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Logging started for Blitzed:#7thseaic on Wednesday, 14 April 2021 19:20:07 British Summer Time
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** You have joined #7thseaic
** You're now known as Edward
-NickServ- Welcome to Blitzed IRC Network, Edward! 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.
(Edward) **He decides to take the opportunity to swing a sword around in the sunshine for a bit. No-one interrupts him for an hour, until Edward walks outside, hands in his pockets. He watches Morgan practice*
* @Morgan stops, watching Edward for a moment
(@Morgan) how was your friend?
* Edward nods
(Edward) More an acquaintance who owes me a favour
(@Morgan) oh? What favour would that be?
(Edward) When I uncovered one of the annexation plots against Sudlachenburg, I discovered his family lands were also being targeted by the same person. I told him so he could alert his family
(@Morgan) I was more referring to the favour I assume you've called in... which should be fairly large given your actions
(Edward) I haven't called it in, but I wanted to check I could
(@Morgan) what are you thinking?
(Edward) He's a bishop. His mentor is the Archbishop of Freiburg.
(@Morgan) what favour could you be thinking of calling in from a bishop...
(Edward) A special license
* Edward looks at Morgan
(Edward) They should wed
(@Morgan) They've time
(Edward) The talk will be less the quicker it is done
* @Morgan nods
(@Morgan) And before long the vultures will have found someone else to gossip about
(Edward) I want to keep all gossip to a minimum.
(@Morgan) I'm sure
* @Morgan performs a particularly vicious looking flourish
* Edward watches him
(Edward) You know this man well?
(@Morgan) Holzheim?
* Edward nods
(@Morgan) well enough
(Edward) I've been in his ship, but I don't know him. Is he trustworthy,  aside from this?
(@Morgan) Keep your moral outrage to yourself, she's not exactly innocent in this
(Edward) I am protective of her virtue
(@Morgan) Her virtue is her own to deal with. It was her choice.
(Edward) I am not accusing the man of rape. I want to know what sort of husband he will be
(@Morgan) At the risk of repeating myself... he's a good man
* Edward nods
(Edward) I can have the special license in my hands in under an hour. Have you spoken to him about his actions?
(@Morgan) A conversation has been had
(Edward) And his intentions towards our cousin?
(@Morgan) surprising
(Edward) Go on
(@Morgan) he asked her to marry him
* Edward does look surprised
(Edward) Did you push him to?
* @Morgan shakes his head
(Edward) How did he react to the news his actions have had consequences?
(@Morgan) Bewildered joy is probably the best way of describing it
(Edward) He is pleased?
(@Morgan) He was convinced he would never have a child... what do you think
* Edward nods
(Edward) Has she accepted him?
(@Morgan) remarkably. And she's keeping the child... he's gone to find a solicitor to draw up documents to protect her wealth and whatnot
* Edward looks genuinely relieved
(Edward) I am very glad she is keeping the child
* @Morgan nods
(@Morgan) me too
(Edward) It's not something I'd wish on anyone.
* @Morgan nods
(@Morgan) You'll notice that this got accomplished with no calling anyone out, no shouting...
(Edward) And when Father finds out?
(@Morgan) Well, then there'll be shouting, but its already dealt with... 
(Edward) Are you still leaving tomorrow at lunchtime?
* @Morgan nods
(@Morgan) thats the plan
(Edward) Shall I get the special license so they can wed in the morning?
(@Morgan) If it'll only take an hour, lets leave it for a little while... I don't want to spook her any more than she is
(Edward) Father would say she should have a polterabend
(@Morgan) Yes he would... but he'd also be livid if we held one without him
* Edward sighs
(Edward) It'll be two weeks before he gets here, but you will be gone by then
* @Morgan nods
* @Morgan sighs
(Edward) You should be here. She doesn't have Alarice, she should have _us_.
(@Morgan) I was thinking similar
(Edward) It should be soon
* @Morgan nods
(Edward) You're off to Avalon next?
* @Morgan nods
(@Morgan) a wedding to go to, ironically
* Edward smiles
(Edward) Not something you can easily cancel then?
(@Morgan) Maybe... I think a family wedding trumps that of a friend
* Edward nods
(Edward) After all, how likely was it that _Jarvie_ would wed?
(@Morgan) Not... very...
(@Morgan) I'll talk to Molly
* Edward nods
(Edward) **HH comes out, telling Morgan that Varick wants him to read the bedtime story, then he heads off, whistling**
* Edward watches HH go.
(Edward) I'll see you at dinner then
* @Morgan nods
(@Morgan) indeed
* @Morgan heads inside to read to Varick
(Edward) V: **He's sat up on bed with his raggedy old bear* can you tell me a story you've made up?
** You're now known as Varick
(@Morgan) a story I've made up?
* Varick nods
(Varick) Just anything
* @Morgan sets about telling a tale on the fly
* Varick clearly enjoys it,  and is almost asleep when he finishes it
(Varick) I could be a Koertig now *He says, sleepily*
(@Morgan) Yes, you can if you want
(Varick) Okay *his eyes close and his breathing slows*
* @Morgan smiles, watching him to make sure he's asleep before leaving the room
* Varick doesn't stir
* @Morgan heads downstairs
(Varick) **It's very quiet, and the clock strikes six, when every one would normally prepare for dinner
(@Morgan) [where are you?]
(Varick) [Our room. Has something happened?]
(@Morgan) [No. Noones around, I wondered where you were]
(Varick) [I was just taking a little time to pray before getting ready for dinner]
(@Morgan) [alright blossom]
(Varick) ((What does he do?))
* @Morgan wanders back out to the gardens
(Varick) **Even Edward has gone. He does hear some giggling from down by the pond though
* @Morgan wanders quietly in that direction
(Varick) **HH and Inga are sat at the edge. He has his arm wrapped around her, and she has her head on his shoulder. He kisses her crown. They seem to be at ease with each other
* @Morgan smiles, walking back towards the house
(Varick) **The staff are starting to get busy, mostly preparing the dinning room
* @Morgan tries to stay out of the way
(Varick) **Holzheim arrives back whilst he's doing so. He spots Morgan immediately, bowing "My lord"
** You're now known as Holzheim
(@Morgan) captain
(Holzheim) Everyone is well?
* @Morgan nods
(@Morgan) I believe so
(Holzheim) Might I have a word?
(@Morgan) of course
* Holzheim moves away from the staff
* @Morgan follows him
(Holzheim) I know everything has been done in the wrong order, but I would like to officially ask for your blessing on behalf of your family for Jarvinia's hand in marriage
* @Morgan nods
(@Morgan) I think I can grant that
(Holzheim) Thank you, my Lord. I would also like to apologise again for putting her in this position. If I had known it was possible, I would not have done it
(@Morgan) 'me nods
(@Morgan) I'm sure... as I explained to my brother, you're a good man
(Holzheim) I like to think so. I intend to be a good husband and father also
* @Morgan nods
(@Morgan) good
(Holzheim) I have the papers for Jarvie to sign. Do you want to read them, so that you can see how honourable my intentions are?
(@Morgan) I'll read them so I can reassure my brother
* Holzheim hands them over
* @Morgan reads through them
** You are now disconnected

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Logging started for Blitzed:#7thseaic on Thursday, 15 April 2021 15:11:24 British Summer Time
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** You have joined #7thseaic
(Holzheim) **The contracts look good. All of Jarvie's possessions, savings, and future earnings are hers. He will provide for her and any children. The bride price is a guilder, as is the morgengabe. His Will will be altered to benefit her and any future children. All in all, it is very generous and also unorthodox*
(@Morgan) My brother is not going to like it
(Holzheim) No offense, my Lord, but it isn't him I'm marrying
* @Morgan laughs
(@Morgan) No, its not
(Holzheim) Will Jarvie approve?
(@Morgan) Would you like me to go and find out?
* Holzheim nods
* @Morgan nods
(Holzheim) I think that would be a good idea
(@Morgan) I'll do that now
* Holzheim nods
(Holzheim) Thank you, my lord
* @Morgan scratches his head
(@Morgan) I think if she agrees to these terms, we can probably dispense with the lord and whatnot in private, don't you?
* Holzheim nods
(Holzheim) Yes, my lord
* @Morgan chuckles, wandering off to find Jarvie
** You're now known as Jarvie
* Jarvie is in her room
* @Morgan knocks on the door frame
(Jarvie) Come in
* @Morgan does so
* Jarvie is sat at a desk writing from notes. She doesn't look round
(Jarvie) Yes?
(@Morgan) beggin' yer pardon me lady, I bin sent wit' documens fer you t'read
* Jarvie laughs
(Jarvie) Let's have them then
* @Morgan hands them over
* Jarvie leans back in the chair, reading them with all the precision of one who often has to deal with contracts that could be to her disadvantage. She nods a little
(Jarvie) You read these?
* @Morgan nods
(@Morgan) of course
(Jarvie) What do you think to them?
(@Morgan) Unorthodox, but generous
* Jarvie nods
(Jarvie) I suppose my dowry should be two guilders
(@Morgan) _should_ be?
(Jarvie) To off-set the bride price and morgengabe
(@Morgan) I suppose so
* @Morgan sighs
(@Morgan) Edwards not going to like it because its not utterly traditional
(Jarvie) Let's be honest, Edward doesn't like much
(@Morgan) He does... he likes things just so. And he loves you.
* Jarvie looks at him
(Jarvie) Since when are you Edward's biggest fan?
* @Morgan frowns
(@Morgan) I'm not
* Jarvie looks at him
(Jarvie) At the wedding,  you seemed to be dismissive at best. Now you're defending him. What did I miss?
(@Morgan) We have... worked on our relationship
* Jarvie nods
(Jarvie) How did he get through the crap with Alarice?
(@Morgan) It was... a struggle. Both he and father were convinced it was a spat, a misunderstanding...
(Jarvie) Alarice would just make cruel comments for that. This was a proper enmity
* @Morgan nods
(@Morgan) She wanted to destroy me, see me completely broken
(Jarvie) I warned you she was dangerous. Something broke in Alarice a while ago,  and she was only getting worse.
* @Morgan nods
(@Morgan) I thought you were being... overdramatic
* Jarvie smiles
(Jarvie) Not my style
(@Morgan) I've noticed. 
* @Morgan sighs
(@Morgan) Edward and I have had our troubles, and we still butt heads... but I think we understand eachother better now
* Jarvie nods
(Jarvie) That's good. Just be glad you got the decent sibling.
(@Morgan) He has his moments
* Jarvie looks back at the documents in her hand
(Jarvie) So now what?
(@Morgan) You agree to them or not, if so, we arrange the wedding.
(@Morgan) Then, we all avoid my father until he's calmed down
* Jarvie laughs
(Jarvie) That would be a while
* @Morgan nods
(@Morgan) I've got three years of work ahead of me, so that should be fine
(Jarvie) Contracts look good. He's not the worst person to end up married to, I suppose
(@Morgan) as I've expressed numerous times to my brother, he's a good man... and he's not exactly hard on the eye
* Jarvie nods
(Jarvie) I wouldn't be in this predicament if he was
* @Morgan nods
(Jarvie) He's keen on raising the baby
(@Morgan) I knew he'd be thrilled at having one, but I didn't realise it went quite that far
(Jarvie) No. I don't know mug about his childhood, do you?
(Jarvie) Much*
(@Morgan) No, I don't
(Jarvie) Me either
(@Morgan) Best be asking, then
* Jarvie nods
(Jarvie) We've got a lot of talking to do
(@Morgan) Yes, you have
(Jarvie) This is not how I intended today to go
(@Morgan) I know
* Jarvie nods
(Jarvie) Not how I intended my life to go either
(@Morgan) From what I can see, it wont be _that_ much different
(Jarvie) I can keep working right the way through
(@Morgan) With a few adjustments, yes
(Jarvie) I'll have to stop actually digging at some point,  but there's plenty of other work
* @Morgan nods
(Jarvie) Once March comes, we'll see how everything is, and who the baby is going to live with
* @Morgan nods
(@Morgan) I don't see there being any issue with Holzheim raising it, providing he's the man I think he is
* Jarvie nods
(Jarvie) I like that despite thinking he couldn't, he never once asked me if the baby could be someone elses
* @Morgan nods
(Jarvie) I don't want any fuss. A simple wedding. That's it
(Jarvie) Yours was sweet, and you and Molly made a good show of it,  but thats my idea of hell
* @Morgan nods
(@Morgan) if thats what you want
(Jarvie) You can understand that I'm not a joyful bride filled with dreams of happy ever after?
* @Morgan nods
(@Morgan) I hope for happy, though... I always do
(Jarvie) You're a romantic
(@Morgan) Optimist... 
* Jarvie nods
(Jarvie) I'm a realist
(@Morgan) I hope for the best while preparing for the worst... 
(Jarvie) Makes sense to me. You want to come to the wedding?
(@Morgan) I need to talk to Molly about it
(Jarvie) I'm keen to get it over and done with
(@Morgan) I'm not terribly surprised
(Jarvie) Quicker it's done, the less pressure to make it some high society bullshit
* @Morgan laughs
(@Morgan) But we all love the high society bullshit
(Jarvie) You might
(@Morgan) Not particularly
(Jarvie) I need to talk to Grendlik
(@Morgan) No doubt
* Jarvie gets up, talking the documents, a quill and ink
(Jarvie) I'm going to sign it with Grendlik before Edward  gets involved
* @Morgan shrugs
(@Morgan) I accept those terms in fathers stead
(Jarvie) You outrank him anyway
(@Morgan) I outrank father, too
(Jarvie) That's what I meant
* @Morgan nods
* Jarvie heads towards the door
(Jarvie) Go talk to your wife
* @Morgan nods, walking behind her before going to find Molly
** You're now known as Molly
-NickServ- This nickname is registered. Please choose a different nickname, or identify via /msg NickServ identify <password>.
-NickServ- You are now identified for Molly.
* Molly is getting ready for dinner, wearing just a petticoat whilst brushing out her hair
(@Morgan) blossom
* Molly looks over her shoulder
(Molly) Yes, my love?
(@Morgan) we need to talk 
* Molly sits on the stool by the dresser, long curls over her shoulders and covering her breasts. She continues brushing, watching him
(Molly) What's the matter, liebling? Has she changed her mind?
(@Morgan) No, no... thats the problem... Since I cost her her sister, I should be here for her wedding
* Molly frowns
(Molly) You did no such thing. But yes, I think you should be here
(@Morgan) but what about Eiblinn?
* Molly looks thoughtful
(Molly) When is Jarvie to wed?
(@Morgan) Its to be arranged
(Molly) We cannot do both?
(@Morgan) If we stay longer, wont that stop us from reaching Avebury in time?
* Molly nods
(Molly) We are very tied for time, unfortunately
* @Morgan nods
(Molly) There is another problem also...
(@Morgan) that being
(Molly) One of the reasons our plans for Avebury is complicated is because we need to ensure you have that day to deal with the anniversary as you need
* @Morgan nods
(Molly) If we aren't there, where would we be?
* @Morgan shrugs
(@Morgan) I'm not sure
(Molly) Being here in Freiburg could be difficult?
(@Morgan) Perhaps
* Molly nods
(Molly) I do have to deal with my Father's things, and the payment has to be made for the Rose
** Morgan has quit (Quit: This computer has gone to sleep)
** Morgan has joined #7thseaic
** ChanServ sets mode(s) +o  Morgan
* @Morgan nods
* Molly pauses in her brushing
(Molly) I could go alone
(@Morgan) I'd... rather you didn't
(Molly) It would solve some problems though
(@Morgan) and magnify others
(Molly) Which others?
(@Morgan) Me, specifically
(Molly) You mean your potential nightmares?
* @Morgan nods
* Molly watches him
(Molly) You need me?
(@Morgan) You wish to go alone?
(Molly) I _could_ go alone, if that was bea
(Molly) Best*
(@Morgan) Given what happened on Dietlinde's birthday, is that wise?
* Molly bites her lip
(Molly) No. That would not be wise.
* @Morgan nods
(Molly) I will be at your side, wherever that is to be
(@Morgan) I don't want you to miss her wedding
(Molly) Nor do I want you to miss Jarvie's
* @Morgan nods, sighing
* Molly stands up, picking up a shift
(Molly) We could be back again by the beginning of October, and then go to Catterick after that...
* @Morgan nods slowly
(@Morgan) could do
(Molly) But the delay will raise more eyebrows
(@Morgan) whys?
(Molly) Because each day takes us closer to the birth, and shows how much after conception they got married
* @Morgan nods
(@Morgan) Edward can get a license within an hour... she wants something quiet, not... *he smiles slightly* high society bullshit
* Molly smiles
(Molly) I like it when you curse...
* Molly pulls on the shift, tugging her hair out of the neckline
(@Morgan) I'm merely repeating what my cousin told me
* Molly nods
(Molly) Is it possible they could wed before we leave?
(@Morgan) Probably... 
* Molly looks thoughtful
(Molly) Edward can get a special license... just like in your dream when he turned up insisting you marry me?
* @Morgan nods
(@Morgan) exactly
(Molly) That's an odd coincidence,  my love
* Molly starts putting on her eisen dress
(@Morgan) I'm starting to not  believe in them
(Molly) Coincidences?
* @Morgan nods
(Molly) Why liebling?
(@Morgan) Because they seem less and less to be actual coincidences
(Molly) Does that trouble you?
* @Morgan shrugs
(@Morgan) a little I suppose
* Molly nods
(Molly) It's troubling that the Nieblungen don't really know for sure why we dream as we do
* @Morgan nods
(@Morgan) they seem fairly sure its a result of all the little tinkerings they've made
* Molly nods
(Molly) It's a price we must pay for being together then?
(@Morgan) For the time being at least
* Molly smiles
(Molly) It's worth it, to be with you
(@Morgan) likewise my love
* Molly starts doing her hair
(Molly) What do you wish to do?
(@Morgan) Be with Jarvie when she weds. After that no doubt she'll want rid of me anyway
* Molly nods
(Molly) Then that is what we shall do
(Molly) We need to know when it will be, so we can make plans for whether we are staying here or returning to the ship. Have you spoken to Claudia?
(@Morgan) Briefly
(Molly) Was I correct?
* @Morgan nods
(Molly) Oh dear
(@Morgan) It doesn't seem to have caused any issues
(Molly) That is good. I know you didn't approve of it...
* @Morgan shrugs
(@Morgan) Its Claudia
* Molly smiles
(Molly) She's like nature, the only option is to just go with it?
(@Morgan) Something like that
* Molly finishes her hair
(Molly) We'd best go down for dinner I think
* @Morgan nods
(@Morgan) I suppose so, aye
* Molly smiles
(Molly) If you wished to just stay up here, I could say we both had a sudden, unexpected headache...
* Molly watches him with amusement
(@Morgan) No, Edward would appear with a medic in tow...
* Molly giggles
(Molly) That would be a shame, as I like to tend to you myself
* @Morgan nods
* Molly gives her hair a check
(Molly) Perhaps I'll content myself with quiet contemplation of that during dinner, Mon petit chou
* @Morgan nods
(@Morgan) It'll have to do for now I'm afraid
* Molly nods
(Molly) Was that all we needed to discuss?
* @Morgan nods slowly
(@Morgan) unless you want to know about a secret society
(Molly) Yes please!
* @Morgan sits down
(@Morgan) I found the controllers of Marcheline
* Molly comes to sit beside him, looking intrigued
(Molly) Who are they?
(@Morgan) A group of Eisen men and women with a goal of... hang on, they had a motto
(@Morgan) Stability, Progress and Rebirth
* Molly nods slowly
(Molly) Those sound good
* @Morgan nods
(Molly) But killing four guards and bringing a city to a standstill is not any of those things
(@Morgan) They'd recalled her, she seems to have ignored the order and gotten overly focussed, and damn the consequences
* Molly sighs
(Molly) Unfortunate
* @Morgan nods
(Molly) Did they want the seeds?
(@Morgan) No, they have a supply... they gave me an ultimatum
* Molly frowns
(Molly) That was unwise
(@Morgan) The options are I join them, they administer a double dose of the seeds and I go away happy, thinking I've solved the mystery of Marchelines masters, or they take action to stop me being a potential risk... though they very much want me to join
* Molly nods
(Molly) What have you decide
(Molly) Decided?
(@Morgan) I was thinking, since our views are aligned, I'd join them... even more so once I discovered they are being guided, unknowingly, by certain friends of ours
(Molly) Huh... they have essentially formed an army of sheep to keep other sheep in line?
(@Morgan) Something like that, it seems, aye...
(Molly) How are they managing it?
(@Morgan) Tough to say... they have an upper council, of sorts, who make the decisions
(Molly) It sounds rather complex
* @Morgan nods
(@Morgan) yes, it does
(Molly) Do you feel happier now you have uncovered it?
(@Morgan) Somewhat, aye
(Molly) Only somewhat,  my love?
* @Morgan shrugs
(@Morgan) It wasn't what I expected
(Molly) What did you expect?
(@Morgan) Enemies to be vanquished
(Molly) That must be a bit disappointing
(@Morgan) mildly, but only because its not what I expected. Its nice to know there are others working to the same ends as me, albeit because they're made to
(Molly) It certainly makes it more likely that your goals can be met
* @Morgan nods
(Molly) What must you do to join?
(@Morgan) They want an answer tomorrow
* Molly nods
(Molly) You have a great deal of things in your lap right now
* @Morgan nods
(Molly) And not the one thing you most like there! *she giggles, quickly kissing his cheek before standing up*
* @Morgan chuckles
(@Morgan) no, definitely not
(Molly) Sadly, you no longer have the time to catch hold of me and put me there, as I am going to dinner,  Mon petit chou *het tone makes it clear she is teasing*
(@Morgan) No, not right now I don't
* Molly giggles, moving to the door
(Molly) Another time then, if you manage to catch me!
* @Morgan nods
(@Morgan) indeed
* Molly opens the door, casting a quick glance back over her shoulder at him
(Molly) Are you coming?
* @Morgan sighs, getting up
(@Morgan) aye
(Molly) You don't want to?
(@Morgan) I'm a little peckish
* Molly nods, leading the way
** You are now disconnected

------------------------------
Logging started for Blitzed:#7thseaic on Friday, 16 April 2021 22:08:34 British Summer Time
------------------------------

** You have joined #7thseaic
* Molly speaks quietly as they go through the upper hall
(Molly) If you join, will you have go away on tasks like in your dream where Edward and I... ?
(@Morgan) Maybe... though I can refuse
------------------------------
Logging started for Blitzed:#7thseaic on Friday, 16 April 2021 22:12:55 British Summer Time
------------------------------

** You have joined #7thseaic
(Molly) Would you wish to?
(@Morgan) Not especially
* Molly smiles
(Molly) Alright
(Molly) How do you think your Father will react to the news his niece is increasing?
(@Morgan) badly, I expect
* Molly nods
(Molly) Are you glad he is not here?
(@Morgan) it makes it a little... simpler
* Molly nods, heading down the stairs
(Molly) He will possibly be happy to have  Koertig baby in the spring though?
(@Morgan) maybe. Eventually.
(Molly) After chastising you for it not being your son and heir...
* @Morgan nods
(@Morgan) indeed
* Molly glances at him sidelong a moment before continuing onwards towards the dinning room
(Molly) Besides, there may be another Koertig child come autumn
(@Morgan) oh?
(Molly) Edward and Mina
* @Morgan nods
(@Morgan) hopefully
* Molly looks slightly puzzled
(Molly) It was not obvious what I meant?
* @Morgan shrugs
(Molly) You didn't think I meant I was telling you I was with child?
(@Morgan) Perhaps a little
(Molly) I'm sorry
* @Morgan shrugs
(@Morgan) Hopefully Edwards worries will be put to rest quickly
* Molly nods, thoughtful
(Molly) I should imagine they will not be waiting to start building their family
* @Morgan nods
(Molly) It will be nice for you to be an uncle
* @Morgan nods
(@Morgan) indeed it will
* Molly doesn't say any more, going towards the dinning room. Jarvie and Holzheim are already sat at the dinning table talking over documents and glasses of wine. There's no sign of Inga and HH, Claudia or Edward.
(Molly) **Holzheim rises, bowing to them and waits until Molly is seated before sitting again* H: Good evening,  your Excellencies
(Molly) **The footman brings Morgan a note; "M, gone to Potts' house to be chaperone, Hannalore fallen out with Rheinpfalz and has turned up on his doorstep. 65 Breisgau Strasse, send re: license if you convince them. E."
* @Morgan mutters
* Molly glances at him
(Molly) What's wrong, liebling?
(@Morgan) Edward won't be coming
(Molly) J: He rushed off, and Claudia went with him
(@Morgan) that makes sense
(Molly) I wonder where Heinzharold and Inga are?
(@Morgan) Last seen down at the pond
(Molly) J: Did they fall in? *she sounds impatient,  and  glances at the clock. It's still three minutes before seven*
(@Morgan) Whats the rush Jarvie?
(Molly) J: I'm famished! Sometimes I can't stand even the smell of food, other times I could eat Xantha, hooves and all
* @Morgan scowls
(@Morgan) you leave my horse alone
(Molly) **everyone laughs*
(Molly) J: The lovebirds will have to have theirs cold. *she nods to a footman*
(Molly) H: *He looks at Jarvie with concern and affection* This hunger that comes and goes is normal?
(Molly) J: *she shrugs* I guess so?
* @Morgan nods slightly
* Molly watches them all a moment, then sips her wine
(Molly) Perhaps engaging a local midwife would be useful?
(Molly) **HH and Inga appear, holding hands** ((attention?))
(@Morgan) ((Molly))
* Molly looks a little distracted
(@Morgan) [are you alright?]
(Molly) **HH holds out Inga's chair before sitting beside her. The servants start putting food on the table.
(Molly) [Hmm? Oh, yes. Umm should I tell Inga she has grass in her hair?]
(@Morgan) [discretely]
(Molly) [And the dirt on your beat friends knees?]
(Molly) Best *
* @Morgan sniggers
(Molly) **This catches everyone's attention. Jarvie smirks* something to share, Cuz?
(@Morgan) No, not particularly
(Molly) **Dinner is a pleasant affair, with Holzheim telling them all sorts of tales about his life at sea. None are too rude, all are well-told and engaging. Jarvie also tells them stories of her travel and digs.  Its clear that the two of them genuinely like each other and enjoy each other's company. He and Jarvie seem relaxed as they tell Inga and Heinzharold that they are getting married. They give congratulations with the  enthusiasm of very happily married newlyweds**
(Molly) Very happily married newlyweds. Pudding has just finished and everyone is starting coffee when a footman brings him another note.
(Molly) It says: Morgan, Lusty Wench docked, Karlsruhe has some questions about a wreckage of a ship they passed on Wednesday. Let me know how you wish to proceed. Sorgi.
* @Morgan frowns
(@Morgan) Jarvie, have you a preference for when you wish the ceremony to be?
(Molly) J: As soon as we can, there's no point waiting. I'm not getting any less pregnant until March!
(@Morgan) Very well, I'll have the license arranged
(Molly) **Jarvie and Holzheim look happy with this. Molly speaks quietly to Inga, who blushes*
(Molly) **Morgan is given coffee by a footman*
* @Morgan speaks quietly to him
(@Morgan) Could you have a note sent to my brother. The license is needed as soon as possible.
(Molly) F: Yes, your Excellency
(Molly) **the footman goes off*
(Molly) [Everything alright, my love?]
(@Morgan) [Edward asked to be told when I know when he needs to sort the license. Hannalore has gone to Potts, and the Lusty Wench has docked]
* Molly sips her coffee [That's a risky thing for her to do. Are you going to speak to Federest?]
(@Morgan) [Edward went as chaperone. Yes, I think it best I go and deal with that as soon as I can]
(Molly) [Did you wish me to join you?]
(@Morgan) [I think that might be wise]
* Molly smiles slightly [incase someone needs patching up?]
* @Morgan sips his coffee
(Molly) **dinner is soon over, and Molly and Inga head upstairs together. Jarvie and Holzheim ask Morgan to countersign their documents
* @Morgan does so
* Molly comes downstairs a few minutes later with a bag, her sword and sword belt, and in her modified trousers
(Molly) Ready, liebling?
* @Morgan nods
(@Morgan) aye
(Molly) **HH looks her over before winking at Morgan* Looks like the worship is goin' s'mwhere more fun th'n a ball!
(Molly) Yur*
(@Morgan) Maybe we'll find time to pray, in such a pious manner as yerself, not minding the state of our knees...
(Molly) **HH has the good grace to actually blush at this. Molly laughs*
(Molly) **Holzheim looks to Jarvie* I should be going, there's much to be done. I'll come back in the morning. *she nods. He kisses her hand and bows*
(@Morgan) I'll have your license ready, we'll get it done as soon as we can
(Molly) H: which way are you headed, my Lord?
(@Morgan) to the docks
(Molly) H: *he smiles* excellent. The best of company. **He looks to HH and Jarvie before offering Molly his arm* Goodnight
(Molly) HH: **He watches them go* I'll stay 'ere  an' 'old down th' fort then, supreme ruler
* @Morgan nods
(@Morgan) you do that... 
(Molly) J: Goodnight Morgan. Being tired early, that's normal too?
* @Morgan nods
(@Morgan) We'll get you in touch with a midwife soon, she'll be able to better answer your questions
(Molly) J: You're doing fine so far *she smiles*
* @Morgan shrugs
(@Morgan) I try
(Molly) **Jarvie and HH both make their way to the stairs. Once he's outside, Molly is already mounted up, and Holzheim is complimenting her on the cleverness of her modified trousers. She gives Morgan a brief glance, looking for signs of jealousy or discomfort
* @Morgan frowns
(Molly) [He doesn't know what you know about them, liebling]
* @Morgan hauls himself up into the saddle
(Molly) **They make good time through the nicer parts of the city, even the dock isn't as bad as it would be of a weekend. On the way they discover that Holzheim's mother was an opera singer in Wische, his Father a minor noble who had her as a mistress. At the dock, he heads to his own ship, leaving them in the cooling night to go to the Lusty Wench which is docked behind it.
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(Molly) **A nearby church chimes for half after eight. The docks are quiet and the sun has set. The Lusty Wench has been tucked into her moored bed for the night, with only a couple of figures on deck.
* @Morgan whistles for the crews attention
(Molly) **The man whose attention he gets has a lantern, which is good. He's in his fifties, well-scarred as many an Eisenman in his age range is. He looks serious but not aggressive** good evening, what can I do for you?
(@Morgan) I'm here to see Karlsruhe and Federest
(Molly) M: *he gives a crew man instructions to take the horses, and can be heard shouting for Karlsruhe before he talks to them* Permission to cone aboard
(Molly) Come *
* @Morgan inclines his head, heading up the gangplank
* Molly follows along, looking around. Karlsruhe appears from below moments later. He bows to them "Good evening, your Excellencies"
* @Morgan touches the horseshoe before nodding to Karlsruhe
(@Morgan) I wasn't expecting to see you so soon
** You're now known as Karlsruhe
(Karlsruhe) A job came up, we got notice just after you left. We've been about a day behind you
* @Morgan nods
(Karlsruhe) Have you come to talk about that wreckage? Your captain seemed cagey.
(@Morgan) I've come to talk about a few things
(Karlsruhe) A drink then?
* @Morgan nods
(@Morgan) please
(Karlsruhe) *he asks Morgan* Her Excellency will join us?
* @Morgan looks at her
(@Morgan) do you want to speak to Federest? 
* Karlsruhe looks confused
(Karlsruhe) **Molly looks confused* Me? Why?
* @Morgan shrugs
(@Morgan) No reason... she'll be coming with us
* Karlsruhe looks happy with that, leading them to his study. Molly suddenly takes Morgan's hand a moment on the low light below deck
(Karlsruhe) **she doesn't say anything, just holding firmly until they get to the room*
(@Morgan) [Alright?]
(Karlsruhe) [Yes... just... for a minute there I could smell the smoke all over again, feel the heat...]
* Karlsruhe opens the door. The study is small but well-appointed, and very neat. Whiskey and brandy are given before they all sit at the desk. Molly sips hers gratefully
* @Morgan sips his whiskey
(Karlsruhe) Did you encounter the wreckage too?
(@Morgan) Not exactly
* Karlsruhe watches him patiently
(@Morgan) I caused it
(Karlsruhe) Why?
(@Morgan) They were drawing ships in disguised as a ship in trouble, then overrunning the helpers and looting it
* Karlsruhe frowns
(Karlsruhe) Dishonourable on the extreme
(@Morgan) indeed. Running the flag of Posen, too
(Karlsruhe) We owe you a debt of thanks then
* @Morgan shrugs
(@Morgan) I just did what was necessary
(Karlsruhe) We were a day behind. We would have helped.
(Karlsruhe) **Molly sips Her brandy thoughtfully**
(@Morgan) I've no doubt of that
(Karlsruhe) Thank you, your Excellency
* Karlsruhe sips his own whiskey
(Karlsruhe) That is not why you are here though]
(@Morgan) No... I'm here for a couple of reasons, one pertaining to you, one to Federest
* Karlsruhe nods a little
(Karlsruhe) Where would you like to start?
(@Morgan) Lets start with you... In three years I'll be taking the Grafdom in Gottkirchen. I'm going to want a sheriff with me I can trust
* Karlsruhe nods
(Karlsruhe) And you think I would suit ?
(@Morgan) I do
(Karlsruhe) I have a prior engagement, as you know
(@Morgan) I would like you to reconsider
(Karlsruhe) Why,m
(Karlsruhe) Why?
(@Morgan) Because you are a good man, and you could help me affect change for the better
(Karlsruhe) When do you need an answer?
(@Morgan) I'd like one fairly soon. There are things afoot that I know you can help with
(Karlsruhe) I will think on it
* @Morgan nods
(@Morgan) please do
* Karlsruhe nods
(Karlsruhe) And Federest?
(@Morgan) a personal matter
(Karlsruhe) You will find him and the others in one of the taverns
* @Morgan nods
(@Morgan) Its good to see you
(Karlsruhe) And you, your Excellency
* @Morgan finishes his whiskey
(Karlsruhe) **Molly does likewise with her brandy* Would they happen to be in the Crossroads tavern, by any chance?
* Karlsruhe nods "Most likely. It's their regular haunt when we're here"
* @Morgan nods
(@Morgan) Good. Speak soon Captain
* Karlsruhe rises, bowing
(Karlsruhe) Do you want me to show you out?
* @Morgan puts the glass down, standing
(@Morgan) No, we're fine to find our way out
* Karlsruhe does likewise
(Karlsruhe) **Molly does likewise. A moment later they're in the dim corridor again  and again she seeks out his hand *
** You're now known as Molly
(Molly) **they make quick progress into the cool night air, and the moment that they  would be observed she loosens her grip on his hand
* @Morgan keeps hold of it
* Molly squeezes it gently, breathing in the fresh air of the deck deeply
(Molly) To the tavern?
* @Morgan nods
(@Morgan) aye
* Molly nods, squaring her shoulders a little
(Molly) Alright. I suppose I ought to lead the way, as I've been there before?
* @Morgan nods
(@Morgan) when were you there?
(Molly) December. Kai and Kur-... _Kit_ took Evie and I there
(@Morgan) I see
* Molly glances at him
(Molly) That displeases you
* @Morgan nods
* Molly doesn't let go as she leads the way down the gangplank and on to the deck
(Molly) Where were you, that first night? Did you sleep outdoors?
(@Morgan) I didn't sleep
* Molly frowns, only the moon light giving away the disapproval
(Molly) Why not?
(@Morgan) I had places to get to
(Molly) Die Dauerhaftigkeit...
* @Morgan nods
(Molly) How many nights did you not sleep?
* @Morgan tilts his head
(@Morgan) Three, but I did doze in the daytime before the third night
(Molly) What made you decide to doze?
(@Morgan) I was tired
* Molly nods
(Molly) I nearly fell asleep in the tavern
(@Morgan) oh?
(Molly) You and I had spent the night talking, I'd spent the day in misery and hot soapy water, and I was not really enjoying the evening
* @Morgan nods
(Molly) I missed you. Being asleep and maybr dreaming of you was the only respite on offer, aside from drinking too much
* @Morgan nods
(Molly) **The tavern is easily reached, it's revelry in contrast with Molly's silence*
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* Molly looks at the noisy tavern's exterior, smiling a little
(Molly) I haven't been here in reality for a while, but we were only here in my dream a few days ago..
* @Morgan nods
(Molly) Do you know how you'll do this?
* @Morgan shakes his head
(@Morgan) I'm half tempted just to drag him to Potts
* Molly smiles
(Molly) He and Heinzharold are similar build...
(@Morgan) I'm stronger than I look
* Molly bites her lip, smiling
(Molly) Oh I am well aware how strong you are,  mon petit chou
* @Morgan shrugs
(@Morgan) maybe
* Molly sucks on her lower lip
(Molly) Liebling, you are distracting me! *She giggles*
* @Morgan chuckles
(@Morgan) sorry
(Molly) You are not at all though, are you? *She watches him, amused*
* @Morgan shrugs
(@Morgan) Maybe
* Molly briefly pecks him on the cheek, laughing softly
(Molly) That is not what I meant though. I asked Inga what clothes of Heinzharold's he wouldn't mind lending. I have some things less utilitarian than mercenaries usually wear, should he want to look a little smarter to see her
(@Morgan) Assuming he doesn't go absolutely berserk
(Molly) Despite sacrifing my nationality, I am still Avalonian at heart. It doesn't hurt to be prepared
* @Morgan nods
(@Morgan) we can hope
(Molly) Do you think violence likely?
(@Morgan) I've no idea
(Molly) That's why you wanted me here, incase you have to put him down?
(@Morgan) No, I just wanted to be with you
* Molly bites her lip again, looking thrilled
(Molly) Really?
* @Morgan nods
(Molly) Ah liebling... I'm touched
* @Morgan nods slightly
(@Morgan) maybe
* Molly frowns briefly
(Molly) I'm not being untruthful
(@Morgan) Maybe you'll be touched...
* @Morgan moves towards the door
* Molly inhales sharply
(Molly) You are highly detrimental to my concentration! *She follows along*
* @Morgan nods, opening the door
* Molly takes a deep breath, then walks in
(Molly) **it's just as it was in the dream. He can't immediately see the mercenaries
(Molly) Do we want a drink?
* @Morgan nods
(@Morgan) may as well since we're here
* Molly giggles, holding his hand so they aren't separated by the crowd, having to talk loudly
(Molly) What would you like?
* @Morgan shrugs
* Molly leads the way, as confident as any regular. She takes him to the busy bar. The innkeeper spots her. He's the typical older tavern owner, and eyes her up "I remember you. Colonel Dau's little scarlet-haired songbird"
* @Morgan raises an eyebrow
* Molly squares her shoulders slightly, her chin rising a little
(Molly) I am not Colonel Dau's anything. Two glasses of Drambuie, please.
(Molly) **He looks a little apologetic, getting their drinks. She pays him, and thanks very briefly. She hands Morgan a glass before surveying the room, jaw tense
(Molly) Can you see him?
* @Morgan looks round slowly
(Molly) **He spots Izemalous,  the dwarf mercenary standing on a table*
(@Morgan) He'll know
* Molly takes a deep breath, then picks up her glass.  She takes a little sip, then closes her eyes, brows coming together. Some of the tension goes out of her.
(Molly) It tastes just like in the dream
* @Morgan sips his
(Molly) **his tastes like it did when he was licking it from her neck and nipples on the grass behind this tavern, like drambuie but like her skin too*
* @Morgan clears his throat before heading towards the dwarf
* Molly follows. They arrive quickly, to hear the dwarf telling a joke Morgan heard in Fischler  "The Madame asked And what about the third wish?"
(Molly) **Federest isn't at the table, but the other mercenaries are, including the genuine Kurt Cristoban*
* @Morgan waits for the punchline
(Molly) Iz: I said Well... she asked the genie to make my cock hang down past my knee.
(Molly) ((Attention?))
* @Morgan glances at Molly
* Molly blinks rapidly, looking surprised and blushing, but not offended
(@Morgan) You still peddling that joke?
(Molly) *Izemalous and the others look surprised to see him* My Lord! *He bows from his position on the table. The others are about to rise and do the same*
* @Morgan waves them to stay seated
(Molly) Kurt: I'm sorry, my Lord, we didn't realise you were here *he looks concerned, glancing at Molly before glancing back at Morgan*
* @Morgan nods
(@Morgan) I figured as much... Any idea where I can find Federest?
* Molly is frowning now
(Molly) Kurt: He'll be back in a moment. *He looks uncomfortable,  as does the dwarf* Iz: I didn't mean to offend
* Molly glances at Morgan's expression, waiting before speaking
(@Morgan) Do either of us look offended?
* @Morgan looks fairly calm
(Molly) I'm only frowning because I cannot figure out the punchline *This raises a laugh*
(Molly) **Izemalous looks at Morgan* Should I start over, my Lord?
(@Morgan) I don't know, would you like to hear it from the start blossom?
* Molly nods, smiling. He launches into the most theatrical telling, obviously pleased to have an enthusiastic audience for once. Molly laughs, clearly amused despite the bad language. Federest walks in at the end of the recounting,  rolling his eyes as one who has heard it too many times. He looks in need of a shave
* @Morgan nods to him
(Molly) F: *he bows slightly to them* Good evening
* Molly thanks Izemalous, assuring him it really is a very good joke
(Molly) *Federest comes to stand by Morgan. He isn't drunk, but he's also not entirely sober, a tankard of ale collected on the way* I hope he has not offended you, your Excellency
(@Morgan) No, we're not nearly so precious as your normal noble types
(Molly) *He nods* Drink?
* Molly is listening to more jokes as the group all seem intent on getting her attention and making her laugh. She looks to be enjoying herself
* @Morgan shakes his head, sipping his drambuie
** You're now known as Federest
* Federest catches the smell of the drink that Claudia told Morgan is Hannalore's favourite, likely because it's a Vesten blend, and rocks back on his heels a little
(Federest) We caught up with you well
* @Morgan nods
(@Morgan) you made good time
(@Morgan) Mind you, we had a couple of minor detours
* Federest nods
(Federest) Are you in the city long, my Lord?
(@Morgan) No, we were due to leave tomorrow, but that may be delayed a little
(@Morgan) you?
(Federest) A few weeks at least. Castillean Don hell bent on kicking out the Montaigne troops occupying his land before they eat everything in sight and father all of next year's babes. Karlsruhe wants to take the contract, even though the pay is poor.
* @Morgan nods
(@Morgan) I can understand that
(Federest) **Molly says something that has all the mercenaries shocked and laughing
(Federest) Once it's organised, we'll be down there  til it's done or we're all dead. You know how it is.
* @Morgan nods
(@Morgan) I wonder if I can persuade you to not go
(Federest) He might be swayed, but *He sighs* I think we both know that it's more than just money on this one
(@Morgan) I mean... you, specifically
* Federest shrugs
(Federest) Maybe. You are looking for a bodyguard?
* @Morgan raises an eyebrow
* Federest shrugs again, drinking from his tankard
(Federest) It happens
(@Morgan) Is there somewhere we can talk, quietly?
(Federest) **Molly sips the drambuie. He can spot the little fidget that no-one else notices
(Federest) There's a bit of open land out back that's quiet
* @Morgan nods before speaking to Molly
(@Morgan) we're going outside to talk... you wish to stay?
(Federest) M: You are happy for me to stay?
(@Morgan) if you're happy to... I've no doubt the gentlemen can ensure your safety...
(Federest) Kurt: *He looks to Morgan* We will keep her safe
(Federest) Iz: Do we need to keep her sober too? **there's some laughter*
* @Morgan shrugs
(@Morgan) we won't be long, but if she wishes for another drink, please do
(Federest) **Molly cheerfully downs what's left of the drambuie. They move around to make a gap for her, one of the mercenaries goes to the bar, and Izemalous starts a new joke "There once was a man with three sisters, a box of frogs, and a tambourine..."
* @Morgan heads out to the land out the back
* Federest follows on with his tankard. It is empty our here, lit only by the lantern at the rear if the tavern, just like in the dream
(Federest) They'll treat her well. They might talk like sailors, but they never forget that they are gentlemen
* @Morgan nods
(@Morgan) I wouldn't have left her with them if I thought otherwise
* Federest nods
(Federest) What do you need, my Lord?
(@Morgan) I met Hannalore
* Federest looks suddenly very much more like a displeased, maybe even jealous,  nobleman
(Federest) I see. To what end?
(@Morgan) The winter ball... 
* Federest inclines his head briefly
(Federest) She is well?
* @Morgan sighs
(@Morgan) she's deeply unhappy
* Federest 's skill at concealing his body language and expression is far below Morgan's ability to see through it, so Morgan sees the protectiveness and anger there
(Federest) Has her husband hurt her?
(@Morgan) No... Though he brings her no happiness because he isn't you
* Federest looks guilty
(Federest) She was supposed to love him
(@Morgan) She doesn't. She sees it all as a prison. There is only room in her heart for you, and that pain has not gone away
* Federest looks up at the stars a moment
(Federest) I am sorry she is unhappy
(@Morgan) I understand your reasoning, but you are wrong... 
(Federest) She cannot know about this
(@Morgan) Your vows meant nothing to you?
(Federest) How do you know about that?
* @Morgan stares at him
(@Morgan) You do realise she would rather live in a hut with you than a castle without...
* Federest returns it, with a degree of hostility
(Federest) She would be miserable as soon as it got cold, or the food ran out, or when she was dressed in rags and her former friends were in their finery. Assuming she didn't end up in a jail cell for murder.
(@Morgan) You underestimate her
(Federest) So do you
* @Morgan shrugs
(Federest) Did you meet _him_?
* @Morgan nods
(Federest) What is he like?
(@Morgan) Dull. Uninteresting. 
(@Morgan) A peacock
(Federest) He could try harder
(@Morgan) You should try harder. She hates her life as it is and is just waiting for it to end
* Federest bows his head
(Federest) If she finds out, she'll kill him and it'll end sooner than it should, because of me
(@Morgan) No, she wont
(Federest) You don't know her
(@Morgan) I know people who do and, as impulsive and... vesten as she is, I think you are wrong, just like you were wrong about staying away
(Federest) You were admiring my conviction three weeks ago...
(@Morgan) Before I saw the pain she is still in
(Federest) One day, she will stop grieving
(@Morgan) Trust me on this... she will not
(Federest) Then what? What do you expect me to do? She is married, I am a _mercenary_. I could be dead for real by winter. I will not let her throw her life away for a man who can give her nothing. It is better that she stays where she is and moves on
(@Morgan) She will not move on... and all she wants is you. Thats all she yearns for. She'd give all of the high society things in a heartbeat to have you
(@Morgan) As fr your job, well... I'm fairly sure I could find you somewhat less dangerous employment
(Federest) She might think that she'd be happy giving it all up for me, but the shine would wear off, and a life of poverty would grind down her spirit. Eventually, resentment would set in
(@Morgan) So you'd prefer her be wishing for death every day? Her soul screaming into the void...
* Federest looks genuinely pained
(Federest) She could feel that at my side. The difference is that this way, she doesn't think I failed her. She remembers me as a good man who loved her to distraction and who just wanted to marry her, run a freiarrdom with her, and have a brood of part-vesten beserkers in our nursery.
(@Morgan) Strictly speaking you did marry her
* Federest nods briefly
(Federest) If the ceasefire had come six months earlier, we'd have had that
(Federest) Could you take your Duchess away from this privileged life and make her go without all the comforts, make her live without title, wealth and land, and 'll she gets in return is you, as a man as common as any farmhand?
(Federest) All *
(@Morgan) Yes, because of the love we have, especially if she was miserable
(Federest) And if she was married to someone else?
(@Morgan) Then I would do the decent thing and ask those willing to help to do just that
(Federest) There is no helping here. She and I cannot be together
(@Morgan) Because you're determined to make her miserable?
(Federest) I want her to be safe. She is not safe knowing, and she is not safe living a peasant's life. She deserves the wealth and comfort he can give her. Why can't you understand that I have to do what is best for her, even if it isn't what she or I like?
(@Morgan) Because you swore you would be with her whether in riches or destitution
* Federest grinds his teeth
(Federest) Because I was a naive idiot who had no idea what actually being poor looked like. Not poor-but-titled,  but actually poor. I grew up so privileged that I had no idea what destitution was. Most noble-born people don't. Hanna definitely does not.
(@Morgan) You gave your _word_
* Federest 's breathing becomes slower, measured and even
(Federest) I did
(@Morgan) Are you or are you not a man of your word?
* Federest breathes even slower
(Federest) I am
* @Morgan speaks quietly
(@Morgan) prove it
(Federest) By what, ripping her heart out and having her hate me forever?
(@Morgan) By being the man you claim to be and standing by your word
(Federest) She is married.
(@Morgan) We'll work on that. I can be persuasive
(Federest) It will destroy her.
(@Morgan) No, it won't. 
* Federest downs his ale
(Federest) Go away, I want to think on it.
* @Morgan watches him a  moment
(@Morgan) Think fast
(Federest) I know, you're leaving tomorrow
* @Morgan shrugs
(@Morgan) I know the pain she's dealing with. I would bring that to an end as quickly as possible
* Federest plonks himself down on the grass,  crossing his legs and closing his eyes
(@Morgan) Courage, Federest
* @Morgan heads back into the tavern
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** cantillon.be.eu.blitzed.org sets mode(s) +nt 
** ChanServ sets mode(s) -o  Karlsruhe
** Morgan has joined #7thseaic
** ChanServ sets mode(s) +o  Morgan
(Karlsruhe) **Karlsruhe is coming out of the door as Morgan is trying to go in* My Lord
* @Morgan nods to him
(Karlsruhe) Curiosity got the better of me, more so when I realised her Excellency is being subjected to the sort of jokes that would make most noblewomen faint. What's going on?
(@Morgan) Federest and I were talking... he's very angry with me just now
* Karlsruhe looks a little surprised
(Karlsruhe) He's generally slow to anger. Do you want me to speak with him?
(@Morgan) No, his anger is understandable
* Karlsruhe nods slightly
(Karlsruhe) What have you done, my Lord?
(@Morgan) I met the woman he loves, and I've seen how much pain she's in. I felt he needed to know, since he can alleviate that
(Karlsruhe) What woman?
(@Morgan) Hannalore
(Karlsruhe) I have no idea what you're talking about, my Lord. To the best of my knowledge he's never formed any attachments whatsoever. He is the one I rely on to bring the others safely back if they visit certain establishments
* @Morgan sighs
(@Morgan) So he's not told you
(Karlsruhe) Clearly not. Who is this woman,  and why is she in pain?
(@Morgan) The love of his life... she believed him dead and has been in mourning for six damn years and its not lessening at all
(Karlsruhe) *he wears the deep frown of a man who has been a widower only a few months less than Hannalore has believed herself to be almost a widow.*
(Karlsruhe) He's an ungrateful idiot. He has no idea what it's like to suffer it, or what we would give up to have them back.
* @Morgan nods
(@Morgan) thats what I've been telling him
(Karlsruhe) Where does she live?
* @Morgan raises an eyebrow
(@Morgan) That part is complicated
(Karlsruhe) Why?
(@Morgan) She married, though certainly not for love
* Karlsruhe nods
(Karlsruhe) How has this situation come about?
(@Morgan) which part, exactly?
(Karlsruhe) All of it
* @Morgan sips his drink
(@Morgan) How does it ever happen. They met and fell in love, exchanged vows of sorts, though in her culture thats as near as dammit a marriage, then he went off to war. With his lands gone he has nothing to support her in noble circles so decided it best not to correct her belief he was dead
* Karlsruhe shakes his head
(@Morgan) I understood his reasoning... but having seen the depth of her pain without him...
(Karlsruhe) *he nods* Unacceptable. There's no justice in that.
* @Morgan nods
(@Morgan) Had she been happy, I'd have thought differently, but she isn't
(Karlsruhe) Is he angry because you have told him he should be honest?
* @Morgan nods
(@Morgan) basically
(Karlsruhe) What about her husband?
(@Morgan) I'm trying to think my way through that...
(Karlsruhe) He needs to apologise to her
(@Morgan) He needs to be the man he claims he is and stand by his word. And damn well work with me to solve the situation
(Karlsruhe) Where is he?
* @Morgan hikes his thumb towards the yard
(@Morgan) out there, thinking
(Karlsruhe) Is she Eisen?
(@Morgan) Vesten
* Karlsruhe nods
(Karlsruhe) And you have seen her recently?
* @Morgan nods
* Karlsruhe thinks for a little while
(Karlsruhe) He goes to her, or his employment ends. I won't be party to his cowardice or her agony.
(@Morgan) Therein lies another issue... what if he goes to her and, being a mercenary, getting killed is an occupational hazard
(Karlsruhe) Death is always a possibility. "Remember that all we have is “on loan” from Fortune, which can reclaim it without our permission—indeed, without even advance notice. Thus, we should love all our dear ones, but always with the thought that we have no promise that we may keep them forever—nay, no promise even that we may keep them for long."
* @Morgan smiles slightly
(@Morgan) You will aid me in this?
(Karlsruhe) However you need. He cannot be allowed to squander his chance to put this right. One day, it will be too late, and he will hate himself then far more than he will hate us now
* @Morgan nods
(@Morgan) agreed. I need to figure out what to do about her husband
(Karlsruhe) First don't you need to know whether the lady will still want him?
(@Morgan) I have it on good authority she'd give up all of the high society and noble lifestyle to have him with her
(@Morgan) Though, she may beat the living daylights out of him first
(Karlsruhe) It is deserved
(Karlsruhe) Does her husband love her?
(@Morgan) I can't say I disagree. No, I don't think so. He is only intimate with his mistress.
(Karlsruhe) Keeps a mistress.  I see.
(Karlsruhe) **there's strong disapproval in his microexpression}
* @Morgan nods
(Karlsruhe) I have always found that disrespectful
(@Morgan) I can see that
(Karlsruhe) I didn't used to. That was the norm, where I grew up. It was my wife that set that attitude in me.
* @Morgan nods
(Karlsruhe) "If you respect her, you marry her then bed her. Once you marry her, you don't disrespect her by bedding anyone else." It was the... *he thinks, smiling slightly* fifth rule of marital harmony.
* @Morgan looks intrigued
(Karlsruhe) There were many. She never forgot one, either. Sometimes she'd make up a new one just to make me laugh
(@Morgan) She sounds like a wonderful woman
(Karlsruhe) She was. Her favourite was rule one: there is very little that could be wrong with your wife that a slow kiss can't fix
(@Morgan) I rather think my wife would appreciate that one
* Karlsruhe nods
(Karlsruhe) It's a sound rule. Number two was "A spouse's warm legs should always be available at night to warm cold feet"
(@Morgan) I think thats just a woman thing
* Karlsruhe nods
(Karlsruhe) My feet never got that cold. Hers were always like tiny blocks of ice. Every now and then in the middle of the night Is swear I can feel them on my calves
* @Morgan nods quietly
(Karlsruhe) Rule thirty seven was "A husband never suggests his wife may be with child, because it might spoil her surprise in telling him"
* Karlsruhe looks at Morgan
(Karlsruhe) With our fourth, she thought it was funny not to tell me at all. It gave her months of enjoyment when I teased her about her growth and feigned confusion. She was delighted when I pretended not to know where our new born son had come from.
* @Morgan chuckles
(Karlsruhe) I was a much less serious man with her. She brought out the best in me
(@Morgan) They do that
* Karlsruhe smiles
(Karlsruhe) They do. *He breathes deeply* I don't talk about her enough. Thank you for listening.
(@Morgan) Anytime, Karlsruhe. Its my pleasure
(Karlsruhe) Shall we go and kick some sense into Federest before he ends up ruining his life?
(@Morgan) lead the way
* Karlsruhe finds him, sitting down beside him
(Karlsruhe) You're an idiot and you don't deserve her.
(Karlsruhe) *Federest looks at Morgan* You've told him.
(@Morgan) So it would appear
(Karlsruhe) *Federest looks angry, but doesn't move* Why?
(@Morgan) Because he asked what I'd done to make you angry
(Karlsruhe) His Excellency and I have a much better idea of how Hannalore has suffered. You chose not to be at her side, you're blind to the sheer hell of losing a wife.
(Karlsruhe) F: I had to. She couldn't thrive in poverty, and that's all I can offer
* Karlsruhe looks at Morgan "Is she thriving in wealth?"
(@Morgan) Absolutely not
* Karlsruhe looks back to Federest "As Seneca says: "If what you have seems insufficient to you, then though you possess the world, you will yet be miserable." She is miserable and will remain so, because she doesn't have you
(Karlsruhe) F: I can't bear to see her ground down each day by the life we'd have. *He directs this at Morgan *
(@Morgan) I've met her, there's no grinding her down
(Karlsruhe) Is she not being ground down by the life you don't have? Is it better that she has suffered where you haven't had to see the consequences?
(Karlsruhe) F: *He looks guilty* Is she truly that unhappy?
* @Morgan nods
(Karlsruhe) I hope you will never have to survive the pain of this. But if you keep avoiding your responsibility, one day she'll be gone from you and there's no going back. *He looks to Morgan grimly*
* @Morgan shifts his shoulders, causing cracking noises
(Karlsruhe) You've got the chance to change it. You're more lucky than you can appreciate. Don't fuck this up. If you can't do it for her, do it for those of us who don't have that luxury.
(Karlsruhe) **Federest looks at Morgan watchfully but says nothing*
* @Morgan winces
(Karlsruhe) **Federest looks at the ground* You're right.
(Karlsruhe) You will find her and tell her the truth?
(Karlsruhe) F: *He nods* I can't let her suffer. She was supposed to move on and live happily ever after
(@Morgan) I suspect they're going to want somewhere private to talk... and I expect she'll be rather... vocal
(Karlsruhe) F: I think Rheinpfalz needs a bodyguard
* Karlsruhe looks at Morgan 'She's a Freiarrin?!"
* @Morgan nods
(Karlsruhe) I'll take him over the river and to Rheinpfalz myself
* @Morgan looks at Federest
(@Morgan) why does he need a bodyguard?
(Karlsruhe) F: Because she may decide to remove him once she knows I am not dead
(@Morgan) He has a duel in the morning, perhaps that'll happen on its own
(@Morgan) Pick a place, Federest, I'll get her there
(Karlsruhe) F: Why does he have a duel?
(@Morgan) Ego, mostly
(Karlsruhe) F: I don't want to take her on the ship. Where is she now?
(Karlsruhe) [You've been out there a long time, do you need me?]
(@Morgan) [We're alright blossom]
(@Morgan) At a friend of my brothers home
(Karlsruhe) [Teasingly: Do you wish me to tell him not to be an ass, my love?]
(Karlsruhe) F: I could see her there?
(@Morgan) [No, I think we're making progress]
(@Morgan) No... I don't want him jumping to the aide of a woman in distress, it'll just complicate things
(Karlsruhe) F: your brother?
(@Morgan) [Do you think Jarvie would allow us to let Federest see Hannalore at her house?]
(@Morgan) His friend
* @Morgan scratches his chin
(@Morgan) or my brother, actually
(Karlsruhe) [I don't see why not. Will Hannalore wake Varick though?]
(@Morgan) [I'm running out of ideas]
(Karlsruhe) [I think Jarvie's will be fine. I can go to keep an eye on Varick just incase]
* @Morgan sighs
(@Morgan) I know where we can go
(Karlsruhe) F: where?
(@Morgan) My cousin has a house here... we're staying there.
(Karlsruhe) F: thank you. I will try not to bleed to death on your cousin's carpets
(@Morgan) Alright then... Karlsruhe, would you accompany him and my wife? I'll go find Hannalore
* Karlsruhe gets up, motioning him to one side
* @Morgan moves to him
(Karlsruhe) What is your plan? Are you going to tell her he's alive and there,  or just take her in?
* @Morgan speaks quietly
(@Morgan) She's already aware
* Karlsruhe grimaces
(Karlsruhe) Alright. We will need time to get horses, and ideally get him scrubbed up. Can you give us extra time? ((Potts house is no further from the dock than Jarvie's, and it's only a five minute walk between the dwellings))
* @Morgan nods
(@Morgan) but not much
(Karlsruhe) Do you want me to pass on a message to your wife, or will you go to her now?
(@Morgan) I'll tell her... you're going to get him to the ship to scrub up? 
(Karlsruhe) No I'll get a room here, it's quicker for hot water
* @Morgan nods
(@Morgan) get that underway, I'll go speak to my wife
* Karlsruhe nods, motioning Federest and heads indoors with him
* @Morgan goes to find Molly
** You're now known as Molly
-NickServ- This nickname is registered. Please choose a different nickname, or identify via /msg NickServ identify <password>.
-NickServ- You are now identified for Molly.
* Molly Is where he left her
** You are now disconnected