------------------------------ Logging started for Blitzed:#7thseaic on Saturday, 24 April 2021 11:59:17 British Summer Time ------------------------------ ** You have joined #7thseaic (Molly) **He dreams he passes the washing line outside a tiny farming cottage. On the line are Molly's only two dresses, two pairs of stockings, one petticoat and one chemise. It's a sad sight, and he wishes he could give her so much more. (Molly) But the benefit is that he knows his beloved wife is wearing only her second chemise in the house, the only other clothing she has, and he has an idea. (Molly) He can't give her a title, or wealth, or land. But he can give her love. He's always felt she deserved more, but that's not the life either of them was born to. (Molly) When he gets indoors, still dirty and sweaty from ploughing, she's in the backroom, knelt praying beside their straw mattress on the ground. (Molly) "...weather for the crops so we have a good harvest. Let the pigs grow strong and large. Help us be able to pay the rent. Let me be the best wife to my husband, that I am his helpmeet and his joy. Please protect and keep him, and grant him the blessing of your love. Amen" (Molly) He says Amen too, startling her. She gets up from the floor, coming to embrace him tightly. He gropes her bottom boldly, making her laugh, before dragging off her chemise and chucking it into the soapy water in the wash tub in the main room with a grin. (Molly) She laughs "Morgan! I don't have a stitch to wear now!". He shrugs, still grinning "I've no more work til nightfall, you don't need clothes". She runs her hands down his chest, smiling playfully "Won't I get cold?" (Molly) He bends, picking her up, and once her legs are around him he returns to squeezing and stroking her bottom "No, blossom, I'll keep you warm" (Molly) He kisses her passionately as he lays her down gently on the heavily darned sheets. They don't have much, but they have each other, and that is all they need. (Molly) **He wakes up, he's on his back and she has her head on his shoulder, curled into him. He guesses an hour has passed since he fell asleep. She speaks softly "Are you alright?" ** * @Morgan nods (@Morgan) aye (Molly) Good. You've only been asleep a little while (@Morgan) So it seems (Molly) I haven't fallen asleep yet (@Morgan) why my love? (Molly) I think my body misses the rocking motion of the water. * @Morgan nods (@Morgan) it adapts so quickly. I found that some sailors when they return to land rock from side to side to counteract the waves that are no longer influencing them * Molly nods against his chest (Molly) I always feel like I have to refind my balance (@Morgan) its quite normal * Molly nods (Molly) You sighed happily in your sleep a moment ago... * @Morgan nosd (@Morgan) I'm not surprised (Molly) Something nice? (@Morgan) we were being intimate... though it was more than that * Molly smiles in the darkness (Molly) You've started dreaming this a lot. What was the something more? (@Morgan) We had nothing... just our rented home, we were farmers but we had eachother (Molly) Oh! And that made you happy, my love? (@Morgan) we were happy (Molly) That's nice to hear. Do you think that's just from tonight, or an alternate path? (@Morgan) Just tonight (Molly) It's nice to know your mind thinks you would be happy like that with me though, liebling (@Morgan) Something I know deep down blossom, * Molly places a kiss on his chest (Molly) You should go back to sleep, my love (@Morgan) probably (Molly) Shall I sing again? (@Morgan) please (Molly) **She sings to him something she was singing in Avalonian in the clearing behind Die Dauerhaftigkeit on the night of their polterabend, and he falls asleep easily again* (Molly) **He starts to dream, back in his memories, with no idea that's all it is. It is the Shadowfayre, January 1666, more than 4 and a half years before he went to sleep. (Molly) Sudlachenburg's residents are almost all here. It's past dusk in the clearing behind die Dauerhaftigkeit where his parents had had their polterabend, and where Edward might one day have his, if he ever spent time in Sudlachenburg rather than in Freiburg as usual. (Molly) Dietlinde and he hadn't had one at all a year ago when they wed, just a quick marriage in the forest, then to their new home to consummate it. (Molly) There was no broken plate to foretell the child she is now carrying, the reason she had stayed at home tonight. He wanted to protect her and his unborn child from the cold. (Molly) *She had assured him she would be fine alone, despite their child being due in four weeks, and she seemed it as he left, working on the christening gown and with his encouragement to think more on baby names as they still had none decided. (Molly) The Shadowfayre was important to him, and Sudlachenburg. He was still the Veisgraf and should be there. And she wanted him to enjoy himself, see his friends and drink some blokners, as is the tradition. (Molly) Morgan and her parents are sat at a table, choosing a good spot near the bonfire, drinking Blokners and appelschlaft. The dancing is in full swing and the space crowded. He can hear Heinzharold laughing deep within the close dancing of the country waltz. (Molly) ((Attention?)) (@Morgan) ((HeinzHarold)) (Molly) **He spots his best friend easily, and in his arms a young woman with dark red hair that he has never seen before. HH leads her from the dance floor, giving her a tankard which must have blokners in it. She's wearing a purple corset and skirt over a white shift, an expensive colour, way out of the league for commoners. * @Morgan drinks some of his blokners, swinging his gaze over the crowd (Molly) **Verity and Adalbrecht are talking to Alarice and Karsten near the house. Claudia is sat at a table with Grunhelm and a few other villagers. He hears Heinzharold laugh again, alongside an unfamiliar feminine giggling. (@Morgan) I'd best go make sure HeinzHarold isn't making a nuisance of hi'self (Molly) **Otto nods, looking relaxed, not at all formal* Best had, you never know with him * @Morgan stands up, taking his drink and moving to his friend * Molly looks at him with a fond smile "Well, hello!" at the same time HH says "Where's Dietlinde?". Molly glances at HH, a slight frown of puzzlement. (@Morgan) Home, didn't want her catching cold * Molly blinks rapidly a moment, then glances around the clearing (Molly) HH: Makes sense to me, safer for the baby * @Morgan nods (Molly) "It would be a bit cold and late to bring Jana..." **Molly says quietly, looking distracted* * @Morgan frowns (@Morgan) who? (Molly) Hmmm? Oh, sorry, my mind wandered. * @Morgan looks confused (@Morgan) I'm Morgan * Molly frowns, speaking quietly to Heinzharold. It sounds to Morgan like maybe she asks what year it is. Whatever he whispers back makes her turn pale. Her expression becoming politely neutral. She curtsies to him* (@Morgan) Are you quite alright? (Molly) HH: Molly, this is my best friend Morgan. Morgan, this is Molly, she's... a gentleman's daughter, from Avalon (Molly) *she squares her shoulders slightly, and pushes a wayward red curl from her face. She smiles politely, watching him* I am pleased to make your acquaintance, Veisgraf Sudlachenburg (@Morgan) and I yours, Molly... (Molly) *she scans the crowd a moment, blinking rapidly as she spots Otto and Sascha, and her brows raising a little as she sees Alarice and Karsten* I've never been to the Shadowfayre before... (@Morgan) No, they're not held in Avalon * Molly brings her attention back to him (Molly) No, just here in Sudlachenburg * @Morgan nods (Molly) HH: Polka comin' up soon, you dancin', Almighty Overlord? * Molly watches HH, smiling slightly, but doesn't interrupt (@Morgan) No, I'll be doing my duty, kissing hands, shaking babies * Molly bites her lip a moment before looking at Morgan (Molly) If you will excuse us, Heinzharold was going to show me the pumpernickel bread * @Morgan nods (@Morgan) of course. Don't eat it. * Molly looks thoughtful (Molly) Oh yes. Why is that again? (@Morgan) just... don't. * Molly nods. She watches him a moment longer (Molly) *he offers Molly his arm and she takes it. He smiles at her like he smiles at Inga before looking at Morgan* By your leave, your Serene Excellency … * @Morgan nods, saluting him with his tankard (Molly) *Molly walks off with HH. She's talking to him. She has a tension to her shoulders that she didn't have before Morgan was introduced* (Molly) *Claudia appears at Morgan's side, also carrying a tankard. She watches the retreating pair* You know her? ** You're now known as Claudia * @Morgan shakes his head (@Morgan) Not until just now (Claudia) He brought her with him when he turned up from his trip to Freiburg *she's frowning* (@Morgan) Whats got your goat? (Claudia) Suspicious, I suppose. War only ended a year ago (Claudia) **Claudia is watching Molly's back intently as she and Heinzharold leave the busy group of people to go over to the table near the treeline. Morgan would suspect it was her bottom, if Claudia was a man* (@Morgan) Whats your point? (Claudia) Why is she here? What does she want with Heinzharold? * @Morgan glances at her (@Morgan) I'd say the last bit is fairly obvious... * Claudia nods a little (Claudia) They seem close… (@Morgan) That is a little odd, I'll give you that (Claudia) When have you ever known him bring a girl home with him? * Claudia continues to watch them as they stand talking by the pumpernickel bread (@Morgan) Maybe he _really_ likes her * Claudia nods (Claudia) She's pretty enough, I suppose **She folds her arms* (@Morgan) Thats really bothering you * Claudia just shrugs. Suddenly, the temperature seems to drop (Claudia) Unusual hair... *She glances around a moment* * @Morgan nods (Claudia) **Everything seems quieter, first the breeze, then the fire crackle, then the musicians * @Morgan frowns, looking round * Claudia looks at him (Claudia) Odd * @Morgan nods (Claudia) **Molly and HH are still by the table. Due South, it's the closest part of the clearing to where the trees eventually become black-barked. People seem to start noticing something isn't right * @Morgan slowly surveys the horizon, turning full 360 degrees * Claudia finishes her drink before sticking the tankard down, noticeably watchful now (Claudia) **Aside from superstitious whispering, there's nothing to see (Claudia) You spooked yet? (@Morgan) Not... entirely... (Claudia) **The air starts to feel sharp. The ambient noise lessens further. He gets a sense of deja vu * @Morgan starts sniffing the air (Claudia) **An unusual smell, it smells like fear, and metal, and the burning wood of the Schwarzenwald Sharp air. Unnatural quiet. Coldness. Morgan knows what this means. He still has the nightmares about being lost in the forest. (@Morgan) Everyone inside (Claudia) *The crowd is as hopeless as most crowds, and no-one moves* (Claudia) What are you thinking? * @Morgan bellows "EVERYONE INSIDE" before moving around the crowd towards the trees (Claudia) **There is the sound of sticks scraping over stony ground. It's coming from the South. Claudia starts herding the people. There's haste and fear there now in the people of Sudlachenburg* (Claudia) **The only people still not fleeing are HH and the redhead who are by the table that is nearest the edge of forest that is closest to the schwarzenwald** ** You're now known as HH * @Morgan starts in their direction (HH) **In addition to the sticks noise comes a loud rhythmic noise like an old creaky door being open and closed. The night seems darker. They haven't moved* * @Morgan starts shouting at them to move (HH) **The redhead stands her ground. She is obviously arguing with his best friend as he urges her away* * @Morgan breaks into a run (HH) **HH intercepts him* What's goin' on? (@Morgan) I'll tell you later, get her and get inside * HH shakes his head "She won't come away" * @Morgan carries on towards Molly * HH follows him. The air is so cold when they get to her. She's watching intently into the forest (@Morgan) You need to move, now (HH) **She looks at him seriously* _You_ need to go away * @Morgan scowls * HH looks a bit shocked (@Morgan) you're not from here, you don't know whats coming. Get inside (HH) M: I do know. You should go inside, go and be with your Father and your cousin. (@Morgan) Are you stupid? Deficient of the mind? This thing is... there's no stopping it (HH) M: *her eyes narrow* Go back, Morgan. (@Morgan) HeinzHarold, carry her if you have to, but get her away from here (HH) **She looks at HH* Don't you touch me. Go away, Heinzharold. This is not your figjt (HH) Fight* (@Morgan) There is no fight, for Theus sake. What the hell is wrong with you? * HH does start to walk away (HH) M: For the love of God, will you just go out of the way safely? *The noise gets louder, closer* * @Morgan puts himself right in front of her, slowly advancing on her as if to physically force her backwards (@Morgan) I'm _trying_ to get you to safety (HH) **She simply stands her ground, clearly unintimidated* As am I, you! (@Morgan) Please... move. I've seen whats coming, you've no idea how dangerous it is (HH) **She doesn't move* I know what I am doing, and I have every idea. * @Morgan makes a sound of pure frustration, before turning to face the forest (@Morgan) you're mad, you know that * HH moves now, coming to stand between him and the treeline ** You're now known as Molly (Molly) Molly* * @Morgan performs the same manoeuvre * Molly walks around him, and towards the forest (@Morgan) You're going to get us killed (Molly) Go. Back. Morgan. (@Morgan) And leave you here alone? There's no way that'll happen. (Molly) I am not your concern. Go away! **She turns, shoving him away with her hands on his chest. She looks frustrated, concern rather than hatred there* (@Morgan) You are at my family home, in my fathers land, facing something I've already seen... you damn well are my concern. * Molly tries to shove him again * @Morgan stands firm (Molly) I've seen it too, I can deal with it. I can't deal with it coming here and hurting you. Now, leave! (@Morgan) Absolutely not. I'd never forgive myself (Molly) Yes, you would eventually. Go, it's almost here. (Molly) **HH calls to him* Come on, Morgan, you have got responsibilities, and this is too risky. (@Morgan) What sort of man would I be if I left you here alone? * @Morgan turns to face the forest, closing his eyes and breathing very slowly (Molly) A sensible one. * Molly moves very quietly from beside him, striding towards the treeline * @Morgan opens his eyes, setting off after her (Molly) **the noise is loud, the air so cold and sharp that it cannot be far at all within the trees. HH yells "Morgan! Don't be an idiot. That child needs its Father, take it from an expert!" * Molly spins around, looking cross now. (Molly) You should do what he says. * @Morgan speaks calmly (@Morgan) Thats as maybe, but since you're hellbent on getting killed, the least I can do is make sure your parents have a body to bury (Molly) I will be fine. Go. Go home. (@Morgan) You cant expect that of me, and if you do, then I'm sorry to disappoint you on our first meeting * Molly turns her attention to the forest (Molly) If you won't go, then you come no further than this. * @Morgan says nothing, moving up beside a tree * Molly goes forward, until she's into the treeline where it is still sparce. HH comes to his side. (Molly) *HH looks at Morgan* She's either very brave, very stupid, or very about to die. Maybe all three. I'm not sure she's not strong enough for this. (@Morgan) Trust me, no-one is (Molly) **Between the trees, he can see the darkness come. The scraping noise stops as it stops moving, but the rhythmic creaking continues. HH looks puzzled* It breathes? * @Morgan nods slowly, motioning him to be quiet * Molly stands in front of it, not cowed, not shaking. HH is quiet, but she is not (Molly) **she yells at the grotesque black horror* You don't belong here, and you are not to come here again! (Molly) **HH watches Morgan with raised brows but doesn't speak* * @Morgan shrugs (Molly) **It's huge, and towers over her, and she doesn't even tremble, nor does it move or give an answer** (Molly) *HH shudders, alternating between watching it and watching Morgan* * @Morgan watches it carefully (Molly) **Unlike when he saw it, it is loosely formed, more like a dark tunnel surrounded by shadowy black tendrils, reaching out these appendages that look sometimes like fingers, sometimes like claws or pincers. (Molly) It seems to be sucking the light out of the clearing, absorbing the eerie blue Sudlache glow and orange bonfire light with ease. Still this strange girl stands there calmly, hands by her sides. ** (Molly) **HH whispers* What is she doing?! * @Morgan shrugs, clearly having no idea * Molly stands firm even when it gets to ten feet from her, likely close enough for one of its blood-curdlingly awful appendages to reach her, maybe wrap around her, pull her in. "I am not afraid of you! You are nothing but a nightmare!" (Molly) **HH sighs, shaking his head, and whispers** Shame, I really liked her. I might have married her. * @Morgan scowls at him, whispering (@Morgan) shut... up... (Molly) **HH shrugs "I think it's a bit busy right now to worry about us!* (Molly) **The Schattenmann's tendrils elongate, some must now be close to fifteen feet. It seems to be expanding and deepening* * Molly still stands in front of it, chin tilted up * Molly turns a little, checking on Morgan a moment with a concerned expression, looking to see how scared he looks (Molly) **It is this lapse in judgment that allows a tendril to wrap around her hands quick as a whip. * @Morgan moves quietly to another tree, a little closer * Molly looks surprised rather than scared, and looks up at the Schattenmann with a deep concentration (Molly) "Let. Fucking. Go. Of. Me. Right. Now." she almost growls at it in Avalonian (Molly) **HH moves with Morgan* What did she say? * @Morgan repeats it quietly (Molly) **The tendrils look like they are given an electric shock, suddenly flying off her hands and being reabsorbed. (Molly) HH: Huh. I did not see that coming * @Morgan shakes his head (@Morgan) me either * Molly shakes her hands a moment before dropping them to her sides. She squares her shoulders a little, and she speaks loudly and firmly in what sounds sort-of like Vesten to him (Molly) "Vera farinn, martröð!" (Molly) **There's a loud pop that makes his ears feel unpleasantly under pressure, like being deep under water. The Schattenmann is completely gone. She sinks to the floor. The normal noise and breeze resume.** * @Morgan moves to her * Molly is breathing hard, looking at her hands in her lap (@Morgan) What the hell was that? (Molly) The Schattenmann (@Morgan) I know _that_. I meant what did you do (Molly) Made it go away. **She opens and closes her hands, wincing* (@Morgan) Yes, I see that but... ** You are now disconnected (Software caused connection abort) ------------------------------ Logging started for Blitzed:#7thseaic on Saturday, 24 April 2021 17:34:26 British Summer Time ------------------------------ ** Reconnecting to irc.blitzed.org:6667… -NickServ- Welcome to Blitzed IRC Network, MollyK! Here on Blitzed IRC Network, we provide services to enable the registration of nicknames and channels! For details, type /msg NickServ help and /msg ChanServ help. ** You have joined #7thseaic ** Molly has quit (Ping timeout: 250 seconds) ** You are now disconnected (Ping timeout) ------------------------------ Logging started for Blitzed:#7thseaic on Saturday, 24 April 2021 18:10:24 British Summer Time ------------------------------ ** Reconnecting to irc.blitzed.org:6667… ** Reconnecting to irc.blitzed.org:6667… ** You are now disconnected ** Reconnecting to irc.blitzed.org:6667… ** Reconnecting to irc.blitzed.org:6667… ** Reconnecting to irc.blitzed.org:6667… ** Reconnecting to irc.blitzed.org:6667… ** Reconnecting to irc.blitzed.org:6667… ** Reconnecting to irc.blitzed.org:6667… ** Reconnecting to irc.blitzed.org:6667… ** Reconnecting to irc.blitzed.org:6667… ** Reconnecting to irc.blitzed.org:6667… ** Reconnecting to irc.blitzed.org:6667… ** Reconnecting to irc.blitzed.org:6667… ** Reconnecting to irc.blitzed.org:6667… ** Reconnecting to irc.blitzed.org:6667… ** Reconnecting to irc.blitzed.org:6667… ** Reconnecting to irc.blitzed.org:6667… ** Reconnecting to irc.blitzed.org:6667… ** Reconnecting to irc.blitzed.org:6667… ** Reconnecting to irc.blitzed.org:6667… ** Reconnecting to irc.blitzed.org:6667… ** Reconnecting to irc.blitzed.org:6667… -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 ** timtam.uk.eu.blitzed.org sets mode(s) +nt ** ChanServ sets mode(s) -o MollyK ** You are now disconnected (Ping timeout) ------------------------------ Logging started for Blitzed:#7thseaic on Saturday, 24 April 2021 18:31:05 British Summer Time ------------------------------ ** Reconnecting to irc.blitzed.org:6667… ** Reconnecting to irc.blitzed.org:6667… ** Reconnecting to irc.blitzed.org:6667… ** Reconnecting to irc.blitzed.org:6667… ** Reconnecting to irc.blitzed.org:6667… ** Reconnecting to irc.blitzed.org:6667… ** Reconnecting to irc.blitzed.org:6667… ** Reconnecting to irc.blitzed.org:6667… ** Reconnecting to irc.blitzed.org:6667… ** Reconnecting to irc.blitzed.org:6667… ** Reconnecting to irc.blitzed.org:6667… ** Reconnecting to irc.blitzed.org:6667… ** Reconnecting to irc.blitzed.org:6667… ** Reconnecting to irc.blitzed.org:6667… ** Reconnecting to irc.blitzed.org:6667… ** Reconnecting to irc.blitzed.org:6667… -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 ** timtam.uk.eu.blitzed.org sets mode(s) +nt ** ChanServ sets mode(s) -o MollyK ** You are now disconnected (Software caused connection abort) ------------------------------ Logging started for Blitzed:#7thseaic on Saturday, 24 April 2021 18:58:53 British Summer Time ------------------------------ ** Reconnecting to irc.blitzed.org:6667… ** You are now disconnected ** Reconnecting to irc.blitzed.org:6667… ** You are now disconnected ** Reconnecting to irc.blitzed.org:6667… ** You are now disconnected ** 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 ** cantillon.be.eu.blitzed.org sets mode(s) +nt ** ChanServ sets mode(s) -o MollyK ** You are now disconnected (Software caused connection abort) ------------------------------ Logging started for Blitzed:#7thseaic on Saturday, 24 April 2021 19:14:25 British Summer Time ------------------------------ ** You have joined #7thseaic (@Morgan) how? * Molly turns her hands palm down. He can see the blood dripping onto the ground from them (Molly) It's complicated. (@Morgan) Lets get you to the house and cleaned up * Molly wipes them on the skirt with a wince, then looks at the multitude of cuts there (Molly) "That's not pleasant." (@Morgan) I'm not surprised * Molly stands up, taking a deep breath. She watches his face with a serious expression. (Molly) It won't come back here again. You're safe now. * @Morgan looks at her as if she's completely mad (Molly) **HH comes over too, offering her his arm. She smiles sadly at Morgan before taking it (Molly) I know you don't understand, that's alright. We should get back to the others (@Morgan) We need to get your wounds cleaned and seen to (Molly) **They all walk back into the clearing where people have come back outside. Sasha and Otto watch Morgan with concern* * Molly looks around at the various villagers here, as well as the Koertigs and then Morgan's in-laws before Morgan himself (Molly) It was nice to meet you, Veisgraf Sudlachenburg (@Morgan) You've an interesting take on the word 'nice' * Molly nods, then looks wearily at HH* Could you take me home now, please? (Molly) *He goes. Molly watches the blood still coming from all the cuts (Molly) What will you do now? * @Morgan shrugs (@Morgan) try to think of a way to explain it to them (Molly) Have you considered "Goblins"? *She smiles a little* (@Morgan) I don't think they could handle yet another monster (Molly) *HH comes back a moment later with a white horse, pulling Molly to him and holding her a moment * Molly watches Morgan over HHs shoulder ((expression pls)) * @Morgan watches them, still clearly confused (Molly) **he inclines his head to Morgan before boosting her up into the saddle as she carefully keeps her upturned palms in her lap* (Molly) HH: Good night Morgan. I'll see to her, don't worry * @Morgan nods (@Morgan) be careful (Molly) *HH whispers something to her, and she nods. She gives Morgan a brief smile before they set off at a gallop* (Molly) **Otto comes over and hands him a drink. "Thank Theus Dietlinde wasn't here to see this!" * @Morgan nods, sipping the drink (@Morgan) aye (Molly) Sascha joins them, a little pale. "Any closer to a name yet?" * @Morgan shrugs (@Morgan) I've an idea or two (Molly) **They discuss baby names as a distraction from what they've seen. When Sascha suggests they just call a girl Madchen, meaning "girl" if they can't decide, he wakes* (Molly) *There's a feeling of gentle pressure on his arm, and soft tones* Hey… it's alright... * @Morgan breathes deeply, nodding * Molly is sat on the edge of his side of the bed, rather than being in it beside him. She just continues the very light strokes on his arm (@Morgan) Why are you up? (Molly) Because I made myself wake up. Can I do anything at all to help you right now? (@Morgan) what time is it? (Molly) I'm not sure, but I've heard servants already, so after five I think * @Morgan nods, sighing (@Morgan) what do you mean you woke yourself up? (Molly) You wish it was earlier? * Molly waits for his answer rather than giving one (@Morgan) Just... dreams * Molly nods, sighing gently (Molly) I know, liebling * @Morgan frowns (@Morgan) how? (Molly) I woke myself up to check my hands (@Morgan) You were there? * Molly nods (Molly) Yes (@Morgan) what would you do that for? (Molly) Do what for? (@Morgan) what you did in the dream (Molly) Making it go away? * @Morgan nods (Molly) You told me that was what I did in your normal nightmare about the Schattenmann * @Morgan nods (Molly) I didn't want you developing a new nightmare (@Morgan) You didn't realise when it was * Molly shakes her head (Molly) At first I just thought you were dreaming about a Shadowfayre, so I thought I'd wait to see if there was anything that might predict the future, or be a different path... (@Morgan) I don't recall dreaming about that before * Molly shrugs (Molly) It was a hard day yesterday * @Morgan nods (@Morgan) yes (Molly) I saw Karsten and Alarice * @Morgan nods (Molly) That was odd. I've only seen him in paintings, it was odd to see him in the flesh, so to speak * Molly again strokes his arm gently * @Morgan nods (Molly) Strangely, my hands are not cut, but they are a little sore * @Morgan frowns (@Morgan) that is... strange * Molly nods (Molly) I've soaked them in cold water and put some cream on them (@Morgan) Can you do anything about it? (Molly) Possibly... probably (Molly) It's okay, I'm not badly hurt * @Morgan nods, frowning (Molly) Why are you frowning? (@Morgan) I do not like that even in my dream you end up hurt * Molly shrugs (Molly) I was only wanting to protect you (@Morgan) That makes it worse (Molly) You know I am always going to put myself in a situation if it helps you, regardless of how painful it is to me (@Morgan) That is troublesome (Molly) Tell me you wouldn't do the same. (@Morgan) You know I cannot * Molly nods (Molly) I'm just grateful you don't have to * @Morgan nods * Molly gently squeezes his arm (Molly) I couldn't have told you the truth, about how I did it (@Morgan) in the dream? (Molly) Yes (@Morgan) No... * Molly sighs (Molly) If... if that happens again, what should I do? * @Morgan shrugs (@Morgan) I've no idea (Molly) Should I try to wake you? * @Morgan nods (@Morgan) thats probably the best idea (Molly) Even though I might be able to help your nightmares? (@Morgan) Until we've thought of a way to do it easily, perhaps? (Molly) I don't understand. Do what easily? (@Morgan) Find some way to explain it (Molly) To explain to you in the dream that it's just a dream, and who I am? * @Morgan nods (@Morgan) or how you do what you do * Molly shrugs (Molly) I have no idea how to do that without it causing both of us pain (@Morgan) Me either, yet (Molly) Maybe the Nieblungen will save us (@Morgan) maybe (Molly) I had hoped they could stop all of this before it went too far (@Morgan) Not yet blossom (Molly) Even if it means losing the mental connections. (@Morgan) That isn't an acceptable loss * Molly shrugs (Molly) I'm not sure I agree (@Morgan) It has proven too useful to give it up for some nightmares * Molly frowns slightly (Molly) I suppose so. *she takes a deep breath* I suppose otherwise you'd have no idea about my embarrassing encounter with Federest * @Morgan nods (Molly) You will want to know the full story so that your jealous mind doesn't go into overdrive, I imagine? (@Morgan) I think so, aye (Molly) It's nothing too awful (Molly) I went up to take up the clothes. I knocked on the door, and he answered assuming it was a servant with a sharpened razor, face covered in soap, shirtless, and only wearing a towel around his waist * @Morgan nods (Molly) Certainly less nudity than I saw with Kit or the Laird! * @Morgan nods (@Morgan) indeed (Molly) He has a scar that matches hers * @Morgan nods (@Morgan) Its part of a vested ceremony (Molly) That was what I dreamt of us doing... * @Morgan nods * Molly is quiet a moment before she says (Molly) So, no need to be jealous * @Morgan nods (Molly) But you still are? (@Morgan) Not terribly so * Molly nods, giggling (Molly) Because I didn't see the crucial area? (@Morgan) Well, that would be more to be jealous about, yes (Molly) It might not have been worth being jealous about! (@Morgan) This is true (Molly) Not that jealousy is that rational! * Molly inhales and exhales deeply (Molly) I'm going to get dressed and go downstairs * @Morgan sighs (@Morgan) me too * Molly gives his arm a gentle pat before she gets off the bed (Molly) Given that Edward only realised late last night that they'd need a medic at all, I know they'll have no supplies incase these idiots chop each other to pieces * @Morgan climbs out of bed to get dressed * @Morgan nods (@Morgan) aye, most likely * Molly must have already mostly dressed before she woke him, because all she does is add a corset. This means she took the time to check and tend her hands, dress and do her hair before trying to wake him. * Molly picks up a bag and her boots, briefly kissing his cheek before going to the door "I'll find Edward too, get a message taken to Inga and Heinzharold about preparing Varick for the day. I'll meet you outside soon?" * @Morgan nods (@Morgan) very well my love * Molly goes out, leaving him alone (Molly) ((What's he doing?)) (@Morgan) ((getting dressed)) ** You're now known as Claudia (Claudia) **He finishes up and heads out. He sees Claudia coming up the stairs as he's about to descend. She's bloodied but looks calmer* (Claudia) You still up? You look like hell (@Morgan) Thank you... believe it or not, I slept (Claudia) Badly, by the looks of it (@Morgan) Thank you again (Claudia) Want to give me an update then? (@Morgan) on... (Claudia) Everything that's happened whilst I've been beating the hell out of people (@Morgan) You sure you want to know? * Claudia nods (Claudia) You can tell me while I get cleaned up * Claudia leads the way to her room, pointing him to a chair whilst she grabs some clothes and goes behind the privacy screen * @Morgan flops down into the chair (Claudia) Start at the top. I last saw you when I was leaving the three musketeers in Pottersdams house (Claudia) ((Would he have picked up Edward's flask and handkerchief?)) (@Morgan) ((yes)) (@Morgan) Right... Federest had been persuaded to come clean, as it were, and was coming here. I was going to collect Hannalore (Claudia) Mmhmm * Claudia throws dirty clothes on after another into a pile on the floor. There's a very heavy clank (Claudia) She went without a fuss? * @Morgan shrugs (@Morgan) more or less... it was her choice (Claudia) Pottersdam has a thing for her (@Morgan) I noticed (Claudia) She told me she'd bedded him (@Morgan) They had an arrangement I believe (Claudia) Seemed like he wanted to keep it (@Morgan) I'd say thats a fair assessment (Claudia) Is he the one she cried with? * @Morgan nods (Claudia) Well, as I've said, sex with men is frequently disappointing (@Morgan) I stand by my statement that you've chosen poor examples of men (Claudia) **there's more clanking* (Claudia) For those I even got to choose. (@Morgan) mmmm (Claudia) Go on with the story. I'll tell you what made me go AWOL once you're done. (@Morgan) We brought her back here to see him, and I took Karlsruhe off to a tavern * Claudia chucks a very heavy sounding bag on the floor. It sounds like coins (Claudia) You didnt see what happened then? (@Morgan) No, Molly told me... violence, shouting, sobbing... (Claudia) She get hurt? (@Morgan) She did the hurting (Claudia) I meant your wife (@Morgan) No... it was just trying. She seems to think she's failing to be a good wife * Claudia sticks just her head out (Claudia) Why? (@Morgan) She thinks she makes things complicated when she's trying to make things simpler. She closes herself off from me when things bother her (Claudia) Is that not what women do? Complicate shit and then hide themselves? (@Morgan) I've noticed that tendancy (Claudia) How does that connect to what happened last night? * Claudia goes behind the screen, water being poured (@Morgan) I suppose she was involved in a situation to give Hannalore what Karlsruhe and I could never have... (Claudia) Ah. * Claudia sloshes around with water (Claudia) Not sure how much advice I can give there. You spoken to Edward about it? (@Morgan) Not yet, no. It was late and he'd gone to bed and I was concentrating on helping her through it * Claudia sighs (Claudia) Much as I find him arrogant and annoying, he does seem to have a way with women, and he and Molly seemed close in Atemlos * @Morgan nods (Claudia) She better this morning? (@Morgan) Somewhat (Claudia) Good. I'd help if I could. * Claudia takes a shirt off the top (Claudia) So Hannalore beat him, Molly got upset... then what? (@Morgan) Hannalore did some crying, they did some bonding I suppose... (Claudia) You suppose? (@Morgan) I wasn't here (Claudia) Ahh, she didn't tell you? (@Morgan) They've ended up deciding to leave Eisen for Vesten, she's got some land there now (Claudia) The grandparents Will? (Claudia) ((Yes, 4 years ago, incase you're scrolling back lol)) * @Morgan nods (Claudia) That was still being argued over when she and I... were around each other (@Morgan) oh? (Claudia) Her cousin objected. It got drawn out in court. Guess it went in her favour after I'd left * @Morgan nods (@Morgan) I guess so (Claudia) She's going soon? (@Morgan) Today * Claudia pauses (Claudia) Algight * Claudia takes down trousers (Claudia) Where is she now? (@Morgan) She went home last night (Claudia) Alright. (Claudia) What then? (@Morgan) She went home, he went back to his ship (Claudia) Karlsruhe go with him? * @Morgan nods (Claudia) Then you obviously got little sleep * Claudia comes out, fastening a leather waistcoat * @Morgan shrugs (@Morgan) I've had worse nights (Claudia) You didn't dream about Molly and Edward ending up in bed then? (@Morgan) not this time, no * Claudia straps on her swordbrkt (Claudia) Probably best. Be hard to see them together * @Morgan nods * Claudia starts frowning (@Morgan) What? (Claudia) I'm thinking whether to go and see Hannalore before she leaves, but... * Claudia looks at him (Claudia) Sounds harsh, but as much as I want her to be happy, I don't know I want to see her happy because of him * @Morgan nods (@Morgan) That is understandable (Claudia) I wasn't even feeling particularly jealous until she decided to confide in me * Claudia loads up the sword belt * @Morgan watches her (Claudia) Sometimes it's better if they do just close themselves off! (@Morgan) Not for themselves... (Claudia) Why tell me now, when she knew loverboy was swanning back onto the scene, rather than just keep her mouth shut? (@Morgan) Tell you _what_? (Claudia) She told me that she'd been so jealous because she was developing proper feelings for me and was scared and felt guilty. It's why she ended it. (@Morgan) Dangled what you can no longer have in front of you... * @Morgan scowls * Claudia nods a little (Claudia) Now that he's back, she can admit there was something special there for her. Just... Why even fucking tell me, you know? As if it makes it any better now that she has what she really wanted and what was holding her back. * @Morgan nods (@Morgan) selfish (Claudia) You'd have been proud of me for not losing my shit there and then. * @Morgan blinks, looking at her (@Morgan) I am. (Claudia) Very good job that you came to Potts rather than me returning here. I can't say it would have gone well for him in that moment. (@Morgan) no? (Claudia) Goid chance I'd have lost my shit then. I don't begrudge him for loving her. I begrudge him for screwing up her life and making me collateral damage in their ridiculous romance. * @Morgan nods (@Morgan) I cant say I blame you * Claudia nods (Claudia) I pride myself on not caring enough to get hurt. But, fuck, Morgan, she did a real number on me last night. *she is clearly confiding in him despite difficulty in doing so* * @Morgan nods sadly (Claudia) I don't want her leaving thinking I hate her, because I don't. But I don't think I can see them together just yet (@Morgan) Would you like me to tell her? (Claudia) If you would, please. Tell her I wish her well * Claudia smiles slightly (Claudia) It's not totally a lie (@Morgan) For you, of course I will (Claudia) Thank you. * Claudia visibly shakes it off (Claudia) You ever been hit in the nuts with a bag of coins? (@Morgan) coins, no (Claudia) What then? (@Morgan) HeinzHarold got me with a bag of apples once * Claudia laughs (Claudia) Oh I wish I'd seen that * Claudia picks up the bag from the floor, chucking it to him * @Morgan makes a point of catching it (Claudia) *It's heavy, at least a couple of hundred guilders (@Morgan) Impressive. You find it at the bottom of a rainbow? (Claudia) Boxing. Made a decent amount of money doing something to willing participants that I would have found someone unwilling to do it to otherwise. (@Morgan) In a tavern? * Claudia nods (Claudia) Men will bet a fortune on themselves against a woman. Drunk men doubly so. (@Morgan) I was in the other room (Claudia) Huh! Could have joined me, I'd have knocked you out for ten guilders (@Morgan) You cant beat me with a sword, what makes you think you could with your fists? (Claudia) In a few days when I'm less bruised we can check that (@Morgan) I don't see the point of boxing * Claudia puts her boots back on (Claudia) You have to be the type that enjoys the violence * @Morgan shrugs (@Morgan) who's to say I dont * Claudia smiles slightly (Claudia) You're too gentle for that * @Morgan shrugs (@Morgan) I used to be (Claudia) You used to be soft, not gentle, there's a difference * @Morgan frowns (@Morgan) I'm not sure I agree * Claudia shrugs (Claudia) Noones asking you to. (Claudia) I think Molly should have hand to hand combat training soon (@Morgan) No hang on, I don't think I see the difference (Claudia) Between what? (@Morgan) soft and gentle (Claudia) You were softer, you thought well of every one and violence was avoided where possible because it wasn't what you wanted. Now you're gentle, you have the capacity to be very violent, and it's be easy to choose it, but you choose not to * @Morgan nods slowly (@Morgan) Hand to hand training... (Claudia) Don't want to upset you, but there were times where my melee skills did nothing tondegend me because I wasn't instead of a weapon. Get Molly trained so that you and she know that she can defend herself enough if she ever needs to (Claudia) To defend me* (@Morgan) ((because I wasn't instead of a weapon?)) (Claudia) In reach* * @Morgan nods (Claudia) ((Fucking keyboard)) (@Morgan) very well (Claudia) You know there will be scrapes and bruises to start with? (@Morgan) Best explain it to her as well * Claudia nods (Claudia) Once we're back on the river, I'll get on it. I want to show you her melee progress too * @Morgan nods (@Morgan) good (Claudia) I think soon it'll be fine for her to be sparring with different partners too * @Morgan nods * Claudia chucks her dirty clothes in a bag (Claudia) What's got to be done before we go back to the ship? (Claudia) ((He hasn't told her about Jarvie's preg or wedding)) (@Morgan) Duel, get Jarvie married... I think thats it (Claudia) Get who what?! (@Morgan) Jarvie, my cousin... you remember her... (Claudia) Yes (Claudia) Why? (@Morgan) In confidence... (Claudia) Fucks sake Morgan. You don't need to say that (@Morgan) sorry... its... big. You know Holzheim (Claudia) Vaguely (@Morgan) He can't have children... except it turns out he can in one instance... (Claudia) Unlucky * @Morgan shrugs (@Morgan) he's thrilled. They're getting married. I've got the license in my pocket (Claudia) How does she feel about it? (@Morgan) She's scared I think. (Claudia) Sounds reasonable to me. Can't she not go through with it? (@Morgan) She's far enough along that it wouldn't just be like a monthly event... it'd be more like giving birth anyway (Claudia) But no child to raise, and No husband to endure (@Morgan) They're fairly well matched... he wants to raise the child anyway, and they like eachother enough for it to work * Claudia shrugs (Claudia) Good luck to them. She told me at your wedding thr Koertig women are born much less broody than Koertig men (@Morgan) I'm inclined to think she's right... * Claudia smiles slightly (Claudia) I reckon so (Claudia) What do you want me doing this morning? (@Morgan) Want to join us at the most pointless duel in Theah? (Claudia) Depends who is going to be there * @Morgan shrugs (Claudia) Think I'll skip it, rather than seeing two men sulking over not having Hannalore's affections thanks! * @Morgan nods (@Morgan) probably just as well * Claudia nods (Claudia) You taking Molly? (@Morgan) She's been asked to medic for them (@Morgan) just in case either of them actually manages to land a blow * Claudia nods (Claudia) Don't discount Rheinpfalz, he was trained by the best (@Morgan) as it was put to me, its just a cock waving contest. Much as Id rather not see Pottersdam injured, he could've avoided it * Claudia laughs (Claudia) Noblemen are, for the most part, idiots * @Morgan shrugs (@Morgan) They're not idiots... they're just too busy being impressed by their own perceived importance (Claudia) Bit idiotic (@Morgan) absolutely (Claudia) You taking Heinzharold? (@Morgan) No, he'll have to keep Varick occupied for the time being * Claudia nods (Claudia) Have you considered talking to Inga about the Molly issue? (@Morgan) I wouldn't have said we're that close (Claudia) Risky anyway. There's not much chance of doing it without Inga running back to Molly saying you were prying (@Morgan) I don't think she'd say that (Claudia) Never underestimate the things that female best friends will tell each other. Within weeks I'd expect your wife to know almost as much about Heinzharold as Inga does. (@Morgan) No, I meant she wouldn't say I was prying... I'm sure she'd see I'm just trying to get help * Claudia shrugs (Claudia) I just wouldn't expect to get answers or have it kept quiet, that's all * @Morgan nods (@Morgan) noted (Claudia) I can keep an eye on Molly if you want, but I don't see her confiding in me about any of it really (@Morgan) No, I agree she's most likely to talk to Inga (Claudia) Did she Inga with her last night? (Claudia) Have* * @Morgan nods (Claudia) Good. Sounds like her dealing with that pair alone would have been a bad idea (@Morgan) She had Edward, he was a great support apparently * Claudia nods (Claudia) Doesn't really surprise me (@Morgan) no? (Claudia) They spent a lot of time together in Atemlos, and he was a big help when she saw your note on the way to Zweibrucke saying you were struggling * @Morgan nods (Claudia) You could ask Heinzharold to get out of Inga anything he can and report back, but I don't actually know if he'd do it (@Morgan) I don't think I'd want to put him in that position (Claudia) Would you do it for him if it was the other way around? (@Morgan) I'd try but it wouldn't be like some recon mission * Claudia smiles (Claudia) I'm starting to think War is better than all this love and feelings horseshit (@Morgan) Easier... not sure about better * Claudia shrugs (Claudia) Want me to help Jarvie ruin her life this morning? * @Morgan nods (Claudia) Bloody weddings. Can't escape the damned things. * @Morgan shrugs (@Morgan) it'll be a quiet affair... none of the high society bullshit, as Jarvie puts it * Claudia nods (Claudia) Varick going? (@Morgan) I don't know * Claudia smirks (Claudia) You walking her down the aisle? (@Morgan) I doubt it (Claudia) Your Father would want to if he was here * @Morgan nods (@Morgan) he's going to go ape * Claudia laughs (Claudia) You're sending Edward back to deal with the fallout ? (@Morgan) I tried to tell him it to say it was my doing... but he's determined to stand together * Claudia nods (Claudia) Good for him * @Morgan looks intrigued (@Morgan) why? (Claudia) It's what siblings should do (Claudia) How long will you be watching the cocks? * @Morgan shrugs (@Morgan) not long I hope. I've got an appointment (Claudia) Busy day. You glad to be going again? * @Morgan nods slowly (@Morgan) Mostly, aye (Claudia) Thanks, Morgan * @Morgan looks confused (Claudia) Letting me go on about her without all the sympathy bullshit (@Morgan) I have compassion, not sympathy * Claudia nods (Claudia) I'm glad (Claudia) Right, where's the coffee? I can't be expected to help with a wedding without it, and you can't be expected to go to a cock-measuring contest without it either (@Morgan) agreed * Claudia leads the way. There's a distinct sound of HH chuckling and Inga giggling in a way that speaks of marital intimacy as they pass the door. Claudia looks to Morgan with an eye roll, then a grin* Get ready to run. * @Morgan thumps on the door three times before setting off at a run * Claudia sprints along with him, down the hall and down the stairs, sniggering when she gets to the bottom "He'll get you back for that" (@Morgan) I seem to recall it being your idea * Claudia shakes her head "You did the banging". She spots Molly stood by the front door checking her hair in the mirror. Molly watches Morgan in the reflection with a raised eyebrow. Claudia pats his arm, going off towards the kitchen. ** You are now disconnected