------------------------------ Logging started for 192.168.1.82:#7thsea on Wednesday, 30 June 2021 16:58:13 British Summer Time ------------------------------ ** You have joined #7thsea ** You are now disconnected ------------------------------ Logging started for 192.168.1.82:#7thsea on Wednesday, 30 June 2021 20:52:56 British Summer Time ------------------------------ ** You have joined #7thsea ** Morgan has joined #7thsea (Molly) **Molly comes out, glass of what looks to be Drambuie in her hand. She looks fairly relaxed** (Molly) I heard the door… (Morgan) closing? (Molly) No, opening (Morgan) ah (Molly) Is Heinzharold alright? * Morgan nods (Morgan) He's more worried about danger to you * Molly nods (Molly) He needn't. (Morgan) he's worried someone will find out and try to have you killed... he doesn't want to have to dig another grave for my wife * Molly comes to sit on the couch in the middle of the room. She nods. * Molly then frowns (Molly) Oh... (Morgan) The dream I had the other night... he'd pulled them from the building, covered them in sheets. Its what actually happened * Molly shakes her head sadly (Molly) Oh liebling, I'm sorry (Morgan) It is what it is * Molly downs the Drambuie before going back to the shelf and putting Cherry brandy in (Molly) I... I suppose I hadn't thought about the practicalities... poor Heinzharold (Morgan) He's still got all the things the assassin had on him. He wanted to investigate but got sidetracked by... well, you * Molly sighs (Molly) Oh dear. Is it possible that there would be a trail? (Morgan) Maybe. I'll just have to put that to bed * Molly sips the brandy, looking out of the window (Molly) There's still one seed left... * Morgan shakes his head (Morgan) I'll deal with it... besides, I have more seeds in the box * Molly nods slightly. She downs this glass too before pouring more. (Molly) What did she wish to speak to you about? I head her laugh (Molly) Heard* (Morgan) him... you... (Molly) You wont elaborate? * Molly sits back down, watching hjm (Molly) Him* (Morgan) Just that he's spooked and scared for me * Molly nods (Molly) I suppose I can understand that (Morgan) He'll be alright * Molly nods (Molly) I'm sure. *she sighs* I only have twenty minutes until I need to contact Innesbruck *she watches him intently* * Morgan nods (Molly) It is alright if everything with Heinzharold has dampened your ardour… * Morgan sighs (Morgan) I'm afraid so (Molly) Mine is back to its normal simmer rather than boiling over as it was when we first came back here. *she smiles playfully with a shrug* * Morgan nods (Morgan) on a less stressful day, I'll let you try Maelwys' drink * Molly smiles (Molly) On a less stressful day, I'd sit on your lap and give you a full accounting of what you missed * Morgan nods (Molly) Do you think perhaps Maelwys was just teasing you? (Morgan) I don't think so, no * Molly smiles, blushing (Molly) I'm not sure there would be much difference between that and how I normally am * Morgan chuckles (Morgan) maybe (Molly) You are curious though? (Morgan) I am rather (Molly) Another night... whenever we don't have so many cares and burdens **it sounds lighthearted, but her eyes arent** (Morgan) I shouldn't imagine it'll be as stressful as this... (Molly) When? (Morgan) tomorrow, the day after... * Molly shrugs (Molly) I'd rather have cares and burdens but be with you than not have them and be alone * Morgan nods (Molly) Are you staying to speak to my Father, or do you need to be off outside singing with the men, or up the rigging? * Morgan feigns being hurt (Morgan) whats wrong with hanging from the rigging? (Molly) I was simply presenting an option, my love. When I am burdened, I often need to escape. (Morgan) No, I'll stay... I want hear what your father found (Molly) Eternal rest in whatever passes for jaws of the Schattenmann, if stupidity were given its just reward... * Morgan frowns (Morgan) stop it (Molly) I'm sorry, liebling (Molly) I am cross with him, and frustrated because I was not there to stop him (Morgan) I don't think he'd have listened even if you were there (Molly) No... but I could have stopped him, if I had had to... * Molly watches him solemnly * Morgan shakes his head (Morgan) thats not where we were, there is little point fretting at it * Molly nods, sighing. She sips her drink (Molly) Liebes herz? (Morgan) yes? (Molly) Was Inga flirting with you? (Morgan) I'm sorry? (Molly) It's just... she has a particular laugh that she does when she is talking about things that are quite rude. (Morgan) She was telling me about HeinzHarold dreaming about me... then she blushed and laughed and said I should ask you about it (Molly) Oh! Okay, that's good (Morgan) She is as besotted with her husband as I am with you. You needn't worry * Molly blinks rapidly (Molly) I'm... not sure you have described it as besotted before... (Morgan) Fairly sure I have... * Molly thinks hard (Molly) I'm fairly sure you haven't... but I love hearing it now (Morgan) I thought it fairly obvious * Molly 's micro-expression shows pain, but the rest of her expression is a gentle smile (Morgan) I guess not (Molly) We all like to hear it anyway, dont we? * Morgan nos (Morgan) aye (Molly) Come, sit with me, please? * Morgan comes over and sits down (Molly) I'll tell you about Heinzharold and his dream before we set up *she smiles* * Morgan nods (Molly) It was when they were at Jarvies before we got there. It was the middle of the night, and he'd accidentally just kicked her in his sleep, so she was awake. Then he rolled over, started squeezing her breasts, and said something about "those apples" being his * Molly giggles * Morgan laughs (Morgan) I'm fairly sure that was the first thing he ever said to me (Molly) That is very sweet, liebling (Molly) Oh, that reminds me. Heinzharold had made some bargain with Inga to get her to try to persuade me to say something to you when we were... intimate. (Morgan) oh? (Molly) He wanted me to interrupt you with the words "Not today, little rabbit" * Molly giggles * Morgan laughs (Morgan) He asked her to tease me, as well (Morgan) I think I'll hang him from the yard arm * Molly nods (Molly) I told her to tell him that if he's so bad at it that Inga would even be able to consider interrupting like that, he's a disappointment to the prowess of the men of the Sudlache * Morgan snorts laughing * Molly smiles warmly, her eyes crinkling at the corners (Molly) I hope that pleases you * Morgan nods (Morgan) of course * Molly finishes her drink (Molly) I dont tell Inga all these things about you though (Morgan) no? * Molly shakes her head (Molly) I am careful. I know you do not like it * Morgan nods (Morgan) I appreciate that (Molly) Besides, who would believe me if I said you made love to me in the Eisenfurst's stable?! *she kisses his cheek before rapidly moving out of arms reach* (Morgan) Edward... * Molly shakes her head (Molly) I dont think he would, because it's the Eisenfurst, and noone would be that disrespectful (Morgan) You don't recall him encountering us as we left the stable? (Molly) I do, but I do not think he would put two and two together (Morgan) the smirk on his face suggested otherwise * Molly blushes, smiling (Molly) Well, I am not ashamed of the passion we have (Morgan) Nor I (Molly) I am truly glad to hear that * Molly glances at the clock (Molly) It's time * Morgan nods (Molly) **Molly gets the mirror set up in the hopes of communicating across the many hundreds of miles. David appears in the wet mirror with Jacques and Walder. Molly exhales with relief. (Molly) **Then she looks cross, speaking rapid, clipped Avalonian. It appears that her accent when cross becomes even more Eisen, and David is finding it hard to stay straight-faced* Papa! Do you heve any idea how scaredt I heve been! It vas dane-cherous to go out there((they-uh)) alone!** (Molly) D: *he smiles* I like your accent, it's very sweet * Molly glances at Morgan (Morgan) well, he's not wrong * Molly looks at David unimpressed. "I am tserious! Don't do that again!" * Molly looks to Jacques and Walder, going back to Eisen "I hope you are both well. I'd like to catch up with you shortly, but could you please give me a few minutes with my Father?" They do so. Once the room is cleared, David says "Where are you now?" (Morgan) my island * Molly glances at Morgan, smiling [koertig kingdom] * Morgan sips his blonkers (Molly) D: Lundy? You arrived already then. How was the wedding? **they spend a minute talking about it** (Molly) Did the service go well, and were all our instructions followed? (Molly) *David nods* It did. The church was full. Adalbrecht and Verity were there, but Edward is still in Freiburg. Verity was disappointed about that. But it was very touching, and brought the community together. Adalbrecht is now talking about erecting a permanent memorial in the village square. Would you have me make him hold off until he's spoken to you about it? *he looks at Morgan* * Morgan nods (Morgan) aye (Molly) D: *he nods* what are you doing on the island? (Morgan) surveying mostly. Trying to decide what to do with it (Molly) D: Arable, cattle? Buildings? (Morgan) Orchard, sheep, some (Molly) D: You want Tom Jeffries. He's the best one for assessing land and holdings for sale. Lives in Richmond Street in Tawstock. He owes me a favour. * Morgan nods (Morgan) I'll look him up (Molly) D: How many sheep? (Morgan) thirty six (Molly) ((4 rams, 6 lambs, 26 ewes)) (Molly) D: what balance? (Morgan) fairly good, all have four legs... * Molly giggles (Molly) He means how many rams and ewes (Morgan) twenty six ewes, four rams, six lambs (Molly) D: *he frowns* very late for lambs. What the hell is the farmer thinking? (Morgan) There isn't one as far as I can see (Molly) D: They're unattended? * Morgan nods (Morgan) there's no-one here (Molly) *he shakes his head in disgust* what condition are they in? (Morgan) They need a damn good haircut (Molly) Get Bobbo over at Green Acre. He does mine, he won't overcharge you if you tell him you're my son-in-law * Molly smiles at Morgan a moment * Morgan nods slightly (Molly) D: Check for blue tongue, fly strike and drop foot. Separate the rams before they cover the ewes and start fighting. If you're culling start with rams then ewes, leave the lambs til last (Morgan) p/me nods again (Molly) D: *he looks at Morgan* Have you ever raised sheep before? (Morgan) No (Molly) D: Have you ever tried to haul water in a bucket with a hole in the bottom? (Morgan) I have, actually (Molly) D: That's what trying to keep a flock of sheep alive is like (Morgan) wonderful (Molly) D: *he nods* cows, chickens? (Morgan) Not that I've seen, but I've not gotten far (Molly) D: They dont want to die so much, they're easier for beginners (Morgan) Sound like wonderful creatures (Molly) D: Sheep will die on you just for looking at them some days. * Molly giggles, nodding (Morgan) probably didn't appreciate me barging some of them out the way then (Molly) D: You might have one or two keeled over in the morning then. Bloody things. Get James or Peter up there if you need them * Morgan nods (Molly) D: I'll come back to Innesbruck on Saturday incase you have any more questions. I suppose you want to know about this house then? ** You're now known as David (Morgan) Aye (David) It wasn't hard to find with the maps. It's about five miles or so in (David) I had to break in. The waterwheel is still running. I expected it to be a bit creepy, but it wasnt. It looks like it was abandoned decades ago, probably 1619 from what I can piece together, consistent with the information from the publisher and the bank * David nods a little, looking to see if Morgan has questions (Morgan) Sounds about right then (David) A man's clothing from around fifty years ago was left there, not much. It wasn't cleared out, but was like a temporary residence he intended to come back to. It's well preserved. Your mother is working on unpicking a patch that's been very well sewn over what could be a family Crest on a cloak. (Morgan) That might help (David) She was going to take it to Sascha this morning because Sascha has a better hand for needlework, and she expects it'll need some reconstruction. (Morgan) thats a good idea * David leans down, picking up a leather bound book, around 12 inches square "I brought this back too. There was some measuring things and science equipment, but it didn't look worth carrying" (Morgan) whats in it? (David) Numbers, mostly, that dont make any sense. Some drawings. (Morgan) of? * David opens the crinkly pages. The first is the Schattenmann. It's almost like seeing it for the first time all over again, but the moment he sees the picture, the words "blue ribbons" come immediately to mind. (David) **Molly inhales sharply, watching Morgan* * Morgan shudders (David) "There's several pages of this" (David) The day it was sketched was overcast. The drawer can have been no more than twelve feet from it, and it is hideously detailed. It seems to have six clear appendages, two with claws like a squirrel, two with crab pincers, and two with cloven hooves. (David) But its more hairy, and a matt black than it was when Morgan saw it, and more corporeal than in the dream of it attending the shadowfayre. It doesn't look like it will strike, or attack. (Morgan) I hate that thing * David looks at it "Very strange looking" (David) M: Papa, is there anything in there that isn't the Schattenmann? * David flicks several pages along. Eckname seems to have liked sketching this creature of nightmares. (David) [Are you alright?] * Morgan nods ever so slightly (Morgan) How the hell did he get that close without it attacking? * David shrugs "I don't know" (David) M: **she looks at Morgan** I assumed it could only come out at night (Morgan) and who exactly is going to tell it that? (David) M: *she frowns* true * David opens the next page. The next series of pictures is of Nieblungen. Molly says "Huh!" (David) **They seem to show the Nieblungen having been watching the house. (Morgan) interesting... * David nods "It gets more interesting too" (Morgan) oh? (David) **There's a page of sketches of a small run-down outbuilding. The trees and bushes around it look mostly dead, the paint peeling, some of the wood looking warped. (David) M: *she frowns* It's a building? * David smiles "Patience, little Moll." (David) **He flicks the page. In the next picture is something that Morgan has seen before. The room is not large, maybe eight by eight feet. It is impeccably clean, the light low. In the centre stands a candle stand, about four and a half feet high. What rests (or perhaps floats) upon the top is what appears to be a bubble, dark grey in colour, filled with a swirling reddish liquid. (David) It looks organic, It bears no markings, no joins, no tool marks. It looks organic rather than man made. The 'shell' of the bubble is slightly lined, almost like layers of rock, striations of dark and light grey on it's surface. (David) **It is identical to the one he found in the summerhouse that started his fire magic, Alarice's warping magic, and Varick's ability to communicate with animals. * David shakes her head "oh no…" * Morgan frowns * David nods (David) This is the odd thing. I went looking for this building. It looks newer now than it did fifty years ago, but there's no signs that it's been altered or mended. **This is what happened with the summerhouse too once the bubble had popped* * Morgan nods (Morgan) that makes a certain sense (David) **Molly stays quiet** (David) **he flicks the page. On the next page, theres notes. It says "Start 20th March 1619. Darkened veins. Nausea. Loss of consciousness. Feeling of vitality. Improvement of knee pain. No further symptoms. 24th visited Sudlachenburg again, spoke to the new sheriff Grunhelm, no gossip about people experiencing similar, no local legends about a ball of red liquid. Ask Nieblungen, if I can catch them. " * Morgan nods (David) went to see Grunhelm as soon as I got back to Sudlachenburg last night. He could barely remember being asked this, but we pieced it together. Eckname was posing as a farmhand looking for work when he was asking the locals all about the Schattenmann. He remembers him being blonde, quite handsome, having very good teeth for a farmhand. Faked a Fischler accent, but he sounded more north Posen to Grunhelm, maybe Anhalt or Jöhstadt. It was fifteen years before the War, so accents were less mixed then. (David) **Molly stays quiet again** (Morgan) anything else? * David shakes his head "I could ask anyone who was over ten years old who lived in Sudlachenburg at the time about him, but there's only four people other than Grunhelm." * Morgan nods (Morgan) You spoken to him? (David) [23:17] (David) went to see Grunhelm as soon as I got back to Sudlachenburg last night. He could barely remember being asked this, but we pieced it together. Eckname was posing as a farmhand looking for work when he was asking the locals all about the Schattenmann. He remembers him being blonde, quite handsome, having very good teeth for a farmhand. Faked a Fischler accent, but he sounded more north Posen to Grunhelm, maybe Anhalt or Jöhstadt. It was fifteen years before the War, so accents were less mixed then. (David) I went to see Grunhelm as soon as I got back to Sudlachenburg last night. He could barely remember being asked this, but we pieced it together. Eckname was posing as a farmhand looking for work when he was asking the locals all about the Schattenmann. He remembers him being blonde, quite handsome, having very good teeth for a farmhand. (David) Faked a Fischler accent, but he sounded more north Posen to Grunhelm, maybe Anhalt or Jöhstadt. It was fifteen years before the War, so accents were less mixed then. * Morgan nods (Morgan) I see (David) What do you want me to tell Adalbrecht? He doesn't know I went * Morgan takes a deep breath (Morgan) I'm not sure... possibly nothing for now * David nods (David) I'll ask you again on Saturday, and say nothing til then * David looks almost haunted (David) "Father, I need you to see Grunhelm and the others. I need to know if there is any chance that Eckname could be foreign, or if there were any foreigners in the area at the time." (David) **Molly* * David nods "I'll ask. Anything in particular?" Molly shrugs ::evasive:: "no" * David looks to Morgan "Do you want this book sent on to you?" * Morgan nods (Morgan) yes (David) I'll send it the Hockridge family estate then (David) **Molly gets up, going in to the other room a moment* * David , quietly: Is Molly alright? * Morgan nods (Morgan) This sort of thing doesn't sit well with us * David nods (David) Anything else you want to ask? I can hear Jacques yawning, and I know he likes to talk to her before we go (Morgan) No, not for the minute * David nods as Molly walks back in. She hands Morgan blokners and takes her seat with her cherry brandy. Very soon she's talking and laughing with Walder and Jacques, and not much after that they say goodbye, severing the link. She dries the mirror with the cloth before downing the brandy again. ** Morgan has quit (Ping Timeout) ** You are now disconnected ------------------------------ Logging started for 192.168.1.82:#7thsea on Thursday, 1 July 2021 10:05:42 British Summer Time ------------------------------ ** You have joined #7thsea (Morgan) well... * Molly picks up her shawl, wrapping it around her "that was a lot to take in" * Morgan nods * Molly sits in the edge of the bed, quiet (Morgan) whats on your mind? (Molly) I'm trying to make sense of it. Eckname, the Schattenmann, the Nieblungen, the ball of magic, all at the same time at the same house. * Morgan nods (Morgan) what about the foreigners you were asking about? * Molly pulls the shawl tighter and sighs "Its complicated, and connected to my nightmare. It's probably unconnected" (Morgan) but you're not going to tell me... * Molly shrugs, looking at the floorboards "I have no choice now. In the morning, I will write it down, and you can read it" * Morgan nods (Morgan) very well (Molly) Feels cold, don't you think? (Molly) **its no colder than usual** (Morgan) No, not really (Molly) I'm cold * Morgan sits beside her, wrapping his arm around her * Molly leans into him, sighing (Molly) I dont know what we do now * Morgan shrugs (Morgan) without knowing what the possibilities are, I can't help with that (Molly) Who is Eckname? What happened to him? Why didn't the Schattenmann attack him? What do the Nieblungen know? And why the hell was there another ball? (Morgan) I wonder if they ever leave Eisen (Molly) I am not sure. Maybe? Maybe they can't? * Morgan shrugs (Morgan) it'd be useful * Molly nods (Molly) They might have answers. Not that they would give them if they didn't wish to. * Morgan nods (Morgan) indeed * Molly glances up at him "Are _you_ alright?" (Morgan) more or less * Molly nods slowly (Molly) You are more concerned about Heinzharold than Eckname? (Morgan) Not as much as I was * Molly nods (Molly) You did not know? (Morgan) know what? (Molly) About what he did at the cottage? (Morgan) No... I did not * Molly nods again (Morgan) He stayed all night... when I didn't return he pulled them out... wouldn't let anyone go near them, not even her parents * Molly nods thoughtfully (Molly) That's good of him * Morgan nods (Morgan) dug the graves and buried them himself... wanted me to know he'd done right by them * Molly nods (Molly) Does that bring you any peace, that they were treated with love? * Morgan nods (Molly) Good, I am glad. *she's quiet a moment* Would you have let him go off as you did? (Morgan) as I've tried to explain to Inga... its not that simple (Molly) Why isn't it? You would only have known what he knew. Would you not have tried to track him down, keep him safe? * Morgan sighs (Morgan) I suppose (Molly) Sometimes I think we want to do the right thing for someone, but when it comes to it we can't help ourselves from following our own needs * Morgan nods slowly (Molly) Liebes herz? (Morgan) yes? (Molly) Would you take me to the ballroom and dance with me? (Morgan) If you wish * Molly nods "The Allemande á Dieu, like in your dream, please" * Morgan nods, standing up (Morgan) come along then * Molly stands up, smiling (Molly) Thank you, you are so generous (Morgan) Not really (Molly) You are doing this for me just because I wish it. That is generous (Morgan) You don't think I'm seeing it as an excuse to hold you close? * Molly blushes, smiling (Molly) You need no excuse, hold me close whenever you wish * Molly leads the way. The ballroom is empty, the only light the two lanterns they brought from their rooms. She stands in the middle, shawl put aside, and watches him with a smile that reveals how utterly smitten she is with him (Molly) *softly* You'll show me what to do? * Morgan nods, finishing his blokners and coming to her (Morgan) its very simple (Molly) It's a normal waltz step, but a little closer? (Morgan) more or less... * Molly nods, smiling (Molly) I'm ready. Oh, but we have no music! (Morgan) No... (Molly) We'll just have to figure it out as we go along, I suppose *she smiles* * Morgan nods (Morgan) aye * Molly curtsies deeply to him "¥Your Grace¥" * Morgan bows (Morgan) Your grace * Molly looks at him with a smile that is both amused and adoring. She moves to take her position, giving a traditional waltz distance * Morgan places his hands on her waist, pulling her close (Morgan) like this my love * Molly makes a little fond, sentimental sigh (Molly) Yes, liebling (Molly) **The soft slow waltz music from his dream comes back to him* * Morgan hums it * Molly smiles, just letting him lead the dance, moving smoothly with him. He can sense some of the tension leaving her (Molly) **The flickering lantern light works well, its intimate and sweet, and so much better than being on show at court. About half way through, she looks at him and says (Molly) Liebes herz? (Morgan) mmmm? (Molly) If this was the last night we had together, I would still think myself the luckiest girl in the world to be in your arms * Morgan frowns (Morgan) do I need to stay up tonight? * Molly shakes her head (Molly) No liebling, you do not. * Morgan nods * Molly rests her cheek to his chest (Molly) I want to be right here, forever * Morgan nods * Molly doesn't see it (Morgan) I can certainly think of worse places to be * Molly nods (Molly) Yes (Molly) **he gets to the end of the tune* (Molly) ((Restarts, hums something similar, or stops?)) * Morgan hums something similar * Molly continues dancing for as long as he continues leading her * Morgan stops eventually * Molly smiles at him (Molly) Thank you, my love * Morgan inclines his head * Molly goes on her tiptoes, giving him a brief, almost chaste kiss on the lips * Morgan blushes * Molly smiles (Molly) You're blushing, my love * Morgan nods (Morgan) I know (Molly) It's very sweet *her smile is gentle, fond* (Morgan) its often said that I am indeed a sweet sort of person * Molly nods (Molly) You are. Despite what Heinzharold caught us doing, it is a simple kiss on the dancefloor that makes you flush * Morgan nods (Molly) It's... charming. It's touching. * Morgan nods (Morgan) I'm glad you approve (Molly) I do, liebling. I approve of _you_, in all aspects of yourself (Morgan) Do you think perhaps you idolise me a bit much? * Molly frowns, looking serious (Molly) Do you dislike it? (Morgan) I worry I do not deserve it (Molly) You do not have to "deserve" it, because I give it freely (Morgan) I don't know that I live up to your view of me (Molly) I am happy with you, I don't ask perfection, just your love (Morgan) you have that and always shall * Molly smiles a little (Molly) I am glad you feel that * Molly gently squeezes him to her a moment "I think, my love, it is time I retired" *she tilts her head, smiling to herself* * Morgan nods (Morgan) very well (Molly) I wonder if you might wish to check whether the shore fires are fully extinguished, just incase of a sudden inshore wind * Morgan nods (Morgan) good idea (Molly) I will prepare your oil and things * Morgan nods, letting her go (Morgan) I shouldn't be long * Molly takes her shawl and a lantern "Alright, liebling. However long you need" * Morgan nods, opening the door * Molly goes safely back into the study * Morgan heads up onto the deck (Molly) **He looks to check all the fires on the shore are out, which they aren't quite. A few embers that would likely burn out before long remain illuminating the sand. * Morgan nods to himself briefly (Molly) **It's dark now, the stars in full dazzle, the clouds having cleared. Those on watch are quiet, and everyone else has gone to bed* * Morgan stays on deck for ten minutes before heading back below (Molly) **As he passes HH and Inga's room, he hears HH singing drunkenly "an' 'e cov'ed 'er peaches in cream, yus 'e cov'ed 'er peaches in cream. I: *she sounds a bit frustrated* Very nice, go to sleep. (Molly) HH: But little dorlin', 's no' really 'bout peaches, like fr'm th' trees *he starts chuckling, obviously very inebriated*. She sighs, speaking matter-of-factly* Yes, I know. You told me last time you were drunk. It's about her breasts. (Molly) **HH chuckles more** Tha's roight, lil dorlin'. **There's a moment of quiet before he says** No' really 'bout cream like fr'm th' nei'er. **Inga sighs frustratedly* No, I know, Heinzharold. Could you just stop talking? (Molly) **HH mumbles something, chuckling. To which she laughs with exasperation** _Then_ you'll go to sleep? Alright. **Then there's quiet. A few seconds later there's HH's familiar snoring. She mutters affectionately "You're going to feel it in the morning, you great plank". * Morgan shakes his head, moving on (Molly) **the rest of the ship is quiet. Only the lantern in their room remains lit. Molly is already in bed, looking tired (Molly) Was everything safe? * Morgan nods (Morgan) a few small embers at most (Molly) That's good. Shall I help you with the oil? (Morgan) please * Molly helps him with the oil, herbs and balm, and he prepares for bed. With the lanterns extinguished, its pitch black when she says "would you mind singing to me please?" (Morgan) what would you like to hear? (Molly) Whatever you would like to sing * Morgan nods, singing an Eisen lullaby (Molly) **It takes a little while, but she falls asleep before him. He sends up a quick prayer for her to have a better night, and then falls asleep with a protective arm across her as if he can somehow keep her safe from whatever it was that has hurt her so much. He falls asleep too, eventually, on high alert to her movement* (Molly) "Lotsa smoke Cap'n, gonna make it hard" The Avalonian sailor is replied to in the same language "Aye, steady as she goes". Morgan is on deck, as he usually is even as a passenger. His trip to Eisen is over, having reconnected with the land of his birth, his Father, and his memories in Sudlachenburg. This Ketch from Carleon to Tawstock is taking him back on the final leg, back to Lady Torrington's house, and to Molly. He sees the black smoke rising up from the harbour, obscuring the view of the port. (Molly) ((Done with c&p btw)) (Molly) "Lotsa smoke Cap'n, gonna make it hard" The Avalonian sailor is replied to in the same language "Aye, steady as she goes". Morgan is on deck, as he usually is even as a passenger. His trip to Eisen is over, having reconnected with the land of his birth, his Father, and his memories in Sudlachenburg. (Molly) This Ketch from Carleon to Tawstock is taking him back on the final leg, back to Lady Torrington's house, and to Molly. He sees the black smoke rising up from the harbour, obscuring the view of the port. * Morgan frowns (Morgan) You still going to be able to dock, captain? (Molly) **The Captain looks pretty experienced* Slowly, aye. Might have to change ports if there's something in our way, that alright for you, my Lord? (Morgan) Wheres the nearest port? ** You're now known as Captain (Captain) When we came into the estuary and went east, if we went south there's the dock of Kingston, bout twelve miles over land (Morgan) We'll have to see * Captain nods, getting back to work. The crew bring the small vessel in very carefully, the smoke clearing quickly. There's a large crowd of people on the dock watching the water where masts stick out. * Morgan leans over the rail, looking at it * Captain inclines his head as they dock "Got you ere safe and sound" He looks over at it. Nearby is another ship and what seems to be a team of salvaged working, long air lines running beneath the surface. The masts look disturbingly familiar. (Captain) Salvagers* * Morgan frowns (Morgan) that doesn't look good * Captain nods (Captain) Salvagers are out quick, gi'en the smoke, but once she's sank you're not saving many * Morgan nods (Morgan) Might offer my help * Captain gets the plank in place so Morgan can disembark * Morgan heads down the plank and heads straight fo the salvage crew (Captain) **They're out of the ship. The closest he can get is the dock, near the gawkers. Also in the dock are a few small vessels, plus 4 large sailing ships, including the Coral and the Solemn Wind (Captain) On* (Captain) **There's noone in the crowd he knows. * Morgan looks at them before shoving his way through the crowd (Captain) **The salvagers are working hard. From the railing, he can see at least ten sheet wrapped bodies on the deck of their ship * Morgan turns to the nearest person (Morgan) what was it? ** You're now known as woman (woman) There was an explosion, she blew out 'neath the water line, dropping like a rock (woman) **Someone else chimes in "'s Forrester's daughter's ship, innit?" (Morgan) anyone on it? * woman points to the sheeted bodies "At least forty, they reckon" (Morgan) just crew? * woman shrugs (woman) Don't know yet. Someone's gone down Sunnymeade and up the big house t' ask (woman) **Finally Morgan spots a familiar face, it's Kurt coming off the Solemn Wind * Morgan barges his way through the crowd to the solemn wind (woman) **Kurt looks a bit surprised to see him** Morgan. (Morgan) Whats happened? * woman looks grim ** You're now known as Kurt (Kurt) There was an explosion, the Rose has sunk. (Morgan) Was Molly aboard? (Kurt) She wasnt supposed to be, but she wasnt at the house when Kai came down here * Morgan tilts his head (Morgan) Soon... we're going to talk about the exact words you just used... for now, I need to find her * Kurt looks at Morgan (Kurt) I've sent out search parties, anywhere I could think of that she might have gone * Morgan looks at the Rose (Morgan) Do you know for sure none of those bodies are her? (Kurt) **The salvagers are bringing up the body of a young sailor Morgan yelled at in Freiburg only three months ago** (Kurt) I've paid them to bring the news straight to me * Morgan grips the railing hard (Kurt) She's probably gone off alone. You know how she is when she's got things on her mind * Kurt leans on the rail, watching the proceedings (Morgan) I hope so... not just for her sake * Kurt glances at him (Kurt) Oh? * Morgan grinds his teeth (Morgan) If she's hurt, there's not a place the perpetrator can hide where I won't find him. * Kurt nods (Kurt) You love her. * Morgan scowls * Kurt shrugs (Kurt) **Another man is brought up dead, laid on the deck and then shrouded** (Kurt) Go and have a drink. I'll find you with news. * Morgan nods slightly, heading to the nearest tavern (Kurt) **As he turns to go, he sees that Kai is stood on the deck of the Solemn Wind, watching the salvagers** * Morgan glowers at him as he walks past (Kurt) **He gets into the tavern, which is empty aside from a barmaid. She looks at him** Ale? * Morgan nods (Kurt) **She gets it, taking the money* You looking for company? (Morgan) Only that of a particular person... so no (Kurt) **she goes back to cleaning. He has no idea how long passes until the door opens * Kurt carries a sheet wrapped bundle, looking sad * Morgan watches him (Kurt) I'm sorry, Morgan. **As he turns to get in the door, Morgan can see a distinctive Eisen gold and dark brown dress hanging out of the folds, one he had sent her only last month * Morgan shakes his head (Morgan) no. * Kurt places her body gently on the long table (Kurt) I'll tell her Father. *he looks at the barmaid, nodding to the door* Come on, let's give him some privacy (Morgan) What did you mean? (Kurt) About what? (Morgan) she wasn't _supposed_ to be aboard... (Kurt) That doesn't matter right now **The barmaid leaves* * Morgan stands up slowly, every movement measured (Morgan) Answer the question (Kurt) Morgan, don't waste your energy on this. It will be dealt with. (Morgan) You knew... Who was it? * Kurt watches him (Kurt) Grieve, Morgan. There will be a time for retribution, it is not today. (Morgan) Damn well tell me (Kurt) Kai. But Morgan, you cant touch him yet * Morgan pulls his sword out, levelling it at Kurts solar plexus (Morgan) tell me that again... i fucking dare you (Kurt) As a son of Eisen, you need to listen to me. * Morgan speaks through gritted teeth (Morgan) talk... quickly (Kurt) It will destabilise the region and more lives will be lost. It is for the good of our homeland. (Morgan) You think I care? All I've had from the so called nobility of Eisen is to have people I care about taken fro me... (Kurt) I'm sorry for your losses (Morgan) You have an hour... thats all the head start he gets. * Kurt turns on his heel and leaves * Morgan drops his sword, going to sit back at the table (Kurt) **The silence is absolute. Despite being in a room with her, it is only his breathing he can hear** (Morgan) I'm going to rip him limb from limb (Kurt) **The embroidery of burgundy stitching on the revealed gold hem is Edelweiss flowers. He'd seen some on his trip. If she had been with him instead of here...* * Morgan hangs his head (Kurt) **Kurt doesn't return, nor does the barmaid. Outside, the calls of the market traders resumes as if it was a brief, irrelevant diversion** * Morgan gathers her up from the table, heading out the door (Kurt) **He can feel the chill of the water coming off her. For a moment it reminds him of carrying her unconscious from the pool back in August. He'd saved her that time. People are too busy to notice him** * Morgan starts trudging to her parents house (Kurt) **not long out of the dock he trips, and the impact on the ground is what awakens him* ** You're now known as Molly (Molly) **its pitch black** * Morgan breathes deeply, trying to figure out what time it is (Molly) **he's been asleep less than forty five minutes** * Morgan rolls over, getting out of bed * Molly stirs (Molly) Mmm? (Morgan) Its alright. I just need to get some air * Molly murmurs "fingers? C'mere, I fix?" (Morgan) No, I just need some air (Molly) Mmhmm **she goes back to sleep** * Morgan leaves the room, working his way up on deck (Molly) **It's very dark, but once there he can still see the faint glow of two campfires. The crewman on deck says "evenin'" * Morgan nods to him (Morgan) anything going on? (Molly) Crewman: absolutely nothin' * Morgan nods (Morgan) got a drink? ** You're now known as Crew (Crew) Dont drink on duty, my lord (Morgan) I mean coffee... I'm going to get some, thought I'd offer (Crew) Please * Morgan nods, heading to the galley (Crew) **its empty. He guesses its into middle watch now, after midnight, though not by much. * Morgan sets about making coffee (Crew) ((How long is he staying up for? Staying on deck, going up rigging, or going on the beach etc?)) (Morgan) ((a good hour at least, probably down onto the beach)) (Crew) **Approaching two o'clock, he starts to feel really tired** * Morgan goes back to his bedroom ** You're now known as Molly * Molly is quite far over on her side once he's undressed and back in * Morgan slides over to lay behind her * Molly is, especially compared to the feel of her in his nightmare, nice and warm. She reaches back, bringing his arm around her (Molly) Okay? (Morgan) just a nightmare (Morgan) probably (Molly) Talk? (Morgan) No... go to sleep * Molly nods. Then half a minute later she says in a sleepy but serious tone "Stay with me, okay? Don't go" (Morgan) alright (Molly) Thank you *her tone is great relief* * Molly 's rhythmic breathing of sleep helps him fall back to sleep, mostly because it reassures him she's still alive (Molly) **It's very warm in the yellow tone dream he finds himself in. He's sat on grass against a tree beneath a small canopy that's been put up between the trees to keep the sun off. (Molly) In the distance is a house that looks like an Eisen version of the Torrington house. Lying asleep on the blanket between his knees is a familiar red-headed child, little Madchen. She looks to be about Gawain's age. (Molly) He's got a paper fan, fanning Molly who has her head on his thigh. She's on her back, and a tiny newborn is nestled between her bare breasts, blouse opened and trailing on to the grass. (Molly) The baby has Martha's gingery red hair, and is dressed in just a nappy cloth. It's rather hot, aside from the breeze he's making. (Molly) "Ah, liebes herz, we timed it badly having a second newborn in July, don't you think?" (Morgan) wasn't the wisest timing (Molly) I wonder if I should have delivered him in Sudlachenburg rather than here, where there's a breeze off the lake at least. We stayed there so many weeks with Madchen. * Morgan nods (Morgan) possibly * Molly smiles, closing her eyes (Molly) Gosh, this heat! Imagine if we were back at Lundy, swimming naked in the cold sea (Morgan) aye, it'd be a welcome relief * Molly smiles (Molly) I'd likely be with child again within a month, though, wouldn't I? (Morgan) maybe * Molly giggles (Molly) You wish to wait a lot longer this time? (Morgan) Probably an idea, don't you think? (Molly) Hmmm... it is probably what we should do, but... (Molly) *she tilts her head back to give him a grin* (Molly) **The baby roots around, patting at her chest. Then he looks up towards Morgan. He can see his own eyes in the shape of the baby's, and Molly's mouth there too** (Morgan) well... quite (Molly) Do you miss it at Lundy? * Morgan shrugs (Morgan) as long as I'm with you, I'm happy (Molly) **The baby latches onto her with ease, and she needs to do nothing to aid him. She looks very experienced with this** (Molly) That's very sweet, liebling * Molly gently strokes the baby's back (Molly) Do you think the machine is still working? (Morgan) I have no idea * Molly smiles reassuringly (Molly) I think it probably will be. We can check next time we're there * Morgan nods (Morgan) aye (Molly) **The baby comes off, looking awake and peaceful. She passes him up to Morgan** Would you wind him please? * Morgan does so * Molly takes a drink of water from a stoppered bottle. The baby feels so real and solid. Madchen stirs. (Molly) Or the stream at the Golden Lantern, that would be nice and cool too (Morgan) anywhere with cold water you mean? (Molly) I could stand a cold bath, if you would attend me! **Molly smiles. Madchen wakes up with a grin at Morgan, trying to sit up but rocking like an upended turtle, chubby arms and legs sticking out of a white cotton dress flailing.* * Morgan tickles her tomach (Morgan) I could probably manage that (Molly) **Madchen laughs, saying Pa! Pa!** * Molly looks at the three of them happily (Molly) Some days, I wonder what I did right to deserve to be so contented. (Molly) **The baby rests quietly on Morgan's shoulder** (Morgan) I think it was figuring out a chocolate cake recipe that I like * Molly smiles, drinking again (Molly) **From the direction of the house, there's an odd sound of bells. It's almost like church bells, but all mixed up, parts of the tune backwards, notes in the wrong pitch. (Morgan) That sounded... off (Molly) **Molly shakes her head, white as a sheet. (Molly) "No…" (Morgan) blossom? * Molly squares her shoulders then hurriedly does up her blouse. (Molly) You need to stay here. (Morgan) why? (Molly) Stay with the children. They need you. We need you. (Morgan) blossom, you need to tell me... * Molly looks grim, resolved, and stands (Molly) I can't let you go. You need to stay here. Don't follow me, I mean it, Morgan. (Morgan) Then tell me whats going on (Molly) A husband may command his wife often, but he must love her like he loves the church, and sacrifice for her. You will sacrifice for me now, I beg you. (Morgan) Stop yammering and tell me whats going on (Molly) *she shakes her head* I can't. No matter what you hear, you stay right here. Don't come to the house. (Morgan) Stay here (Molly) No! *she looks panicked* Please, I will be back. * Molly turns and starts to sprint towards the house, flinging open the doors to what is likely the great hall. With the doors open, there's also a whirring and clicking. Then the door is closed. * Morgan scowls (Molly) **His son watches him from his arm, and Madchen is roughly pulling up grass. She looks at him** ime… (Morgan) what? ** You're now known as Madchen (Madchen) Ma... ime... * Madchen looks in the direction of the house before looking back to him (Madchen) Ma. *she tries to use his hand to sit herself up* * Morgan helps her into a sitting position * Madchen grins. She touches her face "Mae" then she reaches to touch his * Morgan leans down and kisses her fingers (Morgan) I don't know (Madchen) **she does* "Pa" * Madchen again touches her face "Mae", and tries to touch him again with a grin "Pa" (Morgan) Mae? (Madchen) *she touches her face, grinning* (Madchen) Maeshn (Morgan) thats right... * Madchen reaches for him again "Pa" (Morgan) yes * Madchen looks in the direction of the house "Ma" (Madchen) **the baby starts to fidget* (Morgan) yes, mama has gone in the house * Morgan moves the baby, bouncing him slightly (Madchen) Ime. * Madchen now reaches for the baby whilst looking at Morgan "Eh." (Morgan) Yes, thats right (Madchen) **the bells stop** * Madchen covers her face with her hands, then uncovers it "Ooo!" She grins (Morgan) booo.... * Madchen laughs loudly * Madchen does it again. The baby starts sucking on his fingers (Morgan) boo... * Madchen shrieks at this. Then she covers her eyes for a long time, not taking her hands off. * Morgan tickles her belly * Madchen giggles and uncovers her eyes "Ma". (Morgan) Pa... (Madchen) **Molly comes out again. He can hear shouting voices. She sits down on the step by the door, looking as solemn as a soldier who has made it to the end of the battle.* (Morgan) You need to tell me whats going on. Right now. (Madchen) **Molly looks over at him and the children, nodding to herself a moment. From in the house, there is a shout of "Molly, what the fuck have you done?! You've ruined everything". It's Edward's voice. (Madchen) **The dawn watch chimes once. Madchen frowns** Pa? * Morgan looks at her (Morgan) Time for me to go soon (Madchen) Pa go? *she looks sad* * Morgan nods * Madchen shakes her head "no go." (Morgan) Its nearly dawn * Madchen pulls up to stand, giving him something approximating a kiss on his cheek, but its clumsy and dribbly (Madchen) **Back near the house, Molly yells "Shut up, Edward!" * Madchen looks at Molly, then Morgan (Madchen) Ma. (Morgan) yes, ma * Madchen flops back down on her bottom (Madchen) Ma. Pa. Mae. Eh. (Morgan) yes, thats right * Madchen sighs, and starts to wave her hand in an open and closed motion looking sad. (Madchen) Pa back? (Morgan) I imagine I will do some time yes * Madchen smiles. There's three chimes** (Madchen) **he wakes up* * Morgan sighs, rolling out of bed * Madchen wakes up suddenly, and says "huh" ** You're now known as Molly * Molly wakes up suddenly, and says "huh" * Morgan watches her, pulling his clothes on * Molly seems to be thinking hard, then squares her shoulders (Molly) Is it dawn already? (Morgan) aye (Molly) Alright * Molly starts getting out of bed (Molly) What time did you come back last night? * Morgan shrugs * Molly frowns a little, wrapping a dressing gown around her (Molly) Alright liebling. I am going to write my nightmare now (Morgan) as you wish (Molly) ((What's the tone?)) (Morgan) ((indifferent)) * Molly tilts her head (Molly) Is something the matter? (Morgan) You tell me... why would there be? (Molly) You seem short with me (Morgan) Why could that be? I haven't _said_ anything (Molly) Precisely. Normally you would tell me to get more rest, or answer me about the time. (Morgan) You will do as you please * Molly bows her head, pulling the gown tighter (Molly) I will leave it on the desk for you then. (Morgan) If thats what you want to do * Molly nods and walks past him to go towards the study ((catches hold of her or lets her pass?)) (Morgan) ((lets her go)) * Morgan collects his things and goes up on deck ** You're now known as Claudia * Claudia is up the rigging as she commonly is (Claudia) Morning * Morgan grunts, hauling himself into the rigging (Claudia) Cheerful. Scotch? * Morgan nods, holding out his hand * Claudia hands it over (Claudia) Still brooding about Heinzharold? (Morgan) No (Claudia) Got any good hangover cures? (Morgan) Not getting hammered in the first place works well (Claudia) Way too late. He's going to need one, he was three sheets to the wind when I sent him to bed (Claudia) **the sunrise itself wont be visible from here, due to the cliff face** (Morgan) I noticed... I heard him trying to woo Inga as I passed on my way to bed * Claudia laughs (Claudia) Drunk as he was, I bet that was hilarious (Morgan) its not really about peaches, lil dorlin... (Claudia) What wasn't? * Claudia holds out her hand for the flask * Morgan hands it over (Morgan) the song he was singing to her * Morgan drops a few feet (Morgan) I need to get where I can see the sun rising * Claudia gestures upwards (Claudia) Top of the cliff. I've got to stay on watch, sorry * Morgan nods (Morgan) I'll be back * Morgan drops down to the deck, setting off for the top of the cliff (Claudia) **The path leads up, he can choose to head towards the farm, or to the gardens of the manor house * Morgan heads towards the gardens while muttering about bloody sheep (Claudia) **The gardens need work, they're overgrown, but they look like they will be nice when they're done. They slope up away from the house which he can see, and behind that the forest. In the very far distance he can see across the bay to the mainland, and then the horizon* * Morgan walks until he can see the right part of the cliff top to see the sunrise then stops (Claudia) **It rises in its usual manner, theres no sign of any activity on the island* * Claudia is still there when he gets back, though the watch has changed. He's been gone from the ship around forty-five minutes (Claudia) Less grumpy now? (Morgan) Not noticably (Claudia) Maybe I wont be on your recon team and it wont be my problem *she grins* (Morgan) Could be monsters... (Claudia) They're down in the dining room eating breakfast and hatching plans * Morgan nods (Morgan) right (Claudia) I'm just awaiting my orders * Morgan nods (Morgan) I'll go see what they're planning (Claudia) Maybe see if Heinzharold survived the night too? * Morgan nods (Morgan) aye (Claudia) ((Where does he go?)) (Morgan) ((dining room)) (Claudia) **It is packed with sailors. Molly, James and Sorgi seem to be working on some plans whilst the others are eating. Sorgi notices Morgan first, inclining his head, whilst Molly and James seem to be in a deep discussion * Morgan nods, fetching himself some breakfast (Claudia) ((Where does he sit?)) * Morgan moves around to sit by Molly ** You're now known as Molly * Molly looks up at him a moment. Anyone else would just see the smile, but he can also see the micro-expression of worry (Molly) *she has a cheerful tone* I am glad you are here, we have a suggestion for you as to where to put people today (Morgan) go on * Molly slides him a piece of paper, which says: Ship- Koen +19, Inga, Varick (Molly) Orchard- Sorgi, 10 (Molly) Woods- 10 (Molly) Farm- Molly, HH, +6 (Molly) House- Claudia, Morgan, Molly, HH +8 afterwards? (Molly) Ketch- 3 (Molly) Tunnels- Claudia, Morgan, +2 (Molly) Cove- 15 (Molly) Church/Tavern/Market- James +5 (Molly) Perimeter- 10 (Molly) J: The teams are all people with relevant experience, my lord * Morgan nods (Morgan) looks good * Molly nods (Molly) You're happy for Heinzharold and I to lead at the farm? (Morgan) and save me dealing with the sheep? Certainly. * Molly nods, standing "I'll go and see if he's ready" (Morgan) Is this all in a particular order? (Molly) I thought we'd all set off very shortly, meet back here when we're done, and those of us going to the house will go on up later on? * Morgan nods (Morgan) very well (Morgan) I'll fetch HeinzHarold * Molly nods "I will let Varick and Inga know I am going very soon" (Molly) Sorgi: Happy with it, m'lord? * Morgan nods (Morgan) aye (Molly) **Sorgi proceeds to get everyone organised whilst Molly goes one way and Morgan goes the other. HH's door is shut** ** You're now known as HH * HH calls "come in" when Morgan knocks. He's dressed, drinking tea that smells of lemon, ginger and chamomile, the mix Molly gave him when he'd drunk too much with Edward.* (Morgan) Got away with it then? (HH) With what? (Morgan) the hangover you deserve (HH) My head's bangin'. She had some of that mannheim moonshine. Ne'er thought I'd drink that again * Morgan nods (Morgan) blows the top clear off doesn't it * HH nods, sipping the tea then grimacing (HH) Got a lecture fr'm my wife though (Morgan) surely not a lecture from you lil dorlin... (HH) She hates bein' woken up when she's been asleep. Makes her really grouchy in the mornin' (HH) Hang on, what? * Morgan looks innocent (HH) I dont say it like tha' * Morgan shrugs (HH) Told 'er I'll sleep elsewhere if me sneaking in is a nuisance (Morgan) I can see how that meaning would come about from singing about creaming her peaches... * HH groans (HH) Oh no, not again (HH) How did you find out? (Morgan) I have ears * HH grimaces more than with the drink (HH) Well that makes us even for yesterday (Morgan) yesterday? (HH) You and Molly in the study (Morgan) maybe... (HH) Inga hasn't been tellin' your wife about the peaches then? (Morgan) Didn't need to... you were quite expressive about it * HH blushes (HH) She warned me last time not to be coming to bed an' singing that (Morgan) it was the explaining that it wasn't really about peaches or cream that topped it off, I think (HH) Oh god that's e'en worse (Morgan) s'not good... (HH) I don't even 'member it (Morgan) I'm not surprised * HH finishes the tea (HH) Best not drink tha' much again (Morgan) I wouldn't if I were you (HH) She'll forgive me, as us'al * Morgan nods (Morgan) we need to get moving but... she told me what you did * HH looks a bit unsure (HH) Theres a lot o' things she could tell y' (Morgan) The graves, the house... * HH inhales deeply through his nose (HH) Did she now... * Morgan nods, putting a hand on the back of HeinzHarolds neck (Morgan) she did... Thank you. I owe you. * HH hugs him hard (HH) You owe me nothing. (Morgan) come on, we've got an island to search * HH hugs him a moment longer "Sorry I couldn't do more" (Morgan) Neither of us saw it coming... but its dealt with now * HH nods, letting go (HH) What's the plan? (Morgan) Molly and James have planned out who's going where to search (HH) [Varick wants to see you. Please tell Heinzharold I and the others will wait at the bottom of the cliff path] (Morgan) They'll be waiting at the bottom of the cliff path... I need to see Varick * HH bows, going out. Then he sticks his head back in (HH) Hope I get the orchard, just incase there's peaches I can bring back for Inga *he grins* * Morgan laughs (Morgan) afraid not... go on, go * HH goes off, humming the song in question ** You're now known as Varick * Morgan wanders off to find Varick * Varick and Inga are in the study. The desk is empty of the nightmare recollection Molly had said she would write. (Varick) Morgan! **he runs over and hugs Morgan's legs** (Morgan) Good morning my little man (Varick) *Inga is sewing, sat on the couch* (Varick) I: good morning (Morgan) Inga (Varick) Need to show you something in my room. (Morgan) lead the way * Varick does so, sitting on the bed and whispering (Varick) Dont need to see anything. Gotta talk to you about ghosts (Morgan) Go on (Varick) There's two on the island (Morgan) alright... Do you know who? * Varick shakes his head (Varick) A girl and a man * Morgan nods slowly (Morgan) alright (Varick) She's in the tunnels. He's in the house. (Morgan) wonderful. Anything you can tell me about them? (Varick) No. Haven't met them. Do you want me to go and look for them? (Morgan) No, stay with Inga. I'll keep them in mind while we're searching * Varick nods (Varick) When can I go off the ship? (Morgan) once we've made sure the island is safe for you (Varick) Okay. Will you be back by dark? (Morgan) thats the plan * Varick gives him a hug goodbye before going to look at his books ** You're now known as Inga * Inga is setting up paper for Varick to draw on when he gets back in the main room (Inga) Have you seen Heinzharold? * Morgan nods (Morgan) indeed I have lil dorlin * Inga goes bright red (Inga) He told you? (Morgan) No... (Inga) I'm really sorry if we disturbed you (Morgan) Not at all... I shall enjoy ribbing him about it for a few hours * Inga nods (Inga) It's the third time he's told me about the meaning of the song. Its funny the first time... (Morgan) He looked fairly mortified when I was telling him (Inga) Good, maybe it'll stop him doing it again (Morgan) I wouldn't count on that (Inga) I don't mind him singing it, but not when I'm half asleep and he'll only fall asleep anyway * Morgan nods * Inga goes even redder at this, looking awkward (Inga) Ummm... (Inga) We'll see you all back soon? (Morgan) Could be a while... lot of ground to cover * Inga nods (Inga) We have everything we need here on the ship * Morgan nods (Morgan) See you later (Inga) Oh, Morgan? (Morgan) yes? (Inga) Is Molly alright? She was running around being really efficient, and that's normally a sign she's troubled (Morgan) I'm annoyed with her. Its probably that (Inga) ::protective:: Oh. I can understand why that would make her troubled then * Morgan nods (Morgan) Dont worry (Inga) Anything I could help with? * Morgan shrugs (Morgan) I doubt it (Inga) That's a shame, I would if I could (Morgan) I've no doubt you would * Inga takes the file of nightmare recollections off the chair and puts it on its spot on the shelf (Inga) I'll let you get on, I hope it goes well * Morgan nods (Morgan) here's hoping * Inga gets on with her work * Morgan picks up his axe and heads out ** You're now known as Claudia * Claudia and two crew members are waiting for him on the deck (Claudia) Ready then? (Morgan) We're going to want lanterns (Claudia) **they get set up with four, as well as extra weapons for the crewmen. They go across the sand, he picks the door and leaves it open for the group on Ketch inspection. They go into the tunnels with Morgan and Claudia in front. It's dark and creepy, but dry, sloping upwards (Claudia) Do we know anything about the tunnels? (Morgan) Probably a ghost down here... and possibly a machine * Claudia side eyes him (Claudia) A ghost * Morgan shrugs (Claudia) **very quickly they come to a fork (Claudia) Left or right? (Morgan) left (Claudia) **they go left, upwards again. Its surprisingly warm in the tunnels, which have narrowed to ten feet by ten feet (Claudia) What about this fork? (Morgan) left... lets make it easy to find our way back (Claudia) **the tunnels seem to curve and bend. After the next left, he gets a feeling of dejavu * Morgan slows slightly, getting closer to one wall * Claudia looks around (Claudia) We've been here already (Morgan) I was thinking the same (Claudia) **the men behind agree (Claudia) Now what? (Morgan) head back to the last place we recognise and choose the other fork (Claudia) **this is what they do. Suddenly on the right fork theres a cold spot as they pass through it * Claudia looks at Morgan with a frown "what the fuck?" * Morgan shrugs (Claudia) **The crew men are feeling the rocks all around (Claudia) Man1: No idea, not a reason for it (Morgan) I told you this place is weird (Claudia) Alright, let's go on. **about five minutes later, he senses that Molly is a bit distressed** (Morgan) [are you alright?] (Claudia) [There's a ram has been gored in a fight. It's in agony, and dispatching it is only going to be painful and scary for it.] (Morgan) [Get HeinzHarold to deal with it. I don't want you suffering with that memory] (Claudia) [I dont have the physical strength to stick a ram anyway. But if I was alone I could knock it out at the very least] (Morgan) [hit it with a brick, put it to sleep just before the rock hits?] (Claudia) [The men won't listen to me about it. It's alright, it wont take long, it's just sad and frustrating. We'll get them fenced properly before we move on] (Claudia) Left or right? (Morgan) Lets try right this time (Claudia) **they find a cavern full of crates * Claudia stands in the middle to provide light (Morgan) well... lets have a quick look shall we? (Claudia) **The men help him drag some crates out. They're nailed shut** * Morgan takes out his axe * Claudia and the men stand clear * Morgan swings at the corner of the crate (Claudia) **It breaks fine * Morgan pulls it open (Claudia) **its full of Montaigne brandy** (Morgan) can't win them all I suppose (Claudia) **one of the crewmen has a look** probably had no duty paid on it. Get a couple of hundred guilders for that lot in Eisen * Morgan nods (Morgan) Theus knows I won't drink it (Claudia) Got something against the Montaigne? (Morgan) I've met one that I liked... one... (Claudia) **they all laugh** (Claudia) Are you opening anymore? (Morgan) aye, lets open another two, see if its all this stuff (Claudia) **he gets both open very easily* one is more brandy, the other is scotch (Morgan) not a total loss then * Claudia nods (Claudia) It should be safe here (Morgan) I'd have thought so (Claudia) **the air turns cold again suddenly * Claudia and the others look around, but theres nothing to see * Morgan mutters (Claudia) Ready to move on? * Morgan nods (Claudia) **the next forks seem to be a long way apart. This part of the island must be like a swiss cheese. * Claudia looks at Morgan "getting claustrophobic yet"? (Morgan) I'm not Vendel... (Claudia) Why Vendel? (Morgan) all preen, no substance... * Claudia nods nudging him and speaking below the volume the other can hear "you're definitely no preen" (Morgan) thank you... (Claudia) Welcome. (Morgan) Its almost a surprise the place hasn't collapsed in on itself (Claudia) Don't tempt it! * Morgan sniggers (Claudia) **right after they take another fork, almost an hour after they set off, they walk almost directly into a machine. It's cold here too. (Morgan) ah shit * Claudia laughs (Morgan) [I've found the machine] (Claudia) **it looks very similar in construction, but it's making a gentle purring noise and has a soft blue glow to it * Morgan crouches down to examine it closely (Claudia) **The crewmen are staying well back. Claudia watches Morgan* (Claudia) [What is is- Ouch, dammit Hilda!- doing?] (Claudia) Is it* (Morgan) [purring and slightly glowing] * Morgan moves around it making the occasional 'huh' sound (Claudia) [I had a dream last night. I was talking about the machine on lundy and if it was still working] (Claudia) **it doesn't look anything special** * Morgan shuffles closer before standing up to look at the main panel (Claudia) **the panel has an engraving of the island. Around the island about a mile out is a solid line of blue lights (Morgan) what the hell? * Claudia frowns (Claudia) What is this thing? (Morgan) The one I encountered controlled the appearances of the... things (Claudia) It wasnt like this? (Claudia) [Are you safe?] (Claudia) **The crewmen are still staying away (Morgan) [I think so. Not happy about this thing though] (Morgan) No... it had these rod things that controlled it (Claudia) [Could you try to show me? I swear if you peck me once more!] * Morgan tries to send her an image of it (Claudia) **it seems to have no buttons** (Claudia) [Barrier] (Claudia) [I... I dont know where that thought came from] (Morgan) [I don't understand] (Claudia) [I think maybe it's some sort of barrier around the island] * Claudia shrugs (Claudia) Taking the axe to it? (Morgan) Not just yet... * Claudia nods. She also shivers briefly. It's turned cold again (Claudia) We moving on? * Morgan nods (Morgan) aye (Claudia) **they do that, the men moving around it warily. Finally, after what seems like ages, they find an exit that slopes up into a garden** * Morgan nods, looking around (Claudia) **As with the garden he found this morning, its overgrown, but it smells wonderfully of lavender and lemongrass * Claudia looks around (Claudia) What are we doing next? (Morgan) Once the others are ready, we'll go look around the house, unless you want to explore the tunnels a bit more? * Claudia shakes her head (Claudia) I'm good (Morgan) got you a bit spooked? * Claudia tells the crewmen to go and take break on the lawn (Claudia) No, I'm fine. You still grumpy? (Morgan) somewhat * Claudia pulls the weeds off a bench (Claudia) Wanna talk? (Morgan) I'm just pissed off * Claudia hands him the flask (Claudia) Why? * Morgan drinks some, handing it back (Morgan) I have to be upfront, not hide things, but that only seems to apply to me... and it annoys the shit out of me * Claudia drinks a little before putting the flask on the bench in his reach (Claudia) Spoken to her about it? (Morgan) not yet... (Claudia) Think you need to get this out of your system first? * Morgan shrugs (Morgan) I'm, selfishly, giving her a taste of what it feels like first (Claudia) That's stupid as fuck (Morgan) Thats as maybe. I've spoken to her about it before, she can experience it for a change (Claudia) So you're hurt, and you want to hurt her too? (Morgan) I suppose * Claudia shrugs "Do what you want. Just keep it away from Varick. I watched my father and step-mother rip chunks out of each other emotionally in some sadistic tit for tat. Dont subject Varick to it. * Morgan picks up the flash, taking a large mouthful * Claudia yanks off some lavender, crushing it in her hands (Claudia) If Heinzharold was saying this about Inga, what would you tell him to do? (Morgan) You've made your point. Its pathetic. I'll deal with it (Claudia) It's understandable to be angry. You've been trying hard to overcome hour reserve to make her happy. Sounds like she's not meeting you in the middle (Claudia) Your* * Morgan shrugs (Claudia) I'm not trying to be hard on you. You two are good together. I don't want to see you damage that. Either of you. * Morgan nods (Morgan) We'll fix it * Claudia nods (Claudia) Find something to do together. Shooting would be good. Take some time out from all this planning and itinerary nonsense. Just an afternoon. Remember what it is that's really important to you both, because it's not the Rose, and it's not this weird island. (Morgan) You understand this a lot more than you claim to... * Claudia shrugs (Claudia) If I did, Hannalore wouldn't have done a number on me in Freiburg (Morgan) how'd you mean? * Claudia drinks from the flask before putting it down again (Claudia) If I understood relationships more, I'd have seen her jealousy for what it was, not assuming it was just being spoilt and possessive * Morgan nods (Morgan) maybe you struggle to see how it relates to you... * Claudia shrugs (Claudia) Maybe. And it's complicated when it cant ever be anything but a secret (Morgan) I would imagine so * Claudia sighs (Claudia) I haven't told Heinzharold yet either, and I feel a bit bad about it (Morgan) Do you want me to? (Claudia) Thanks, but no. I wasn't going to ever tell either of you, but then you connected the dots. (Morgan) I'm smart... and actually, I was a little surprised (Claudia) Why? You'd never seen me involved with any men (Morgan) I'd never seen you involved with women either... (Morgan) Its... this sounds a little callous, but I promise its not (Claudia) Go on (Morgan) It didn't matter. It still doesn't. I've always accepted you for who you are, and all thats changed is I understand a bit more. * Claudia nods (Claudia) I'm grateful of that. I'm glad in hindsight you worked it out. It doesn't feel good carrying this big secret even from your closest friends. You always have this fear that they'll find out and hate you because you didn't tell them yourself * Morgan nods slowly (Morgan) I completely understand that * Claudia nods (Claudia) I guess you must because of this thing with Molly * Morgan takes the flask again (Morgan) How do you balance it? Not telling someone because they wouldn't accept it, or telling them because not doing so would make them feel untrusted? (Claudia) Tough one. Some people I'll never tell. But people can surprise you. I didn't expect you'd accept this (Morgan) But if its something they've been brought up to believe is utterly wrong? Could you risk that? (Claudia) Depends on how much I trusted them that they cared about me more than their prejudices (Morgan) even something as feared as... an Eisen person with magic? (Claudia) That would be pretty shocking. * Morgan nods, drinking again (Claudia) Tell them, they might freak out and it damages the friendship. Dont tell them, they find out, they feel untrusted and unvalued (Morgan) and if it were someone telling you? (Claudia) About an Eisen person with magic? * Morgan nods (Claudia) I'm adapting. We had healers in the war, we needed them. We have Molly, Sorgi would be dead without her, I might not have use of my arm. I was shocked yesterday about the reverse effect she can have, but it's only like my skill with any weapon. I could kill anyone, doesn't mean I do * Morgan nods, looking at the flash (Morgan) that makes sense... (Claudia) And yeah, she lost her shit yesterday and could have harmed someone, but I lost my shit in Freiburg and beat several men badly. She just need to learn to control it. The rest of us making her more scared of our reactions wont help her self-control * Morgan nods (Morgan) but she's not Eisen (Claudia) No, but why would I trust a foreigner with a weapon more than an Eisener with a weapon? (Morgan) Because its not the done thing for Eisen people to even _have_ that weapon (Claudia) Not the done thing for a woman to be excellent in all melee and ranges weapon disciplines either, but here I am * Morgan glances around (Claudia) **they are alone* (Morgan) And if it were someone close to you? (Claudia) I only have people I like and trust close to me, so that would be better (Morgan) what if it were HeinzHarold... or me? (Claudia) Depends on the magic. He rubbed a wet cat on his face yesterday, I'm not sure it'd be good for him to be able to do anything that's showing off * Morgan smiles slightly (Morgan) Fair point (Claudia) Reckon he could heal his cat allergy with magic? * Morgan speaks quietly (Morgan) Not with mine * Claudia watches him, intrigued (Claudia) Go on (Morgan) Think of the worst sort of magic I could be cursed with... (Claudia) That decaying shit (Morgan) really? Given whats happened to people I love? (Claudia) Fire then * Morgan nods slowly (Claudia) Huh *she nods* (Claudia) Crying shame you're a complete disaster with arrows, flaming ones are always useful (Morgan) I don't need them... (Claudia) How long have you know? What can you do? Who knows? (Morgan) I can do... well, I'm never having a cold coffee ever again. (Morgan) I've known since... since Molly's started (Claudia) Did you get it because of her? (Morgan) No... I got it because I can't leave things alone (Claudia) What do you mean? (Morgan) There was something... weird in the summerhouse. While everyone was at church I went to investigate. Since then... * Claudia nods (Claudia) That's why you've been telling me I have to let you jump in the water if you want to * Morgan nods (Morgan) thats why I don't think Molly is more dangerous than me... (Claudia) Bad dreams makes you both struggle with control? (Morgan) I think its to do with how distressed we are... when I'd convinced myself they'd died in the explosion in Fischler... (Morgan) Only thing I could think of was to get in the water, away from people and all the wood in the ship (Claudia) Then this nightmare of hers yesterday could be as intensely distressing as what you went through in Zweibrucke? * Morgan nods (Morgan) could be * Claudia levels a look at him (Claudia) Right. Who else knows? (Morgan) Sorgi. * Claudia looks surprised (Claudia) He hasn't said (Morgan) It was to show I trusted him. I couldn't bear the thought of seeing fear or disgust in your eyes so practically begged him to keep it to himself * Claudia nods (Claudia) This permanently hot coffee...? (Morgan) yes? (Claudia) This is a perk extended to all friends who take the news well, right? * Morgan nods (Claudia) That seems useful (Morgan) Its made the watches easier... that and the cat scarf * Claudia nods (Claudia) If you accidentally burned someone, can she heal them? (Morgan) I don't know. Probably. (Claudia) She can't heal this magic out of you? (Morgan) Its not a disease or an injury, so no... * Claudia nods (Claudia) Is there anything else you want to tell me, get it over and done with in one go? (Morgan) I was serious about the ghosts (Claudia) Ghosts are real? (Morgan) apparently (Claudia) What makes you think that? * Morgan looks at her (Morgan) Varick can see them (Claudia) Oh my god (Morgan) or feel them... (Claudia) You sent me on a ghost hunt with a boy who was looking for actual ghosts, and I spent an hour pretending like I believed too, and you knew it was real! (Morgan) I'm not entirely convinced about that one... (Claudia) Right. Let's get this straight. Molly can harm and heal. You have fire magic. Varick sees ghosts. (Morgan) How much more can you take? (Claudia) At this point I'd rather you just get it over and done with, no more new surprises (Morgan) He can speak to animals, and I've been recruited into a secret society. And talking to the Nieblungen is remarkably like talking to Varick when he's sleepy. (Claudia) Riiiiight (Claudia) Any more? (Morgan) Molly and I can speak over a distance... (Claudia) What?! How? (Morgan) I'm not pretending to understand it (Claudia) How big a distance? (Morgan) I was talking to her while we were looking at that machine... (Claudia) I dont know if that's just weird or really amazing (Morgan) its very useful (Claudia) ((1 mile thoughts/comms, 2 miles feelings, 5 sense her location)) (Claudia) Except you can never be properly alone. (Morgan) We can converse over something like a mile... a couple of miles I can pick up how she's feeling... I can tell where she is relative to me over, oh, four or five miles... (Claudia) Wow... that's far. (Morgan) If we want to, we can block it out, keep ourselves to ourselves... its not really any different to talking to someone nearby (Claudia) That's good. It would be awful if you couldn't block someone out of your thoughts and feelings. *she shudders* such an invasion of privacy if you couldn't guarantee the privacy in your own head * Morgan nods (Claudia) Are you done? * Morgan nods slowly (Morgan) I think so (Claudia) Like I said, air it all out and then once it's done, you'll start to feel a bit lighter (Morgan) You recall the fire that started on Loves Requiem? * Claudia nods (Claudia) That was you? * Morgan nods (Claudia) Seemed a bit fast at the time (Morgan) Didn't want them realising what we were doing * Claudia nods (Claudia) Worked well * Morgan nods (Claudia) Have you thought about telling the four of us all of it? (Morgan) Four of you? (Claudia) Me Sorgi Heinzharold Inga (Morgan) I'm... scared of the ramifications (Claudia) With whom? (Morgan) HeinzHarold mainly. This strange relationship we have with the Nieblungen... I only understand bits of it, but if I'm not meant to speak of it... (Claudia) I'll respect that agreement, I guess you gave your word? (Morgan) No, but... (Claudia) Heinzharold will be alright. He's smart, let him see _why_ it's a good thing * Morgan nods slowly (Morgan) might work (Claudia) He would move heaven and earth for you. He might be shocked, but what you have is special * Morgan nods (Claudia) You and Molly have a shit load of magical crap on your plates, along with the lands everywhere, the travel,the nightmares, the pressure to get breeding... it's no wonder you're starting to find cracks * Morgan nods (Claudia) Best to fill them now, rather than picking away at the chips (Morgan) aye (Claudia) I could do with a hot cup of coffee right now. Do you make a fire and then put the coffee on it? * Morgan shakes his head slowly (Claudia) How does it work? (Morgan) I won't prove it like I did with Sorgi... I just need to concentrate on making it warmer * Claudia looks impressed (Claudia) You can do a whole cup? (Morgan) You're underestimating it (Claudia) I thought it was supposed to be balls of fire. Its singular, like hers? (Morgan) Its not like the people that have fire magic before... those are all fireballs. I probably could do that, but I've not tried * Claudia nods (Claudia) You could heat a pan of water for cooking? (Morgan) Think bigger (Claudia) Bucket? (Morgan) Bath... (Morgan) When I threw myself in the harbour, the water around me was distinctly warmer than normal (Claudia) When we're six weeks at sea, there could still be hot baths? * Morgan nods (Claudia) That's going to be really useful in the depths of winter. Pretty useful survival tool * Morgan nods (Morgan) it is (Claudia) There's a ghost in the tunnels (Claudia) That's what the cold bit is? * Morgan nods (Morgan) there's one in the house (Claudia) The ghost was by the machine. Could Varick ask it about the machine? * Morgan shrugs (Morgan) maybe. (Claudia) Do you hate being able to do magic? (Morgan) I did. I absolutely despised it. (Claudia) Especially this one? * Morgan nods (Claudia) And now? (Morgan) I'm not comfortable with the possibilities... but I'm less troubled by being able to * Claudia nods (Claudia) You need to know if she can heal it, for peace of mind * Morgan nods (Morgan) I'll talk to her about it * Claudia nods (Claudia) If you're not going to tell Heinzharold yet, think about telling it all to Sorgi. The two of us can help and protect you more this way * Morgan nods (Morgan) I'll think about it * Claudia nods (Claudia) He thinks Molly's magic is s gift from god (Morgan) He said the same of mine... though I did like his reasoning (Claudia) Which bit? (Morgan) We are not people who would deal with legion, therefore it must be from god * Claudia smiles (Claudia) The Vaticines are good at making an irrational into a rational. They have s whole faith based on illogical ideas because they've found loopholes as to why it supposedly makes sense * Morgan nods (Morgan) most of them have a very predictable reaction to magic, though * Claudia nods (Claudia) He's not your typical vaticine, or a typical man * Morgan nods (Claudia) Speaking of which, are you going to find your wife now? (Morgan) [Where are you?] * Morgan nods (Claudia) [Fighting the world's most aggressive hen with a broom] (Morgan) She's at the farm, having a fist fight with a hen (Claudia) That's so weird. It would have been useful as hell in the war * Morgan nods * Claudia nudges him the scotch (Claudia) You can give me one of your smuggled bottles to refill it (Morgan) That was part of my plan... * Claudia nods (Claudia) Feel better now you have less secrets? * Morgan nods (Claudia) Told ya. Now piss off and talk to your wife, will you? (Morgan) Aye madame at arms * Claudia salutes him before closing her eyes and reclining back on the bench as if contemplating a nap ** You are now disconnected (Software caused connection abort) ------------------------------ Logging started for 192.168.1.82:#7thsea on Friday, 2 July 2021 03:39:50 British Summer Time ------------------------------ ** Reconnecting to 192.168.1.82:6667… ** Reconnecting to 192.168.1.82:6667… ** You have joined #7thsea ** You are now disconnected (Connection timed out) ------------------------------ Logging started for 192.168.1.82:#7thsea on Friday, 2 July 2021 06:53:44 British Summer Time ------------------------------ ** Reconnecting to 192.168.1.82:6667… ** You have joined #7thsea ** You are now disconnected (Connection timed out) ------------------------------ Logging started for 192.168.1.82:#7thsea on Friday, 2 July 2021 10:07:10 British Summer Time ------------------------------ ** You have joined #7thsea ** You are now disconnected (Software caused connection abort) ------------------------------ Logging started for 192.168.1.82:#7thsea on Friday, 2 July 2021 11:00:10 British Summer Time ------------------------------ ** Reconnecting to 192.168.1.82:6667… ** Reconnecting to 192.168.1.82:6667… ** You are now disconnected ** Reconnecting to 192.168.1.82:6667… ** You are now disconnected ** Reconnecting to 192.168.1.82:6667… ** You are now disconnected ** Reconnecting to 192.168.1.82:6667… ** You are now disconnected ** Reconnecting to 192.168.1.82:6667… ** Reconnecting to 192.168.1.82:6667… ** You are now disconnected (Network connection lost) ** Reconnecting to 192.168.1.82:6667… ** Reconnecting to 192.168.1.82:6667… ** You have joined #7thsea ** You are now disconnected ------------------------------ Logging started for 192.168.1.82:#7thsea on Friday, 2 July 2021 11:00:39 British Summer Time ------------------------------ ** Reconnecting to 192.168.1.82:6667… ** You have joined #7thsea ** You are now disconnected ------------------------------ Logging started for 192.168.1.82:#7thsea on Friday, 2 July 2021 11:01:10 British Summer Time ------------------------------ ** Reconnecting to 192.168.1.82:6667… ** You have joined #7thsea ** You are now disconnected ------------------------------ Logging started for 192.168.1.82:#7thsea on Friday, 2 July 2021 11:10:26 British Summer Time ------------------------------ ** You have joined #7thsea (Molly) **he hears the bashing in of fence posts, and HH singing the song about the fish with a couple of the men, taking turns on the verses but all singing the chorus. Sheep are just milling around waiting for their new enclosure. He counts 34. (Morgan) Lost two? ** You're now known as HH * HH stretches out his arms, handing over the hammer to one of the others (HH) A ram injured from fighting, and one of the lambs had blue tongue (HH) **the fence building continues as HH moves out of the way** * Morgan nods (HH) Done in the tunnels? (Morgan) For now (HH) Do y' want some work, or is it a bit mucky for yer majesty? (Morgan) I want to talk to my wife, ackshully (HH) 'Round th' back with the chickens * Morgan nods, heading in that direction (HH) **He passes the house he has already been in, through a vegetable garden that's seen better days, and further in the direction of the woods. Molly is in a field, straw hat tied on her head and a broom in her hand. (HH) Next to the field is a yard with a hen house that has had a fresh piece of wood put on it and a new fence piece. She's got very thick leather gloves on and a grain sack tucked in the back of her waistband. (HH) Secure in the yard, 12 other hens are placidly pecking the ground, but the one on the outside looks very cross. Molly doesn't hear him approach, instead talking to the chicken (HH) "Don't you be thinking I won't just put you in a pie, missy. I've eaten plenty of chickens I've liked significantly more than I like you!" Molly tries to usher the bird in with the broom, but she only squawks and attacks the bristles. "For the love of god, Hilda!" (Morgan) Chicken tonight then? (HH) **She watches him a moment, then untied the ribbons to remove the hat. The hair at the front is stuck to her forehead, she's obviously been hard at work. She smiles** Tempting. I'm sorry, you may want to stand upwind of me, I'm all hot and sticky and probably smell very unpleasant because of it** ** You're now known as Molly (Morgan) I owe you an apology (Molly) **Hilda trots off further from the hen house. Molly ties the hat to her waistband before looking at him** What for? (Morgan) I've been childish and treating you badly * Molly frowns (Molly) Have you? * Morgan nods (Morgan) I hate not being told things when I'm expected to not hide anything myself. * Molly nods solemnly (Molly) You've read it (Morgan) No, I haven't (Molly) Oh... *she puts the broom up on her shoulder, taking a moment to glance at the hen and gather her thoughts* (Molly) I am sorry I haven't been able to tell you. I hope that when you read it you will understand why (Morgan) Its not just that... I was in your dreams last night... no matter how many times I asked you to tell me what was going on, you wouldn't. * Molly frowns again (Morgan) I know, its pathetic (Molly) No, I understand (Morgan) I'm sorry * Molly holds out her hand to him * Morgan takes it (Molly) It's alright. I am sorry I can't bear to tell you face to face * Molly watches him with a hint of sadness * Morgan nods (Morgan) its alright * Molly nods (Molly) I assumed you were cross with me this morning like last week when you had the nightmare that I had abandoned you and our children because of Sebastian (Morgan) No, I was cross because not being told what was going on in your dream frustrated me. It feels like openness and honesty is needed... except where I want it... * Molly nods (Molly) I am sorry. It is a failing of mine, and I am trying to do better (Morgan) Forgive me? (Molly) Oh liebling, of course I do. You need not even ask! * Molly squeezes his hand * Morgan nods (Morgan) There's ghosts on the island * Molly nods (Molly) Mmhmm. But first, can you forgive me? (Morgan) There's nothing to forgive (Molly) There is, because I have displeased you (Morgan) You are trying to overcome it, there is nothing to forgive. I was being childish and cruel. (Molly) Do you think you can manage to bear the smell of me so I can embrace you? * Morgan nods (Morgan) I dare say so * Molly drops the broom wrapping her arms around his waist. She doesn't smell much like roses, but it's fresh sweat, heat, hard work, and just her. (Molly) You weren't childish and cruel. I'm not meeting your needs. (Morgan) Yes I was * Molly holds him tight (Molly) It's alright, I love you (Morgan) I love you * Molly looks up at him, clearly considering kissing him * Morgan leans down and kisses her * Molly kisses him back til she suddenly yelps (Molly) Hilda! You're horrible! *she looks at Morgan with a grin* Pie, or stew? (Morgan) Pie... definitely pie * Molly smiles, pulling out the sack from her waistband and trying to cover the pecking her, but Hilda is too quick and escapes (Molly) Dammit. (Morgan) Give me some feed * Molly takes a handful of dried corn from her pocket (Molly) I want to get on to the house, but until she's dealt with I can't * Morgan nods, kneeling down and dropping some corn near him, leaving some in his outstretched hand before coming completely still (Molly) **Hilda doesn't appreciate this at all, and runs at him with an malicious glint in her eyes** * Morgan waits * Molly slips as she tries to grab the bird, landing hard on her bottom (Molly) Owww!! Bloody hell Hilda! **she starts laughing* * Morgan stays still (Molly) **Hilda gets close, and pecks vigorously at his hand, ignoring the dropped corn. It's quite painful * Molly gets up, rubbing firmly on her derriere with a wince. * Morgan still doesn't move * Molly moves fast, dropping the sack over the bird and scooping her up (Molly) Well done, liebling! * Morgan throws the rest of the corn at the other hens standing up (Morgan) what a thoroughly unpleasant bird (Molly) **Hilda screeches as she's carried in the sack* (Molly) I think she needs a rooster (Morgan) I think she needs rosemary, and some parsley * Molly laughs, almost dropping the sack (Molly) It's tempting, but a couple of the crewmen are butchering the ram and a lamb, if you're hungry now * Morgan shrugs (Morgan) I'm alright * Molly tips Hilda out into the enclosure. Though Molly didn't smell too bad, it's really unpleasant smelling here (Molly) If we get them cooking, we can have lunch up here and keep working * Morgan nods (Morgan) sound idea * Molly doesn't seem to notice the smell (Molly) If I can find a pan, we can have eggs too (Morgan) sounds good (Molly) **That's what the smell is, really old rotten eggs* * Molly looks over the chickens with a satisfied nod, then picks up a basket full of eggs, theres likely over a hundred in it (Morgan) Clearly some bad ones... (Molly) Be glad you weren't here earlier, it was disgusting. It was years worth of old eggs and chicken muck. Even Heinzharold was green * Morgan nods (Morgan) I'll take the machine over that (Molly) Shall we get cleared up here and you can tell me more about it as we go to the house, my love? (Morgan) There's something I need to tell you before we do... (Molly) Yes, liebling? (Morgan) Claudia knows about what I can do... * Molly nods (Molly) Alright (Morgan) and Varick being able to see ghosts and talk to animals * Molly nods again (Molly) Okay * Molly watches him whilst retrieving the broom (Molly) How did she take it? (Morgan) Surprisingly well (Morgan) more so when she realised there's a bigger chance of a warm bath after weeks at sea * Molly nods, smiling (Molly) That will stop all the men smelling so sweaty, wont it? (Morgan) She thinks we should tell HeinzHarold Inga and Sorgi... about all of it (Molly) And what do you think? (Morgan) I think she may be right * Molly nods (Molly) If that is what you wish, my love (Morgan) I'll think about it (Molly) **They tidy away the broom and sack into a cobwebby shed before heading towards the house. She carries the egg basket on one hip** (Molly) Are you glad you told her? * Morgan nods (Morgan) I think so * Molly nods (Molly) It will be simpler? (Morgan) I think so (Molly) Good. Heinzharold and I have not spoken about it all this morning (Morgan) no? (Molly) I think we both had things on our minds and wanted to get on with the work * Morgan nods (Morgan) that makes sense (Molly) Also, he is hungover * Morgan nods (Morgan) indeed he is (Molly) I don't think he'd like the quickest cure (Morgan) No (Molly) Shall I tell you about a nice dream I had last night whilst we walk? * Morgan nods (Molly) It was just strange. I lived on the coast, a cottage on a beach with high sand dunes. My father was a fisherman, it was just he and I, and our dog Shep. (Molly) I dont think I've ever seen a dog like him, he had really long white and grey fur, and I had to keep washing the sand off his fur and trimming around his eyes. (Molly) He was chasing seagulls and I was chasing him. He ran up into the sand dunes and started licking your face. (Molly) You were trying to sketch the bay, and the island in the distance. We didn't know each other, but I thought you were handsome. (Molly) You asked if you could sketch Shep and I, and said if it didn't come out well I'd have to let you come back the next day and the next day until it was perfect. (Molly) I really didn't mind the idea of you coming back, you were so sweet and gentlemanly. Then you woke me up with your nightmare. (Morgan) sounds about right (Molly) Is it familiar to you at all? (Morgan) No.... no not at all (Molly) Me either. It could just be a dream * Morgan nods (Molly) Was your nightmare the Schattenmann, after my father's discovery? (Morgan) No... You'd been on the Rose when it was destroyed * Molly takes his hand (Molly) I'm sorry, that sounds unpleasant * Morgan nods (Morgan) it was * Molly sighs (Molly) An alternate path? (Morgan) Possibly (Molly) I had thought about going down there, to take a break from the guests * Morgan nods (Molly) But then I thought of how I had said I would look after the house, and how you would be disappointed if I had left whilst they were there (Morgan) I'm glad you didn't go down there * Molly nods (Molly) As am I. You kept me safe, without even doing anything at all * Morgan nods (Molly) **Molly looks at the vegetables in the patch. It's getting sunnier now** I don't think we'll get anything useful from this. It needs clearing and tilling before starting again. * Morgan nods (Morgan) doesn't surprise me (Molly) The whole farm is in a bit of a state. You had two sows, but they're both dead, starvation by the look of it. Four cows and a calf, but the calf died, and then its mother had noone to drain the milk so she got mastitis and died. Your other three are probably too old to breed, not that you have a bull anyway. * Morgan nods (Molly) We haven't started on the house or the back fields, save for a quick livestock check. We're going to need space to burn the waste. * Morgan nods (Morgan) alright (Molly) It's not very exciting, I suppose (Molly) **Molly opens the unlocked back door of the farmhouse, stepping into the kitchen space. She looks around, nodding (Molly) It's not as bad as I expected (Morgan) no? (Molly) That's the thing with dust and mess. Once there are no people, it only builds slowly. There's a lot of cobwebs though. * Morgan nods (Morgan) and we all love spiders * Molly sets down the egg basket and starts opening the dresser. She doesn't seem ill at ease investigating someone else's house (Molly) Oh, I shouldn't imagine there's all that many sp- *she makes a little shriek, moving back from the dresser rapidly* (Morgan) big one? (Molly) No. Just surprised me is all * Morgan nods (Morgan) alright (Molly) Would you like me to remove it? * Morgan shrugs (Morgan) your choice * Molly spends a few minutes catching it before putting it outside. Once she's back in she resumes her searching of the kitchen (Molly) Hmm... so, several things left behind, of little value. But it's so bare, they seem to have taken everything they could. (Morgan) unusual (Molly) **the parlour is much the same, dusty and cobwebby but there's still furniture. Molly leads the way upstairs, the wood creaking a little (Molly) Whowever lived here was quite house proud. It's dirty now, but it's all dirt that started at the same time. I'd wager that until they left she kept it impeccably. (Morgan) You think so? * Molly glances at him with a smile (Molly) A maid knows these things (Morgan) I suppose so (Molly) **There's two rooms up under the thatched roof, both with big beds. They're neatly made, but it does smell musty, the dust and cobwebs decorating these bedrooms too. Molly smiles a little. (Molly) Half a day and I could have this house spic and span (Morgan) I've no doubt (Molly) Strip those sheets and boil wash them, they'd dry by bedtime... * Molly smiles thoughtfully (Molly) Dont you think? (Morgan) probably aye * Molly glances at him (Molly) We have too much to do, sadly (Morgan) yes we do (Molly) It would be prudent to leave a couple of the crew up here who can farm, because we want the animals tended * Morgan nods (Morgan) are we going to ask your fathers contacts to come over? * Molly shrugs (Molly) That is up to you, my love. It is your island * Morgan shrugs (Molly) Heinzharold and the others could shear the sheep in a day. But assessing the state of the island and its potential might be wise (Morgan) I agree * Molly comes to take his hand (Molly) What shall we do now? * Morgan shrugs (Morgan) should probably help HeinzHarold finish up before we have lunch and search the house * Molly nods slowly (Molly) Yes, we should * Morgan nods (Molly) That is what you wish to do? * Morgan shrugs (Morgan) its what we need to do (Molly) Alright... *she smiles* let's do that. Are Claudia and the others outside with Heinzharold? (Morgan) Claudia was relaxing when I left her in the gardens * Molly smiles (Molly) I am glad. I get the feeling she does little of that * Morgan nods (Morgan) aye (Molly) **Back outside, Claudia has joined Heinzharold, and with both sets of the crewman working too, the fencing is almost finished. There's the smell of cooked mutton and lamb. Heinzharold throws a hammer to him* * Morgan catches it easily (Molly) **The work won't take long, but it's quite satisfying. Molly watches him from a safe spot on the grass whilst he and Claudia work together on nailing boards in place. HH and the men are singing a song about the Maid On The Shore, another one Morgan knows** ** You're now known as Claudia * Claudia holds the board steady, talking quietly (Claudia) Everything alright? * Morgan nods (Morgan) fine (Claudia) Sorted yourselves out? * Morgan nods (Claudia) Good. I didn't fancy knocking your heads together * Morgan nods (Morgan) aye (Claudia) The meat smells good, shame we didn't bring up some scotch and brandy too * Morgan nods (Morgan) aye. Still, nevermind (Claudia) We can fetch some later. Are we going back that way to destroy the machine? (Morgan) I haven't decided yet * Claudia nods, waiting til he's banged the nails in (Claudia) Going to the main house after lunch? * Morgan nods (Morgan) yes (Claudia) Expecting trouble? * Morgan smiles slightly (Morgan) might be (Claudia) Hoping for trouble? (Morgan) minor trouble, perhaps... * Claudia laughs. Once the fences are done, they work at getting the sheep in the correct areas and getting the water and feed troughs done. Someone has replaced the frayed well rope. HH looks over the work, and comes to Morgan ** You're now known as HH (HH) That should stop all the uncontrolled tupping, up here at least * Morgan nods (Morgan) aye (HH) Can't put a fence in 'is majesty's study tho' * Morgan looks at him before starting to hum peaches and cream * HH thumps him in the arm (HH) Movin' on to the orch'd next? (Morgan) Molly wants to get the house checked over * HH nods. He looks over at her. She's crouched down using a bit of water on a handkerchief to wipe the muck out of the eyes of a lamb (HH) She likes it here on the farm * Morgan nods (Morgan) aye, she does (HH) We all goin', or just the two of you *he smirks* (Morgan) all of us... I've had some unpleasant experiences in that house * HH nods (HH) What do you want doin' with the farm? * Morgan shrugs (Morgan) I don't know yet * HH nods (HH) I'll come back up later, check on the livestock * Morgan nods (Morgan) good idea (HH) Lunch is very basic but the meat is good. Molly doesn't seem even slightly bothered that she's eating the ram whose death she was troubled about earlier. There's no tension between her and Heinzharold, and lunch is peaceful. (HH) Morgan and Molly, Claudia, Heinzharold and eight crewmen walk from the farm across the gardens and to the front of the house. Lots of comments are made about it needing cutting back. The house appears, almost backing onto the forest, just as Morgan remembers. (HH) **Molly takes his hand, and he picks up her thoughts [he died here, and I never would have been his wife at all] ** You are now disconnected (Connection timed out) ------------------------------ Logging started for 192.168.1.82:#7thsea on Friday, 2 July 2021 19:27:37 British Summer Time ------------------------------ ** You have joined #7thsea (Morgan) Lunch is very basic but the meat is good. Molly doesn't seem even slightly bothered that she's eating the ram whose death she was troubled about earlier. There's no tension between her and Heinzharold, and lunch is peaceful. (Morgan) Morgan and Molly, Claudia, Heinzharold and eight crewmen walk from the farm across the gardens and to the front of the house. Lots of comments are made about it needing cutting back. The house appears, almost backing onto the forest, just as Morgan remembers. (Morgan) **Molly takes his hand, and he picks up her thoughts [he died here, and I never would have been his wife at all] * Molly looks at him "Its a _very_ pretty house" (Morgan) Its not bad (Molly) **when they get to it, the door is locked * Morgan bends down to pick it (Molly) **he manages it easily. Claudia gestures $when did you learn that?$ ** You are now disconnected (Connection reset) ------------------------------ Logging started for 192.168.1.82:#7thsea on Friday, 2 July 2021 20:04:36 British Summer Time ------------------------------ ** You have joined #7thsea (Molly) [20:02] (Molly) **he manages it easily. Claudia gestures $when did you learn that?$ (Morgan) $I learned a lot of things in the last year or so$ (Molly) **the others wait for him to lead the way * Morgan moves into the building (Molly) **The hall is like the farm, dusty and cobwebby, but something feels odd * Morgan looks around carefully (Molly) **HH and Claudia come in next, followed by Molly and the eight crewmen. Some of the furniture is in different places since he was here nineteen months ago* (Molly) C: Are we all staying together, or separating into groups? (Morgan) Into groups, get the place checked over faster (Molly) C: what groups do you want? * Morgan looks at Molly (Morgan) any ideas? * Molly smiles (Molly) Heinzharold takes one group upstairs to the left, Claudia up and right, I'll go down and left, you go down and right? * Morgan nods (Morgan) alright (Molly) **she shares the eight crewman out fairly between them, and soon HH, Claudia and the men go up. * Molly gives him a quick smile before taking her men through the door on the left * Morgan heads through the right hand door (Molly) **Morgan goes through into the library, which again he has already seen. There is a piece of paper that was definitely not there when he was there last. There's a quill set beside it, the ink long dried. * Morgan picks it up (Molly) **his men follow in, looking around the dusty book shelves (Molly) **it says: March 1669 ((one month after Morgan was there)) I came home, and the projection machine was gone though the other remains. My Charlotte is gone from me forever. I do not know what happened here whilst I was away, but it matters not. (Molly) I understand that you can look in someone's eyes, and suddenly know that life will be impossible without them. I know that their voice can make your heart miss a beat and their company is all your happiness can ever desire, and that their absence will leave your soul alone, bereft, and lost. (Molly) That was my little Charlotte for me. And I cannot endure another day more without her. * Morgan tucks it in a pocket (Molly) **there's a lot of books and drawers. ((How long does he spend looking?)) (Morgan) ((a few minutes)) (Molly) **nothing really stands out. There are some estate ledgers** * Morgan takes the most recent (Molly) ((Opens it?)) (Morgan) ((yep)) (Molly) **almost three years ago, there is a sudden thick black line underneath the entries, then nothing more * Morgan picks up the others, placing them on the desk (Molly) **it seems that records were meticulously kept, right up until the line * Morgan has a quick look along the bookshelves for anything monster related (Molly) **There's nothing. novels, reference books, classical works, but nothing interesting or uncommon (Morgan) Alright, lets move on (Molly) **they go through into the drawing room. It's nice, very Avalonian and a little old fashioned. Dust. Cobwebs. Furniture. Again, things are in slightly different places, as if the note writer may have moves things around (Molly) Moved* (Molly) **it's quite tidy aside from the dirt. There's still sentimental paintings and possessions, it just seems like the residents lived quite simply** (Morgan) anything of interest? (Molly) Crew: No, my lord (Morgan) lets move on then * Molly and her men are in the dining room when they go in, and she's looking through the sideboard, the men checking the wall panels and under the table * Molly stands, brushing off her hands (Molly) **she addresses Morgan** The dirt started more recently than in the farmhouse, but I would guess there were no servants. (Molly) There's cleaning has been done, but a poor job, a man's job of it. * Morgan nods, handing her the note * Molly reads it, sighing (Molly) Oh dear * Morgan nods (Molly) Do you know who Charlotte is? (Morgan) I'm assuming its the young girl * Molly hands it back, keeping her fingers gently touching his hand (Molly) What young girl? (Morgan) I'm sure I told you about her... playing with the other things here (Molly) Alright. I haven't found anything of interest at all * Morgan nods (Molly) Cleaning shouldn't be too dreadful * Morgan nods * Molly looks at the men "Onwards then" she lets go of Morgan's hand * Morgan nods * Molly opens the next room before stopping not far in the doorway "Oh!" * Morgan moves into the room * Morgan moves into the kitchen (Molly) **it looks big enough to require many staff, yet looks like there's barely any equipment at all (Molly) **he starts to hear music, a familiar piano tune. It's only ever so slightly out of tune* * Morgan frowns, going back into the dining room (Molly) **the door to the left stands open. The room is light and airy as at the far end double doors open onto a garden. In between is a grand piano, and Molly is playing. * Morgan leans against the door jamb * Molly starts to play from the sheet music that's on it (Molly) **its utterly unfamiliar to him (Molly) **the crew are still investigating the room, but with one ear to it. Morgan can see a guitar, flute, and violin on a cupboard, as well as a bookcase full of what is likely sheet music * Molly glances at him, smiling excitedly (Molly) A piano, liebes herz! In a music room that opens on to a garden! * Morgan wanders over, running his fingers over the violins strings (Morgan) Aye... you look rather pleased with it * Molly nods (Molly) Extremely (Molly) This piece... it's handwritten * Morgan nods * Molly continues playing. The violin looks and sounds in good condition, just a little dusty (Morgan) You think it was by the occupants? * Molly shrugs (Molly) Perhaps. Shall I sing the lyrics too? (Morgan) If you wish to blossom (Molly) Would you like to turn my pages? **its her eyes rather than her voice that carries the innuendo* * Morgan plinks the strings of the violin before nodding (Morgan) certainly * Molly waits for him to be ready before starting over, adding the words to the tune * Morgan turns the pages as needed * Molly is blinking back tears by the time she finishes it, smiling at him (Molly) What do you think? (Morgan) I think its beautiful * Molly nods (Molly) Me too * Molly speaks quietly, looking at him (Molly) That is how I feel about you. * Morgan looks surprised * Molly glances over at the crewmen "gentlemen, could you give us a minute please?" They bow briefly before going, shutting the door quietly in their wake. She moves along to give him space to sit (Molly) You dont know this? (Morgan) subconsciously perhaps * Molly nods (Molly) I hope it does not disappoint you (Morgan) Not at all... quite the opposite * Molly blushes, smiling warmly (Molly) I'm good- umm that's good, I am glad * Morgan nods (Morgan) We should continue searching (Molly) When we are finished, I'll play it for you again, if you wish? * Morgan nods (Morgan) please * Molly stands up (Molly) And once we know the house is safe, I'd like to bring Inga up too, she would enjoy it as a duet * Morgan nods (Morgan) as you wish * Molly looks at him a moment, then takes a deep breath (Molly) Alright, let's go * Morgan nods, looking over at the instruments before heading back to the dining room (Molly) **the men are waiting. Its whilst he is in the laundry and Molly in the staff dining room that there is the sound of something smashing upstairs * Morgan looks at the men (Morgan) stay with Molly, keep her safe (Molly) **they chorus yes my lord. This leaves Molly with four guards downstairs * Morgan sets off at a run for the stairs (Molly) **he can hear HH say "that was strange" as he's half way up * Morgan slows a little (Molly) **Claudia says "I'm going to find Morgan" * Morgan raises his voice (Morgan) I'm here (Molly) **theres another smashing noise. Claudia runs to the top of the stairs to gesture $might be a ghost$ (Molly) [Are you alright? Do you need me?] (Morgan) [We're fine for now] * Morgan clears the top step, looking along the hallway (Morgan) Breaking my house? ** You're now known as Claudia (Claudia) Your vases, so far * Morgan frowns (Morgan) well it can pack that shit in (Claudia) Will it listen to you? (Morgan) Does anyone? (Claudia) No * Claudia grins (Morgan) Chances aren't good it will then * Claudia leads him to the master bedroom where two vases are in bits on the floor. (Claudia) **HH and the four crewmen look a bit pale** (Claudia) **the room has no feminine touches, though there is a large portrait of a woman and a girl on the wall. The pose is just like that of Holbeins portrait of Dietlinde and Jana, though they're dark, not blonde (Morgan) This would've been the fathers room * Claudia nods (Claudia) Shaving soap, only men's clothing in the wardrobe. No sign of a wife in the other rooms * Morgan nods (Claudia) HH: there's a little girls room though * Morgan nods (Morgan) Charlotte, I would imagine (Claudia) Apart from this, there's nothing much to see. Seven other rooms. Ones a nursery, 6 guest bedrooms all covered in dust sheets and immaculate (Claudia) $send them down to Molly?$ * Morgan nods slightly at her (Claudia) Heinzharold, take them downstairs, keep an eye on Molly (Claudia) **HH ushers them out, all looking relieved** * Claudia watches some books being knocked off a bookcase by an invisible force (Morgan) Alright, pack that in (Claudia) **another is dropped** (Morgan) I said stop it (Claudia) *and another* * Morgan motions Claudia to follow HeinzHarold (Claudia) You sure? * Morgan nods * Claudia goes * Morgan speaks calmly (Morgan) I understand. I know you're still in pain. ** You're now known as ghost (ghost) *a book drops* (ghost) ((Language?)) (Morgan) ((Avalon)) (ghost) ((How much is he keeping an ear to downstairs?)) (Morgan) ((a fair bit)) (ghost) **the front door openz (Morgan) I want to help you rest (ghost) *another book, gentler* (Morgan) Lets try something... one book knocked off for no, two for yes... you understand? (ghost) *two drop* * Morgan nods, moving and putting the books back on the shelves (Morgan) alright... I want to help you rest... is that what you want? (ghost) Two (Morgan) Do you know what needs to be done for you to rest? (ghost) Two (Morgan) Is the answer in one of the books here? (ghost) One (Morgan) Alright * Morgan puts the books back (ghost) **he can just hear voices downstairs but not words* (Morgan) I'll try to help you, but I need you to not be trying to scare off or injure any of my companions... will you agree to that? (ghost) Two (Morgan) There's another in the tunnels, did you know that? (ghost) Two (Morgan) Do you know who it is? (ghost) Two (Morgan) Is it Charlotte? (ghost) Two (Morgan) Do you want her to be able to rest? (ghost) Two (Morgan) Can you communicate with her? (ghost) Theres two then one (Morgan) Alright, lets try to narrow that down... You know how? (ghost) Two (Morgan) Can you reach her to communicate? (ghost) [Liebes herz?] (ghost) One (Morgan) [Yes?] * Morgan puts the books back (ghost) [We have a problem] (Morgan) Is that why it was yes and no? (Morgan) [what?] (ghost) Two (Morgan) Does the machine in the tunnels have anything to do with keeping you both here? (ghost) [Skeleton, noose, ring of stones around a ring of mushrooms...] (ghost) Two one (Morgan) If it is disabled, would you be at rest? (Morgan) [Get everyone back to the ship] (ghost) Two one (Morgan) Would _one_ of you be at rest? (ghost) [Yes] (ghost) Two (Morgan) Would it be her? (ghost) Two (Morgan) Would you like me to do that? (ghost) One (Morgan) You don't want her to rest? (ghost) **he hears the front door open (ghost) Two * Morgan puts the books back on the shelves (Morgan) Can you open the books? (ghost) One (Morgan) Do you know how _you_ can be at rest? (ghost) Two (Morgan) You want Charlotte to be at rest but not by disabling the machine... correct? (ghost) Two (ghost) Two (ghost) Two (Morgan) Disabling the machine wouldn't let her rest in the proper sense? Correct? (ghost) Two (Morgan) Alright. Are there Sidhe here? (ghost) Two one (Morgan) Have been? (ghost) Two (Morgan) Now? (ghost) One... Two * Morgan puts the books back (Morgan) Will Charlotte listen to me if I try to talk to her? (ghost) [Are you alright?] (ghost) Two (Morgan) Alright. I've got an idea, but it'll take me a little while. I won't disable the machine until we've found out how to let her rest properly. You understand? (ghost) Two (Morgan) [just... chatting with a ghost] (ghost) [Alriiight. Do you need help?] (Morgan) Just to confirm... is there any Sidhe on the island now? (ghost) One * Morgan nods, putting the book back (Morgan) I'm going to start work on my idea for communicating with you better. Is that alright? (ghost) Two (Morgan) Thank you for listening to me... I'll try to help you. * Morgan moves towards the stairs (ghost) Two (ghost) **The house is quiet** * Morgan goes downstairs (ghost) **noone is there * Morgan heads out into the gardens (ghost) **He can see Molly and the others in the distance. Theres now Sorgi and his team too, a good crowd * Morgan heads towards them (ghost) **he catches them up with ease, because both Heinzharold and Claudia are obviously dragging their heels and not happy about it (Morgan) What are you two bellyaching about? ** You're now known as Claudia (Claudia) Didn't expect to be given our marching orders and leaving you in there (Morgan) Necessary (Claudia) **they are heading for the cliff path, not the tunnels * Morgan looks at Claudia, speaking quietly (Morgan) fancy joining me for a walk in the tunnels? Only to assuage your distaste at me going off alone... * Claudia nods (Claudia) Want him too? (Morgan) No, he's not ready for it yet... (Claudia) Molly? (Morgan) Up to her... (Claudia) You'd best tell her then (Claudia) **there's a lot of muttering amongst the crew. Sorgi and Molly are right at the front. She's obviously not realises he's there, because her shoulders are squared and her chin is up * Morgan nods, forging his way through to her ** You're now known as Molly * Molly takes a deep breath and exhales slowly with relief (Molly) You're alright (Morgan) of course. Any problems here? (Molly) No, we're going back to the ship to pool our information with the other search parties before planning further investigations (Morgan) Claudia and I are going to have a wander back through the tunnels, have a chat to a young lady... * Molly nods, looking at him (Molly) What would you have me do? (Morgan) You can go to the ship or come with us, though I doubt you'll find it interesting... * Molly looks serious (Molly) I will do what you command (Morgan) Its your choice my love (Molly) I will take them back to the ship, and see what else has been found * Morgan nods (Morgan) we won't do anything dangerous * Molly glances around, then shrugs, kissing his cheek (Molly) I know (Molly) **HH wolf-whistles** * Morgan looks over (Molly) **HH then says Oww! as Claudia punches him in the arm (Morgan) Keep him occupied will you? * Molly blushes, giggling "Sorry" (Morgan) Don't be, wasn't me got thumped (Molly) I'll set him looking after Varick. I'll see you soon (Morgan) aye my love * Molly nods, continuing at the head of the progress. When HH passes, he says "Like the the Queen Of The Island" (Morgan) technically speaking... I'll see you back onboard (Molly) HH: Yes, my liege ** You're now known as Claudia * Morgan nods, moving away and motioning to Claudia (Claudia) He never shuts up (Morgan) I know (Claudia) **They go back into the tunnels, finding the cold spot at the machine * Morgan takes off his coat, laying it on the floor before taking two bottles of brandy and standing them on the coat (Morgan) Claudia, try not to freak out if this works * Claudia looks at him (Claudia) Give me a bottle of scotch now, just in case * Morgan nods at the crate * Claudia helps herself, opening it and taking a swig before offering it to him * Morgan drinks some, handing it back * Claudia leans against the wall ** You're now known as Ghost (Morgan) Alright then... Charlotte, I know you're here and I'm sure you can understand me... so here's what we're going to do... the bottles stood on my coat... if I ask you a question, you answer yes by knocking two of them over, gently if you can... if its a no, just the one. Do you understand? (Ghost) **both fall down (Ghost) C: fuck me sideways. * Morgan stands them up, putting them about a foot apart (Morgan) excellent. I've been talking to your father, like this. We're going to try to help you. Understand? (Ghost) One * Morgan puts it back. Do you understand we're trying to help? (Ghost) Two * Morgan scratches his nose (Ghost) **Claudia sits on the floor, swigging the scotch (Morgan) Do you understand I was talking to your father? (Ghost) One (Morgan) ok... Can you read and write? (Ghost) Two (Morgan) The man in the house... is he your father? (Ghost) One (Morgan) Do you know who he is? (Ghost) Two (Morgan) I've been talking to him. I thought he was your father, I'm sorry. I need you to agree to not try to scare or hurt any of my companions while we try to help you. Will you agree to that? (Ghost) Two (Morgan) Excellent. Can you go into the house? (Ghost) Two (Morgan) But he cant come down here... (Ghost) One (Morgan) Ok. Would you be willing to go into the house and communicate with him? (Ghost) Two (Morgan) That'll make things easier. Ok, I've got an idea but I need some time to work on it. When I come back to try it, I'll come through here to try to find you, alright? (Ghost) Two (Morgan) If you're not here, I'll go to the house. (Ghost) Two * Morgan switches to Eisen (Morgan) alright, lets go * Ghost gets up ** You're now known as Claudia * Morgan picks up the brandy and puts his coat back on * Claudia drinks more scotch before handing it over again * Morgan drinks some, handing it back (Morgan) its not bad * Claudia nods, starting to walk down the inclined tunnels. She doesn't have much to say for herself until they're in the boathouse (Claudia) That was the weirdest thing I've ever seen * Morgan nods slowly (Morgan) I was thinking the same, and I've dealt with the Nieblungen * Claudia nods (Claudia) I'd best fill you in on why Sorgi came to the house * Morgan nods (Morgan) go on (Claudia) He was on the woods. Everything was going fine, til they found a noose, a skeleton and a stone circle. He decided to find you as they were pretty much done anyway. When he told Molly she got very freaked out * Morgan nods (Morgan) a Sidhe circle (Morgan) thats why we're all going to the ship (Claudia) That's bad news, right? (Morgan) potentially. Means they've been here (Claudia) Did they hang that man? (Morgan) I suspect not... but I could be wrong (Morgan) its not really their style * Claudia nods (Claudia) Pulling wings off flies, but we're the flies, you said * Morgan nods (Claudia) **They get back to the ship without incident. People are milling around and talking, but it's the dining room where Molly has the leader of most of the groups reporting back. Sorgi and James are sat with her at the top of the table (Claudia) Leaders* * Claudia conceals the scotch before taking a seat ** You're now known as Molly * Morgan leans against the jamb, listening * Molly is making briefly notes whilst James explains that the market was empty but tidy, the tavern still has some drink but no money. The church is not damaged and nothing has been taken * Molly nods (Molly) Alright, just our orchard and perimeter teams to come back. Thank you all, go and have a break (Molly) **The room gets quickly vacated until it's just Claudia, Molly, James, Sorgi and Morgan. Both James and Sorgi leave their seats to let Morgan sit with them * Morgan puts the brandy on the table before sitting down (Molly) **Theres a rough map of the woods on the table** * Molly looks at him (Molly) Everything else is much the same as at the farm. Tidy but dusty, personal effects missing. Many of the fishing boats are gone. There's a small grain mill, dairy, and forge that arent on the map * Morgan nods (Molly) I've filled Sorgi and James in about the fair folk and the circle. (Molly) **both men look a little uneasy* * Morgan nods (Molly) So, now what, liebes herz? (Molly) [They're Vaticine... how will they deal with ghosts?] (Morgan) [I don't know] * Morgan looks at the two men (Morgan) Scary things aren't they (Molly) S: They sound like a shower of bastards, m'lord **this is also how Sorgi described the Montaigne on the day Molly was nearly raped* * Morgan nods (Morgan) Not far off (Molly) J: do you think they're here? (Morgan) Not right now (Molly) S: Are we preparing to sail today? We probably have four hours of light, we can easily make the port at Tawstock or Kingston (Morgan) No... I've got a few things to do here (Molly) J: Should we go to bring back the men from the perimeter and orchard teams? (Morgan) How far through should they be by now? * Molly continues with her notes whilst they talk (Molly) S: Expecting them back any time now (Morgan) Then thats already answered that (Molly) S: *he nods* what do you want us doing? (Morgan) You may as well try to get some down time... make sure the ships as it should be, get everyone back and relax for the evening (Molly) S: Yes, m'lord (Molly) **He and James stand. Claudia looks to Morgan* And me? (Morgan) Might need you to watch Varick later (Molly) **Claudia stands too* I'll be around * Morgan nods * Molly watches as they go, then she looks at Morgan when the door is shut (Molly) How are you? * Morgan smiles (Morgan) I'm good * Molly laughs (Molly) Because this is what you're used to * Morgan shrugs (Morgan) Because progress has been made (Molly) It has? (Morgan) Two ghosts, as predicted. I've conversed with them both, after a fashion * Molly looks impressed (Molly) Well done liebling * Morgan shrugs (Morgan) Claudia was... less freaked out than I expected when i took her to speak to Charlotte (Molly) That's good. Perhaps she isn't fully Eisen? *she smirks* (Morgan) Or she'd had so many shocks she was a bit numb to it * Molly nods (Molly) Far more likelt (Molly) What are we to do next? (Morgan) They need to be allowed to rest (Molly) The ghosts? * Morgan nods * Molly nods (Molly) And then we will take Varick to them? (Morgan) I don't know they'll understand him... (Morgan) But I've got an idea * Molly smiles (Molly) Oh good. *She raises an eyebrow* I have something for you (Morgan) oh? * Molly starts to unbutton her shirt (Molly) Mmhmm (Morgan) what would that be? (Molly) Something that will make you smile * Morgan waits * Molly gets the shirt mostly undone, so he can see the soft cream fabric of her stays ((less rigid corset type garment)) (Molly) Are you ready? * Morgan nods * Molly pulls the rolled up sheet music that she's taken from the piano from between her breasts, handing it over (Molly) Just in case we couldn't go back * Morgan nods (Morgan) Don't suppose you've hidden the violin in there as well? * Molly shakes her head "No, not after I cut myself with the broken string at His Grace's house. Sadly, along with sheep shearing, driving carts, and souffles, I cannot play a violin" (Morgan) You cant... * Molly frowns (Molly) You can? (Morgan) a little (Morgan) I'm good with a bow... its the arrows I seem to mess up (Molly) You didn't play it at His Grace's, or say anything when I mentioned having always wanted to be able to? (Morgan) I know * Molly frowns slightly (Molly) Why not? (Morgan) Imagine I desperately wanted to be able to... I don't know, sing soprano... but when I mention it, someone says "oh, well, I can do that" (Morgan) Besides, its been a very long time * Molly suddenly kisses him * Morgan looks surprised * Molly pulls away, blushing. "Sorry" (Morgan) I'm not complaining but... what was that for? (Molly) You. You tender concern for my feelings (Morgan) It should be said, I'm not very good... (Molly) I dont mind * Molly smiles (Molly) You're good at many things, you dont need to be perfect at this (Morgan) I had lessons in a few instruments... I _wanted_ to learn the tin whistle (Molly) But noone would let you because it wasnt noble enough? (Morgan) my father forbade it (Molly) He forbids a lot of things... * Morgan nods (Morgan) he's something of a stick in the mud * Molly smiles playfully (Molly) ... he can't stop you now (Morgan) I've got entirely too much to do to be learning that... (Molly) You have four hours on a Saturday morning in the nest * Molly starts doing up her shirt buttons from the bottom up * Morgan shakes his head (Morgan) I've accepted its not something I'll learn * Molly looks sad (Molly) If I asked you to, because it would please me for you to learn it, would you consider it? (Morgan) I'd consider it * Molly nods (Molly) Then please do so (Morgan) I'll think about it * Molly nods, getting all the buttons done (Molly) Better? (Morgan) Not particularly (Molly) Sadly my mind keeps wandering in ways it shouldn't, and that being indone is only making it worse *she giggles* * Morgan chuckles (Molly) How long do you think we need to wait, and are we going to the house? (Morgan) I need to work something out before we do anything else up there (Molly) Can I be of service? (Morgan) Oh, you'll figure this out easily... (Molly) Oh? *her eyes light up* what is it? (Morgan) The ghost can move books, so he should be able to, say, ring a bell... Split the alphabet up into groups of four or five letters, each numbered one to six if its groups of five, seven if its groups of four... with me so far? * Molly nods (Morgan) So, a to e is in group one... so for one of those letters, the bell rings once... then each of the letters then takes on one to five... so ringing the bell once, then waiting, then three times would be a C... * Molly nods (Molly) I like it (Morgan) add an extra one for a space. It'll be time consuming, but I think it could work (Morgan) but, you're the one more suited to this sort of thing... what do you think? * Molly nods "I think it will. It's a low energy movement so it shouldn't tire them. We need paper and pencils to decode it (Morgan) Certainly less energy than flinging books off a bookshelf (Molly) That's what you were doing upstairs? (Morgan) We were tied to yes no questions, but yea (Molly) I wonder how many bells we can find? One for yes and one for no, separate from the letter bell would speed it up * Morgan nods (Morgan) aye * Molly tilts her head (Molly) Actually, a cotton reel on a string would work. Move it left for no, right for yes (Morgan) Working on that theory you could put all the letters in a circle and have it done that way instead (Molly) That might work too. I'm happy to help with whatever you decide * Morgan nods (Morgan) I'll have a think about it... * Molly nods (Molly) Will we wait til the morning, or go in the dark? (Morgan) Morning I think. Probably take a while to sort out anyway * Molly nods (Molly) If that is your wish. The animals still need to be tended this evening though * Morgan nods (Morgan) thats fine... (Molly) I'm loathe to lose time when we could be doing something useful (Morgan) such as? (Molly) Cleaning the main house or the farm house * Morgan nods (Morgan) if thats what you want, we'll arrange it (Morgan) I got the ghosts to agree to not try to scare or harm any of us * Molly nods (Molly) But we arent sure about the fair folk? (Morgan) There's none there as of about an hour ago... there have been in the past but I don't know how recently * Molly nods (Molly) If you would prefer to have a relaxed evening together, to dance in the ballroom or swim in the sea, I daresay I could be persuaded * Molly smiles (Morgan) I wouldn't complain at a swim * Molly smiles (Molly) We could invite Heinzharold, Inga and Varick *she's clearly teasing hkm* (Morgan) I want to spend some time with Varick * Molly nods (Molly) I need to get changed into something cleaner and nicer smelling anyhow * Morgan nods * Molly stands up (Molly) It will give you some time with Varick, unless you were planning to watch *she giggles* (Morgan) tempting, but no (Molly) **From the corridor, he hears a crewman shout "peaches! We've got peaches!" (Morgan) HeinzHarold _will_ be pleased (Molly) Does he like peaches? (Morgan) ask Inga... * Molly gathers up the papers (Molly) Alright * Molly opens the door, only to be delayed by the crewman telling her that there's peaches, apples and pears up there, but the peaches are at peak ripeness and soft and juicy and ready to eat immediately (Molly) ((Manages to keep a straight face?) * Morgan smirks (Molly) **The crewman offers him a string bag of peaches * Morgan takes it * Molly gets reassurance that the orchard is fine and it will keep growing well. With instructions to send the report from the perimeter group when they arrive, she leads them to the study ** You are now disconnected (Connection timed out)