------------------------------ Logging started for Blitzed:#7thseaic on Wednesday, 7 October 2020 16:50:00 British Summer Time ------------------------------ ** You have joined #7thseaic (Molly) (Library, or something else?) (@Morgan) (library) (Molly) *The house is empty as he walks through, with even the staff off to their churches, leaving only a couple in the kitchen for the next hour. The library is tidy when he gets there. * @Morgan starts looking for a detailed map (Molly) *it takes a while for him to find one that is as detailed as he would like. It's a topographical map, showing height above sea level, natural features of the land, rather than buildings * @Morgan mutters, laying it out on the table (Molly) **It covers the table when unfolded (Molly) **he can easily find Die Dauerhaftigkeit, and the little clearing where his and Dietlinde's cottage was * @Morgan traces his finger along, trying to find the point he recalls from the dream * Molly 's map was not as detailed as this, but recalling the distance and degrees from Die Dauerhaftigkeit, the distance from the road and the lake, he can pinpoint it to beside a small stream running from inside the forest to the lake, ideal for a water wheel * @Morgan looks at it for a moment (@Morgan) well... yes, now I know where it is... and? (Molly) **heading west north west, so the opposite of his dream of her compass, is the clearing he sheltered from the schattenmann in. If he hadn't tripped, he would have found the stream a minute or two down the path, and could have made it to the house ** You are now disconnected (Software caused connection abort) ------------------------------ Logging started for Blitzed:#7thseaic on Wednesday, 7 October 2020 20:13:31 British Summer Time ------------------------------ ** Reconnecting to irc.blitzed.org:6667… -NickServ- Welcome to Blitzed IRC Network, MollyK! Here on Blitzed IRC Network, we provide services to enable the registration of nicknames and channels! For details, type /msg NickServ help and /msg ChanServ help. ** You have joined #7thseaic (MollyK) **there is no answer ** You are now disconnected (Software caused connection abort) ------------------------------ Logging started for Blitzed:#7thseaic on Wednesday, 7 October 2020 20:15:59 British Summer Time ------------------------------ ** Reconnecting to irc.blitzed.org:6667… -NickServ- Welcome to Blitzed IRC Network, Moll! Here on Blitzed IRC Network, we provide services to enable the registration of nicknames and channels! For details, type /msg NickServ help and /msg ChanServ help. ** You have joined #7thseaic (@Morgan) I was rather close to that... ** You are now disconnected (Software caused connection abort) ------------------------------ Logging started for Blitzed:#7thseaic on Wednesday, 7 October 2020 20:16:56 British Summer Time ------------------------------ ** You have joined #7thseaic (MK) ((FFS)) ** Molly has quit (Ping timeout: 250 seconds) (MK) C&P pls (@Morgan) I was rather close to that... (MK) *he gets the feeling of being watched** * @Morgan looks around the room (MK) **there's nothing to see ** MollyK has quit (Ping timeout: 260 seconds) ** You are now disconnected (Software caused connection abort) ------------------------------ Logging started for Blitzed:#7thseaic on Wednesday, 7 October 2020 20:20:12 British Summer Time ------------------------------ ** Reconnecting to irc.blitzed.org:6667… -NickServ- Welcome to Blitzed IRC Network, MollyK! Here on Blitzed IRC Network, we provide services to enable the registration of nicknames and channels! For details, type /msg NickServ help and /msg ChanServ help. ** You have joined #7thseaic ** You are now disconnected (Software caused connection abort) ------------------------------ Logging started for Blitzed:#7thseaic on Wednesday, 7 October 2020 20:20:24 British Summer Time ------------------------------ ** Reconnecting to irc.blitzed.org:6667… -NickServ- Welcome to Blitzed IRC Network, MollyK! Here on Blitzed IRC Network, we provide services to enable the registration of nicknames and channels! For details, type /msg NickServ help and /msg ChanServ help. ** You have joined #7thseaic (MollyK) (Test) ** Moll has quit (Ping timeout: 250 seconds) (@Morgan) ((oh for pete sake)) (MollyK) **A book falls off a shelf * @Morgan goes over and picks it up (MollyK) ** it has an etched picture of a man using a magnifying glass to look at a tiny girl with wings. It is called Investigating The Supernatural World, Volume 1, Darius Eckname. ** MK has quit (Ping timeout: 250 seconds) * @Morgan takes the book to the table, flicking through it (MollyK) **It is quite dated, and almost reads like a diary. It details the hunt for proving or disproving the existence of supernatural creatures, including changelings, ghosts, faeries, drachen * @Morgan searches for the schatennman (MollyK) **There is nothing about the schattenmann in there. The various researching he does seems to have been thorough, well documented, and aside from the drachen, have yielded results. (@Morgan) I'm sorry, I don't understand why this book is important... unless of course he was looking for _it_ (MollyK) **there's no answer ** You are now disconnected (Software caused connection abort) ------------------------------ Logging started for Blitzed:#7thseaic on Wednesday, 7 October 2020 20:31:39 British Summer Time ------------------------------ ** Reconnecting to irc.blitzed.org:6667… -NickServ- Welcome to Blitzed IRC Network, FFS! Here on Blitzed IRC Network, we provide services to enable the registration of nicknames and channels! For details, type /msg NickServ help and /msg ChanServ help. ** You have joined #7thseaic ** You are now disconnected (Software caused connection abort) ------------------------------ Logging started for Blitzed:#7thseaic on Wednesday, 7 October 2020 20:31:55 British Summer Time ------------------------------ ** Reconnecting to irc.blitzed.org:6667… -NickServ- Welcome to Blitzed IRC Network, FFS! Here on Blitzed IRC Network, we provide services to enable the registration of nicknames and channels! For details, type /msg NickServ help and /msg ChanServ help. ** You have joined #7thseaic (FFS) ((Will restart phone if it continues)) ** You are now disconnected (Software caused connection abort) ------------------------------ Logging started for Blitzed:#7thseaic on Wednesday, 7 October 2020 20:34:07 British Summer Time ------------------------------ ** You have joined #7thseaic (Molly) ((Test)) * @Morgan goes and looks for more books by the same author (Molly) **there doesn't seem to be any ** MollyK has quit (Ping timeout: 260 seconds) * @Morgan frowns, going to back to the map (Molly) **another book falls ** FFS has quit (Ping timeout: 250 seconds) (Molly) *It is called "unsolvable puzzles"* (@Morgan) _that_ is not encouraging * @Morgan leafs through the pages (Molly) **there's nothing of significance, it just seems to be puzzles ** You are now disconnected (Software caused connection abort) ------------------------------ Logging started for Blitzed:#7thseaic on Wednesday, 7 October 2020 20:40:27 British Summer Time ------------------------------ ** You have joined #7thseaic (MollyK) C&P pls (@Morgan) *It is called "unsolvable puzzles"* (@Morgan) _that_ is not encouraging (@Morgan) * Morgan leafs through the pages (@Morgan) **there's nothing of significance, it just seems to be puzzles (@Morgan) Not terribly helpful I'm afraid (MollyK) **there's no response ** Molly has quit (Ping timeout: 250 seconds) * @Morgan goes back to the first book, flicking through it again (MollyK) **he is able to use his navigational skills to very precisely write out how to find the house from any direction of approach. The only thing that stands out is that this research seems to have searched out sightings and reports of the supernatural phenomenon, and then travelled through northern Eisen investigating. It is well written, implying a good education, probably nobility (MollyK) Researcher* (@Morgan) Were you looking for it, I wonder... got yourself eaten... (MollyK) **a book falls* * @Morgan wanders over to it, humming as he picks it up (MollyK) **It is called "Recipes to surprise and delight" * @Morgan flicks through it (MollyK) *there's nothing interesting in it (@Morgan) well, you seem to be having fun (MollyK) **nothing happens. He realises he doesn't feel watched any more * @Morgan puts the last book back before packing away the map (MollyK) **the feeling of being watched doesn't return * @Morgan puts the last book back and heads to the kitchen (MollyK) **there are two males servants who seem to be deep cleaning the floors with boiling fragranced water and scrubbing brushes. He has seen them both before but neither are well known to him * @Morgan steps around them, making himself some coffee (MollyK) **they offer to do it for him* (@Morgan) No no, I won't disrupt your task (MollyK) **they keep working. He realises he's been in the library over an hour (MollyK) **He heads back to the nursery with a jug of coffee, intent on giving his weapons a proper clean and sharpen after what they were put through yesterday, and it's a peaceful, quiet task with the reward of knowing he is ready for their planned departure tomorrow. There's a knock at the door just as he's cleaning up, almost two hours after they left for church (@Morgan) Come... ** You're now known as Adalbrecht * Adalbrecht brings in Varick. The young boy looks subdued but not distressed. Adalbrecht helps him take off his coat and boots (Adalbrecht) **Varick goes over to Morgan, hugging him casually. Adalbrecht removes his own coat, looking around for coffee before looking to Morgan (Adalbrecht) Good morning. * @Morgan puts his arms around Varick (@Morgan) father... (Adalbrecht) Molly is with His Grace, we saw him outside the church and he asked me to let you know he wants her company for a while and her input on some redecorating. I said I would bring Varick back to you * @Morgan nods (@Morgan) very well (Adalbrecht) **Varick lets go, going into his room, clearly looking for something** * Adalbrecht looks sheepish (Adalbrecht) I am sorry, about this morning. * @Morgan nods (Adalbrecht) It was wrong of me to push you like that (@Morgan) Yes, it was * Adalbrecht nods (Adalbrecht) It won't happen again. (@Morgan) I'll go when I'm ready father. I know you're trying to help, but it needs to be when I decide... I've spent a long time being angry at Him, and I'm only just starting to speak to Him again. * Adalbrecht nods, hands in pockets (Adalbrecht) I just assumed that Molly's near miss would have been enough to bridge that gap further * Adalbrecht helps himself to coffee, and takes a seat (@Morgan) That it may have... had I not felt pushed to it, there is a good chance I would have gone today. * Adalbrecht looks guilty (Adalbrecht) I am sorry I took that from you * @Morgan shrugs (@Morgan) I took the time to find that house (Adalbrecht) On a map? (@Morgan) No, I walked to it and back... * Adalbrecht frowns (Adalbrecht) You found it? (@Morgan) A little intuition and a bit of luck, I think I have aye (Adalbrecht) You have the map? (Adalbrecht) **Varick comes out with the blue library book in his hands* (@Morgan) No, I left it in the library, since it is rude to just take someone elses things (Adalbrecht) *Varick looks at Morgan a minute, then hides the book in his hands behind his back * Adalbrecht smiles a little, drinking his coffee, and watching Morgan (@Morgan) Of course if someone has given it to you, you're allowed to... (Adalbrecht) **Varick comes to sit on Morgan's lap* Will you read to me? (@Morgan) If you wish (Adalbrecht) **he hands him a book open on a story called "The bells of Borogravia". (Adalbrecht) ((Read it out or skim it first)) (@Morgan) ((skim it)) (Adalbrecht) **It is a ghost story with a poisoning and a beheading (@Morgan) I'm not sure this is entirely appropriate for a gentleman of your age ** You're now known as Varick (Varick) But I want that one (@Morgan) its really not very nice (Varick) Don't care (@Morgan) why? (Varick) **Adalbrecht watches with the relaxed demeanour of a grandparent who doesn't have to deal with the tantrums** (Varick) It's the next one, and I like ghost stories * @Morgan reads it more attentively, trying to figure out if its suitable (Varick) **there are no gory details. It is not much worse than most children's stories * @Morgan nods (@Morgan) very well (Varick) The story goes like this: Once upon a time in the old kingdom of Borogravia, there was a King called Novichok. King Novichok was a good ruler, but he had a bad advisor called Tzeddit who wanted to rule the kingdom himself. One day, Tzeddit hatches a cunning plan. (Varick) He gives the king poison, and in the morning after the king dies, he tells the people of the Kingdom the king had decided to stay in the palace as a ghost and had appointed Tzeddit to tell the people the King's wishes. Tzeddit gets two silver bells, hung up on a small frame, and labels them yes or no. With a fine thread, Tzeddit moves the bells without anyone noticing. (Varick) The people only see the bells ring, and believe it is their King communicating with them from beyond the grave. For one year, Tzeddit tricks them, making himself richer and the country poorer. The people are unhappy, but they still believe it is the word of their King. But on the anniversary of the King's death, whilst Tzeddit is holding court, Tzeddit proclaims that it is time for him to be made the king instead. (Varick) The No bell starts to ring. Tzeddit is afraid, and he pulls the string. But the bell does not stop. He pulls harder, but it doesn't stop. The people become angry, because they believe their King has turned against Tzeddit. They carry him outside and behead him (Varick) The silver bell for Yes rings and rings for a whole day, and then never rings again. The King is at peace. The kingdom choose a new king, and they live happily ever after. The end. * @Morgan closes the book (Varick) That was a good story *he looks thoughtful* * @Morgan nods (Varick) **Adalbrecht looks to the boy* And what did it teach you? (Varick) Ummm... don't tell lies? (Varick) **Adalbrecht looks to Morgan* what do you think? (@Morgan) I'd say thats a fair statement (Varick) **Adalbrecht nods, sipping his coffee casually. Varick still looks thoughtful, then looks at Morgan* If ghosts _did_ exist... (@Morgan) yes? (Varick) Then they could use bells to talk to people * Varick watches Morgan closely * @Morgan nods (@Morgan) Yes, I suppose you're right... * Varick then shrugs, moving to Adalbrecht (Varick) Will you read the next one? **there's a knock on the door* (Varick) **Adalbrecht holds out his hand for the book* * @Morgan gets up, going to the door ** You're now known as Mia * Mia hands him a tightly folded note * @Morgan takes it, unfolding it (Mia) The note says: I need to talk to you about something urgent and important. It is sensitive, so keep it quiet. Meet me by the lakeside guardhouse. Edward. * @Morgan tucks it into his pocket, nodding to MIa (@Morgan) Father, would you watch Varick, I need to run an errand (Mia) **Adalbrecht says okay loudlybhalf way through a sentence * @Morgan moves out of the nursery to head down to the guardhouse (Mia) **the weather is fine as he predicted. He sees no-one on the way. With a glance, he can just see a few blackened stumps of the boardwalk as he gets to the large lawn. Edward is also looking in that direction when Morgan spots him. Edward's expression is grim, hands in his pockets ** You're now known as Edward (@Morgan) Edward... * Edward looks Morgan over, obviously assessing for weaponry (@Morgan) Oh this must be bad if you're checking to see how dangerous I could be (Edward) I overheard a conversation this morning, and I feel I am honour-bound tell you about it *he remains grim and serious* (@Morgan) go on (Edward) I want you to get however you feel about it out of your system before you do anything rash, which is why we are all the way down here (@Morgan) Spit it out Edward * Edward checks Morgan's expression * @Morgan watches him (Edward) Molly and His Grace were getting out of the carriage when I was preparing my horse for a ride. He was telling her that he wanted her to give his proposal some thought, and that he understood she had conflicted loyalties at play, but how it would be most beneficial to her if she accepted. * Edward pauses, obviously with more to say but worried about Morgan's reaction * @Morgan watches him closely, almost completely still (Edward) She said that she had made a promise and that it would be very difficult for her to break that promise, even if it was her desire also. He told her it was important that she thinks about the full scope of the benefits and drawbacks of her choice, and that she makes this decision for herself, without undue influence. * Edward pauses again (Edward) He said that she would be given an appropriate title and payments, and hold a level of status and influence beyond that of Veisgrafin, one that other women do not have. He said she should keep their discussions to herself until she had made her choice. He told her that he was most eager for her to acceed to his wishes. She agreed she would think about it. * Edward seems to have finished his narrative, wary and watchful * @Morgan speaks quietly (@Morgan) I see (Edward) Now before you go off the deep end, you need to remember, no matter what, he is our _Eisenfurst_. * Edward still looks grim, serious (@Morgan) I am aware. * Edward watches him (Edward) If you need to get it out of your system, I am here. (@Morgan) You assume there is anything I need to get out of my system (Edward) I have seen it happen with other Eisenfursts. They develop an interest in the wives of their nobles, and take them as mistresses for a while. It is horrible, but also comes with an increase of status for their lands. (@Morgan) You need to leave me now * Edward looks troubled by this, but heads back up towards the woods * @Morgan walks over to where the boardwalk had been, picking up a few pieces of charred wood before sitting down and taking out his knife, using it bring the wood to points (Edward) **He manages this very effectively. A guard approaches him, having been patrolling (Edward) Good morning, my Lord ** You're now known as guard * @Morgan nods * guard assumes everything is fine, and continues on his way * guard passes him again half an hour later (guard) Uhh... do you want coffee, my Lord? * @Morgan nods slightly * guard goes and comes back with some, then continues on again ** You're now known as Edward * Edward returns around two hours later, after the time lunch would have been served and he would have been missed * Edward approaches slowly, calling to him from around fifty feet away (Edward) Morgan? * @Morgan doesn't move, simply looking out over the Sudlache * Edward thinks, then decides to risk approaching, making noise as he does so as not to suddenly alarm him * Edward gets to about ten feet away (Edward) Morgan? * @Morgan sighs (@Morgan) what? (Edward) I thought you would have gone back to the house by now (@Morgan) It is best I stay out here. Has Molly returned? (Edward) From what I can gather, she went back to the nursery about ten minutes after you left, and had sent father away so she could talk to Varick alone (@Morgan) I see * Edward risks sitting down beside Morgan, though not without trepidation (Edward) I have told the staff you went to town to tie up loose ends before we leave tomorrow (@Morgan) Very well * Edward sighs (Edward) That will buy you time before they start looking for you * @Morgan shrugs slightly (@Morgan) it matters not (Edward) Why not? (@Morgan) My behaviour is unusual enough that my sitting out here for hours would raise nothing more than the occasional eyebrow * Edward nods slowly (Edward) What do you intend to do, Morgan? (@Morgan) I intend to wait (Edward) Until? (@Morgan) until all is clear (Edward) Then you would have me go back to the house and keep a watch on communication between them? (@Morgan) I would ask that you ask her to come to me * Edward stands up (Edward) Alright. And if she is still napping with Varick? (@Morgan) Then wait (Edward) And do you want it kept quiet that you or I know? (@Morgan) We don't know anything just yet * Edward nods (Edward) Anything else? * @Morgan shakes his head, going back to looking over the lake * Edward heads back to the house. The guard passes again before Molly finally arrives beneath the white lace parasol. She makes a beeline for him, and he hears her approach at a good distance ** You're now known as Molly -NickServ- This nickname is registered. Please choose a different nickname, or identify via /msg NickServ identify . ** New query from NickServ (Available on submenu 'Windows') -NickServ- You are now identified for Molly. * Molly comes over, sitting beside him (Molly) Ana said you had gone to town, I was starting to worry when you missed lunch (@Morgan) No, I've been here * Molly smiles, watching the lake (Molly) The air is certainly fresher here than in church * @Morgan nods slightly * Molly glances at him, looking at his expression (Molly) Do you find it easier to talk to Him out here like this? (@Morgan) I haven't. I've been pondering what I'll do should what has been assumed is accurate * Molly looks confused (Molly) Assumed about what? (@Morgan) I understand the Eisenfurst wanted to speak to you about... decorating. (Molly) And his future plans for the Konigsreich, yes * Molly watches him with a hint of puzzlement and a slight wariness * @Morgan sits silently * Molly frowns (Molly) What is going on? (@Morgan) I would rather like you to tell me that * Molly frowns deeper (Molly) About the decorating? * @Morgan picks up his empty cup, tucking inside his coat * Molly watches him, clearly trying to figure out what is going on with him (@Morgan) What promise is difficult to break, even if you desire to... * Molly sighs (Molly) To tell you, I have to defy the command of an Eisenfurst (@Morgan) If it is what is suspected, he will not be Eisenfurst for long. * Molly frowns, watching him (Molly) Why? * @Morgan sighs (@Morgan) Then I'll ask him * Molly nods (Molly) I have no issue with that * @Morgan picks up the sticks and knife * Molly suddenly develops an issue with that (Molly) Whoa, hang on. What do you need those for? (@Morgan) _need_? (Molly) Liebes herz, you are worrying and confusing me! * Molly frowns deeply (@Morgan) well I'm sorry about that, but since I cannot get an answer from you, I will get one from him. * @Morgan starts walking towards the house * Molly chases after him (Molly) You truly want me to defy him? (@Morgan) No. Keep your secrets, I will find out another way (Molly) That is unfair, liebling! (@Morgan) I don't see how. You do not wish to defy your Eisenfurst for your husband, so I will not ask you to. * Molly nips around in front of him (Molly) I am your _wife_. Only Theus himself owns me above you. * @Morgan looks at her * Molly watches him right back firmly (@Morgan) You will move, and I will go and find out the truth behind what I have heard. (Molly) You will command me to move, but not command me to speak? And I will not step aside for this, because whatever you have assumed is not as bad as you think! * Molly is starting to look a little cross now, rather than hiding behind neutrality (@Morgan) You want it both ways? You want me to command you to defy him, but refuse a simple command to move. * Molly doesn't look away from him (Molly) Yes. * @Morgan 's expression goes flat * Molly immediately bows her head, looking upset and guilty (@Morgan) very well. You will not move, you give me no reason to believe you will follow any other instruction. (Molly) I do not want you doing something you will regret. But I must obey my Eisenfurst, unless commanded to do so by my husband. * @Morgan turns and walks back to the edge of the Sudlache, sitting down once more * Molly breathes slowly a moment before following and sitting beside him (Molly) How did you hear what was said? (@Morgan) One way or another, I hear most things. * @Morgan picks up a piece of wood, whittling it (Molly) And what have you assumed from it? *she watches not his hands but his expression* * Molly 's tone is serious (@Morgan) Until your evasion and sudden desire that I do not go and ask the Eisenfurst what he's doing, nothing. * Molly frowns (Molly) And now? (@Morgan) What would you be thinking? * Molly is clearly tense beside him, watching the lake, thinking (Molly) I would be thinking I should command my wife, who is obviously desperate not to accidentally ruin the progress I had made with my Eisenfurst, so that she can tell me and save me doing something potentially violent and disppropotionate. (@Morgan) Yes, command the person who refused to obey a simple instruction. The person who assumes my reaction would be violent and disproportionate. * Molly sighs, drawing her knees up and wrapping her arms around them (Molly) I am just trying to do the right thing (@Morgan) The right thing is to prevent me from going and finding out myself... to assume the immediate worst of me while fearing I think the worst of you... (Molly) No, liebes herz. I am just very, very far out of my depth, and I am scared. I have No idea how to deal with having to give a promise to an Eisenfurst and putting everything at risk if I make the wrong choice. I have hurt you, and I am most sorry for that * @Morgan shrugs (@Morgan) He forced you to give a promise? (Molly) He told me I should not speak of it to anyone because it is an important decision that will have big consequences, and that choice should be my own * @Morgan rolls his shoulders * Molly watches him a moment, then looks back at the lake, looking solemn (Molly) I want to tell you, but I cannot just defy him easily (@Morgan) And you've given me reason to believe my commanding you would fall on deaf ears (@Morgan) So... tell me what I _dont_ need to worry about * Molly nods slowly, weighing this up (Molly) My life, your life, Varick's life. My fidelity, my wedding vows, Innesbruck, Koln, Sudlachenburg * @Morgan stares out over the lake * Molly watches him (Molly) Command me, and I will obey. (@Morgan) So you say. Your actions have not suggested such (Molly) And I apologise. I was wrong, and through my misguided attempt to protect you, I have only hurt us both (@Morgan) I need protecting from what he has asked, and you desire? Then we are right back where we started, but with better reason for me to go and find out what the hell he is doing * Molly bows her head, her expression deeply troubled (Molly) It isn't even something I think you would disapprove of, but I am in an impossible position because I do not want to damage your lands and I fear that everything I do or do not do is only going to end in me failing you further * Molly rests her head on her forearms, breathing slowly * @Morgan cuts a groove down the length of the sharpened stick and along the bottom * Molly doesn't see this, busy trying to keep herself from falling to pieces emotionally (@Morgan) Why should it damage my lands? (Molly) If I break the confidence it could harm our standing (@Morgan) Then it seems your only option is to make your decision. (Molly) But the decision is so vast, and with many consequences. (@Morgan) But make it you must, with no undue pressure... * Molly sighs heavily (Molly) That is what he wants (@Morgan) At some point he and I will discuss what is appropriate to require of another mans wife. * Molly frowns a little (Molly) By asking her to not tell her husband something? (@Morgan) He puts himself above her husband... what next, above Theus? (@Morgan) how _dare_ he * Molly nods slowly (Molly) It is asking a great deal to stop a woman seeking her master's approval in weighty matters, and for her to bear that alone. **there is only solemness in her tone* (@Morgan) If I commanded you and you did obey me, that is still a confidence broken and would still harm us (Molly) I suspect no matter what, we will come to harm in one form or another. (@Morgan) Then what he asks is simply not acceptable, and I shall call him out * Molly is becoming increasingly burdened (Molly) That would lose you everything (@Morgan) It feels like thats already occurred * @Morgan leans over, picking up a longer stick * Molly bows her head, speaking softly (Molly) Because you no longer trust me (@Morgan) You say it'll do us harm no matter what you decide. It feels lost to me. * @Morgan starts grinding a groove into one end of the stick * Molly sighs heavily (Molly) And I have to decide, and have all the burden of those consequences. (Molly) And even that weighs less heavy on my heart than what I have done to us. (@Morgan) When does he require an answer? (Molly) Before we set sail on saturday (@Morgan) Then he can wait for anything from me until then. (Molly) Such as? * @Morgan tests the flexibility of the longer stick * Molly watches what he is doing (Molly) What are you doing? (@Morgan) What I do... preparing. (Molly) Preparing for what? (@Morgan) To be ready to fight, to do someone harm. * Molly nods sadly (Molly) I hope you won't have to * @Morgan fishes out a length of rope from his coat, fixing one end to the groove in the longer stick (@Morgan) I think that possibility has passed * Molly lies back on the ground, looking up at the cloudless sky (Molly) Maybe I can puzzle my way out of it (@Morgan) If we're damned either way, you may as well just decide and pick up what pieces can be recovered. (Molly) But you will not command me to tell you? (@Morgan) That would harm our standing you said (Molly) Then I must go and get a horse and ride, so I can think clearly (@Morgan) You cannot ride (Molly) Damn. (Molly) In that case, I need a bath or a safe stream. (@Morgan) If I command you... am I likely to want to kill him as much as I do now? * Molly looks thoughtful (Molly) How much do you want to kill him now? (@Morgan) Your question rather answers mine. It is best I leave the estate before I shame my family yet again. * @Morgan stands up * Molly grabs his hand (Molly) No. I was just curious. You will be angry that I am having to make the decision, but I do not think you will be very angry about the topic of the decision. And I will become the most difficult person on the planet before I let you leave me behind. * @Morgan pulls his hand from hers, picking up one of the shorter stick and pressing the rope into the groove (@Morgan) Then make it as you please, and I will discuss at length the appropriate boundaries that he has overstepped. * @Morgan flicks the longer stick, propelling the shorter, sharper one into the distance * Molly stands up, watching him, torn between his creation and her feelings. She speaks quietly (Molly) You are dismissing me? (@Morgan) I do not wish to but this discussion is getting us nowhere, is it * Molly shakes her (Molly) No, I suppose not. I will go. * @Morgan nods, walking over to where his projectile went * Molly watches him a moment before walking back up towards the woods, her head bowed * @Morgan spends the next hour refining his technique ** You're now known as Edward * Edward is the first one to come to him. He strides down, less tentative and cautious (Edward) Where is Molly? (@Morgan) I don't know (Edward) Well Varick has been asking for her for an hour, and no-one in the house has any idea where she is. * Edward looks around, frowning, then looks at Morgan (Edward) When did you last see her? (@Morgan) A while ago. * Edward 's jaw tightens, and he looks angry (Edward) She. Is. Your. _Wife_. (@Morgan) Well I'm glad _someone_ realises that. * Edward glares at him (Edward) Your _wife_, who you nearly had to bury the day before yesterday, is missing, and you want to make snide remarks?! * @Morgan looks at his brother * Edward doesn't back down from it (@Morgan) Once I've found her, I'm going to deal with this situation... I suggest you start planning with father how you're doing to take over from me. * @Morgan strides off (@Morgan) [Where are you?] (Edward) I won't be taking over. You wanted to be the Veisgraf, you will damn well be the Veisgraf! (Edward) **he gets no reply* (@Morgan) [Molly Isabella Koertig, you will damn well tell me where you are] (Edward) *there is still no reply. Where he has been able to feel before that his messages are successful, he can tell now that they aren't * (@Morgan) Edward, fetch me a horse * Edward goes to the gatehouse at the entrance to the guard house at a sprint, then rides fast back * @Morgan takes the horse, climbing up onto it (@Morgan) Go be with Varick (Edward) Where are you going? * @Morgan spurs the horse into a flat run without answering (Edward) **One of the Nieblungen is already waiting at the gate for him ** You're now known as Nieblungen * @Morgan rolls off the horse, coming to the Nieblungen (@Morgan) is my wife here? (Nieblungen) Yes (@Morgan) Where? (Nieblungen) Under the tree (@Morgan) I need to see her (Nieblungen) **They let him in. (Nieblungen) **One of them takes the reins. There is a hush that falls as he walks through compound. Hammers stop, Nieblungen come to the doorways. * @Morgan heads towards the tree ** You're now known as Molly * Molly is sat around the far side of it, looking out over the Mine and beyond to the schwarzenwald (@Morgan) I'm surprised to find you here * Molly nods slowly (Molly) I was not sure where else to go * Molly is arranging the fallen gun metal grey leaves into a star shape (@Morgan) Varick is calling for you * Molly nods, her head bowing (Molly) Alright. I will go to him * Molly stands up slowly. She seems weary (@Morgan) I have a horse, I'll take you back * Molly takes a deep breath, squaring her shoulders (Molly) Alright * Molly walks down off the hill, back through the compound. The Nieblungen watch, looking unusually troubled * @Morgan walks beside her (Molly) **They get to the horse (@Morgan) Title and wealth beyond that of mere Veisgrafin... * Molly shrugs (Molly) I do not care for that. (@Morgan) You could have your own ships * Molly shrugs again (Molly) I do not want my own ships * Molly watches him (@Morgan) I'm angry... furious. (Molly) At me? (@Morgan) at you. At him. He deserves a thrashing for putting you in this position. * Molly bows her head (Molly) I know. (@Morgan) It is _right_ that he pays for this digression (Molly) I do not think was trying to cause harm (Molly) He* (@Morgan) If I shoot an arrow and it hits him, I am blameless also then because I wasn't _trying_ to harm him... * Molly sighs (Molly) I need to see him. (@Morgan) why? (Molly) Because I need him to understand that this is a choice that I cannot make alone. It is too weighty. (@Morgan) You cannot tell anyone else, he has decreed it. (Molly) Then I will have to leave (@Morgan) You cannot. Varick needs you, and once I have calmed down, I will too * Molly looks deeply wounded, then the neutrality appears (Molly) I see (@Morgan) No... you don't (Molly) You do not need me now... (@Morgan) Would I be this angry if I did not? * Molly nods slowly (Molly) I suppose not (@Morgan) No. I am feeling betrayed, and I'm on the verge of murderous rage. Were it not for the fact it would be you dealing with the consequences, I'd have cut a bloody swathe through the estate by now * Molly bows her head again (Molly) I apologise. I would not have brought this situation to your door if I could have helped it * @Morgan takes a deep breath * Molly doesn't look up. Her body language is very similar to on the Torrington Estate when he used to tell Her off (@Morgan) You have a decision to make and you will make it. With or without me. I will be informing him of the _disgust_ I hold his behaviour in and that he should feel ashamed to have treated someone he claims to be a friend that way. * Molly nods (Molly) Yes, my Lord (@Morgan) If he tests me in such a way again, he will be called out * Molly nods again (Molly) I hope he will not (@Morgan) If he does, Isiah will be Eisenfurst sooner than he expected * Molly nods. She cannot even find a witty comment to make (Molly) Yes, my Lord (@Morgan) How can you expect me to command you to tell me what the hell is going on, when you say doing so would harm our standing? (Molly) You are right. I have to stand string enough and have courage enough in my convictions to decide alone. I cannot hide behind you forever. (@Morgan) We work _together_. I should not have to command you to tell me. Normally you would decide on your own to tell me. (Molly) Normally I would not be defying an Eisenfurst (@Morgan) So your promise to the Eisenfurst outweighs how we work together. Is that what you're telling me? * Molly gets in such a state trying to figure out how to deal with the mess she has caused that she just starts sobbing (@Morgan) Get on the horse. I'm going to make him pay for doing this to us * Molly gets on the horse as instructed * @Morgan starts leading the horse towards the hosue * Molly 's overspilling thoughts start to become apparent as they get out of range * @Morgan stops suddenly (Molly) "Maybe in Tawstock, I could find him. But how would I delay that long" (@Morgan) Find who? * Molly suddenly jolts to attention, looking At him * Molly looks unsure of herself before saying quietly (Molly) Sigfried (@Morgan) Remind me what he said... about not telling anyone (Molly) I should keep my discussion with him to myself until I have decided (@Morgan) What loyalties are conflicted? (@Morgan) What promise would be broken? * Molly speaks very quietly (Molly) My loyalty to all three countries I have citizenship of. To take the charting documents to Queen Elaine. * Molly watches him * @Morgan sighs, hanging his head (@Morgan) You said you desire to... we will be harmed regardless, just do what he wants. (Molly) But it means betraying the man who gave me a way out of a marriage that would have destroyed My heart and soul. It means betraying duty as a Capperlucian citizen, and an Avalon citizen * @Morgan shrugs * Molly sighs heavily (Molly) He wants me to renounce my Avalon citizenship, liebes herz (@Morgan) To what end? (Molly) So that there can be no conflict of interest when he gains the charter rights and all the influence to Capperlucia through me. It is part of his ambition to strengthen the Konigsreich (@Morgan) How does he think thats going to go down with his half Avalonian friend? * Molly shrugs (Molly) I did wonder if that was partly why I should be deciding alone (@Morgan) How... cowardly. * Molly watches him (Molly) It isn't just citizenship to me. It is identity... history... It is everything I grew up with... but at the same time, Eisen is my future, my passion * @Morgan shrugs * Molly frowns deeply, her trouble plain on her face (Molly) Can you see how it is so hard to decide what to do and who to disobey and where I stand? (@Morgan) If that is the behaviour of a leader of Eisen, I don't think I wish to be Eisen any longer * Molly frowns (Molly) But this is your _home_. It is your birthright. * @Morgan starts moving again (Molly) The other option is that I give up my citizenship of Capperlucia. I renounce my title, and I return the documents to Sigfried. But if I do, Eisenfurst Fischler will not gain what he seeks, and that could damage our Grafdom being measure. (Molly) Beyond * * @Morgan sighs * Molly nods at his sigh (Molly) And I cannot allow that. (@Morgan) He cannot think this will be allowed to pass with no retribution, surely (Molly) I think he hopes that I will _want_ to strengthen Eisen so much that I can put aside all else for it. Identity, friendship, loyalty... (@Morgan) If I had any clue he'd behave like this... I'm of half a mind to copy the charts and take them to Posen * Molly frowns (Molly) You surely do not want an other Eisen war, which is almost certainly which would happen (@Morgan) No... and I wish I could feel any way other than being forced into conflict by a vaticine man... * Molly nods (Molly) It had not occurred to me quite how vulnerable a position having a triple citizenship put me in * @Morgan nods (@Morgan) Why does he need you to renounce your citizenship? The conflict of interest is theoretical. (Molly) It is, unless Queen Elaine gets wind if it and claims that my Avalon citizenship is stronger than my Eisen one, and therefore the access to Capperlucia through me belongs to her. (@Morgan) What does he offer in return? (Molly) Title and wealth beyond that of a Veisgrafin. Preferential trade. Exclusivity of trade between the Konigsreich and Capperlucia. Basically power and influence and money. (@Morgan) Thats not enough. * Molly smiles (Molly) What more is there? * Molly watches him (@Morgan) for giving up your identity and history? Its not enough. (Molly) You want land? (@Morgan) Everything of yours is mine... so that means the conflict of interest remains (Molly) Not my title or the land and court position Siegfried offered in Capperlucia. It's a matriarchal society. (@Morgan) No, but the charts, the obligation to share them with Queen Elaine... * Molly nods slowly (Molly) And if Siegfried had had any clue we were to wed, he would certainly have made it your duty * @Morgan nods (Molly) Interesting... what are you thinking? (@Morgan) I'm not sure yet... maybe a lot of land. I don't think I could face mother if he declared I had to renounce my citizenship of Avalon * Molly frowns suddenly (Molly) But if Queen Elaine discovers it, and claims that Capperlucia belongs with Avalon, what about Catterick? * @Morgan shrugs * Molly sighs (Molly) Queen Elaine... a monarch who burns people who do not attend the church her father reformed so he could toss aside his aging wives. * @Morgan nods (Molly) That is the worst of this, in some ways. I have felt a reluctance to tie Capperlucia to Avalon for several weeks, because I was slowly drifting from Avalon in my plans and dreams... and now there is an option, but delivered in a way that feels forced and unpleasant. * @Morgan nods (Molly) So, there you see it. Duty to three different countries, three different monarchs, and two men I counted as friends. And I was expected to make that decision with global repercussions alone, as a new bride who grew up on a small farm. (@Morgan) I'm still content to cut a swathe through the estate if it makes it easier * Molly smiles a little (Molly) I've given the laundry enough extra work getting bloodstains out for one trip, I think * @Morgan shrugs (@Morgan) we'll see (Molly) I am sorry though. I could bear to let down any of those monarchs, but my heart is most sore to have let down you * @Morgan nods (Molly) Liebes herz? (@Morgan) yes? (Molly) When you are no longer so angry, will you still love me more than more than life itself or should I prepare myself for letting that go? (@Morgan) I would not be so hurt if I didn't love you that much and more * Molly speaks quietly (Molly) Thank you. (Molly) **They get to a courtyard near one of the back doors** ** You are now disconnected ------------------------------ Logging started for Blitzed:#7thseaic on Thursday, 8 October 2020 09:29:03 British Summer Time ------------------------------ ** You have joined #7thseaic ** timtam.uk.eu.blitzed.org sets mode(s) +nt ** ChanServ sets mode(s) -o Molly ------------------------------ Logging started for Blitzed:#7thseaic on Thursday, 8 October 2020 10:59:02 British Summer Time ------------------------------ ** Reconnecting to irc.blitzed.org:6667… ** You have joined #7thseaic ------------------------------ Logging started for Blitzed:#7thseaic on Thursday, 8 October 2020 11:22:20 British Summer Time ------------------------------ ** Reconnecting to irc.blitzed.org:6667… ** Reconnecting to irc.blitzed.org:6667… ** Reconnecting to irc.blitzed.org:6667… ** Reconnecting to irc.blitzed.org:6667… ** Reconnecting to irc.blitzed.org:6667… ** Reconnecting to irc.blitzed.org:6667… ** Reconnecting to irc.blitzed.org:6667… ** Reconnecting to irc.blitzed.org:6667… ** Reconnecting to irc.blitzed.org:6667… ** Reconnecting to irc.blitzed.org:6667… ** Reconnecting to irc.blitzed.org:6667… ** You have joined #7thseaic ** timtam.uk.eu.blitzed.org sets mode(s) +nt ** ChanServ sets mode(s) -o MollyK ------------------------------ Logging started for Blitzed:#7thseaic on Thursday, 8 October 2020 11:35:49 British Summer Time ------------------------------ ** Reconnecting to irc.blitzed.org:6667… ** Reconnecting to irc.blitzed.org:6667… ** Reconnecting to irc.blitzed.org:6667… ** Reconnecting to irc.blitzed.org:6667… ** Reconnecting to irc.blitzed.org:6667… ** Reconnecting to irc.blitzed.org:6667… ** Reconnecting to irc.blitzed.org:6667… ** Reconnecting to irc.blitzed.org:6667… ** Reconnecting to irc.blitzed.org:6667… ** Reconnecting to irc.blitzed.org:6667… ** Reconnecting to irc.blitzed.org:6667… ** Reconnecting to irc.blitzed.org:6667… ** Reconnecting to irc.blitzed.org:6667… ** Reconnecting to irc.blitzed.org:6667… ** Reconnecting to irc.blitzed.org:6667… ** Reconnecting to irc.blitzed.org:6667… ** Reconnecting to irc.blitzed.org:6667… ** Reconnecting to irc.blitzed.org:6667… ** Reconnecting to irc.blitzed.org:6667… ** Reconnecting to irc.blitzed.org:6667… ** Reconnecting to irc.blitzed.org:6667… ** Reconnecting to irc.blitzed.org:6667… ** Reconnecting to irc.blitzed.org:6667… ** You have joined #7thseaic ** cantillon.be.eu.blitzed.org sets mode(s) +nt ** ChanServ sets mode(s) -o MollyK ------------------------------ Logging started for Blitzed:#7thseaic on Thursday, 8 October 2020 12:09:45 British Summer Time ------------------------------ ** Reconnecting to irc.blitzed.org:6667… ** Reconnecting to irc.blitzed.org:6667… ** Reconnecting to irc.blitzed.org:6667… ** Reconnecting to irc.blitzed.org:6667… ** Reconnecting to irc.blitzed.org:6667… ** Reconnecting to irc.blitzed.org:6667… ** You have joined #7thseaic ** You are now disconnected ------------------------------ Logging started for Blitzed:#7thseaic on Thursday, 8 October 2020 12:11:24 British Summer Time ------------------------------ ** You have joined #7thseaic (Molly) (Molly) I am sorry though. I could bear to let down any of those monarchs, but my heart is most sore to have let down you (Molly) * @Morgan nods (Molly) (Molly) Liebes herz? (Molly) (@Morgan) yes? (Molly) (Molly) When you are no longer so angry, will you still love me more than more than life itself or should I prepare myself for letting that go? (Molly) (@Morgan) I would not be so hurt if I didn't love you that much and more (Molly) * Molly speaks quietly (Molly) (Molly) Thank you. (Molly) (Molly) **They get to a courtyard near one of the back doors** * @Morgan takes a deep breath * Molly jumps down from the horse, looking around for somewhere to tether it * @Morgan takes it, tethering it for her * Molly stands still, watching him. She is clearly unsure of herself, cautious (Molly) Now what? (@Morgan) Go see to Varick. Then I suggest you speak with the Eisenfurst and explain it is not as easy as he thinks, considering _my_ heritage, and that I should be involved * Molly nods slowly (Molly) And where will I find you? (@Morgan) I'm going to get some coffee and something to eat * Molly nods solemnly (Molly) Alright. * Molly sighs, glancing up the height of the building to the sky, and squares her shoulders before she goes in * @Morgan heads off to the kitchen ** You're now known as Claudia * Claudia seems to have had a similar thought, and he spots her leaving with a tray containing a big jug and four cups (@Morgan) Where re you off to? (Claudia) To sit out on the grass (@Morgan) with four cups (Claudia) That's how they make up the trays here, * @Morgan nods (Claudia) Do you want to join me? * @Morgan nods slowly (@Morgan) I think so * Claudia watches him a moment (Claudia) Anything else you need from the kitchen? (@Morgan) Some food I think * Claudia heads back in. Soon they have food and are sat out on the warm grass in the sunshine. She hands him coffee (Claudia) How is everyone? * @Morgan shrugs (@Morgan) well enough (Claudia) Good. Glad to be leaving tomorrow? * @Morgan nods (@Morgan) Aye (Claudia) **They chat for a little while. After about ten minutes, he feels a flash of irritation that is not his own * @Morgan gets up (@Morgan) Excuse me * Claudia does * @Morgan heads into the house (Claudia) **he feels anger next (@Morgan) [do you need me?] (Claudia) [*angry, serious* Edward told you that I wanted to be His Grace's mistress.] (@Morgan) [No. He told me what he heard, verbatim] (Claudia) [He tells me he told you that this is what often happens. *she's still angry, sounding distracted as she is also mid-argument, which he can perceive but not hear* (Claudia) **he can choose to try to read her thoughts to listen in, or find her direct* (@Morgan) [He may have said that] * @Morgan goes to hunt her down (Claudia) **He finds she and Edward in a room near the Eisenfursts chapel. His sharp hearing brings the argument to him ** You're now known as Molly (Molly) You will stand down, Edward. You have done more than enough! This is the command of your Veisgrafin. * @Morgan enters the room (Molly) E: I will stay. This is-... *They both look to the door* * Molly looks very, very neutral (Molly) E: *he is checking over Morgan's armourment, expression and body language* * @Morgan is wearing his coat, sticks in hand (Molly) E: *he frowns, tone a warning* Morgan... * @Morgan looks at Molly (@Morgan) you have seen him? * Molly remains very neutral (Molly) No, I got waylaid by Edward and his "helpful advice" {anger} (Molly) E: *he folds his arms defensively* (@Morgan) Then I suggest you continue while Edward and I discuss things * Molly curtsies to him slightly, still neutral, and heads out ** You're now known as Edward * Edward watches her go * Edward then looks to Morgan seriously (Edward) You cannot harm him, Morgan (@Morgan) I will do what is right (Edward) He is your Eisenfurst. (@Morgan) He was supposed to be my _friend_ * Edward frowns (Edward) No. That is never how this works. They are our superiors, not our friends. * @Morgan snorts (@Morgan) Their birth does not elevate them above the consequences of their actions (Edward) Their birth gives them rights beyond ours. (@Morgan) Their birth gives them greater responsibility, not extra privilege. * Edward shakes his head (Edward) You are wrong (@Morgan) No, Edward... Your thinking so is exactly why nothing ever moves forward. (Edward) I cannot permit you to act against him. If he wants to take Molly as his mistress, that is what must happen. (@Morgan) if I _choose_ to act against him, _you_ will not stop me. (Edward) If you choose that, you will not be acting for the good of Sudlachenburg. *he watches him seriously* (@Morgan) I will be doing what is _right_ * Edward 's jaw tightens (Edward) I cannot let you do something that puts Sudlachenburg in harms way. (@Morgan) Perhaps I'll go and persuade him to take your wife instead, since you seem quite at ease with _that_ idea (Edward) I _despise_ that idea. But he is my _Eisenfurst_. (@Morgan) So you would not stand up for what is right... I see. (Edward) I would do my duty to my Kongsreich and my country, so would Mina. (@Morgan) I'm sure she'll appreciate hearing that. Get out of my sight Edward (Edward) Not until I can be sure you won't do anything that will harm Sudlachenburg. (@Morgan) Dont worry, I'll surrender my title before I kill anyone important * Edward scowls (Edward) The hell you will. (@Morgan) You will not dictate what I do or do not do. Now get out * Edward glares at him (Edward) Fine. * Edward walks out, slamming the door hard behind him * @Morgan rolls his shoulders before exiting the room (Edward) **he sees no-one in the hall ** You're now known as Molly * Molly comes out of the chapel, heading towards the room she left her husband in. There's nothing at all to be read in her expression or body language when she gets to him, standing about eight feet away. (Molly) His Grace will see you now. (@Morgan) I'm not interested in him right now * Molly nods slightly (@Morgan) I am interested in you * Molly nods slightly again (Molly) I have made no decision yet. I have much to think on. (@Morgan) What did he say? (Molly) That he will discuss the proposal with you whilst awaiting my choice. * Molly has not lost that neutral look (@Morgan) I do not intend to influence your choice with undue pressure... you need support to decide. * Molly nods (Molly) When I am calmer, I would welcome that. (@Morgan) What do you wish to do now? (Molly) Ride, which I cannot. (@Morgan) Then you need to choose something else * Molly thinks (Molly) I am going for a walk * @Morgan nods (@Morgan) what would you have me do? (Molly) You are not seeing His Grace? (@Morgan) If that is what you wish of me * Molly frowns (Molly) You are not at my command. (@Morgan) No, I'm not. (Molly) Then what do you _want_ to do? (@Morgan) I want to know what you wish me to do (Molly) Come with me, but understand that I am unpleasant company right now (@Morgan) It'll be like spending time with myself then. * Molly smiles despite herself, and heads towards the nearest door * @Morgan follows her (Molly) **She heads north west, towards the forest and the sudlache, through the lesser used gardens and into the trees. Now and then she stops to pick up stones, gathering up the top layer of skirts to carry them in * Molly doesn't talk along the way, just watching the ground ahead of them. She leads them about ten minutes from the house, where the trees have started to blend from normal wood to black bark, and where the shoreline mixes small pebble to fallen folliage * @Morgan scowls at the trees * Molly lays her pile of rocks, a decent, likely heavy pile, near the lapping edge. She takes off her boots and stockings whilst sat on a fallen tree. (@Morgan) What are you doing? (Molly) Taking off my boots (@Morgan) You've been spending too much time taking conversational lessons from the Nieblungen * Molly stands, twisting her skirts and then tucking them into the waist band so her lower legs are uncovered (Molly) I warned you I was unpleasant company, I am afraid * Molly walks to the water's edge, collecting a stone on the way (@Morgan) And still the only company I wish to have * Molly nods a little before throwing the rock as hard as she can out into the Sudlache * Molly tests the weight of the next before throwing it slightly further. This is clearly a skill she really does not have, as her throws do not go far (@Morgan) Is that helping? (Molly) A little, yes (@Morgan) Have you thought about skipping them? Give you something to focus on * Molly throws another, channelling her anger through it (Molly) I think they are too round * @Morgan shrugs (@Morgan) you can skip a brick if you throw it right * Molly glances at the pile and then him (Molly) Help yourself * Molly throws another as hard as she can * @Morgan sits down, taking out his knife and working on the groove in one of the sharpened sticks (@Morgan) What did Varick want? * Molly continues throwing her stones (Molly) He wanted to see I was alright (@Morgan) oh? * Molly throws a heavy one. It lands about four feet in the water with a splash (Molly) So I lied and said I was fine. * @Morgan nods (Molly) I did not tell him that I am trapped, and I loathe being trapped beyond almost everything else. * Molly flings another rock with frustrated anger (Molly) And now, bloody Edward! **The next rock is thrown with a quiet noise of rage** (@Morgan) He is, in his misguided way, trying to help (Molly) Well he can take his help elsewhere. * @Morgan nods * Molly watches the next rock send ripples across the surface (Molly) I will not have my body traded like a commodity, ever. * @Morgan nods * Molly doesn't see him nod, still glaring at the lake (Molly) It disgusts me. Utterly. (@Morgan) Aye * Molly picks up another rock, throwing it * @Morgan fiddles with the rope before flicking his wrist and sending a projectile across the lake * Molly jumps not expecting it * Molly throws the last rock before sitting on the ground unceremoniously (Molly) I won't be Sudlachenburg's whore, no matter what noble man would ask it. * Molly watches him, deadly serious (@Morgan) I'd kill any man who expected it (Molly) Then you may wish to dig Edward a grave for his advice that I should consider that I have a duty to the Grafdom. * Molly pokes around in the pebbles, neutrality gone, now replaced with anger (@Morgan) It can be arranged (Molly) When I am calmer, I will argue as to why he should be spared. But right now even the thought of him makes me feel angry. (@Morgan) What did the Eisenfurst say about my heritage also being an issue? * Molly finds a stick about an inch in diameter and eight long, using it to gouge and stab the pebbles (Molly) That it is a factor that must be considered * Molly digs a deep hole with the stick (Molly) This is ridiculous. I feel like a pawn in a power game, and no matter where I move I get taken on the next turn! *she sighs frustratedly * (@Morgan) I won't allow that (Molly) I don't see how you can stop that (@Morgan) I'll kill anyone who tries * Molly digs deeper, pulling up pebbles with her hands (Molly) This is what nobility really is? The manipulation, the power struggles. (@Morgan) I'm working on that * Molly nods briefly, digging further (Molly) I did not even imagine I would get pushed like this * @Morgan nods (@Morgan) Push back (Molly) I cannot right now (@Morgan) why? (Molly) Because I do not have a plan or an answer (@Morgan) If what he is offering is not enough to make an answer easy, he has not offered enough. (Molly) The answer would nor be easy even if he offered me the whole konigsreich (Molly) Not* * Molly doesn't look up, still angrily digging (@Morgan) No, but since he's making you decide, drag more from him. (Molly) He has nothing I want (@Morgan) So? If he is determined to play a political game in such a way, it needs to cost him more. * Molly stabs the bottom of the hole (Molly) Politics is for the nobility, not girls like me. I don't know what the hell I am doing, liebes herz! (@Morgan) Nor do I, blossom. If I'd acted as I would have a year ago, he'd already be dead and, arguably, so would I... eventually * Molly frowns, glancing up (Molly) Why? (@Morgan) Well, there's probably enough guards to overpower me... * Molly nods briefly, waiting for him to continue as she scrapes out mud (@Morgan) If you poke a hole in the underside of Eisen and it sinks, I'll not be best impressed * Molly speaks quietly (Molly) I will try not to * Molly still continues (Molly) I do not want the responsibility of this. (@Morgan) You wish me to take the burden from you? (Molly) I don't want you to have it either. (@Morgan) One of us must. * Molly frowns deeply, digging hard (Molly) It isn't fair. (@Morgan) No, its not... what are the consequences of refusing? * Molly takes a deep breath, engaging her puzzle solving brain (Molly) I refuse. The Koertigs do not benefit from it, and we could lose standing with His Grace. The Konigsreich, and Eisen, does not get stronger through it. Capperlucia becomes aligned with a country that burns it's own people for not attending church, with all the potential consequences of that. (@Morgan) And the consequences of doing what he wants? (Molly) Avalon may act to gain the influence back by claiming I am a citizen by birth and therefore Capperlucia should be recognised and linked there instead. It could affect the standing of the Hockridge name. I no longer have my Avalon citizenship. I have betrayed Siegfried who did so much for me. I could lose my title and citizenship of Capperlucia * Molly sighs heavily, sticking her hands into the mud to dig with her fingers (@Morgan) Alright... so, Sigfried... He would not have foreseen my returning to Eisen, or all of this... had he seen that, would he have still asked you to give the charts to her? Given the consequences for an act such as not attending church... * Molly thinks hard, using her index finger to lever up a stone (Molly) I... I don't know. How did he react when he knew you were Eisen nobility? (@Morgan) He didn't recoil if thats what you're asking (Molly) I meant more whether he seemed to trust you more * Molly wipes the stone on her skirt (@Morgan) He was my friend. I believe he trusted me regardless * Molly looks at the stone a moment, then stands (Molly) This is not our decision to make, is it? (@Morgan) and whose is it? * Molly walks to the water, stepping in (Molly) Siegfrieds. * @Morgan scrambles to his feet (@Morgan) out of there please * Molly washes the stone in the water before stepping out (@Morgan) I dont see how we can ask him I'm afraid * Molly stares at her hand (Molly) We would have to find him ** You are now disconnected (Software caused connection abort) ------------------------------ Logging started for Blitzed:#7thseaic on Thursday, 8 October 2020 14:55:53 British Summer Time ------------------------------ ** Reconnecting to irc.blitzed.org:6667… -NickServ- Welcome to Blitzed IRC Network, MollyK! Here on Blitzed IRC Network, we provide services to enable the registration of nicknames and channels! For details, type /msg NickServ help and /msg ChanServ help. ** You have joined #7thseaic (@Morgan) And how would that sit with the Eisenfurst? (MollyK) Would he want one of his Grafs making such a monumental decision about the Konigsreich's future Without his approval? * MollyK comes over to him (@Morgan) unlikely (MollyK) Exactly. *she shows him her hand* ** You are now disconnected (Software caused connection abort) ------------------------------ Logging started for Blitzed:#7thseaic on Thursday, 8 October 2020 14:59:49 British Summer Time ------------------------------ ** Reconnecting to irc.blitzed.org:6667… -NickServ- Welcome to Blitzed IRC Network, MK! Here on Blitzed IRC Network, we provide services to enable the registration of nicknames and channels! For details, type /msg NickServ help and /msg ChanServ help. ** You have joined #7thseaic ** Molly has quit (Ping timeout: 250 seconds) * MK shows him an oval stone, an inch at the longest point. It is one of the stones like in the heirloom necklace, a drachenstone (@Morgan) a most unusual thing to find ** MollyK has quit (Ping timeout: 260 seconds) (MK) I've never seen one like this (@Morgan) its a drachenstone I believe * MK smiles (MK) It's beautiful * @Morgan nods (@Morgan) the necklace that you were meant to wear is made with those stones * MK presses into his palm (MK) May I give it to you, as a token of apology? (@Morgan) If you wish to * MK leaves it in his hand (MK) One day, I am going to stop making so many errors (@Morgan) maybe. Its more or less what people do ** You are now disconnected (Software caused connection abort) ------------------------------ Logging started for Blitzed:#7thseaic on Thursday, 8 October 2020 15:20:05 British Summer Time ------------------------------ ** Reconnecting to irc.blitzed.org:6667… -NickServ- Welcome to Blitzed IRC Network, MollyK! Here on Blitzed IRC Network, we provide services to enable the registration of nicknames and channels! For details, type /msg NickServ help and /msg ChanServ help. ** You have joined #7thseaic * MollyK smiles slightly (MollyK) I suppose so. *she goes back to stand at the water's edge* * MollyK speaks quietly ** MK has quit (Ping timeout: 260 seconds) (MollyK) We hold off on going to court in Avalon. We find Siegfried. We layout who and where we are now, and the positive influence we can wield with His Grace for Capperlucia where we have none with Queen Elaine. We ask him to choose Eisen over Avalon. But ultimately, Capperlucias future is decided by its sovereign. * @Morgan nods (@Morgan) very well (MollyK) It was a proposal, not a command (@Morgan) it makes sense (MollyK) Is it fair? (@Morgan) I'd say so (@Morgan) or as fair as we can make it at least (MollyK) It could mean months of travelling * MollyK glances over her shoulder to see what he is doing * @Morgan is still looking at the stone (@Morgan) That it may be. Write to him... last time I wrote to him he appeared to help me * MollyK nods (MollyK) And if that does not work, we will not be able to put off a three month trip to Capperlucia * MollyK watches his reaction (@Morgan) Perhaps (MollyK) So... the question is then, what do we want for halting the plan, and for exerting our influence in the Konigsreich's favour... * @Morgan shrugs (@Morgan) title, payments, land * MollyK nods slowly (MollyK) You have land in mind? (@Morgan) No, actually * MollyK smiles (MollyK) You think you would like being a Duke, liebes herz? * @Morgan shrugs (@Morgan) maybe, but that isn't the point is it (MollyK) No, but that is the titles he was planning to offer should Capperlucia have it's official recognition from the Konigsreich (@Morgan) Something higher, then... for the trouble and conflict it is causing, he has not offered enough * MollyK looks thoughful (MollyK) Is there such a thing? We would already outrank your parents (MollyK) ((There's archduke/archduchess, which would be only one step down from Isiah as the crown prince/heir of the Eisenfurst)) ** Morgan has quit (Quit: This computer has gone to sleep) ** Morgan has joined #7thseaic ** ChanServ sets mode(s) +o Morgan (@Morgan) I don't know Siegfried would expect us to go and find him to ask... when he gave you those charts and title, he asked you to take it to the queen because she's the only one we'd be likely to at the time... * MollyK ponders on this (MollyK) You think it lack of options rather than a clear preference? * @Morgan nods * MollyK watches him (MollyK) Then you think I should relinquish my Avalon citizenship and have Capperlucia officially recognised and tied to Fischler instead? (@Morgan) That is not my decision to make... I think the latter part of that makes most sense, especially given Siegfrieds nature, but to give up your avalonian citizenship... (MollyK) What is it you _want_ to do? Would you prefer a Capperlucia-Eisen alliance over a Capperlucia-Avalon one? * @Morgan nods * MollyK nods slowly (@Morgan) Long term I think that would be a better tie for capperlucia (MollyK) I think Siegfried is pragmatic enough that a link with a known ruler would be best * @Morgan nods (@Morgan) I agree (MollyK) Plus, given the culture and skills of the populace, would be want Avalon having a skilled army of warriors and a silver dragon aligned with her against your lands in Eisen? (MollyK) We* (@Morgan) Not particularly... (MollyK) He would want me to act as an ambassador, for a little while at least, I think (@Morgan) Definitely not enough (MollyK) I do not understand (@Morgan) his vague offer... given what it means giving up, and the work involved... its simply not enough (MollyK) It would make life complicated... * MollyK sits down on the fallen tree to watch him (@Morgan) That would not be anything new (MollyK) We would need to think about the agreement you made with your father about settling in Eisen within three years (@Morgan) That would mean an amendment, rather than breaking a promise * MollyK watches him (MollyK) And we would need to think carefully about delaying having children for many years if we are to be making frequent long voyages (@Morgan) Another factor he would need to consider * MollyK nods (MollyK) Also your Freiarrdom and Varicks * @Morgan nods (@Morgan) I daresay Varick would like the voyaging * MollyK nods slowly (MollyK) And if he did not, I suppose nothing would prevent you and he remaining in Eisen whilst I worked away a while (@Morgan) I dont see that happening * MollyK shrugs a little (MollyK) It does not do to dismiss it out of hand though. If I take on such a large duty, it could lead to times when I must be there and you must be here (@Morgan) Your place is with me... if you must be away, then so must I, and the Koenigsreich will have to cater to that * MollyK bows her head (MollyK) It is not what you signed up for when you married me (@Morgan) No, its not * MollyK squares her shoulders a little (MollyK) If it is too much, I will understand (@Morgan) I dont understand what you're saying * MollyK exhales slowly (MollyK) If you do not want the increased burden of my additional duty, I will understand if you can no longer stay married to me. *she looks tense, looking at her hands, obviously burdened* (@Morgan) I would command that you would not undertake them before I let you go * MollyK nods slowly (MollyK) Thank you * @Morgan nods slightly (MollyK) We would not have the quiet settled life in Innesbruck that we had planned (@Morgan) not yet, no * MollyK looks sad (MollyK) I was looking forward to giving you that peaceful stable home that you deserved * @Morgan nods (@Morgan) as was I * MollyK sighs (MollyK) I worry that you will not be happy (@Morgan) If I am with you, I will be happy (MollyK) I hope so, liebling * MollyK watches his expression (MollyK) So we will acceed to his wishes on having Capperlucia recognised by the Konigsreich. We want better terms. I need to think about my citizenship, and whether if I decide to relinquish it I just wait until I have no other choice * @Morgan nods * MollyK watches him (MollyK) Do we want Maubourgs Grafdom? (@Morgan) I'm not sure thats possible, given that thats who Isiah is to marry. It may be worth trying, though. Archduke, maybe... (MollyK) What is an Archduke? (@Morgan) Its a duke that mostly looks like a span of a bridge * MollyK frowns (MollyK) I could throw you in the Sudlache, liebes herz... (@Morgan) You couldn't, I'm too heavy * MollyK giggles (MollyK) Too big and solid... (@Morgan) Quite... its like a Duke but... higher (MollyK) That would be a very grand title... * MollyK thinks a minute (MollyK) If not a Grafdom, you are just thinking more Freiarrships? Or expanding the Sudlachenburg boundaries? (@Morgan) A Grafdom would suit me, but I cannot ignore my duty to Sudlachenburg (MollyK) The blending the Grafdoms of the Koertigs and the Maubourgs in the long term would make sense (MollyK) Then* (@Morgan) Yes it would * MollyK nods (MollyK) It is going to be a lot of work (@Morgan) Realistically, did we expect any different? * MollyK shrugs a little, looking a little avoidant, brushing off the soles of her feet (MollyK) I suppose not (@Morgan) Say you don't want any of it, and we'll accept the consequences and find ourselves somewhere quiet to be * MollyK sighs (MollyK) I just want you to be happy. You once told me you were happiest with your own little home, growing your own food, fixing your own fence... And I cannot give you that. (@Morgan) I was a different person then. * MollyK nods slowly (MollyK) I think I told myself I could give you something like that peace and happiness back, if we could just be in Innesbruck... (@Morgan) and if that was a possibility, I'm sure you could, though even that would not be possible. We are responsible for too much * MollyK puts her stockings back on (MollyK) Yes we are (MollyK) We will just have to make our happiness wherever we end up * @Morgan nods (@Morgan) exactly * MollyK mentally shakes herself off (MollyK) Archduke and archduchess titles, Maubourgs Grafdom... exclusive rights for trade between Fischler and Capperlucia? * @Morgan nods (@Morgan) payments, preferential trade rights for the koenigsreich... (@Morgan) We'll see how badly he wants it... * MollyK nods (MollyK) We also want to be able to commandeer other ships bearing the Fischler flag for aid and crew if needed? * @Morgan nods (@Morgan) very good * MollyK blushes (MollyK) I do not generally agree that impressment is a good way to crew a ship, but it could be useful to have the right to. * @Morgan nods (@Morgan) The difference in this case would be we would only do it if absolutely necessary * MollyK nods (MollyK) I would rather have loyal, happy crew. It saves much time and effort in fixing injuries * @Morgan nods (MollyK) I would serve as an ambassador, for the first few years, but not for more than a set amount of travel or time? * @Morgan nods (@Morgan) That would be a wise condition (MollyK) Perhaps a maximum of two trips per year? That would be around twenty weeks a year if we did not linger overmuch. * @Morgan nods * MollyK nods (MollyK) That is still a very long time (@Morgan) Yes it is * MollyK looks thoughtful (MollyK) And if you get me with child, I take the time off as I need to, because I absolutely cannot risk taking pennyroyal (@Morgan) absolutely (@Morgan) That is non negotiable * MollyK nods (MollyK) I will start using a sponge soaked in brandy in addition to the herbs * @Morgan nods * MollyK nods slowly (MollyK) We want ships built with due haste that should be given to ship building contracts from His Grace directly? (@Morgan) That would make sense (MollyK) And we want an investment towards them upfront? (@Morgan) Only fair, I would think (MollyK) Or do you wish to own them outright yourself? (@Morgan) I want to own them, but an outlay to get them moving would be... suitable, I think * MollyK nods (MollyK) A thousand a piece, to be safe. Three thousand? (@Morgan) To be repaid? (MollyK) Through you taking a lower cut of the profits * @Morgan nods * MollyK suddenly looks awkward * @Morgan watches her (MollyK) I am sorry, I am being far too forthright in this. These should be your decisions (@Morgan) If I encounter something I object to, I'll let you know... * MollyK nods slowly (MollyK) I think you should pay for the next two yourself. Establish a safe base should we need to throw it all away and start over somewhere. (@Morgan) That would leave me with four ships (MollyK) Four? * MollyK looks confused (@Morgan) The rose, the one being built now for five hundred guilders, then the next two... (MollyK) Oh, I was including the current one. * MollyK shrugs (MollyK) Four is fine * MollyK smiles to herself a moment, shaking her head (@Morgan) Realisically with my savings I could afford to buy them myself.... (MollyK) Six thousand will only get you so far though (@Morgan) Thats six ships... plus my savings from working... * MollyK frowns (MollyK) Your payment from the stewardship went on food for innesbruck (@Morgan) yes I know... (@Morgan) I still have an allowance from my father, also * MollyK nods (MollyK) That is how you will keep me clothed... *she smiles* (@Morgan) Thats where the payments for our services from the Koenigsreich will come in handy * MollyK nods (MollyK) So take no money for the ships, leaving you the freedom to walk away with a fleet at the end of the initial contract time, should you wish to? (@Morgan) That makes sense I think * MollyK nods (MollyK) How much for payment? ((His stewardship was 1000G per year from Innes and Koln. He gets 850g a year from Adalbrecht)) (@Morgan) Given the sacrifices, it needs to be significant * MollyK nods (MollyK) But it does also need to be balanced by the value the trade and prestige the link will give * @Morgan nods (MollyK) Would you want the Grafdom now, or upon Maubourgs death? (@Morgan) it would upset the Maubourgs greatly if it were now * MollyK watches him, staying utterly straight faced (MollyK) It would. * MollyK smiles a little (MollyK) But it would also require work, and a transition of power that will mean you need to spend several months in Eisen. * @Morgan nods * MollyK looks thoughtful (MollyK) Unless it is arranged between His Grace and Maubourg that upon his death it comes to you, and His Grace appoints a trusted overseer to make sure it is being run appropriately in the interim (@Morgan) You think that would be the better option? * MollyK shrugs (MollyK) It is the option that gives you the most personal freedom to do the things we wished to in Freiburg and Avalon whilst waiting for the next ships and sailing to Capperlucia * @Morgan nods * MollyK smiles a little (MollyK) But on the flip side of that, the notorious Koertig ambition... * @Morgan nods * MollyK smirks (MollyK) I suspect being an Archduke would tide you over until you were a Graf... * @Morgan nods (@Morgan) I think it would rankle father to not be able to order me around so readily (MollyK) He would not be able to order you around at all as an Archduke, would he? (@Morgan) No, I dont believe so * MollyK giggles (MollyK) He would just command you as your father, no doubt (@Morgan) He'd try, aye * MollyK looks intrigued (MollyK) How do you address an Archduke? Is it Your Grace, as with an Eisenfurst? ((It's Your/His/Her Excellency)) (@Morgan) Excellency, I believe... (MollyK) Oh dear lord! That will kill Heinzharold! * MollyK laughs softly * @Morgan nods (MollyK) I have one more condition... (@Morgan) oh? * MollyK looks serious (MollyK) He never, _ever_ asks us to keep something from one another again, no matter what. * @Morgan nods (@Morgan) I'm happy with that * MollyK nods (MollyK) So we have made a decision? (@Morgan) It would appear so (MollyK) And you are happy with it? (@Morgan) I think so... perhaps an extra little note that I can make changes before Maubourg has passed * MollyK nods (MollyK) Do you think we need to stay another day to iron it out and get things in place ? (@Morgan) Lets see what we can get done today... he wanted time set aside to discuss shipping anyway * MollyK nods (MollyK) How do you wish to handle this? *she gets her boot, and slides her skirt back up above her knees ------------------------------ Logging started for Blitzed:#7thseaic on Thursday, 8 October 2020 21:55:43 British Summer Time ------------------------------ ** You have joined #7thseaic (@Morgan) Do you think we need to stay another day to iron it out and get things in place ? (@Morgan) Lets see what we can get done today... he wanted time set aside to discuss shipping anyway (@Morgan) * MollyK nods (@Morgan) How do you wish to handle this? *she gets her boot, and slides her skirt back up above her knees (@Morgan) In what respect? (Molly) Telling him I have come to a decision ** MollyK has quit (Ping timeout: 250 seconds) * Molly starts putting on her boot (@Morgan) We can just go and tell him now, he is ready to see me as I recall (Molly) And tell him that I broke the confidence? * Molly laces up, then does the other (@Morgan) Perhaps he needs to understand that his will is not above the sanctity of our marriage... * Molly nods (Molly) You will be reminding him of that, I suspect (@Morgan) If you do not wish him to know you have told me, you could tell him it is a decision you are not willing to make without me (Molly) No. He needs to understand what he did was wrong and unfair * @Morgan nods * Molly stands up. She watches him a moment (Molly) Liebes herz? (@Morgan) yes? (Molly) When Edward said about him taking me as a mistress... (@Morgan) yes... * Molly watches his expression closely (Molly) Did you believe him? (@Morgan) Given that it was suggested before by someone else, word of your desire to then your absolute refusal to tell me... * Molly nods slowly (Molly) I see (@Morgan) It was not something I entertained until you would not tell me... * Molly nods (Molly) I am glad to hear that (Molly) What did you assume it was, if not that? * @Morgan shrugs (@Morgan) I did not * Molly nods (Molly) And if it had been the case...? (@Morgan) Then the fact you desired it would be enough to see this brought asunder (Molly) Our marriage? * @Morgan nods (@Morgan) If you desired to be the mistress of another... * Molly nods (Molly) I would have hoped you knew that would never, ever happen (@Morgan) Until you refused to tell me... * Molly nods (Molly) I can understand that would have been... displeasing * @Morgan nods * Molly looks sad (Molly) Are you still furious at me? (@Morgan) No. (Molly) *quieter* Are you still disappointed in me? (@Morgan) I'll get over it * Molly nods slowly (Molly) I hope so * @Morgan nods (Molly) But you still love me? (@Morgan) of course * Molly nods, breathing slowly (Molly) Good. Because I would not survive the answer to that being no. * @Morgan nods, picking up the sticks * Molly brushes the dried mud off her skirt, looking around the trees around them (Molly) Well, I suppose we had best go back and get on with it. * @Morgan nods * Molly starts walking (Molly) Edward defied my command as Veisgrafin. (@Morgan) did he? (Molly) Yes. I commanded him to stand down from guarding His Grace from you, and he refused (@Morgan) Does his duty to protect the Eisenfurst from a perceived threat override the command of his Veisgrafin... (Molly) Do I need the safety of knowing that he will follow my commands so I know that my life is not at risk from him? * @Morgan nods (@Morgan) It will be addressed (Molly) I know it probably seems very paranoid... (@Morgan) I don't believe he is a risk to you, but your point is valid * Molly frowns a little (Molly) It is important that he views me as your _Veisgrafin_, not just your wife. (@Morgan) absolutely it is (@Morgan) As I said, it will be addressed * Molly nods, distracted (Molly) I have spoken to Varick about Atemlos (@Morgan) oh? (Molly) He did not know about Jana * @Morgan frowns (@Morgan) I thought I'd told him (Molly) No, you told him about "the lady in the village who was nice" * @Morgan nods (@Morgan) I see (Molly) He understands that we will be giving you the space and time you need, and that we will come back to you when you are ready for that (@Morgan) thank you * Molly nods a little (Molly) I also know what your father and Edward had their garters knotted over * Molly walks along at a medium pace, not at ease but not on edge either, quite neutral (@Morgan) oh? (Molly) Me, and how I would feel about you going away (Molly) It was nothing dangerous at all (@Morgan) And they felt I should not know (Molly) They felt you would see it as meddling or being judgemental * @Morgan nods (@Morgan) I see (Molly) So you can set your mind at ease that it was not something to be concerned over * @Morgan nods (Molly) I have told him that if he has any concerns like that in future, he should bring them to me so I can tell him to mind him own damned business *her expression gives nothing away* * @Morgan nods (@Morgan) good * Molly laughs (Molly) I actually did not say that, I was teasing you (@Morgan) Its almost a shame (Molly) I told him his concern was noted * @Morgan nods * Molly walks along, thoughtful but not speaking (Molly) *the gardens are warm, though no-one seems to be working, as it is a Sunday * (@Morgan) Father apologised for trying to force me to church (Molly) Oh, good. He needs to just leave it alone. * @Morgan nods (Molly) Do we need to go to His Grace immediately? (@Morgan) I think getting it underway would be wise, dont you? (Molly) I need coffee then. I had already dealt with multiple difficult conversations before you and I even started to talk about this situation, and frankly I am just exhausted. (@Morgan) If you wish to hold off, thats what we'll do (Molly) No. As always I will soldier on. * Molly squares her shoulders a moment (@Morgan) If you are sure... I am content to wait and deal with Edward first * Molly just shrugs (Molly) Whichever, liebes herz (Molly) **they get to a door (@Morgan) blossom... if you need time to relax for a while, we'll wait and I'll deal with Edward (Molly) I need to sleep. I laid down with Varick earlier whilst we talked, but he fell asleep whilst we were crying, and then I could not settle to sleep. (@Morgan) Then lets get you some sleep * Molly nods with a sigh (@Morgan) As far as I'm concerned the world can stop spinning until you are ready * Molly smiles a little (Molly) That's sweet (@Morgan) its true (Molly) Thank you, liebes herz. You're good to me. * @Morgan shrugs * Molly heads towards the stair case and up, clearly getting slower as time goes on * @Morgan hands her the sticks before picking her up * Molly giggles (Molly) I can walk, liebling (@Morgan) Clearly you are tired. * @Morgan carries her to the nursery (Molly) **Marta looks at her, frowning a little then looks at Morgan. She opens the bedroom door for them * @Morgan nods to her, carrying her through to the bed (Molly) **Marta gently pulls the door closed behind them, giving them privacy * @Morgan sits her on the end of the bed * Molly watches him, her expression a little solemn (Molly) I can manage, liebes herz (@Morgan) I know * Molly starts undoing her boot laces (@Morgan) Get some rest blossom * Molly nods (Molly) I will do my best * @Morgan nods (@Morgan) I'm sure * Molly gets her boots off (Molly) It's fine, you can go * @Morgan salutes (@Morgan) aye aye cap'n * Molly smiles a little, before working on her stockings (Molly) I will see you later * @Morgan nods, heading out of the door ** You're now known as Marta * Marta is clearly waiting for him (@Morgan) Marta... (Marta) Is she crying yet? (@Morgan) Not yet... why? (Marta) In my job, you quickly learn to read faces, and your wife is particularly easy to read. * Marta looks a little unimpressed * @Morgan nods (@Morgan) its been a tough morning * Marta nods (Marta) I can see. * @Morgan nods (Marta) You are going now? (@Morgan) you have an issue with that? (Marta) No, it is fine. I do not like my patients being so distressed, that is all. We will be fine here. (@Morgan) I do not like her distressed either. If you wish to berate me, do so. I'd rather you don't beat about the bush * Marta watches him (Marta) I do not wish to berate you, but I would advise you to have a care with her. (@Morgan) I _do_ (Marta) Then I hope not to see her come back in this state again. * @Morgan sighs (Marta) Where will you be if she wants you? (@Morgan) I'm going to speak to Edward. Other than that, probably in the gardens * Marta nods briefly (Marta) I would expect she will go to sleep afterwards for half an hour or so * @Morgan nods (@Morgan) If you expect me to be needed I will stay (Marta) I would be surprised if we did * @Morgan nods (@Morgan) then I will be on my way. I won't be far if I'm needed * Marta nods (Marta) Alright * @Morgan nods heading out of the suite (Marta) **before he's even fully closed the door, he can hear Marta open the door to the bedroom * @Morgan stops, backing up a step (Marta) **He can quietly hear Marta saying "Oh dear, lets get you some tea made, shall we?" * @Morgan hangs his head, leaving ** You are now disconnected ------------------------------ Logging started for Blitzed:#7thseaic on Friday, 9 October 2020 08:42:40 British Summer Time ------------------------------ ** You have joined #7thseaic ** cantillon.be.eu.blitzed.org sets mode(s) +nt ** ChanServ sets mode(s) -o Molly