(Molly) **Morgan was glad he hadn't stopped to eat on the way back to the Torrington Estate from his 12 week absence, because that would have meant him arriving rushed and disheveled tomorrow morning, rather than late Friday night with time to clean up and get a few hour's sleep before facing the terrifying task of asking Molly to be his mistress. (Molly) It wasn't a surprise as he'd finished stabling Xantha to see there were still lights on in the dining room, even though it was approaching one in the morning. That was common for Lady Torrington's gatherings. Molly might be in the house somewhere, though he hopes that she is asleep already. (Molly) The lack of noise is more surprising than the lights, and it makes him open the door quietly. Maybe the maids had forgotten to turn them off. But what he can hear is Catherine and Kurt talking. (Molly) C: I do like the Opera, but I prefer- **She breaks off, spotting Morgan. They are sat holding hands just as he and Molly had back on the anniversary of Dietlinde and Jana's deaths** Welcome back, Morgan **Kurt looks unsurprised to see him, unlike Catherine** Guten Abend, Morgan. (Morgan) I'm surprised to find you up at this hour (Molly) C: Oh, dinner ran late and we did not eat until ten. * Morgan looks pointedly at their hands before looking back at Catherine (Molly) **They drops their hands guiltily* ** You're now known as Catherine (Catherine) You have something to say? (Morgan) It is perhaps unwise to be so intimate in a place so easily observed. (Catherine) Everyone went to bed quite some time ago, even the servants * Morgan smiles slightly (Morgan) I wouldn't trust that to be fact my lady (Catherine) K: *he watches Morgan* Morgan iz right. Even ze servants vatch each other's behaviour (Morgan) aside from that... as much as I like the lieutenant... his standing is not high enough to be a good match for you... (Catherine) I will take that under advisement, thank you. (Morgan) Be assured I am only interested in your safety... (Catherine) I know, thank you. * Morgan nods, glancing at Kurt (Morgan) Unless you need anything, I'm going to get cleaned up (Catherine) K: Eisen vas vell, I hope? (Morgan) as well as it ever is (Catherine) K: But no vorse, and zat must give us hope for ze future, ja? (Catherine) Good night, Morgan * Morgan bows his head to Catherine before heading through the room towards his room (Catherine) **He heads up to his room in the servants quarters, toying with whether to find Molly. But then appearing on her threshold in the middle of the night would make it seem like his request to have her as a mistress was backed by an imminent intention to make love to her, and he doesn't want to approach such a big step just yet. He gets into his room with one of the keys from the big set of estate keys that he feels strange without. (Catherine) **On his bed is one of his shirts, the one he hadn't found to pack. It's neatly folded, and that means someone has been in here despite him taking both keys. * Morgan frowns at them (Catherine) **nothing seems odd about it from a distance * Morgan sets his bag down, picking up his shirt and putting it on his desk (Catherine) **As he does, he notices the shirt smells of Rose Water, as well as something more natural, the smell of her when he has embraced and kissed her, how he imagines she would smell naked in his bed. It doesn't smell like it's just been washed with her perfume in the water, it smells like she's been wearing it against her bare skin. * Morgan frowns (Catherine) **There's a brief thump from somewhere in the servant's quarters, like someone stumbling into or moving furniture* * Morgan heads into the corridor quickly (Catherine) **he cant see anything. * Morgan moves along the hallway, listening (Catherine) **There's nothing but faint snoring until he gets outside Molly's room* (Catherine) **He can hear her voice quietly when he gets near her door** (Catherine) Molly, slurring drunkenly and distractedly: whaaat? (Catherine) Kai: You vant zis. It has been obvious to everyvon for months zat zhere is an attraction between us. Ze tension between us screams of lust. (Catherine) M: What? No it doesssnnnt. What are you…? Stop that! * Morgan throws himself at the door (Catherine) **aside from the bang, it makes no odds (Catherine) K: Just hold still Molly. Vonce it iz in you vill enjoy it * Morgan concentrates a moment before hurling himself at the door by the jamb (Catherine) **nothing happens. This door must be thicker than the others, as well as locked (Catherine) M sounds like she has sobered rapidly: Get off me you bastard! You're hurting me! (Catherine) K: Stop struggling Molly, you vant zis, you have been teasing me for too long and now I vill have you and zat ship. * Morgan draws his pistol, firing at the lock ** You're now known as Molly (Molly) MORGAN?! (Molly) **There's now the sounds of a struggle, and Molly crying. She calls out for Morgan again and again, reminding him of Dietlinde's cries for him during the fire** * Morgan throws himself at the door again, shouting for Kai to face him (Molly) K: **He grunts loudly, meeting a sharp cry of agony from Molly** (Molly) **The door starts to give, whatever barricade starting to slip. Kai is not at all quiet in taking his pleasure from her violently, however Molly's cries are quieter, resigned. * Morgan takes the axe to the door (Molly) **The slapping of flesh to flesh continues, as do Kai's animalistic grunts and groans, but Molly is silent now even as Morgan breaks through the door and into the room. (Molly) **Kai has his head back towards the ceiling, his strokes short and brutal. There are bloody handprints on her pale hips and red stains on her white petticoats as she's held face down into the mattress. * Morgan swings his axe overhead, driving it between Kai's shoulder blades (Molly) **Kai yells in agony at this, collapsing onto the floorboards in a puddle of blood and the timing means his seed is also surging forth from him alongside the blood from his back * Morgan goes to Molly, not touching her (Molly) **Molly hasn't moved, which gives him a view both too intimate and horrendously distressing of the damage Kai has done. There's a great deal of blood, far more than he would expect, even having had the experience of taking Dietlinde's maidenhood. (Morgan) Molly... we're going to get you the doctor... (Molly) **She has her eyes open, her colour is good, and she is breathing regularly, but she doesn't respond to him at all, as if he isnt even there. It's unnerving how she just stares into space as if part of some inner world. * Morgan takes her hand, rubbing it (Morgan) Molly.. * Molly blinks slowly, but says nothing. Her hand stays limp in his (Morgan) I'm here Molly, I need you to speak to me... * Molly doesn't even seem to hear him (Molly) Kai, in Eisen: I will fucking kill you for that! * Morgan looks at him, standing up (Molly) **Kurt arrives at a sprint, sword drawn. He surveys the room, then slams the door shut behind them * Morgan stamps on Kai's exposed scrotum (Molly) **Kai screams, the sensation of his testicles crushing beneath his boot is like standing on medium-rare balls of steak. (Molly) Kurt: Morgan stop! * Morgan glares at Kurt (Morgan) You want to die as well? ** You're now known as Kurt (Kurt) Eisen needs home alive (Kurt) Him* * Morgan wrenches his axe from Kai, brandishing it at Kurt (Morgan) Nothing good comes of this man... (Kurt) **Kai howls with agony** (Kurt) It will prevent civil uprising. We need him. You must sacrifice your vengeance for Eisen. (Morgan) explain how, very _very_ quickly (Kurt) Land annexation if he doesnt have an heir. Murder and worse by the annexing men. Thousands dead. * Morgan throws his axe downwards, severing several of Kai's fingers (Kurt) **Kai's screaming, which never stopped, intensifies. There's banging at the door, and it sounds like Catherine plus servants. * Kurt nods (Kurt) Good... that's it... I will explain more later... we need to patch him up. (Morgan) When he has an heir, I'm going to find him, and remove every inch of skin from his worthless body. You get him to Eisen and _fucking_ keep him there, or the second hand my axe feels will be yours (Kurt) **Kurt picks Kai up, carrying him out. He can hear Catherine screaming at Kurt in the hall * Morgan goes to the door, grabbing one of the staff, instructing them to fetch the doctor (Kurt) **Mary the maid goes. The others, including Catherine, have followed kurt and Kai. The servants chambers are utterly quiet. * Morgan goes to Molly, stroking her hand (Morgan) come on now blossom, talk to me (Kurt) **He accidentally catches his reflection in the wavy edged mirror he had kissed her in front of in September. There's blood splatter on his face and he looks murderous. * Morgan uses his sleeve to wipe at the blood on his face (Kurt) **Molly says nothing at all nor does her hand move. It seems like her traumatised body is here, but her mind has gone. The mirror suddenly explodes and it wakes him with a start. ** You're now known as Molly * Molly is not in physical contact with him at all in their bed on the Rose. * Morgan looks over at her before looking around the room (Molly) **it's pitch black and he can see nothing * Morgan reaches out toward her * Molly is there and warm. She murmurs "hmm?" before placing a hand over his (Molly) ((Distress and desperation please)) (Morgan) ((very high)) (Molly) **The tingling is very close to as bad as in Zweibrucke** * Morgan swears, pulling away and rolling out of bed * Molly rouses (Molly) What? What's happening? * Morgan pulls his clothes on (Morgan) I need to... I'm dangerous, I need to calm down (Molly) Let me use my magic. (Morgan) Quickly... if it doesn't work I need to get out * Molly comes straight to him, putting a hand on his chest. He can feel a tingle there, not her magic, but his. * Morgan tries to hold it in check * Molly concentrates. His neck prickles, his skin tingles on both the inside and outside from both their magics. For a moment, it feels almost like the two forces are in a conflict with each other. (Molly) Shhh... **her magic wins out, washing over him much like the slow tingle of alcohol as she described early. His heart rate settles, the anxious feeling in his body lessens, and the tingling lessons to being mild rather than extreme. * Morgan releases a breath he wasn't aware he'd been holding (Molly) Light, please. * Morgan goes ti light a lantern * Molly pulls a sheet off the bed, wrapping it around her (Molly) Talk to me, please... (Molly) **Its an hour and a half til dawn by his guess, thankfully late enough not to have to sleep** * Morgan rummages to find his flask (Morgan) nightmare... just a nightmare... (Molly) How can I help you? (Morgan) I don't know (Molly) **the flask is where he expects it (Molly) Do you need to be alone? * Morgan opens it, sipping at it (Morgan) No... I'll be alright (Molly) Do you want to talk? (Morgan) I'm not sure (Morgan) You should go back to sleep * Molly shakes her head (Molly) No thank you. Do you wish to put your head here like we did after the cast? *she puts a hand to her breastbone* * Morgan watches her, rubbing his fingers together (Molly) **the tingling is very mild and decreasing** * Morgan nods (Morgan) for a minute... then I need some coffee * Molly gets back on to the bed, half-propped up, and waits with open arms * Morgan crawls up beside her, laying his head on her chest (Molly) I will stay silent if you do not wish me to talk * Molly strokes his hair. Her heart beneath his ear sounds strong and now so familiar * Morgan draws a deep, shuddering breath * Molly holds him a little tighter, voice soft and soothing (Molly) It's alright my love... it's alright... (Morgan) I'm not even sure I can bring myself to tell you about it. (Molly) It's alright liebling... (Molly) You do not have to tell me. I want to comfort you no matter what it is * Molly continues stroking his hair * Morgan is quiet for a few minutes before speaking quietly (Morgan) I'm going to butcher that man (Molly) Alright my love * Molly holds him close. Her heart rate seems to have slowed a little since he first heard it * Morgan SIGHS (Morgan) I need to get some air * Molly sighs too (Molly) Alright liebling, I will let you go... * Morgan climbs off the bed (Morgan) What are you going to do now? (Molly) I don't know * Morgan nods (Morgan) Would you like some coffee? (Molly) No, I am fine. Please, do what you need * Morgan frowns (Morgan) did I hurt you? (Molly) No, you were on the other side of the bed (Morgan) No, I mean... last night * Molly smiles slightly (Molly) I am pleasantly tender * Morgan frowns * Molly tilts her head (Molly) Why are you frowning, my love? (Morgan) I... I had no wish to hurt you (Molly) I know, we were just enthusiastic (Molly) It's nothing to worry over, a little arnica and I will be not even pleasantly tender (Morgan) Does it make me like him? * Molly frowns (Molly) Come here. * Morgan moves to her * Molly pulls him back to the bed, wrapping her arms tight around him (Molly) That was not the same as what Kai did to that poor girl, not at all. * Morgan nods slightly * Molly looks at him (Molly) You are nothing like him. I wanted what we did last night, and I adored every moment of it. * Morgan nods, looking away (Morgan) alright (Molly) No. (Molly) Look at me. * Morgan frowns but does so * Molly looks deadly serious and very obstinate. (Molly) Do not hide from me about this, it is too important. (Molly) Tell me why you looked away, what you thought that made you do so. (Morgan) That I don't completely agree. (Molly) Why? (Morgan) I've never been that... forceful. What if its only a small step to being like... him. (Molly) It is not. Because if I said stop, you could and would stop. * Morgan nods (Molly) Listen to me. I _wanted_ that forcefulness, I _welcome_ it. You have nothing to feel bad for. * Morgan sighs (Morgan) alright * Molly kisses his forehead (Molly) I love you. (Morgan) and I you, completely * Molly nods (Molly) If you need me, let me know and I will find you. I will _always_ find you. * Morgan nods (Morgan) alright * Molly lets him loose (Molly) Be gentle with yourself please. (Morgan) I'll try * Molly nods (Molly) That is all I ask * Morgan nods, getting the rest of his clothes on * Molly starts working the night's tangles from her hair with her fingers, watching him but saying nothing * Morgan heads out of the rooms, going to make coffee before going to sit by the rails, legs dangling off the side of the ship (Molly) **he's only alone for about fifteen minutes before Claudia plonks down beside him ** You're now known as Claudia (Claudia) **its about an hour from dawn, still dark* * Claudia quietly blurts out quietly "I have a problem" * Morgan looks at her (Morgan) what? (Claudia) I slept with Sorgi. (Morgan) You didn't just have sex... (Claudia) No. (Morgan) And now you're freaked out (Claudia) Had a flashback nightmare, went to talk. He was asleep when I got there, and I laid on the bed and we talked. Next thing I knew, I was awake and had been asleep together and we were… *she looks disgusted* snuggling. * Morgan sips his coffee (Morgan) and from me you want... * Claudia looks him taken aback (Claudia) ((How irritated or snappy does he sound?)) (Morgan) ((not at all. Miserable, but not snarky)) (Claudia) Dunno yet. What's wrong? (Morgan) Doesn't matter yet. I don't want to give you the sort of support you don't want, y'know? If you want support, thats what you'll get, if you want advice, you'll get that... but I don't want to piss you off by giving advice you don' want (Claudia) Just talk and I'll pick what I want * Claudia gets out a flask, offering it to him first * Morgan shakes his head, sipping his coffee (Morgan) You're overthinkin' it. * Claudia shrugs, drinking it. It smells like Drambuie (Claudia) It's a big deal that I could stand it (Morgan) Its progress (Claudia) I haven't slept next to anyone since my first week in basic training. I couldn't. * Morgan nods (Morgan) He feels safe to you * Claudia nods (Claudia) Guess so * Morgan nods (Claudia) He even had his arm on me, the weight of it... Anyone else and I would probably stab them * Morgan nods, taking a mouthful of coffee (Morgan) Try not to overthink it. (Claudia) Because it's just that easy. (Morgan) I said try... did you speak with him about his view of your situation? (Claudia) No, told him I would talk to him later. He's got morning watch, he needs to sleep now * Morgan nods (Morgan) I did * Claudia nods (Claudia) What did he say? (Morgan) That he knows how things stand and is happy with that. He's enjoying the time he spends with you until you decide its time to stop or move on, there's no pressure there for more * Claudia nods (Claudia) Good. (Morgan) He's good fer you... not romantically, as such, but for _you_ * Claudia nods (Claudia) He's helping me heal * Morgan nods (Morgan) aye (Claudia) I won't ever be normal, but it turns out I'm not as damaged as I thought * Morgan nods (Morgan) welcome to the club * Claudia smiles a little (Claudia) You ever stood on the precipice of a cliff? (Morgan) figuratively or literally? (Morgan) Yes, in either case... (Claudia) Literally (Claudia) Did you feel an unexplained urge to just step off, just to see what it'd be like? Like there was something seductive about that inevitable destruction? * Morgan nods (Morgan) Not that unexplained in my case, but yes... (Claudia) No, properly unexplained. Not grief or any of that. Just staring at the dangerous thing and feeling the appeal of it knowing the result would be bad * Morgan nods (Morgan) I used to get it in the crows nest... what if I just... let go as I climbed out... (Claudia) That's the one! (Claudia) That's what it feels like this morning looking at the prospect of allowing myself to let Sorgi closer (Morgan) except... its not destruction if you take that step (Claudia) That is how it seems. * Morgan nods (Morgan) p'raps because it might change who y'are... (Claudia) Ugh. Maybe. * Morgan sips his coffee, looking out across the water (Claudia) Seems like a bad idea to me. (Morgan) 's your choice o'course, but I think yer wrong (Claudia) Enough about me. What the hell was going on yesterday evening? (Morgan) whatt? (Claudia) Heinzharold was being the most annoying I have seen him for years, you went AWOL and seemed to come back out of sorts. Molly... well, I can take a guess at what her issue was, but I'm not sure what it was all about. (Morgan) He needed to try to cheer himself up. One of our meetings was... harrowing at best * Claudia nods (Claudia) Makes sense. He becomes particularly annoying when he's like that * Morgan nods (Morgan) its how he deals with it, trying to convince himself he's not affected (Claudia) I think also, he annoys us to distract _us_ from feeling upset. * Morgan nods (Morgan) When I visited Lady Torrington, I had to hand in my keys... what I was there was part of my identity and I was... troubled on the ride back. He tried to irritate me into taking my mind off it * Claudia nods (Claudia) Sounds tough (Morgan) Something of a breeze compared to what came next... anyway, he started singing... nine hundred and ninteynine thousand, nine hundred and ninety nine bottles of beer on the wall... (Claudia) Oh not that shit again. * Morgan nods (Claudia) You know how long it'd take to get to zero? (Morgan) I can tell you its not two hours... (Claudia) Almost one hundred and seventeen days, without breaks for sleep. * Morgan shakes his head (Morgan) why do you know that? (Claudia) Because he worked it out. When he first was on the Nautilus, him and a few others started it as a joke. Heinzharold calculated it. * Morgan sighs, shaking his head again (Claudia) I think he said they were under twenty thousand when she got blown to bits and they all got reassigned. (Morgan) We need to give him something to distract him. I cant be having him doing that today (Claudia) Busy one today? (Claudia) ((Surveyor to Tawstock, Molly wants to see John again, he probably wants to get Pete and James alone to find out more about Molly's breakdown and maybe get the paintings to show her)) (Claudia) ((Also maybe take Molly to see Elsie)) (Morgan) Some... but I'm in a foul mood and can't be dealing with that bullshit (Claudia) Nightmares, or domestic issues? (Morgan) Nightmares (Claudia) No jumping overboard? (Morgan) No. Molly managed to get it under control, but it was close. (Claudia) Practical combination * Morgan nods (Claudia) Same as Zweibrucke? (Morgan) the nightmare? * Claudia nods (Morgan) No * Claudia watches him, then shrugs (Claudia) Not wanting to talk about it? (Morgan) Bit close to home for you I think * Claudia nods (Claudia) Better to talk to Heinzharold instead then * Morgan nods (Morgan) I think he's suffered enough after yesterday. * Claudia nods (Morgan) I might talk to Sorgi (Claudia) He's a good listener (Claudia) Going up the cliff for sunrise? * Morgan nods * Claudia stands, stretching (Morgan) I know you'll tell me to shut up... but I'm proud and pleased for you (Claudia) I want to tell you to shut up, but I don't want to hurt your feelings, so thank you. * Morgan nods, standing up (Morgan) Coffee refill, then we'll get up the cliff * Claudia nods, leading the way. They go about their usual dawn watch as normal, not needing to talk, just companionably silent, even on the walk back down where Roussea and his crew are starting to prepare the Ketch for the trip to the mainland ** Morgan has quit (Quit: Leaving) ** You are now disconnected ------------------------------ Logging started for 192.168.1.82:#7thsea on Tuesday, 10 August 2021 10:33:42 British Summer Time ------------------------------ ** You have joined #7thsea (Molly) **He spots Molly walking in the water's edge when he gets back down, skirts tucked up. The sky is cloudy.** ** You're now known as Claudia (Claudia) You need me on the mainland today? * Morgan looks at her appraisingly (Morgan) you have something you want to do today? (Claudia) No, but if you had a bad day yesterday and are in a bad mood today, you might want me joining you (Morgan) I want you with us, but you might find it difficult * Claudia shrugs (Claudia) I'll manage * Morgan nods * Claudia nods in Molly's direction as the descend (Claudia) Everything alright with you two? * Morgan nods (Morgan) aye (Claudia) Unusual for her to be out this early * Morgan nods (Morgan) Possibly because I woke her up so suddenly * Claudia nods (Claudia) Gonna be over there all day? (Morgan) I would imagine so, aye * Claudia nods (Claudia) **She leaves him when they get to the shingle, jogging on to the dock ** You're now known as Molly * Molly has her boots over her shoulder, laces tied * Morgan approaches her (Morgan) are you alright? (Molly) Hmm? Yes, just thinking * Molly watches him "how are _you_?" * Morgan nods (Morgan) 'm alright * Molly nods, watching the waves a moment (Molly) What is her name? (Morgan) the girl? (Molly) Yes (Morgan) Elsie (Molly) What about her surname? Who are her family? How did she end up there? (Morgan) I don't know... all I do know is that she caught pregnant when she was younger and thrown out, and ended up in the brothel (Molly) I see. * Molly squares her shoulders slightly (Morgan) Whatever happens, I've said I'm going to do my best to find the baby a family and some money to safeguard them (Morgan) Kit's already had her see a doctor, but I want Lady Torrington to know from a trusted source. * Molly nods * Morgan mutters (Morgan) not that its going to matter (Molly) My mind is filled with ideas on that score, but until we have an idea of whether she will survive, none are firm. Why wont it matter? (Morgan) Lady Torrington knowing is only going to affect her wisdom on choosing who she associates with... his fate is sealed, regardless of what she wishes to do. * Molly watches him (Molly) ... once the Order have their succession? (Morgan) They know where the sister is, they can deal with her or have nothing. * Molly blinks a moment (Molly) Kai has a _child_ on the way. (Morgan) That... would rather solve a few issues... (Molly) It is an option, I think (Molly) As for finding a family otherwise... *she looks out over the sea* (Morgan) Her concern is that her child does not end up in a brothel (Molly) They won't. No matter what I have to do, they won't. * Morgan nods (Molly) She would not be in this situation if it were not for me (Morgan) No, she would not be in this situation if he was a man with an ounce of honour * Molly shrugs (Molly) I want to do my best for the child, even if I cannot save its mother * Morgan nods (Morgan) of course * Molly pulls her shawl tighter * Morgan comes to her, wrapping her in his arms (Molly) *she leans into him* I was thinking that perhaps, just for once, my family would do something for me. (Morgan) You want them to take the child? (Molly) I am thinking about it. They have enough children that it would add little to their workload... (Morgan) You want to talk to them about it, or would you like me to? * Molly tilts her head so she can watch him. She looks a little solemn (Molly) If that is what we decide, I need to do so myself (Morgan) as you wish (Molly) It isn't just about the money it is going to cost me to pay off my Father and James, nor the fact that I am giving Peter his inheritance... **she frowns** (Morgan) You thought I thought so? (Molly) No... but that is not what makes me consider having them raise the child. (Morgan) then what is? (Molly) They need to understand that their lack of action to defend me could so easily have seen me living her life. They need to make restitution for it. * Morgan nods (Morgan) I can get behind that (Molly) For once, someone _has to_ be willing to make some sacrifices for _me_. * Morgan nods * Molly frowns (Molly) It isn't too much to ask, is it? (Morgan) no (Molly) I'm giving them what they want, savings, dowries, land. I gave them what they wanted when I was told I was no longer welcome and not to come back. I gave them hiding in barns and pawning my cross for food, and being hungry, and begging for work at Lady Torrington's. I gave them _everything_, because they told me to. * Molly is frowning deeper, and he can feel the deep-seated animosity there (Morgan) I know blossom (Molly) And I am _tired of it_, liebling. I am _tired_ of being taken for granted and being discarded. * Morgan nods (Morgan) Then we will not allow them to any longer * Molly nods, pulling in tighter to him (Molly) One way or another, someone is going to raise that child. Perhaps Kai's sister, perhaps Peter and Beth, or at Catterick or Edward and Mina can be pressed upon, even your parents. That child will not be left behind, because its existence is tied to me too strongly for me to allow it. (Morgan) Edward and Mina would take the child in * Molly nods (Molly) The question is only who, not if. * Morgan nods * Molly inhales deeply (Molly) I am sorry, I am feeling most obstinate this morning. (Morgan) I hadn't noticed * Molly watches him, smiling slightly (Molly) Are you teasing me? (Morgan) A little (Molly) Is it permitted, to tease an Eisen Duchess, do you think? * Morgan shrugs (Morgan) cant say I've ever really bothered with whats permitted or otherwise * Molly smiles (Molly) Very true (Molly) Only what is permitted by your own code of honour bothers you * Morgan nods (Molly) Speaking of being an Eisen Duchess, I need to make an appointment with the Justice Of The Peace to officially document renouncing my citizenship * Morgan nods (Morgan) alright * Molly nods (Molly) It is sad, but necessary. It will feel strange once it is done (Morgan) a bit like my handing over the keys perhaps * Molly gently strokes his back (Molly) It is paining you? * Morgan nods (Molly) I am sorry, liebling. It will take some time to adjust. I think your role as Master-at-arms fulfilled a need for you, and maybe it feels like you have lost a part of yourself again? * Morgan nods (Morgan) indeed * Molly nods (Molly) It is understandable, my love * Morgan nods (Molly) I will help in whatever way I can (Morgan) I know blossom * Molly nods, holding him tight before she loosens her grip (Molly) Are we to see Elsie today? * Morgan nods (Morgan) I want her seen by the doctor before you attempt anything * Molly frowns (Molly) Alright (Morgan) that bothers you? (Molly) More that I was thinking she will have to be examined, as I wss (Molly) Was* (Morgan) I'm afraid so * Molly nods grimly (Molly) I... dont know if I might have to examine her also. (Morgan) We'll just have to wait and see... hopefully you'll be able to get an idea without doing so * Molly nods (Molly) I hope so (Molly) **she watches him* It will take me several hours to see John, but I could write instead, if you would prefer that? (Morgan) No, its fine (Molly) Oh. As you wish... I just thought that after your unease about last night, you may need me close by... * Molly watches his expression closely (Morgan) that would be the ideal, but things need to be done. I will manage * Molly 's chin goes up a little (Molly) Alright * Molly weaves her fingers with his to walk back towards the dock, and it reminds him of how he held her underneath him to the desk like that last night (Molly) Let's have breakfast, it will be time to go soon * Morgan nods (Molly) **On deck, Sorgi is watching the Ketch, but also seems to be waiting for Morgan** (Molly) S: Good morning m'lord, m'lady (Morgan) Sorgi... (Molly) Do you have a moment, m'lord? * Morgan nods (Morgan) I'll catch you up blossom * Molly squeezes Morgan's hand "I'll get you some breakfast, my love" * Molly goes below deck ** You're now known as Sorgi (Sorgi) Claudia said you might want to talk to me about something you can't talk to her about, m'lord * Morgan nods (Morgan) not here * Sorgi nods (Sorgi) My study, or off the ship? (Morgan) Your study will be fine * Sorgi leads the way, grabbing coffee from the dining room on the way and making Morgan at home in the room that was once Molly's study (Sorgi) What can I do for you, m'lord? (Morgan) I had a nightmare... just a nightmare, but I need to talk to someone about it... * Sorgi nods, sipping his coffee (Sorgi) I'm listening (Morgan) Has Claudia told you of colonel Dau? * Sorgi nods (Sorgi) The one who sabotaged the Lusty Wench and blew up The Rose (Morgan) When I was returning from Eisen, his lieutenant escorted a drunk Molly to her bedroom... Dau had been making moves on her, and when he was thwarted, he went into town and brutalised a young woman in a brothel. She's probably going to die giving birth because of the damage he did... last night I dreamed I'd returned the previous evening but Molly was not escorted and Dau... forced himself upon her * Sorgi nods (Sorgi) **he gives Morgan chance to continue** (Morgan) the blood wasn't the worst of it... when I finally got to her she just... wasn't there. * Sorgi nods (Sorgi) **me waits again* (Morgan) I was stopped from killing him... and then I woke * Sorgi looks to see if he looks to be done recounting (Morgan) The girl in the brothel... when he attacked her, had dyed red hair... If Kurt hadn't shown her to her room, that would've been Molly (Sorgi) **he nods** That's a hard thing to witness. * Morgan nods (Sorgi) Lucky that he took her away from this monster. * Morgan nods (Morgan) aye (Sorgi) It was close, but Molly is safe. * Morgan nods (Morgan) Nearly had to throw myself off the ship again * Sorgi nods (Sorgi) I'd be surprised if it hadn't been upsetting * Morgan nods (Sorgi) Will he be punished for it? * Morgan nods very slowly (Sorgi) Nothing can be done for the girl? (Morgan) We're going to find out today. * Sorgi nods (Sorgi) What is it you are struggling with? (Morgan) I needed to get it out... I couldn't tell Claudia... HeinzHarold was shaken enough after meeting the girl yesterday * Sorgi nods (Sorgi) My sister went mute after the soldiers raped her. It's quite common. She got better though (Morgan) Was there ever restitution? (Sorgi) For her personally, no * Morgan nods (Sorgi) Sounds like noone knew what Dau was like (Morgan) sounds like one person did... a fact I will be discussing with him at length * Sorgi nods (Sorgi) Where is Dau at the moment? (Morgan) Not too far... He was in Avebury when we were there... I wouldn't be surprised if he turns up soon (Sorgi) Have you thought about finding him? * Morgan shrugs (Morgan) only most of the time (Sorgi) We could manage here if you need to (Morgan) I'm going to give it a couple of days. THere's things I want in place first (Sorgi) We're staying into next week then, m'lord? (Morgan) I think we'll have to * Sorgi nods (Morgan) There's some things to sort out for the girl, and I'd like to introduce Lady Torrington to Varick * Sorgi nods (Sorgi) The crew are happy enough, and once you have the assessment from Mr Jeffries they can get to work on anything it says you need doing. It's not much different than the waiting they did between battles (Morgan) Less chance of getting killed though (Sorgi) Indeed. I noticed James Schulz didn't go to the brothel. (Morgan) I cant say I'm surprised (Sorgi) I think he was put off by it in Paan * Morgan nods (Morgan) I believe Edward took him to meet a... friend... * Sorgi nods (Sorgi) It's not for everyone * Morgan nods (Sorgi) It's what we did in the War though, wasnt it? It was a bit of an escape from the horror and danger all the time. (Morgan) I cant' say I did... I've spent more than one rainy day sat on the doorstep of a brothel * Sorgi smiles (Sorgi) It's dry inside at least (Morgan) As my brother and friends are constantly reminding me, I'm something of a prude (Sorgi) It's not the worst way to be. I've sat in a few just for a warm fire, drink, and someone to talk to before. Paid for the time too. * Morgan smiles slightly (Morgan) The look of confusion when you ask for tea is worth going for (Sorgi) Next time I'm there supervising the men I will (Sorgi) If I'd known you hated it, I would have gone instead of you with Claudia (Morgan) I don't hate it. Its just not something I indulged in * Sorgi nods (Sorgi) It loses its shine quickly. It's pleasant at the time, but it leaves you feeling hollow and a bit uncomfortable afterwards. Like you've done something wrong. That could be a Vaticine thing though. * Morgan nods (Morgan) possibly (Sorgi) How is Molly today? She seemed troubled at dinner, very formal * Morgan blushes slightly (Morgan) She's fine. She's very upset about this girl... blames herself for what happened to her * Sorgi nods (Sorgi) As you see it that if Molly had been in Dau's way he'd have attacked her instead, she probably sees that if she had then it wouldn't have happened to the girl * Morgan nods (Morgan) aye (Sorgi) All you can do is remind her that the only person who could have stopped Dau was Dau. * Morgan nods (Morgan) and I shall. (Sorgi) Maybe remind yourself of that too, m'lord * Morgan smiles slightly (Morgan) I'll try * Sorgi nods (Sorgi) Come back if you aren't listening to yourself. (Morgan) So you can tell me? (Sorgi) Indeed, m'lord. As many times as you need (Morgan) Thank you Sorgi (Sorgi) You're welcome, m'lord (Morgan) I'd best get some breakfast * Sorgi nods, letting him out (Sorgi) I'll go and hurry Rousseau up (Sorgi) Claudia going with you, m'lord? * Morgan nods * Sorgi inclines his head, going off down the corridor * Morgan heads off to get breakfast (Sorgi) **he's told that Molly took it to the study. In there he finds HH and Varick eating at the desk. ** You're now known as Varick (Varick) Morgan!! * Varick gets down, coming to hug Morgan. Ulysess springs from the couch, scaling Morgan til he's on his shoulders * Morgan hugs the boy (Morgan) Good morning my young friend (Varick) I haven't seen you for daaaaaaaays **This elongation of words seems to have started since he met his cousins* (Morgan) we've been very busy haven't we? * Varick nods (Varick) I have been having fun (Morgan) excellent * Varick sits back down to eat (Varick) Can we go again today? (Varick) **HH gestures: $alright?$ (Morgan) We've got a lot to do today but yes * Varick starts eating (Varick) When they were changing Joseph's nappy he did a wee on his own face. (Morgan) Thats unfortunate (Morgan) $Rough night. you ok?$ (Varick) **HH starts laughing and chokes on his breakfast** (Varick) **Molly and Inga come out of the bedroom, Molly's hair half done. They both look concerned** * Morgan thumps HeinzHarolds back a few times (Varick) **HH continues to cough, but looks to be fine** (Varick) **Inga rolls her eyes** I've told him to concentrate on not laughing and to swallow properly! (Morgan) You'd think he'd have learned to eat by now (Varick) **HH stops coughing, just watching Inga with a huge grin until she's blushing bright red** * Morgan rolls his eyes (Varick) **Molly shakes her head a little** Inga, my hair please. Heinzharold, try not to die, I'd like to get it done before we have to leave. * Varick watches the women go, then whispers "She is _really_ bossy sometimes" * Morgan nods (Morgan) has to be (Varick) **HH starts eating again, slower** $she have another bad nightmare?$ (Morgan) $No. I did though. She's contemplating issues with her family. We're going to see Elsie, going to be a hard day$ (Varick) $Need company?$ (Varick) Will all the children be there? (Morgan) I don't know. Some might be helping on the farm (Morgan) $Claudias coming with us, but I wouldn't complain if you and Inga come to help with Varick$ (Varick) $Good choice, having her along$ (Morgan) $Why?$ (Varick) I would like to help on the farm (Morgan) I was just wondering if you would (Varick) $She's practical and doesnt get affected by that sort o' thing$ * Varick nods (Varick) Maybe I might like to be a farmer when I am a man. (Morgan) You've got to run Koln... (Morgan) $Maybe$ (Varick) I could have some sheep and fields in Koln (Morgan) You could... sheep are stupid though... its like they try to get sick (Varick) **HH finishes his food without incident** $wanna talk about yer night on th' way?$ * Varick shrugs (Varick) I like sheep. And babies. Not when they wee on themselves though. (Morgan) $No. You dealt with enough yesterday, I don't want to burden you with more$ (Morgan) Better than weeing on you (Varick) Has a baby weed on you before? * Morgan nods (Varick) $I'm good$ (Varick) **HH smiles, then frowns a little** (Varick) Has a baby weed on you too? (Morgan) $problem?$ (Varick) **HH nods** quite a lot (Varick) $Just remembrin' when I first tried to put a nappy on Jana and it was too big so it fell straight off$ **He remembers this, it was right before her christening, he'd had to borrow some of Morgan's trousers because his got wee on them. Morgan had threatened to make him go as he was and say he'd done it to himself** * Morgan nods slightly (Varick) When we have babies, will they wee on me? (Varick) **Molly and Inga come out** (Varick) HH: Prob'ly * Varick looks at Molly (Varick) Has a baby ever weed on you? * Varick looks very confused and like she's thinking she misheard (Varick) Molly* * Morgan looks at her (Varick) M, looking at Morgan: I'm sorry, has a baby ever...? (Morgan) He was telling me that Joseph managed to wee on himself yesterday (Varick) **she nods slowly** No, a baby has never weed on me, mauschen. Why would they? (Morgan) My love, you are in for a rude awakening (Varick) **HH smiles, sipping his coffee** (Varick) **she frowns** I will get-... never mind. Put on your boots please, Varick. (Varick) **HH is smirking** * Varick puts his boots on (Varick) HH looks at Molly: Can you translate something for me? * Morgan glances at then Molly before sipping his coffee (Varick) **she tilts her head* That depends on what it is... (Varick) HH: what does ¥Consider having babies close together in age, it makes it practical for your wives to share the breastfeeding¥ mean? (Varick) **Molly's brows raise and she looks at Morgan** Has he asked you already? (Morgan) Worse than that, I was there when Beth said it... (Varick) **Molly bites her lip, trying not to laugh. She looks at HH** She suggested Inga and I had children at the same time so we could nurse each other's babies. (Varick) **HH grins, looking at Morgan, talking too quiet for Varick to hear: How would they know whose apples were whose? (Varick) **Molly giggles, getting her cloak. Inga helps Varick into his coat** * Morgan frowns at him briefly (Morgan) yours would be vain... (Varick) HH: You've seen my face an' hers, our children will be the most gorgeous people on the face o' the planet. (Morgan) and it'll inherit your humility... (Varick) HH: I 'ope they get Inga's. I 'ope yours get Molly's looks and Molly's smarts. (Morgan) Cant really object to that (Varick) HH: 'Spose they could get your sense o' decency and loyalty (Varick) **Molly pauses in doing up her cloak clasp, but says nothing** * Morgan shrugs (Varick) I'm ready now! * Morgan takes a mouthful of coffee before getting up and getting his coat (Varick) **After breakfast, Jeffries is finished surveying the island and ready to go back to Tawstock to write up his findings. They take Claudia, Varick, HH, and Inga with them. It is a smooth sailing and the weather fine. Molly stays near his side, almost protectively. They decide that it makes sense to give time for the doctor to see Elsie, and to go on to Sunnymeade and Goodleigh first. ** You're now known as Molly (Molly) **They're all on horseback when they arrive at Sunnymeade, the decision having to be made about who is going where, specifically him and Heinzharold.** (Molly) I am quite happy to go up to Goodleigh alone, liebling. I have ridden it many times before. (Morgan) No, take Claudia please. (Molly) HH: Sure y' don't want me t' g', as I've met him already? (Molly) Go* (Morgan) alright (Molly) HH grins: Yer heavenly majesty, I, your loyal-hearted knight, will escort thee on thy pilgrimage, and protect thee from any beasties or bandits that may wish to detour us from our quest! * Molly just looks at him a moment, then at Morgan (Molly) Is he going to do this the whole time? (Morgan) Could be worse * Molly raises an eyebrow (Molly) It had best not be (Molly) HH clutches his chest dramatically: 'Lo, how wounded I was that my Queen, she of all that was milk and honey and sweetness, might find me displaying! Oh what sad fate hath I! (Molly) Displeasing* * Molly blushes (Molly) I'll... I'll see you in a while, liebling * Morgan nods (Morgan) alright my love (Molly) [I love you, I will miss you] (Morgan) [and I you] * Molly takes a deep breath "Come along, Sir Talksalot. The roads are long and our King will be most eager for our return" (Molly) **HH looks a bit shocked by this, but then grins even more. He gives Morgan a sitting bow** I will protect our glorious Queen, my liege. I will keep her entertained for all the hours of our journey! (Morgan) I've no doubt... * Molly makes her horse move on, and HH goes with her ** You're now known as Claudia (Claudia) I hope she smacks him * Claudia watches Inga and Varick ride up the driveway (Claudia) **The children are in the garden, the mothers watching them. He finds out that Peter and James are working in the fields, clearing one of them that's been fallowed ready for next year of growing. It's a long hard job, and one Morgan has done before in Avebury. It would give him a good chance to talk, alongside change to settle his own mind through hard work. * Morgan arranges for Inga and Claudia to help watch the children before heading off to find Peter and James (Claudia) **It is out past the tenant farms and the wheat field. There's a lot to do. The men are shirtless, because even though the day is not hot, the work of scything is. They are at the far end of the field ** You're now known as Peter ** logs has quit (Read error: Connection reset by peer) ** logs has joined #7thsea (Peter) [15:20] (Claudia) **It is out past the tenant farms and the wheat field. There's a lot to do. The men are shirtless, because even though the day is not hot, the work of scything is. They are at the far end of the field * Morgan heads over to Peter * Peter rests the scythe on his shoulder (Peter) Good morning * Morgan nods to him (Morgan) Got another scythe?\ * Peter and James look surprised but they point him to one * Morgan takes it up, starting to work (Morgan) I need more information about Molly * Peter and James start working again. It quickly gets warm (Peter) What do you need to know? (Morgan) signs... what indicators I need to watch for that Molly's going to shut down like when she was little... (Peter) It's a long time ago, I'd need to think a bit about how it went (Peter) **They're both quiet and working for a while before James says** I think the nightmares were first. (Morgan) bad? * Peter nods (Peter) Soon as she'd slept a quarter hour, she'd be screaming (Morgan) she say what about? (Peter) Drowning, usually * Morgan nods (Peter) **the sun starts to come out. James hands round a flask of water, sweat dripping off him * Peter takes a drink (Peter) After a couple of days, she couldn't sleep she was scared of the nightmares. Then they gave her the sedatives. (Morgan) which didn't work... (Peter) J: Even when we snuck them into her in drinks, because of the trouble of getting her to take them. That was as bad as the screaming. Her crying because she didn't want to take them, Mama crying and begging her... **he offers the flask to Morgan again* * Morgan drinks some before handing it back * Peter picks the scythe up (Peter) I remember her saying one day that she didn't want the sedatives because they wouldn't stop her nightmares, they would just stop her waking up. So she would feel like she was drowning for hours, trapped. * Morgan nods (Peter) J: I'd forgotten about that * Peter nods (Peter) **James gets back to work too* (Peter) The delusions came next, so about three weeks after Cess died. Some of it was thinking Cess was still there, or that she could hear her playing upstairs. Some of it was just weird and creepy. (Peter) J: The little men... do you remember that? (Morgan) tell me about them (Peter) Didn't make much sense. She would say that the little men were watching her, or watching the farm. (Morgan) she says what for? (Peter) She didn't know. That's why they scared her. She would also think the house was full of spiders or snakes, sometimes birds, and she'd spend hours making us "get rid of them" * Morgan nods (Morgan) Must've been difficult for you (Peter) Aye. Tiring, and worrying. **There's another lull whilst they contemplate, long grass and weeds being felled. It reminds him of Avebury and the monotony of his work there and how peaceful it could be just to _do_ and not _remember_. ** You are now disconnected ------------------------------ Logging started for 192.168.1.82:#7thsea on Tuesday, 10 August 2021 16:13:47 British Summer Time ------------------------------ ** You have joined #7thsea ** You're now known as Peter (Peter) [16:12] (Peter) Aye. Tiring, and worrying. **There's another lull whilst they contemplate, long grass and weeds being felled. It reminds him of Avebury and the monotony of his work there and how peaceful it could be just to _do_ and not _remember_. (Peter) J: Think it was about two months since her death that Molly stopped talking to us. It was really sudden, over a day or two. (Morgan) Stopped completely? * Peter nods "To us at least, at first. She'd still talk now and then to her imaginary friends, like she was having conversations. (Morgan) There were many of them? (Peter) Two I think. The man and the girl. (Morgan) got any names? (Peter) J: No. We weren't allowed to talk about them, even before Cess drowned. Mama said it was ungodly and Papa said people would think she was a godless heathen. (Morgan) These imaginary friends were before Cess died? (Peter) They'd always been there. Even when she was a baby she would sometimes look at something that wasnt there and babble back and forth with it (Peter) **The images of Jana doing similar comes to mind, and him saying to her "Who are you talking to, little miss, hmm?" comes to mind, very clearly** * Morgan frowns a moment (Peter) J: Babies do that though, mine all did * Morgan nods slightly * Peter shakes his head "not for as long as Molly. She could go on for half an hour like it. Most babies stop within a minute or too. (Peter) **More scything and silence, more sunshine** (Morgan) And then one day she just stopped being quiet? (Peter) No, it got worse before that (Morgan) how? (Peter) J: Next she stopped talking to them too. She was either awake and staring into space as if we weren't there, or she was sleeping fifteen minutes then screaming (Peter) This was when Papa went over to Dorchester and brought back a doctor. He wanted someone who wouldn't start gossip here. (Morgan) and he said? (Peter) That the grief had started the nightmares which started the insomnia, and that lack of sleep had overwhelmed her mind and it had broken. He said it was unlikely Molly would ever recover, and Papa should consider an institution (Peter) J: *he looks up* I didn't know that last bit * Peter shrugs " I only do because I heard Mama praying about it one night" (Morgan) and then what? (Peter) About a week after that, I was guarding her as we had to, when she suddenly said "I understand. Goodbye". And then she slept for about four or five days. (Morgan) and that was the end of it? (Peter) J: That was almost as strange as the rest of it. She was just like a normal child when she woke up. Talking, laughing. A bit more reserved and less of a daredevil, a lot less wilful. * Morgan nods (Peter) We kept expecting her to relapse, but she didn't. She would sleep normally. The imaginary friends were never mentioned again. The only thing was that if she got really upset, she would go very quiet and not want to talk, and if she could she would run off * Morgan nods (Morgan) I see (Peter) J: That's why Molly's hidey hole is in the hayloft, the deal was she was only allowed to hide there, but noone was allowed to go to her. Sometimes we would call up, if it had been hours, and she'd push some hay down just to say she was there and to leave her alone. * Morgan nods (Peter) Once she'd been better about a month, Mama started inviting Eliza over. Her parents farm is just down the road, they were less than a year apart. I think Mama thought she'd be good for Molly. (Morgan) seems she was * Peter nods "nice girl. Such a shame" (Morgan) What do you believe happened the day you lost Cess? * Peter shrugs (Peter) They were probably playing by the pond and somehow Cess ended up in there. I always had a gut feeling that the doll had fallen in then Cess had, but Molly never said * Morgan nods (Morgan) Something like... I understand Varick found the doll * Peter nods (Peter) I had no idea we still had it. I could have sworn Papa said he was going to burn it, but maybe he decided not to * Morgan nods (Peter) J: I thought he had burnt it. He came in that evening looking like he'd cried a bit (Morgan) He told me he had burned it (Peter) But he obviously didn't (Morgan) Where is it now? (Peter) Out in the furthest field, in the far corner where the hedges meet * Morgan nods (Morgan) Did Cess have any put name for Molly? * Peter smiles (Peter) Yes, but it's really silly (Morgan) try me (Peter) Lady Mollinda (Peter) J: *he laughs* I'd forgotten that too (Morgan) nothing else? Iss... something? * Peter thinks hard (Peter) No, sorry. But you have to remember I was sixteen when Cess died, James was twelve. Neither of us really spent much time with Moll or Cess, we were working * Morgan nods (Peter) We're worried about her too. But if it's like before, it'll happen quite slowly. * Morgan nods (Peter) J: I wish there was a way to make her never remember any of it. Some magic or something. (Morgan) Maybe there is... I don't know she'd want it though * Peter shrugs (Peter) She has a happy life now. Would it be worth knowing, if the cost is losing everything else? * Morgan shrugs (Morgan) Thats not for us to say, is it (Peter) I wouldn't want to know? Would you, James? (Peter) **James shakes his head** God no. I could live with forgetting it all myself, watching Father carry Cess's coffin like the others. no, I'd prefer not to. * Peter stretches, putting the scythe on his shoulder again "Even seeing Father do it all those times does not prepare you for when it's your turn and you're carrying your own" (Morgan) No.. * Peter looks at Morgan (Peter) How long ago? (Morgan) Three years (Peter) Same for us. Three years yesterday. ((That was the 30th)) (Morgan) I know (Peter) Molly told you? Papa refused to let her go to funeral, she was too upset and he thought it was risky, so they made her stay home. (Morgan) No... I dropped by yesterday to have a rummage in the loft after I heard about the doll, and look at Molly's things. I was talking to Beth about it, since there's only a nine day gap... * Peter nods (Peter) I'm sorry for your loss. How old was your...? (Morgan) wife and daughter... Eighteen months... (Peter) At the same time? * Morgan nods * Peter nods (Peter) Much worse. I don't think I'd have gotten through it without Beth and the older children. No other children? * Morgan shakes his head (Peter) **Both men nod. There's nothing to say to provide comfort, not for either of them. So they scythe, and doing something feels better than doing nothing** (Peter) Beth is normally out scything with us. (Morgan) She balances it on her bump? (Peter) She's not always pregnant... (Peter) J: She's pregnant quite a lot though. * Peter nods "True. It's part of being a Forrester woman" (Morgan) Dont look at me, we've got far too much to do yet (Peter) You've been married three months now? We thought maybe you just hadn't had the quickening yet ((generally the point of announcing, first movements so 4-5 months)) (Morgan) Empire to build first... (Peter) **they both chuckle** (Peter) J: Where is Fireball anyway? (Morgan) gone to see John Dagget. He's asked her to be Katheleens god mother * Peter nods (Peter) There's a long history there (Peter) J: Levi passing wasn't long after she and John got engaged, was it? Mama and Papa were still getting congratulations from the funeral guests. * Peter thinks (Peter) End of June '67 they got engaged. They were supposed to get married at the end of June '68 (Morgan) rough * Peter nods (Peter) It happens so often that people just want to look for something positive * Morgan nods (Morgan) and they want to fill the awkward silence * Peter nods (Peter) J: Have you met John? (Morgan) Once. It was not a friendly meeting * Peter looks surprised (Peter) He's a good man. We've known him a long time, Goodleigh is so close we often helped with harvest up there and him down here (Morgan) I objected to the way he treated Molly. At the time I had started caring greatly for her, which was difficult enough in itself, and then he came along trying to downplay an event that still hurts her now. (Peter) John loved her though * Morgan stands the butt of the scythe on the ground (Morgan) And yet he cast her aside to save face. * Peter sighs (Peter) Of all of us, John was the one that held out hope the longest. He caved in in the end to Papa and Sir Daggett. Our reputations were on the line and Father would have lost out on being made a gentleman. (Morgan) Then he should have lost out (Morgan) He'd have come to be known as the man who trusted his daughter and was proven right... (Peter) She couldn't have married a Lord if Papa wasn't a gentleman * Morgan watches him (Morgan) Her fathers position held no sway on our ability to marry (Peter) A noble cannot marry a commoner (Morgan) We are not going to agree, but rest assured, we would have married regardless of your fathers social climbing at the expense of his daughter * Peter doesn't look at all impressed by this, but James says " Let's not argue. Mistakes were made that none of us should have made, but it's turned out for the best. She's happier with you than she would have been with John, and if she hadn't had to leave she would have married him." (Morgan) You've got a lot to do to make things right. I hope you appreciate that * Peter and James both nod (Peter) **They spend a bit longer scything silently before Morgan decides to take a shovel up to the farthest field of Sunnymeade's land.James gives him instructions. It's a solitary field at the end of a long path, one that David bought not long ago, with other farmer's lands in between. There's more sheep in it and they eye him warily. It's very warm, as the odd weather of Avalon will sometimes do even as late as October. * Morgan starts digging (Peter) **the far corner of the field looks like it has all been turned over, making it hard to pinpoint where to dig for the doll. (Peter) **the ground is soft enough ((how long does he spend digging before he gives up?)) (Morgan) ((half hour)) (Peter) **A goat comes over, udders swaying, and bleats at him (Morgan) No, I don't have any feed (Peter) **She moves closer, leaning against his leg * Morgan pats the goat (Peter) **she seems to like it * Morgan spends a few minutes just patting the goat, not thinking about anything (Peter) **The goat stays where she is, with contented bleats now and then (Peter) **As he's coming back from the field a bit later to check if Molly has returned, he sees the older children (Varick, and the siblings William, Petey, and Lila) sat on the grass at the side of the farm house. They're all sat very still, close together, the younger two holding hands. The children look pleased to see him, Varick is wearing Molly's shawl which she had taken with her** ** You're now known as Molly (Molly) William: Molly said we all had to sit here until our Papas came, and anyone who came in the kitchen was getting no cake. (Morgan) I see... being a bit boisterous were you? (Molly) **They look at each other guiltily but remain close-lipped. He can feel that Molly is very cross** (Morgan) Right, well, best you do as you're told then (Molly) **None of them move* * Morgan nods briefly before heading inside (Molly) **Molly is stood was squared shoulders and her chin up, facing Caroline, who has a wooden spoon in her hand. The tension is high. Molly speaks firmly, Eisen hints stronger in her accent** (Molly) … I could not care less what you normally do! I did not give you permission, andt if you _ever_ raise a vooden spoon to MY tSon again, I will ensure you needt a tsurgeon before you make your next appel crumble. Do you understandt me, Caroline? (Molly) **The other woman looks troubled but retaliates** I will tell my husband you threatened me, and he will take it up with yours. You will regret it. /me smiles cooly "I pity you if you are tso afraid of your husband zat you would think mine would be heavy-handted with me. You may tell who you please, but I vould advise you zat my husband learning that you scared his tson will endt badly for you. (Molly) C: They were naughty and disobedient! We always use the spoon on the back of the legs. It stings but it doesn't harm them, it just corrects them! (Molly) That is not ze point. The four of you may do vat you choose, for _your_ children. My child is not to be subjected to it. My husband andt I vill discipline him if andt how _we_ choose to. You vill _not_ touch or scare our tSon. * Morgan pushes a cup onto the floor * Molly and Caro both jump. Caro looks worried, Molly just looks serious. (Morgan) I've heard quite enough (Molly) C: You need to know what they did. * Morgan speaks quietly (Morgan) You will not raise a hand to my son again. He has dealt with a great deal of abusive in his short life and I've no doubt this will effect him for days. If you wish to have your husband face me for my wife's statement, that is your choice and I await that decision, though I'd rather it not come to that. (Molly) C: They did something dangerous! They were supposed to be playing hide and seek, supervised by Inga and your friend, in two groups to be safe. William and Varick told each woman they were with the other, got Petey and Lila to lie for them and distract the adults so that they could sneak up to the pond and try to climb in over the fence! (Molly) ((Attention?)) (Morgan) ((both of them)) (Molly) **Molly shudders slightly but says nothing. Caro looks more upset than angry** (Morgan) And you rushed out there and hit them with a spoon while they were doing just that? (Molly) C: Lila told us when the boys came back. They got scared of the height at the top of the fence and came back, but... (Morgan) So your hitting them did not in fact stop them... correct? (Molly) She hasn't actually hit Varick, I heard Lila crying and sent them out. But he could see what was going to happen. (Molly) C: No * Morgan nods (Morgan) Consider this, Caroline... what you're doing after the fact is teaching them what happens _if_ they get caught... so they just need to be better at getting away with it. (Molly) C: In _Avalon_ we correct children. Maybe that is not the same in Eisen. (Molly) **There's a cheer of "Papa!" from outside (Morgan) That is not correcting them... its teaching them not to get caught. (Morgan) and in Eisen, I would hang anyone who dared touch my child. (Molly) **Caro looks shocked* But I didn't! (Molly) [Do you need me?] (Morgan) [Go get some air] * Molly just walks out (Morgan) For which I am grateful... ** You're now known as Caro (Caro) I am sorry. It's just how we've always done it, it's what Martha and David did too, I didn't know it wasn't something you and Molly did too. (Morgan) I don't raise my hand to either of them. There is no need in the end. A shock, certainly, such as dropping a cup on the floor diverts the behaviour, and taking the time to explain why its dangerous, for example... * Caro nods (Caro) Maybe it's a different upbringing. It's what the Holy Book says. (Morgan) It says 'hit your children if they're naughty'? (Caro) Proverbs 13:24 "He that spareth his rod hateth his son: but he that loveth him chasteneth him betimes." (Caro) **she's right, by the church of Avalon holy book, but the Objectionist one translates to "If you love your children, you will correct them; if you don't love them, you won't correct them." (Morgan) The book of my faith reads that as if you love your children, you will correct them... if you don't love them, you will not... * Caro nods (Caro) Does it say "A husband must love and discipline his wife as he ought to his child, for submission to her husband and him to his God is righteous? (Caro) **The equivalent passage is "And so train the young women to love their husbands and children, to be self-controlled, pure, working at home, kind, and submissive to their own husbands, that the word of God may not be reviled." * Morgan closes his eyes for a moment (Morgan) And so train the young women to love their husbands and children, to be self-controlled, pure, working at home, kind, and submissive to their own husbands, that the word of God may not be reviled. (Caro) Your religion and ways are different to ours. (Morgan) Sound fairly similar to me (Caro) **Peter comes in, shirt plastered to him** Who did what, Caro? * Caro takes this moment to start picking up the broken cup. Peter looks at Morgan "Do you know?" * Morgan nods (Caro) P: And? (Morgan) The boys tried to climb the fence to the pond (Caro) P: William knows they aren't allowed up there (Morgan) your point? (Caro) P: what the hell were they playing at? (Morgan) I don't know yet, I've not had chance to find out (Caro) P: Molly is asking them. (Caro) Is that wise, considering...? * Morgan shakes his head, walking outside ** You're now known as Molly * Molly is sat on the grass beside Varick. The other children are playing nearby. Varick looks on edge. * Morgan sits down opposite Molly (Molly) **James comes down towards the house, still obviously clueless** (Molly) **Varick moves on to Morgan's lap, and Molly watches them both a moment** (Molly) Varick was about to tell me what happened * Morgan hugs the boy to him (Morgan) Are you alright little man? (Molly) **he nods** I did a bad thing (Morgan) I know... * Morgan looks at Molly (Molly) *he nods again* (Morgan) would you go and tell James whats happened and make peace with Caroline please * Molly frowns slightly but stands up "Yes liebes herz" (Molly) **He hears HH and Claudia laughing, moving in their direction** (Morgan) Varick, I think we need to talk about things, dont we? ** You're now known as Varick * Varick gets up, checking Molly has gone before sitting back in Morgans lap (Varick) **HH and Claudia get into sight, him with one of the identical twins on his shoulders. Both of them take one look at Morgan before gesturing "what's wrong?" (Morgan) $Long story. Go keep Molly and others distracted while I talk to Varick$ (Varick) **HH and Claudia continue on. That leaves only Morgan and Varick on the lawn** (Varick) There's a ghost. (Morgan) Alright. Who? (Varick) She's called Cecily * Morgan frowns (Morgan) She told you where to find the doll? (Varick) Yes (Morgan) Why were you climbing over the fence? (Varick) She's lonely and wants us to play with her (Morgan) You can't Varick, its dangerous. Thats why the fence is there (Varick) But she's _lonely_. Like I am for children. * Morgan sighs (Morgan) I understand, but that pond is why she's a ghost... (Varick) Did she drown? * Morgan nods (Varick) She wants to give Molly the doll back (Morgan) Why? (Varick) Because it is Molly's doll, and she took it and she's sorry (Morgan) David burned the doll when Cecily drowned... (Varick) Did he? * Morgan nods (Morgan) thats what he said (Varick) I can't understand her a lot, I only know a little bit of Avalonian (Varick) Can we go and talk to her? * Morgan nods (Morgan) aye, alright * Varick gets up. He starts to walk towards the pond (Varick) Will you hit me with the spoon? * Morgan takes his hand, walking with him (Morgan) of course not (Varick) Lady Eldreich used to tell my guv'ness to hit me with a ruler sometimes, but we used to just pretend she had. (Morgan) Good, because hitting you is wrong (Varick) It's bad to hit someone, even if you're really cross * Morgan nods (Morgan) yes it is (Varick) Will you lock me in a cupboard? (Morgan) Never, just like I promised * Varick nods (Varick) Will you tell me no cake? (Morgan) You understand that sometimes you need to have consequences to your actions? * Varick nods sadly (Varick) Yes sir (Morgan) We'll see what happens about the cake... * Varick nods. They continue on to the pond (Varick) Can we go inside? (Morgan) inside the fence? (Varick) Yes. Not in the water. (Morgan) why? (Varick) It's just easier to hear her there * Morgan nods, looking back towards the house (Morgan) aye, ok (Varick) **There's no clear view of the kitchen door, but he can faintly hear laughter. The lock will have to be picked* * Morgan nods before picking the lock (Varick) Whoa! I want to learn to do that! (Morgan) one day (Varick) **Inaide it's just like in her dream, only a bit more overgrown. He can almost see her dead face down in his minds eye, the water making her hair dark red (Varick) &are you here?... okay.& * Varick looks to Morgan (Varick) She's here. What do you want to ask her? (Morgan) How does the doll still exist? * Varick concentrates, repeating the sounds slowly in Avalonian (Varick) I st-oh-le it (Morgan) I see... How can I help you rest? (Varick) Give Molly the doll (Morgan) That could harm Molly (Varick) I know. W-ay-ted so long. (Morgan) Too dangerous (Varick) Lonely (Morgan) I know (Varick) W-ay-t more? (Morgan) I don't want to harm Molly (Varick) No (Morgan) She doesn't remember (Varick) No. She was too sad. (Morgan) If she remember she could be that sad again (Varick) Yes. But S-t-rong-er now. (Morgan) strong enough? (Varick) H-ope so. Don't know. * Morgan sighs (Morgan) Did she speak to you after the accident? (Varick) No (Morgan) Who did she tell she understands? (Varick) Eee-maj-in-air-ee friends (Morgan) Who were they? (Varick) The Man and The Girl (Morgan) No names? (Varick) No (Varick) **Iselilija* (Morgan) Do you know what Iselilija is? (Varick) A nickname (Morgan) for Molly? (Varick) Yes * Morgan nods, sighing (Varick) **Varick speaks to Morgan** is that bad? (Morgan) I don't know * Varick mediums again (Varick) Just a silly nickname * Morgan nods (Morgan) alright (Varick) You t-ay-ke the doll * Morgan nods (Morgan) I need to find it (Varick) **Varick starts walking towards the water** * Morgan grabs him (Varick) It's in the r-eee-ds (Morgan) Peter buried it yesterday... (Varick) T-oo-k it (Morgan) Alright, tell me where, I'll get it (Varick) **Varick gives hotter/colder instructions until Morgan gets it * Morgan tucks it away in his coat (Varick) When you give it to her I can go (Morgan) You'll know even if we're not here? (Varick) Yes * Morgan nods (Morgan) if I think she won't be harmed, I'll do it, but not until then (Varick) One day. P-r-om-iss (Morgan) if I think she won't be harmed, I'll do it, I promise (Varick) No. One day. (Morgan) Even if it harms her? (Varick) Stay here forever alone? * Morgan sighs (Morgan) I'll do what I can (Varick) Yes (Varick) There was s-um-th-ing in the pond (Morgan) It grabbed you? (Varick) Yes. Pulled me down. * Morgan nods (Morgan) know what it was? (Varick) No (Varick) Maybe a m-on-st-er (Morgan) its gone now? (Varick) Yes. When I d-ie-d (Morgan) Did it want Molly? (Varick) I don't know * Morgan nods (Morgan) alright (Varick) [where are you, my love?] (Varick) Molly didn't push me. (Morgan) I know. (Morgan) [talking with Varick. we'll be back soon] (Varick) She was fun, not m-ee-n * Morgan nods (Varick) [Lunch is ready, but we will need to go to see Elsie soon] (Morgan) They were worried you two were playing rough and you got knocked in, but I know thats not right (Varick) No. Played r-uff a lot. Not then. * Morgan nods (Morgan) We have to go (Varick) Love her. Love Mama, Papa, James, Peter and fa-mil-ees (Morgan) I know you do. They love you too (Varick) Okay. Bye. * Morgan leads Varick out of the area, locking the gate as they pass through it * Varick looks to Morgan (Varick) She had to go. It's tiring talking to normal people. (Morgan) aye, I know (Varick) We have to hide the doll? (Morgan) We will do, yes. (Varick) Where is good to hide? * Varick is obviously thinking hard about this (Morgan) It can stay where it is at the moment... I'm sure I can find somewhere to hide it when we get back to the island (Varick) Or inside Claudia's mattress. Noone would dare ever to look there! * Morgan nods (Morgan) thats not far from what I was thinking... (Morgan) We need to talk about what you did * Varick sighs (Varick) Dangerous. Could have drowned. William could have drowned. Could have fallen and broken our necks. Could have got cut on a stone and all our blood come out. * Morgan stops him, looking at him (Morgan) you _lied_ to them (Varick) They wouldn't let me go if I told the truth. Sometimes you have to not tell the truth to help someone. * Morgan shakes his head (Morgan) No... thats not acceptable (Varick) It was bad to lie, even if I thought the reason was good. * Morgan nods slowly (Varick) So I have to say sorry. (Morgan) You're going to say sorry for lying and that you understand it was dangerous... but we can't tell Molly _why_ you did it (Varick) Dont understand (Morgan) When Cecily died, Molly suffered very badly... it made her so sad she stopped even talking to people. She doesn't remember it now so we can't tell her in case it makes her that sad again... (Varick) Like when your last wife died and you stopped talking to people? (Morgan) even worse (Varick) Okay. So we cant call her than nickname? (Varick) That* (Morgan) no (Varick) And we cant tell her about the doll? (Morgan) no (Varick) And we cant tell her about Cecily? (Morgan) no (Varick) But we can say I wanted to go to the pond because we weren't allowed and it sounded exciting? (Morgan) is that true? (Varick) No. But at Die Dauerhaftigkeit you said "sometimes the person you tell the truth to would not be able to accept the whole truth, or be pained by it..." (Varick) Then it's okay to not tell the truth now. * Morgan sighs (Morgan) then the whole truth is not what they get but we do not lie (Varick) I am trying! Am just a small boy! * Varick looks frustrated (Morgan) I know, and you've got a lot for me to teach you yet, but you're doing so very well with what you already know (Varick) It's not fair! (Morgan) No, it isn't. But its important that when I say something, there is no doubt as to whether or not I am lying. (Varick) You are keeping secrets, and I have to keep secrets, but only the way you want me to keep secrets and I dont like it! **he stamps his feet crossly, a temper tantrum on the horizon** * Morgan drops to the grass, cross legged * Varick just looks at him, frowning deeply with his arms crossed (Varick) I am cross with you. (Morgan) I can tell. Tell me what you need to fix it (Varick) Dont know. * Morgan nods, opening his arms (Morgan) come here * Varick looks like he wont for a moment then does * Morgan wraps his arms around the boy (Morgan) I love you to the ends of the sea... I'm sorry I'm asking you to do this * Varick moans with exasperation (Varick) I am too young for all of this... horseshit! (Morgan) language... (Varick) Claudia and Heinzharold say it. (Morgan) They're grownups, and they're going to get a slap for saying it around you (Varick) You cant slap Claudia, she's a girl... sort of. (Morgan) and she'll beat me up... look, how about this... if they ask, you say you wanted to play inside the fence with William... thats true isn't it? (Varick) Yesssss... (Morgan) then its not a lie... (Varick) But isnt it already lying if we are saying it to make someone not know the real story? We are trying to trick her (Morgan) You're a bit young to know about lying by omission... it isn't the whole truth, but it isn't a lie... (Varick) But it's the same thing. You tell someone something so they dont find out what you dont want them to know. That's why it makes me cross. (Morgan) I know. Its hard when its someone you love, someone you would normally tell. * Varick nods (Varick) What if you tell her that and I don't talk at all. * Morgan nods (Morgan) if you prefer * Varick nods (Morgan) Alright. But you still need to say sorry (Varick) I will say sorry (Varick) Morgan? (Morgan) yes? (Varick) Even though I was cross with you, I still loved you (Morgan) I know... and I still loved you and always will (Varick) Can anyone see us from the house? * Morgan leans to look (Varick) **they're out of sight* (Morgan) No, no-one can * Varick crawls into his lap, sucking his thumb, and starts to cry * Morgan rocks him gently (Morgan) its alright... * Varick nods. He only cries for about half a minute before he relaxes (Varick) Morgan? (Morgan) yes? (Varick) Can we have some food now? (Morgan) Aye, lunch is ready * Varick inhales deeply but theres nothing to smell (Varick) How do you know? (Morgan) I'll tell you later * Varick nods, getting up. He holds Morgan's hand the rest of the way (Varick) Morgan? (Morgan) yes? (Varick) What is horseshit? (Morgan) When Claudia and HeinzHarold use it, they mean nonsense (Morgan) please don't use that word anymore (Varick) Even when I am a man? (Morgan) Well, its not very polite so you'd only use it at certain times (Varick) Alright (Morgan) can I ask you something? (Varick) Alright, but I might not know the answer (Morgan) Do you like calling me my name, or would you prefer to use something else? * Varick shrugs (Varick) Its a good name. I could call you Your Majesty if you want though? * Morgan chuckles (Morgan) No, I'd rather not (Varick) Okay. What about *he tries to remember* My Liege? (Varick) **They can hear the others in the back garden** (Morgan) No... HeinzHarold calls me that to make fun of me (Varick) What about Mon Petit Chou? (Morgan) No, thats like a nickname that only Molly uses (Varick) What does it mean? I dont speak foreign (Varick) **They get around the side of the house** (Morgan) its Montaigne... I'd tell you what it means but you'll laugh at me (Varick) I dont mind (Morgan) I do (Varick) If I try really hard? * Morgan sighs (Morgan) it means... my little cabbage * Varick 's face stays completely straight, except for a minor twitch by his left eye. He doesnt even smile. (Morgan) I'm impressed * Varick nods. Then he says (Varick) IneedtoseeMollynowbye * Varick runs off * Morgan sighs folliowing him * Varick almost bowls her over where she's sat on the grass. He's talking to her rapidly and she's nodding. She looks slightly serious. HH catches his eye $instructions?$ (Morgan) $None so far. Any issues?$ (Varick) **Molly hugs Varick tight, closing her eyes a moment. The other adults are scattered around sat in the grass and eating picnic style** (Varick) $All smoothly resolved$ (Morgan) $Thank you$ * Varick jumps off her, going to get some food (Varick) [I need to talk to you, privately. I thought it could wait but it cannot] (Morgan) [Alright] ** You're now known as Molly * Molly stands up, coming to him (Molly) Hayloft, if that is alright? * Morgan nods * Molly looks to him (Molly) Do you need to tell Heinzharold and Claudia not to let him out of their sights, and where we will be? * Morgan checks to see if either are looking in his direction (Molly) **Claudia is** (Morgan) $Molly needs to talk. Keep a close eye on Varick$ (Molly) $Alright$ * Morgan nods briefly (Morgan) come on then * Molly takes his hand, walking around the house to the hayloft (Molly) Shall we start with something else til we get there? (Morgan) If you like (Molly) Heinzharold did his loyal knight thing most of the way there * Morgan nods (Morgan) sounds about right (Molly) We didn't stay long, John and I just walked around the old lanes by the farm, but Kathleen got hungry very quickly and we had to go back to the wet nurse. * Morgan nods (Molly) Is that normal, or do I need to check her? It seems excessive to me (Morgan) how old is she? (Molly) Eight weeks (Morgan) completely normal. They have very small tummies, so they have a little often (Molly) But every hour?! How are you supposed to do anything else? * Morgan smiles (Morgan) That is how it is * Molly nods (Molly) Alright. He's no different today, but I think he is relieved I have agreed. * Morgan nods (Molly) We talked a little today about the old days. (Morgan) oh? (Molly) I had not realised that he rose down from Goodleigh most days to ask to see me for more than a month. Then when they kicked me out and I was staying in the lodging house, they refused to tell him where I was. * Morgan nods (Molly) I feel sorry for him. He was weak, and buckled under the pressure of my father and his own. * Morgan nods (Morgan) Its disgusting * Molly nods (Molly) We were too young to be pushed around like that * Morgan nods (Molly) I asked him about you attending the Christening, he says he is fine with it, and wishes to just move on from what happened that day. He had told Eliza a few days later, and she had rung a tirade over his head, and they moved on. * Morgan nods (Morgan) if that is what you both wish (Molly) Yes please (Morgan) very well (Molly) It will be Saturday * Morgan nods (Molly) Do you need me to reassure you about he and I? (Morgan) No. * Molly nods (Molly) And about last night? * Morgan shakes his head (Molly) **They get to the barn without incident and she climbs the ladder as she has thousands of time before** * Morgan follows her up * Molly takes him down into the hidey hole (Molly) The first thing... I had another memory. * Morgan frowns slightly (Morgan) alright (Molly) Cess and I getting hit with the spoon. I don't know what for, but I remember the sound and the pain. I thought I was never in trouble as a child, and yet I clearly was * Morgan nods slightly (Molly) I am not worried. As Caro said, that is just normal here. And really, there is so much going on that I am not sure I am of a mind to keep digging at it. * Morgan nods (Molly) So... the urgent thing... (Morgan) Go on * Molly takes a deep breath, exhaling slowly, obviously tense (Molly) It could be quite painful, but it is important. * Morgan nods (Molly) Varick has asked me to talk to you. * Morgan frowns (Morgan) right... (Molly) When they were sat out as I instructed, waiting for their Papas… You had spoken to them and told them to stay sat there. *she checks his expression* * Morgan nods (Molly) When I went out, Peter had been there and William, Petey and Lila were up playing.. *she checks again* * Morgan frowns (Morgan) yes... (Molly) Varick was still sat down. He told me he didn't know what he was supposed to do... * Morgan starts scowling (Morgan) go on (Molly) He asked me if I thought you would be comfortable with him calling you (Avalonian)Papa(/Avalonian), like William calls his stepfather, even though he isn't his birth father. I said I could speak to you, because _I_ do not know whether Jana called you that, or Vati, or something else. Varick wanted me to make sure he wouldn't hurt you or take something special from you. I was going to ask tonight, but when he came back he said it had to be now. * Molly watches him nervously (Morgan) I see (Molly) I will break it gently to him, if that is what you wish. He will understand. (Morgan) I'll talk to him * Molly nods slowly (Molly) Perhaps you would talk to _me_? * Morgan settles down, trying to get comfortable * Molly moves so that instead of being sat opposite him she is beside him with her head on his chest, taking away the pressure of eye contact (Morgan) it occurred to me that we call him our son but he calls us by name... he's said before he's already got a daddy I asked if there's something he'd like to call me instead of my name... He suggested your majesty or my liege... (Morgan) I figured it either wasn't important or he didn't understand, and he wanted food so.. I left it (Molly) No... it is important. (Morgan) he gave no indication that he was actually thinking about it (Molly) He was thinking of you, trying to take care of you. It became so urgent because he did not want to get it wrong (Morgan) I thought he needed to come and talk about you calling me a cabbage... (Molly) No, he didn't even mention that * Morgan nods (Molly) He was confused sat on the grass because he was told to stay _until_ his Papa came. You came, but told him to stay there. So he did, because although he had seen his Papa, he wasnt sure it counted. (Morgan) I told him to stay there because I didn't want to contradict you (Molly) Which you only would have been, if you were not his Papa. Do you see his logic? You made him stay because you do not think of yourself as his Papa * Morgan nods (Morgan) Then I need to divest him of that illusion (Molly) **he can feel her smile against his chest, but her voice doesn't reveal it** (Molly) I know it is complicated... (Morgan) No, it isn't (Molly) Isnt it? (Morgan) no (Molly) You did not teach her to say it in Avalonian as well as Eisen? (Morgan) No, only Eisen * Morgan sighs (Morgan) I suppose I never considered leaving Eisen again at that point, so it wasn't needed * Molly nods (Molly) That is understandable, my love. That part of your heritage was only likely to be prominent upon visiting Catterick, or your uncle visiting Sudlachenburg * Morgan nods (Molly) I have wondered ever since the day you proposed and said you hoped for children one day how to be careful and gentle in having your next child with you (Morgan) Its not going to be easy, I'm sure, but I will not withhold any love from them (Molly) Oh liebes herz I know you wont. I never, _ever_ thought you would * Morgan nods (Morgan) and he is no different in that (Molly) I do not think you would be able to hold back, even if you wished. It is not in your nature to ration out your love, or love mildly. I admit, I has taken me far too long to accept that in regards to myself, but I never considered it with children. * Molly listens to his heartbeat and the gentle cooing of the doves nested under the eaves (Morgan) We need to go back to him before he thinks I've reacted badly * Molly nods, sitting up (Molly) I'll follow along in a minute, if that is alright? (Morgan) You are upset at something? * Molly watches him a moment, like she is weighing something up (Molly) No... * Morgan watches her (Morgan) don't lie to me (Molly) I will probably have a little cry about it all (Morgan) why? (Molly) Because my heart hurts for you, liebling. For your loss, and for moving on, and for having Varick and the risk of it, and for how bittersweet it will be when there are more babies and the memories * Morgan kisses her forehead (Morgan) If you need to (Molly) I could likely fill a glass with all the tears I have cried for you these last eighteen months *she smiles gently* * Morgan nods * Molly kisses his lips briefly (Molly) Go on, I'll be back soon * Morgan nods, shuffling out of the hayloft * Molly watches him go until he is out of sight (Molly) **he can feel that although still penetratable, the barrier between her mind and his is just a little firmer than before * Morgan sighs and heads back to the rest of them ** Morgan has quit (Quit: Leaving) ** You are now disconnected ------------------------------ Logging started for 192.168.1.82:#7thsea on Wednesday, 11 August 2021 10:34:24 British Summer Time ------------------------------ ** You have joined #7thsea (Molly) **Varick is playing with the other children when he gets there, it appears to be tag. Pete is sat beside Beth who has been given cushions to prop back on, a hand on her belly. James is sat with Caro as she nurses their baby. HH and Claudia are arm wrestling lying on their stomachs and laughing. (Molly) **Inga is rocking Mary who is asleep with her little grass-stained feet hanging from beneath her dress. It's a happy gathering, though a little strange to think that Molly is not here enjoying it but sat in her quiet place crying on his behalf. (Molly) **HH gestures $She okay?$ ** You're now known as Varick (Morgan) $will be$ (Varick) HH $need one of us to be with her?$ (Morgan) $No, she's having a cry for me. Maybe send Inga$ (Varick) $Again? Okay. I'll give it ten minutes $ (Morgan) $I'll explain in a bit$ (Varick) **HH nods slightly. Claudia slams his fist of the ground with a grin.** (Varick) **The game the children are playing requires those who are tagged to stand still. When that is Varick, he stands in moving, watching Morgan a little warily * Morgan wanders over to him, kneeling down (Morgan) do you think I could take you away from the game for a minute? * Varick nods (Varick) They won't mind, they play without me all the time * Morgan nods (Morgan) come on then * Varick puts his hands in his pockets, just like Edward often does (Varick) We could go in the vegetable garden, there's normally butterflies. I like butterflies. * Morgan nods (Morgan) thats a good idea, I like butterflies * Varick glances at him (Varick) Do you know what the white ones are called? (Varick) **The vegetable garden is right next to the normal garden and growing well (Morgan) Jeff? * Varick shakes his head (Morgan) Alberto? (Varick) Cabbage whites... _cabbage_ whites. *he giggles* * Morgan raises an eyebrow (Morgan) how can they tell who they're talking to? * Varick spots a butterfly. He leans near it a moment (Varick) By smell. Like dogs. (Morgan) Good, that'd be confusing... hey, cabbage... no, not you, that cabbage... * Varick giggles (Varick) No, the _little_ cabbage! * Morgan laughs * Varick looks at the leaves of the plants, sometimes turning them over (Morgan) Molly talked to me... * Varick nods a little (Varick) Are you sad now? (Morgan) No, I'm not * Varick nods again, picking a snail off a lettuce leaf (Varick) Okay (Morgan) I'm sorry I didn't understand when I came back... I thought Molly wanted you all to wait there, I didn't realise you were all waiting for your papa's so you could play again * Varick nods (Varick) Sit there until your Papas come. Was confusing, because there was only me and other others who only have one Papa. (Varick) The* * Morgan nods (Morgan) I can see why its confusing (Varick) I was thinking that means Molly thinks you're my Papa. And then I thought that I think that too, but I didn't have the right word. * Morgan nods (Varick) Then William asked why I stayed when my Papa had come. He said Peter is his Papa, but not his Father. So you could be my Papa, just not my Daddy. But only if it wouldn't make you sad. (Morgan) so you've chosen the way they say it? * Varick thinks about it (Varick) Its Avalon, and you're Avalonian a bit. Molly says it to Herr Forrester, and the children say it. *he's holding back a little* * Morgan nods, sitting down cross legged * Varick does too (Morgan) is that what you'd like to use? (Varick) Children normally do what their mothers do, so I thought our babies would call you Papa, and I want to be the same. * Morgan nods (Morgan) I'd like that * Varick smiles broadly (Varick) You would? (Morgan) very much (Varick) It won't make you sad for her? (Morgan) I dont want you thinking you will be less loved because I miss her... you calling me that doesn't take away anything from her. * Varick nods (Varick) Never had to share with a sibling before. Don't know how it works. * Morgan nods (Morgan) its difficult to explain... ah, I know... cake. My love isn't like one cake that has to be shared with everyone.... I have a cake for you, a cake for Molly, a cake for Jana, a cake for Dietlinde... does that make sense? * Varick nods (Varick) That is a lot of cakes. (Morgan) I think... it sounds a little too formal... maybe like... * Morgan says papa with a different emphasis * Varick repeats it back * Morgan nods (Varick) I get it. It's like the difference between when someone says "My Lord", and when Captain Sorgi says "m'lord" * Morgan nods (Morgan) exactly (Varick) I like that. Papa... it sounds good. * Morgan nods * Varick hugs him * Morgan holds him (Varick) I have a cake for you too papa, a biiiiiiiig cake. (Morgan) I'm very glad about that (Varick) I have cake for my Daddy too. It's like a memory cake, like when you eat a reeeeeally good cake that is very nice, but you can't eat it again because it's all gone. But you always remember how good that cake was. * Morgan nods * Varick lets go (Varick) papa? (Morgan) yes? (Varick) Do you think I can call Molly Mama? (Morgan) would you like me to ask her? I'm sure she'd love it though * Varick shrugs (Varick) She can't miss Jana, so it won't make her sad * Morgan nods (Morgan) I suppose not (Varick) Can't miss someone you never met (Morgan) that makes sense * Varick nods (Varick) Did you want me to call you papa? * Morgan nods (Morgan) I'd like that very much (Varick) I meant before today, before Molly told us to wait for our papas. * Morgan tilts his head (Morgan) I'm not sure... I don't know that I was ready (Varick) Why? (Morgan) Its difficult to explain but... you know when you get used to something, its difficult and worrying when you change it? * Varick nods (Varick) Like when I had to go from Koln to Innesbruck, from Innesbruck to Sudlachenburg, from Sudlachenburg to the ship, the ship to the Eisenfursts house, the house to the ship... * Morgan nods (Morgan) a bit, aye... (Varick) But not _all_ like that ? (Varick) **a red admiral comes to rest on Varick's knee (Morgan) No, I suppose it is... you got used to being on the ship, it was safe and where you belong, then you had to go somewhere else... * Varick nods (Varick) But now I feel safe on the ship, because it is our home and where we belong * Morgan nods (Morgan) that makes sense (Varick) You didn't feel you belonged as my papa yet? (Morgan) I didn't feel ready to stop just being Jana's... (Varick) **Another butterfly settles on Varick** (Varick) Why do you now? * Morgan shrugs (Morgan) I don't know... I just... do * Varick nods (Varick) Okay (Varick) So now you can be mine and Jana's papa but we just can't see her until heaven? * Morgan nods (Varick) But then we can see her and cuddle her? * Morgan nods (Morgan) Not for a long time though (Varick) I will like that. I like babies * Varick watches him (Morgan) me too.. couldn't eat a whole one though * Varick giggles (Varick) I wouldn't eat a baby! (Morgan) too chewy? (Varick) They might wee on me. (Morgan) Thats true (Varick) **A butterfly lands on Varick's nose, and he goes cross-eyed to look at it** (Varick) Butterflies like me (Morgan) I've noticed * Varick concentrates, and the butterfly moves, landing on Morgan's nose * Morgan goes cross eyed at it * Varick starts giggling (Varick) **they spend a few more minutes here before Morgan tells him it will be time to go, and Varick wants one last game with the children. Molly is laid on the grass when he gets back and laid asleep on her is Mary. Molly doesn't notice Morgan to start with, chatting to Inga. HH is sat with them, and gestures to Morgan $need me to take Mary from her?$ * Morgan takes a deep breath before shaking his head (Varick) **HH watches him but nods slightly** ** You're now known as Molly * Morgan settles down next to Molly * Molly turns to him, looking a little awkward (Molly) Are you well? * Morgan nods (Morgan) you? * Molly nods (Molly) I am (Molly) **HH $want us to bugger off?$ (Morgan) $No$ (Molly) Is Varick alright? (Morgan) Does he look alright? * Molly looks over, smiling (Molly) He looks very happy * Morgan nods (Molly) [Do you wish to talk about it later?] (Morgan) [No need. Its all sorted] * Molly smiles up at the clouds (Molly) [I am glad] * Morgan looks around at the others (Morgan) looks like everyones getting on again * Molly nods (Molly) It was simply resolved. I should have told them, they should have asked. Just a miscommunication of intent. * Morgan nods (Morgan) aye (Molly) William and the others have been told the pond is off-limits. There are lots of interesting things to do and see on the farm rather than the stinky old pond * Morgan nods * Molly tilts her head, smiling slightly (Molly) An unusual turn of phrase from a Duchess. * Morgan nods (Morgan) tis rather (Molly) I don't often feel much like a Duchess (Morgan) no? (Molly) No. I mostly just feel myself (Molly) ((Attention?)) (Morgan) ((generally around)) (Molly) **It's clearly not an innuendo, but HH is smirking** (Morgan) $You're a child$ (Molly) $no, _you're_ a child, so there.$ * Morgan sticks his tongue out at HeinzHarold * Molly spots this, smiling (Molly) HH laughs (Molly) **Mary stirs a little, and Molly starts to stroke her back and sing Kosk Yn Ta to her quietly. HH watches her, then looks at Morgan's expression* (Molly) HH: **he doesn't speak or gesture, just trying to check Morgan** * Morgan frowns slightly, looking towards Varick (Molly) **Varick is frozen in the tag game, but his eyes move as if watching something moving towards Molly and Morgan** * Morgan watches him (Molly) **His gaze moves closer, closer. Morgan starts to feel that same cold out-of-placeness that he did stood with HH in Molly's old room yesterday (Molly) HH gestures $feel that?$ * Morgan nods slightly (Molly) **Varick leaves the game, coming to sit on Morgan's lap. Molly is still singing * Morgan speaks quietly to Varick (Morgan) what can you see? (Molly) **he whispers in Morgans ear* Cess (Morgan) She wants to be near Moll? (Molly) **He nods* she likes the song (Molly) ((Attention?)) (Morgan) ((HeinzHarold)) (Molly) **HH is watching him and Varick** * Morgan leans sideways slightly, making sure the doll is still in its pocket (Molly) **it is** (Morgan) Do you think she means any harm? (Molly) V: no (Morgan) $Lot to explain. Its the sister$ (Molly) **a lock of Molly's moves off her forehead as if pushed by the breeze. Except there's no breeze* (Molly) $orders?$ (Morgan) $Try to ignore it. She means no harm$ * Molly frowns briefly, then shrugs it off, still singing (Molly) $ignore ghosts. Where was yer majesty born again?$ *he grins* (Molly) V: *he just watches* (Morgan) $What can you do about it?$ * Morgan speaks to Varick quietly (Morgan) did you want me to ask Molly about what you want to call her? (Molly) V: *he nods* (Molly) HH: Do you rent 'er out to sing people to sleep at night? * Molly blushes a little but still sings (Morgan) alright, do you want to go and play and I'll ask? * Morgan looks at HeinzHarold (Morgan) I thought you did your own singing... (Molly) V: you can ask later, its okay (Molly) HH: Not as nice as tha' * Molly glances at HH with a smile before looking to Morgan (Molly) [It's Husband Privileges, being sung to sleep] (Morgan) Sorry, husband privileges (Molly) *HH sighs dramatically* (Molly) **Peter and James come over, looking at Morgan** P: We are going back to scything, did you want to join us? **he stops being able to feel Cecily's presence when Molly stops singing** (Morgan) If I wont be intruding... (Molly) P: No, it'd be helpful (Molly) HH $what are you going to do?$ (Morgan) $Scything the field. Coming?$ (Molly) $definitely$ (Morgan) if you'll excuse us blossom? * Molly nods (Molly) Unfortunately we cannot stay too long as we have things to do in town, unless you wish to find lodgings for the night? * Morgan looks torn (Morgan) half an hour or so and we should be alright ti still get back to the ship (Molly) [I can deal with all the arrangements if it would help you to stay longer out there. I was expecting to be back on the mainland tomorrow anyway] (Molly) P: You could have our room here, Beth and I can sleep in the hayloft (Morgan) [I want to be sure we deal with Elsie, and I don't want to be a danger to your family] (Molly) [It is important we see Elsie, but there will be plenty of lodgings in town] (Morgan) [alright] * Molly sits up carefully with Mary, looking for someone to hand her to so she can stand. She doesnt even glance at Morgan (Molly) Thank you Peter, but town will be more practical for what I need to get done (Molly) *he nods** Very well. *he looks at Morgan** Ready? * Morgan nods, getting up * Molly looks at Peter (Molly) Take your daughter so I can get up (Molly) P: *he does so, inadvertently waking her* * Molly looks to Morgan (Molly) I will ride down to Town and make some arrangements. I'll send the Ketch back to the island and have them return tomorrow (Morgan) alright my love (Molly) C$Am I babysitting then?$ (Morgan) $babysitting?$ (Molly) $With Inga. Watching Varick$ (Morgan) $Want to come and scythe the field?$ (Molly) $upwind, yes$ (Morgan) $Go with Molly if you prefer$ (Molly) $no$ (Morgan) $Is there a problem?$ (Molly) **She assures him there isn't. With Tawstock only two miles, he knows he will be able to sense Molly's direction and feelings if he needs to. They separate, so that HH, Claudia, Peter, James and he get extra scythes and go up to the field. With his brother in law's he gets no chance to talk to his friends privately* (Molly) *The work is nice and hard and repetitive, just as he likes. His mind is able to go pleasantly blank. However, about half an hour after he left, he suddenly picks up a breakthrough thought of Molly's. She is thinking of him shirtless and sheathed in sweat in that field in Avebury, scythe on his shoulder and watching her with curious admiration* * Morgan moves slightly further away from the others to continue working (Molly) **she then must cross out of the thought range, because it abruptly stops* * Morgan frowns briefly before continuing his work (Molly) **he guesses an hour has passed before her thoughts come back again. They've made good progress on the field, and he kept his distance on the off-chance, which is lucky because what overspills this time is (Molly) [I curl my hand around him, enclosing him lightly. He moans loudly, rocking his hips slowly until he's repeatedly stroking within my fist. I softly with a hint of surprise "Oh yes, I like that!" I tightens her grip, though the cotton in the way makes it challenging.] (Molly) Say* (Molly) Tighten my* (Morgan) [Nearly back then?] (Molly) [Oh. My. God.] (Molly) **he can sense her embarrassment with a hint of amusement** (Morgan) [probably just as well Claudia didn't accompany you, I would imagine you're quite red about now] (Molly) [I certainly feel very warm...] (Morgan) [thought so] (Molly) **His scythe hits a rock, making a clang. Claudia looks over at him, gesturing $you alright?$ (Morgan) $fine. just a rock$ (Molly) **she goes back to work** (Molly) [It must be warm there too... are you also quite red?] (Morgan) [I would think so] (Molly) [From your work, of course *he can hear the teasing tone*] (Morgan) [oh of course] (Molly) [I shall leave you to your task and return to my daydreaming then, mon petit chou] (Morgan) [alright blossom] (Molly) **he doesn't pick anymore, and he is able to work without interruption until the five of them have cleared the field. Peter surveys it, lighting up a cigar much as his father would, and offers them around. ** You're now known as Peter (Peter) Excellent work, thank you all. * Morgan nods (Peter) **James takes a cigar, the others don't. The scythes are collected, and they walk back down. Claudia hangs back a little, and a shirtless HH falls in beside her** ** You're now known as Claudia * Claudia looks disparagingly at HH "You stink." (Claudia) HH grins: The smell o' honest work. You stink too. * Claudia snorts "horeshit. Sweaty women do not stink like sweaty men. (Morgan) While I think of it... any chance you pair can stop swearing around my son? (Claudia) HH frowns: Didnt think we 'ad (Claudia) We are careful (Morgan) Funny, he used that very phrase at me today... (Claudia) Varick said Horseshit? * Morgan nods (Claudia) HH looks serious: Sorry, must 'ave been there when we didn' realise. * Morgan nods (Claudia) We will be more careful (Morgan) thank you (Claudia) **There's a moment of quiet before Claudia says to Morgan** You stink too (Claudia) **HH snorts** Charming (!) (Morgan) of course I do * Morgan moves discretely downwind of her (Claudia) HH: she stinks too * Morgan shrugs (Morgan) she's not the freshest daisy right now, no * Claudia huffs (Claudia) Let's get cleaned up. (Claudia) **After a wash in scented water and borrowed shirts, they get mounted up, saying goodbyes. Peter and James thank them for help with the field. It must be around four now by the sun. They're about a minute out of Sunnymeade when Heinzharold sings "nine hundred and ninety six thousand nine hundred and ninety nine bottles of beer on the wall…" * Morgan sighs, shaking his head (Claudia) **Varick in front of Morgan joins in with him, and then Inga and Molly do likewise. Claudia just rolls her eyes (Claudia) **They decide to drop Inga and Varick at the lodging house on the dock, because HH and Claudia both want to go with Molly and Morgan. Molly stands outside a moment, just looking up at the building, which is old but passable. ** You're now known as Molly (Molly) **Most wouldn't notice how she squares her shoulders a little, but Morgan does. (Morgan) [are you alright?] (Molly) [I will be fine.] (Morgan) [alright. are you ready?] * Molly takes a deep breath (Molly) [Yes] * Morgan nods, turning to Claudia and HeinzHarold (Morgan) you want to wait out here? (Molly) **HH kisses Inga before letting her go, and he and Claudia wait (Molly) [14:34] (Claudia) **They decide to drop Inga and Varick at the lodging house on the dock, because HH and Claudia both want to go with Molly and Morgan. Molly stands outside a moment, just looking up at the building, which is old but passable. * Morgan watches her (Morgan) [this is the place you boarded?] (Molly) [Yes] (Morgan) [Want me to deal with it?] (Molly) [No I have sent a note already. I dont think I stumbled here wanting a lodging house... I think I wanted to get on a ship... to sail away] (Morgan) [No, I'm not surprised] (Molly) **Varick tugs Morgan's trouser leg** Are we going in now? (Morgan) aye, come on * Molly takes a deep breath, leading the way. She's sent a note asking for specific rooms, and thrown her title behind it so that the staff are extremely servile and nothing is too much trouble. There's four rooms, two are joined. They seem to be the best in the lodging house. * Morgan holds Molly's hand * Molly squeezes it, standing on one of the joined rooms. (Molly) (Av)This is where my doctor and his wife and daughter stayed. Next door, where Claudia will stay, that's where I nearly died.(/av) * Morgan nods * Molly nods to herself (Molly) Do you want to see? (Morgan) Do you want me to? * Molly nods (Morgan) alright * Molly leads him into the hall and into the next room. It's a single room, quite basic, and utterly innocuous. * Molly tucks herself under his arm, hers around his waist (Molly) I've not been here since. * Morgan pulls her close (Morgan) I'm not surprised * Molly stretches onto tiptoes to kiss him, but before she manages to, Varick calls "papa?" (Morgan) in here * Molly smiles warmly, eyes crinkling with it (Molly) V: we thought you might have gone (Morgan) No, not yet * Molly lets go of Morgan and hugs Varick (Molly) We will be in a moment. Be good for Inga please. [Spilling over: Noone, is ever, ever going to treat you like they treated me, I will destroy anyone who tries] (Molly) **He assures her he will, then trots back into the main rooms. Molly watches him go, moving back to hug Morgan** * Morgan puts his arms around her (Molly) **She does kiss him then, just for a few moments. They decide to walk to the brothel and return the horses. Molly wanders on slightly ahead, asking for a minute to put her thoughts in order. (Molly) **HH says nothing, but after checking their group is alone but Molly can't see him, he gives Morgan a grin and starts holding his imaginary bubbies again. ** You're now known as Claudia * Morgan thumps him * Claudia speaks quietly to Morgan "what is he doing?" (Morgan) Holding his... bubbies... * Claudia laughs "Bubbies?" * Morgan nods (Claudia) Why would anyone call them that?! **HH's bubbies get bigger** (Morgan) I've no idea (Claudia) **He grins, and they gets bigger and bigger, until Claudia whispers "don't be ridiculous, no woman has breasts that big!" HH grins at her, whispering back: They might. Seen many women naked, have ya? (Claudia) **she looks a bit surprised, glancing at Morgan** * Morgan shrugs ever so slightly * Claudia looks at HH (Claudia) I've been in brothels with you, so quite a few! (Claudia) HH: Ahhh... maybe we could not mention quite 'ow many to my lil darlin'... (Morgan) sore sport there... (Morgan) spot* (Claudia) HH: She doesn' like t' think about me doin' anything with anyone else b'fore her * Claudia looks at HH as if he's stupid "who does?!" (Claudia) HH: That's why we should all be like Saint Morgan O' Puritytown. No bubbies, no problem. (Morgan) thought I was king Morgan... (Claudia) HH: Depends according to th' amount o' bubbies involved (Morgan) how? (Claudia) HH: Well, when I'm talkin' bout in the War, there was no bubbies for you, and you were always outside like a holy man, not even upset y' were missing out... * Morgan nods (Claudia) HH: Now y' have Morgan's Rock and bubbies so yer the King. (Morgan) I see * Claudia looks at HH "Shut up, Heinzharold" (Claudia) **he salutes her** (Claudia) **Thankfully, they get to the brothel and HH shuts up. There's no sound today of the woman's pleasure. HH opens the door, letting Morgan, Molly and Claudia in. It's still clean and airy today, and once again the same woman is there, and a small group of four men drinking. She sizes them up a moment, then looks to Morgan. (Claudia) W: How can I help you? ** You're now known as Molly * Molly is looking around, the only one of them who hasn't been in a brothel before (Morgan) My wife and I would like to talk to Elsie, privately (Molly) W: *she nods* And them? *she looks at HH and Claudia* (Morgan) They'll have some ale and wait down here (Molly) **The door opens behind them, and a familiar man comes in. It is Catherine's physician, Doctor Price. He's a big man, slightly taller than Morgan and broad. HH gestures $Tawstock's Grunhelm$ (Molly) **The woman gets the ale sorted first** (Morgan) $Physician$ (Molly) DP: Good afternoon, Master Hockridge, what good timing! (Morgan) it is rather * Molly comes back to Morgan's side (Molly) DP: Lady Torrington wrote to me about a young lady who was harmed and I am here to examine her * Morgan nods (Morgan) good... You'll be gentle I trust? (Molly) DP frowns: Of course. * Molly looks to the doctor (Molly) However gentle you aim to be, please be twice as gentle as that. (Molly) **He nods** I will go and see her now (Morgan) [Do you want to chaperone them?] (Molly) [Yes.] (Molly) I will accompany you (Molly) DP: It is not necessary, and it may be a little distressing * Molly 's shoulders square slightly, her chin coming up ((chance to intervene)) (Morgan) Doctor Price, it may be distressing for Elsie, and after what was done, I think it only fair she have someone to lean on, since it would be fair for her to be uncomfortable and distrusting of men, dont you? (Molly) **he nods** You may come with me. * Molly 's jaw tightens a little, but she politely says "Thank you. I have some medical knowledge acquired in Eisen, I am not squeamish and I wish to understand what has happened and what can be done to help her" (Molly) HH gestures $looked like she was about to go full Duchess on him then$ (Morgan) $very much so$ (Molly) W: I'll show you the way. *she says to Morgan* You staying here, handsome? * Morgan looks at Molly * Molly blinks rapidly a moment (Morgan) [what do you think?] (Molly) [It's fine, have a drink if you like, I want to get as much medical detail from him as I can] (Morgan) I'll wait with my friends until the doctor has completed his examination (Molly) W: *she gets him a drink before taking Molly and the doctor downstairs* ** You're now known as Claudia * Claudia sits at a table, drinking some ale (Claudia) What is wrong with this place and its weak drinks? * Morgan shrugs (Morgan) Its like they stop brewing early (Claudia) **They've been sat a few minutes when four girls appear and start flirting and chatting with the other group of men. Both Claudia and HH are keeping a cursory glance on them (Claudia) **One of the girls is short and blonde, big blue eyes and very pretty* * Morgan watches Claudia and HeinzHarold (Claudia) HH: What's been goin' on then? What was all the drama with th' spoon? (Morgan) Varick and William lied to the womenfolk, ended up trying to get into the pond... Caroline was going to punish them by hitting them with a spoon (Morgan) given what Varick has gone through... *he sighs* as Molly said, they should've asked how to discipline him, and Molly should've told them (Claudia) HH: Maybe she never thought he'd do something like that to Inga an' Claudia? Let's be honest, she's a bit terrifying if you're a child (Morgan) I think normally I'd agree but... this wasn't simply them misbehavin' * Claudia snorts "I'm terrifying if you're an adult too." (Claudia) HH **he watches the girls sitting in the laps of the men a moment before looking back at Morgan** What was it then? (Morgan) Cecily... (Claudia) HH: Varick was tryin' t' find her? (Morgan) No, he knew she was there... she's lonely and wanted to play (Claudia) Shouldn't have lied though. I'm not happy about it. I cant keep him safe if he does that. (Morgan) No, I know. I'm still working on that. (Morgan) Would you have gone along with it if he'd told you? (Claudia) Don't be ridiculous (Claudia) **there's laughing and giggling from the other table. It makes HH look over and immediately look away** * Morgan nods, glancing over (Claudia) **two of the women now have their dresses off to the waist, but not the little blonde * Claudia follows Morgan's glance (Claudia) HH: kids lie. You can't take it personal (Claudia) I'm not. It just has to stop. **she's still vaguely watching the women** * Morgan sips his ale (Morgan) As I said, I'm working on it (Claudia) **they both nod, drinking their ale. Two of the men go upstairs, the ones with the topless women** (Claudia) It's okay Heinzharold, the bubbies are gone *she winks at Morgan* (Morgan) bye bye bubbies * Claudia bursts out laughing. It gets the attention of the little blonde who smiles. Claudia winks at her * Morgan watches HeinzHarold discreetly (Claudia) *HH misses the wink* Weren't as nice anyway. * Claudia sips her ale. Her body language changes slightly, a little more smooth and self-assured. (Morgan) I'll take yer word for that (Claudia) HH: I'm not showing you my apples. * Claudia looks at Morgan (Claudia) I don't recall you asking him to? (Morgan) correct (Claudia) **The others go upstairs. The blonde gives them a look on the way, both HH and Claudia watching her. * Morgan rolls his eyes, sipping his ale (Claudia) HH grins: Reckon she likes me. * Claudia looks at Morgan, rolling her eyes (Claudia) Did she look blind to you, Morgan? (Morgan) She didn't seem to have eyes wandering about unseeing, no (Claudia) HH grins: I've had girls like me in the pitch dark. Must be cos I smell good * Claudia laughs (Claudia) Gainsburg. **HH shudders** * Morgan frowns (Morgan) what? * Claudia grins savagely (Claudia) Heinzharold kissed a man. (Morgan) oh really? (Claudia) HH: It was dark, I was drunk, an' he was built like a girl. It's not funny, Claudia! * Claudia looks at Morgan (Claudia) It's a bit funny. * Morgan takes a mouthful of ale (Claudia) HH: Alright, it was a bit funny * Claudia nods (Claudia) It was the way he ran out of his tent flapping like a chicken who has just seen a fox that made it funny. He tripped over his own foot * Morgan chuckles (Morgan) sorry my friend, _that_ sounds funny (Claudia) HH nods: woulda been hilarious if it 'ad been you * Claudia laughs hard (Morgan) except... I wouldn't have gotten that drunk as to fondle another man... (Claudia) HH: it was very hard to tell! * Claudia looks at Morgan (Claudia) He should have check for bubbies! (Morgan) indeed (Claudia) **HH starts telling a story about Claudia being so drunk one day that she told him she loved him, she proclaims it horseshit, and he goes on to make it fantastical. They're still bantering when the men come back downstairs and sit back at the table. The short girl comes too, watching Claudia from behind the bar. (Claudia) **HH starts making up a story about how he saved Morgan from the kracken off the Montaigne coast, and though Claudia is still listening and laughing, she and the girl seem to be engaged in some eye contact more than would be expected * Morgan nudges her slightly, glancing at HeinzHarold * Claudia nods slightly (Claudia) **another twenty minutes pass. The girl brings them drinks, and HH casually flirts a little. Claudia looks disinterested, bordering on avoidant. (Claudia) [Did you need to speak to Elsie?] (Morgan) [Have you told her anything?] (Claudia) [No, we have concentrated on getting her through the examination, and the doctor and I have been discussing it] (Morgan) [Then I need to know whats going on before we talk to her, dont I?] (Claudia) [She has a lot of scar tissue. I need to spend a little time experimenting, reading and thinking before I volunteer to heal her *she sounds a little evasive*] (Morgan) [You don't think you can...] (Claudia) [I don't know. I haven't worked with scar tissue, and I need to work out how to practice that. Also, if I get it wrong, I cannot be sure I would not bring the baby early. There is much to think about.] (Morgan) [Alright. I'll talk to her about what we've already discussed in terms of adoption] (Claudia) **she gives him directions** * Morgan stands up, looking at his friends (Morgan) time to speak to the girl. I'll be back. (Claudia) **they nod** ** You're now known as Molly * Morgan follows Molly's directions * Molly is saying goodbye to the doctor, confirming her name and lodging details. He inclines his head to Morgan "I will write to Lady Torrington" * Morgan nods (Morgan) thank you doctor (Molly) **He goes. Molly looks at Morgan. She looks grim** (Morgan) bad? * Molly nods (Morgan) are you alright? * Molly shrugs (Molly) You cannot let me near him. (Morgan) For your sake or his? (Molly) His. * Morgan shrugs (Morgan) aside from what it would do to you, you could turn him inside out and I would not bat an eyelid * Molly runs a finger over his chest where she magically cut him (Molly) This is what I will do to him if he is in touching distance. (Morgan) I don't intend for him to live long enough to get that close (Molly) *she looks serious* There will be retribution, Morgan. There _has to be_. * Morgan nods (Morgan) I agree * Molly looks at him, eyes intense, but says nothing a moment (Molly) He called her by my name. (Morgan) oh I'm going to gut him * Molly nods (Molly) Please don't ask her about the rest. I would shield you from it. * Morgan frowns (Morgan) why? (Molly) Because you do not need to think of it, to think of me in her place. (Morgan) You forget my night? Because I already do * Molly bows her head (Molly) I would not have you look at me and think of that. * Morgan grinds his teeth (Morgan) fine * Molly sighs (Molly) I disappoint you again. I only wish to _protect_ you. Can you understand why I would want to keep something from you to save your pain and torment. (Morgan) with the nightmare I've had I've already felt it and continue to. * Molly closes her eyes (Molly) And if you can never bear to love me again because you only think of him? (Morgan) I will not allow him to rip this from me. No matter what. (Molly) Is it that simple? (Morgan) It has to be, doesn't it (Molly) Do you command me? * Molly watches him seriously (Morgan) if needs be (Molly) I have to warn you, once you hear it you cannot unhear it. (Morgan) I am aware (Molly) The damage is extensive. It has impaired both her bladder and her bowels, as well as the scarring of her Womanhood. I do not have a clear idea of what damage the birth canal itself has sustained because it is impossible to do even a very gentle internal examination. There is no chance she can deliver her child in her present condition, and her daily life is badly affected. * Morgan nods (Morgan) alright (Molly) I am sure you understand that this sort of damage should be impossible even from rough sexual relations * Molly searches his face for understanding (Morgan) What did he do to her? * Molly takes a deep breath (Molly) He used his whole hand upon her, and also penetrated her rear without any due care and attention (Morgan) I see * Molly nods (Molly) I am certain I could fix it were it fresh injury, but it is the scar tissue that I think will present the problem. Doctor Price is going to send me some books of medicine, and I think I may need to communicate with Mae like we did with O'Flannigan * Molly looks at his expression (Morgan) That could be difficult for Varick. Do you think you can at least make things easier for her in meantime if you cant heal her? * Molly thinks (Molly) I would need some time to think how. It's the damned scarring that is causing all of the function issues. At the very least, I would like her to have normal functions in the near future, even if I can do nothing for the birthing. (Morgan) thats what I mean... if you cant save her, can you make what she has left more bearable... (Molly) I hope so. I know I can make it easier if the baby must be cut out. I can make it that she feels no pain * Morgan nods (Morgan) something at least. Alright, do you wish to go downstairs while I talk with her? (Molly) You wish me to leave you? *she looks sad and worried* (Morgan) I do not wish you to suffer any more than you must... I thought you might want a break (Molly) **There's a sound from up above in the bar room of breaking glass, and a body hitting the floor* * Molly glances upwards (Morgan) shit (Molly) Do you want to go or do you want me to? (Morgan) I'll go * Morgan heads back up the stairs (Molly) **Its very tense. Claudia has knocked out one of the men. HH seems to be appealing for calm in broken Avalonian and telling Claudia in Eisen to go away and sit down. She looks like she would happily eviscerate him. ** You're now known as Claudia * Morgan walks directly into the middle of the groups, looking at Claudia (Morgan) sit down. * Claudia does so * Morgan looks at HeinzHarold (Morgan) explanation please (Claudia) HH: He came up behind Claudia and put his arms over her shoulders. Almost got his hands on her breasts. He deserved it. * Morgan nods, looking at the other men (Morgan) locals? (Claudia) **They look pissed off in the extreme* Man: Get the fuck out of here, Eisen bastards! **he spits at Morgan's feet* (Morgan) Oh now, gentlemen, thats not nice... especially since his injury is his own fault... so here's the deal... you collect your friend and be on your way, and no more needs to be said. (Claudia) **Molly has obviously decided to follow him up, because her presence attracts one of the other men to say** I know where I know her from, not surprised she ended up in a whore house. * Claudia gets back up, moving towards Morgan * Morgan smiles slightly before grabbing the man and smashing his forehead into the mans nose (Claudia) **The other two men grab at Morgan, trying to restrain him * Morgan lets himself drop * Claudia and Claudia get stuck in to lamping these men (Claudia) And HH** (Claudia) **He hears movement, feels a magic prickles then hears the sound of a body hitting the floor, but further away than the scuffle * Morgan looks over (Claudia) **Molly is stood with the first man who got injured by Claudia on the floor in front of her. * Morgan gets up, placing a boot on the insulting mans neck and applying some pressure before shouting (Morgan) ENOUGH! (Claudia) **There's now all four locals on the floor.** (Claudia) **The little blonde appears from where she's hiding behind the bar. "Oh dear." * Morgan crouches down to the man under his boot (Claudia) **He looks up, going purple* (Morgan) you'll want to be apologising... and then you'll take your men and leave, and do let everyone know that upsetting Morgan Hockridge is what got you in this position... (Claudia) Man: Sorry for... calling... the Forrester... girl... a whore. * Morgan lets up the pressure (Claudia) Man: *he gasps and coughs and rubs his neck* (Morgan) Best be on your way, you don't want to be occupying my mind when I'm in a bad mood... (Claudia) **He struggles up, blood pouring from his nose. He manages to rouse the two men nearby and get them up and staggering** * Morgan rolls his shoulders slowly, watching them (Claudia) **Molly goes to the blonde, and comes back with a bucket of water, dumping it on the face of the man Claudia hit. He rouses suddenly, spluttering* (Claudia) HH *he sips his ale, and holds the door open for the locals* * Claudia glares at the man who started it whilst he staggers along to be with his friends (Claudia) **Molly gets a mop and starts mopping up the water. HH closes the door behind them. "Six" * Morgan moves towards Claudia (Morgan) six? (Claudia) Brothels Heinzharold has seen me beat a man for putting his hands on me (Claudia) HH: 's a lot more than that not in brothels. * Morgan nods, looking at her seriously (Claudia) I'm good. * Morgan nods, going to help Molly * Claudia speaks quietly "I know you probably want to, but don't hug me right now. (Claudia) **Molly looks to him** I didn't hurt him. ** You're now known as Molly * Morgan watches Claudia (Morgan) Wasn't going to. Know better than that... do what you need to to calm down * Morgan heads to Molly (Morgan) didn't hurt him... what did you do? (Molly) Made him faint, like when Stef was screaming * Morgan nods (Morgan) if thats what you needed to do my love (Molly) I couldn't be sure what he would do, it seemed safer whilst you were all busy (Molly) **HH and Claudia are laughing behind him** * Morgan nods (Morgan) I'm sorry he said that * Molly shrugs (Molly) I've heard it before, quite frequently * Molly wrings the mop into the bucket, the water faintly pink * Morgan shakes his head (Morgan) thats beside the point (Molly) You get used to it * Molly looks around at the blood on the floor * Morgan looks over at HeinzHarold and Claudia (Molly) **They are rough housing with each other, no injury likely (Molly) I'll clean up and supervise them if you wish to see Elsie * Morgan nods (Morgan) get them to clean up * Molly nods (Molly) Oh, Liebling? (Molly) Later, could you hold me a while so that I can feel that nothing has changed for us? *she looks serious and worried* (Morgan) of course my love (Molly) Thank you * Molly gets the blonde to get cleaning things and then goes to HH and Claudia, leaving him free to go back downstairs to find Elsie * Morgan goes to find Elsie ** You're now known as Elsie * Elsie is in the kitchen now, peeling potatoes (Morgan) Elsie... * Elsie looks round (Elsie) Master Hockridge. Didn't know that's who you were yesterday (Morgan) I thought everyone knew who I am (Elsie) Alright if I keep working? People need to be fed. (Morgan) of course (Elsie) I know who Master Hockridge is, just not that that was you (Morgan) so you know I'm horrible and grumpy? (Elsie) Brutal and violent more like, but you dont seem it (Morgan) the men we've just removed might disagree... and I'm brutal and violent when its necessary * Elsie nods (Elsie) Do I have to Sir you, cos in my line of work we dont usually. We're all the same without our clothing. (Morgan) Not at all... * Elsie nods (Elsie) Dont spose you want to peel some potatoes? * Morgan nods, taking up a knife and joining in (Morgan) Thank you for seeing the doctor (Elsie) I want the baby to live, so it makes sense to. * Morgan nods (Morgan) I suppose you have a real hatred for Eisen men now? * Elsie shakes her head (Elsie) Only the ones that came here. Some men are just brutes, dont matter where they were born. Most arent (Morgan) I'm glad to hear you say that... I've been talking it over with my wife and, one way or another, I promise you your child will not end up in a place like this (Elsie) But it'll be the child of a whore and a rapist. Who will take it? * Elsie scrubs hard at a potato (Morgan) I understand your concern... We have two families in mind, and if one wont take the child, the other will... (Elsie) You're certain? (Morgan) completely (Elsie) Are they good people? (Morgan) yes... I wouldn't consider leaving a child with them if I did not think so * Elsie nods (Morgan) both have family ties to me or my wife (Elsie) Thank you. Why would you help me? (Morgan) a few reasons... one being that I hate Dau... he is the antithesis of everything a nobleman is supposed to be... and I'm am determined to make a difference to this world, even if its for just one person at a time * Elsie nods (Elsie) I'm not a bad person. Wasn't my fault I ended up like this. I wasn't loose. (Morgan) what happened? (Elsie) Same thing what often happens. Met a boy, fell in love, we promised we'd get married a few months later, made a baby... * Elsie glances at him (Elsie) Wasnt his fault neither * Morgan nods (Morgan) what happened to the baby? (Elsie) Well, the Dad got pressganged, see? I managed to follow him to the port here. Wrote my family but they wouldn't have me. Didn't have anywhere to go so I took up whoring til the men started to talk about my body and they realised and set me in the kitchen.Then the baby was stillborn and I went back upstairs. * Morgan nods (Elsie) Its not the worst life, normally. Even most men who come here aren't rough. Most of them are just sad or lonely. They got wives that wont sleep with them, or wives pregnant and they dont want to hurt them, or their wives have died and they just need a woman to hold them and be sweet to them. * Morgan nods (Elsie) Sounds weird, but the last ones are the best ones, they're just lonely mostly, and it's easy to be kind and listen to them and let them cry. And they really really gentle. * Morgan nods (Morgan) I can appreciate them wanting someone just to talk to * Elsie nods (Elsie) Couple of them I still see. Can't have sex with them, but I can still cuddle them, and they're happy with that * Morgan nods (Morgan) one of the families... it'd mean your baby growing up in Eisen (Elsie) One of them, he calls me by his wife's name, and I call him Darling like she did. He likes to lie down with me and read to me * Elsie nods (Elsie) I dont mind that, long as it's not in a brothel (Morgan) noble house... he's a Freiarr... basically runs a town and land around it * Elsie smiles (Elsie) That'd be nice. Good work in the kitchens and below stairs in noble houses (Morgan) You misunderstand... it'd be the Freiarr raising the child (Elsie) A child from the likes of me? Seems a bit weird (Morgan) lets be honest, nothing about me is normal... * Elsie nods (Elsie) What about the other family? (Morgan) farmers, near here * Elsie nods (Elsie) They could visit my grave then, if I can afford one (Morgan) Don't worry about that, we'll make sure of it (Elsie) Thank you. I've written the baby a letter, can someone teach it to read? (Morgan) I'll make sure of it... I think you should decide on a name for it too, so start thinking * Elsie nods (Elsie) I'll think. I want it to know that I loved it, no matter how it got made, and what it's gonna take to give it life * Morgan nods (Morgan) alright (Elsie) Thank you (Elsie) Your wife is really nice * Morgan nods (Morgan) I think so (Elsie) She held my hand, kept reminding the doctor to be gentle, and was breathing slowly and deeply with me so I wouldn't feel scared * Morgan nods (Morgan) she had an examination once that was very painful and scared her... she did not want you suffering the same, especially after what you've been subjected to (Elsie) I did wonder if it was something like that. **she looks at him** I dont blame her. (Morgan) how do you mean? (Elsie) I'm not stupid. The hair, the name, the fact you hate him. * Morgan nods (Morgan) I'm glad... a pity that she does (Elsie) Tell her I said she can't. I'd rather it was me than anyone else. (Morgan) he's going to pay for what he did * Elsie nods (Elsie) I hope so. 'Fore he finds another girl with very red hair. * Morgan nods (Morgan) soon as I can get my hands on him * Elsie nods (Elsie) Good * Elsie looks down (Elsie) You've done a good job with those potatoes. I can manage from here. * Morgan nods, cleaning his hands (Morgan) We'll speak soon... take care Elsie (Elsie) And you * Morgan nods, putting five guilders in front of her before walking back up to the taproom (Elsie) **Theres still cleaning going on up there, the blonde, Molly and Claudia. The blonde and Claudia make occasional eye contact. HH is sat drinking his ale ** You're now known as Molly (Molly) HH: *he looks at Morgan and gestures** wasn't me this lassie is attracted to (Morgan) hmmm? (Molly) HH: tha' lassie likes Claudia * Morgan looks over (Morgan) oh (Molly) You ready t' go? (Morgan) aye (Molly) Molly told me where to take you to break stuff * Morgan smiles slightly (Morgan) 'm alright (Molly) HH stares at him, unspeaking (Morgan) alright (Molly) HH: best tell her we're going * Morgan nods, going to Molly (Morgan) I'm being told we're leaving * Molly nods (Molly) I would think after some of that it will do you good, liebling (Morgan) I disagree but its clear he won't take no for an answer (Molly) Consider that perhaps Heinzharold may benefit from doing something to help you when in the past he was not able... * Morgan nods (Morgan) very well * Molly kisses his cheek (Molly) I will have dinner arranged for when you return * Morgan nods, heading for the door (Molly) **the little woodland is beside the river. There's trees to chop, stones to skim, and they do that for a bit before HH finally says** How are y' doing? ** You're now known as HH * Morgan shrugs (Morgan) I feel a bit... numb * HH nods (HH) A lot going on. Elsie, Molly and her sister, the Daggets * Morgan nods (HH) Stuff with the Daggets will be done after the christening on Saturday (Morgan) They aren't a concern for me * HH nods (HH) So what's on your noggin'? (Morgan) Cecily for a start... to be able to rest she needs Molly to have the doll... (HH) But Molly might not cope with it? (Morgan) she's a lot stronger now than she was... but its possible * HH nods * HH skims a stone (HH) Does she have to know it's the doll, and that her sister gave it back, or just has to have it in her possession? (Morgan) I don't know actually... though if she spots it... (HH) Jus' thinking maybe you could change it enough, or put it in something * Morgan nods (Morgan) maybe... worth thinking about * HH nods (HH) Gots them smarts *he taps his temple* * Morgan nods (Morgan) aye... (HH) Not a solution, but a new avenue. What else? (Morgan) Elsie... (HH) Go on (Morgan) the damage she's suffered...the brutality of it... * Morgan blinks, slowly becoming neutral (HH) Hey! * Morgan breathes slowly (HH) It's bad, if there's enough scarring that Molly is asking me if I have any war scars she can practice on * Morgan nods (Morgan) Its not just that she won't be able to give birth normally... her day to day life is ruined... inconvenient to relieve yourself? Just hold it, right? She cant... * HH nods (HH) Know veterans like that. * Morgan nods, taking a deep breath (HH) More? (Morgan) he sodomised her, without a care for her pain... he used his _fist_ on her for fuck sake * HH takes a deep breath in, jaw clenched. Then he nods (HH) Absolute fucking monster. * Morgan sinks to his knees and starts to sob (Morgan) he called her Molly... * HH comes down too and wraps his friend in a tight hug just being there * Morgan sobs like a small boy for five solid minutes before quieting (HH) Keep talking, let's get it all out **this is what 13 year old Morgan said to 13 year old HH after his father died** (Morgan) I'm scared of how angry I am... of what I want to do to him (HH) He fucking deserves it. It's not wrong to deliver a rabid piece of shit like this to hell in agony. * Morgan nods (Morgan) politics be damned, he is going to die * HH nods (HH) We'll find him, and you will kill him. * HH keeps on hugging him * Morgan takes a deep, slow breath (Morgan) alright * HH gently lets go (HH) We need to get to work. We need to track this fucker down. This is the shit we're good at. We have you, me, Claudia, vessels, funds, eighty former Objectionist sailors. We have a bollock load of magic shit. You know the country, you know some of his contacts. Let's get shit squared away as we go along, but let's get this done. * Morgan takes the flask from his pocket, drinking some (Morgan) I have a contact coming here friday. He'll know where he is... but he cant be far (HH) 21st in Avebury. 10 days ago. Involved with an Avalon noble woman. Where does she live, where else does she own? * HH seems to have exited Court Jester mode and gone into Exceptional Strategist mode. Not the first time Morgan has seen it, but aside from when Alarice ran away, it's the first time since the end of the War (Morgan) last I heard she was renting a house in Tawstock but that was before her paramour at the time got... murdered (HH) Dodgy, was it? His contact going to be working at cross-purposes or allied? (Morgan) just a bit scandalous... I got accused of his murder... and its entirely possible he will object to what I'm going to do (HH) So treat his info as possibly suspect (HH) What's Dau's ship called? (Morgan) maybe. We'll play it by ear. Ships called the solemn wind (HH) Didn't see it in Carleon on the 21st, we took Varick out. Other ports maybe? (Morgan) Could be (Morgan) haven't seen it in Kingston * HH nods (HH) What's the chances of an arrest warrant from Lady Torrington, take him in if he turns up? (Morgan) I can ask... (HH) Friday is tomorrow * Morgan nods (HH) You tellin' the contact what you're up to? (Morgan) No... * HH nods (HH) Claudia? (Morgan) That he's going to die... certainly (HH) That we're going to find him before anyone else and end it (Morgan) probably (HH) Might need her if we're going to be off looking for him * Morgan nods (Morgan) aye * HH sits back on his heels (HH) How sure are you the contact is coming? (Morgan) fairly (Morgan) unless he gets called to something urgent (HH) Land or sea? (Morgan) I would imagine sea (HH) Docking here? (Morgan) possibly... it'd make sense (HH) You need to be on the dock waiting for him? (Morgan) No, he's going to see Lady Torrington (HH) Two birds one stone. * HH looks at him (HH) How much of this are you telling Molly? (Morgan) of what exactly? (HH) All of it. Damage, how the injury happened, her name, getting out there and finding him, killing him brutally? (Morgan) She knows... she told me... she also knows I'm going to kill him... she demands retribution * HH winces (HH) Jesus. Some of that is too much for a woman to hear anyway, even if it wasn't so close to home * Morgan nods (HH) Should I fetch her and bring her out here next? (Morgan) so she can throw things? (HH) So she can keep talking and letting it all out (Morgan) probably * HH nods (HH) We've had a few heart-to-hearts on our trips to Dagget (Morgan) oh? (HH) Talks a lot about you, about not realising how much you loved her. About Jana and the past. Talked about my Da too. * HH gets up and brushes off his trousers * Morgan nods, standing up (Morgan) difficult (HH) Howdya mean? (Morgan) must've been difficult for the both of you * HH shakes his head (HH) No, not particularly * Morgan nods (Morgan) good (HH) That's what you want, me to bring her out here to talk it over? (Morgan) Will it do her good? * HH looks at him (HH) Has it done you good despite saying you were alright? * Morgan nods (Morgan) I think so * HH nods (HH) Let's get back to the lodging house, I'll grab a minute with my lil darlin and bring Molly out * Morgan nods (Morgan) alright * HH walks along quietly, it's very unlike his usual singing on dickishness. The room Molly is in is a mess. There are bits of paper and open books on the floor. She's sat at the desk facing the wall. HH says "Molly, I've come to take you out there to talk". Distractedly she replies "I'd rather you take off your shirt." * HH looks at Morgan with a hint of a smile (Morgan) well, I wasn't expecting that (HH) **Molly turns around, looking at them with a little frown** Not for my enjoyment! * HH looks at Morgan "Should I be offended?" (Morgan) Blossom... would you not rather work with mine? I have... a few more than HeinzHarold (HH) No, they faded some when I first healed you, do you recall? I'm hoping Heinzharold has something really awful and dense (Morgan) I see * HH chuckles quietly "That has got to be the worst thing a woman has ever said t' me * Morgan nods (HH) [Is this a problem for you?] (Morgan) [No... but I would take the walk he offered. ] (HH) [I am busy. I want to work.] * Morgan nods slightly, sitting down (HH) M: shirt off please. * HH nods "Aye Ay-" he blushes (HH) **Molly goes around behind him. For just a moment it reminds Morgan of the night at Die Dauerhaftigkeit when everyone was away, she'd been stroking him then was stripping him, her kisses on his bare back * Morgan frowns slightly (HH) M: Okay, some of these are good, they were obviously deep wounds which is wonderful (HH) I'll thank the Vaticine troops next time I see them(!) (HH) M: I am going to touch you now, no magic. Alright? (HH) [Would you prefer to sit in with Inga instead? I have her approval, but she said she couldn't stand to watch] * HH nods "poke away" (Morgan) [alright] * Morgan gets up, going to find Inga ** You're now known as Inga * Inga is sat reading to Varick (Inga) V: papa! * Morgan kneels down to hug the boy * Inga smiles at Morgan, watching them (Inga) **Varick hugs him* I missed you (Morgan) I missed you too (Inga) **Morgan can feel the light tingle of magic on the back of his neck** * Inga looks at Morgan (Inga) Is Heinzharold with Molly? * Morgan nods (Inga) Silly, isn't it? Nothing to be bothered about, and yet... * Morgan nods (Morgan) aye, I know (Inga) Feeling the same? (Morgan) to an extent (Inga) It's important though. I think she'll ask Claudia too (Morgan) probably (Inga) Anything I can do for you? (Morgan) not hat I can think of... unless you'd mind making some tea? * Inga goes downstairs to get some. Varick cuddles up to have Morgan read about five minutes later, [he says he has some on his thigh, but I wanted to check with you] (Morgan) [fine] (Inga) ((Tone?)) (Morgan) ((neutral)) (Inga) **Another five minutes, just after Inga comes back with tea and tells him dinner will be ready in five minutes [all done for now] (Morgan) I think they're done * Inga nods. She and Heinzharold take five minutes to themselves, meanwhile Varick looks interested in one of the books she hasn't used yet, flicking through. She's making notes on paper ** You're now known as Molly (Molly) How are you, my love? * Morgan nods (Morgan) I'm alright (Molly) Good. *still writing** Doctor Price was very generous with lending me books. Its amazing how much happens if you throw a fancy title at people * Morgan nods (Morgan) its a tool to be used * Molly nods. There's no smirk or mischievous expression at this (Molly) I think I might eat here, if that is alright? (Morgan) If you feel you need to (Molly) I have much to read * Morgan nods (Morgan) of course (Molly) **HH and Inga knock for them, and they all, aside from Molly, have dinner. It goes smoothly, and when they get back upstairs to put Varick to bed she hasn't touched hers. Despite reminding her to, when he comes back from putting Varick to bed, she's still just reading and note taking. It's almost nine by then. * Molly doesn't hear him comes through at first * Molly sets down the pencil, stretching (Molly) I'm sorry, I did not hear you. Was Inga alright? * Morgan nods (Morgan) aye * Molly nods, watching him (Molly) And you? You left very quickly (Morgan) I didn't want to be a distraction... eat. (Molly) You were not a distraction *she picks at it, eating little bits* (Morgan) how did it go? (Molly) Reasonably. I'm learning about scar tissue, how it works and how it feels, magically. There's also much to learn to make sure I can do it in the correct way to restore function... if I was doing it there and then, I could have done it easier (Morgan) I know * Molly frowns a little (Molly) Perhaps my magic would have started automatically then... (Morgan) maybe * Molly shudders, then tilts her chin up "no, we are not playing What If. What matters now is helping Elsie, and then helping the baby. That is all." * Morgan nods (Morgan) She has written the child a letter, and will be choosing a name... She told me to tell you you mustn't blame yourself... because she doesn't. * Molly 's eyes narrow (Molly) I do not blame myself. I blame him. (Morgan) good (Molly) It should not have been me or her, it should have been neither. * Morgan nods (Molly) Oh fuck (Morgan) what? (Molly) We dont have your herbs or oil * Morgan shrugs (Morgan) I'll just have to manage (Molly) They did not make a difference last night (Morgan) They rarely seem to * Molly nods (Molly) But you _will_ try to sleep? (Morgan) if I must (Molly) If you will not, I will stay up with you. * Molly watches him (Morgan) of the two of us, I am used to operating without sleep. * Molly smiles (Molly) My two batches of twenty one nights of insomnia were quite functional (Morgan) Not something I want you to risk again. * Molly shrugs (Molly) The first one was from sleeping in barns afraid to be discovered. The second was when I was terrified of my desire for you being unwanted and excessive. Neither of those is happening now (Morgan) Even so... * Molly frowns slightly (Molly) I am a little afraid on the second, actually (Morgan) how do you mean? * Molly gets up, sitting on the bed (Molly) I am afraid that this will have changed things for you where I am concerned (Morgan) Why? In what way? (Molly) Because you will be afraid of yourself, or you will not be able to be with me intimately without this being in your mind * Morgan sighs * Molly watches him patiently (Morgan) the latter may be an issue for a while, yes... * Molly nods a little (Molly) Then we can wait, as we did before, until you are ready. (Morgan) We'll have to see how we go (Molly) I will follow your lead then * Morgan nods slightly (Morgan) as for being afraid of myself... well, I wasn't exactly sure of myself in the first place (Molly) What do you mean? (Morgan) The way I was last night... * Molly watches him very seriously (Molly) Yes? (Morgan) That was more aggressive than I've ever been... its unsettled me (Molly) **her expression flashes with discomfort** But it was not just because that is what you thought I wanted from you? (Morgan) what do you mean? (Molly) That control and roughness. Was that simply because I have mentioned such in ths past, and you wanted to please me? * Morgan shakes his head slightly * Molly breathes out a sigh of relief (Molly) Good (Molly) I hate the idea that you would feel pushed to do something you disliked so much simply because you thought I wanted it. (Morgan) I wonder if it'd be easier for me if it had been just to please you... how far removed from... him am I that I behaved like that (Molly) And then to discover that I would have been incredibly saddened that you felt bad about it and it was not even from your own desire? That would not have been easier, I think (Morgan) I suppose so (Molly) And you are _nothing_ like him * Morgan shrugs (Morgan) is it that different, really... * Molly frowns deeply (Molly) It is entirely different. * Morgan shrugs slightly * Molly watches him (Molly) _Why_ were you in control and rough? (Morgan) because I wanted to be... I... I needed to just have you * Molly nods (Molly) You were not angry with me? (Morgan) No, of course not (Molly) You did not feel hurt by me? Or rejected? (Morgan) no... * Molly waits to see if he's expanding on it * Morgan shakes his head (Morgan) no, not at all (Molly) You did not seek to punish me and pain me because I would not be yours? (Morgan) obviously not because you are mine * Molly closes her eyes a moment, nodding and breathing slowly (Molly) You didn't do things to me without proper care and preparation? (Morgan) I don't believe so (Molly) You would have stopped if I had sounded or said I was pained? (Morgan) of course (Molly) You wanted me to enjoy it? * Morgan nods (Molly) You knew I would enjoy it? (Morgan) fairly sure... (Molly) How is any of this at all similar then? (Morgan) the aggression... (Molly) You weren't trying to hurt me. It was dominant, yes, but not _aggressive_. * Morgan narrows his eyes (Morgan) I suppose... you're right (Molly) I am. And if we were to assume that you were correct about it being _aggressive_, which you are not, what would it say about me that I loved and revelled in it, and felt such a deep inner peace from it? *she watches him firmly* (Morgan) A fair point * Molly nods (Molly) I assure you had you returned straight to the Rose yesterday from Tawstock you would have received a forceful initiation of my own! * Morgan nods (Morgan) ((need to go to bed)) (Molly) ((Aye)) (Molly) I do not wish you to feel bad. What we do, we do with love, for our mutual enjoyment and closeness. I am not, nor ever have been, afraid of the intensity of your desire. I see, with hindsight, you have hinted at it in the past, and perhaps have held back at times? * Morgan nods (Morgan) aye (Molly) I do not want that. I want you to love me and make love to me _entirely_, with all of you. * Morgan nods (Molly) But for tonight, perhaps let's just hold each other, and know that even if all not not quite well, our love is stronger than what we must face * Morgan nods (Morgan) that I can do * Molly nods, kissing his cheek. That is what they do and she even keeps her shift on ** You are now disconnected (Connection timed out)