(Molly) **The grown ups are all drinking champagne, the atmosphere cheerful. He and HH are given some. James tickles three year old Charlotte, making her giggle* Pete do you remember how ticklish Moll used to be? * Molly blushes hard at this, sipping her champagne (Molly) P: She used to squeal the place down! (Molly) **This reminds him of being in Innesbruck with her after they came back from the Golden Lantern, where she told him her brothers were told to stop because the age gap was too big, and their parents were tired of the squealing, and how Morgan tickling her had made her laugh and squeal and escalated into her being very aroused* * Morgan watches them quietly (Molly) J: **he laughs** Long time ago now * Molly glances at Morgan a moment (Molly) They were not always nice brothers! (Morgan) so it appears (Molly) **The siblings descend into stories of misdeeds. A bit later, HH & Claudia are outside, Morgan has Joseph, Inga has Mary. Beth looks at Molly** There's something I wanted to talk to you upstairs about, as one wife to another. It's about the Bere Alston Women's Club. (Molly) **Molly looks intrigued, but James stands, putting his daughter Emily on his shoulders "I'm going! Heard more than enough of this one!". Pete looks very briefly sad before kissing his wife's cheek and looking at her "I'd rather not be here for it either" * Morgan raises an eyebrow * Molly tops up her champagne, as Peter follows his brother out (Molly) B: *she looks to Morgan* Nothing awful. Pete doesn't like it because it's back when I was first married before, and a bit intimate. * Morgan nods (Morgan) you wish me to leave? (Molly) B: We'll go on upstairs, if we can leave you and Inga with the babies? * Morgan nods (Morgan) I'm sure we can manage (Molly) **Inga nods happily at this* * Molly kisses Morgan's cheek, careful of the babe in his arms, and follows her sister in law upstairs ** You're now known as Inga * Inga comes over with Mary held to her shoulder, looking at baby Joseph (Inga) He's sweet, isn't he? * Morgan nods (Morgan) aye (Inga) Did you always like children? * Morgan nods (Morgan) they're... simple (Inga) Grown ups are very complicated, even the simple looking ones * Morgan nods (Inga) Varick has started calling you papa * Morgan nods (Morgan) aye, he has (Morgan) he had Molly ask if it was alright * Inga nods (Inga) They're all careful not to hurt you * Morgan nods (Morgan) it holds them back sometimes * Inga nods (Inga) Molly especially * Morgan nods, watching her * Inga watches him back. As always the stare doesn't seem to bother her at all (Morgan) is there something on your mind, Inga? (Inga) No, just thinking how much better she's been since we met you again in Freiburg. Much more relaxed with you. * Morgan nods (Morgan) I've been working on being less... me, I suppose * Inga frowns (Inga) That doesnt sound like a positive thing? (Morgan) it is... because I'm more the me I used to be... * Inga nods (Inga) Heinzharold said you were easier going and less quiet * Morgan nods (Morgan) very much so (Inga) She's happy aside from everything that's been going on... *this smacks of fishing for information* (Morgan) oh? like what? * Inga waves her hand (Inga) The thing with the brothel, the sale of the farm, her sister (Morgan) did HeinzHarold tell you that I'm very good at spotting a leading question? Or picking up the little feelings people don't think others can see? * Inga sighs (Inga) Yes, but I thought it might be worth a try. * Morgan smiles faintly (Morgan) rarely... you could try asking directly... (Inga) What's got Heinzharold so upset about the brothel... and were there women throwing themselves at him? (Morgan) Will he not tell you? (Inga) If I get close to asking, he starts being very silly. (Morgan) Then it isn't really my place to tell you, is it? (Inga) You'd ask me if there was something really upsetting Molly that you couldn't get an answer to though. (Morgan) And you'd say the same, wouldn't you? (Inga) Probably *she smiles* * Morgan nods (Morgan) be gentle with him... what I will tell you is that, the things we've been told... had me on my knees sobbing like a heartbroken child * Morgan watches her reaction * Inga looks very surprised but also very compassionate (Inga) You dont cry. * Morgan shrugs (Morgan) evidently I do (Inga) I'm sorry you felt that bad. Heinzharold only told me you'd been angry and chopped some trees (Morgan) the first trip there, I did... the second one... * Inga nods (Inga) Heinzharold has been very upset, but wouldn't tell me why it's so bad. I thought maybe the girl getting hurt was making him think of Dreiser and what my life could have been like in Mecklenburg if I hadn't left (Morgan) I've no doubt some of it is that... * Inga gently bounces Mary who is starting to fuss (Inga) I'll be even more gentle to him then * Morgan nods (Morgan) as for women throwing themselves at him... no... first time he was with me, second time he was with Claudia until someone groped her... then a fair chunk of hell broke loose (Inga) He said there was some heroism on his part *she smiles* * Morgan nods (Inga) Molly is going to try and heal the girl and save her and the baby. I hope it works * Morgan nods (Morgan) so do I (Inga) Do you think it will? (Inga) **Mary gets fussier** (Morgan) I'm afraid I just don't know * Inga nods, rocking the crying child (Inga) We will just have to be hopeful * Morgan nods (Inga) Do you need me to keep an eye on her? (Morgan) Molly? * Inga nods whilst shushing * Morgan nods (Inga) Let you know if she gets really upset? * Morgan nods (Morgan) please (Inga) What if she said not to tell you? (Morgan) Then that is for you to decide... at some point we have to overrule our loved ones wishes if not doing so would lead them to harm... * Inga nods (Inga) Yes (Inga) **Mary cries properly now, but Inga seems to know what to do very well for a woman who isn't a mother yet* (Morgan) you're good with her... * Inga nods (Inga) We often had the babies Dreiser had made be dumped on the doorsteps of the kitchens * Morgan nods (Inga) Whoever had the least work was put in charge of them. Hard to scrub a floor with a babe in a wrapping cloth on your back when you're eleven * Morgan nods (Morgan) aye I would imagine so (Inga) The housekeeper used to say the babies got taken to live with families who couldn't have children, but I dont think they did (Morgan) no? (Inga) I think their days in the kitchens were probably their last days on Theah * Morgan frowns (Morgan) thankfully not something that will be required any longer (Inga) No, I'm glad about that (Inga) The worst of it was watching the older maids and knowing it would soon be your turn. Knowing he was looking at you and thinking it. * Inga shushes the toddler again, and it does seem to be working * Morgan nods (Inga) Thank you again for getting rid of him (Morgan) I was settling for just stopping him... (Inga) Worked out best for everyone but him * Morgan nods * Inga concentrates on settling Mary for a few minutes. Meanwhile Joseph is fast asleep in Morgan's arms (Inga) **Once the crying stops, Inga is rocking Mary, looking at the paintings Molly's grandfather did that have been left on the kitchen table** They're good, aren't they? * Morgan nods (Morgan) aye, they are (Inga) I particularly like this one *she points to Sophie* * Morgan nods (Morgan) Davids mother (Inga) You can see it, in the eyes * Morgan nods (Inga) There's something sad about it too. Like she is just too perfect, like a rose in vase that makes you smile but you know too that it'll be gone soon * Morgan nods (Morgan) there's a painting of Dietlinde and Jana that has the same qualities * Inga nods (Inga) I know (Inga) Molly told me about it when we met you again in Freiburg * Morgan nods (Inga) She told me that Otto had it in Innesbruck and it surprised her * Morgan nods (Morgan) it was difficult to see (Inga) **Otto's is a miniature copy, the original, complete with charred frame, is in Otto's house, recovered from the wreckage. The day he saw that was the day he told them he was remarrying and discovered Dietlinde was likely pregnant** (Inga) They were beautiful, she says * Morgan nods (Morgan) they were (Inga) Heinzharold has told me that too * Morgan nods (Inga) He told me it's a bit difficult for you when I hold Mary sometimes * Morgan frowns briefly before nodding (Inga) He wasn't tattling. * Inga watches him (Morgan) I'm... unused to others knowing what I find a struggle (Inga) When we know, we can help. He wanted to make sure I wasn't going to hand her to you unexpectedly. * Morgan nods (Morgan) I'm not annoyed that he told you... its just... difficult being open * Inga frowns, shaking her head a little (Inga) You're a confusing man. (Morgan) why? (Inga) You just told me about sobbing like a heartbroken child with no prompting, but its bothering you that I know a blonde woman carrying a child the age of your daughter is hard (Morgan) I told you because you needed to understand HeinzHarold being upset... the only way to do that without overstepping was to tell you the effect it had on me * Inga nods (Inga) I'm grateful. I know you being that emotional is extremely rare, so I appreciate the trust * Morgan nods (Inga) It won't go any further (Morgan) thank you (Inga) Not even to Molly. (Morgan) I daresay it won't be long before I tell her... as I do with most things * Inga nods slowly (Inga) Alright (Morgan) that troubles you? (Inga) No... (Morgan) but... (Inga) I'm not sure how Molly will react. But I can't say more without breaking a confidence. (Morgan) You think I should keep it to myself? (Inga) I don't know. Like I said, I'm not sure. * Morgan nods, frowning * Inga is looking back at the paintings so misses it (Morgan) I find it difficult not knowing... I'm not asking you to tell me, I just wish you to understand * Inga nods (Inga) I understand (Inga) *she points to the sunset painting of lundy* This one is nice too, of Morgan's Rock from the mainland (Morgan) It has a name... (Inga) According to Heinzharold, that's is Morgan's Rock or Koertig Island (Morgan) Lundy... thats its actual name * Inga thiclnks about it (Inga) I prefer Morgan's Rock * Morgan shrugs slightly (Inga) Do you like the name Lundy? (Morgan) I cant say i've thought about it (Inga) Would you be able to change it if you did want to? (Inga) [I think I could do with a little walk after that!] (Morgan) Probably... its mine... (Inga) How did you get it? (Morgan) I asked nicely (Morgan) [if that is what you wish my love] (Inga) [There is only so much thinking about my beloved husband spending himself that I can manage without becoming rather… flustered.] (Inga) Who did you ask? (Morgan) the queen (Inga) ((Expression please)) (Morgan) ((earnest I suppose)) (Inga) Why did she just let you have it if it's worth two thousand guilders? (Inga) [You could join me?] (Morgan) [Best get the ladies to come and get the baerns then] (Morgan) Because it was infested with monsters (Inga) I think Heinzharold enjoyed that * Morgan nods (Inga) **Beth comes down, taking Joseph from Morgan* Molly said you might like to see her old drawings in her room. I didnt tell her you already went up there * Morgan nods, looking at Inga (Morgan) will you excuse me? * Inga nods ** You're now known as Molly * Morgan head sup to find her * Molly is sat upstairs on the little bed. There's no odd out-of-place coldness like when he was there with Heinzharold. She smiles (Molly) This is it... the bedroom Cess and I had as a child. Some of my other sisters too, but they had gone before I was born * Morgan nods (Molly) There are lots of silly drawings that I did. This one is interesting though **It's a redheaded girl following a flying raven through a forest* (Morgan) chasing a raven? * Molly nods (Molly) I do not recall why, I was probably only Varick's age * Morgan nods * Molly looks at him (Molly) This is the first time I have been in here since * Morgan nods (Morgan) I thought as much (Molly) Because if it wasnt, I would not have needed you? * Molly smiles * Morgan shrugs (Morgan) maybe * Molly holds out her hand to him * Morgan takes it (Molly) Is this what you did in the winter when you went back to Eisen? Touched the old places of the past to put some order to them? (Morgan) No... that was when we came back (Molly) You had not been back to the clearing until then ((it was when the Forrester's cottage had been built and he was taking David to see it for the first time)) (Molly) ? (Morgan) no... * Molly nods (Molly) In the space of eight months, we both went through a lot, didn't we? The fire, my illness and being forced from my home and family, you having to leave Avebury and take the job at Lady Catherine's. * Morgan nods (Morgan) aye (Molly) Strange, really, the way we were both suffering simultaneously and completely separately * Morgan nods * Molly takes down the drawing right beside the bed that has the courses calendar on the back * Morgan watches her carefully (Molly) Every morning for months I marked this. Before I got sick, it was just practical to know precisely when to expect it. * Morgan nods (Molly) Then once the first one was missed, I would pray at night for it to be there in the morning, over and over. Even when I started coughing up blood, _this_ was what they cared about * Morgan nods (Morgan) because of how it could impact their reputation * Molly nods (Molly) Yes * Molly looks at him with a frown (Molly) They could have just sent me away, perhaps to Durham with my Mother's family. I could have stayed there until they could be sure I would not have a child. They could have protected themselves _and_ me. (Morgan) I know (Molly) Maybe you'd have been able to stay at Catterick. We'd probably still have met somehow *she smiles a little* * Morgan nods (Morgan) I'd imagine so * Molly kisses his knuckles (Molly) I am sorry I left you for so long (Morgan) was it a scintillating conversation? * Molly nods, smiling (Molly) Most enlightening as well as distracting! (Morgan) oh? (Molly) It was the story of how a puritanical Highland Marches priest led to a group of newlywedded friends and distant cousins to discover the secret of making and avoiding conception of a child * Molly watches his reaction (Morgan) oh dear * Molly smiles (Molly) It's not anything scandalous as such (Morgan) no? (Molly) Beth's parish had a new priest around the time she and most of her friends and cousins got married, and he was a firm believer that only intimacy with the aim of conception was approved by Theus, and all else was fornication... * Morgan rolls his eyes (Molly) He was from a family of Heifer-raising farmers. He believed strongly that the only time this was possible was two days before any blood was seen, because in Heifers that is what it is. So, all these couples started to follow his suggestion * Molly smiles at him * Morgan shakes his head (Morgan) the mans an idiot * Molly nods (Molly) Only a couple of them fell pregnant in that first year, where almost all of them should have. So they were quietly asked, and it turns out their husbands had refused to follow this rule, and they had just behaved as newlyweds will. They put two and two together, and those who were very keen to have children stopped following it, those who wished to wait still did. Pooling their information, they worked out that he was on the right lines, but with the wrong idea... * Morgan nods (Molly) Two days before heifer shows blood, she will show a clear abundance of fluid, and be very keen on engaging the bull, even trying to mount him. So the women then followed _that_ as a guide for their own bodies. Suddenly everyone was pregnant almost immediately. The women sticking to the first plan were able to avoid pregnancies for years, especially combined with herbs, sponges or withdrawing at all other times * Morgan nods (Molly) Isn't that clever? They worked together to learn this, and they pass on the information to newlywedded family members and close friends to help them plan for and space their children! * Molly smiles (Morgan) it is rather clever, aye (Molly) Beth told me because she thought now may not be a good time for you and I, and it might help us (Morgan) She's a sweet girl * Molly nods (Molly) I think I might try to see if I can discover it for myself.... though it will be hard to know what increased keenness to engage you would be like! (Morgan) how do you mean? (Molly) Well... *she smiles, whispering* I'm not sure how I could detect a rise in it when it is permanently so high anyway! * Morgan nods (Morgan) true, true (Molly) I will see what I can work out. I think there would be some avoidance or withdrawal involved at certain times * Molly folds the old calendar, putting it her her pocket * Morgan nods right * Molly smiles gently (Molly) Don't worry liebling, I am not asking anything of you at present * Morgan nods (Molly) But hopefully, at some point in the future, things will be better again * Morgan nods (Morgan) I'm sure it will * Molly smiles (Molly) So, a walk so I can clear my head of certain thoughts of you? * Morgan nods (Morgan) aye * Molly stands up, giving the room a last glance before nodding and heading downstairs * Morgan follows her down ** Morgan has quit (Quit: Leaving) ** You are now disconnected ------------------------------ Logging started for 192.168.1.82:#7thsea on Sunday, 15 August 2021 12:49:40 British Summer Time ------------------------------ ** You have joined #7thsea ** Morgan has joined #7thsea * Molly quickly tells Beth and Inga they are going for a walk, and then they head out of the front door. They walk in the direction of the cow field under a cloudy sky. (Molly) Strange that this is no longer my Father's farm… (Morgan) how do you feel about that? * Molly shrugs (Molly) Pleased that it is not leaving the family, off-balance that yet again a part of my life has changed * Morgan nods (Molly) It wasn't the cheapest of endeavors, but as I never expected to see that invoice money back, I am not upset by the cost *she frowns deeply regardless* (Morgan) and yet you frown... * Molly tightens her cloak around her (Molly) I am angry, about the invoice and everything surrounding it * Morgan nods (Molly) How flippant and cruel he was when we found out ths Rose had sunk. I was already angry about that, because it was mean and callous, but now I know what had happened between him being very friendly and kind to me on the Friday night, and his nastiness on Saturday morning... * Morgan nods * Molly 's eyes narrow, and again hatred is visible in her micro-expressions (Molly) Not only had he destroyed my ship, he'd also… *her jaw goes tight, hands balling at her sides* (Morgan) he's going to pay for it * Molly nods, breathing slowly (Molly) No, I'm not going to let myself think about what he did. I am concentrating on Elsie, and the baby. * Morgan nods (Morgan) good (Molly) Tonight I need to heal some scarring, and then in the next few days I need to try to heal Elsie. It isn't fair to leave her struggling, and any improvement is worthwhile. * Molly subtly clenches and flexes out her fingers, trying to let the anger go * Morgan nods (Morgan) I agree (Molly) It's going to be difficult (Morgan) in what respect? * Molly thinks "Imagine snapping a broom handle in a clean split. Fairly easy to put back together and make solid again..." * Molly watches him (Molly) Now imagine the same snap, but the broom has been left outside in the rain for weeks. The broken wood has become waterlogged and swollen. You cannot just put it back together and bind the snap, because there's too much useless wood there. It wouldn't be a stable fix * Morgan nods (Molly) So what I need to establish is how and where to remove the waterlogged wood to make a clean join. If I get it wrong, and take too much, or the wrong way, the broom could end up more unusable. * Morgan nods (Molly) This is why I've needed to read so much, and why I need to experiment with scar tissue. It's completely new to me. * Morgan nods (Morgan) makes sense (Molly) All fresh healing seems to be quite simple... as is harming. *she watches him sadly* * Morgan nods * Molly frowns a little (Molly) Is something the matter? You are very quiet... (Morgan) Not exactly... mostly I'm letting you work through the process of what needs to be done * Molly nods, taking his hand (Molly) I think I may need to harm Elsie before I can heal her... * Morgan nods (Morgan) work around the scarring instead of with it? (Molly) Remove it too, perhaps... * Morgan nods (Molly) It is risky... (Morgan) isn't it always * Molly smiles (Molly) True. (Molly) She won't feel it though (Morgan) good (Morgan) I'd really like her not to suffer any further (Molly) As would I. She's paid a price she should never have had to. Just like when I shot you the other day *she looks embarrassed*... I can make it so she won't have any sensations where I need to work * Morgan nods (Morgan) good * Molly nods (Molly) I had not tried that until I shot you... * Molly smiles slightly (Morgan) so I was injured and your test subject... * Molly smiles more (Molly) Really it was quite fortunate indeed that I hit you (Morgan) quite fortunate... * Molly squeezes his hand (Molly) I'll endeavour to stop feeling bad about it (Morgan) if you could also endeavour to not do it again, that would be appreciated * Molly seems to think (Molly) But what if I need to learn something? (Morgan) I'd rather not get shot again... (Molly) I can only try. *she giggles* (Morgan) at the least, make it so I don't feel it... I'd more or less forgotten how unpleasant being shot is (Molly) I think the last time before this was the day before you first proposed, wasn't it? * Morgan nods * Molly touches the mark on her cheek bone (Molly) I've only been shot once * Morgan nods (Molly) I should imagine you would be a little put out were that to happen again? (Morgan) A little... * Molly smiles, nodding (Molly) Just a little... * Morgan nods (Molly) **They walk companionably and quietly a while, til Molly starts watching one of the cows. "She needs a bit more milking. Can you see how one of her teats looks a little distended?" * Morgan looks (Morgan) aye * Molly hitches her skirt, climbing over the gate (Molly) Did you milk cows as a farm hand? (Morgan) once or twice, but I mostly did things that required strength (Molly) That does not surprise me, my love. Are you coming with me? * Morgan flings himself over the gate * Molly smiles and goes to the cow. She talks softly, patting it before crouching next to the animal. (Molly) Does it trouble you that I dealt with the purchase of Sunnymeade alone? (Morgan) Not at all... I'm rather proud that you did * Molly wraps her index and forefinger around the base of the swollen teat and gently squeezes (Molly) You are? * Morgan nods * Molly next squeeze through her middle, ring and little fingers, and loosening again back up in reverse order. There's a few times of this clenching a releasing before the first spurt of milk hits the grass (Molly) I wondered that you might feel excluded from it all (Morgan) I think it was necessary for you to deal with it yourself, both from your own point of view and to show your family you're capable of ushc (Morgan) such* * Molly nods (Molly) You do not think it too much money to spend on something I do not even own? (Molly) **the milk flows fast now. She's paying little attention, the process so familiar (Morgan) I don't know it would have been my choice, but its your money (Molly) Most husbands would not tolerate so.much being spent * Morgan shrugs (Morgan) I'm not most husbands... (Molly) Very true. Most would certainly not like their wives having enough wealth to control their own lives * Morgan nods (Morgan) I know * Molly watches the stream a moment (Molly) Does _that_ trouble you? (Morgan) not particularly (Molly) Good. I am not going anywhere, even if I easily could. (Morgan) I'm pleased to hear that * Molly finishes what she is doing, drying her hands on her skirt, and pats the cow again (Molly) You doubted it? (Morgan) No... but its nice to be told * Molly smiles, standing up (Molly) What did you pull Heinzharold from breakfast for? (Morgan) When I took Varick to him, he yelled at me that we'd agreed not to do something... I didn't know what he meant, so I pulled him to ask him (Molly) What was it? (Morgan) He thought I was interrupting them purposefully (Molly) Oh, they were... ? *she smiles a little* (Morgan) apparently so * Molly heads back to the gate (Molly) Thatbis unfortunate timing * Morgan nods (Morgan) necessary though * Molly nods (Molly) Was he cross? (Morgan) Once he realised I wasn't being an ass, no * Molly nods (Molly) I'm glad * Morgan nods (Molly) It would be most impractical if everyone purposefully interrupted each other all the time. Living together on the ship makes it challenging sometimes * Morgan nods (Morgan) aye, it does (Molly) I should imagine that is even worse on a ship full of sailors... * Morgan nods (Morgan) aye, it definitely is * Molly nods, blushing a little. She climbs back over the gate * Morgan follows her (Molly) I wonder if Beth might know about how to work out exactly when we might expect Elsie's baby to arrive (Morgan) I wouldn't be surprised (Molly) Nine months... so November? * Molly takes his hand again * Morgan nods (Molly) Perhaps it might share your birthday? * Morgan shrugs (Morgan) maybe (Molly) If I can save Elsie, that would be nice, wouldn't it? * Morgan nods (Morgan) very (Molly) I would like to give you something nice for your birthday (Morgan) You already have (Molly) Have I? * Morgan nods (Morgan) you... Varick... * Molly smiles (Molly) I did not give you Varick, sadly. I wish he _was_ ours by birth (Morgan) I couldn't have him in my life if it weren't for you * Molly frowns slightly (Molly) You do not think so? (Morgan) No... I wouldn't be here if it weren't for you. I'd have found my death somehow (Morgan) or still be shouting at people who think they're better than me * Molly brings his hand to her mouth, kissing his knuckles (Molly) The former I will accept. The latter is just lack of opportunity lately *she smiles* (Morgan) you may have a point there * Molly nods (Molly) It is Heinzharold's birthday in a few weeks, isnt it? * Morgan nods (Molly) Perhaps we should think what he would like? (Morgan) Retribution, I would imagine... he's gone from being his lovable oaf self to full planning HeinzHarold (Molly) Is that a sign he is distressed? (Morgan) He's... having a few issues doing his marital duty since learning about it * Molly is quiet a moment (Molly) How much does he know? (Morgan) Pretty much everything... * Molly nods a little (Molly) I wish I had not said anything. (Morgan) It needed to be said. I would not have you bearing that alone (Molly) I would not have it affecting him so fundamentally (Morgan) Is thats what bothering you? Inga wouldn't tell me, said it'd mean betraying a confidence * Molly watches the gathering clouds (Molly) No, because I have not told her how Elsie's harm is connected to me. I do not want her or anyone else looking at me and thinking of those horrible things happening * Morgan nods (Morgan) she was asking what was upsetting HeinzHarold so much... he doesn't want her knowing, so I had to let her know that his reaction is entirely reasonable... * Molly nods (Molly) It is understandable. It's horrible. Noone should have to endure it. * Morgan nods (Molly) I could speak to her, give her reassurance that whatever is happening with him intimately is not her fault? (Morgan) I've already dealt with it * Molly nods (Molly) I am surprised she told you there were issues. That's incredibly private, and I am not sure she would even have told me (Morgan) She didn't... he told me after breakfast... * Molly nods, heading towards the house again (Molly) That makes more sense * Molly frowns * Morgan nods, watching her (Molly) I am not sure what she means about betraying a confidence. I do not think I have really confided anything as such for some time * Morgan sighs (Morgan) the only way I could reassure her of his reaction without revealing anything he does not want her knowing, was to tell her what my reaction was... she said it might not be wise to let you know what it was, but wouldn't tell me why because it'd be betraying a confidence. * Molly frowns (Molly) I'm sorry, I haven't a clue what she means. Shall I speak to her? * Morgan shrugs (Morgan) if you wish (Molly) **It suddenly starts to pour it down. They have the option of ducking into the barn where the hayloft is, or running for the house** * Molly looks to him for his decision * Morgan steps into the barn * Molly follows him, watching the rain with a shake of her head (Molly) Avalon! (Morgan) Some things never change * Molly nods. It's very heavy, and seems to be persisting (Molly) I suspect we'll be here a while * Morgan nods (Morgan) its either that or get soaked * Molly nods (Molly) We dont have enough clothes with us for that (Morgan) no... (Molly) **the wind picks up, cold and autumnal (Molly) Shall we sit up in the warm then? * Morgan nods (Morgan) why not * Molly leads the way to the hidey hole. It's warmer here, but the rain drums down. She makes herself comfortable, but is obviously puzzling over something (Morgan) something on your mind? (Molly) Yes. Trying to think what Inga meant * Morgan shrugs (Molly) I am not sure why it might be wise not to tell me something * Molly watches him, how he's sat, trying to read his expression and body language * Morgan is still fidgeting to get comfortable * Molly makes herself as small as she can to give him most space to * Morgan finally settles down * Molly moves as she was when they talked about whether Jana called him Papa, her head on his chest. She listens to how hard and fast his heart is * Morgan is obviously fairly calm (Molly) Perhaps she thinks I would be scared by your anger, but I assure you I've given her no reason to think it * Morgan shrugs (Morgan) maybe (Molly) It troubles you that she might think that? (Morgan) No, because I don't think thats it (Molly) What _do_ you think then? (Morgan) I'm not entirely sure... I'm certain you don't fear my anger at all, so you needn't worry about that * Molly nods (Molly) I am... wary of earning your displeasure, but not afraid of your anger. * Morgan nods * Molly looks up at him (Molly) And you, my love, are you afraid of _my_ anger? (Morgan) No, I can't say I am... but I'm not afraid of much * Molly nods, putting her head back down (Molly) Losing me, losing Varick, schattenmann, forests (Morgan) I'm not afraid of forests... just... very uncomfortable... and wary... and anxious, perhaps * Molly strokes his chest soothingly (Molly) That's understandable * Morgan nods (Morgan) I know (Molly) **The rain continues unabated** (Molly) Do you think Heinzharold's issue will resolve itself? (Morgan) I hope so... maybe (Molly) So do I. Maybe I can use magic if it is needed? (Morgan) maybe. I think he'd be furious that I told you (Molly) Would you be, if he told Inga something like that? * Morgan nods (Morgan) probably * Molly nods (Molly) Perhaps if he mentions it again you might at least suggest that you think I would help if asked? (Morgan) I'll do that * Molly nods (Molly) I only want to help (Morgan) I know blossom (Molly) Does he know about her hair and my name? * Morgan nods * Molly sighs softly (Molly) Alright, liebling (Molly) Does Claudia know too? (Morgan) The very basics (Molly) Not the worst things? (Morgan) no... (Morgan) she knows he used your name * Molly nods, holding him just a little tighter (Molly) Alright * Molly sighs (Molly) I'm sorry * Morgan frowns (Morgan) what for? (Molly) You had the measure of him and his interest in me within days of us meeting him, and I always dismissed it. I should have trusted your instinct more * Morgan shrugs (Morgan) you had no reason to (Molly) I should have. You had my best interests at heart (Morgan) but you didn't know that (Molly) I knew you had an animosity for him, I suppose I thought it was mostly because he was arrogant and frustrating * Morgan nods * Molly shudders (Molly) And to think, I met up with him in Starke only six weeks ago, completely alone! I was even unimpressed that Sorgi had been asked to follow me! * Morgan nods (Molly) I think that is one of the worst parts of it where it relates to me. I was alone with him so many times... I wouldn't have even seen it coming... * Morgan nods (Molly) And every single moment he spoke to me after that night, he knew _that_. He knew what he had symbolically done. And I just stood there like a bloody idiot, clueless. Smiling, being kind, and... **she draws in a shuddery breath** * Morgan sits quietly, an arm around her * Molly squares her shoulders against him (Molly) I hate that. I hate that he could stand in front of me and know that, and think that and.... God he has to die. (Morgan) he's going to * Molly nods (Molly) I don't let myself imagine being in her place. I refuse to. But that constant and continual thought of those many, many times I spoke to him after that when he had done _that_ beneath my name... * Molly sighs heavily * Morgan nods (Molly) I _hate_ him, in a way I did not think I could ever hate anyone. More than I ever hated Alarice. * Morgan nods (Morgan) I know (Molly) Do you feel the same? (Molly) I suppose though, you have had more reasons to hate people than I (Morgan) and yet here I am, feeling more vitriol than I have before * Molly glances at him with a slight frown (Molly) More than Edward? * Morgan nods (Morgan) much (Molly) That's... a lot. * Morgan nods (Morgan) I wanted to kill Edward... and his actions were not out of cruelty... (Molly) But you did not know that until recently (Morgan) No, but even then... * Molly nods (Morgan) I wanted to kill him... * Molly nods (Molly) Yes * Morgan shrugs slightly (Morgan) he'd always been honest about his objections... but this... * Molly nods (Molly) Even last week in Avebury, he was still being solicitous, flirty. *her jaw tenses against his chest* He was on top of me, with a sword to my solar plexus in a duel, because I am an idiot. (Morgan) even I did not see that cruelty... I'm going to make him pay * Molly nods (Molly) He needs to. For Elsie and the child, and also because I have never felt so forcibly stripped bare as I do when I consider everything since that night where he is involved (Morgan) he's going to (Molly) I have no doubt of that. (Molly) I am sorry, I should not be putting upon you this way * Morgan frowns (Morgan) nonsense (Molly) It must hard hard for you too (Molly) Be* (Morgan) To know that I repeatedly failed you? To know that had he feared me as others do, Elsie wouldn't be suffering? To know my instincts about him were incorrect but I was unable to convince anyone of it? * Molly moves up, looking at him seriously (Molly) You did not fail me. (Morgan) horseshit (Molly) How? (Morgan) I left you with him. Ten days ago, you were underneath him.... I should've damn well put my foot down. (Molly) You did not want to be controlling or constrain me * Morgan scowls (Morgan) and it could've gotten you killed (Molly) But it _didn't_. (Morgan) no... (Molly) I appreciate that is how you feel. I do not wish to belittle how hard that must feel * Molly watches him with both compassion and solemnity * Morgan nods slightly (Molly) I could spend much time trying to persuade you that you are wrong, but I am not sure that will help you (Morgan) No, it will not (Molly) So tell me what I can do, my love. Tell me what you need * Morgan watches her a moment (Morgan) I need you to stay behind * Molly gently strokes his hair, the raindrops not so gently stroking the roof * Molly nods (Molly) Then you shall have it. I will stay behind (Morgan) Thank you blossom. I will extract the price he must pay (Molly) I know you will... * Molly watches him intently (Molly) Just... stay safe for me. I _need_ you with me. (Morgan) I will... * Molly nods, watching him with a little frown, the back of her knuckles now stroking the stubble on his cheek (Molly) I am sorry that I failed you by ever having anything to do with him. I should have cut all contact with him entirely the moment I saw the look on your face at my hand in his at the monestary (Morgan) It would have made things easier, no doubt * Molly nods sadly (Molly) I'm sorry (Morgan) You need not be. I had no claim to you then (Molly) You did, you just did not know it. You were the man my heart belonged to. * Morgan nods * Molly moves, kissing him softly. It's almost chaste in its tenderness, there's no hurry or passion in it, it's just loving and cherishing (Molly) You will always be the man my heart belongs to, no matter what happens * Morgan nods (Morgan) I'm pleased to hear that * Molly nods, drawing away a little (Molly) Is there anything else I can say or do that would comfort you? (Morgan) No blossom (Molly) You always bring me so much comfort, and I so little to you (Morgan) Nonsense... I just take comfort from you being here (Molly) I do not really understand how. It always seems that I am doing nothing * Morgan shrugs (Morgan) I dont have to understand it to accept it * Molly smiles a little (Molly) And therefore nor do I? * Morgan shrugs (Molly) How will you manage without me if- _when_ I stay behind? * Molly sounds serious rather than playful (Morgan) I will manage because I must * Molly nods (Molly) It will be hard * Morgan nods (Morgan) aye (Molly) Do you think he will still be in Avalon? * Morgan shrugs (Morgan) I hope so (Molly) But if he is not, you will go until you find him, wherever that is, no matter how long it takes... (Morgan) he needs to be stopped (Molly) And if that's _months_? (Morgan) You would prefer I let him get away? * Molly sighs (Molly) No. And even if I did, 'twould make no difference (Morgan) its _right_ to deal with him (Molly) I know. And you do what is right, no matter the hardship or cost (Morgan) it needs to be the case now (Molly) But it is also who you are, what you are. It's is an inherent part of you * Morgan nods (Morgan) I'm afraid so (Molly) I am not. I love that about you. * Morgan nods (Morgan) even though it causes us to be apart? (Molly) I will miss you most painfully, but I will endure. You would not be you without your sense of honour and justice * Morgan nods (Molly) And me? You will miss me also? *she smiles gently* * Morgan nods (Morgan) endlessly (Molly) I will not let you go without kissing you goodbye this time, not like in Freiburg. This time I get my romantic goodbye. *she smiles* (Molly) **the rain intensifies above them** * Morgan nods (Morgan) of course * Molly nods (Molly) I will stay behind. I am not trying to argue about it... (Morgan) I know (Molly) ...but I do need to understand _why_ it is so important, and _how_ it will help (Morgan) Varick will need you... and there's a greater chance of my getting hurt if I'm distracted worrying about you getting hurt (Molly) It is as simple as that? * Morgan shrugs (Morgan) in the main, yes (Molly) Then don't just tell me the main. Take this moment where I have been very vulnerable with you about how knowing what he did has left me feeling naked, and open up with me...? (Morgan) I've already told you. I don't want you seeing the lengths I'll go to (Molly) Because you think I will think less of you? * Morgan nods (Morgan) and I don't want you to fear me (Molly) I would never fear you. *she thinks* Unless you were saying you did not love me or loved other women. Then I would fear that. * Molly settles back down on his cheat (Molly) Chest* (Morgan) That is not anything you need to fear * Molly nods (Molly) Then there is _nothing_ I would fear. * Morgan nods slightly (Molly) But liebling, won't you need me once it is done? (Morgan) I've no doubt, but that need must not outweigh my need for you to be safe and out of harms way (Molly) Won't you feel guilt, and self-doubt, and things like that? (Morgan) probably (Molly) And won't you _need_ to have me there to comfort you or reason with you? (Morgan) It will have to wait * Molly sighs (Molly) My heart hurts even at the idea of you hurting and not being able to come to me with it (Morgan) I'm sorry blossom, but thats the way it must be * Molly nods (Molly) I am not trying to dissuade you (Morgan) its sounding like it (Molly) No. I have asked you what you need. You have told me you need to go without me. That is decided. I simply must understand and be able to discuss it * Molly closes her eyes, listening to the rain and his heartbeat (Molly) It is a done deal. You will go, I will wait, he will die, and then we will be together once more, and this horror will be behind us. * Morgan nods (Morgan) indeed * Molly yawns (Molly) How long until the rain stops, do you think? * Morgan shrugs (Morgan) I've no idea (Molly) Mmmhmm * Molly is quiet then, and about a minute later she sighs a little, nestling closer to him, and falls asleep (Molly) **the rain has lessened, though not stopped, about ten minutes later when HH gives the whistle that means "okay to come in?" (Morgan) come in HeinzHarold * Molly stirs, sitting up (Molly) Sorry liebling, my lack of sleep last night must have caught up with me * Morgan nods (Morgan) its fine blossom (Molly) **HH climbs up the loft ladder** Everyone was startin' to wonder where you were, so I volunteered t' check.you were alright. Did say you'd be somewhere safe an' dry * Morgan nods (Morgan) we were talking then someones late night caught up with her (Molly) *he nods* Letter indoors for y', Molly * Molly nods. She gets out of the hidey hole, following HH down the ladder. He has the good sense to avert his eyes rather than look at her bottom (Molly) **he puts a hat and coat on her before offering Morgan one * Morgan takes one (Molly) **When they return, the rain has drawn them all the family into a now-noisy house. There's a note waiting for Molly. Caro hands it to her** From John Dagget, it looks like. Came about twenty minutes ago. (Molly) HH $Everything alright?$ * Molly takes the note over to the fire, settling in a comfortable chair there whilst Caro and Beth make even more tea. There's still a lot of excited chat about what Beth and Pete will do and change on the farm * Morgan nods (Morgan) $talked. All good$ (Molly) $Good. Hayloft in the pouring rain. If it wasnt for all this bullshit I'd congratulate you$ * Morgan nods slightly (Molly) $bit risky for Saint Morgan of Puritytown anyway$ *he smiles slightly * (Morgan) $ask claudia about that$ (Molly) **The big grin that comes to HH's face is both a welcome reprieve from his seriousness as well as unnerving. He keeps his eyes on Morgan when he says aloud "Hey, Claudia...?" (Molly) **HH watches to see Morgan's reaction** * Morgan watches him calmly (Molly) C: what? (Molly) HH, in Avalonian: There's a hayloft here... *still watching* * Morgan tilts his head slightly, waiting (Molly) C: And? (Molly) HH, Avalonian: Morgan wants me to ask you about it (Molly) *HH and everyone else are now watching Morgan* * Molly is the only one who isnt, busy reading (Molly) C: **she glances at Morgan and HH, speaking Eisen** what are you pair up to, and why am I being involved? (Morgan) Oh, poor HeinzHarold, getting the wrong end of a stick and running with it (Molly) C, Avalonian: it's a loft with hay in it (Morgan) $He's trying to embarrass me, saying I'm too puritanical to make use of a hayloft$ (Molly) C: *she snorts, and gestures to HH* $You are not gonna believe some of the things he will tell you later!$ (Molly) HH grins: $I bet this one time he even did it on a couch!$ * Morgan wanders over to make some tea * Molly folds the letter back up ** You are now disconnected (Ping timeout) ------------------------------ Logging started for 192.168.1.82:#7thsea on Sunday, 15 August 2021 19:03:16 British Summer Time ------------------------------ ** You have joined #7thsea (Molly) **Beth gives him a cup of tea, then takes some to HH and Inga** * Molly is watching the flames in the fireplace thoughtfully (Morgan) [are you alright?] (Molly) [Yes, liebling] (Molly) **Everyone is bustling around him, children and adults. * Morgan finds a corner to stand in, sipping his tea (Morgan) [sure?] (Molly) [Yes, just thinking about John and the christening (Molly) **Varick goes to sit in Molly's lap, chatting away to her. She hugs him to her** * Morgan watches them (Molly) [It will be quite early, I think we should stay again and perhaps ask the Ketch to collect us anything we need from the Rose?] (Morgan) [if you wish] * Molly informs her siblings about the Christening and they discuss who will go and stay, and what to do with the children, whilst Molly gets some notes sorted. Claudia and HH ride to Tawstock with them. * Molly looks at the paintings on the table, smiling slightly (Molly) Have you seen these, liebling? * Morgan nods (Morgan) aye, I have (Molly) I wish I had inherited his talent (Morgan) have you tried recently? * Molly 's lips quirk in amusement (Molly) Only one of a stream we sat under the tree beside... * Molly glances at his expression * Morgan nods (Molly) ((Does he blush?)) (Morgan) ((no)) (Molly) **she frowns slightly* I think it's my drawing that's the problem, rather than the brush work (Morgan) think so? * Molly nods (Molly) It's tough to say. I haven't devoted much time to it. *she sips her tea* (Morgan) \/me nods, sipping his coffee * Molly points to the one of her biological grandmother (Molly) This is Sophie I think * Morgan nods (Morgan) aye it is (Molly) She was very pretty * Morgan nods (Morgan) aye (Molly) It was sweet how my grandfather had said about believing in God because of her eyes * Morgan nods, smiling slightly (Molly) You can see from how it is painted how much he adored her (Morgan) there's a bit more too it than that (Molly) You think so? *she sips her tea, focused on the painting* * Morgan nods (Molly) What might that be? (Morgan) The slightly ethereal quality... its a common thing in portraits of loved ones that have been lost * Molly nods slowly (Molly) Yes, that makes sense * Morgan nods (Molly) Is it also a style that people just choose, or from a particular artist? (Morgan) Generally... no (Molly) Mmhmm *she sips her tea looking at the painting again** It makes her seem almost too good to be true * Morgan nods (Molly) When you sketch Eliza, will it be like this? (Morgan) No... I don't think it'll help any, I think he'd prefer one that shows her as she was * Molly nods thoughtfully (Molly) I think he would too * Morgan nods (Molly) The little painting Otto has is like this * Morgan nods (Morgan) I know (Molly) But it must have been done before? (Morgan) how do you mean? (Molly) It wasn't painted from another painting? **she has never been told about the shrine otto and sascha have of things pulled from the wreckage including the original Holbein large version with its charred frame* (Morgan) It was * Molly frowns slightly (Molly) Is the original this same style? ((Your call, I dont know if I said either way!)) (Morgan) No, it isn't * Molly nods (Molly) I see * Molly sips her tea (Molly) You must have had many sketches at some point (Morgan) a fair few, aye * Molly nods (Molly) I can understand not being able to face keeping them (Morgan) the majority were in the cottage * Molly nods * Molly points to the other woman (Molly) I think this is Margaret, his second wife * Morgan nods * Molly looks at the painting a moment before moving on to the one of Sophie and Shep on the sand dunes (Molly) I dreamt this, just with you and I * Morgan nods (Molly) That's quite sweet, isn't it? * Morgan nods (Morgan) aye (Molly) If he'd lived, there may have been some of me as a child * Molly sips her tea, glancing at him over the rim * Morgan nods (Morgan) possibly (Molly) Instead I shall have to settle for the sketches of me as an adult * Morgan nods (Morgan) I'm afraid so * Molly is subtly watching for the signs of this making him blush, or his pupils dilate, or anything else that would imply it sexually relevant * Molly finishes her tea (Molly) I'm going to help with lunch * Morgan nods (Morgan) alright blossom (Molly) **With a note from Catherine to say after two would suit and Kurt should be there, they leave just after lunch to give them plenty of time to get there, with Molly mostly riding beside Inga and Varick with Morgan. The journey from Sunnymeade to Lady Catherine's is more than an hour with the village about half way between. (Molly) **They arrive at Lower Tawstock with time to spare, so Molly suggests they go into Mr Jameson's clothes shop for a dress for the Christening, a new dress for Inga to thank her for looking after Varick so much, and more clothes for the growing boy. (Molly) **Claudia waits outside, and HH stands with Morgan, watching as Molly and Inga flutter around the shop. Mr Jameson waits on them hand and foot, and the man that made the red dress at Morgan's request bows politely to him** (Molly) J: Good afternoon, Master Hockridge. I hope you are well. (Morgan) Mr Jameson... (Molly) J: If I had known you would be wanting more dresses, I would have made some especially, like the red one last summer. (Morgan) If I had known before we arrived here, I would have sent word... (Molly) **Jameson gets called by Molly. HH looks at Morgan** Wear yer red dress often, d' ya? ** You're now known as HH (Morgan) Only to church * HH sniggers (HH) Sunday the day af'er tomorrow (Morgan) I don't do church here (HH) Why? (Morgan) church of avalon is... oppressive * HH shrugs (HH) Won't be seein' you in yer dress then (Morgan) No, I'm afraid not (HH) Varick joins them a little while later: We picked my clothes, but this is booooooring. * Morgan nods (Morgan) aye (HH) V: Why do women take so long to pick dresses? (HH) You can limit it t' three if yer clever about it (Morgan) but sometimes... its worth it for the happiness it gives them... (HH) **Varick groans (HH) **Molly comes out to show Morgan. The dress is nicely made but a plain lilac cotton, and somewhat similar to what Dietlinde had made herself for Jana's christening. Molly looks for approval in his expression * HH glances at Morgan, but says nothing * Morgan nods (Morgan) thats very nice (HH) **Molly nods** There's a nice blue one I could show you too? (Morgan) If you wish to blossom (HH) **she goes to do so* (HH) Want me t' praise the blue one a bit? (Morgan) not too floridly if you don't mind (HH) Damn, that's my regular praisin' (HH) V: is Heinzharold allowed to say that? (Morgan) Because he's a grown up, apparently * HH chuck * HH chuckles (HH) 'Parently. (HH) **Molly comes back in the blue one. It's not bad, but it isnt as nice. Regardless, HH tells her it's very fine and sets off her eyes. She looks to Morgan questioningly (HH) M: what thinks you, liebling? (Morgan) it is very nice but... I prefer the lilac I think my love... (HH) **Molly looks happy with this, and matter settled she goes back to Inga** * HH shrugs (HH) Alright then. (Morgan) what? (HH) Figured it'd be a bit like with Mary, was trying to make it easier (Morgan) Mary is difficult... this is just a dress and I don't want to make her wear a lesser dress because it reminds me... its time I stop swimming against the tide. * HH glances at Varick before gesturing $what tide?$ (Morgan) $The tide of things changing... of having to move on. Cant tread water forever$ * HH nods slightly (HH) $No going back$ * Morgan nods (HH) **purchases are made, and they get on the road once more, again with Molly and Inga riding side by side to talk, and up to Lady Torrington's** (HH) **The atmosphere is entirely different when they get there today. Sam the groom is formal and deferential, and "Your Grace"s him. The horses are taken by stable hands outside the stable, rather than them going in it as usual. Molly keeps an eye on him, and holds his hand supportively. ** You're now known as Molly * Molly speaks quietly (Molly) It's so strange, isnt it? * Morgan nods slightly (Molly) ** Inside the house, the butler he met on Wednesday is also very formal, asking Morgan to identify his companions. (Morgan) my wife... my son, Freiarr of Koln... Sir Lehenstrue and his wife and our friend Claudia (Molly) B: Lady Torrington is with a guest at present, I will find out if she is available (Morgan) Lieutenant Cristoban? (Molly) B: Yes, your Grace * Morgan nods (Morgan) Yes, I've come to see him too (Molly) B: I will pass that along, your Grace. You and your companions will wait here, someone will bring you refreshments *he goes in towards the rest of the house, leaving them in the dining room where a footman watches them and a maid serves them* * Molly is quite neutral as she looks around, and even Varick is sat politely in the silent dining room (Molly) [It definitely doesnt feel like home anymore.] (Morgan) [no, it doesn't (Molly) **The butler comes back a few minutes later with a slightly forced smile* She is ready for you, your Grace * Morgan watches him (Morgan) You need to practice that... or drop it altogether. You don't want people who think they're better than you thinking they make you nervous (Molly) **he gives nothing else away* Very good, your Grace. If you would follow me. * Morgan nods (Molly) B: *he leads Morgan through the very familiar corridors that were his home and patrol for years. Everything is the same except his lack of freedom to do what he wishes (Molly) **There is the sound of Catherine yelling at someone, not in danger but telling them off. The butler looks embarrassed** (Molly) **he says nothing about it, progressing in the direction of the sound* (Molly) ((Follows/says anything?)) (Morgan) Who's dealing with her Grace's safety now? (Molly) B: In general, or this moment, your Grace? (Morgan) both (Molly) Bill, and the footmen outside the doors * Morgan nods (Morgan) could be worse (Molly) **In the pink stairwell he can hear from the Great Hall** (Molly) C: Stitches, Kurt! She needed stitches! (Molly) K: *he's less loud, trying to placate her, and though his tone can be heard, his words cannot* * Morgan stops (Morgan) Inga, stay here with Varick (Molly) **she nods* * Morgan starts striding to the great hall (Molly) **Catherine and Kurt are alone in there. He's back in his Schwert Von Dornen uniform and disgustingly handsome. Catherine looks dressed up but very cross, waving around a letter * Morgan closes the door behind him (Morgan) I do trust I'm not interrupting ** You're now known as Kurt * Kurt bows (Kurt) Your Grace (Kurt) C: Good afternoon Morgan * Morgan nods slightly (Morgan) Your Grace... Are we discussing the report from your physician? (Kurt) C: Yes we are. (Morgan) You were saying stitches... * Kurt stands formally and serious (Kurt) **Catherine hands Morgan the report * Morgan reads it (Kurt) **It is greatly toned down. It lists Extensive Damage (leading to loss of appropriate bodily function, repaired with stitches, and scarring) caused by unnatural acts of intimacy and brutality. It also states that she is pregnant with the conception believed to have been at the time of the attack, with a certainty that the baby will need to be removed manually by cutting the dead mother open. It estimates the baby's chance of survival at twenty percent, the mothers zero. (Morgan) Ah... sit down Kurt, your Grace... I'm afraid this doesn't tell the whole story... perhaps you'd both like to get some brandy... (Kurt) **brandy is called for, chairs are taken, but whatever affection Catherine held for Kurt is no longer in evidence (Morgan) Where shall we start? * Kurt and Catherine wait (Morgan) While this is indeed factual, its not... accurate. Nowhere here does it tell of how he forced himself into her rear without any caution for her... nor how he used his _whole hand_ upon her... This was not someone getting over the top. It was sheer cruelty, punishing this girl because he could not punish the one he wished to. * Kurt pales noticeably whilst Catherine looks a little confused about the acts in question (Kurt) I did not know that, I swear it. (Morgan) have you met her, Lieutenant? (Kurt) No, I have not (Morgan) I have... when he _attacked_ her... her hair was red... what do you suppose the significance of that is? (Kurt) **both sets of eyes go wide** (Morgan) Where is he Kurt? (Kurt) I don't know. (Morgan) You're going to find out, and you're going to tell me. Aren't you... (Kurt) It is certainly a matter I am willing to discuss with you. (Morgan) Your Grace, perhaps you would like to meet my son while the Lieutenant and I have a... discussion (Kurt) C: *she watches them both a moment* Where would I find him? (Morgan) oh, I wouldn't dream of moving you in your own home... we'll go somewhere else (Kurt) **She nods** Perhaps outside somewhere away from the house * Morgan smiles slightly * Kurt stands, finishing his brandy (Morgan) certainly. I'll just fetch them (Kurt) **He faintly catches- (Kurt) I am sorry, Catherine, I didnt know how bad it was * Morgan goes back to Molly and the others (Morgan) ready? (Kurt) **Molly smiles, taking Varicks hand** We are, my love * Morgan motions with his head, moving back to the great hall (Kurt) **The introductions are smooth. As expected, Catherine seems to have an eye for Heinzharold who is basically mimicking Edward's mannerisms. Inga looks polite rather than jealous. Claudia does the bare minimum as usual, and Varick has lots of questions about Morgan fighting monsters here. * Kurt opens the door for Morgan * Morgan heads through it (Kurt) **They go left and out across the lawns, where they are away from others but can still see the main doors** (Kurt) I didn't know. * Morgan looks at him (Morgan) The judgement sits on what you do now... * Kurt watches him right back * Kurt has reverted to talking Eisen (Kurt) Kai has gone AWOL. (Morgan) he was in Avebury ten days ago (Kurt) I know. I received your letter. That is why I am here early (Morgan) why? (Kurt) To let you know that operatives are going to look for Kai's sister, as well as following leads out of Avebury (Morgan) He's mine... you understand? * Kurt nods (Kurt) As soon as the Order is done with him. * Morgan grabs him, pulling him close (Morgan) He called her Molly, Kit... Find the sister and accept that this monster's time has come * Kurt doesn't struggle, but not does he look scared. He does however look deeply disgusted at the first part (Kurt) If the child survives, it has a stronger claim (Morgan) Thats lovely and beside the point (Morgan) I can make him go away and never be found... no-one knows where he is anyway (Kurt) His death needs to be verified, and the succession of his sister or biological child must be in place, for the good of Prachtig on the Konigsreich of Hainzl. (Morgan) You can have his head * Kurt nods (Kurt) That will satisfy the first (Morgan) You will meet this girl... Elsie... every time you think of keeping him alive, I want you to see her face (Morgan) knowing that what he did to her was because he couldn't do it to Molly * Kurt nods (Kurt) I am sorry this girl got hurt, and that I did not know the full extent of it. (Morgan) I don't care for your apologies... if you and the order couldn't keep him from doing this, whats the fucking point of you (Kurt) There was no indication of this, Morgan. There is no history of such barbarism. Irrational flares of temper, yes, but not this. (Morgan) I'm going to deal with him, there is no discussion to be had about that, as and when I can (Kurt) We need to wait until we have a signed and witness Will with succession. (Morgan) Keep pushing me and there is no we... * Kurt frowns (Kurt) You would leave the Order ? (Morgan) What good is it if we allow this, if we only punish it once it is convenient. I wanted to kill him ten days ago, and I easily could have, but didn't.... but this, this is too far. * Kurt nods (Kurt) I will tell you when he has been found and when the Will is in place. We believe his sister is alive. (Morgan) If I catch him first, he dies. * Kurt looks at him (Kurt) We need to secure Prachtig. Do you know what Salzburg did when he took Karlsruhe? (Morgan) Given that the man is my friend, yes, I do... and Dau did exactly the same to Elsie... but fine, stay here while I get Molly and let _you_ explain to _her_ why justice cannot be served quickly. (Kurt) If Salzburg takes Prachtig, more people will die, more rapes will happen. She will wish to protect other women and their children, I am sure. We need another three months to rid the area of Salzburg cleanly without a power vacuum. In the meantime, a Will protects Prachtig. * Morgan shoves him away, hard (Morgan) Go and fucking ask her * Kurt stumbles slightly (Kurt) I understand your anger (Morgan) You have no idea... In fact, lets go and ask her now, and Lady Torrington, what they think of this... (Kurt) I do not think it is in the interests of the Order for Lady Torrington to know (Morgan) Right now Kit, the interests of the order lie entirely in placating me, before I tear it to the ground (Kurt) That is a very weighty threat to make (Morgan) Then you understand the weight of what you are seeking. We want the same thing, but it cannot be at the expense of girls like Elsie, otherwise you are no better than him. (Kurt) No, I appreciate that (Kurt) All efforts must be bent to finding him. Our difference is in having his Will signed by him and an official before he dies. His death is acceptable, but we would need verification. For example, a solemn vow of another nobleman were he killed in a duel. (Morgan) I've no doubt you have many that would say that if you wished it (Kurt) Then if you find him first you will get his Will officiated before he is dead? (Morgan) Someone like Dreschler would suffice (Kurt) You suggest that we falsify it? * Morgan nods (Kurt) Because you have no intention of doing what the Order asks of you in this matter? (Morgan) It would make things... quicker (Kurt) We aim to have the sister from Roquetas De Mar and into Prachtig within the week. (Morgan) How would you expect me to get Dau to sign a will? (Kurt) The seeds (Morgan) I want him, and I want him soon. If the sister is alive, Will or not, she takes Prachtig upon his death? (Kurt) In theory. It could be disputed, which would make Salzburg more likely to annexe (Morgan) and the child? (Kurt) The child is a new complication we were unaware of (Kurt) Kai would need to officially acknowledge the child to make it his heir (Morgan) Thats not going to happen (Kurt) It could be done if the Order captures him (Morgan) Include it in the will... (Kurt) Indeed. And use a seed to ensure he behaves appropriately during the official signing. Then his death can occur. (Morgan) You need to sell this to Molly. (Kurt) Why? (Morgan) Its the price you need to pay for me not sailing off and butchering him and damn the consequences (Kurt) You would have to _find_ him. As do we. * Morgan smiles slightly (Morgan) You know what I did in the war? (Kurt) Yes (Kurt) Believe me that I am glad that you are also hunting for him. I just wish our priorities were more aligned (Morgan) Then stop working against me. If I catch him, I'll get a will signed before I slice him like pig... (Kurt) And you will confirm in writing that you are a Duke and you have seen him dead? * Morgan nods (Morgan) if that is required (Kurt) Then we are no longer at such crossed purposes. However, the child. (Morgan) install the sister, the child is not your concern, other than providing for it... (Kurt) The sister is to be the heir, and the child will vanish into obscurity? (Morgan) I think out of all this the child deserves a peaceful and happy life (Kurt) You do not want the child to be Freiarr or Freiarrin Prachtig? (Morgan) I want for nothing but justice (Kurt) Then the Order will make payment of three hundred guilders per year until the child reaches its majority at age twenty one where it will receive a final sum of one thousand guilders (Kurt) ((Morgan's payments from Adalbrecht as his allowance was 500G/yr)) (Morgan) I'm going to have it adopted, either by Molly's family or my own. It will be safe and loved, and out of the way of the... work. * Kurt nods (Kurt) The payments will allow the adopting family to give the child a good, safe home as is befitting of its station. Presuming, of course, that it survives at all (Morgan) I'm working on that * Kurt nods (Kurt) Very well. Then we are in agreement. We will make no attempts to hinder you (Morgan) Your... meddling with anyone else needs to be reviewed. If you've missed this, what else... (Kurt) This is so fat beyond anything I have heard of that I doubt we need to worry, but I will make the Order aware of the errors made (Kurt) Far* (Morgan) The consequences if something like this happens again or is tolerated would be... grave. (Kurt) I understand * Morgan watches him for a moment before nodding (Kurt) It is possible that Kai will come to Lady Torrington's, either soon, or at the beginning of November for her party for Lord Torringtons birthday where he and Rebecca intend to announce their engagement * Morgan nods (Morgan) I want reparations made... this place is against any Eisen person because of Dau and his crew... something needs to be done about that (Kurt) What would you suggest? (Morgan) I don't know yet... I was hoping you'd use your charm... * Kurt nods (Kurt) I already need to to persuade Catherine to let me stay for another month to be bait for Kai. However, I must decline an offer she has made of being her paramour. (Morgan) I'll make you a deal in that respect... you swear to keep her safe for that month, and I'll persuade her * Kurt nods (Kurt) I am happy with that (Kurt) Do you wish me to explain the situation to Molly? (Morgan) part of me does... simply so you see the pain its caused her (Kurt) She is aware of the depths of his depravity? (Morgan) She was giving Elsie support while she recounted it for the physician. She knows _all_ of it * Kurt nods grimly (Kurt) That is hard (Morgan) she keeps thinking of all the times she's been near him, after he did that... how he clearly wanted to do it to her... * Kurt nods briefly (Kurt) Horrific. (Morgan) I want her to understand the full weight of the situation, the reason why I cannot gut him as soon as I lay eyes on him (Kurt) If I had not been walking through the dining room when I was and seen the anger in his eyes... * Morgan nods (Morgan) You have my gratitude, but it should never have been allowed to get so far * Kurt nods (Kurt) Do you know what it was that made him so angry? (Morgan) No (Kurt) I missed it too. But he was livid when I got there, and gave me the command about the Rose as I was in the process of jollying Molly along to bed (Kurt) Perhaps he will be persuaded to reveal it? (Morgan) One way or another... * Kurt nods (Kurt) There are already operatives looking into his investments and contacts here, but we do not have many fluent Avalon speakers without accents. Perhaps a collaboration of talents might be beneficial (Morgan) If you are asking me to investigate, my station cannot be well known yet... which means I need the staff here to go back to treating me as they did * Kurt nods (Kurt) I understand, however, there ate rumours in the port of Molly being a Duchess, and having married you. I am unsure how that would be untangled (Morgan) thats gossip, not fact... (Kurt) Perhaps your friend Heinzharold could pose as her husband in public * Morgan frowns (Morgan) maybe (Kurt) He certainly looks Eisen * Morgan nods (Morgan) I'm not sure that'd go well with his wife, or mine... (Kurt) It is for the good of Eisen and the detriment of Kai. That should be persuasive (Kurt) Should I talk to Molly whilst you talk to Catherine? * Morgan nods (Morgan) probably the best idea (Kurt) **it is once he is inside and Molly is outside with Kit that she lets him see her thoughts. She's stood beside Kit, her voice very serious and sad, and she says to him "I am not angry with you, I am just deeply disappointed in you. I thought you were a better man than that. You have let me down, and also you have let Lady Torrington down" (Kurt) **Catherine comes back into the Great Hall, looking at his expression ((just about to wrap up)) * Morgan looks grim (Kurt) **she hands him some brandy** I have told the staff to let your son play on the swing in your old garden. You look like you need a drink and to take a seat. * Morgan sits down (Kurt) C: Lets talk as equals, no Your Grace nonsense. ** You are now disconnected (Ping timeout) ------------------------------ Logging started for Blitzed:#7thseaic on Monday, 16 August 2021 09:36:21 British Summer Time ------------------------------ ** You have joined #7thseaic ** You're now known as Catherine -NickServ- Welcome to Blitzed IRC Network, Catherine! Here on Blitzed IRC Network, we provide services to enable the registration of nicknames and channels! For details, type /msg NickServ help and /msg ChanServ help. (Catherine) This is a bad situation * @Morgan nods (@Morgan) yes it is ** You are now disconnected (Software caused connection abort) ------------------------------ Logging started for Blitzed:#7thseaic on Monday, 16 August 2021 09:41:40 British Summer Time ------------------------------ ** Reconnecting to irc.blitzed.org:6667… -NickServ- Welcome to Blitzed IRC Network, MollyK! Here on Blitzed IRC Network, we provide services to enable the registration of nicknames and channels! For details, type /msg NickServ help and /msg ChanServ help. ** You have joined #7thseaic (MollyK) I sent my sheriff to town, and my people are angry with me ** You're now known as Cath ** Catherine has quit (Ping timeout: 258 seconds) * @Morgan nods (Cath) How was I to know he would do something this bad? (@Morgan) its not just that... its how they've all behaved * Cath nods (Cath) I am starting to see that ** mads_ has joined #7thseaic (Cath) [09:50] (Cath) I am starting to see that ** Morgan has quit (Killed (NickServ (GHOST command used by mads_))) ** mads_ is now known as Morgan ** ChanServ sets mode(s) +o Morgan * @Morgan nods (Cath) I don't know how to fix something this bad (@Morgan) You need to be seen to not tolerate it (Cath) But how? (@Morgan) You need to publicly denounce him and his actions, and the general behaviour of his crew. Make it known that you will not tolerate that, and also that everyone is to be treated with respect until they prove unworthy of it * Cath nods (Cath) Shall I declare a town meeting? * @Morgan nods (@Morgan) thats a good idea * Cath nods (Cath) And banish everyone from their Company ? (@Morgan) No... you cant be seen to punish those that have done no harm * Cath sighs (Cath) What would happen in Eisen? * @Morgan shrugs (@Morgan) it varies from Grafdom to Grafdom (Cath) And your Father's? (@Morgan) the ringleaders would be punished, those guilty of something would be banished (Cath) And Colonel Dau? (@Morgan) Don't worry about him overmuch (Cath) [I dont suppose you could send someone out with some water?] (@Morgan) [I'll see to it] (Cath) He must be dealt with though (@Morgan) he will be (Cath) How? * @Morgan watches her (@Morgan) Could you have some water sent out to Molly? She's going to want something to drink after screaming at Kurt * Cath rings the bell and gets this dealt with before returning (Cath) He should be tried and punished here, shouldn't he? (@Morgan) I'm afraid thats not going to happen (Cath) But that would be the best way to show my people that it will not be tolerated and there is justice (@Morgan) and what punishment would you impose? (Cath) I think it would have to be execution, wouldn't it? (@Morgan) Yes, it would (Cath) But the trial would be good, as would a public execution (@Morgan) in this case, the trial is only worthwhile if you know the outcome before hand... you don't want to be responsible for holding a trial that sets him free ** You are now disconnected (Software caused connection abort) ------------------------------ Logging started for Blitzed:#7thseaic on Monday, 16 August 2021 10:23:26 British Summer Time ------------------------------ ** Reconnecting to irc.blitzed.org:6667… -NickServ- Welcome to Blitzed IRC Network, MollyK! Here on Blitzed IRC Network, we provide services to enable the registration of nicknames and channels! For details, type /msg NickServ help and /msg ChanServ help. ** You have joined #7thseaic ** Cath has quit (Read error: Connection reset by peer) ** You are now disconnected (Software caused connection abort) ------------------------------ Logging started for Blitzed:#7thseaic on Monday, 16 August 2021 10:25:33 British Summer Time ------------------------------ ** You have joined #7thseaic ** MollyK has quit (Read error: Connection reset by peer) (Molly) Then I would need to convey my instructions to the justice of the peace ** You're now known as Cath -NickServ- Welcome to Blitzed IRC Network, Cath! Here on Blitzed IRC Network, we provide services to enable the registration of nicknames and channels! For details, type /msg NickServ help and /msg ChanServ help. (Cath) ((Test)) * @Morgan nods (Cath) But Kurt doesn't know where he is (@Morgan) No... which is why he needs to stay here (Cath) I don't think I want him in my house (@Morgan) because... ** You are now disconnected (Software caused connection abort) ------------------------------ Logging started for Blitzed:#7thseaic on Monday, 16 August 2021 10:33:58 British Summer Time ------------------------------ ** Reconnecting to irc.blitzed.org:6667… -NickServ- Welcome to Blitzed IRC Network, MollyK! Here on Blitzed IRC Network, we provide services to enable the registration of nicknames and channels! For details, type /msg NickServ help and /msg ChanServ help. ** You have joined #7thseaic ** Cath has quit (Read error: Connection reset by peer) (MollyK) Because he should have _told_ me in February so I could deal with it ** You're now known as Cath * @Morgan nods (@Morgan) understandable (Cath) If he had, the people would not think I had turned my back on them (@Morgan) that is true (Cath) But you think I should let him stay? (@Morgan) I do. If nothing else, to keep you safe ** mads_ has joined #7thseaic (Cath) Why is Colonel Dau obsessed with her? ** mads_ is now known as MorganK (MorganK) he's always wanted her (Cath) He made some overtures to me back in the spring ** Morgan has quit (Ping timeout: 250 seconds) * MorganK nods (MorganK) I'm not surprised (Cath) I will have a town meeting declared for Monday. I would appreciate your attendance * MorganK nods (MorganK) with that in mind... it would be... beneficial if the staff stopped your gracing me... and I'm going to need a few hours with Dau when we find him (Cath) What for? (Cath) [Kit has recovered control of his stomach, we are ready when you are] (MorganK) preparations must be made for the stewardship of his lands * Cath nods (Cath) And then he will be tried and executed (MorganK) I think hung drawn and quartered. * Cath nods (Cath) I agree (MorganK) That would satisfy the need for retribution. You understand what I am giving up, allowing anyone but me to deal with him? (Cath) I should imagine you would prefer to deal with him yourself * MorganK nods (MorganK) more than you can imagine * Cath nods (Cath) But you think the best solution is public execution? (MorganK) I think its the best solution to show your people you have no abandoned them (Cath) But first he must be found * MorganK nods (Cath) Do you think we will find him locally? (MorganK) I wouldn't be surprised. He wasn't too far away fairly recently (Cath) I should have people looking for him (Cath) [Are you alright, my love?] (MorganK) [aye] (MorganK) I'll take care of that (Cath) Thank you, Morgan. I appreciate you helping me with this (Cath) [Kit is wanting to talk to Catherine, do you need more time] * MorganK shrugs (MorganK) I should've done a better job in the first place (MorganK) [a few minutes] (Cath) There was no indication that he could do whatever these things are to a woman (MorganK) so I keep being told (Cath) The responsibility is mine. I am their Duchess. * Cath offers him brandy again (MorganK) All that can be done is to learn the lessons and move forward * Cath nods (Cath) Can anything be done for her? (MorganK) I don't know. I'm working on it (Cath) If you write to Captain Tsaylur I am sure she will come (MorganK) for what purpose? (Cath) To heal the girl (MorganK) I think she is beyond that (Cath) Oh (Cath) And the baby? (MorganK) you saw the report... (Cath) One in five that it will survive * MorganK nods (Cath) What will happen to it if it does? (MorganK) I'm arranging adoption. The child will be supported * Cath nods (Cath) Will the girl survive until the end of her pregnancy? * MorganK shrugs (MorganK) we can hope (Cath) Where is she now? (MorganK) in the brothel still, working the kitchens (Cath) Would she be in danger if Colonel Dau returns? (MorganK) quite possibly (Cath) Should she not be moved then? * MorganK nods (MorganK) I wanted to bring her here... * Cath nods ** mads_ has joined #7thseaic (Cath) But will she be at risk here too? ** mads_ is now known as Morgan ** ChanServ sets mode(s) +o Morgan (Cath) [11:36] (Cath) But will she be at risk here too? (@Morgan) less if Kurt is staying * Cath nods (Cath) What else will she need? ** MorganK has quit (Ping timeout: 258 seconds) (@Morgan) such as? (Cath) I dont know. Personal care, a nurse? (@Morgan) I daresay that'd help, yes (Cath) I can arrange that. Will she want to come here? (@Morgan) I think it would be safest (Cath) **Molly and Kit come in the main doors. He still looks at little pale** (Cath) What about her family? (@Morgan) They abandoned her when she was younger, hence why she's in a brothel * Cath nods (Cath) How soon can you bring her here? (@Morgan) realistically, this afternoon I would think (Cath) **Molly looks at Morgan* Elsie is coming here? (@Morgan) we thought so (Cath) **Molly nods, looking at Catherine** If it suits your Grace, I will collect her in a carriage and bring her? * Cath looks at Morgan (Cath) I am happy with that, if you are? Perhaps she would prefer to stay in your old cottage than in this huge house? (@Morgan) Not the worst idea ** You are now disconnected (Software caused connection abort) ------------------------------ Logging started for Blitzed:#7thseaic on Monday, 16 August 2021 12:09:12 British Summer Time ------------------------------ ** Reconnecting to irc.blitzed.org:6667… -NickServ- Welcome to Blitzed IRC Network, Cath! Here on Blitzed IRC Network, we provide services to enable the registration of nicknames and channels! For details, type /msg NickServ help and /msg ChanServ help. ** You have joined #7thseaic ** You are now disconnected (Software caused connection abort) ------------------------------ Logging started for Blitzed:#7thseaic on Monday, 16 August 2021 12:09:52 British Summer Time ------------------------------ ** Reconnecting to irc.blitzed.org:6667… -NickServ- Welcome to Blitzed IRC Network, MollyK! Here on Blitzed IRC Network, we provide services to enable the registration of nicknames and channels! For details, type /msg NickServ help and /msg ChanServ help. ** You have joined #7thseaic ** Cath has quit (Read error: Connection reset by peer) ** You are now disconnected ------------------------------ Logging started for Blitzed:#7thseaic on Monday, 16 August 2021 12:11:39 British Summer Time ------------------------------ ** You have joined #7thseaic (Molly) C: Yes please Molly. **she rings a bell and gives instructions** * Molly looks to Morgan "Will you see me out?" (@Morgan) of course * Molly curtsies to Catherine before heading into the house * @Morgan follows her (Molly) **Theres noone in the hallway. She sighs** (Molly) I am going to take Varick and Inga to Sunnymeade. Would you rather keep Heinzharold or Claudia? (@Morgan) HeinzHarold * Molly nods (Molly) Alright. It will be a few hours before I am back with Elsie. Will this make it hard to help her? (@Morgan) I dont see why. I'm more than capable of throwing weight around (Molly) I meant healing her. And I am going to need to be here to check her progress. And it occurs to me that I could not have followed you regardless, because I have to be with Elsie until it is all over. (@Morgan) why would it make it hard to help her? (Molly) It won't be as private as on the Rose (@Morgan) You would prefer to take her there? (Molly) I had not gotten that far ** You are now disconnected (Software caused connection abort) ------------------------------ Logging started for Blitzed:#7thseaic on Monday, 16 August 2021 12:22:38 British Summer Time ------------------------------ ** Reconnecting to irc.blitzed.org:6667… -NickServ- Welcome to Blitzed IRC Network, MollyK! Here on Blitzed IRC Network, we provide services to enable the registration of nicknames and channels! For details, type /msg NickServ help and /msg ChanServ help. ** You have joined #7thseaic ** Molly has quit (Read error: Connection reset by peer) (MollyK) [12:20] (Molly) I had not gotten that far * @Morgan nods (MollyK) But she needs to be near me, doesn't she, incase the baby comes. * @Morgan nods (@Morgan) can you tell how likely it is to come early? (MollyK) I will try when I see her... * MollyK looks a little sad (MollyK) I may have to stay here with her ** mads_ has joined #7thseaic (MollyK) [12:26] (MollyK) I may have to stay here with her * mads_ nods (MollyK) I suppose it makes sense (mads_) aye (MollyK) And if you are going away anyway, you can have the Rose yhen ** Morgan has quit (Ping timeout: 258 seconds) (mads_) that would make sense * MollyK watches him a moment (MollyK) Forces that aim to keep us from the convergence? (mads_) I don't think so (MollyK) If I am to move in here for the foreseeable future, what will we do with Varick? (mads_) I don't know * MollyK nods biting her lip (MollyK) But you will be here for a few more days at least? * mads_ nods (mads_) aye * MollyK nods sadly (MollyK) Alright. And when you have to go, are you taking both Claudia and Heinzharold with you? * mads_ nods (mads_) I was thinking I would * MollyK nods. She looks like she'll cry before she squares her shoulders (MollyK) Until then, we will ask Lady Torrington to host us all here. Then we will manage here alone * mads_ nods * MollyK takes a deep breath (MollyK) I am going to send the Ketch again. I need the Innesbruck mirror and other things, if I may be here for months. I can do this. I will make arrangements. (mads_) I am hoping it will not take anything like so long * MollyK nods (MollyK) Elsie will take as long as she takes. In the mean time, I can ensure she has a happy few weeks or months in a place like this. We will endure. * mads_ nods * MollyK gets to the dining room door, leaning her head against it a moment (MollyK) Are you alright? (mads_) I will be once this is settled (MollyK) Which bit, my love? (mads_) all of it... so that we can carry on with what we are meant to be doing * MollyK nods (MollyK) I cannot do that until Elsie has the baby * mads_ nods (MollyK) You will be here tonight, that is what I need to be sure of right now * mads_ nods * MollyK takes a deep breath, then looks at him (MollyK) Do you need anything from me before we go in there? (mads_) just your forgiveness * MollyK frowns (MollyK) Whatever for? (mads_) for all this (MollyK) This was _not_ your doing. The sole reason he is in our lives is because I accepted his help with the Rose. He had no purpose to come here without me. (mads_) I have agreed for Lady Torrington to conduct his punishment * MollyK frowns (MollyK) Do we need to take five minutes to discuss this? (mads_) if you wish * MollyK goes into the little room near the dining room, shutting the door (MollyK) Come here please * mads_ goes to her * MollyK wraps her arms around his neck (MollyK) I do not feel there is anything you have done to warrant it, but you have my absolution * mads_ nods (mads_) he will be punished appropriately (MollyK) ((Body language please, she would be paying attention)) (mads_) ((tense)) (MollyK) I'm... not sure about this (mads_) what? (MollyK) The punishment (mads_) why? (MollyK) It seemed like something you needed to do personally (mads_) This whole place has lost its faith in Lady Torrginton. She needs to put that right (MollyK) Yes, but this is important to _you_ I dont want you always feeling this isn't fully over (mads_) I'll be there to watch it. He'll die as horribly as he would have at my hands (MollyK) How? (mads_) He's going to be hung drawn and quartered * MollyK nods slowly (MollyK) I see (MollyK) And that will satisfy you? * MollyK watches his expression * mads_ shrugs slightly (mads_) it must * MollyK frowns (MollyK) Alright. (MollyK) I should go * mads_ nods (mads_) aye * MollyK nods (MollyK) I will be three or four hours, I think (mads_) alright my love * MollyK goes out of the room (MollyK) **In the dining hall, Varick, Inga,HH and Claudia are waiting. Molly goes over to Varick with a big smile** Guess what, Mauschen, we are going to be spending a few days here at Lady Torrington's house! Won't that be exciting? Maybe we can do the patrols like papa used to! ** You are now disconnected (Software caused connection abort) ------------------------------ Logging started for 192.168.1.82:#7thsea on Monday, 16 August 2021 21:36:07 British Summer Time ------------------------------ ** You have joined #7thsea ** You're now known as HH (HH) **Varick hugs her** Can we still see the children? **she nods** I have something to do in town and someone special is going to be coming back with us. You and Inga can briefly see the children whilst I collect her. (HH) **She looks at the vaguely unimpressed looks** Claudia, if you could accompany me, please. **Claudia nods. Varick comes to hug Morgan once they are out in the courtyard and getting in. The groom hands Molly in whilst HH hugs Inga** (HH) **A few minutes later, it's just HH and Morgan in the courtyard* (HH) What the fuck is going on? (Morgan) Situations change and we adapt to them * HH looks at him, not looking too impressed (HH) My wife gonna be safe here? (Morgan) I believe so * HH looks around at the empty courtyard, then Morgan (HH) Need to go destroy something? (Morgan) No... you? (HH) Not right now * Morgan nods (HH) Why are we stayin' here instead? (Morgan) Elsie, we're bringing her from the brothel to here. Molly needs to be nearby in case she goes into labour (HH) Not just taking her on the Rose or over to Morgan's Rock? (Morgan) No... Lady Torrington needs to make some reparation for not knowing what was going on in her own towns, and she feels responsible * HH nods (HH) You 'appy with it? (Morgan) Its a better solution... she'll have what she needs, meals, and staff that will wait on her if she needs them. I could not offer that on the island * HH nods (HH) Makes sense I spose. 'Ow did they rest go? (HH) The* (Morgan) Its a good job I came. The physician clearly didn't want to distress Lady Torrington, so had toned down what had happened... so I enlightened them. Turns out even 'kurt' wasn't aware (HH) 'Ow is he connected to Dau? (Morgan) secret society spy, trying to keep a handle on him while keeping him alive until someone can be installed to rule in his place (HH) Shitty spy if he didn' get wind of summat this bad (Morgan) He was busy getting Molly away from him, and trying to clear people off the Rose before it was blown up (HH) Alright, give 'im some leeway then. No' surprised the physician didn' wanna tell 'er Grace. She's young and noble and a woman. I wouldn't even tell Inga about them things. * Morgan nods (Morgan) she was asking me what had you so upset * HH nods (HH) Been a rough few days. I don' want her to know something that disgustin' (Morgan) No... I figured. She needed reassurance though, so I assured her your being upset was entirely reasonable * HH nods (HH) She accept it? * Morgan nods (Morgan) completely but there was quite a bit of honesty there... * HH frowns slightly (HH) What did she tell y'? (Morgan) Nothing like you told me... I was referring to what I told her (HH) Which was? (Morgan) my reaction to it (HH) Ahh. I wasn't gonna be tellin' her that myself, figured you'd want it just 'tween us (Morgan) she needed reassurance, and it was the only thing I could tell her that would show her quite how bad it was without telling her how bad it actually was (HH) You gots a small amount of them smarts * Morgan shrugs (Morgan) Funny how far out of my comfort I'll go to make sure you and your wife are alright... (HH) Sweet o' ya. 'Ow did she respond? (Morgan) she told me I was confusing... I told her that openly but get cagey when she mentioned about knowing seeing her with Mary is difficult... (HH) Got a point there * Morgan nods (Morgan) Things around them are harder... (HH) Dietlinde and Jana? * Morgan nods (HH) Be weird if they weren't. Took a long time b'fore seeing boys with their Da's stopped being tough for me. E'en you with yours, e'en though I was happy you had him (Morgan) I still find it difficult to be open about them (HH) Noones gonna push ya. I'll remind Inga to be more careful (Morgan) No, its fine... but I'd like her to understand its not that I don't trust her with it... (HH) She wouldn' think tha' (Morgan) sure? * HH nods (HH) Yep (Morgan) I like her very much * HH grins (HH) Me too. * Morgan smiles slightly (Morgan) I'd hope so (HH) She's easy t' like. Very e'en tempered 'cept for about three days a month * Morgan nods (HH) Loves you all though. Like th' family she never 'ad * Morgan nods (HH) 'S good. Babies me a bit when I need it. Suits me (Morgan) she's very good for you * HH nods (HH) Knows what I need when I need it. Knows I'm funny on th' outside, soft on th' inside (Morgan) we all know that * HH laughs (HH) She sees it though. Can be vulnerable as 'ell with my lil darlin an' she likes tha' * Morgan nods (HH) If y'd told me about tha' part o' marriage I might have done it sooner (Morgan) like you listen to me * HH snorts (HH) Aye. This crap with that swine is about th' only secret I keep fr'm her * Morgan nods (Morgan) speaking of which... Inga said it might not be wise to tell Molly of my reaction but wouldn't say why... any idea? * HH ponders on it (HH) Maybe * Morgan watches him (Morgan) go on (HH) I know why _Inga_ might say that at least * Morgan nods (HH) Inga has said before that Molly has told her that she didn't think Eisen men cried til she saw yer Father cry, cos you didn't cry any o' the times she nearly died, an the only time she'd seen you close was talkin' about Dietlinde and Jana *he checks to see Morgan is at least trying to follow* (Morgan) right... (HH) Inga only knows Elsie got hurt, she doesn't know how Molly is connected. So knowing Inga, she'll be thinkin' you crying over Elsie would hurt Molly's feelings (Morgan) that makes a lot of sense (HH) I think Inga is wrong, but 'er logic makes sense, knowing only what she knows * Morgan nods (Morgan) absolutely it does (Morgan) I'd like to her to know that isn't the case but I appreciate thats not possible * HH nods (HH) I'll try an' think of a way that helps her understand without saying too much (Morgan) Only as long as she doesn't find out too much. I would not have her burdened with it (HH) O' course. She doesn't need it, an' frankly I don't wanna be explainin' exactly what any of it means to her * Morgan nods (Morgan) even if its just assuring her that she's got the wrong end of the stick... * HH nods (HH) Aye. Can't imagine you're too happy Molly knowin' any of this? (Morgan) No... I'm not (Morgan) wait... any of what exactly * HH 's expression becomes disgust (HH) What he did to Elsie physically (Morgan) No, I'm not (HH) Even in the navy, I don' 'member hearing anything as bad as tha' (Morgan) No... I'm told its out of character for him, like it matters (HH) It's like Herod's a good guy, gives cake to the children each year, 'e only ordered the slaughter of the first borns _once_ * Morgan nods (HH) He deserves e'ery ounce of pain y' give him. * Morgan frowns (HH) What? (Morgan) what would you do to save the stability of a region? * HH shrugs (HH) A lot, prob'ly (Morgan) the people here feel abandoned... that Lady Torrington cares more for her high status parties than for her people, and that what happens to them is irrelevant to her... * HH looks at him (HH) You're giving up your vengeance for politics? (Morgan) sort of (HH) $but there might be a happy accident of the way, like an attempted escape, or accidentally going overboard?$ * Morgan shakes his head (HH) Pity. Nothing like a good keel haul for destroying a ship. (Morgan) as long as he survives to e punished here (HH) Can't guarantee it... could put him into bed wi' the Captain's Daughter though * Morgan nods (Morgan) there is an upside (HH) Go on (Morgan) Lets be honest... as much as I'd want to prolong it, I'd end up cutting him open and letting him just bleed out... (HH) Why? (Morgan) because I'm just not... cruel enough. It'd hurt, certainly, but it wouldn't be prolonged. He'd suffer horribly... once. (HH) Y' calmed down a bit then? Yesterday I thought y' might **he waves his fingers in a way that implies magic** 'is innards (Morgan) I was afraid I would (HH) What calmed y' down? (Morgan) that I can do it scares me... that I wanted to scared me more (HH) Understandable, that's _your wife_. * Morgan nods (HH) Think yer resolve will hold out once y' see him ? (Morgan) I don't know. It needs to. We need to get him to sign a new will handing over his lands... given his arrogance, I think the punishment here will be worse for him (HH) Y' ever seen someone get the Shoes Of Salt? Pretty rare, saw it on the Nautilus (HH) ((Prob not)) * Morgan shakes his head (HH) Stormy day when y'have a lot of sea water on deck, really fine whip on the soles of the feet, make 'em mop it up barefoot. * Morgan grimaces (Morgan) brutal (HH) Seen men beg for the Captain's Daughter insteas * Morgan nods (HH) Claudia prob'ly knows loads more * Morgan nods (Morgan) more than likely * HH nods (HH) Best go an 'elp get things ready for our girls when they get back. Inga won't be 'appy if there's no bed * Morgan nods (Morgan) aye, best had * HH head towards the house (HH) Want a free 'pinion? Won't e'en cost y' a mark... * Morgan nods (HH) Don' listen to Inga. Tell Molly. If she knows what y' _didn't_ cry o'er, it prob'ly matters (Morgan) I'm inclined to agree * HH nods (HH) **They head back to find Catherine for instructions ** You are now disconnected