from?
(@Morgan) Karstens, written in code... quite a clever man, if something of a reprobate
* Isiah motions Morgan into the room
(Isiah) What does it say?
(@Morgan) I'm afraid you'll have to hear that from your father
* Isiah frowns
(Isiah) Why?
(@Morgan) because its not my place to say
(Isiah) You refuse to tell a Graf? *his expression is hard to read, could be irritatiation, could be impressed*
(@Morgan) You expect me to go behind an eisenfurst?
* Isiah shrugs
(Isiah) Perhaps not.
(Isiah) My father has asked yours to bring this diary?
(@Morgan) I would imagine so... I'm not privy to what your father has requested of mine
* Isiah nods
(Isiah) This is a dreadful business.
(@Morgan) could be worse I suppose
(Isiah) It could get worse yet.
(@Morgan) that I do not doubt
* Isiah looks at Morgan a moment before rising, inclining his head
(Isiah) If there's nothing further?
(@Morgan) indeed, I should get back to my wife
* Isiah nods, going to sit at his desk
* @Morgan moves out of the room, leaving the door slightly ajar as it was
(Isiah) **As he gets to the corridor with the Music Room he hears a dreadful sound, or rather a stream of dreadful sounds. What is clearly supposed to be a rising scale on a violin is instead a string of out of time, out of tune notes. Every single one is either a little flat, a little sharp, played too hard or the wrong speed. It is distinctly unpleasant.  Claudia stands in the corridor guarding the door with a hint of a frown*
* Claudia spots his footsteps over the discord, watching him as he approaches
(Claudia) I hope she is better with a blade than a violin.
* @Morgan nods
(@Morgan) she is
(Claudia) *She gestures &guards will pass by here in the next minute or two&
(Claudia) She tells me she's never used that sword she's carrying, and hasn't practised at all since February *She looks a little unimpressed*
(@Morgan) That needs to be remedied I suppose
(Claudia) **There's a loud twanging noise that briefly halts the awful "music"
* Claudia nods
(Claudia) I need to know whether she'll be a help or hindrance should the situation arise
* @Morgan looks at Claudia
(@Morgan) I taught her
(Claudia) And she hasn't practiced for more than six months.
(Claudia) **the noise resumes. Though it seems impossible, she appears to have gotten worse*
(@Morgan) Alright, lets get some practice in place
(Claudia) What would you like to do? Shall I take her and have a look, just as I would with any student?
* @Morgan nods
(@Morgan) not a bad idea
(Claudia) **the predicted guards come past, nodding to them as they go
(Claudia) Courtyard?
* @Morgan nods
* Claudia speaks quietly
(Claudia) Did you do something Eisen to Isiah?
(@Morgan) DIdn't need to in the end
(Claudia) Alarice?
* @Morgan nods
(@Morgan) trying to convince people that she's obviously bewitched him 
* Claudia rolls her eyes
(Claudia) I knew he was arrogant but that is going too far
(@Morgan) he's trying to prove he's not just foolish
* Claudia shakes her head
(Claudia) Well that won't work
(Claudia) *the noise stops*
(Claudia) Are you coming along?
(@Morgan) May as well
(@Morgan) though I do have an appointment with someone in a while
* Claudia nods, knocking on the door in a little pattern. He hears a key turn in the lock and the door opens. Molly still has the violin and bow in her hands. She looks to Morgan with affection. Just below her left eye, she has a half inch cut
(@Morgan) the string?
* Claudia smiles
** You're now known as Molly
* Molly smiles
(Molly) Yes. I was lucky, it could have been worse. *She touches it with her fingertip, but doesn't heal it. Varick comes over* V: she didn't even cry!
* @Morgan nods
(@Morgan) good
* Molly watches Morgan
(Molly) Is all well?
(@Morgan) more or less, aye
* Molly smiles
(Molly) Are you coming in to play? There are guitars...
(@Morgan) hmmm, I'm not sure... Claudia was going to take Molly to practice with her sword
(Molly) V: Can we go and watch?
(@Morgan) providing Molly doesn't mind
(Molly) Of course not. Come along if you wish to
* @Morgan nods
(Molly) **They make their way into the huge rectangular courtyard, the rain stopped for now. On their way, the guards pass again and are given instructions not to be alarmed about the training in the yard. Varick goes to sit on a bench near  the well. Molly speaks quietly to Morgan whilst Claudia checks the ground for hazards
(Molly) I just hope I don't let you down,  liebling
(@Morgan) Its not about that blossom... its about keeping yourself safe
* Molly nods
(Molly) I know, liebes herz, but I always wish to do you proud regardless
(@Morgan) I'm sure you'll be fine
(Molly) **Claudia looks satisfied, and rapidly the assessment begins. Starting slower than she did with Die Dauerhaftigkeit's guards, Claudia rapidly escalates the pace and complexity,  just as Morgan has seen her do many times with many different students. Molly keeps pace as he would expect. She hasn't lost any of the skills he gave her. Sticking to the basics, the biggest difference is that she has lost some of her initial clumsiness, now better able to use her body. It's as if she has a better sense of and connection with her physicality. MTF
(Molly) When she gets to a little before the point he'd taught her to, Claudia suddenly increases the difficulty.  With a look of determination, Molly begins to use some of the easier but less common things she's seen Morgan, Claudia, HH and even Edward do. After a few more minutes, Claudia calls it to a finish. Her expression,  as always, reveals little of her opinions* C: Take a break for ten minutes. *Molly goes to sit with Varick who starts chatting to her. She looks happy, the way she does when she's been out riding fast*
* Molly motions him to one side
** You're now known as Claudia
* Claudia motions him to one side
* @Morgan walks to her
(Claudia) What do you think?
(@Morgan) She's remembered well
(Claudia) How long did you instruct her for?
(@Morgan) Couple of weeks before we left, couple of weeks onboard
* Claudia looks surprised
(Claudia) Did she take to it quickly in the beginning?
* @Morgan shrugs
(@Morgan) Not overly
(Claudia) She has potential. She needs to build that confidence and reduce the hesitancy. She'll never be a match for you, but pushed hard like at the end there, I reckon she could take Edward.
(@Morgan) thats no mean feat
* Claudia nods
(Claudia) You need to get her practising though. I'm happy to train her a bit when we go back to the ship as well, if you want.
* @Morgan nods
(@Morgan) good idea
(Claudia) You've done well.
(Claudia) **A servant comes out into the courtyard, looking at Morgan*
* @Morgan mutters to Claudia
(@Morgan) this looks ominous
(Claudia) My Lord, his Grace asks you to come to his office immediately
* @Morgan looks at Claudia
(@Morgan) told you
(Claudia) Take them back to the nursery?
* @Morgan nods
(@Morgan) but don't hurry them
* Claudia nods
(Claudia) Any other orders?
(@Morgan) just the usual
(Claudia) *the servant waits patiently. Claudia inclines her head. Molly watches him a moment with a smile, before being drawn back into Varick's conversation *
* @Morgan heads back into the house
(Claudia) **The servant leads Morgan to Faulk's office, where he's been several times. He's announced and then let in. Faulk is sat at his desk, a brandy decanter and two glasses on the left,  coffee and two cups on the right. Faulk smiles, though it doesn't meet his eyes*
** You're now known as Faulk
(Faulk) Take a seat please, Morgan.
* @Morgan does so
(Faulk) Would you like some brandy? It's made on my estate and aged in casks made of wood from the edge of schwarzenwald
* @Morgan watches Faulk
(@Morgan) no, thank you
(Faulk) Coffee then?
* @Morgan nods slowly
* Faulk pours. Though he mostly appears nonchalant, Morgan can perceive that he's carefully watching Morgan's demeanour. He puts a cup of coffee in front of Morgan before pouring brandy for himself. He sits back down.
(Faulk) Is everyone well?
(@Morgan) so far
* Faulk nods
(Faulk) Good. *He sips the brandy, eyes serious* I have just had a visit from Alarice's solicitor and his assistant
* @Morgan watches him
* Faulk watches him back
(Faulk) Alarice says she is with child
(@Morgan) of course she does
* Faulk nods. He hands Morgan a letter.
* @Morgan takes it
(Faulk) To his Grace the Eisenfurst
(Faulk) I hope you will permit my utterly frank and blunt letter. I would have preferred to speak to you tonight face to face, but the guards will only permit this visit from my solicitor.
(Faulk) I am with child. The baby was conceived in Sudlachenburg around May 28th. The father is my cousin, Veisgraf Koertig.
(Faulk) The intimacy that led to this conception was entirely consensual, I do not accuse my cousin of rape. He came to me just after his arrival, frustrated with his bride to be who was adamant that she would remain a virgin until they were wed. I did what I could to ease that burden for him.
(Faulk) Due to my increasing, I beg leniency from you. Though I understand the punishment for my actions could be execution, I ask that you spare the life of my child. The baby will be born in February.
(Faulk) With hopes of your infinite mercy
(Faulk) Alarice
* Faulk watches him, clearly concerned for him
* @Morgan sips his coffee, reading the letter again
* Faulk continues to watch him
(@Morgan) Who sent for her solicitor?
(Faulk) Which time?
(@Morgan) She only discovered her usual solicitor is dead recently... thats very quick to get another, especially in her current location
* Faulk nods
(Faulk) She sent for him last night
(@Morgan) What did she do, put a lantern in her window and hope some passing solicitor knew what it meant?
(Faulk) She asked the guards, I presume
(@Morgan) hey, guard, go find me a solicitor, since I don't have one...
* Faulk nods
(Faulk) I can not say, but I agree it looks suspicious
* @Morgan watches Faulk a moment
(Faulk) I will send someone to the guardhouse and ask last night's guards to come here
(@Morgan) I've asked for one of the guards to be removed
* Faulk frowns
(Faulk) Asked _who_?
(@Morgan) Isiah. It occurred to me while I was talking with him a while ago
* Faulk nods slowly
(Faulk) Why?
(@Morgan) Because he's your wife's nephew... and Alarice's second cousin, putting him in exactly the position I warned about
(@Morgan) and now... this.
* Faulk frowns once more
(Faulk) Alright. I don't entirely like things being done behind my back, but I can understand your reasoning.
* @Morgan tilts his head slowly
(@Morgan) If it were behind your back, you would not know of it. 
* Faulk watches him
(Faulk) I didn't,  until right now
(@Morgan) and you wouldn't, if it were behind your back... 
(@Morgan) unless of course your asking for my input on security was lipservice
* Faulk sips his brandy
* @Morgan sips his coffee, watching faulk over the rim of the cup
(Faulk) It was not lip service
* Faulk rings a bell, staying quiet whilst waiting for the servant. He gives instructions for the previous nights guards, plus another person called Jann,  to be brought immediately. The servant goes.
(Faulk) And Isiah agreed to follow your request?
(@Morgan) surprisingly
* Faulk looks unsurprised. Then he frowns, looking at the letter in Morgan's hands
(Faulk) And that?
(@Morgan) Do you need confirmation or are you genuinely unsure?
(Faulk) I need confirmation that she is not with child. I need no confirmation to know the possible child is not yours.
(@Morgan) Thank you, you'd be surprised how important that is. How squeamish are you?
* Faulk laughs
(Faulk) I was a farmer long before I was an Eisenfurst.
(@Morgan) if a cow gets pregnant in may, she doesn't bleed in june... Alarice, however...
* Faulk nods
* @Morgan looks at the ceiling briefly
(@Morgan) third week of june, in fact
(Faulk) I believe your wife mentioned something about human and animal fertility cycles being different when you both came to warn me what a disaster marrying them would be
* @Morgan nods
(@Morgan) she's spent some time with someone who knew it well I believe
* Faulk looks thoughtful
(Faulk) Do you know she definitely bled? Did you hear it from her maids?
(@Morgan) She told me father she needed to retire because of womanly issues...
* Faulk nods slowly again
(Faulk) So she may have lied?
(@Morgan) its unlikely... she suffers badly at those times, and she was definitely pale... it should be noted that she suffers horribly with morning sickness when she is with child... 
(Faulk) Would that be the same even with a different sire?
(@Morgan) I would have thought so
* Faulk nods. He takes a minute to finish his brandy before speaking
(Faulk) She clearly intends to cause as much disruption as possible.
* @Morgan nods
(@Morgan) I think you need to rein in Isiah a little
* Faulk nods
(Faulk) I will.
(@Morgan) he's got an idea in his head to prove her beguiling him was witchcraft...
* Faulk sighs
(Faulk) That is not going to happen. He was a fool, and I was a fool, and the only one who saw through her was you.
(@Morgan) I found the owner of cloak that was left in Sudlachenburg
(Faulk) Did you?
(@Morgan) I did... I'm nothing if not persistent. Dieter, I think his name is... your son had sent him to get an engagement ring for my cousin... a while before they disappeared, before she made a play for me, before she'd stopped dallying with a ships captain
* Faulk looks shocked
(Faulk) So Isiah _knew_ what he was doing.
* Faulk pours more brandy, offering some to Morgan
* @Morgan declines, sipping his coffee
(@Morgan) well, he knew some of what he was doing at least
(Faulk) He told me it was a spur-of-the-moment decision whilst drunk.
(@Morgan) I find that assertion suspect
* Faulk waves his hand
(Faulk) He's always been a stupid drunk and susceptible to manipulative women. He had a mistress of similar temperament and it ended badly
(@Morgan) and she is a very clever woman
* Faulk nods slowly
(Faulk) I had not realised quite the levels she'd stoop to until I read that *He nods at the letter in Morgan's hand*
(@Morgan) Her own sister warned me that she was crazy
(Faulk) Do you think the marriage to Isiah was his stupidity,  or her scheming?
(@Morgan) yes
* Faulk just nods
(Faulk) She's a dangerous adversary who appears to have schemed to damage the Konigsreich, as well as everything else. *He looks appraisingly, then appears to come to a decision* I want you to work with my head of security as an equal on this. That will mean being involved in all investigations and actions, both here and in the town.
(Morgan) For how long?
(Faulk) Until your father arrives, initially.
(Morgan) initially?
(Faulk) If she is indeed with child, I cannot have her punishment enacted until she is delivered
(Morgan) With respect, we have plans that do not include staying here until some phantom baby does or does not arrive
(Faulk) Then let us hope we can find a way to prove she is not increasing
(Morgan) if that is your wish, your grace, I will of course comply
* Faulk frowns deeply
(Faulk) It is not the command of an Eisenfurst, Morgan.
(Morgan) You're making it sound that way
* Faulk looks solemn
(Faulk) Then I apologise.
(Faulk) I suspect your insight on how Alarice works, and experience of security will be very useful. I want to protect my Konigsreich.  If she can manipulate my own son to lie to me, what other damage could she have done, or still do?
(Morgan) Whats my remit?
(Morgan)  <Faulk> Working with my head of security.  Investigate, give commands, throw my name around *He smiles a little* But Alarice needs to stay alive.
(Morgan)  * Morgan nods
(Morgan)  <Morgan> I suspect I can do that
* Faulk nods
(Faulk) I understand that it is a big favour to ask
* Morgan shrugs
(Morgan) it is what it is
(Faulk) That is why it is the request of a friend in need, not the command of an Eisenfurst.  I wouldn't have been able to leave my wife if it was just the first
(Morgan) You understand their safety comes above all else to me?
* Faulk looks at him intently
(Faulk) Of course.  There is nothing I would not have done or given if it could have saved her. The whole Konigsreich could have gone up in flames and I'd have still rejoiced about it.
* Morgan nods
(Morgan) hopefully it won't come to that
(Faulk) No...
* Faulk continues to watch him closely
(Faulk) But if it comes to it, and you have to choose between your duty to me, and saving your wife,  you pick her. That _is_ an order.
(Morgan) One that you didn't need to give, but I appreciate it all the same
(Faulk) I know. *he sips his brandy*
(Faulk) I'll send for you when he arrives.
* Morgan nods, finishing his coffee
(Morgan) I have an appointment I have to keep in the meantime
* Faulk looks at the clock. It's half after eleven.
(Faulk) I expect he'll be here around one.
* Morgan nods, standing up
(Morgan) I assume you'll let your head of security know that I'm not just some noble throwing his weight around?
(Faulk) Of course
* Faulk goes back to his paperwork, leaving Morgan to make his way wherever he goes next
* Morgan heads up to the nursery
(Faulk) **No one is outside*
* Morgan tries the door
(Faulk) **It's locked** C: Who is it?
(Morgan) its me
(Faulk) C:*She lets him in, then relocks the door. Molly and Varick are sat at the table. He is drawing, she's drinking yet another cup of tea*
(Faulk) C: *She speaks quietly* alright?
* Morgan nods slightly
(Morgan) Not quite what I expected
(Faulk) C: No?
(Morgan) No. I'll tell you later
(Faulk) *Molly watches them with a smile* Tea, liebling?
(Morgan) please, blossom
(Faulk) *Varick looks up from his drawing briefly before resuming it.*
(Faulk) C: &Orders?&
(Morgan) &keep them safe&
(Faulk) C: *She nods slightly, and moves away. She takes her own cup off the mantlepiece*
** You're now known as Molly
(Molly) Are you staying, my love?
* Morgan nods
(Morgan) for a while
* Molly smiles warmly, handing him the cup
(Molly) I am glad to hear it. *her voice becomes quieter, and she speaks avalon* I've missed you
* Morgan takes it
(Molly) ¥Was everything well with his Grace?¥
(Morgan) $aye. He's asked that I work with his head of security$
* Molly smiles
(Molly) That is good, is it not?
(Molly) + ¥¥
(Morgan) $ he's finally realising how dangerous she is... she's now claiming to be with child$
* Molly tries hard not to laugh
(Molly) ¥That is ridiculous!¥
(Morgan) $ it gets worse... she claims its mine $
* Molly rolls her eyes, shaking her head, and sighs
(Molly) ¥That is even more ridiculous! ¥
(Morgan) $ I can't tell if she's getting desperate or more devious $
* Molly looks thoughtful
(Molly) ¥That depends I think, on what her aim is. If it were me, I would say it was his legitimate grandchild.¥
* Molly taps her thumb to her fingertips as she did when counting for her sewing list earlier
(Morgan) $ regardless, it looks like we'll be here a while longer than planned $
* Molly 's nose wrinkles
(Molly) ¥Because she's supposedly carrying your child?¥
(Morgan) $ no, because his grace wants my help with it all $
* Molly nods slowly
(Molly) ¥When did she make this allegation?¥
(Morgan) $ today... I've got the letter in my pocket $
* Molly frowns
(Molly) Can I see it?
* Morgan nods, handing it over
* Molly reads it slowly
* Molly frowns with disbelief, until part way through where she shakes her head, trying not to laugh. She finishes reading it before handing it back
(Molly) ¥Well then... I am not even sure where to start with that!¥
* Molly watches his expression a moment,  obviously trying to read him
(Morgan) $ You can smell the crazy on that one $
* Molly smiles, nodding
(Molly) ¥Adamant is _not_ how I'd have described it!¥
* Molly becomes more serious
(Molly) ¥Does his Grace believe it?¥
(Morgan) $ Not for a second $
(Molly) ¥Good. *She looks concerned, frowning slightly* were you worried that I would?¥
(Morgan) $ No, I can't say I was $
* Molly smiles warmly
(Molly) ¥I'm glad to hear that. Does he believe she is with child?¥
* Morgan shrugs
(Morgan) $ its possible she is, but much more recently than that.... though I suspect its a ruse $
* Molly nods
(Molly) She would only have missed one course by now, even if she had conceived at the beginning of July
(Molly) ¥¥+
(Molly) ¥And she would already be very sick and tired¥
* Molly looks thoughtful
(Molly) ¥There are a few ways to find out...¥
(Morgan) $ oh?$
(Molly) ¥There are two ways that are too dangerous, one that is potentially fatal, and three easier ones¥
* Molly watches his reaction
(Morgan) $the potentially fatal one is ruled out as per the wishes of his grace... $
* Molly nods
(Molly) ¥The easier ones would be preferable¥
(Morgan) $most likely$
(Molly) ¥What I would do first is speak to the maids who wash her clothes and sheets. Maids know _everything_¥ *She smiles broadly*
* Morgan nods
(Molly) ¥Then I would go through all her things, looking for...well, things that would indicate it,  as well as any diary where she may have noted the days. Another option would be using wheat and barley to check ((this is the method Otto said Dietlinde had used at the end))
(Morgan) $ Now those are not bad ideas$
* Molly smiles warmly
(Molly) ¥One lives but to serve and please you, my Lord¥
* Morgan smiles
(Molly) * Varick comes over,  interrupting them(Molly) Molly) * Varick comes over,  interrupting them
(Molly) *Varick brings them a piece of paper, handing it to Morgan* I did a new drawing! *it appears to be several violins, all screaming or crying*
(@Morgan) So you did my young friend... its very good
* Molly looks intrigued
(Molly) V: *he looks pleased with the praise*
* Molly moves closer to Morgan looking at  the drawing. She laughs
(Molly) (Eisen) Oh dear, was it that dreadful?!
(Molly) *Varick nods rapidly,  as Molly looks to Morgan with a little smile * Shearing sheep, driving carts, making souffles, and now playing violin. Alas, these are the things I cannot do well
(@Morgan) There are worse things to be bad at
* Molly watches his expression a moment,  trying to see how serious or solemn he is
(Molly) There is an irony, of course *She smiles slightly *
(@Morgan) oh?
(Molly) Bows, liebling *She smiles playfully* of the violin _and_ archery varieties.
(@Morgan) I'm not bad with a bow... its once the arrow gets involved that there are issues
(Molly) *Varick's eyes light up, and he scampers back to the table to draw again. She laughs
(Molly) (Avalon) I should imagine you could do quite a lot of damage with just the bow...
(@Morgan) $If the need arises, aye$
* Molly sips her tea, blushing somewhat
(Molly) ¥So you will be downstairs working for the remainder of the day?¥
(@Morgan) I suspect I'll be moving people around today... though I have a meeting with Mina Hapsburg this afternoon
* Molly 's eyes widen
(Molly) Do you know what you'll say? What said her father?
(@Morgan) $That he'll consider it providing she knows what happened$
* Molly winced, eyes filling with concern. She searches his expression
(Molly) How do you feel about that?
(@Morgan) I'm not entirely sure
* Molly nods slowly
(Molly) Would it be easier if she came when things are... less tense?
(@Morgan) possibly, but thats not how its going to be
* Molly looks worried for him
(Molly) Can I aid you at all?
* @Morgan shakes his head
(@Morgan) I don't think so
(Molly) Just stay here and safe?
* @Morgan nods
(@Morgan) absolutely
* Molly smiles softly
(Molly) I will keep myself, and Varick, safe for you, as always
(@Morgan) $A certain Graf may be about to come into some issues$
* Molly looks intrigued, eyes lighting up in the way they always used to at gossip
(Molly) ¥Oh? Why?¥
(@Morgan) $He had a ring made for their engagement before she tried her luck with me... and told his father that it was a spur of the moment decision to run away with her, so he's not been terribly truthful
* Molly inhales sharply, then sighs whilst shaking her head
(Molly) ¥That is rather... unwise.¥
* @Morgan nods
* Molly shoots him a brief grin
(Molly) ¥I'm starting to appreciate the finer points of your drowning suggestion more and more¥
* @Morgan nods
* Molly sighs
(Molly) ¥I resented her for trying to ensnare you, but I could at least understand her reasonings of love, or lust, or a desire to create a family with you. But to do so whilst preparing a future with the Graf is just unfathomable¥
(@Morgan) $ No, its not at all... she's been playing everyone off at the same time $
* Molly frowns
(Molly) ¥But why? Why destroy so many people's happiness?¥
(@Morgan) $Because hers comes above all others$
* Molly sips her tea, eyes thoughtful beneath her furrowed brow
(Molly) ¥I sat for hours with her whilst She cried over her late husband. Not for a second did I perceive any deception there. She was the perfect picture of grief
* @Morgan nods
(@Morgan) $shes very good$
* Molly smile becomes rueful
(Molly) ¥ She knew that it would work to make us feel soft towards her, that we'd bend to her will if we thought grief her motivator?
(@Morgan) Probably
(Molly) ¥And yet she knew all along, through every tear and every minute of my sympathising,  that she had done what she did¥
* @Morgan nods
* Molly 's eyes suddenly widen, looking at him. Her words are direct, rapid
(Molly) ¥The ice got him! Not "Das Eis", but the ice! Eye, Cee,  Eee!¥
* @Morgan nods
(@Morgan) makes sense now
(Molly) ¥How did I not see that?!¥
(@Morgan) $its not the most obvious thing really$
* Molly smiles
(Molly) ¥perhaps I am just becoming soft-minded¥
(@Morgan) I doubt it
(Molly) ¥perhaps I ought to be practising puzzles daily, as well as my melee skills?¥ *She giggles*
(@Morgan) I used to know someone who was convinced that would make him smarter... pity he solved the same puzzle every day
* Molly laughs
(Molly) ¥That is unfortunate¥
* Molly looks at him earnestly
(Molly) ¥I did practise, to begin with. But when you were late back, I just couldn't bear it anymore ¥
(@Morgan) $ I tend to just hit things that require solving $
* Molly smiles
(Molly) ¥I suppose that is why we make such a good team ¥
* Molly watches Varick a moment, expression turning troubled
(Molly) ¥How on Theah are we going to protect him from what is likely to happen?¥
(@Morgan) $ I'm working on that $
* Molly watches him
(Molly) ¥I worry for him, for his future. He doesn't deserve to go through life with so much gossip following him¥
* @Morgan nods
(@Morgan) $I'll overshadow him in that respect at least $
(Molly) ¥ I don't understand¥
(@Morgan) Gossip follows me rather readily, so I'd imagine I'll take some of the spotlight away
* Molly smiles slightly
(Molly) ¥Very true, dear heart¥
* Molly studies him closely, eyes intense, taking in his features
(Molly) ¥You will be careful,  won't you? There is no point keeping myself safe if some awful harm comes to you¥
(@Morgan) $ Of course I will $
* Molly nods, swallowing hard, eyes downcast
(Molly) ¥Good. I could not bear losing you¥
* Molly smiles warmly
(Molly) ¥Which, of course, you already know
* @Morgan nods
(Molly) *Varick returns with another drawing, just as the clock strikes 12, leaving him only an hour before the head of security is due, and two before Mina is.
* @Morgan looks at it
(Molly) **the drawing is of Morgan and Molly being chased by Bows of the ribbon variety, the ends snaking around their ankles
* Molly looks with a laugh, then pours some tea. There's a knock at the door.