------------------------------ Logging started for 192.168.1.82:#7thsea on Sunday, 29 August 2021 12:00:09 British Summer Time ------------------------------ ** You have joined #7thsea (Catherine) **He finds Catherine in the dining room, and she gives the signal for lunch to be served once he is sat** (Catherine) How are you and your friends finding your stay? (Morgan) Comfortable... though it is... unusual feeling to be back in certain habits * Catherine nods (Catherine) It is nice to have you back again (Morgan) I'm not sure how long for. If Colonel Dau has wandered off, I'm going to go and find him * Catherine nods (Catherine) It is important he is brought swiftly to justice * Morgan nods (Catherine) **lunch is served** (Morgan) That is certainly a priority (Catherine) Your little group seems very much like an extended family * Morgan nods (Morgan) HeinzHarold is my oldest friend... we've known eachother since we were children, Claudia since the war (Catherine) It must be nice to have them with you on your travels * Morgan nods (Catherine) How is Elsie faring? She has everything she needs? (Morgan) We've arranged things so that she is no longer in pain, which is a mercy. She's clearly not used to having anyone around who doesn't want something from her (Catherine) I am pleased she is not in pain. Where are her family? (Morgan) They cast her aside when she became pregnant when she was younger (Catherine) Where is that child? (Morgan) died during birth * Catherine nods, drinking some wine (Catherine) And that Father? (Morgan) did a disappearing act... she followed him as far as here, but then lost him. Promises had been made as to their future, but when she fell pregnant, he ran off * Catherine nods (Catherine) All too common * Morgan nods (Morgan) indeed (Morgan) once here the only place she could find to take her in was the brothel * Catherine nods (Catherine) How shall we handle the meeting? (Morgan) what are you wanting to say? (Catherine) I am not sure. I want my people to know I care (Morgan) Care enough to what? Shed a tear? Pity them? Make changes? * Catherine pokes at the food on her plate (Catherine) Enough to keep my guests more under control. Enough to execute Colonel Dau for his crimes (Morgan) enough to help them more? To know their needs? (Catherine) What could I do for them? * Morgan shrugs (Morgan) reduce their tithes while their crop yields are low, arrange for food for those in need... there's all sorts of things (Catherine) These all sound complicated (Morgan) I'm afraid a life in power isn't going to be all parties and light... I think some changes need to be made and need to be carried into the future * Morgan watches her over the rim of his cup * Catherine nods a little, drinking more wine (Catherine) It isnt easy, doing all this myself (Morgan) believe me I am aware... I'm going to tell you something that most of noble birth would say is nonsense... * Catherine looks intrigued (Catherine) What? (Morgan) Why are you presiding over Tawstock? (Catherine) Because it is my land * Morgan smiles slightly (Morgan) No... (Catherine) Because my father and grandfather did? * Morgan shakes his head (Morgan) because... they let you (Catherine) They couldn't stop me (Morgan) really? Lets assume your entire staff would defend you if they decided to remove you... how many people are there in tawstock? (Catherine) Around two thousand, I think (Morgan) You think you and the staff could stop two thousand aggressors? (Catherine) No, obviously they couldn't * Morgan nods (Morgan) and then you think, ah, but I could ask for help... Piram would probably seize your land... if the Queen decided to step in, she still only has limited numbers. We are only here because they allow us to be. * Catherine frowns (Catherine) I hadn't thought of it like that. If they all stopped paying their rents and tithes, I couldn't afford to pay mine to the crown * Morgan nods (Morgan) In lean times, it must be lean for us all, not just those without a title... * Catherine nods (Catherine) Harvests haven't been very good here (Morgan) I know... (Morgan) That, along with your perceived permissiveness of Dau and his crews behaviour, it is believed you don't care what people are going through... you have yours, so nothing else matters... (Catherine) That isn't true. I _do_ care (Morgan) _I_ know that... they don't and, if you see it from their viewpoint, its easy to see why. On the flip side, once they know differently and see you are there to help them... not only will they continue to allow you to rule, they will actively defend you (Catherine) But _how_ do I do it? (Morgan) first step is realising thats the truth... There are no quick fixes here, but there are changes you need to make and you need them to _know_ you're making them, so you're going to tell them. ** You are now disconnected (Software caused connection abort) ------------------------------ Logging started for 192.168.1.82:#7thsea on Sunday, 29 August 2021 13:36:14 British Summer Time ------------------------------ ** Reconnecting to 192.168.1.82:6667… ** You have joined #7thsea * Catherine nods (Catherine) Is this how your Father runs his lands? (Morgan) he's getting there (Catherine) Is it going to be expensive? (Morgan) It won't be cheap for a while... (Catherine) I will need a good estates manager who thinks like you, wont I? * Morgan nods (Morgan) yes, you will... and you need to be closer to your staff * Catherine drinks some wine (Catherine) What would it take to persuade you to stay a few months? (Morgan) I'm not sure I would be permitted to (Catherine) By whom? (Morgan) That'd be the other duchess in my life * Catherine smiles (Catherine) Ahh your wife * Morgan nods (Morgan) indeed (Catherine) I could really use your help here, Morgan (Morgan) I'll speak to her, but my priority at the moment is apprehending Dau * Catherine nods (Catherine) He strikes me as the sort of man who is clever enough to be hard to apprehend * Morgan nods (Morgan) It is lucky my friends and I did what we did during the war (Catherine) The religious war Eisen had? * Morgan nods (Catherine) What did you do? (Morgan) HeinzHarold and I specialised in retrieval of information (Catherine) Like documents? (Morgan) documents, any conversation people who think they're in a safe place would have with others in his command... * Catherine nods (Catherine) That will be helpful * Morgan nods (Morgan) potentially, aye. (Catherine) And your friend Claudia, was she a nurse, or a camp follower? (Morgan) No, she's a one person platoon. All the things I've faced here with no fear... I would hesitate to face her (Catherine) Oh, she can fight (Morgan) _that_ is an understatement. She's going to be recruiting and training some guards * Catherine nods (Catherine) That will also be expensive? * Morgan shrugs (Morgan) Not necessarily. You have savings, you may need to dip into them for a little while (Catherine) And an Estates Manager would help me with this? * Morgan nods (Morgan) Here's what we'll do... You're going to take the time to speak to every member of the staff, learn their names and a bit of their history. I'll tell you why in a minute. We're going to install a master at arms and an estates manager. The master at arms will report to Claudia in the interim, then will handle all of your security... you're a duchess, you are more a target than you were before. ((mtf)) (Morgan) The estates manager will be responsible for rents, rates, tithes. I want you to get a good understanding of what he does, and what his views are... remember he works for you, if you think tithes need to be eased a little, you'll need to explain why, listen to his concerns and make the overall decision. Then I want you to work with him one day each week. With me so far? * Catherine nods (Catherine) I am (Morgan) Now, your staff... I want you to know them, who they are, what their dreams are, and be available to them if they have an issue. Several reasons for that. First, they will feel more appreciated and you taking an interest in them will make them less faceless staff but actual people to you... that will affect how you deal with the townsfolk, and that you are taking an interest in them will filter down through the town. ((mtf)) (Morgan) Another reason, and a very practical one... staff hear _everything_. Fostering a good relationship with them will mean the rumours, the discontent, the information will start flowing to you instead of around you. (Catherine) There are a lot of staff though * Morgan watches her (Morgan) I know (Catherine) I could keep a note of them (Morgan) It'll come to you naturally eventually (Morgan) For now, concentrate on learning their names... say thank you every time they bring you something. Thank them often, but sincerely (Catherine) How am I supposed to find the time for parties and trips to see my friends though? (Morgan) There will be less of them I'm afraid... though, aside from seeing Kurt this morning and me now, what else have you done today? (Catherine) I have been to church, and written some letters * Morgan nods (Morgan) and this afternoon? (Catherine) Going to the town meeting, though normally I would ride, read or sew * Morgan nods (Morgan) Its going to take more time in the short term... once you have things as they need to be, its not as big an impact as you'd imagine... (Catherine) I was not going back to my house in Carleon until Prophet's Mass, and aside from my cousin's birthday I had no gatherings planned, although some friends may visit for a week or two here and there * Morgan nods (Morgan) I'm not suggesting they don't visit or you become a hermit... It takes a little time each day... it'll take a bit more to start with with the estates manager. The other thing is, when you're not here, they will still be working, gathering information, making sure you're not taken by surprise by anything on your return (Catherine) Will you help me find a good estates manager? * Morgan nods (Catherine) Thank you. It seems like this has been fortunate in one small way at least (Morgan) You'll be better for it in the long run... but I know changing is neither easy nor particularly enthusing. (Catherine) It does seem less enjoyable than socialising (Morgan) As you get older you start to realise most socialising is just people trying to improve their position (Catherine) I would like to just be a normal young noble woman, rather than having all of this responsibility already (Morgan) This responsibility is part of being a young noble woman, but yes... these are things your father would still have been dealing with * Catherine nods (Catherine) But now I have to do it myself (Morgan) Once everything is in place, its just overseeing it... * Catherine nods (Catherine) And I should start after the meeting by getting to know the staff? (Morgan) I'd suggest doing that this afternoon... the meeting... I don't think you're going to like my thoughts on how to handle that * Catherine glances at the clock (Catherine) We do not have long before we need to leave * Morgan nods slightly (Morgan) alright... I think... you need to apologise. (Catherine) Apologise... * Catherine frowns * Morgan nods (Catherine) What will other nobles think?! * Morgan shrugs (Morgan) That you've gone soft... but you need to win your people over, and admitting that things have only gone the way they have because of your guests and you not knowing what to do is the fastest way to achieve it... plus, you're a young woman, nobles will put it down to you being young and emotional... They'll underestimate you simply because you're a woman. * Catherine nods (Catherine) Will they laugh at me, the people in town? (Morgan) Some might, but on the whole, no. Remember, you're trying to make things right, to make them better for them. * Catherine nods (Catherine) Will you stay for the whole meeting with me? (Morgan) I'll be there. There'll probably be some difficult questions * Catherine nods (Catherine) People will behave if they see you (Morgan) You need to get them to behave for you... Its a difficult line to walk, you need them to accept your apology and your sincerity for change in the future, but they also need to remember you are their duchess. * Catherine nods (Catherine) How do I manage both? (Morgan) That comes with experience I suspect. As long as your apology and plans for the future are evidently sincere, that's going to be the bigger part to achieve (Catherine) I should tell them I am going to have a new estates manager to help me work out how to run the area better? (Morgan) Tell them you are going to have a new estates manager to implement your plans to improve the area... Make them see that it is you who will be fixing things, not your manager. * Catherine nods (Catherine) What about the execution? (Morgan) You realise there must be a change to how your guests behave, so Dau is going to face punishment suitable for the severity of the treatment he subjected one of your townspeople to. You will not tolerate guests affecting your people in such a negative way any longer, and will need your people to come to you if it happens so that reparation can be made (Morgan) I'd suggest telling them that you can't do it without their help to know about it * Catherine nods (Catherine) I can do that * Morgan nods (Catherine) Do you need to see anyone before we leave? (Morgan) [We're getting ready to leave for the meeting blossom. Could you send Claudia to me please] (Morgan) No... just need to wait for Claudia (Catherine) [Of course, my love] (Catherine) She is coming with us? * Morgan nods (Morgan) Its a good place to scout for new guards * Catherine nods. She calls for the butler to prepare her coach and two horses, making a point to thank him (Catherine) **to Morgan** I will meet you in the coachyard * Morgan nods (Morgan) of course * Morgan goes to wait for Claudia ** You're now known as Claudia * Claudia turns up a few minutes later. Morgan still has a letter for her. * Morgan holds it out to her * Claudia takes it, opening it. She reads it to herself before sticking it in the pocket of her leather waistcoat (Claudia) Thanks. Heinzharold is going to keep watch on Molly and Varick whilst they go on a ride, Inga will stay with Elsie * Morgan nods (Morgan) from Sorgi? * Claudia nods (Claudia) It is * Morgan smiles slightly (Morgan) looking like we might need to go and find Dau * Claudia nods (Claudia) Fine by me (Morgan) Are you going to reply to Sorgi? * Claudia nods (Morgan) Would you mind relaying a message for me? (Claudia) Got some paper? (Morgan) Doesn't need to be right now (Claudia) Ketch will be there when we get there. If I get it to Rousseau Sorgi will have it tonight * Morgan nods, taking her to fetch some paper * Claudia finds somewhere to perch, taking out a stubby pencil from her coat (Claudia) Go on then (Morgan) If we have to pursue Dau, I want Rossou and the ketch crew left behind, along with James Schulz. Tell him to bring the Rose to port so we won't have to wait to get going * Claudia scribbles it down (Claudia) Which port? (Morgan) bring her to tawstock. If we need to leave quickly, I don't want to be trekking to Kingston * Claudia nods (Claudia) They allowed in the brothels? (Morgan) Not sure... depends how well this evening goes I think * Claudia nods. Her micro-expression shows relief (Claudia) Good idea. If I get this to Rousseau, the Rose can be here in the morning * Morgan watches her (Morgan) why are you relieved by that? * Claudia frowns (Claudia) I don't know * Morgan nods (Morgan) alright * Claudia nods (Claudia) I'll finish the rest down there * Morgan nods, heading to the coachyard * Claudia goes with him. Catherine takes her carriage and they take horses. The ride through the village and past Sunnymeade shows that people are not out and about in their streets or fields. Instead he finds them in the town square. It's mostly men there, talking in little groups. (Claudia) **the steps of the town hall seem to be the best place for Lady Torrington to address the people from. In the crowd he spots several people he vaguely knows, plus his brother-in-law Peter, and Sir Dagget. Some of the staff from the estate are mixed in too * Claudia gives the horse to a man at the nearby stables (Claudia) I'll be back shortly, get this sent * Morgan nods (Morgan) keep an eye out for trouble on your way back * Claudia looks at him (Claudia) I would never have thought of that (!) (Morgan) I know, but saying it makes me feel like I'm not taking it for granted * Claudia nods, heading off towards the docks. Lady Torrington gets out of the carriage. People are watching her and talking quietly ** You're now known as Catherine * Morgan escorts her up the steps * Catherine thanks him. She looks out over the hundreds of people waiting to see and hear her, and she looks very young. * Morgan stands a few steps away, close enough to be called on * Catherine speaks loudly for the crowd (Catherine) Thank you all for coming, especially at short notice. Recent events have brought to light that you, the people of Tawstock and the surrounding area, have been unhappy with the behaviour of guests who have visited me, and for that I am sorry (Catherine) ***people look surprised and bewildered* * Morgan watches them carefully (Catherine) This ends now. I will not allow you to be mistreated, not by anyone. I will make this plain to anyone, of any station or nationality, that my people are under my protection (Catherine) **They look intrigued, some look a little disbelieving** * Catherine looks to Morgan for approval * Morgan nods slightly * Morgan points at someone (Morgan) YOU! You don't believe that? (Catherine) **Everyone around this man moves away from him a little. He looks terrified at being singled out** * Morgan walks down a few steps (Morgan) Let me make this clear... this doesn't work unless you're willing to raise your concerns... If you don't believe her, tell her why. Now. (Catherine) **He looks scared enough that he might wet himself** * Morgan looks around (Morgan) any of you... you don't believe it'll change, she needs to know why so she can address it (Catherine) **Noone looks like they'd like to volunteer, or even risk making eye contact** * Morgan moves back up the steps, to Catherine (Morgan) You need to convince them. (Catherine) How?! (Morgan) Its down to you to take responsibility for what happened to Elsie. Tell them that. Tell them what you're doing for her but that it doesn't make up for it. That you need their help to make sure it never goes without you dealing with it again * Catherine nods, talking to the crowd (Catherine) What happened to the girl that got hurt by one of my guests is my responsibility. She is being looked after on my estate. It was unforgivable. The perpetrator will be brought to justice here, and you will all see the depth of my commitment to the promise that things will be different from now on. * Morgan surrepticiously watches the crowd (Catherine) **There are murmurs amongst the crowd, hard to pinpoint, but he hears the words brothel, whore, and ungodly mixed in * Morgan mutters (Catherine) **Claudia appears in Morgan's peripheral vision** * Morgan glances at Catherine (Morgan) keep going (Catherine) Neither the care she receives nor the trial he will have makes up for the harm she was done. Only things being better here will do that. But I need to know what is happening here so I can do that. I only discovered about the girl a few days ago, and that is why nothing has been done yet. But I want to work with you to protect you and deal with any problems (Catherine) **People look to be taking this on board now** (Catherine) A new estate manager will be appointed to put in to effect my plans. I have not been as involved as I should, and that will change. You dont have to believe me right now, but I will show you, if you will just work with me. * Morgan looks the crowd over (Catherine) **There's nodding now** * Catherine looks to Morgan "now what?" (Morgan) Ask them for questions * Catherine does so. Noone asks any (Morgan) Mind if I say something? (Catherine) Please do * Morgan nods, looking the crowd over (Morgan) This only works if you all play your part... Her Grace is young and has carried a burden without the guidance of her father and has stumbled. She is realising that life in charge is a life of responsibility and has already started enacting changes. To continue that trend, she needs all of you to treat eachother with respect and compassion, whatever your station. If your neighbour struggles, don't sit there feeling pleased it isn't you, put out your hand and o (Morgan) ffer to help, or bring them to her Grace. (Morgan) She is going to support you where needed, and, if you work together, this community will get stronger, closer and happier for it. But you must work together. I will not accept the badmouthing of others, the mistreatment of others... I don't care about your station, be it duchess or whore, if you wrong someone, you will make amends. That goes so far as to include visitors from other nations. (Morgan) I understand your disgust at Eisen men right now... those responsible are being either banished or punished as needs be, but that action falls to her grace. Not to you. Hospitality, respect and compassion goes to all until they prove it is not warranted, at which point her grace will deal with it. Am I clear on this? (Catherine) **There's a lot of Yes, Sir or Yes, Master Hockridge * Morgan nods slightly (Morgan) Alright, those of you with experience of running your own farms and have the ability to step away from it, I want your details to be considered for estates manager by Wednesday. Any of you wishing to be seek employment as her grace's guards, come and see me now. Are there any further questions? (Catherine) **Noone has any. They start talking amongst themselves** * Morgan moves to Catherine (Morgan) you did well. I'm proud of you * Catherine smiles (Catherine) Thank you (Morgan) If you hang around, someone will eventually come and talk to you... it is up to you if you are up to that right now * Catherine nods (Catherine) I can do it * Morgan nods, escorting her down the steps before collaring the man he initially singled out and two other men (Morgan) gentlemen... this is Her Grace Lady Torrington... You three are now responsible for her safety while you introduce her to some of her people. Anything happens to her, you answer to me. You're going to be very diligent now aren't you? (Catherine) **The poor men nod vigorously** * Morgan looks at Catherine (Morgan) I'll be here if you need me, just shout * Catherine nods and goes with the very nervous men ** You're now known as Claudia * Morgan goes back on the steps to wait for people to approach him about guarding * Claudia comes to his side, speaking Eisen quietly (Claudia) She'd have been annexed by now at home * Morgan nods (Morgan) I'm trying to avoid it here... I was always surprised Piram didn't try (Claudia) Or he hasn't yet (Morgan) More dangerous now... he no longer outranks her, and she holds favour with the queen (Claudia) Wouldn't necessarily stop them at home (Morgan) Thats because our natural state of being is war * Claudia nods (Claudia) Their natural state of being is stood in fields watching sheep (Morgan) Not a million miles from correct * Claudia looks around. A few young men come to talk to Morgan about getting work as guards. Behind them, older men seem to be sending more young men in their direction. (Morgan) Claudia... find out what these men have skill wise while I go and talk to those men would you? * Claudia looks at him (Claudia) I dont think I can (Morgan) Go grab those men and bring them to me then * Morgan looks to the prospective guards (Morgan) gentlemen, tell me what skills you have, and why you want to be one of her grace's guards * Claudia does (Claudia) 1: Not really any skills, but my family could use the money. **the other four agree with him. They all look to be late teens or early twenties** (Morgan) Your fathers sent you? (Claudia) 2: Yes, Master Hockridge * Morgan nods, taking paper from his pocket (Morgan) alright... names? (Claudia) **they all give them. Nothing stands out** (Morgan) Alright, coach yard at Lady Torrington house tomorrow morning, ten o'clock. * Claudia brings over another five, and then four more. It becomes apparent that there is quite a demand for stable, paying work (Claudia) **Meanwhile, Catherine is being taken around amongst her people still. She looks polite but obviously it's quite new to her * Morgan takes all their names and gives them the same instruction * Morgan heads over to Catherine, moving to her side (Claudia) **A smartly dressed man comes over to Morgan, intercepting him (Claudia) One of my tenants has informed me you might want to speak to me about my tenant Lady DeBurgh? ** You're now known as landlord * Morgan nods (Morgan) You care for your town mr... (landlord) Thompson * Morgan nods (Morgan) you care for your community mr thompson? (landlord) I do, Master Hockridge (Morgan) The man Lady deBurgh is engaged to... he brutalised that poor girl, and let his crew run amok in the town... * landlord nods (landlord) And you want access? (Morgan) I do (landlord) The house is on Fairfax Avenue, near the green. It is number 14. (Morgan) Are they up to date on their rents? (landlord) She missed her payment on quarter-day ((sept 25th, things were often paid quarterly. Now october 5th)). (Morgan) Any word on her returning? (landlord) No, and her servants haven't been paid (Morgan) They will be at the property? (landlord) Doubt it. There was only a maid and a man of all work, likely they found other positions (Morgan) Good, I'm glad they've managed to find other employment (landlord) He's not the tenant, that Eisen colonel. It was originally rented from me last autumn by Lord Jaeger for he and his bride, it was to be a surprise. However, he moved Lady DeBurgh in instead, and then she took on the tenancy when he died. * Morgan nods (Morgan) I'd suspect her tenancy is over Mr Thompson (landlord) She wont be returning? (Morgan) Noones been paid and she's not here... in your place I'd be finding someone else to rent it * landlord nods, handing him a key (landlord) I'll see to it * Morgan takes it (Morgan) thank you... (landlord) If you could leave the key under the bush by the door, I'd appreciate it * Morgan nods (Morgan) of course * landlord bows a little (landlord) Take as long as you need, sir (Morgan) I appreciate that... before I leave you... what did you make of her Grace? * landlord smiles (landlord) She's young, but she's impassioned. I think she'll do fine. She could do with a mentor or a father figure, or a husband (Morgan) You're not the first to say so * landlord nods (landlord) Good evening then, Master Hockridge * Morgan nods (Morgan) Mr Thompson * Morgan continues to Catherine ** You're now known as Catherine * Catherine is listening to Sur Dagget talking about the hardships from the year's harvest * Morgan moves beside her * Catherine gives Morgan a quick smile (Catherine) Sir Dagget mentioned he may be interested in the position of Estates Manager (Morgan) Did he... I look forward to receiving his credentials (Catherine) **he nods** I will see that you have them as soon as I can * Morgan nods * Catherine excuses them from Sir Dagget (Catherine) How do you think it went? (Morgan) Could've been worse... They certainly weren't expecting it, thats for certain * Catherine nods (Catherine) Will they work with me? (Morgan) I think so... certainly most of them, and they'll bring most of the rest around * Catherine nods (Catherine) Are we ready to go back to the estate? (Morgan) I'm going to send you back with Claudia, I've got something I need to do * Catherine nods, going over to Claudia and passing this on. Claudia gestures $any messages?$ * Morgan comes over (Morgan) tell them I won't be too long behind you, an hour or so... Lady Torrington, once you get back I have a job for you... (Catherine) To speak to the servants? * Morgan nods (Morgan) at least two of them... I want you to learn their names and two things about each of them... how many siblings they have, older or younger etc... and what they want out of life. * Catherine nods (Catherine) I can do that (Morgan) Good, I'll be asking you about them later * Catherine nods (Catherine) Alright * Morgan looks at Claudia, nodding slightly (Morgan) we'll talk later (Catherine) **Claudia escorts Catherine to the carriage before mounting up** * Morgan heads off to find Rebeccas house (Catherine) **It takes him a little while as it's fairly secluded, but it's a nice little house. It's certainly one Molly would like, which is probably why Jaeger had picked it to surprise her with * Morgan lets himself in (Catherine) **it's nice inside too, very clean and tidy. There's a kitchen, formal parlour, dining room and study downstairs * Morgan starts searching for anything that could be useful (Catherine) **on the desk he finds a stack of letters. They are all addressed to Rebecca here at the house, and they are all unpaid bills from local tradesmen * Morgan tucks them in a pocket, continuing his search (Catherine) **in a drawer, he finds more letters, similar bills, but also letters from staff for four other properties, with four different surnames after her first name. (Morgan) oh now... that could be handy (Catherine) **After a search of upstairs too, he only finds Jaegers pipe that he was fond of lighting from magical fire, and beneath the bed a cufflink with the three squat towers of Prachtig engraved on it* * Morgan takes it all with him (Catherine) **he has spent about an hour here** * Morgan locks up and heads back to find his horse (Catherine) **the crowd has disappeared, people going back to their normal activities* * Morgan mounts up, heading back to the estate (Catherine) **Unsurprisingly, it starts to rain. It continues in this fashion until he gets there. It's dark by the time he gets back, and past Varick's bedtime* * Morgan heads into the main house, going via the kitchen for coffee before going to find Catherine * Catherine is in the library beside the fire, doing some embroidery * Morgan goes to stand in front of the fire (Catherine) You're drenched (Morgan) Its a day in the week... its raining. (Catherine) You have come to ask me about the servants? * Morgan nods (Morgan) and to see how you're feeling now (Catherine) I am relieved it is done, but quite happy with how it went * Morgan nods (Catherine) As to the servants, Sam the head groom is the middle of five children, his hope in life is to buy his own house for his family. Mary, who is one of the longest serving maids, is the youngest of three, and she wants to save up a good dowry for when she leaves to get married * Morgan nods (Morgan) How long did it take you? (Catherine) Only ten minutes * Morgan nods (Catherine) They were surprised (Morgan) in doing so they'll now feel you're taking an interest, particularly if you greet them by name next time you see them. It'll make a massive difference to them. In a few days we're going to address them together * Catherine nods (Catherine) Thank you, Morgan. You have been vital today (Morgan) You did the work, not me (Catherine) I wouldn't have known what to do without your guidance (Morgan) Just needed a nudge in the right direction, thats all * Catherine nods (Catherine) I'll let you get back to your family (Morgan) I'll see you in the morning... * Catherine nods (Catherine) Goodnight, Morgan (Morgan) Goodnight your grace * Morgan heads out and off to find Molly (Catherine) **The big cottage has its curtains pulled, but it looks welcoming with light behind them. He can hear laughter before he opens the door* ** You're now known as Molly (Molly) **They're all in the parlour. Molly is sewing cream fabric whilst Inga and Elsie are knitting. On the floor by the fire Kurt, Heinzharold and Claudia are playing cards. The laughter continues, with Molly translating the funny bits for Elsie. It feels very homely. * Morgan finds somewhere to sit * Molly smiles at him (Molly) Do you want a towel and dry clothing, my love? (Morgan) please blossom (Molly) **everyone else looks up from their pastime to greet him. Molly sets down her sewing before going upstairs* (Molly) **K & HH express dismay at C beating them. K looks at HH* Have you ever played the drinking game Never Have I Ever? **Morgan remembers James Schulz telling him Kit had played it in Dietmund, drinking at 'Never have I ever had sex in my father's bed'. Morgan didn't know then that Kit's Father is the priest they met in Anhalt* (Morgan) No, but I'm aware that you have... (Molly) **HH grins** Been drunk from tha' a few times! **HH looks at Morgan, grinning** You played that with him b'fore? Did you drink at all? (Molly) **Claudia and Inga laugh. Elsie smiles but obviously doesnt understand** (Morgan) HeinzHarold... shut up (Molly) K: I don't think we did play that before? (Morgan) No... I've never played it (Molly) K: Have I asked you to play it before? * Morgan shakes his head * Molly comes back down the stairs with fresh clothes and a towel (Molly) K: It is normally a game not played with ladies (Morgan) because you end up giving away things about acts committed in your fathers bed... for example? * Molly looks at Morgan with an enquiring smile as she hands him the clothes (Molly) **Kurt goes bright red, which has HH and Claudia laughing** (Molly) **Inga looks confused, looking at Morgan** You did something in your Father's bed? (Morgan) did I mention I've met your father? He asked me to send his love (Morgan) No Inga... looks like someone has though (Molly) **Kurt covers his face with his hands and groans. HH: $Eisenfurst's bed wouldn't be that surprising now though!$ (Molly) **Claudia starts laughing** * Molly gives a quick translation to Elsie, who also laughs * Molly looks to Kurt (Molly) Both your parents are very sweet and kind (Molly) K: In my defense, I was only fourteen * Molly looks to Morgan (Molly) Are you getting changed in the kitchen? * Morgan nods, getting up (Morgan) aye, best had (Molly) HH: He might 'ave wanted to stay and delight the ladies * Molly shakes her head (Molly) He wouldn't (Molly) **HH starts laughing, the other joining in** * Morgan heads into the kitchen to change (Molly) **he can still hear Molly explaining that she meant he wouldn't be undressing for them, not that it wouldn't delight them. This goes into HH saying that after him, Inga could never be delighted by a naked man except for god himself, and everyone is laughing once more* * Morgan comes back in once he's redressed * Molly looks him over, smiling (Molly) I'll get you some food and a hot drink, shall I? (Molly) **The others have gone back to their activities** (Morgan) please blossom * Molly goes into the kitchen, but leaves the door open, waiting to see what he does * Morgan follows her * Molly smiles, putting the kettle in the stove (Molly) How was the meeting? (Morgan) Not bad... she did quite well (Molly) I'm glad (Morgan) how've you been? * Molly puts some meat in to heat (Molly) Aside from missing you, well. * Molly glances at him "we had to go through that clearing from the dream where I was John's wife... there aren't any flowers there right now" * Morgan nods (Molly) I found the herbs I needed, they are drying out now (Morgan) for Inga? * Molly nods (Molly) It is only the same as I use * Morgan nods (Molly) What I have already will be gone through much quicker now, so making up more is important * Morgan nods (Morgan) makes sense * Molly makes him a cup of tea, putting it in front of him (Molly) I'm sure the shortening of certain female indispositions will be welcomed * Morgan nods (Morgan) I would imagine so, aye * Molly smiles, sitting at the table (Molly) I certainly like that * Morgan nods, eating (Molly) How have _you_ been? (Morgan) Alright I suppose. Mostly trying to convince Lady Torrington that she needs to be more focussed on her land than her social life * Molly nods (Molly) I suppose it could be easy to be swept away by the balls, dresses and parties? * Morgan nods (Morgan) Realistically, she should still be being taught by her father * Molly nods (Molly) It is a great deal to learn about without someone to show her * Morgan nods (Morgan) she wants me to stay for a while * Molly frowns slightly (Molly) For how long? (Morgan) She asked what it'd take for us to stay a few months to guide her * Molly looks unsure (Molly) We need to be at Edward's wedding in December... And I have to go to Capperlucia in January. * Morgan nods (Morgan) I know * Molly chews her lower lip (Molly) I... I could go alone. (Morgan) Absolutely not (Molly) I cannot really postpone it without His Grace being displeased (Morgan) No, I know (Molly) But he is not expecting you to go. You and Varick could remain to help Lady Torrington * Molly watches him * Morgan shakes his head (Molly) You do not trust that I would be safe? (Morgan) I would not want to be without you for that long * Molly smiles (Molly) That is rather nice to hear (Morgan) I'm glad you liked it (Molly) Would you want to stay, and put off visiting Catterick until after Capperlucia? (Morgan) Something to think about. * Molly nods (Molly) You need not decide tonight, my love * Morgan nods * Molly comes behind him, kissing his crown (Molly) I wouldn't want to be without you for so long either (Morgan) I'm glad to hear that (Molly) Even a night is more than I would choose * Morgan nods (Morgan) likewise (Molly) You are here tonight, that is what is important * Morgan nods (Molly) And it's rather a full house this evening! * Morgan nods (Morgan) Lady Torrington thinks they are like an extended family * Molly smiles (Molly) I can see that (Molly) I had best check they're all behaving and not talking about anything too shocking! * Morgan nods * Molly strokes a hand over his shoulder (Molly) I'll be back * Morgan nods, eating * Molly goes into the other room ** You are now disconnected ------------------------------ Logging started for 192.168.1.82:#7thsea on Monday, 30 August 2021 12:27:31 British Summer Time ------------------------------ ** You have joined #7thsea * Molly is sewing again when he gets into the parlour, and he is invited to play cards. * Morgan joins in (Molly) E: What happened at the meeting? (Morgan) Lady Torrington made it clear that what happened to you was her responsibility for not controlling her guests better, and that he will be punished, and she's going to work to improve life around here (Molly) E: what did people think? (Molly) **Kurt deals for poker to Morgan, HH and Claudia** (Morgan) They seemed to accept it eventually. We're getting applicants to be estates manager by wednesday, and we have a few coming tomorrow to start training as guards (Molly) E: Wouldnt have thought people cared much, given my job (Morgan) Some didn't... Some only cared because it was a foreigner harming a local... (Molly) **Elsie nods** thought so (Morgan) I may have stuck the boot in a bit (Molly) **his hand is not good* (Molly) E: Why? (Morgan) I made a point of telling them they are to treat everyone with respect and compassion, no matter their station... (Molly) Elsie nods: we're all the same with our clothes off * Molly and Kurt, the only ones who understand Avalonian, both smile at this, trying not to laugh * Morgan scratches his cheek, running with the hand ** You are now disconnected (Connection reset) ------------------------------ Logging started for 192.168.1.82:#7thsea on Monday, 30 August 2021 12:47:57 British Summer Time ------------------------------ ** Reconnecting to 192.168.1.82:6667… ** You have joined #7thsea * Morgan scratches his cheek, running with the hand (Molly) **his cards do improve, but HH wins easily. They continue to play for a little while** * Molly shows Elsie how far she has gotten on the little nightgown she's sewing. It's an Eisen style, and looks much like the ones Dietlinde sewed for Jana in the early months of 1666. * Morgan glances at HeinzHarold briefly (Molly) **HH looks back to him, saying nothing** * Morgan looks around (Morgan) have we got a map of Avalon here? (Molly) I could go to the library and get one, my love? (Morgan) No, I'll go... HeinzHarold, you coming? (Molly) **HH gets up off the floor** ** You're now known as HH * Morgan gets up and heads to the door * HH kisses Inga's cheek before getting a coat and hat * HH opens the door "What is it 'bout you and trudging around in the rain?" (Morgan) Its Avalon, there's no other way to do things (HH) Pah! You were as bad in th' War (Morgan) Dedeication to a cause, thats what it is * HH pats the hat down onto his head (HH) Masochism. * HH makes a sprint across the grass to the door where the gallery is, getting very wet regardless * Morgan follows him * HH shakes himself off when Morgan is beside him (HH) Lead th' way * Morgan heads to the library (HH) **It's empty, low lit. There's still a fire. A stack of books is on the sideboard exactly where he and Molly would have knocked them off if her dream had been real * HH looks around (HH) Very nice * Morgan nods, looking for a map (Morgan) Its not bad is it (HH) **he finds several** (HH) What's goin' on then? (Morgan) Needed a map * HH nods (HH) What for? (Morgan) Got a few addresses I want to map out * HH pulls up a chair at the table (HH) Alright. You can't use a map yerself anymore? *he grins* * Morgan looks at him (Morgan) looked like one Dietlinde made for Jana... * HH initially looks confused, then nods (HH) The dress thing * Morgan nods, opening the map out onto the table * HH looks it over (HH) Where we looking for? * Morgan puts the letters on the table (Morgan) those addresses... * HH looks. Between the two of them they soon find the four places: Ilchester, Greenwich, Thirlow, and Farnham * Morgan looks for ones east of Avebury (HH) **Farnham and Greenwich are both almost due east, but the other two are north east. It rules none out entirely * HH finds a pencil to scribble on the paper with the addresses (HH) Got an idea which it'll be? (Morgan) I was rather hoping it'd be simpler than that... DeBurgh has used all of these locations, Dau was last seen heading east out of Avebury, so... it gives a few options * HH nods (HH) Thinkin' we'd have to hit them all? (Morgan) Maybe (HH) By road, four days to Farnham, six to Greenwich, six to Ilchester, eight to Thirlow * Morgan nods (Morgan) See what Kurt can do as well... Molly doesn't want us leaving this week anyway (HH) Sail to Londinium, it'd be four to Greenwich, five to Farnham. Five to Thirlow if you put down in Durham. Ilchester depends on what's near it on the coast * Morgan nods (HH) Still gonna be a couple of weeks no matter how you do it * Morgan nods (Morgan) aye (Morgan) I don't like the idea, but I like the idea of him loose in the world even less * HH nods (HH) Same 'ere. You keeping this quiet? (Morgan) No... we need to work together with him (HH) Why doesn't Molly want us goin' yet? (Morgan) She surrenders her citizenship this week... I wont leave her to face that alone * HH nods (HH) Alright... don't want the trails goin' cold though (Morgan) No, we don't (HH) Road or sea? (Morgan) If we go by sea and he heads for Londinium, we'll be moving towards eachother, rather than being behind him the whole time * HH nods (HH) What day is the citizenship? (Morgan) Wednesday * HH nods (HH) Saturday to sail? * Morgan looks surprised (Morgan) Against superstition? * HH thinks (HH) Thought it was just Thursday and Friday. You do Saturday too? (Morgan) Doesn't bother me (HH) I can understand you wanting to be here for Molly, but the longer we leave it, the harder it'll be (Morgan) I know. Saturday then. * HH nods (HH) Gonna be kicking our heels til then, but gives Sorgi time to get the crew and ship ready * Morgan nods (Morgan) I've asked for them to dock in Tawstock * HH nods (HH) Want me to go an' see Sorgi tomorrow? Or is Claudia gonna want to go? (Morgan) Oh, we're all going. Molly can turn people inside out to protect herself and our loved ones if needs be. She's already said if she gets word of Dau coming here, they'll be whisked off somewhere safe (HH) I meant to tell Sorgi about going on Saturday and if Claudia would want to see him herself (Morgan) Claudia may well want to go actually... we'll see... Have I told you what needs to happen before Dau can be punished? (HH) Tell me again t' be safe (Morgan) We need him to sign a new will, and have it witnessed, saying that Prachtig goes to his sister to rule * HH nods (HH) Alright (HH) Sure Inga will be safe? * Morgan nods (Morgan) I won't demand you come if you are that worried though (HH) No, but it's my duty t' check * Morgan nods (Morgan) ask her, I'm sure she can put your mind at ease * HH looks at Morgan (HH) Literally inside out? Guts an' all? * Morgan shrugs (Morgan) I've no idea... she could stop their hearts, that much I do know * HH shudders then cracks his neck (HH) Good, but only when she's on our side! (Morgan) Can you imagine a spy with her abilities, or an assassin? * HH nods (HH) That would be amazin'. Targets just dropping dead in crowded places, noone 'aving any idea it was anything but natural causes * Morgan nods (Morgan) I need to tell you about something... * HH nods (HH) Go on (Morgan) Once we get our hands on Dau, he's... going to end up being very compliant, almost worryingly so. We won't need to coerce him to do anything at that point * HH looks intrigued (HH) What's she gonna do to him? (Morgan) She won't be there... we've got these daggers *he produces one from his coat* that carry something that makes the person on the receiving end do what they're told... * HH nods (HH) Like mind control? (Morgan) closer to hypnotism... * HH nods (HH) Alright (Morgan) It means we're going to have to stab him with it, and I didn't want you thinking I'd snapped and was trying to kill him * HH shrugs (HH) Wouldn' bother me if you did (Morgan) But it'd bother me in the long run, a plan is in place that'll mean he suffers more * HH nods (HH) I'll lay you out if you start pummelin' him then * Morgan nods (Morgan) if needs be * HH grjns (HH) My pleasure * Morgan nods, rolling up the map and tucking it into his coat * HH gets up, stretching (HH) When you telling Molly? (Morgan) In the morning maybe... maybe later. We'll see how things go * HH nods (HH) I'll wait to tell Inga then * Morgan nods * HH walks back through the house to the gallery door before putting on his hat. It's still raining, and he almost slips running across the grass, which just makes him laugh * Morgan follows along behind him, chuckling * HH sits back on the floor for cards after kissing Inga's cheek again. They're still working on the baby clothes, and Kurt and Claudia are still playing cards * Morgan hums to himself quietly for a few minutes (HH) E: If the baby is a girl, I think she should be called Catherine. * Morgan looks at her (Morgan) if thats what you want (HH) **Molly smiles** I like it (HH) **Elsie nods** She could be Kitty for short, or Kit **Kurt looks up automatically** * Morgan glances at him (HH) **HH to Morgan: $Molly would be a better spy than him!$ (HH) **Kurt goes back to dealing (Morgan) $I'm a bit surprised by that$ * Morgan stretches (HH) HH: $Silly mistake$ (Morgan) I think I know roughly where our quarry is headed... maybe. (HH) **Kurt and Claudia seem particularly interested. Molly and Inga are looking at Elsie's knitting** (HH) K: where? (Morgan) I went digging at Rebecca DeBurghs cottage... she has other addresses under other names between Avebury and Londinium (HH) K: *he looks impressed* good work (Morgan) We think we need to sail to Londinium and work inwards, so if he's heading that way we're heading towards eachother rather than following him (HH) **This gets Molly and Inga's attention, and they glance at each other** (HH) K: You can visit all the addresses? (Morgan) We could use some assistance (HH) K: *he shuffles* I'll see what I can do, but all the people I would normally ask are already on the hunt. It will take at least three days to get word to them * Morgan nods (HH) K: In the morning we can spend some time on it if you wish * Morgan nods slightly (Morgan) [what was that look about?] (HH) [Just commiserating, that's all] (Morgan) Dagget wants to be the estates manager (HH) **Molly frowns, and there's something almost protective in it** He isn't ready (Morgan) No, senior * HH watches Molly before picking up his cards (HH) **Molly nods** I am not surprised, it is a prestigious position (Morgan) I remain unconvinced (HH) **Molly nods** I agree (Morgan) [you're protective of John Dagget] (HH) [he needs time to grieve and find his bearings again, doesn't he?] (Morgan) [Yes. You were quick to jump to his defence though] (HH) [You have nothing to worry about. I would defend anyone in his position, and I think you must know why] (Morgan) Claudia... we're going to need to put someone in charge of training the guards while we are hunting our quarry (HH) C: **she thinks** Me you and Heinzharold travelling? * Morgan nods (HH) C: Sorgi and Koen on the Rose? * Morgan nods (HH) C: Rousseau and Schulz staying? * Morgan nods (Morgan) Maybe Kurt would be able to assist in that, actually... (HH) **Kurt looks to Morgan** I could do that, certainly (Morgan) We'll start them off tomorrow (HH) **Kurt nods. Elsie waits for a quiet moment before saying: I was thinking Thomas for a boy? **Molly tilts her head slightly* M: It's a nice name * Morgan smiles slightly * Morgan watches Elsie (Morgan) You realise you don't need our approval? (HH) **Elsie shrugs** Noone else in the world cares about the baby (HH) **Molly smiles** I like Thomas, I've always thought it was a lovely name for a boy (HH) **Elsie smiles** Is that what you are going to call your son? (Morgan) He's already got a name (HH) **Molly looks confused** You mean Varick? * Morgan nods slightly, smirking (HH) E: I meant your next son (HH) **Molly shrugs** It is a long time away, we haven't properly discussed it * Morgan nods (HH) I think you should call him Morganson, so e'eryone knows his Father is our almighty overlord (HH) **Molly translates it for Elsie** (HH) **Elsie looks a bit puzzled but still smiles, Claudia is laughing** * Morgan raises an eyebrow briefly (Morgan) shut up HeinzHarold (HH) [In my first dream of having lots of children, I had a son from a drunken mistake at the Torrington estate, he was called Thomas] (Morgan) [Thats... odd.] (HH) **HH nods, dealing the cards** (HH) [A coincidence...] (Morgan) [I don't really believe in them where we're concerned] (HH) [True enough] (HH) **Inga stands, smiling at the others before looking at her husband** If you'll excuse me, I'm going to retire now... **HH nods** I'll be up in a while, I'm going t' beat Morgan first. (HH) *Inga nods, looking at Molly. Molly smiles, rolling her eyes* Goodnight, Inga. (Morgan) goodnight Inga (HH) **Everyone else says goodnight to her (HH) **Claudia gestures to Morgan: $how did he miss that being an invitation?!$ (Morgan) $his dense act has become so engrained he cant stop it$ (HH) **Claudia coughs to conceal the laughter* (HH) **Kurt puts down his cards** I should be going too. Thank you for a wonderful evening, I bid you all goodnight * Morgan nods to him (HH) **Molly puts down her sewing and shows him to the door. Meanwhile HH keeps losing to Claudia** (Morgan) HeinzHarold... the cards clearly say you're not going to win... go to bed (HH) Another hand or two (Morgan) $What are you avoiding?$ (HH) $Eh? I'm not avoiding anything$ (Morgan) $Your wife made a fairly plain invitation to take her to bed$ * HH looks a bit confused $did she?$ * Morgan nods slightly (HH) C: $Disgusting that your face has given you so much advantage that you've never had to learn how to read when a woman wants to fuck you$ (HH) *he smiles briefly* $You wanna teach me?$ (HH) **Claudia rolls her eyes but she's smiling** $Go to bed, you idiot$ * HH stands up, saying goodnight in both Eisen and Avalonian before going. Molly comes in from the kitchen just after he's gone out the back door ** You're now known as Molly (Molly) Oh, has Heinzharold gone to bed? (Morgan) finally * Molly smiles (Molly) Good (Molly) **Elsie is the next to go to bed, and Molly tidies away the half finished baby clothes whilst Morgan and Claudia play cards** (Molly) C: I'll be out of your way soon, just going to give Casanova in there ten minutes * Morgan nods (Morgan) it'd almost serve him right, being that slow on the uptake (Molly) C: bloody idiot * Molly has finished everything by the time Claudia goes, and is taking off her apron after shutting the back door (Molly) Well, my love, are you going for your walk around now? (Morgan) I feel I should, but I rather think we have things to discuss first * Molly nods * Molly sits on the floor by the fire, warming her hands (Molly) What would you like to discuss? (Morgan) My leaving... * Molly nods, looking up at him (Molly) It is not unexpected... (Morgan) I know... it will be saturday * Molly bites her lip (Molly) Alright. I will see that all your clothes are ready for you to take. (Morgan) I know you don't wish me to go this week, but its our best chance of catching him * Molly nods (Molly) I will be fine (Morgan) I've no doubt * Molly nods (Molly) How long will you be away? (Morgan) Probably a few weeks, depending how fast we find him * Molly takes a deep breath (Molly) Alright, my love * Molly warms her hands again (Molly) I think we should tell Varick tomorrow so he is forewarned * Morgan nods (Morgan) I agree (Molly) It will help him to have time with you before you go * Morgan nods (Morgan) aye (Molly) Is there anything I can do or prepare for you for your journey that will help? Some letters, perhaps? (Morgan) Letters would be nice if you have the time (Molly) I will make the time. As many as you wish * Morgan nods (Morgan) thank you * Molly smiles (Molly) I will start on it tomorrow. How do you feel about the trip? (Morgan) I'm not looking forward to it * Molly nods (Molly) It has been a long time since we spent so long apart * Morgan nods (Morgan) aye it has * Molly stands up (Molly) It will be fine. He needs to be apprehended and dealt with. * Morgan nods (Molly) Was there anything else we needed to discuss? (Morgan) Not unless you have something? * Molly shakes her head (Molly) I do not think so * Morgan nods (Molly) In that case, I am going to prepare for bed, my love * Morgan nods (Morgan) I'll join you (Molly) You are not going to walk around? * Morgan sighs (Morgan) better had * Molly smiles (Molly) You do not have to, my love * Molly hangs up her apron (Morgan) But will I be able to sleep if I dont? * Molly picks up a candle holder from the kitchen table, smiling a little (Molly) A very good question... * Morgan sighs (Morgan) best do it, hadn't I (Molly) Yes, liebling. You won't be settled until you have * Morgan nods, getting his coat and hat * Molly watches him fondly (Molly) I will see you in a little while * Morgan nods (Morgan) I wont be long (Molly) **Its quite chilly and rainy, though everything is as it should be. He's almost back when her thoughts spill over [I almost drop the book when he places the first kiss on my inner thigh just above my knee. "Read it aloud to me, blossom"] * Morgan blushes, heading into the cottage * Molly is reading when he gets there, lying on her side. The sheet barely covers her breasts and the apex of her thighs. She's reading the book Elsie was reading the other day. (Molly) It is still raining then? (Morgan) its Avalon * Molly nods, reading a little more (Morgan) whats that? * Molly smirks (Molly) A book (Morgan) Odd that an Avalonian book contains the line 'read it aloud for me blossom' dont you think? * Molly blushes (Molly) Oh! I... ummm. * Molly giggles (Molly) That is not in the book (Morgan) So that came to mind by itself? How peculiar * Molly bites her lip (Molly) Well, you have said before how varied and expansive my imagination is * Morgan nods (Morgan) thats true * Molly smiles (Molly) I was just keeping myself amused whilst you were gone (Morgan) evidently... * Molly blinks a moment "I wasn't... I didn't mean like _that_!" * Molly blushes * Morgan chuckles * Molly puts in the bookmark (Molly) Elsie let me borrow it. It has been a long time since I read in Avalonian (Morgan) taking some getting used to? * Molly nods (Molly) Its a romance (Morgan) That doesn't surprise me really * Molly nods (Molly) It's about a gentleman's daughter who is attracted to a priest, and him to her, but she doesn't want to live so frugally, so she ignores her heart and marries a minor noble. (Morgan) I'm sure that goes swimmingly (Molly) Not from what Elsie says (Morgan) I figured (Molly) The noble is embarrassed by her lack of nobility so won't take her to court. He makes a noble but impoverished widow his mistress, and spends all his money on her, leaving his wife both poor and abandoned in their community. * Molly gently sets the book on the side table (Morgan) sounds like typical noble nonsense * Molly nods (Molly) Eventually she and the priest end up together * Morgan nods (Morgan) obviously... * Molly nods, yawning (Molly) It would not be much of a romance if they didn't * Morgan nods (Molly) What about your herbs and oil? (Morgan) Worked well without them so far... I'm beginning to think they made no difference * Molly nods (Molly) I think you might be right * Morgan nods, getting undressed * Molly watches him with a smile, getting under the sheets (Molly) Are you ready for me to sing to you...? * Morgan climbs into bed, moving against her * Molly moves to rest her cheek to his chest, her arm wrapped over his body (Molly) What would you like to hear? * Morgan sniggers momentarily * Molly sits up slightly, watching his face with puzzlement (Molly) I usually ask you what language you prefer...? (Morgan) No... I just had a thought, thats all * Molly smiles (Molly) One that you would share? (Morgan) Just that I'd like to hear the noise you make when I am deep in your throat * Molly whimpers and goes bright red. She bites her lip (Molly) I was not expecting that, mein sehnsucht (Morgan) I thought not * Molly kisses his lips softly a moment (Molly) Your wish is my command... * Molly smiles at him * Morgan smiles (Molly) I think I might teach Inga how to train herself to do it whilst you're all away, so she can surprise Heinzharold upon his return, what thinks you? * Morgan raises an eyebrow (Morgan) You want me to think about Inga right this moment? * Molly frowns playfully (Molly) Absolutely not (Molly) I do not wish you to ever be thinking of anyone else. I don't want you to even be able to think at all! (Morgan) Perhaps not mention others when you are about to do as you are about to do, hmmm? * Molly kisses him again, licking his lower lip teasingly before pulling away (Molly) In that case, I'll keep my mouth shut, shall I? *she giggles* (Morgan) Not shut, exactly... full, perhaps? * Molly whimpers again, going down beneath the sheets until she is between his knees * Molly runs her hands over his stomach, his hips, his thighs, everywhere but the crucial area * Morgan fidgets * Molly follows this same route, but with her mouth * Morgan shudders * Molly runs her tongue in one long slow lick from low down at his root right to his tip * Morgan frowns deeply * Morgan groans deeply (Molly) Are you ready, my love? * Morgan nods (Morgan) aye * Molly spends only a few moments making him slick below parting her lips around his head, sinking lower and lower until he meets the familiar resistance of her tonsils * Morgan breathes shallowly * Molly pushes onto him and retreats repeatedly so he is entering shallowly but repeatedly at that tight point. She moans softly when she can exhale. * Morgan grunts in time to get rhythm * Molly slides right the way down suddenly, taking him in as deep as she can. It's not quite as deep as the night on the Rose where they were laid top to toe though * Morgan inhales deeply, before holding his breath * Molly strokes her hands over his hips and thighs, finding a good pattern of very long but slow strokes that take him from just in her mouth where her tongue stimulates the underside of his hardness right through to where her nose is pressed firmly against his pubic bone, and then back out again * Morgan grunts and groans in time to her ministrations * Molly takes a brief moment to talk whilst letting her lips play across his swollen flesh (Molly) You wish me to touch myself? * Morgan nods (Morgan) yes * Molly resumes what she was doing, but he can no longer feel her right hand on his body and can feel the movement of her right arm nudging against his thigh rapidly * Morgan places a hand on her hair * Molly sinks her throat down around him, enveloping his erection with tight soft heat. At the fullest depth, she grinds to him with the sort of movement he has used when he has held her head. The little noise of pleasure she makes becomes a fluttery feeling and an almost hum against him. * Morgan groans, holding her in place * Molly extends her tongue along his underside and onto the tight crinkled skin of his balls, gently moving it side to side * Morgan grinds himself into her * Molly 's arm movements increase, and he can feel the bed move and shift as she rhythmically fidgets. She becomes less teasing, more focused, making the penetration of her throat faster and harder. Most of her moans are now felt more than heard as he is buried into her * Morgan starts moving against her while holding her head in place * Molly suddenly tenses firmly as she peaks beneath her frantic, wet fingers. This makes her throat tighten further too, and the sound she makes is loud and intense as well as being somewhat suppressed by his cock, the air not able to properly escape. It only makes her push onto him with desperate enthusiasm whilst her body floods with pleasure, demanding that he joins her and shares the intensity of her climax * Morgan swells inside her throat before losing himself in his own climax * Molly peaks again at this, staying as deep as she can. She revels in the strong pulses she can feel against her tongue as his manhood twitches within her mouth and throat * Morgan lifts her head before shoving it back down, holding her in place for a few moments before letting her go * Molly stays there a few moments longer * Molly gently licks him, removing the last traces of his release from him * Morgan lays back, breathless * Molly moves up to him, gently stroking his hair tenderly (Molly) Are you alright? * Morgan nods (Morgan) oh yes * Molly nods, smiling (Molly) Alright, that's good. * Molly settles down, head on his chest (Molly) And you heard what you wished to? * Morgan nods (Morgan) very much so * Molly nods (Molly) I am glad to please you (Molly) **she relaxes against him** I will miss it very much whilst you're away (Morgan) I'm glad we are more... normal now * Molly nods (Molly) I was concerned you would feel unable to put your hands on me that way (Morgan) I know you were (Molly) How could you tell? (Morgan) you said so my love * Molly nods against his chest (Molly) I like it when you do so (Morgan) do what? (Molly) Put your hands on my head like that, hold me to you or pull me deeper (Morgan) that surprises me a little (Molly) Why, liebling? (Morgan) I am... preventing you from breathing... (Molly) Well, yes, I suppose so, but I am never scared by it. I find it relaxing (Morgan) I find that... unusual (Molly) I find it quite unusual that you wish to, when you think of it as preventing me from breathing (Morgan) The pleasure is... hard to ignore * Molly smiles (Molly) I like that. I would tell you if I wished you to let go * Morgan nods (Molly) It's enjoyable for me to receive like that * Morgan nods (Morgan) I am glad (Molly) Your desire to hold me like that troubles you? (Morgan) some... its...not what I am used to feeling * Molly takes a deep breath (Molly) That's alright though. We are learning together * Morgan nods (Morgan) you are surprised to feel that way also? (Molly) In what regard? (Morgan) that you enjoy it... * Molly is quiet a minute, thinking it through (Molly) No... I don't think I am... * Morgan nods slightly (Morgan) alright (Molly) It's a little complicated. I have no previous experience, and much of my knowledge about physical intimacy came from the girls on the Coral. * Morgan nods (Morgan) complicated is right... (Molly) I think I am more surprised by you than by myself! I had preconceptions that got broken, and then broken again. * Morgan frowns (Morgan) that is a problem? (Molly) Not at all. I am learning, as are you. We are, I hope, learning things that make us more, rather than less, compatible? * Morgan nods (Morgan) seems that way doesn't it * Molly nods, then she's quiet a moment before saying "Liebes herz?" (Morgan) blossom? (Molly) Do you ever wish I had come to you with more of a past, or with more experience? (Morgan) No, why would I? (Molly) I did not know if it might have made things less complicated (Morgan) I dont see how * Molly shrugs (Molly) Discussing the past may have been easier if I had a past too (Morgan) I dont believe so * Molly nods (Molly) Alright, liebling (Molly) Several weeks without you is going to be most frustrating (Morgan) I know what you mean (Molly) I suppose it will just be like it was for me in the week before we wed * Morgan nods (Morgan) I found that difficult (Molly) It was very dreadfully difficult... I wanted to do so many things with you, and instead had to settle for doing things alone *she giggles* * Morgan nods (Morgan) I shall think of that while I am gone * Molly smiles (Molly) Of me doing such before our wedding? * Morgan nods (Molly) I may write a little about those first few times in my letters, if you would like that? * Morgan nods (Morgan) please * Molly yawns (Molly) Perhaps I will write you twenty eight different night time letters for you to think on whilst you are away (Morgan) I don't think you'll have time my love (Molly) You underestimate how easy it is for me to think inappropriate things about you, my love (Morgan) I was more thinking how long they'd take to write (Molly) They might not be very long. But if I kept a list of what I had written about, you would know what I was thinking of alone in our bed each night * Morgan nods (Molly) That would please you? (Morgan) Very much (Molly) That is what I shall do then, my love, and we will hope you do not need to read all twenty eight * Molly giggles * Morgan nods (Morgan) indeed (Molly) You would be in a most sorry state after twenty eight nights without me... * Morgan nods (Morgan) yes... yes I would (Molly) Maybe you sh-... no, I can't complete such a discussion without becoming ridiculously aroused by it! (Morgan) oh I rather think you should tell me * Molly giggles then moves, giving him a chaste kiss on the lips, and says teasingly "I rather think I should say good night, my love" (Morgan) If you need to blossom * Molly bites her lip, fidgeting and blushing (Molly) I was... ummm... going to suggest that perhaps you should... umm... take matters in hand yourself *her brows come together with arousal, and he can feel her thighs press together beneath the sheets * Morgan nods (Morgan) I'd say there's a better than good chance of that * Molly whimpers, biting her lip again (Molly) Mmmhmm... I like that (Morgan) oh really? * Molly nods, sounding a little breathless (Molly) Oh yes, very much indeed * Morgan nods (Molly) I think about that day beneath the tree often... * Morgan nods (Molly) Now, we really should sleep before I think on it too much and become unable to do so * Molly breathes slowly and deeply * Morgan nods (Morgan) indeed (Molly) Goodnight, my love (Morgan) goodnight blossom (Molly) **she starts to sing, still a little fidgety to start with**