------------------------------ Logging started for Blitzed:#7thseaic on Thursday, 17 September 2020 11:09:32 British Summer Time ------------------------------ ** You have joined #7thseaic (Molly) **It is quiet as he makes his way back to the nursery, and he passes no staff. He does notice the folded note from Varick to Molly in his pocket as he climbs the stairs that Edward sat and prayed on for an hour * @Morgan opens the note (Molly) It has a large heart on it, and says "Molly, this is how I feel when I see you" * @Morgan smiles, tucking it back in his pocket * Molly and Marta are nowhere to be seen, but he can hear them talking in the bathroom quietly * @Morgan listens to make sure there is no problem (Molly) **they are talking about whether her hair is dry enough yet * @Morgan sets about pouring some blokners (Molly) **There's plenty of alcohol, plus a pot of fragranced tea that no longer seems to be steaming (Molly) **On the table, a large stack of sealed letters remains * @Morgan takes a glass of blokners, looking at the letters (Molly) **They are all carefully named by Molly's hand, to her parents, his parents, Faulk, Stef, Mina, Inga, Claudia, Heinzharold, Evie, Varick (now), Varick (when he's older), and the five for him labelled with the categories Marta told him. She must have spent most of the day writing between the pain * @Morgan shakes his head slightly before going to sit down * Molly comes out of the bathroom. Her hair is well dried, left relaxed and loose. She just wears a thick shift barefoot again. She is still pale, but no worse than when he went to dinner. She is encouraging Marta to get some rest as they pass through into the room, neither noticing him (Molly) Marta: You will continue to eat and drink and rest, yes? If you feel faint again, lie down. * Molly nods (Molly) I will. Goodnight, and thank you so much for today. *Marta curtsies, and as she is going towards her room she spots Morgan* (Molly) Marta: * she curtsies, obviously glad he's back* Goodnight, my Lord * @Morgan nods to her (@Morgan) goodnight Marta (Molly) Marta *she goes off* * Molly comes over to him, kneeling at his feet to watch him (Molly) How are you, liebes herz? * @Morgan sips his drink (@Morgan) worn, blossom. How are you? * Molly looks to think about it (Molly) At the moment, woolly-headed. I do not think I could solve even a basic riddle right now * @Morgan nods (@Morgan) to be expected I suppose (Molly) Marta says I should expect a few days of being a little less sharp until my blood replenishes it's blood supply * @Morgan nods * Molly rests her cheek on his knee, continuing to watch him (Molly) Aside from that, my stomach muscles hurt, and I have some... soreness (@Morgan) I would imagine that is also completely normal in this instance * Molly nods (Molly) Very much so, not dissimilar to how it would be after a birth * @Morgan nods (Molly) Do you wish to sit out here, or would you rather move into the bedroom? (@Morgan) whichever is most comfortable for you (Molly) The bedroom then, so I can lie down * Molly smiles a little * @Morgan nods (@Morgan) good idea * Molly stands up, and he can see a little light-headedness from the sudden change of position * @Morgan stands to support her * Molly leans against him a little, but from a wish to rather than a necessity (Molly) I am fine, liebling (@Morgan) you are sure? (Molly) Yes. Changing position makes me a little faint, but it is to be expected having lost so much blood * @Morgan nods * Molly moves away and pours some of the tea (Molly) We can expect that to mostly be resolved in a day or two * @Morgan nods (@Morgan) good * Molly tucks all the letters under her arm, and carries the tea carefully to the bedroom, asking him to bring the candle * @Morgan picks up the candle, following her * Molly takes a minute to get settled, taking a tiny amount of cake on a saucer, and sits on top of the covers. She watches him (Molly) **the letters have been deposited in their trunk * @Morgan takes a mouthful of his blokners before setting it down and taking his coat off (@Morgan) Oh... I forgot... I have a note here for you * Molly looks intrigued, opening it. She smiles, tracing the heart shape with a finger (Molly) My dear little Mauschen. * @Morgan smiles * Molly folds it, placing it on the bedside table (Molly) How has he been today? (@Morgan) Well behaved I believe... though he did have my father hell bent on punishing him earlier * Molly frowns deeply (Molly) He'd better not (@Morgan) Varick had defied him somehow and ran through the house trying to find me (@Morgan) he'd seen the Eisenfurstin and needed to pass a message to me (Molly) When did he start seeing her? ((He had mentioned it a day or so ago)) (@Morgan) a day or two ago * Molly looks thoughtful (Molly) His talent is developing * @Morgan nods (@Morgan) he came to tell me that she was trying to help me and I shouldn't be scared (@Morgan) and that he should have chocolate cake * Molly sips the tea, nose wrinkling at it, before smiling (Molly) She wanted him to have cake? * @Morgan looks at her, and then the tea (@Morgan) I got the feeling he was taking advantage of the situation * Molly laughs (Molly) Good for him * Molly gestures to the tea (Molly) It isn't too bad hot, but it's unpleasant lukewarm * @Morgan concentrates on the tea for a moment (@Morgan) try that (Molly) **it starts steaming slightly. She laughs (Molly) What would I do without you, liebes herz? (@Morgan) drink cold tea, probably, like a savage * Molly sips it, nodding (Molly) I would have to. Unbearable, really. (@Morgan) Just not acceptable (Molly) It was kind of her to help. But we cannot be her unfinished business? * @Morgan shrugs (@Morgan) It is troubling the Eisenfurst, after what happened in his chapel today, he believes she is still here * Molly smiles (Molly) He has a good instinct then (@Morgan) Frankly, the second I walked in there I felt watched. It troubles him that is not at rest. * Molly nods sadly (Molly) I can imagine that would be distressing? * @Morgan scratches his head (@Morgan) If she stays in the chapel and the vaticine belief is thats where Theus is... maybe its not as sad as we think * Molly nods slowly, then sighs (Molly) Normally I would have some useful thoughts on the matter * @Morgan sips his drink * Molly watches his expression and body language to try to discover his mood (@Morgan) We'll just have to see what comes of that I suppose * @Morgan sighs, shaking himself out of his preoccupation (Molly) How is everyone else? (@Morgan) relieved * Molly smiles (Molly) I am glad. I am sorry to have troubled anyone * @Morgan shakes his head (@Morgan) it was not your doing blossom, so there is no apology to be made (@Morgan) Mina would like to see you before she leaves tomorrow * Molly frowns a little (Molly) She is leaving already? (@Morgan) Edward does not want her here with what is to come (Molly) What does _she_ want? * @Morgan shrugs * Molly looks thoughtful (Molly) I would like to see her. It's possible we will not be here for their wedding * @Morgan nods (@Morgan) I'll see to it * Molly watches him (Molly) Did you want to be in Eisen for it, liebling? (@Morgan) I've not really thought about it. I've had a bit much on my mind today * Molly nods sadly (Molly) It has been a hard day * @Morgan nods (@Morgan) I've asked Stef to spend some time with you, to help you deal with everything... Marta suggested a woman ear might be easier for you * Molly nods slowly (Molly) I would like to see her. I am not sure I can start to deal with some of the worst bits with her yet, but I would be glad of her company * @Morgan nods * @Morgan sighs heavily (Molly) What's wrong, liebling? (@Morgan) I believe the execution will be saturday. (Molly) That will be hard on you? * @Morgan shrugs (@Morgan) I'm more concerned with you... will you want to be there? * Molly sips her tea (Molly) I am not sure. I hadn't thought about it yet (@Morgan) and tomorrow I must speak with Varick to find out if he wishes to see her * Molly frowns (Molly) I do not want him to. (@Morgan) Nor do I. I have no doubt whatever she says to him will be venomous. (Molly) That is exactly my thought too (Molly) Should we forbid it? (@Morgan) I'm not sure that would be helpful (Molly) Perhaps we can persuade him to write to her instead? * @Morgan nods (@Morgan) Edward has offered to speak with him and tell him what he remembers of Natasha * Molly looks thoughtful (Molly) I suppose he and she must have crossed paths, considering the time of the affairs (@Morgan) He remembers her quite well apparently * Molly raises an eyebrow (Molly) Does he? (@Morgan) not _that_ much * Molly smiles (Molly) Probably best. Given how things seem to happen to us, I could live without Varick being Edwards secret love child! * @Morgan nods slowly * Molly watches him closely (Molly) You have concerns? (@Morgan) No, but something has just occurred to me... when Edward discovered I am Freaiarr because Alarice had no child... he's probably seeing that as something to blame himself for, given what happened. His child would have inherited it. * Molly seems to be struggling to process this a little, taking her time * @Morgan finishes his glass, going to refill it (Molly) The baby she did not have? (@Morgan) The one he told her to get rid of * Molly nods (Molly) Do you think he regrets telling her to do that? * @Morgan nods (@Morgan) for many reasons * Molly looks sad a moment (Molly) Things would have been very different had he not, I suppose * @Morgan nods * Molly sighs (Molly) Have you spoken to him about his feelings about Innesbruck? (@Morgan) It was only a short time ago, and I've only now realised whats upset him, so no. * Molly nods (Molly) Will you? * Molly sips the tea (@Morgan) At some point. We've had a discussion that it was not me he was angry with, so the groundwork for it is there (Molly) Why would he be angry with you? * @Morgan shrugs (@Morgan) There is still tension between us, so I wanted to get it as sorted as I could (Molly) Do you think that tension will ever be overcome? (@Morgan) I hope so * Molly smiles (Molly) Good (Molly) I was concerned for what would happen between the two of you if I had... *she trails off, eyes sad* (@Morgan) I genuinely have no idea... even Faulk was concerned that I might go completely mad (Molly) You would have had more support this time * @Morgan nods (@Morgan) and Varick * Molly nods (Molly) I hoped he would have been enough to keep you going * @Morgan nods * Molly watches his face (Molly) I was very worried for you (@Morgan) I wasn't (Molly) No? **her expression becomes neutral* (@Morgan) All I could think of was you... and whichever task I happened to have in front of me at the time * Molly smiles softly (Molly) Keeping busy is all you can really do (@Morgan) Are you feeling spry enough to hear something of a mystery? * Molly smiles (Molly) Always (@Morgan) Where to start... When I was fulfilling my oath to Marchelline, I noticed the shard of Dracheneisen getting hot... did I tell you about that? * Molly looks intrigued (Molly) No you did not * @Morgan glances downwards (@Morgan) Where is your ring? * Molly suddenly looks evasive and guilty (Molly) Ah. There's an issue. (@Morgan) That being? * Molly doesn't meet his eyes (Molly) I think I have damaged it (@Morgan) oh? (Molly) I am trying to soak it in salt water, but... *she looks even guiltier* (@Morgan) blossom.... * Molly looks up submissively (Molly) Yes, liebes herz? (@Morgan) tell me (Molly) I think it has absorbed some of the blood from earlier (@Morgan) Maybe thats what it is supposed to do... * Molly gets up, going to a cup before removing the ring, drying it on her shift, and sighing heavily (Molly) But then it would have done it before, when other veisgrafins and grafins were in danger * Molly brings it to him (@Morgan) Maybe it did... maybe it cleared. Maybe they were not in as much danger... Father says it only protected against an attempt on their life twice before... * Molly nods slowly. She shows him (Molly) Maybe. * @Morgan looks at it (Molly) **In the very depths of the stone is a small red occlusion, which spreads out like sun beams in the centre third. It is beautiful, though very different. It does not look like it has absorbed through the surface or reverse, it looks naturally occurring * @Morgan shakes his head (@Morgan) No, blossom, thats not your doing (Molly) But it was not like that when I rang for you (@Morgan) When you are feeling better, we'll look at it closely together, but that did not get absorbed. Its as though it just grew in the centre * Molly nods slowly (Molly) Should I wear it? (@Morgan) I think so (@Morgan) my superstition isn't as great as my fathers, but I see no reason to tempt fate in this instance * Molly puts it back on the finger she has been wearing it on for the two months of their marriage (Molly) Not when it was as close as that today... * Molly watches him solemnly (@Morgan) indeed. Father asked me to explain quite how close it was... I think I scared him. * @Morgan smiles slightly (@Morgan) Edward spent an hour sat just down the hall praying for you (Molly) If he is scared by what you told him, he would hate what Marta told me (@Morgan) oh? (Molly) Normally she stays in the room for the whole half an hour so she can immediately stem the flow if there's a haemorrhage... *she watches his expression* (@Morgan) Why didn't she? * Molly looks at him solemnly (Molly) Because if I had lost any blood at all, she would have been unable to save me regardless * @Morgan nods (@Morgan) She is convinced she was going to lose you * Molly nods (Molly) I am not sure how you didn't, in truth (Molly) She* (@Morgan) I'm not sure she is either (Molly) I knew that when I rang you, the chances of me surviving, even with the loss of ability to make you a father again was in the single digits... * @Morgan nods (Molly) And then, during the pushing part, the bleeding was so bad that even a single digit was being optomistic (@Morgan) and yet... (Molly) And yet somehow, despite having maybe half a minute before it was past the point of no return, something miraculous happened * @Morgan nods slightly (Molly) It was without a doubt the most terrifying thing I have ever experienced * @Morgan nods (@Morgan) I've never felt quite so helpless * Molly takes his empty hand, squeezing it (Molly) I cannot even imagine what you have been through today (@Morgan) I'd rather not go through that again * Molly nods (Molly) Hopefully you will never have to * @Morgan nods (Molly) Marta says I must never, ever take Pennyroyal, no matter the circumstances * @Morgan nods (@Morgan) Does that make any difference? * Molly looks thoughtful (Molly) I... I am not sure (@Morgan) Perhaps we'll have to use other... methods to avoid pregnancy until we are ready * Molly looks for how serious or playful he is being * @Morgan looks serious (Molly) The herbs I take normally are of no danger to me. Marta recommends carrying on with them as normal... * @Morgan nods (@Morgan) What would Pennyroyal be taken for? (Molly) In very tiny doses, it can be used for regulating the courses, though I do not need that. Otherwise, only ending a pregnancy * @Morgan shrugs (@Morgan) then it should not be an issue * Molly frowns a little (Molly) But if I was raped? Or whilst we are travelling? (@Morgan) I think you're borrowing trouble thinking about that right now * Molly smiles (Molly) Most likely. Though at present the prospect of enduring that pain a further eight times to give you children is a daunting thought in itself! * @Morgan shrugs (@Morgan) six then * Molly winces (Molly) The bridal plate says eight * @Morgan smiles (@Morgan) very well, if you insist * Molly smiles back (Molly) Eight. But we behave as if we are trying to create an army * @Morgan raises an eyebrow (@Morgan) eight Koertigs practically is an army * Molly smiles (Molly) Ten armies then. * @Morgan nods (Molly) Assuming you would still wish to, after seeing me in that state *this time the smile doesn't reach her eyes* (@Morgan) always (@Morgan) Though perhaps not in a stable... I believe I have hay where it does not belong * Molly laughs (Molly) Oh really? (@Morgan) well, had would be more accurate * Molly nods (Molly) I'm not sure I could manage it tonight, I am afraid * @Morgan smiles slightly (@Morgan) Marta has already spoken to me about that (@Morgan) There is no hurry * Molly sits on the edge of the bed (Molly) What did she say? (@Morgan) That you'd find it painful and suggests I don't ask it of you * Molly nods slowly (Molly) I suspect I probably would (@Morgan) Not something that needs to be considered (Molly) I am not sure that would matter to most husbands though * @Morgan shrugs (@Morgan) I'm am decidedly not most husbands * Molly smiles (Molly) I am glad of that, I would not want most husbands (@Morgan) Too much work, really (Molly) I am happy with the one I have * Molly smiles warmly up at him (@Morgan) You must be to have fought so hard today * Molly bows her head (Molly) I wanted to be string enough to do it without you having to see me so distressed (Molly) Strong* * @Morgan shrugs (@Morgan) we overcame it together, as we do many things * Molly nods (Molly) I wanted your last memories of me to be me being light hearted and adoring, not for them to be my cries of pain (@Morgan) Not something we have to think on any longer blossom * Molly 's solemnity returns, tears in her eyes (Molly) No, I know * Molly stands up, moving back to the top part of the bed where the tea and cake it. The light headedness is still visible, but gives her no pause. She sits back down (Molly) It was kind of Edward to pray for me for so long. When you see him, please pass on my gratitude. * @Morgan nods (@Morgan) I shall * Molly looks at the cake and sighs (@Morgan) What? (Molly) I know I must eat, but after the awfulness of lunchtime, I cannot say I welcome the thought of food (@Morgan) Is that the chocolate cake? (Molly) It is (@Morgan) It'll be worth it * Molly nods slowly (Molly) The maids were very kind. For about half an hour, they took it in turns to hold my hair back for me, and spoke soothingly to me (@Morgan) I rather like them (Molly) They are very funny. Their chatter reminded me of easier times * @Morgan nods (@Morgan) They were waiting downstairs as I came up, to check if we needed anything from them (@Morgan) They may have mentioned wearing a ballgown... * Molly smiles (Molly) They were enamoured with it, and it was a wonderful distraction for me between the pains for them to try it on and have fun, just as Evie and I would have * @Morgan nods * Molly looks thoughtful, watching how he is stood and how tense he looks * @Morgan looks fairly relaxed, given the day he's had (Molly) I want an advance on my allowance. (@Morgan) Because? (Molly) Because the three of them never once made me feel embarrassed or humiliated, despite all the blood and tears and dreadfulness, and I want to repay that kindness. (@Morgan) It does not need to come out of your allowance blossom * Molly smiles slightly (Molly) It's a lot of money, liebes herz (@Morgan) Well, you'd best pay for it then * @Morgan smiles slightly * Molly nods (Molly) If you will advance my allowance for the remainder of this year, and all of next year, I would be grateful *a quick bit of maths totals this to three hundred builders, a sizeable sum* (@Morgan) You wish to give them a hundred guilders each? * Molly 's chin tilts up a little, and a touch of determination appears in her expression (Molly) It will allow Ana to pay of her house, and Mia and Katherine to buy themselves a small house each (@Morgan) You seem to think I will be against this * Molly watches him, serious (Molly) It is a great deal of money. (@Morgan) I am aware of that * Molly smiles a little (Molly) I should warn you, I fully intend to wear your down with my wilfulness to achieve this if necessary (@Morgan) That is not necessary.... What about... if I advance you a hundred and fifty guilders, and put the other hundred and fifty in myself... I have just as much to be grateful for * @Morgan scratches his nose (@Morgan) I even bowed to them... _properly_ * Molly looks surprised (Molly) Did you? (@Morgan) I didn't know how else to show how much what they've done means to me * Molly blushes hard, though due to lack of spare blood is shows only a little on her cheeks (Molly) My life means so much? * @Morgan nods * Molly watches him a moment (Molly) Then you approve of the idea? * @Morgan nods (@Morgan) though I suspect if I didn't, my mind would get changed eventually * Molly smiles (Molly) Will it be a dreadful chore, being relentlessly persuaded by me, for the next fifty years? (@Morgan) That depends on whether or not you have me as conditioned as my mother has my father * Molly giggles (Molly) Would I aim to achieve such a thing? * @Morgan shrugs (@Morgan) apparently I'm more able to deal with a spirited wife than he is * Molly smiles (Molly) Perhaps I will make it my aim to test that most vigorously * @Morgan laughs (@Morgan) that wouldn't surprise me at all (Molly) I am sure you can find ways to make me behave... (@Morgan) perhaps * Molly watches him, then looks away (Molly) If you would prefer me to be more biddable, I will try (@Morgan) No, I would have you exactly as you are * Molly smiles (Molly) I am glad of that (Molly) And no, your father could certainly not handle a more obviously spirited wife (@Morgan) obviously being the key word * Molly nods (Molly) Your Mother's methods are very subtle and effective, on both him and you and Edward * @Morgan nods (@Morgan) and yet father in convinced she is quiet and biddable... * Molly smiles (Molly) That is why it is such genius * @Morgan nods (Molly) I should have employed such tactics with you in the stable yesterday, rather than being very, very frank *she smiles, obviously teasing( (@Morgan) No, I think your tactics worked just fine (Molly) I shall remember that for the future * Molly frowns a moment (Molly) You had a mystery for me? About the dracheneisen * @Morgan nods (@Morgan) so, it gets hot when I do... things to do with fire (Molly) Did it get hot with the tea? (@Morgan) No idea, its in my coat (Molly) That is strange. And you did that for the funeral pyre? (@Morgan) To quite an extent... so, since I was alone and not a great distance away... I went to the nieblungens compound to ask them about it * Molly looks surprised (Molly) Would they speak with you? * @Morgan nods (@Morgan) they took me into the compound, and we spoke about what was occurring... they took the shard and... well, spoke to it, and gave it back saying it should be much more restrained in future, and that it reacts to particular types of magic * Molly looks intrigued (Molly) You know what I am going to have to do once I am well, don't you? (@Morgan) See if yours works on it? (Molly) Indeed (@Morgan) I cant remember if he said it was fire magic that affected it or if it was more than one type. (@Morgan) I asked them why they spoke to it, and it seems it has its own sort of consciousness... * Molly frowns (@Morgan) it is alive but not alive... and when its been worked it is even less alive (Molly) This really is a mystery, liebes herz! (@Morgan) Thats not even the mysterious part yet * Molly laughs (Molly) It gets more mysterious (Molly) ? (@Morgan) much... They sent me back to the pyre as if they knew someone was coming, which someone was (@Morgan) and still that is not the very most mysterious part. * Molly nods, clearly fascinated (@Morgan) about four o clock, my fingers started to itch, like I was losing control of my... ability. So I went away from the house and set fire to some wood in the hopes it would calm down... * Molly nods slowly, almost distractedly (Molly) You were very distressed? * @Morgan nods (@Morgan) fairly, aye * Molly frowns very briefly (Molly) Go on (@Morgan) No, thats clearly sparked something (Molly) I am... troubled. I cannot decide if you are downplaying how you felt because you do not wish to upset or "burden" me (@Morgan) I'd managed to keep myself busy the whole day, and suddenly I ran out of things to do and my full attention was on the possibility of losing you. So yes, I was greatly distressed. (Molly) Thank you for being honest. I do not want you to shield me, liebes herz * @Morgan nods (Molly) Did the ability calm down? (@Morgan) once I'd set fire to the wood, aye, but the shard got warm, so I took it out... and sat there and tried to calm my mind... and everything became peaceful, and I was almost sure I could hear a murmuring (@Morgan) Thats when Claudia came to find me to see if I needed anything (Molly) And what happened to the murmuring? (@Morgan) it stopped, disappeared * @Morgan winks (@Morgan) and _that_ is not even the mysterious part * Molly laughs (Molly) You tease (@Morgan) Background information, blossom, you cant fully understand the magnitude of a situation unless you know the events around it... * Molly smirks (Molly) Yes, Lieutenant Koertig * @Morgan looks at her a moment before nodding * Molly frowns a little (@Morgan) Did you know the Nieblungen work from dawn until dusk? (Molly) No, I did not (@Morgan) They never miss a day, they work every day, dawn to dusk, some in the mines, many in the compound, smelting, working the ore et cetera (Molly) They do not have a church? * @Morgan shakes their head (@Morgan) No... every day * Molly nods (Molly) Alright (@Morgan) So, the mysterious part... * Molly nods, eager (@Morgan) four o'clock, they all down tools and disappear into the mine. No-one sees them for an hour. Its never happened before (Molly) Very, very strange. What are you thinking? (@Morgan) Ive absolutely no idea... what I do know, though, is when I was in the mine, I could hear that same murmuring. And I'm only the second person to be allowed into a mine. * Molly frowns (Molly) Who was the first? (@Morgan) They wouldn't tell me... and I don't just mean this mine... I mean _any_ mine * Molly nods (Molly) I always knew you were special * @Morgan shrugs (@Morgan) I'm at a total loss as to what it means (Molly) As am I, I am afraid (@Morgan) Give it a few days, you'll figure it out (Molly) You have a lot of faith in the power of my head, liebling! * @Morgan nods (@Morgan) Its saved me more than once, so yes, I do * @Morgan finishes his blokners * Molly watches to see if he tops up his glass again, clearly using it as a yardstick to measure his mood (Molly) That could be a mystery even beyond me * @Morgan puts his glass down (@Morgan) They do a good blokners here... not _as_ good as Sudlachenburg, mind... (Molly) Is much as good as in Sudlachenburg, really? *she smiles fondly* * @Morgan shrugs (@Morgan) you make a good point (Molly) I usually do * @Morgan nods (Molly) Did you need some time to get ready for bed? (Molly) Or do you need to be alone a little whikmlell (Molly) While first? * @Morgan shakes his head (@Morgan) just a moment to get undressed * Molly smiles, quickly eating the cake (Molly) Mmm... good. (@Morgan) Told you it would be worth it * @Morgan undresses * Molly watches him fondly (Molly) I am very happy, liebes herz (@Morgan) oh? (Molly) The little things bring so much more joy after such fear * @Morgan nods * Molly brushes off the crumbs, then removes her shift before sliding beneath the covers * @Morgan climbs into bed * Molly watches him (Molly) Marta says it's likely I will wake frequently over night, but I will try not to disturb you (@Morgan) disturb me as you wish blossom, sleep isn't something I'm used to getting anyway (Molly) I know, but after today you will need it (@Morgan) I'll manage * Molly smiles (Molly) Must you be so stubborn, liebling? * @Morgan thinks about it (@Morgan) generally speaking, yes * Molly nods (Molly) I suppose I can bear it then ** You are now disconnected (Software caused connection abort) ------------------------------ Logging started for Blitzed:#7thseaic on Thursday, 17 September 2020 15:12:29 British Summer Time ------------------------------ ** Reconnecting to irc.blitzed.org:6667… ** You have joined #7thseaic -NickServ- This nickname is registered. Please choose a different nickname, or identify via /msg NickServ identify . -NickServ- You are now identified for Molly. ** You are now disconnected ------------------------------ Logging started for Blitzed:#7thseaic on Thursday, 17 September 2020 20:49:11 British Summer Time ------------------------------ ** You have joined #7thseaic * Molly gazes at his face a moment, smiling softly (Molly) Are you ready for me to blow out the candle? * @Morgan nods (@Morgan) aye blossom * Molly turns away, blowing gently, darkness rushing in as the flame goes out. She starts speaking quieter (Molly) I am not fragile liebes herz. If you wish to hold me, you can * @Morgan moves over, wrapping his arms around her * Molly tucks herself against him, head under his chin, their skin touching in a myriad of places from her forehead to her toes. She exhales slowly, relaxing (Molly) Better * @Morgan nods (@Morgan) good * Molly finds his hand, interlinking her fingers with his (Molly) Whenever you are ready to talk about how you feel, I am here for you, as I always have been, and always will be. (@Morgan) I know blossom (Molly) I do not want you bottling things up and feeling unsupported * @Morgan nods (@Morgan) I'm fine blossom * Molly nods slowly (Molly) As you wish, liebling * Molly becomes quiet briefly (Molly) One of the strangest things that happened to me today was at lunchtime... (@Morgan) oh? (Molly) When I was so sick, I briefly lost track of where I was, because the memories of being so sick in the lodging house in Tawtock before I came to the Torrington Estate were so strong * @Morgan nods (Molly) I think it was being soothed in Eisen words that did it (@Morgan) That must have been disorientating (Molly) No, because when the doctor then and his wife and daughter cared for me, they spoke Eisen (@Morgan) I mean when you snapped out of it (Molly) Being able to breathe helped me reorientate quickly though. It seems I get myself into these scrapes all the time * @Morgan laughs quietly (@Morgan) you do rather (Molly) Perhaps this is part of having a destiny that cannot be foreseen? (@Morgan) Perhaps (Molly) You must be very tired, liebling (@Morgan) But if Alarice's is known, then her actions towards you should be... * Molly shrugs a little (Molly) One would assume so, I suppose. * @Morgan sighs (@Morgan) Not something I'm going to get my head around tonight (Molly) No. I think that is a hornets nest I would rather not kick really * @Morgan nods (Molly) For whatever reason, I am here, alive, and in your arms where I feel most like I belong * @Morgan nods (@Morgan) I'll take that * Molly presses a kiss over his heart, as she did just before the final push that ended the bleeding for good (Molly) You should sleep, liebling (@Morgan) I plan to shortly * Molly smiles in the darkness (Molly) You have something else planned before then? (@Morgan) I thought I'd hold you until you sleep (Molly) That's very sweet of you * Molly sits up a little, and carefully brings her lips to his, having to guess more in the dark * @Morgan returns her kiss gently * Molly smiles a little against his mouth before running her tongue along his lower lip briefly (@Morgan) sleep now blossom... * Molly murmurs (Molly) But another night? * @Morgan nods (@Morgan) aye * Molly settles back against his chest (Molly) Good night, my dearest one. If you need me, wake me. * @Morgan nods * Molly sighs softly, body relaxing against his. It takes less than a minute for her familiar sleep breathing to begin, and he can feel her heart beating strong and regular under his hand on her back. Her skin is warm on his, and she feels miraculously, blessedly alive as he holds her close * @Morgan listens to her breathe for a few minutes before settling to sleep himself (Molly) He slips into sleep and his nightmare as he has before in Faulk's house. He re-lives the wait, the fear, the pain, the pushing in full detail. Then Molly moves on command to sit beside him, the room tense, stifling, the scent of her shed blood is strong. He gazes at her, committing her features to memory, terrified he won't see them alive and animated again. Her lips pale further, and she frowns a little. (MTF) (Molly) "It's gotten so cold…". He glances with alarm at Marta, who is a sudden, panicked whirlwind of activity between Molly's thighs. His wife doesn't seem to notice, just looking at him. The shock and desperation feel like ice in his blood. "Molly, Blossom, please. Stay with me. I love you, endlessly." She smiles a little "And I you. But I am so very tired". (MTF) (Molly) He nods, chest tight. He looks at Marta. The look she gives him is like a knife in his heart. In dismay she shakes her head with utter resigned hopelessness. She crosses herself, and Molly's blood marks her head and dress like a scarlet anointing oil. He looks at Molly, pressing his lips to hers, knowing that now it really is the last time she will get to kiss him, then he tucks her head under his chin. (MTF) (Molly) He can do nothing for her, but he refuses to let the distress in his expression be the last thing she sees. She speaks soft, slow, sleepy, as she has done on so many nights and now never would again "We're on the Rose, and it's sunset…". He doesn't know how he finds the words when it feels like a panzerhand covered fist is wrapped around his throat, but he does (MTF) (Molly) "And I wrap my arms around you. The last rays of the sun are the colour of your hair. I love you, and will every single moment until we meet again, and-..." He hears the choke in his own voice, and the faintest whisper "Until then, Liebes herz…". (MTF) (Molly) Then she sighs softly, and becomes completely limp against him. And it hurts like the very devil himself, as Stef predicted. Chest. Gut. Throat. Left ear lobe. This last pain is what awakens him. (Done) * @Morgan brings his hand to his ear * Molly lets go of his ear * @Morgan looks at Molly (Molly) **he can see virtually nothing in the dark bedroom. She speaks quietly (Molly) It's alright, it was just a nightmare * @Morgan nods (@Morgan) I'm sorry, I didn't mean to wake you (Molly) I don't care about that! Are you alright? * @Morgan nods slightly (@Morgan) I think so * Molly moves her hand from near his ear to stroke his hair soothingly. Her voice is soft (Molly) It's been a while since I've seen you have a nightmare as bad as that (@Morgan) last nights wasn't exactly wonderful (Molly) You didn't almost kick me out of the bed last night * @Morgan nods (Molly) The Schattenmann again? * @Morgan shakes his head * Molly 's slow nod is hard to make out by the hint of moonlight coming through the window (Molly) Can I get you anything? * @Morgan sighs (@Morgan) No, blossom. I'll be alright * Molly continues to stroke his hair softly. She sighs softly (Molly) You are sure there is nothing I could get, or do, or anything? (@Morgan) It was a nightmare because of today, to be expected really (Molly) It does not surprise me at all. I expected either this or the other one, given what you have been through today * @Morgan nods * Molly seems undecided a minute before she moves to sit beside him, opening her arms to him (@Morgan) No blossom, you need rest (Molly) No. * Molly sounds firm, rather than amused * @Morgan gives in, moving into her arms * Molly brings his head over her heart, the strong beat rhythmic in his ear. She speaks quietly (Molly) I am here. I am fine. * @Morgan nods * Molly wraps her arms around him, kissing his crown (Molly) Just for once, stop worrying about protecting me and let me care for you. Please. (@Morgan) alright (Molly) Good. I don't think it's anywhere near dawn yet * @Morgan nods (Molly) You should try to sleep again (@Morgan) as should you (Molly) I will, if you will stay right there *he can't see her smile, but he can hear it in her quite voice, overlaid against the tattoo of her heartbeat * @Morgan nods (Molly) Good. *she kisses his crown again* Are you ready to sleep again, or do you want me to sing to you? (@Morgan) I'll try to sleep, and I want you to, also (Molly) Alright, liebling. I love you (@Morgan) I love you * Molly settles quietly, and he very quickly notices her heart rate slow slightly as she falls asleep again (Molly) **he falls asleep quickly also, and doesn't dream of anything. When she gently shakes him, he can sense hours have passed, and the less-dark sneaks through the window (Molly) Liebes herz, it's almost dawn * @Morgan nods, rolling out of bed * Molly unwraps her arms from him to let him, and they obviously had not moved. She sits up a little, watching him (Molly) How are you feeling now? * @Morgan nods (@Morgan) better * Molly smiles broadly (@Morgan) and you? (Molly) Tired, but no worse, and much, much happier for having been able to do something for you * Molly watches him as much as she can in the low light * @Morgan rolls his neck and shoulders before stretching, the familiar cracking and popping noise as he does so * Molly winces (Molly) Would you like me to fix that at some point, liebling? * @Morgan shakes his head (@Morgan) No... its part of who I am (Molly) It is not painful? (@Morgan) Nothing worth mentioning (Molly) As you wish. I don't suppose you could get me that glass and the jug of water? * @Morgan nods, fetching them over * Molly thanks him, pouring three glasses back to back and downing them all (@Morgan) Thirsty? (Molly) Very * @Morgan nods * Molly does the same with a fourth (Molly) You will be back once you've trained and seen the dawn? * @Morgan nods (@Morgan) That is my plan * Molly sips the water from the fifth (Molly) Maybe one morning I can come and watch you? (@Morgan) If you wish to blossom (Molly) I did not know if it was the solitude that was important * @Morgan shrugs (@Morgan) the peace, really (Molly) Well, I cannot say I have really made your life particularly peaceful *she giggles* (@Morgan) More than you'd imagine * Molly looks intrigued (Molly) Even with the constant getting myself in danger? (@Morgan) I've not fought any monsters for a while, so on balance... (Molly) Tawstock was very safe for me, on balance! * @Morgan nods * Molly watches him dress, looking at his coat (Molly) How do you manage to carry such a heavy coat * @Morgan shrugs (@Morgan) I cant say I notice its weight, given how much my weaponry weighs (Molly) Perhaps one day my curiosity will get the better of me, and I will have a look to see what odd things you carry around with you! * Molly is obviously only teasing him (@Morgan) There's probably stuff in there that would surprise me... * Molly giggles (Molly) I doubt you would find raw Dracheneisen in any other coat on Theah (@Morgan) No, I think you're right there * Molly yawns briefly (Molly) I need to go back to sleep, sorry liebling (@Morgan) Go, I'll see you when I get back in (Molly) Alright *like the switch of a powered light, Molly is asleep almost instantly* * @Morgan watches for a moment to make sure she is ok * Molly seems absolutely fine * @Morgan picks up his coat and sword and heads out of the room (Molly) ** He sees servants on the way, but none interrupt him. Outside it's almost dawn, the air is fresh but dry. He encounters Claudia swinging a sword around in a similar sort of practice to his * @Morgan watches her for a couple of moments before turning his attention to the sun coming up (Molly) **Assuming she isn't being watched, Claudia transitions into something that is almost more like dancing than fighting, an almost sensual brutality that is hard to describe. The sky lightens, the sun appearing rapidly * @Morgan turns his face back towards Claudia as soon as the sun is above the horizon ** You're now known as Claudia * Claudia does this for a few more minutes before transitioning back to a more normal style that he has seen her do many times before (@Morgan) Where did that come from? * Claudia wipes the sweat from her brow, breathing hard, bringing the falchion to her side (Claudia) What? (@Morgan) the... fluid movements * Claudia shrugs (Claudia) Something I have been working on for a while (@Morgan) its intriguing... (Claudia) I haven't used it. I don't think it would be much use aside from as a distraction. (@Morgan) Would you care to test that? * Claudia smiles slightly (Claudia) If you like * @Morgan draws his falchion, briefly saluting her * Claudia does likewise. She closes her eyes briefly, seeming to draw on something within her. When she opens her eyes, the set of her body changes, even her expression. Unlike her usual forthright, even slightly masculine demeanour, this is different. Everything about her seems to softer and become more feminine * @Morgan nods slightly before attacking, not bothering with the usual fancy fencing * Claudia takes the initiative, weaving and dodging and twisting around him. It's fast, it's lithe, and almost distracting in is fluid unpredictability. The focus is on avoiding the strikes whilst making quick flurries of lighter attacks to disorientate * @Morgan tries to match Claudia's movements, aiming just to keep up rather than overpower her * Claudia steps up both the speed and dexterity. It becomes even more beautiful as she really digs in to it * @Morgan increases his pace to match her * Claudia raises her hand after a few minutes, stepping away. She shrugs (Claudia) It's a work in progress. * @Morgan nods (@Morgan) Its wonderful * Claudia 's demeanour returns to normal (Claudia) It's different. It could be useful like the shiny bits on my uniform, distracting to primitive men. * @Morgan nods (@Morgan) as well as being an unknown style, which always helps * Claudia nods (Claudia) It works muscle groups I don't always work. (@Morgan) I'd imagine so (Claudia) I think Molly might like it, actually. How is she this morning? (@Morgan) Tired, but certainly no worse than when we went to sleep * Claudia nods (Claudia) Good. And you? * @Morgan shrugs (@Morgan) I had a rough night (Claudia) It's hard to wind down after something like that * @Morgan nods (@Morgan) I get nightmares a lot but that one... (Claudia) Wanna talk about it? * @Morgan shakes his head (@Morgan) Not particularly * Claudia nods (Claudia) I can't say I've ever really had nightmares (@Morgan) no? (Claudia) Not since I was a child * @Morgan nods (Claudia) There's rumours amongst the staff that Alarice is going to be executed before the end of the weekend * @Morgan nods (@Morgan) I believe so (Claudia) Good. Do it before she starts any more nonsense * @Morgan nods (@Morgan) quite (Claudia) You going to see her? (@Morgan) No. I've nothing to say to her, and I've no interest in anything she may have to say to me (Claudia) Any other issues likely to arise now? * @Morgan closes his eyes and inclines his face towards the sun (@Morgan) Not that I am aware of right now... (Claudia) Not always predictable though * @Morgan nods (@Morgan) Theus knows we didn't predict this mess * Claudia nods (Claudia) It was touch and go that Sorgi and I even came with you (@Morgan) oh? (Claudia) the risk of Alarice being an issue when we left Zweibrucke was significantly smaller than it ended up being. Realistically there would have been good arguments to have left us both there. Who could have foreseen the hell this would become * @Morgan nods (@Morgan) I'm glad you did (Claudia) Me too. Sorgi thinks you should let us take Molly and Varick out of town before the execution. (@Morgan) I'm working on it (Claudia) Can Molly travel? * @Morgan sighs (@Morgan) realistically, no (Claudia) Then take Varick alone? (@Morgan) No, I won't leave her here (Claudia) You aren't staying for the execution yourself? (@Morgan) Oh, you mean you and Sorgi take him alone... (Claudia) Yes (@Morgan) Perhaps (Claudia) Depends on your objective really. (@Morgan) in what way? (Claudia) What is the aim? Get them safely away? Avoid the gossip and gawpers? (@Morgan) It was more to have them safe and to protect Varick from what he might hear, but a part of that was tied to the possibility of her burning (Claudia) She won't burn? * @Morgan shakes his head (@Morgan) politics * Claudia rolls her eyes (Claudia) My favourite thing * @Morgan nods (@Morgan) quite (Claudia) Do you think they are _unsafe_ now? (@Morgan) I don't think so, no * Claudia nods, watching the shadows of branches on the grass (Claudia) I wouldn't chance it (@Morgan) which bit? (Claudia) Alarice. Until she is dead, and then for a few weeks after, I wouldn't be sure she didn't have something up her sleeve set up on the off chance. (@Morgan) She told me she had no further plans, and I believe her * @Morgan sighs * Claudia glances at him (@Morgan) though it may be worth reinforcing that (Claudia) You could send them on to Tannen to wait for you, it's only a day down the road (@Morgan) I'm not sure thats doable for Molly just yet * Claudia nods (Claudia) Well, let me know what I can do. Sorgi and I are at a bit of a loss without guard duty (@Morgan) Have you considered having a day to just relax? * Claudia frowns (Claudia) Why would I want to do that? (@Morgan) Because its important to try new things * Claudia shrugs (Claudia) I like my old things * @Morgan nods (@Morgan) I know what you mean (Claudia) I'm glad she's alright. When that bell went yesterday... * @Morgan nods (@Morgan) it scared the hell out of me * Claudia nods (Claudia) I don't think I've ever heard you swear like that before * @Morgan nods (@Morgan) Generally I'm more restrained than that... mind you, did you hear what happened with the master at arms? (Claudia) Threw him on his arse, I heard * @Morgan nods (@Morgan) I'd feel bad if he wasn't such an ass (Claudia) I had visions of having to tell Heinzharold that you'd disappeared again *it sounds light hearted, but he knows her well enough to know that it is anything but* * @Morgan nods (@Morgan) I made a promise to Varick. (Claudia) Good. I don't think Heinzharold would have handled it any better this time than last time * @Morgan nods (@Morgan) I couldn't stay then. (Claudia) I can't say I ever understood, but I respected tour decision * @Morgan nods (Claudia) Was it a close call? (@Morgan) Almost a foregone conclusion * Claudia nods (Claudia) Very lucky then (@Morgan) extremely * Claudia touches her upper arm (Claudia) Could she... to be able to travel? (@Morgan) I don't think so... it was certainly out of the question yesterday (Claudia) Any idea why? (@Morgan) I don't pretend to understand it * Claudia nods (Claudia) We're Eisen, the less we know about that sort of thing that happier we generally are * @Morgan nods, smiling slightly (@Morgan) you'd hate where I stayed in Avalon (Claudia) Oh? (@Morgan) monsters weren't so bad, they're fairly simple... kill them. But there's so many wandering around with all kinds of magical abilities * @Morgan frowns (@Morgan) all with green eyes, too (Claudia) Molly doesn't have green eyes (@Morgan) No... (Claudia) That makes no sense then (@Morgan) Her... talent appeared relatively recently, she wasn't born able to do it... they all were, I believe * Claudia shakes her head a moment (Claudia) Unless you need to tell me to keep you all safe, I'd rather not know! * @Morgan shrugs (@Morgan) I shan't tell you that Eisen used to have its own magicians, with a specific power then... * Claudia frowns (Claudia) Did they? (@Morgan) anyway, where I was, there was a travelling Montaigne... person who thought it would be fabulous to show off by creating portals to elsewhere. * @Morgan looks at her (@Morgan) aye (Claudia) Bloody Montaigne. (@Morgan) quite (Claudia) Why did they do that? (@Morgan) Because he was an idiot. He and my charge disappeared and I ended up facing monsters from Theus knows where every hour for a bloody month * Claudia looks interested (Claudia) Imagine if you'd had Heinzharold and I with you though (@Morgan) It would have been very useful (Claudia) It would have been quite enjoyable for a little while, no doubt (Claudia) Oh, Sorgi no longer thinks his recovery could potentially be supernatural. (@Morgan) oh? (Claudia) Why would you have been so worried if she could just fix all illness and injury? * @Morgan nods slowly (@Morgan) that makes a remarkable amount of sense * Claudia grins (Claudia) You're welcome. * @Morgan shoves Claudia (@Morgan) Now thats settled... I'm going to get some coffee and see my wife * Claudia nods (Claudia) I'm going to practice more * Claudia grasps his arm in their familiar parting gesture ** You are now disconnected