------------------------------ Logging started for Blitzed:#7thseaic on Tuesday, 17 November 2020 10:55:03 Greenwich Mean Time ------------------------------ ** You have joined #7thseaic (@Morgan) I don't think so (@Morgan) * Sorgi nods (@Morgan) Alright. I will be checking over the ship ready for sailing on Saturday afternoon with the tide. Are we headed for Freiburg, or waiting on what comes of the possible Picante contract? (@Morgan) We'll see what comes... I'll check the ship over saturday morning... not to slight you... I find it calming, a part of getting ready to sail (@Morgan) * Sorgi smiles (@Morgan) Of course (@Morgan) * Sorgi is right, it gets dark on the last leg of the journey. The dock of Zweibrucke is lit with lanterns, and the tavern is singing one of the songs that was being sung in Paan whilst Molly was being very brazen to him beneath the table. However, as he spots the ship that was once hers, she seems very far away. (Molly) **The gang plank is down. There's a few of the crew on deck, but they all seem occupied with tasks. ** You're now known as Sorgi * Sorgi looks up at the ship, smiling a little (Sorgi) It's good to be back. * @Morgan nods (Sorgi) Do you want me to take the horses and get them stabled? * @Morgan nods (@Morgan) please * Sorgi dismounts, waiting for Morgan's horse * @Morgan climbs down, handing him the reins * Sorgi takes both horses, leaving Morgan on the dock with his bag and father's cloak. The tavern moves on to What Shall We Do With The Drunken Sailor * @Morgan scowls before heading onto the ship (Sorgi) **At the top of the gang plank, on the balustrade, someone has installed an iron horse shoe. * @Morgan runs his fingers over it (Sorgi) **A few sailors checking over the last things that would normally be checked are doing so, all bowing to Morgan. Koen, the young man who defied his father to show Morgan Xantha who was left in charge in Sorgis absence is drying his hands on a rag as he comes up the stairs onto the deck ** You're now known as Koen (Koen) Good evening, my Lord (@Morgan) Koen (Koen) Will you be wanting an update, or should I just give it to Captain Sorgenheim? (@Morgan) I'll not ask you to repeat yourself, give it to the captain unless there's anything specific I should know (Koen) Not really, some of it is just general ship and crew management , some of it is gossip from the port (@Morgan) gossip I'll go for... (Koen) The Lady Natasha left the day after you all did. The Lusty Wench got taken into dry dock for a week and repaired * @Morgan nods (@Morgan) good * Koen leans against the mast (Koen) Mr Gottlieb is doing well after his injury, almost back to full strength (@Morgan) Good, I'm glad to hear that (Koen) What else? Oh, some investigators for Eisenfurst Hainzl came to look at the arson and take statements. Perpetrator was hung. * @Morgan nods (Koen) A few other ships have come and gone. There's a couple of new ones at the moment, a Vodacce one and a Montaigne one. (@Morgan) Montaigne? * Koen nods (Koen) Due to sail back out tomorrow, belongs to the Emporer (@Morgan) Ah, that lot (Koen) You know them, my Lord? (@Morgan) I dealt with them, aye (Koen) Posh, but no trouble * Koen speaks quieter (Koen) One of the crew thinks he saw them loading a body, but that was a night they were all given the night off, so they could have been under the influence, my Lord * @Morgan nods (@Morgan) No, they did, one of their fallen kin * Koen nods (Koen) Fair enough, my Lord. **he looks to think a minute* Ship that was in one of the dry docks for a mercenary company is now being finished in the water * @Morgan looks to be thinking (@Morgan) Dau's company... * Koen has no idea who this is (Koen) Schwert von dornen company, my Lord * @Morgan nods (@Morgan) Would you send someone to fetch Sinan Gottlieb? I need to speak with him * Koen calls to Adam, the sole Avalon sailor they have left, who is a friend of Molly's brother and she had a bit of a crush on when she was quite young (Koen) **He bows to Morgan before and after being given this instruction, and heads off* (Koen) Oh, and to replace that ship in the dry dock, they started on your next ship three days ago * @Morgan nods (@Morgan) excellent * Koen watches as Sorgi comes aboard (Koen) I found Mr Schulz a room *he gives him a room number* (@Morgan) Speaking of which, he has my guitar (Koen) **Sorgi touches the horseshoe automatically* (Koen) He was being very careful with it. I've put it in your quarters, and your correspondence is there too * @Morgan nods (@Morgan) Once Mr Gottlieb arrives, please bring him to me (Koen) Cook can make you food if you want some * @Morgan nods (@Morgan) a little... and coffee, please * Koen sets another crew member on this task, and bows to Morgan (Koen) If you'll excuse me so I can update the Captain * @Morgan nods, surveying the deck briefly before heading to his quarters (Koen) **Everything looks orderly and clean. He descends the stairs, and about halfway down he hears an odd noise * @Morgan listens (Koen) **it's a noise of movement from under the stairs * @Morgan goes to investigate (Koen) **Captain Ulysses barrels out from behind the stairs, wild eyed and lively, streaking up the corridor (@Morgan) Come back here Captain (Koen) **The cat spins around, running towards Morgan * @Morgan crouches down (@Morgan) Come on (Koen) **He starts to purr, rubbing against Morgan's legs * @Morgan picks him up before heading towards his quarters again (Koen) *he continues to purr. He gets back to his quarters without interruption. It smells of wood polish and very faintly of rose water. ((Attention?)) (@Morgan) ((surveying the room)) (Koen) **The desk is different * @Morgan frowns, going to look at it (Koen) **it's blue topped, identical to the one in his study in the Veisgrafs wing at Die Dauerhaftigkeit that she had arranged as a wedding present after he had lamented a certain sort of desk he had always wanted that were only found on certain ships. There's a folded note in the middle of it, and on the corner is a box and some letters * @Morgan goes to read the note (Koen) The note in Avalonian says "Paan, wednesday morning. North to my compass, a surprise gift for you. I hope you like it. I arranged it before we left Zweibrucke, but I look forward to sitting upon it in a few days. More than more than life itself, Your blossom xx" * @Morgan smiles, shrugging off his cloak and bag (Koen) *Captain Ulysses goes back to streaking around at high speed * @Morgan mutters (@Morgan) lunatic (Koen) *The cat climbs up the back of the couch where Morgan's new guitar has been carefully placed * @Morgan moves it to somewhere safe before sitting at the desk (Koen) **there's a knock at the door (@Morgan) Come (Koen) **The cook comes in, carrying a wooden tray with stew, bread, and a jug of coffee and two cups. He's a man who briefly cooked on one of the ships Morgan served on, a big older man with the skill of making even ships rations bearable (Koen) Welcome back, my Lord ** You're now known as Cook (@Morgan) Thank you... I'm glad we've got such a skilled cook, I remember your talent * Cook looks pleased (Cook) Thank you, my Lord (@Morgan) Your name, however, escapes me I'm afrai (Cook) It's Cook, my Lord * @Morgan raises his eyebrow * Cook smiles (Cook) It's my family name, my Lord * @Morgan nods (Cook) **Captain Ulysses plows into the cook's legs, and he bends down to stroke him* There you are, little fiend. ** mads_ has joined #7thseaic ** Morgan has quit (Killed (NickServ (GHOST command used by mads_))) ** mads_ is now known as Morgan ** ChanServ sets mode(s) +o Morgan (@Morgan) Very well mr Cook, you have my thanks (Cook) [12:44] (Cook) **Captain Ulysses plows into the cook's legs, and he bends down to stroke him* There you are, little fiend. (@Morgan) energetic little fellow isn't it * Cook smiles (Cook) Sneaky as the devil himself too, my Lord * @Morgan nods (@Morgan) loving though... Varick certainly adores him (Cook) **The cat hops up on the desk * Cook bows (Cook) I'll leave you to your meal my Lord (@Morgan) Thank you Mr Cook * Cook goes. Captain Ulysses watches Morgan hopefully * @Morgan picks out a bit of meat, holding it up for the cat (Cook) *he takes it gently, chewing it whilst purring * @Morgan eats some while looking through his correspondence (Cook) **he barely gets a moment to look at the outside of the first letter before there's a knock at the door (@Morgan) Come ** You're now known as Sinan * Sinan is shown in by Koen. He looks like he was off duty by his less formal attire. (Sinan) Good evening, Veisgraf Sudlachenburg (@Morgan) Sinan... you are well? * Sinan nods (Sinan) I am. How is your wife? We heard there had been some trouble in Fischler * @Morgan nods (@Morgan) a great deal, but she's alright now... please, take a seat * Sinan sits, watching Captain Ulysses get down and settle himself on the couch (@Morgan) Coffee? (Sinan) Please. My wife had just poured me some when your messenger arrived. (@Morgan) I'm sorry to have disrupted your evening * @Morgan pours two cups of coffee (Sinan) It's the nature of my job, she is used to it (@Morgan) I wanted to talk to you about the ship you're preparing for the Schwer Von Dornen company... * Sinan sips his coffee (Sinan) Yes? (@Morgan) You recall the description of the man who paid to have the lusty wench scuttled that injured your father? (Sinan) I do (@Morgan) Colonel Dau fits that description perfectly and was responsible for this very ship being sunk * Sinan takes this on board (Sinan) Have you taken evidence of this to the authorities elsewhere? * @Morgan shakes his head (@Morgan) No, his actions against this ship were in Avalon... his destruction of the lusty wench, however... * Sinan nods (Sinan) You are happy to make a statement to this effect? (@Morgan) Of course. I had thought perhaps you had realised when the ship you are building for him was still in dry dock * Sinan shakes his head (Sinan) I have had much on my mind these last two weeks * @Morgan nods (@Morgan) I would imagine so * Sinan sips his coffee (@Morgan) Can I help with that? (Sinan) You and your wife already did by saving my father (@Morgan) He has recovered well? * Sinan nods (Sinan) He is almost back to normal. He has been overseeing the construction of your ship * @Morgan nods (@Morgan) good... I will be having much more trade for you * Sinan smiles (Sinan) I am pleased to hear it (@Morgan) And Eisenfurst Fischler would like you to prioritise them over other orders * Sinan looks intrigued (Sinan) Very good, my Lord (@Morgan) What do you intend to do about Dau? (Sinan) Send to an agent of Eisenfurst Hainzl in the morning. There's been a spate of sinkings in the northern ports. There is a good chance he will be arrested and charged for the actions against the Lusty Wench, and my Father will also press a charge for his injury * @Morgan nods (@Morgan) Good. As much as I would like to deal with him personally... * Sinan nods (Sinan) It will destroy him further to lose everything. * @Morgan shrugs (@Morgan) I'd rather him dead, but things cannot always go my way. What will you do with the contract for the build? (Sinan) I'll need to talk to my Father. It's likely to get tied up for months, and we may need to take her back to dry dock. * @Morgan nods (@Morgan) I'd appreciate knowing what he plans to do with her.... I'd like to help throwing any extra complications Dau's way * Sinan smiles, sipping his coffee (Sinan) I will see what I can find out * @Morgan nods (@Morgan) thank you * @Morgan sips his coffee (Sinan) I can bring you the half hull for your new ship tomorrow if you want to see it ((detailed carved lengthways half to show shape and scale, done as part of the prep/planning phase, often got mounted on a backboard for decoration after use)) * @Morgan shakes his head (@Morgan) Not tomorrow. * Sinan nods, obviously a little confused (@Morgan) It would have been my first wife's birthday tomorrow... * Sinan 's expression suddenly becomes tense and wary as the man who asked what manner of shame and scorn the Veisgraf in front of him would inflict on Sudlachenburg next puts two and two together (Sinan) Ah. Saturday perhaps? My Father had wondered if you would want to help the men lift the sternpost into place tomorrow, but I will tell him it isn't practical. * @Morgan sips his coffee slowly * Sinan finishes his coffee rapidly (@Morgan) No... no I would like to help with that * Sinan nods (@Morgan) a bit of hard work would do my mind good I feel (Sinan) If you're sure. I will send someone at the appropriate time * @Morgan nods * Sinan sets his cup down (@Morgan) Sinan... despite our unpleasant start, I'm glad to have met you * Sinan bows his head (Sinan) Thank you, my Lord. (Sinan) Is there anything else, my Lord? (@Morgan) No, thank you... go spend some time with your wife * Sinan nods, rising and bowing (Sinan) Good night, my Lord * @Morgan nods (@Morgan) Good night Mr Gottlieb * Sinan leaves Morgan to it. The moment he is gone, Captain Ulysses opens his green eyes and comes to sit in the vacated seat, washing his face ** You're now known as CaptUlysses * @Morgan watches the cat for a moment before picking up his letters * CaptUlysses gets up on the table, sniffing the coffee cup (CaptUlysses) **The first letter has a return address of Foxcroft, Catterick, Avalon * @Morgan opens it, speaking quietly (@Morgan) you won't like it * CaptUlysses comes to Morgan, getting in between him and the letter * @Morgan strokes him as he tries to open the letter (CaptUlysses) **It is dated the end of July. "Dear Morgan, many congratulations and felicitations upon your recent marriage! I was surprised to hear you had married an Avalonian woman, but as your Mother is such an incredible, special lady, it is no wonder that your heart leads you into your Father's footsteps. (Mtf) (CaptUlysses) We would love to meet Molly, and hope you will bring her to Catterick soon. Things are well here. With greatest affection, Christopher." ((Done)) * CaptUlysses goes on his back legs, trying to rub his face on Morgan's beard * @Morgan leans forward, allowing the cat to rub into his beard as he picks up another letter (CaptUlysses) **The next is addressed to "Molly", and various addresses have been noted and scored through, with The Purple Rose, Zweibrucke as the last one. It's obviously had some trouble getting to her * CaptUlysses purrs loudly * @Morgan opens it, kissing the top of the cats head (CaptUlysses) Dear Molly, I hope you and Morgan are well, and your wedding went smoothly. I hope all the worries you had did not come to pass. Ayden and I have set the date, we will marry in a town called Avebury where Ayden's second cousin owns a tavern on September 21st, a special day for weddings. I've added a map. I hope you can still be my maid of honour! I miss you both. Give my love to Morgan. (CaptUlysses) Your friend always, Evie (The Future Mrs Ayden Murphy!) (CaptUlysses) ((Sept 21st is the date Dietlinde and Jana were murdered)) * @Morgan makes a huh noise and moves on to the next letter (CaptUlysses) **The last letter is quite thick, and has the seal of the private secretary of Queen Elaine, addressed to Lord M Koertig, and also has multiple different locations written on and crossed through, it's clearly been hard to track him down too. There is a covering letter * CaptUlysses tries to bite the corner of it * @Morgan nudges the cat off of it, reading it (CaptUlysses) "Dear Lord Koertig, re: Unnamed Island off the coast of Tawstock, Balig (coordinates). Her Royal Majesty grants you ownership of this territory claimed. It confers no title, and is uninhabited. Ownership deed is enclosed. Yours sincerely, Lord Cecil Burgess, Private Secretary to Queen Elaine of Avalon.". There is indeed a detailed ownership deed enclosed including a map.* (@Morgan) Thank you Cecil, very kind... * CaptUlysses meows (@Morgan) No, not you * CaptUlysses sits down, washing his face again. This correspondence opened, there is only the box remaining, a letter tied to the top of it * @Morgan looks it over (CaptUlysses) **The box is plain and not very heavy * @Morgan looks at the letter (CaptUlysses) "Dear Veisgraf Koertig, enclosed are the Iconographs from your wedding. I have made three copies of each, but if more are required please send word to me at the University Of Freiburg. I hope you enjoy them as much as I enjoyed attending and taking them. Regards, Professor Frengard." * @Morgan puts the box to one side, unopened * CaptUlysses flops on the desk, rolling and stretching across his missives * @Morgan rubs the cats stomach with one hand with cup in the other * CaptUlysses wraps himself around Morgan's hand, four sets of claws and one set of teeth * @Morgan scraps with the cat on the desk * CaptUlysses seems to enjoy this greatly, and is so engaged in it he misses his balance and rolls off on to the floor * @Morgan tilts his head to look at the cat * CaptUlysses is low to the ground, wiggling his bottom and ready to launch an attack * @Morgan wiggles his fingers at the cat * CaptUlysses shoots back on to the desk, frantically skidding and causing a flurry of spilled letters in his wake (@Morgan) little savage * CaptUlysses becomes manic again, and knocks the iconographs box off the table * @Morgan tries to catch the box (CaptUlysses) **The box hits the floor, and there's the sound of a piece of glass breaking (@Morgan) dammit * @Morgan picks the box up * CaptUlysses looks absolutely petrified ** You are now disconnected (Ping timeout) ------------------------------ Logging started for Blitzed:#7thseaic on Tuesday, 17 November 2020 15:13:19 Greenwich Mean Time ------------------------------ ** Reconnecting to irc.blitzed.org:6667… -NickServ- Welcome to Blitzed IRC Network, CaptUlysses! 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 ** mads_ has quit (Quit: This computer has gone to sleep) ** mads_ has joined #7thseaic ** mads_ has quit (Quit: Leaving) ** You are now disconnected ------------------------------ Logging started for Blitzed:#7thseaic on Tuesday, 17 November 2020 20:29:29 Greenwich Mean Time ------------------------------ ** You have joined #7thseaic (Molly) **There's a knock at the door, and the black and white cat streaks off to hide under the couch * @Morgan picks up the box as he speaks (@Morgan) come ** You're now known as Sorgi * Sorgi comes in (Sorgi) I thought I'd come and say goodnight, m'Lord, I've got the morning watch (4-8am) so I am turning in * @Morgan nods (@Morgan) Goodnight Sorgi (Sorgi) If you need to talk or anything, I am only next door * @Morgan nods (@Morgan) thank you, sleep well (Sorgi) You're welcome, m' Lord. And you. * Sorgi shuts the door behind him ** You're now known as CaptUlysses * CaptUlysses is still under the couch. Morgan guesses it must be around Ten o'clock now * @Morgan looks on the floor to check for glass (CaptUlysses) **there's none * @Morgan opens the box (CaptUlysses) There are around 60 folded bits of tissue around seven by five inches, and one larger, thicker one * @Morgan takes them out placing them on the desk (CaptUlysses) ** only the thick one is heavy enough to have glass in it, and it definitely sounds broken * @Morgan mutters, unwrapping it (CaptUlysses) The frame appears fine, but the glass is destroyed. The image doesn't appear to be damaged * @Morgan carefully removes the glass, rewrapping the print and putting it back in the box (CaptUlysses) **The image is of him, Molly and Varick stood outside the chapel just after the wedding ceremony (CaptUlysses) **he's left with a small pile of broken glass and the other images wrapped in paper * CaptUlysses stays hidden * @Morgan puts the other prints back in the box, sealing it before looking for somewhere to dispose of the glass (CaptUlysses) **there's a small bin under the desk that will hold it safely (CaptUlysses) **he manages to clear off the glass with no injury * @Morgan boxes it off, putting it on the desk (@Morgan) come here Ulysses * CaptUlysses doesn't move * @Morgan speaks softly (@Morgan) come on little fella, come for a cuddle * CaptUlysses creeps out with the wariness of an animal who has obviously been mistreated before * @Morgan sits back, patting his lap * CaptUlysses slowly hops up, but is obviously prepared to leap if needed (@Morgan) Come on now, I know you were just being exuberant * CaptUlysses climbs part way up his chest, starting to purr * @Morgan leans back, fussing the cat * CaptUlysses purrs louder, his paws kneading against Morgan's chest (@Morgan) I'm told you think I'm kind... * CaptUlysses continues * CaptUlysses yawns wide, fishy breath in Morgan's face * @Morgan wrinkles his nose * CaptUlysses settles down, preparing to sleep * @Morgan moves the cat to the bed before getting his herbs prepared (CaptUlysses) **In the bag, he finds his spare clothes, Molly's shift, the herbs, and two letters. One is marked Thursday Night, the other Friday If Needed * @Morgan sets about mixing the herbs into a drink, reading the letter while it steeps (CaptUlysses) "Liebes herz, we will be fine, please do not worry. Be kind and forgiving with yourself. Take care of yourself. I hope you sleep well. I love you so very much, and I will be praying for your well-being. Your blossom always xx" (CaptUlysses) **The herbs mix quickly * @Morgan places the letters under the box before drinking (CaptUlysses) *through the window of the quarters, he can see the lamps that light the tavern being extinguished * @Morgan moves to the bed, getting undressed and under the cover * CaptUlysses is spread out on Molly's side, fast asleep * @Morgan tries to settle to sleep (CaptUlysses) **he falls asleep very quickly... however... (CaptUlysses) **As soon as he's asleep, the familiar nightmare that has plagued him for almost three years appears. To start with, he goes through some of the motions of that day. Dietlinde was working on something, taking up a purple satiny dress, the off cuts of which he will discover years later at her parents house crafted into an outfit for the child she was likely carrying (CaptUlysses) She asked him to take Jana outside so she could concentrate. Jana chases the rooster, her tiny hands tucked into her armpits, bent elbows raised and dropped, copying his movement and noise. She toddles back to Morgan with her sweet little face lit up with energy and life. She's come so far in her walking these last few months. (CaptUlysses) She points to her feet, and removing her soft leather shoes he realises she's outgrown them. She's growing up so fast. He wishes he could pause days like these as he swoops her up and spins her round, so she's this small forever. "Vati, schlaf?". Daddy, sleep?. He has no clue these are the last proper words he will ever hear her say. (CaptUlysses) With Dietlinde tired too, he puts these two most precious people into his bed, kissing each before heading off to the market in the square in Sudlachenburg, contented with his lot in life. He takes the time to speak to people, and whilst trying to decide how much bread to buy, he is approached by his father. (CaptUlysses) They talk a little while about Morgan's day, and Jana, and the rooster, and the shoes. Soon Morgan is walking home, sack over his shoulder. He notices three handkerchiefs in his pocket, smiling to himself. One for each of them, all made by Dietlinde. (CaptUlysses) This thought of her draws him home, remembering the way she'd softly stroked his back last night when that recurring nightmare of the schattenmann came, the only nightmare he is plagued by. Then he notices there's four, and as he's starting to pull out a navy blue one, he scents a strange smell in the air that wasn't there when he set off. (CaptUlysses) Burning. Not a small fire, something serious. He spots the dark smoke in the direction of his home, and his pleasant stroll becomes a flat out sprint as he swears and then pleads with the maker he has always had faith in to protect his beloved girls. (CaptUlysses) And oh, what he finds in that clearing! Their home ablaze, the cottage he had secretly bought as soon as he knew the War was over. Where he'd taken her to consummate their marriage made beneath the frosty trees that January afternoon. (CaptUlysses) Where they had made, and she had birthed, that jewel beyond all others. He hears that jewel scream "Vati,Vati!" within the terrified sobs. And Dietlinde screaming for him also, the name he will soon set aside to be a farm hand and live in the way he thinks he ought, in their memory. (CaptUlysses) And the hired arsonist, whose face he will always recall, as it was both before and after he destroys it with his fists. White hot rage, thoughts gone. Destruction, vengeance. When that man is utterly dead, there is only the sound of fire, twisting wood. No more does he, nor will he, hear them scream and plead and suffer except here in his nightmares, relentlessly (CaptUlysses) His own howl of pain and loss is what wakes him bolt upright in the bed on the Rose. ((Done)) * @Morgan wipes his face (@Morgan) dammit (CaptUlysses) ** Everything seems just as it should be, except Molly isn't there to provide comfort. She's in Atemlos, he thinks, with Varick. He hears Edward talking outside the door, in Morgan's quarters, which confuses him. Edward should be in Atemlos. (CaptUlysses) "I had hoped that bringing him here would be enough to make him confront it". Adalbrecht, who should also be in Atemlos, sighs "He is still convinced they are safely in Atemlos?". Edward replies "He doesn't even believe they were in the stable when the fire happened, he thinks they used some odd hidden passage to get to His Grace's loft". (CaptUlysses) Adalbrecht speaks again "If they had died in another way, or if he hadn't gotten back in time to hear them screaming for him, maybe his mind would not have snapped like this". Edward replies "It was too much like what I did to Dietlinde and Jana for him to cope with". "You were lucky he didn't do to you what he did to Alarice". (CaptUlysses) There's a pause before Edward says "We will have to tell him, Father. Once Dietlinde's birthday is over, we need to stop him living in his fantasy and make him see reality". He doesn't want to hear this, and turns over, hands over his ears, forcing himself back to sleep. (CaptUlysses) He awakens. The room is just as it should be, except Molly isn't there. ((Done, Level of desperation and distress)) (@Morgan) ((very very high)) (CaptUlysses) **His fingers are tingling as soon as he wakes * @Morgan swears, glancing out the window as he pulls his trousers on (CaptUlysses) **It's still very dark. His innate sense of time tells him it's around half after four, ninety minutes before sunrise. The room itself is dark * @Morgan rummages savagely through his bag, looking for the box with the shard in it (CaptUlysses) *he finds it, the tingling worsening as time passes. The interior of his bag smells of Molly's perfume from having her shift in it * @Morgan stares at it for a couple of moments before heading to the door, wrenching it open and heading for the main deck ** You're now known as Sorgi * Sorgi is sat on an old crate, braiding some rope, and generally being on his watch. There's no light aside from the moon, and though the other ships likely have someone on watch, there seems to be no one else awake (Sorgi) ((Desperation and distress higher or lower than when waiting for news the previous Thursday?)) (@Morgan) ((higher)) * @Morgan looks around the deck wildly (Sorgi) **The tingling is growing painful. Sorgi watches him a moment, trying to establish if he is sleep walking (@Morgan) Where are they? * Sorgi concludes that he is, so speaks slowly and calmly (Sorgi) Where are who? (@Morgan) Edward, my father... (Sorgi) They're in Atemlos * Sorgi gets up, moving between Morgan and the gang plank (@Morgan) I heard them talking outside my room... that my mind had snapped because Molly and Varick were... * @Morgan makes a strangled sound of anguish * Sorgi nods to himself a moment, then comes and puts his hands on Morgan's upper arms (Sorgi) Molly and Varick are in Atemlos * @Morgan snaps his arm away (@Morgan) They said I've convinced myself of that (Sorgi) **His fingers are actively painful* * Sorgi shakes his head (Sorgi) No. They are in Atemlos. Both Lord Koertigs are in Atemlos. * @Morgan practically growls before sprinting to the guardrail and throwing himself into the water of the dock * Sorgi starts to panic (Sorgi) Morgan! Come back here right now! * @Morgan swims away from the ship, desperately trying to release the pressure and pain in his fingers * Sorgi tries to decide whether it's better to try to get more help or to deal with this in a way that causes least embarassment (Sorgi) **The water around him starts to chance from deeply cold to warm (Sorgi) Change* * @Morgan tries to calm down, moving to floating on his back (Sorgi) **Edwards words ring in his head "... if he hadn't gotten back in time to hear them screaming for him...". The water underneath him is very warm, like a bath. Above him, the black night is pierced by the pin pricks of constellations (Sorgi) Morgan! You come back now or I am coming in after you, Theus help me! * @Morgan starts swimming slowly towards the rose (Sorgi) **The water that is cold at his hands is warm when it reaches his legs, but the tingling has massively reduced * Sorgi is quiet, and Morgan hears nothing from him (@Morgan) Alright, I'm coming * Sorgi doesn't answer. There's no sound other than the lapping of water to hull. In the black water beneath a black sky, he seems very alone * @Morgan swims towards the dock (Sorgi) **he manages it. Even Sorgis shouts don't seem to have alarmed the others who are supposed to be actually on watch, not dozing * @Morgan hauls himself out of the water, laying flat on the boardwalk (Sorgi) **several minutes pass before he hears Sorgi and Koen talking (Sorgi) Get some lamps lit, we need to be able to see a lot better than this. K: *sleepily* I'll put the blankets near the gang plank with the whiskey Cap'n. (@Morgan) Sorgi... (Sorgi) Where are you?! Get back on the damned ship! * @Morgan rolls, standing up and walking towards the gangplank (Sorgi) *he calls to Koen* Don't worry about the lamps, Koen, just come and stand watch (Sorgi) **There's a noise of footsteps from up on the deck * Sorgi and Koen wait for Morgan to embark * @Morgan walks slowly up the gangplank * Sorgi chucks a blanket around Morgan, pulling it tight (Sorgi) Mother of all that is holy! (Sorgi) **Koen moves to block Morgan's exit, just in case * @Morgan shakes his head slightly, walking slowly, head hanging and shoulders slumped * Sorgi nods at Koen a moment before picking up the other blanket and the whiskey and follows Morgan closely * @Morgan wanders over to the mast before sitting down with his back to it (Sorgi) No, up you get. Lets get you dried off and lucid. (@Morgan) I'll dry off here just fine * Sorgi chucks the other blanket over him before sitting down in front of him and pulling the cork on the whiskey (Sorgi) You're sleep-walking, or something like that. (@Morgan) No, I'm not (Sorgi) Tell me what you remember. I came to say goodnight because...? * Sorgi hands him the bottle of whiskey (@Morgan) You were turning in because you had the early watch (@Morgan) its about quarter to five now * @Morgan takes a large guzzle (Sorgi) That's right, and here I am. What happened after I left? (@Morgan) I played with Captain Ulysses, finished my drink and went to bed and had the nightmare of the day I lost Dietlinde and Jana * Sorgi nods compassionately (Sorgi) Understandable. How does your brother fit into that? (@Morgan) I woke up from that dream to hear my brother and father discussing how Molly and Varick had died in the fire at the Eisenfursts house and that my mind had broken, and had deluding myself with everything that I think has happened since. I couldn't bare to listen to it, so I covered my ears and went back to sleep * Sorgi tries to decide how best to tackle this a moment (Sorgi) And what do you think right now? (@Morgan) Thats the tough part. You say they're in Atemlos, but if my mind has gone and I'm deluding myself, I would think you're saying that * Sorgi nods slowly (Sorgi) They are fine though. You only saw them twelve hours ago. (@Morgan) But if they died in the fire and I'm deluding myself, thats how I would do it, isn't it * Sorgi looks a bit out of his depth, but tries to cover it with calm (Sorgi) Lets go to your cabin, we will see if we can find anything there that might help you * @Morgan shakes his head, slugging the whiskey again (@Morgan) There's no point (Sorgi) Why not? (@Morgan) Because anything that shows they're alive would simply be my own madness * Sorgi is quiet a moment as he thinks about this (Sorgi) ((Attention)) (@Morgan) ((the bottle)) * Sorgi just sits with him, keeping a watch, and allowing him to drink as much as he likes. (@Morgan) They're going to try to make me see reality tomorrow (Sorgi) They aren't, because they aren't even in Zweibrucke. (@Morgan) Saturday... its friday now (Sorgi) Yes, it's Friday now. Five hours down, nineteen to go * @Morgan drinks more * Sorgi glances to the door that leads below, and stands up (Sorgi) I'll just be a minute, stay there (Sorgi) **it might be fractionally lighter. It's nowhere near dawn, but it's closer to that moment before dawn that Molly first likened their special, secret time together acting on their own wishes in Carleon to (Sorgi) ((Desperation and distress levels?)) (@Morgan) ((much lower. He's almost admitted defeat)) (Sorgi) **There's quiet talking, three voices (Sorgi) ((Expecting that he doesn't give a single fuck to listen?)) (@Morgan) ((correct)) (Sorgi) **There seems to be an escalation in volume, then it becomes quieter. Sorgi comes back to him with James in tow. They both sit with him. Sorgi holds out something to him (Sorgi) **The clothes on his body have started to half-dry * @Morgan takes the item from Sorgi (Sorgi) **it's Molly's shift * @Morgan buries his face in it (Sorgi) **It smells of her perfume, and generally of her from wearing it to bed having not been able to give him the dress slip as planned* She's fine, Morgan. I am going to let you stay out here til dawn, because she said that you would certainly still be out for it, and then we are putting you back to bed * @Morgan leans his head back against the mast, taking a swig before putting the bottle down * Sorgi and James look at each other grimly. They get themselves settled, and don't say anything, just being there for him. By degrees, the stars lessen and the sky lightens (@Morgan) James, you should go back to bed (Sorgi) J: Absolutely not, my Lord. I went to bed when I got to the ship around nine, I am fine. Besides, I need a quarter less sleep than other people *he points to his missing arm* (@Morgan) I'll be fine with Sorgi from here, since he has to be up anyway (Sorgi) J: I would have to be up now anyway, busy day ahead * Sorgi watches Morgan a moment, then looks to James (Sorgi) If you could get some coffee on, that would be the most help (Sorgi) J: *he nods, getting up* Of course. *he leaves them to it* * Sorgi looks at Morgan (Sorgi) Coffee's not for you, I am hoping you'll pass out with the whiskey so I don't have to knock you out. (@Morgan) Very best of luck with that (Sorgi) **The sky in the east is peachy now, dawn imminent (Sorgi) I dread to think the way she will disapprove at me if I have to (@Morgan) I'll not give you any more trouble * Sorgi watches the sun rise quietly (Sorgi) Right, that's done. Back to bed. (@Morgan) aye captain * @Morgan gets up and heads back to his quarters * Sorgi follows along, standing in the study to give him privacy to dry off (Sorgi) Do you want tea for these herbs? She said to make sure there was tea for your herbs to go in (@Morgan) I had some before I slept (Sorgi) You can't take more? (@Morgan) I don't know so I'd best not. Besides, I need to be up to see the Gottliebs (Sorgi) **The wooden box containing the shard feels waterlogged as he removes it from his pocket (Sorgi) I can put them off, give you privacy? She said you would likely want to stay in here away from everyone (@Morgan) They've got some hard work lifting the sternpost into place... its work Dietlinde would have approved of (Sorgi) I'll find you when they come, and we'll see how you are. Are you accepting that Molly is still safely in Atemlos now? * @Morgan shrugs (@Morgan) We'll wait and see what tomorrow brings * Sorgi breathes in deeply (Sorgi) I can't let you do that * @Morgan spends a moment opening the box to empty the water from it (@Morgan) I don't see you've any way to stop it. (Sorgi) I gave her my word that if you weren't coping, I would send for her (Sorgi) **the inside of the box is dry, as is the shard (@Morgan) If she's alive, I dont want her seeing me like this * Sorgi frowns (Sorgi) You want me to break my word, my Lord? * @Morgan sighs (@Morgan) Let me sleep, we'll discuss it after * Sorgi nods (Sorgi) Good idea. I'll leave you to rest. * @Morgan nods, heading down to his quarters ** You're now known as CaptUlysses * CaptUlysses is now in the centre of the bed in a tight ball * @Morgan takes his trousers off before laying on the bed * CaptUlysses stirs, coming to lie on Morgan's chest * @Morgan stares at the ceiling, speaking quietly (@Morgan) please, no more * CaptUlysses starts to purr (CaptUlysses) ((What's he done with the whiskey, shift, box and shard?)) (@Morgan) ((whiskey he left by the mast, shift he has in his hand, box he'd have put, closed, next to him on the bed * CaptUlysses spreads out on Morgan like a small, heavy blanket (CaptUlysses) **he starts to feel sleepy again, though the prospect of more nightmares is so unpleasant * @Morgan fights against it for a short time before finally giving in (CaptUlysses) **He relents into his exhaustion, and starts to dream (CaptUlysses) **He is sat beside the stream, his spilled seed mixed into the leaves and dirt. Molly is sat next to him, smiling. "As always, you have any comfort or aid you would desire from me…". Molly watches him intently, adoringly, leaning in as if to kiss him. "I'll even make you chicken porridge!" (mtf, Will tell you when done)) (CaptUlysses) She springs up and away from him, giggling. He scowls, jumping up to chase her, and she shrieks, bolting for the trees, and laughing loudly. He follows, though feels an anxiety that doesn't belong here in this simple game of chasing. There's a minute when he can't see her, can't hear her, and his heart pounds with panic. (CaptUlysses) Then he spots her from behind, and uses all his skill to silently sneak up on her. He suddenly wraps a strong arm around and over her arms, the other around her waist, holding her tight. She makes a brief cry of surprise before laughing. (CaptUlysses) He presses his mouth to her neck, tasting her skin, breathing her in. Her moan of pleasure is cut short by a knock that awakens him. (CaptUlysses) In the bed, he has her shift pressed tight to her mouth and nose, inhaling through it. (CaptUlysses) ((Done)) (CaptUlysses) His mouth * * @Morgan grumbles (@Morgan) hang on, hang on * @Morgan scrambles to put some trousers on (CaptUlysses) *Sorgi calls "It's just me. Mr Gottlieb said the sternpost is to go in in half an hour but he understands, as a widower himself, if you have changed your mind" * @Morgan does his trousers up (@Morgan) come in Sorgi ** You're now known as Sorgi * Sorgi goes into the study, but not through into the bedroom * @Morgan pulls a top on, heading out into the study (@Morgan) what time is it? (Sorgi) Just after ten, m' Lord. *he sets a cup of strong coffee on the desk before looking Morgan over* (Sorgi) How are you feeling now? * @Morgan nods, picking up the coffee (@Morgan) Sick to my stomach (Sorgi) Too much whiskey so early in the day * @Morgan shrugs (@Morgan) I don't think so * Sorgi sighs (Sorgi) No matter what I tell you, you won't believe it (@Morgan) If I could convince myself I was spending time with them, convincing myself that my father and brother aren't here would be fairly easy, wouldn't it (Sorgi) I hoped sleeping again would set you right * Sorgi looks at the box on the desk (@Morgan) At this point, I can see either being possible (Sorgi) Do you want her sent for? * Sorgi watches him with concern * @Morgan shakes his head (Sorgi) That would help, surely (@Morgan) No, I will not spoil her day enjoying shopping (Sorgi) You are going to put yourself through this uncertainty so she can be happy? * @Morgan nods * Sorgi looks exasperated (Sorgi) It shows you see she is likely alive at least (@Morgan) Its a much more positive position than I was in a few hours ago * Sorgi nods (Sorgi) If you get that bad again, I will have to send for her, M'Lord * @Morgan nods * Sorgi shakes his head (Sorgi) She warned me you were prone to intense nightmares, but... (@Morgan) That was... the first one I've had many times, but... * Sorgi nods grimly (Sorgi) Doubting your sanity is a real killer * @Morgan nods * Sorgi looks at the box (Sorgi) Another present from her ladyship? (@Morgan) Iconographs from our wedding * Sorgi smiles (Sorgi) Something nice then (@Morgan) pity the captain broke the glass in the frame * Sorgi looks thoughtful (Sorgi) I could send someone to find a replacement if you know the size? * @Morgan takes the frame out (@Morgan) that big (Sorgi) ((Unwrapped?)) (@Morgan) ((yeah)) * Sorgi takes out string and chalk, messiring (Sorgi) Measuring. Then he looks at it with a warm smile (Sorgi) Looks like a very happy day, m' Lord * @Morgan nods (@Morgan) it was * Sorgi nods (@Morgan) just after that was taken Varick fell to the ground crying that his soul had been stolen by the iconograph and only cake would save him * Sorgi laughs (Sorgi) He's a real character. He's going to grow up to be a very insightful man. (@Morgan) Perhaps (CaptS) That the only glass broken? *he peers into the box of wrapped iconographs * @Morgan nods (CaptS) Leave that with me. Are you going to work? ** Sorgi has quit (Ping timeout: 245 seconds) * @Morgan nods * CaptS spots Captain Ulysses waiting to be let out and does so (CaptS) I'll let them know you'll be there * CaptS seems to assess him again before bowing and following the cat, giving Morgan time to finish his coffee and do anything else he needs to * @Morgan finishes getting ready to do some hard work (CaptS) ((He's left the shard box and shift on the bed, also has no weapons? (@Morgan) ((He'd have at least a sword and a dagger, and would most likely put the shard box away)) (CaptS) **The wood of the box seems dry as he puts it away** (CaptS) **The dock when he gets there is bustling, a market day. Briefly at the bottom of the gang plank, he is reminded of Molly's dream of Tawstock where she came bounding confidently off The Rose and leapt into his arms to kiss him soundly* * CaptS watches him from the deck * @Morgan looks around before heading off towards the shipbuilders (CaptS) **He spots Gottlieb Senior at the dry dock from quite a distance, and the man slowly approaches. For someone who had their heart magically reweaved less than three weeks ago, he looks very well. He bows gingerly ** You're now known as Gottlieb (Gottlieb) Good morning, my Lord (@Morgan) morning. You are well? * Gottlieb nods (Gottlieb) I hope you are faring as well as you can today. My sympathies, my Lord. * @Morgan nods (@Morgan) thank you * Gottlieb starts to walk in the direction of the dry dock. In it, there is an oak keel ready and waiting, much shorter than The Rose. The first piece of The Star Of The Sea. * @Morgan casts his eye over it (Gottlieb) The men are just having second breakfast, then they will be ready * @Morgan nods (Gottlieb) It's uncommon for ship owners to want to get their hands dirty, especially at this stage * Gottlieb leads him on to the large dry dock (@Morgan) Its been noted I am not a normal noble... * Gottlieb looks around. The inner and main sternposts are near the stern end of the keel, and there are also two main frames part built. They give Morgan a good idea of the size of his fast, pirate-deterring, cargo ship. (Gottlieb) I thought you might enjoy having a hand in constructing your own vessel, my Lord (@Morgan) You thought correctly... a pity I wont be able to have a hadn't in constructing the rest of them (Gottlieb) Have you got ideas of what else you want, my Lord? Sinan said they are to be built at speed * Gottlieb glances around as a group of about twenty loud men leave a building and come back to the dry dock (@Morgan) Something along the same lines, with a bit more of a concession to cargo space * Gottlieb nods. The men go to their varies tasks, still loud but focused (Gottlieb) As soon as this is out of dry dock, we can start the next * @Morgan nods (@Morgan) Did Sinan speak with you about the ship for the Schwerz Von Dorned company? * Gottlieb nods (Gottlieb) Yes. Construction will continue (@Morgan) That surprises me (Gottlieb) Why, my Lord? (@Morgan) Given that the contractee nearly cost you your life... (Gottlieb) It's pure business. We are a month from completion. If Colonel Dau ends up in jail or worse, he will not be able to complete the payment. The finished ship becomes ours to sell (@Morgan) You will sell it to him if he is not incarcerated? * Gottlieb smiles coldly (Gottlieb) I have every intention of that man ending up in jail or dead. (@Morgan) What sort of ship is she? (Gottlieb) Same specifications we built in the War *he thinks* Same as the Oreste, which I think you served on? (Gottlieb) ((He did * @Morgan nods (@Morgan) indeed (Gottlieb) ((Spec can be whatever suits you)) (@Morgan) What will her sale price be? * Gottlieb points out the ship in the water. It looks fairly complete aside from the smaller masts, sails, and miles of ropes (Gottlieb) They were due to pay another nine hundred, deposit of three hundred ((it's about what would be expected for a warship without any special discounts, and it's obvious there was no special goodwill between the companies)) * @Morgan nods * @Morgan looks out at the ship (@Morgan) I don't really _need_ a warship * Gottlieb smiles (Gottlieb) Most Eisen men don't... (@Morgan) Doesn't mean I don't _want_ one though * Gottlieb smiles again (Gottlieb) Most Eisen men do. * @Morgan smiles slightly * Gottlieb quietly watches the men working (Gottlieb) **a man that the others seem to be deferring to seems to be assembling some of them by the sternposts (@Morgan) I suppose thats my cue * Gottlieb makes the introduction. The Foreman is polite, but not deferential. The other men look a little wary but not hostile * @Morgan waits for instructions (Gottlieb) **Instructions are given. This is a tough job, involving lots of lifting, twisting and balancing the two pieces. Multiple times they have to be re-sited. This is clearly normal. Within ten minutes, he's sweating buckets and his muscles are worked in the way he finds so peaceful whilst training. It's a full hour before his job is simply to hold the sternpost steady whilst it is fixed in place with thick wooden pins by heavy mallets * @Morgan does as he's instructed (Gottlieb) **as he's doing this, he spots Koen taking a casual saunter past the dry dock in such a way as to be able to subtly check up on Morgan * @Morgan watches him making it clear he knows thats what he's doing (Gottlieb) **Koen just nods, looking satisfied, and heads back to the ship (Gottlieb) **A wonky hit causes the wood in his hands to jolt, shoving a splinter into the fleshy bit at the base of his thumb * @Morgan swears, but doesn't let go (Gottlieb) **it's quite tender with each hit, and the combination of pain there mixed with the rhythmic thud of wood on wood has his mind wandering. It was not long after he and Dietlinde had wed. He was building the fence. A similar splinter in the same spot. He had gone in to the cottage, where she was hemming a skirt for a customer. (Mtf) (Gottlieb) She'd tutted him playfully, suggesting she should finish the fence and he should finish the sewing, and deftly used a needle from the sewing box he'd bought her on his way back from the war, one which was now in Otto and Sascha's house, to remove it before kissing it better. It was then he had decided he would have her teach him to sew. (Gottlieb) ((Done)) * @Morgan blinks slowly, glancing around him (Gottlieb) **Work continues around him, the atmosphere full of camaraderie and men who clearly enjoy their jobs. * @Morgan concentrates on getting his task done (Gottlieb) **Another fifteen minutes pass, when he hears galloping (Gottlieb) **The men hammering in the wooden pins look up towards the sound of the fast horse * @Morgan looks round (Gottlieb) **The man on the horse is well dressed, perhaps a wealthy merchant, or man of business from a higher noble * @Morgan watches him (Gottlieb) **He passes by the dry dock with an expression of a man with very bad news to impart. He appears to be looking for someone * @Morgan keeps his eyes on him (Gottlieb) **He heads further along the dock. He stops at The Rose, looking up at it * @Morgan calls to the foreman (Gottlieb) **he comes on over* Your lordship? ** You're now known as Foreman (@Morgan) _that_ miserable looking man... is heading for my ship. Can you manage without me? * Foreman nods, taking Morgan's place himself (Foreman) Come on back if you fancy some more, plenty you can do if you want it * @Morgan nods (@Morgan) thank you * Foreman inclines his head before getting stuck in ** You're now known as Man * @Morgan walks out towards him * Man is still looking up at the ship when Morgan gets there (@Morgan) Looking for someone? * Man nods (Man) I am (@Morgan) Perhaps I can help... (Man) I can hear him up there, I am just waiting for him to come down (@Morgan) who? (Man) Sinan Gottlieb (@Morgan) What do you want him for? * Man glances at Morgan (Man) I am here on business. (@Morgan) Looking like that... not good business I'd say (Man) No, definitely not. House caught fire, occupants burned to death. Horrible way to die. * @Morgan nods (@Morgan) and thats got what to do with Gottlieb? (Man) I was coming on different business, but that pulled me off track. Nobility, see? * @Morgan nods (@Morgan) awkward the lot of em... they were relatives of this man? (Man) **Sinan can be heard bidding Sorgi farewell** (Man) Distant cousin of his wife was in the house at the time. (@Morgan) Shame. Anyone I'd know of? (Man) Doubt it, just an employee of the Freiarrin who died. *he watches Sinan approach and dismounts* * @Morgan nods (Man) *Sinan inclines his head to the man, obviously familiar with him. He then looks at Morgan with a bit of surprise* My Lord, I wasn't expecting you back (@Morgan) Sadly I can spot bad news * Man looks confused, looking between the two of them * @Morgan looks at him (Man) S: I've left a note for you. I don't wish to intrude on your grief today. * @Morgan looks at Sinan (@Morgan) since I'm here.. what does it say? * Man looks even more intrigued (Man) S: It asks if tou can consider providing your statement regarding the attack on the Lusty Wench and my Father before His Grace's Port Overseer arrives... * @Morgan nods (@Morgan) when will that be? * Man smiles slightly (Man) About five minutes ago * @Morgan looks at the man briefly (@Morgan) then no (Man) Clearly (Man) S: **He makes the introductions quickly, before then looking to Morgan* We will leave you in peace * @Morgan nods (@Morgan) I'll have it written today (@Morgan) unless its wanted in person (Man) No, a written statement will suffice * @Morgan nods (@Morgan) I'll take care of it (Man) ** the word makes him think of Edward, and the bundling. But as that was after Monday, did it really happen, or has he imagined it? * Man and Sinan bow, leaving * @Morgan walks up the gangplank slowly, running his fingers over the horseshoe ** You're now known as Sorgi * Sorgi is watching him, trying to establish how troubled or out of control he is * @Morgan wanders over to him * Sorgi looks genuinely concerned (Sorgi) Are you staying now? * @Morgan nods, pulling the splinter from his thumb (Sorgi) **it hurts a lot, and there's no-one to kiss it better (Sorgi) I'll have some lunch brought down to you shortly * @Morgan nods * Sorgi gets called, inclining his head a moment before walking ofd * @Morgan goes and stands at the rail for a moment before heading below deck to his office ** You're now known as No-one * No-one crosses his path (No-one) **there's not even a cat in sight when he gets there. Nothing seems out of place * @Morgan goes and gets his new guitar, sitting behind the desk with it (No-one) **He's just gotten it fully tuned when Sorgi brings him a cold lunch of meat, bread and cheese, nearly tripping over the begging cat (@Morgan) I've noticed that cat appears whenever there's food (No-one) **Sorgi laughs, leaving man and cat to their meal, and quietly shuts the door ** You're now known as CaptUlysses * @Morgan flings a bit of meat to the cat before starting to eat * CaptUlysses looks happy with this and then curls up on the desk, knocking the box again * @Morgan moves it out of the way (CaptUlysses) **Underneath the box, the opened letter marked Thursday Night, and the sealed one marked Friday If Needed are sat on the desk * @Morgan looks at it for a moment before picking it up and opening it (CaptUlysses) Liebes herz, if you are reading this, it is because you are finding it difficult today. I am most sorry for that. If I was with you, I would wrap you in an embrace until you could feel my love and compassion. (CaptUlysses) What happened was not your fault. You could not have predicted that. (CaptUlysses) Only the person who chose it could. Dietlinde would tell you the same, I am sure, because that is what I would tell you had it been Varick and I. Please, be forgiving with yourself. My love always, Molly xx * @Morgan sighs, putting it down (@Morgan) How am I supposed to know for sure, captain? * CaptUlysses opens one eye, meowing (@Morgan) Thats not a great deal of help * CaptUlysses stretches the full width of the desk paw to paw * CaptUlysses jumps down, going to the bedroom. Before Morgan has finished eating, he can hear feline footprints and a swishing noise * CaptUlysses is dragging Molly's shift along, paws on either side of it. It's obviously hard work but he seems determined * @Morgan watches the cat before getting up and taking the shift from him * CaptUlysses purrs, rubbing across his shins (@Morgan) The very fact I'm talking to and taking some solace in your actions doesn't bode well for my sanity... * CaptUlysses makes a meow that sounds almost questioning in the uplift at the end * @Morgan moves back to the desk (@Morgan) thats easy for you to say * CaptUlysses jumps back up on the desk, stealing the last bit of meat (@Morgan) fair trade I suppose * CaptUlysses lies down on his side, just watching Morgan * @Morgan puts the shift on the desk in front of him, picking up his guitar (CaptUlysses) **The sound of the strings triggers a memory. He's serending Dietlinde for her birthday on the bed in the cottage that first summer. She's already been sick that morning, as with most mornings the last few months. He plays a Lullabye he'd been practicing (mtf) (CaptUlysses) "On my next birthday I will be someone's mother" she says. "Yes you will, Schatzen" he replies with a smile. "If not a boy this time, it will be next time. Everyone says girls make you sickest". He shrugs, smiling at her. It doesn't matter, so long as she and the baby are healthy and well ((done)) * @Morgan slowly plays the lullabye (CaptUlysses) **his fingers easily find their way. He had played it many times those early months after Jana's birth when the night feeds stirred the home with hungry cries. This reminds him of Adalbrecht's association of Verity feeding Morgan in the night and the Nieblungen calm balm. * @Morgan stops playing, putting the guitar aside and looking through his bags for the balm (CaptUlysses) **he finds it easily * @Morgan opens it, rubbing a little on his septum before putting it away again (CaptUlysses) ((In the time since he used it first, having heard everyone else's calmer smell, has anything occurred to him that would smell calmer than the lavender/cinnamon scent?)) (@Morgan) ((no)) (CaptUlysses) **it smells calmingly of lavender and cinnamon, and gives him a little relief from both his old memories and present worries, allowing him to focus on playing whilst the cat dozes on the desk * @Morgan changes the tune, to working on the song thats been floating around his head (CaptUlysses) **after a couple of hours of working on the tune that keeps playing in his head, his fingers feel sore, and his mind feels tired. Guitar safely stored, he is followed by the cat when he goes to lie on top of the eiderdown, hoping for rest without nightmares. ((what does he do with the balm and shift?)) (@Morgan) ((reapply balm, take the shift with him)) * CaptUlysses curls up at his side, and isn't even asleep before Morgan is (@Morgan) **it smells calmingly of lavender and cinnamon, and gives him a little relief from both his old memories and present worries, allowing him to focus on playing whilst the cat dozes on the desk (@Morgan) * Morgan changes the tune, to working on the song thats been floating around his head (@Morgan) **after a couple of hours of working on the tune that keeps playing in his head, his fingers feel sore, and his mind feels tired. Guitar safely stored, he is followed by the cat when he goes to lie on top of the eiderdown, hoping for rest without nightmares.((what does he do with the balm and shift?)) (@Morgan) ((reapply balm, take the shift with him)) (@Morgan) * CaptUlysses curls up at his side, and isn't even asleep before Morgan is ** Molly has quit (Ping timeout: 245 seconds) (MollyK) **He dreams he is sat in his chair at the desk, working on his song, just as he was before settling for a nap. He plays more of the tune than he's managed to write so far in the waking world. Then he feels soft hands wrap around his shoulders from behind, loose enough not to disturb him, and a kiss on his crown. (MollyK) He feels a deep sense of relief, that Molly is fine and with him. Her perfume surrounds him, and as she presses against him, the softness of her breasts push against his head. (MollyK) He continues to play, though his mind is busy being thankful. She moves to run kisses down his neck, then her tongue, and soon, little bites. He starts to lose some control of the rhythm. (MollyK) With a giggle, she moves to sit in front of him on the new desk, hair unbound, only wearing her dress slip, and she runs her hands over her body just as she had in Atemlos the night before he left. As her hands trail up her inner thighs, he admits defeat, happy enough with the new bits of the melody. (MollyK) He moves the chair closer, pulling her firmly by the hips until her bottom is on the edge of the desk. (MollyK) She looks at him with adoration as he roughly pushes up the fabric and buries his mouth between her thighs against her heated skin, tasting her, the scent of her arousal and rose water filling his nostrils. Her soft sounds of pleasure likewise fill his ears. She murmurs his name with ecstacy and desire as her back arches, propped up on one hand whilst the fingers of the other are in his hair. (MollyK) And he suddenly awakens, her shift pressed as close to his face as her womanhood was in the dream. His erection strains against the placket of his trousers. ((Done)) * @Morgan stretches (MollyK) **His memory of the uncertainty he was dealing with before going to sleep comes back and he can hear voices in his study. Serious voices. It sounds like Edward and Adalbrecht to his troubled mind. * @Morgan climbs out of bed, trying to listen as he moves towards the door (MollyK) **it isn't Adalbrecht and Edward, it's Sorgi and James * @Morgan rubs his eyes, listening (MollyK) J: I need an answer if I am going to get this deal and get the shipment to Picante on time. S: You saw him this morning, I won't risk that again. J: Have you sent word to the Veisgrafin? S: No, though I am close to it. I thought he would have dismissed it as a nightmare by now. J: I think he won't until he has seen her. S: He doesn't want her sent for, and I respect his reasons. J: This needs to be dealt with though, before we lose the chance on this shipment. * @Morgan opens the door ** You're now known as Sorgi (@Morgan) What shipment * Sorgi and James both jump. Sorgi has a pane of glass in his hands (Sorgi) J: The silks to go to Picante, my Lord. A good price, but they must be there by tomorrow night (@Morgan) SO we'd need to sail by... (Sorgi) J: Very early Sunday morning * @Morgan nods (@Morgan) take the shipment (Sorgi) J: *he inclines his head* if you'll excuse me, I will get it sorted now * @Morgan nods * Sorgi waits until he has gone before looking Morgan over (Sorgi) You are doing better, if you're making plans for once they are back tomorrow (@Morgan) Back or not, this ship needs a task * Sorgi nods a little (Sorgi) You need to send for Molly within half hour if you want her to travel and arrive before nightfall, otherwise she will be travelling in the dark. * @Morgan shakes his head (@Morgan) no * Sorgi looks serious (Sorgi) We will not have a repeat of this morning, I hope (@Morgan) I hope not (Sorgi) She told me to expect them around Ten in the morning. I could send someone to ask them them to set off earlier (@Morgan) That I wouldn't stop... * Sorgi nods (Sorgi) But not to leave in the dark? (@Morgan) absolutely (Sorgi) All of them, or just Molly with some of the mercenaries to come early? (@Morgan) All of them... my delusions should not extend to my father and brother, so if they come... * Sorgi nods (Sorgi) Do you want what has happened kept secret, and just that you would like them all here as soon as possible in the morning so we can make an earlier start? The tide won't matter as much crossing the river * @Morgan nods (@Morgan) They don't need to know about it yet * Sorgi nods, putting the glass on the desk (Sorgi) The Port Overseer wants your statement before six o'clock. I said I would pass it on. * @Morgan nods (@Morgan) I'll see to it * Sorgi inclines his head (Sorgi) Anything else? (@Morgan) Tea... * Sorgi nods. He's gone about three minutes, during which Captain Ulysses has come out of the bedroom looking for Morgan, and jumped up on the desk, nearly knocking the new glass off * @Morgan looks at the cat (@Morgan) is anything safe from you? (Sorgi) **He sits on the glass, watching Morgan. Sorgi comes back in with the tea. It smells slightly smokier than regular tea, a particular blend he had acquired some of during the war from the black market trading that went on in camps * @Morgan shakes his head at the cat (@Morgan) Clumsy as hell, that cat * Sorgi smiles (Sorgi) Koen tells me they spotted him carrying a mark the other day, and there's been odd shiny bits of metal appearing on board (@Morgan) He's definitely a little pirate * Sorgi nods (Sorgi) I need to get this messenger on his way, my Lord * @Morgan nods, going to sit at his desk * Sorgi bows, going off to do so. He has to move the cat and the glass to do so. Captain Ulysses sits on the chair opposite, washing himself in a very undignified manner ** You're now known as CaptUlysses * @Morgan starts writing his statement (CaptUlysses) **it takes very little time for him to swiftly craft the document he hopes will finally be the downfall of the Colonel he cannot stand * @Morgan folds and seals it before taking it and his tea up on deck * CaptUlysses trots along behind him (CaptUlysses) **The crew are in the process of loading crates from the dock to the deck, Sorgi watching them * @Morgan walks up beside Sorgi * CaptUlysses jumps onto the guard rail and overboard. No-one bats an eyelid ** You're now known as Sorgi (Sorgi) I would have come back for it in a few minutes, my Lord (@Morgan) does he do that often? * Sorgi nods (Sorgi) According to Koen, a few times a day, unless he has been in the kitchen stealing food * @Morgan nods (@Morgan) I wont go in after him then * Sorgi just looks at him, not even blinking (Sorgi) I would prefer you dont (@Morgan) If I am of sound mind, I would not have Varicks return to be me failing to save his cat (Sorgi) He will be back in a moment with a fish * Sorgi looks at the paper (Sorgi) You want that taken to the Port Overseer, my Lord? * @Morgan nods * Sorgi gets the attention of one of the crew, and the statement is soon on its way. Sorgi watches the loading of the crates (Sorgi) Messenger has gone to Atemlos, should be back around sunset * @Morgan nods * Sorgi doesn't seem to have much to say for himself, focused on the crew (@Morgan) I very much want you to be right * Sorgi smiles a little (Sorgi) Because I am not brooding about my sanity, my Lord * Sorgi nods (Sorgi) About them being alive? * @Morgan nods * Sorgi nods (Sorgi) I wish I could persuade you. It's been a horrible time since the stable exploded, surely you cant believe you could have imagined everything since? * @Morgan scratches his chin (@Morgan) Given last night, I cant shake that possibility. But surely I couldn't imagine my father and brother _not_ being here... (Sorgi) But Molly nearly dying last Thursday... and then the execution of your cousin... * @Morgan smiles slightly (@Morgan) am I the sort to torture myself so... * Sorgi pales slightly (Sorgi) Only a masochist would put themselves through the horror of last Thursday (@Morgan) The sort of thing I'd do if I felt I deserved it... * Sorgi frowns (Sorgi) No-one would deserve to lose a wife as tragically as that * @Morgan nods * Sorgi shouts a brief instruction about how to lift the crates (Sorgi) **Captain Ulysses reappears to eat his fish on the deck (@Morgan) saves me getting wet again * Sorgi nods (Sorgi) Will you excuse me, my Lord? (@Morgan) of course * Sorgi goes down the gang plank, working with the men, leaving Morgan to his tea * @Morgan moves along the guardrail to near the rear of the ship, looking out across the water (Sorgi) **it's peaceful, and the gulls also take their mid-afternoon snacks from the waters in the Port (Sorgi) **This hot, fragranced tea sets his mind back many years. He'd asked the beautiful seventeen year old seamstress' assistant he had met whilst dropping off his mother's dresses to meet him for a picnic. It seemed a little bold, but he was desperate to see her again. (Sorgi) Sat in a secluded clearing in the forest, he made a fire, then brewed her tea in a pot he had borrowed from Die Dauerhaftigkeit. The look of revulsion on her face as she sipped it was the most adorable thing he thought he had ever seen. She had laughed gently when he blurted that out, and it starts to break down the barrier of their differing social standings (Sorgi) (Done) ** You're now known as CaptUlysses * @Morgan looks at the cat (@Morgan) I miss her * CaptUlysses sits on the guardrail, making a little meow * CaptUlysses shakes off his fur, just like a dog would. He almost falls overboard * @Morgan grabs him (@Morgan) For a cat, you are entirely ungraceful * CaptUlysses purrs. As dexterous as he is, Morgan doesn't even spill any tea (CaptUlysses) **he hears someone asking for "Permission to come aboard, Captain" from all the way over by the gang plank * @Morgan looks over, sipping his tea (CaptUlysses) **The young lad who looks like a messenger is given permission by Sorgi and then directions to Morgan * CaptUlysses watches the stranger approach, bristling a little * @Morgan moves the cat onto his shoulder * CaptUlysses wraps around him like a noble woman's fox fur stole * CaptUlysses bows, looking serious ** You're now known as Lad * Lad bows, looking serious (Lad) Veisgraf Sudlachenburg? (@Morgan) aye lad (Lad) An urgent letter from His Grace Eisenfurst Fischlers house in Atemlos * @Morgan holds out his hand * Lad gives it over. It is several layers thick * @Morgan puts his cup down on the rail, opening the letter hurriedly (Lad) *The top layer says "Dear Morgan (Lad) I hope this finds you well, and you are holding up on this sad day. I wanted to send my thanks again for your service to myself and the Konigsreich. Please thank Varick for the story. As you said, it was most instructional, and has been of immense benefit to me, more than anything else in all these years. He and you have (u)our(/u) deepest gratitude. My regards to our dear Veisgrafin also. (Lad) Faulk" * @Morgan moves to the next layer (Lad) **It is two pages of official documents confirming their titles as Duke and Duchess Koertig, from the stroke of midnight into Saturday 29th August 1670 (Lad) ** the next layer is a letter to be passed on to whichever ship builders he chooses instruction that the Koertig contracts are to be serviced at the speed of the Konigsreichs contracts* (Lad) **the final one is an outer layer that has been added. "Lord Koertig, this arrived with haste today, Friday. I have instructed it is sent on to you, as neither Lord Koertig was here to receive it in your absence. My thoughts are with you on this day, I understand your pain. Courage, Justice, Temperance and Wisdom, Karlsruhe. * @Morgan nods, fishing a guilder from his pocket and handing it to the boy * Lad thanks him (Lad) Any reply, my Lord? (@Morgan) You are going back to Atemlos? * Lad nods (Lad) Back to His Grace's, my Lord (@Morgan) Find somewhere to be for ten minutes, I'll compose a reply * Lad bows, heading off the ship towards a tavern, very optimistically for a lad who looks about fifteen ** You're now known as CaptUlysses * CaptUlysses stretches, pawing at the letter (@Morgan) meowing at me isn't much help captain * @Morgan heads into his office * CaptUlysses just stays happily around his shoulders * @Morgan sits at the desk, pulling some paper towards him, writing three letters * CaptUlysses watches with interest as the quill moves over the papers but manages to keep his paws to himself (CaptUlysses) ((To whom and what?)) (@Morgan) ((Eisenfurst, thanking him for his sympathy and assistance and glad he found the story so enlightening, Karlsruhe thanking him for passing the letters along, and Molly)) (CaptUlysses) ((What does the one to Molly say, so I know for future reference?)) (@Morgan) ((That he misses her, is struggling but will manage until she arrives in the morning)) (CaptUlysses) ((Ok)) * CaptUlysses stays put throughout all of this, and doesn't fidget. He's not very heavy, and it becomes quite a relaxing pressure * @Morgan takes the letters back on deck to wait for the lad (CaptUlysses) **He comes back, looking proud of himself (@Morgan) Didn't drink yourself stupid, did you? (CaptUlysses) **He shakes his head* No my Lord, just a quick cherry brandy, it was my Ma's favourite * @Morgan nods (@Morgan) my wife's too * @Morgan hands over the letters * CaptUlysses nods, taking them. He looks at the one to Molly (CaptUlysses) This one to go to Fischler, my Lord? (@Morgan) Fischler? (CaptUlysses) To His Grace's main house * @Morgan shakes his head (@Morgan) the ones to Karlsruhe and Veisgrafin Koertig are both for Atemlos (CaptUlysses) Oh! *he shrugs a little* Must have just not crossed her path yet, my Lord. I saw Graf and Lord Koertig in the stable earlier though * @Morgan frowns (@Morgan) They're meant to be with her (CaptUlysses) **He shrugs again, trying to recall* They were just back from church when I got there. About quarter before nine? * @Morgan frowns deeper (@Morgan) very well... best get going lad * CaptUlysses seems to pick up Morgan's changing demeanour because he starts to rub his face to Morgan's chin (CaptUlysses) *He looks a little unsure, but nods* Yes, my Lord * @Morgan watches him (@Morgan) whats on your mind lad? (CaptUlysses) **he frowns* Probably nothing, my Lord. They were talking about having "lit a candle for her" and how it was "better not to say anything to him about it for now" * @Morgan nods slowly (@Morgan) Alright... get on the road (CaptUlysses) *he nods, pocketing the letters* Do you want a reply waiting for there? I could be back by about nine o'clock? * @Morgan nods... the Veisgrafin. (CaptUlysses) *he bows, then goes* * CaptUlysses meows loudly in his ear (@Morgan) what? * CaptUlysses purrs loudly (CaptUlysses) **There's noise as the last crate is loaded and Sorgi is chatting down on the dock with Sinan. Morgan is left to his own devices. He guesses it is around half after four * @Morgan finishes his tea (@Morgan) You think they're still with us? * CaptUlysses continues to just purr, not seeming to give any opinion at all (@Morgan) You're not a lot of help * @Morgan tucks the letters into his pocket and walks towards the main deck * CaptUlysses yawns, nearly falling off, his claws digging sharply into Morgan's shoulder. It's quite painful, not as bad as the huge splinter of wood in the thigh he got during his execution of Alarice last Saturday, but noticeable (@Morgan) I'm going to start carrying you in a bag if you're not careful (CaptUlysses) **As the afternoon wears on, after adding the bits to the song that came to him in the dream he had not long woken from, he finds himself with empty time to brood on the significance of the day, his memories of Dietlinde and his feelings about her death, as well as brooding on the situation with Molly and what was heard at the stable* (CaptUlysses) **He is served his dinner in his office. Cook tells him that special instructions were sent of Wednesday for roast pork, butters wort, and blackberry crumble, all made exactly as he likes. It is a combination of his favourite, and what Molly had made the evening after he proposed marriage in their comparatively safe Tawstock home* (@Morgan) Where did the instructions come from? (CaptUlysses) C: Veisgrafin Koertig, along with the letter for you about the desk (@Morgan) When? (CaptUlysses) C: late Wednesday night (CaptUlysses) **he recalls seeing her with a letter on Wednesday morning, as she was apologising for so brazenly pleasuring him in a busy tavern * @Morgan nods (@Morgan) thank you Mr Cook (CaptUlysses) C: *he leaves him to eat and ponder. The sounds of the crew having their meal in the dinning hall is more rawkus than it should be, but the crowning glory is when he hears the line about the Captain's Daughter as they sing * @Morgan eats his meal, sharing the odd bit with the cat * CaptUlysses takes it happily. The sound of the crew settles as the second dogs watch finishes and the ship moves on to First Watch, telling Morgan it is eight o'clock * @Morgan looks at the cat (@Morgan) I'm going to sit on the deck.... coming? * CaptUlysses jumps up at the round door handle, wrapping his paws around it, and manages to undo it * @Morgan nods, walking to it to open it properly (@Morgan) I'll take that as a yes * CaptUlysses goes up on the deck with him, but then wanders off down the gang plank. The sun is just setting, the sky beautiful, much as it was when he was sat watching it on a blanket with Molly in Atemlos two nights ago... He hopes. * @Morgan goes to the rail looking along the docks, sitting to dangle his legs off the edge (CaptUlysses) **The crew are performing all the regular evening tasks of First Watch, getting things squared away and checked over. No-one interrupts him. The day fades to night, and the stars appear gradually. The north star shines in the direction of Atemlos, where the north to his compass should be resting exhaustedly after a busy day of shopping and sightseeing * @Morgan hums quietly to himself, waiting (CaptUlysses) **A few riders come and go to other ships, each time the sound putting him on edge of expectation of her response. It's already after nine when the cat comes back and walks below deck. No messenger comes with him. There's still nothing twenty minutes later when he hears the padding and swishing of Captain Ulysses slowly approaching * CaptUlysses gets to Morgan, meowing loudly, though doesn't jump up * @Morgan holds his hand out to the cat * CaptUlysses just stands there meowing (CaptUlysses) **A couple of the crew start paying attention * @Morgan looks round * CaptUlysses has brought Molly's shift the long distance from his room all the way through the corridor and up the stairs onto the deck * @Morgan takes it, holding it in one hand while holding the other out to the cat * CaptUlysses jumps onto the rail, allowing Morgan to fuss him. One by one, ships lanterns are extinguished down to the ones of the couple of crew on watch, and soon after, so are those on the taverns. He realised there's been no horses for quite a while now, and it's very dark. ** You're now known as Sorgi * Sorgi comes up behind him, making noise so as not to startle him (Sorgi) M' Lord? (@Morgan) Sorgi (Sorgi) It's half after ten, best get some rest. * Sorgi sounds concerned, almost fatherly ------------------------------ Logging started for Blitzed:#7thseaic on Friday, 20 November 2020 00:20:44 Greenwich Mean 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 has quit (Killed (NickServ (GHOST command used by mads_))) ** mads_ is now known as Morgan (MollyK) [00:17] (Sorgi) It's half after ten, best get some rest. (MollyK) [00:19] * Sorgi sounds concerned, almost fatherly ** ChanServ sets mode(s) +o Morgan (@Morgan) The messenger said he'd return with a reply by nine (MollyK) The One who came from Atemlos? ** You're now known as CaptS ** Sorgi has quit (Ping timeout: 250 seconds) * @Morgan nods (CaptS) Maybe he got delayed and decided not to brave the dark roads? (@Morgan) maybe * CaptS looks out over the Port illuminated by a moon moving towards full (CaptS) Shouldn't think he'll arrive til the morning now, m'Lord (@Morgan) I'll wait a little longer... its peaceful and I'm not suffering nightmares * CaptS nods (CaptS) Koen has Middle Watch (midnight-4), and then I am on Morning watch. Maybe some sleep before you see either of us, m'Lord. * @Morgan nods (@Morgan) we'll see * CaptS bids him goodnight. It is very peaceful, the night isn't broken by hoofbeats. He starts to feel deeply tired not long before midnight * @Morgan moves back to his room (CaptS) *he hears the men swap over, and Captain Ulysses watches him, sat on the glass on the desk again ** You're now known as CaptUlysses (CaptUlysses) *putting the glass safely in the iconographs box seems wise. He has to decide whether to put it into the frame with the picture from their wedding day or not * @Morgan decides to put it in the frame, after cleaning it (CaptUlysses) *Sorgi was right, it does look like a happy day. Varick looks bright and lively, Molly looks as beautiful as she did to him as he had watched back up the aisle as she entered the church on her father's arm, and he himself looks genuinely happy and proud, the weary, haunted look he was used to seeing in his reflection gone. * CaptUlysses sits on the desk, watching him over the frame (@Morgan) see if you can keep your backside off this, hmmm? * CaptUlysses walks round it, climbing on to Morgan's lap with a yawn * @Morgan puts the box on the floor under the desk before fussing the cat (CaptUlysses) **It occurs to him that with the watch change, it is now Saturday, no longer Dietlinde's birthday, and he's a Duke. * CaptUlysses curls up, obviously intending to sleep * @Morgan leans back in the chair, trying to get comfortable (CaptUlysses) **It's not a chair that could be comfortable to sleep in * @Morgan grumbles, getting up and going through to bed (CaptUlysses) ((Herbs or no herbs? What does he do with the shard and shift? Getting undressed?)) * CaptUlysses follows along, spreading out width ways across the bed (@Morgan) ((herbs, shard put away, shift with him)) (CaptUlysses) **he has to heat the left over Smokey tea to mix the herbs in. He notices once he's fully undressed the scar on his thigh. It's not even a week old, but it looks fully finished to its puckered whiteness. He knows he got that in a magical battle with his cousin. But is that the sort of thing his snapped mind might conjure up to punish him for his failures to protect his loved ones? * @Morgan runs his finger over the scar a moment before trying to sleep * CaptUlysses lets him into the bed, then curls up in the crook of his arm like a baby. Sleep steals over him as quick as the darkness as he magically extinguished the lamp ** Morgan has quit (Quit: This computer has gone to sleep) ** You are now disconnected ------------------------------ Logging started for Blitzed:#7thseaic on Friday, 20 November 2020 08:36:11 Greenwich Mean Time ------------------------------ ** You have joined #7thseaic ** cantillon.be.eu.blitzed.org sets mode(s) +nt ** ChanServ sets mode(s) -o Molly