(Claudia) HH raises a pint of weak Avalonian ale to his lips: Well, tha's a bugger. * Morgan nods * Claudia shrugs "We'll press on. If she's heading back for this party next month it makes sense she'll go west" (Morgan) She'd been staying at Farnham until she went to Balig... does that mean she's already shut up shop, or is using that as her main place... (Claudia) HH shrugs: Won't know til we get there. **he gets out the planned route** * Claudia slides over to look at it (Claudia) Going to be very impractical to come back to it later on. His plan makes more sense * Morgan nods (Morgan) we're committed to that route really (Morgan) They left a fortnight ago (Claudia) HH nods: Wish we'd 'ad the jump on them from the start, but who was t' know? Overnight in the middle, be there Friday. * Morgan sits back, scowling * Claudia eats some food, watching Morgan (Claudia) You couldn't have known, so don't be starting that. (Morgan) What? (Claudia) Brooding * Morgan takes a mouthful of his ale (Morgan) I'm not... I'm pissed off (Claudia) HH: *he marks out the tiny ports nearest the places her other houses are. Then he taps at Thirlow** We can land here at Whistable, but it'll only add an hour by sea an' two by road from Durham... (Morgan) Is it worth it? (Claudia) HH: *he moves his finger up through Coleraine (the place Richard Robert's, Catherine's new estates manager is from) to Catterick, only 15 miles away from the dock.* Depends 'ow desperate you are to see your uncle. While we're off to Thirlow, someone could be sent to Foxcroft to escort him to the port (Claudia) **This would also allow him to retrieve the package of communication mirrors Walder was sending there** * Morgan tilts his head (Morgan) There's a package there I want... (Claudia) HH grins: Tha's what she said * Morgan glances at him (Claudia) **HH just reaches over to filch a potato from Morgan** (Morgan) how long to get a messenger from here to Catterick? (Claudia) HH: By land or sea? (Morgan) either (Claudia) HH: Seven days there by land. Mebbie do it in four by sea, depending on speed of ship, 'ow soon it leaves. (Morgan) May as well just wait until we get there then, send someone from the dock * Claudia looks at map "Agreed. You could send the Rose, but we'd either be waiting four days in Londinium or travelling by horse to Ilchester, which won't be any faster overall (Morgan) No, I don't want to add that much time (Claudia) HH: *he shakes his head* Yer wrong. Wouldn't have to do Merton an' Londinium if we were ridin' and meeting the Rose at Denholme. It's six days to Ilchester either way. (Claudia) That after Farnham? *HH nods* (Morgan) what if they're in merton? * Claudia both look to Morgan (Claudia) And HH* (Claudia) HH: No reason for them to be, 's just where we'd need to stop on th' way back to the ship. Only Farnham, Ilchester and Thirlow for houses. * Morgan nods (Morgan) alright (Claudia) HH: Your call, Morgan. The Rose is more practical f' food an' comfort. * Claudia shrugs "I don't care either way" (Morgan) its all about time... does either option save us any? (Claudia) HH: *he shakes his head* No, but you get yer package sooner with the option of skipping the return to Londinium, or y' get to see yer uncle if we stick to th' original plan, assuming we don' find him in Farnham or Ilchester (Claudia) Only by three days for the package * Morgan nods slowly, mulling it over (Claudia) HH: 's long as you have a decision by dawn, makes no odds. Can't send a rider t' Sorgi at this time of night anyhow (Claudia) Either way, we have two days to Farnham first * Morgan nods (Claudia) HH looks at Morgan's last potato: You eatin' that? * Morgan glances at it before shaking his head (Claudia) *He stabs it with his fork* * Claudia stands up "I'm getting whiskey, you want some?" * Morgan nods (Morgan) please (Claudia) HH nods: Definitely. My room's as frigid as a newly signed-nun. * Claudia shakes her head disapprovingly before going to the bar (Claudia) HH grins: Gon' be a long night in a bed tha' cold ** You're now known as HH (Morgan) I expect so (HH) 'S alright for you, I bet you can do all sortsa jiggery-pokery t' stay warm (Morgan) cant say I've thought about it (Morgan) I almost forget about that stuff * HH laughs (HH) What they like about it 'ere in Av'lon? (Morgan) generally speaking, they don't care... it was quite usual for me to be dodging balls of flame (HH) You can make 'em? (Morgan) never tried * HH nods (HH) Put it in a warming pan, heat yer bed * Morgan nods (Morgan) keep an eye for people with green eyes... * HH looks confused (HH) Thought tha' was just a myth (Morgan) not in my experience... not everyone with green eyes has some sort of magic but, aside from yours truly and my wife, everyone with magic has green eyes (HH) Yours are pretty green in th' middle * Morgan shrugs (Morgan) Molly\s aren't * HH grins "Y' have nice eyes, if you were a lassie" (Morgan) I have nice eyes anyway, shut your mouth (HH) **Claudia sits down, looking at Morgan, smirking** Is he bothering you, sweetheart? * HH laughs loudly enough that people start looking (Morgan) the pair of you like drinking warm whiskey? (HH) **She had brought a whole bottle of whiskey back with her, putting a large measure in each of three glasses** Spiced warm whiskey is good (HH) C* * Morgan looks at the bottle (Morgan) A couple of shots is considered a normal amount... not a whole bottle (HH) C: Gonna be on the road for a few days, best to be prepared * HH drinks some "Not bad" * Morgan sips it (HH) C: *she breaks out a deck of cards and a large handful of tiny wooden tokens* Poker? Whoever loses pays for the whiskey * Morgan nods (Morgan) fine * HH gets comfortable "Go on" (HH) **Heinzharold loses but pays up with good grace. All of them a bit weary from the travel and the anti-climax, they don't play cards for long before calling it a night. Morgan's room is small, only a single bed, and freezing cold. He's provided with a solitary candle * Morgan does his nighttime prep before climbing into bed (HH) **For a moment he cant find either the book or the negligee in his bag** * Morgan swears, turning the bag out on the floor (HH) **he finally finds them** * Morgan sighs with relief, putting the stuff back in his bag before opening the book (HH) "Wednesday October 14th, evening. It became a very frequent event those following days for me to think of you that way at bedtime. Each day was filled with anticipation of finally being able to lay with you, and we were unable to risk even kissing, aside from one night a few days before the wedding where we slipped into an empty guest room and I kissed you against the door. (HH) I wanted you so badly that night, feeling your passion through your kisses and having your hands on me was very arousing. I had to break it off and go to bed, because my desire to please you was so high that I was not sure my self-control would hold. (HH) So I went to bed with you in my mind. I fantasised about you doing the same, about how you would have been hard from our stolen kisses and touching me. I imagined the frustration being too much for you and you aching for me as I was aching for you. (HH) I caressed myself intimately, imagining you in your own bed, the covers pushed back and you reclined and so appealing. You were very, very hard, and your hand upon you was slow, savouring the sensation. With my fingers I could tell how strongly you had aroused my body, how ready I was to be pleasured and taken. (HH) It felt like relief just to have some pressure there were I needed it, and I relaxed into the familiar method of circling my fingers where I am most sensitive as I thought of your firm stroking and your own pursuit if relief from the arousal our brief tryst had inspired. (HH) I wanted you so badly. As I write this, I want you so badly too! I peaked with the thought of you doing likewise, of you swelling in your grip and the pleasure running through you before you released onto your skin, your manhood twitching as it had in my hand. (HH) That is what I shall be imagining tonight, the intensity of our desire that night to cast aside the rules and act on our feelings, and the thought of you being so aroused that you need release from your hand whilst thinking of me. I hope wherever you are tonight the thought of being with me is soothing to you xx * Morgan closes the book, sighing (HH) **there's not even the cat to talk to, just a spider in one corner of the ceiling** * Morgan rolls onto his side, trying to sleep (HH) **Despite the hundreds of miles between them, he slips into Molly's dream again. In the yellow tones, she is stood in the kitchen of their first cottage, drinking coffee and watching from the window, the rain pouring down. He has coffee too. (HH) "I think Lady Catherine was correct to cancel her party back in April after whatever the business in the… place in Tawstock with Kai was, liebes herz" ** You're now known as Molly (Morgan) probably (Molly) *she sips the coffee. No party in April would mean Captain Tsaylur had never Eisened him into marriage, nor had Molly met the girls on the Coral, but a glance around the kitchen shows they have settled into this as their home, the dresser he had planned to build for her made and filled with plates edged in a forget-me-not pattern. (Molly) **The kitchen is pleasantly warm and smells of freshly baking bread. A calendar shows it is early june, and there's a note beside a ringed date that says in his writing "Heinzharold and Claudia" (Molly) Do you think your friends will face hostility for being Eisen, or do you think Kai and his men's banishments will have helped that? * Morgan shrugs (Morgan) knowing how things go, they'll have trouble for it (Molly) Are you nervous about seeing them, or did you see them in December? ((Def didnt see Claudia, no clear cannon for seeing HH, happy with either)) (Morgan) No, I didn't see them... I've no doubt they'll give me grief * Molly frowns (Molly) Because we are living here like this? (Morgan) No... (Molly) Because you left? ** You are now disconnected (Software caused connection abort) ------------------------------ Logging started for 192.168.1.82:#7thsea on Thursday, 14 October 2021 14:13:29 British Summer Time ------------------------------ ** You have joined #7thsea (Morgan) Do you think your friends will face hostility for being Eisen, or do you think Kai and his men's banishments will have helped that? (Morgan) * Morgan shrugs (Morgan) knowing how things go, they'll have trouble for it (Morgan) Are you nervous about seeing them, or did you see them in December? ((Def didnt see Claudia, no clear cannon for seeing HH, happy with either)) (Morgan) No, I didn't see them... I've no doubt they'll give me grief (Morgan) * Molly frowns (Morgan) Because we are living here like this? (Morgan) No... (Morgan) Because you left? (Morgan) partly (Molly) I am sure they will understand, liebes herz (Morgan) No... they won't * Molly looks concerned (Molly) Even if you explain that you needed to go? (Morgan) even if... * Molly looks compassionate (Molly) That will upset you? (Morgan) of course (Molly) I am sorry, m-... Morgan. I can appreciate the pain of having a best friend think badly of you **she looks down at the cup, swirling the coffee** * Morgan nods (Molly) Can I do anything that will ease your nerves these next few hours? * Morgan shakes his head (Morgan) no, I don't think so (Molly) *she looks nervous herself* Do you think they will approve of me for you? (Morgan) I imagine so (Molly) Will they be alright, having to top and tail in your bed? (Morgan) If they don't like it, they can find a room in town (Molly) I suppose conditions were even more cramped and close in the War on ship? * Morgan nods (Morgan) aye, very (Molly) **he can see her bite her lip nervously** Do you have reservations about sharing _my_ bed for the first time? (Morgan) only that I do not wish you to be uncomfortable * Molly shakes her head (Molly) My only concern is for you. I will wear a night dress. You do not have to worry. If you wish, we could put some blankets rolled up between us… *she turns a little from watching over the rainy lawn to watch him over the rim of her cup* (Morgan) They do that before a betrothal in parts of Eisen... * Molly looks intrigued (Molly) Really? For how long? (Morgan) the night before the betrothal... it gives them time to talk, and if the man has acted honourably, the woman accepts the proposition * Molly blushes (Molly) And they usually act honourably? (Morgan) usually... or so the bride says * Molly looks thoughtful "That does sound very sweet. Is that done where you are from?" (Morgan) No... * Molly looks outside again "The rain has stopped. If a barrier between us tonight would be pleasing to you I will go over and get more blankets." (Morgan) I'll think about it * Molly nods, sipping her coffee slowly (Molly) Please, do not allow concerns that I will be uncomfortable to feature into your thoughts * Molly turns to watch him, her back to the window now * Morgan nods (Morgan) alright * Molly takes the bread from the oven, smiling (Molly) Come and have a smell, liebes herz (Morgan) of... * Molly giggles (Molly) I meant the bread, but if you wished to smell me you can! * Morgan smiles slightly, coming to inhale by her neck before smelling the bread * Molly murmurs "I love you" without thinking (Morgan) hmm? * Molly blushes "I... uhh..." * Molly watches him nervously * Morgan waits (Molly) **There's a knock at the door. She looks relieved** The door! * Molly makes no move to answer it, still watching him intently (Morgan) so it is * Molly just nods, eyes on his ** You are now disconnected (Software caused connection abort) ------------------------------ Logging started for 192.168.1.82:#7thsea on Thursday, 14 October 2021 15:41:38 British Summer Time ------------------------------ ** Reconnecting to 192.168.1.82:6667… ** You are now disconnected (Network connection lost) ** Reconnecting to 192.168.1.82:6667… ** You are now disconnected ** Reconnecting to 192.168.1.82:6667… ** You are now disconnected ** Reconnecting to 192.168.1.82:6667… ** You have joined #7thsea (Molly) [15:13] * Molly just nods, eyes on his (Morgan) best open it then love * Molly blushes (Molly) Did you just call me...? * Morgan looks at her, feigning innocence * Molly shakes her head slightly "Sorry, I thought... it doesn't matter" (Morgan) what? (Molly) I thought you called me "love". I misheard. * Morgan nods (Morgan) I see * Molly blushes again, looking guilty. He hears Claudia say quietly "Morgan?" * Morgan calls out (Morgan) just coming * Morgan looks at Molly * Molly tilts her head "Why is she whispering?" * Morgan shrugs (Morgan) perhaps, my love, you should open the door and find out? (Molly) **She looks love struck a moment then frowns** "She's not at my door… *she looks around as if something is dawning on her* This… this isn't… it's not real. (Morgan) You're dreaming... and so am I * Molly looks at him, smiling warmly (Molly) You're really here?! * Morgan nods (Morgan) I was last night but couldn't get you to see it * Molly puts her hands on his cheeks tenderly kissing his mouth fast and repeatedly "Oh liebes herz! There's so much I want to say!" (Morgan) It does mean that Claudia is trying whispering in my ear though, doesn't it... (Molly) Probably. Don't go, not yet. Just a minute... *she stays close to his mouth* (Morgan) How quickly could you teach me to do the mirror thing? (Molly) I don't do anything, Jacques does it all. I just put on water at the right time. Why? *she steals another quick kiss* (Morgan) I was hoping we could do that... I'm going to get the mirror halves from Catterick while I'm up that way (Molly) **There's a louder knock** (Molly) Oh! No, they're permanently linked, no water is needed. They never stop showing the other mirror (Morgan) I was hoping we could find a way to do it until we got hold of those mirrors but... I suppose not * Molly shakes her head. *kiss* Porteish *kiss* water from *kiss* well from Sudlache. (Morgan) pity. I'll have one half of a mirror sent to you but there's a good chance I'll be back before it is (Molly) Yes, my love. *she strokes his face, talking fast* God, liebes herz, I miss you! I love you endlessly. We're all well, happy enough. No baby signs, Elsie well, smitten as is James. Inga misses Heinzharold. Varick misses you. Don't worry we're okay. Last night, yes, blissful! (Morgan) We miss you... we haven't found him at Greenwich so we're going to have to carry on looking. (Molly) It's okay, we're okay, just do what you need. **Claudia says his name a little louder** (Morgan) I've got to go my love * Molly kisses him firmly again "I know, I know. I'll keep us safe, please keep yourself safe. Try to smile when you can. Dont go forgetting me, hmm?" *she smiles* (Morgan) Never my love. I love you, with everything I am * Molly 's eyes fill with tears but she's grinning "Go, my dearest, most beloved sehnsucht. I'll find you here again if I can" * Morgan nods, looking at her a moment before trying to wake up (Molly) **The pitch black room is a far cry from the little daytime cottage of her dreams. The next call of his name sounds more concerned** Morgan? ** You're now known as Claudia (Morgan) yes? (Claudia) **Its around five, two and a half hours before dawn, nearly two before first light** (Claudia) You decent? (Morgan) hang on * Morgan rolls out, pulling his trousers on (Morgan) come in (Claudia) **It is bitterly cold. Claudia has a bed blanket over her shoulders and a single candle in a holder when she opens the door** * Claudia smirks a little, but it seems a little forced "That's more nipple than Heinzharold will see on this trip" * Morgan looks at her (Morgan) whats wrong? (Claudia) Nightmare. Just could use some company. * Morgan sits at one end of his bed, nodding to the other end * Claudia sets the candle down and sits (Claudia) Fucking cold in here too * Morgan nods (Morgan) that it is * Morgan pulls a shirt on * Claudia kicks off her boots, sitting cross legged with the blanket all around her. The world is completely quiet around them (Claudia) I figured given how supportive you've been and how you want me to model opening up, you'd want me to come to you. * Morgan nods (Morgan) I know its difficult though * Claudia nods (Claudia) Don't want you thinking I'm weak. I _could_ get through it alone, but I'm trying to accept that I dont _have to_ (Morgan) my friend, I've never thought of you as weak, in any sense, and I never would. * Claudia nods (Claudia) I'm alright * Morgan nods (Morgan) do you need anything from me? Just company, a hug... for a change I cant rustle up coffee (Claudia) Company. Not hugs, sorry. (Morgan) don't be... I'm not particularly used to people coming to me, used to them being too scared of me (Claudia) No, I have _never_ experienced that in my whole life (!) (Morgan) That surprises me, you've always seemed such a soft, fluffy type * Claudia snorts * Morgan leans down, fetching his flask of scotch, sipping some before offering it to her (Claudia) Thought you and Heinzharold were the "little rabbits" * Claudia drinks some before handing it back * Morgan smirks (Morgan) not today * Claudia laughs (Claudia) It helps you when you talk about your nightmares? (Morgan) with one exception, usually * Claudia nods (Claudia) If I tell you, you gonna get all guilty that you weren't there? (Morgan) I'll try not to... thats about the best I can do (Claudia) **She watches him seriously* Sure you wanna know? Sure you can _handle_ knowing, with all the Elsie stuff? * Morgan nods * Claudia takes a deep breath, psyching herself up "Only person I ever told was Sorgi" * Morgan nods (Claudia) Nightmare about the first man who raped me. It wasn't very clear to me at the time that's what it was. We were friends, first friend I made in basic training. Never treated me like I was a girl, stood up for me against the others who thought I shouldn't be there. Managed to persuade me that everyone had to lose their virginity to a man at some time, why not a best friend? * Claudia keeps an eye on his reaction * Morgan frowns, nodding (Claudia) I wasn't sure. I said no a couple of times, I think. I didn't want to, but he'd been good to me, helped me find my feet there, kept me out of trouble. I thought maybe that was the price of it, you know? A trade. (Morgan) I can see how that'd make sense (Claudia) It wasn't that bad, physically. He wasn't rough. It was over in no time, really. I thought maybe I'd made a big deal of nothing. Maybe that's what friends did for each other when one was male one was female. (Claudia) But as time went on I realised he started putting in less effort to being my friend, and expecting sex constantly. I definitely said no most times then. But again, I felt badly about it, like maybe I was just being frigid like the other trainees had been saying. My resistance should have been stronger, he said. If I hadn't wanted it, I'd have punched him, he said. * Claudia shrugs, again checking his expression * Morgan scowls, waiting (Claudia) That final time I did punch him. Gave him a black eye. The next day I heard the others teasing him, and him tell them how he'd "fucked that dumb bitch every night" and boasting how easy it had been to trick me into thinking he gave a shit about anything but screwing me. (Claudia) I realised then it had been against my better judgment and that I'd been coerced and forced because I didn't want to lose my only friend. That feeling of shame comes back now and then, even years after I killed him. That's what I had a nightmare about, standing outside the hut hearing him mock me and the others laugh, that wave of shame. * Claudia sighs, taking back the scotch * Morgan nods slowly (Claudia) He _had_ to die. There would have been another girl, and another, you know? * Morgan nods (Morgan) I do (Claudia) It wasn't my fault, I know that. You can't stop someone determined to ruin you when you trust them. Took me years to figure that out. * Morgan nods (Morgan) I'm glad you see that though * Claudia nods (Claudia) I do (Claudia) Doesnt mean I'm willing to trust people easily now though (Morgan) understandable (Claudia) Give them enough time, they'll show you who they really are (Morgan) so I'm learning * Claudia takes a mouthful of scotch then hands the flask back * Morgan nods, taking a mouthful (Claudia) You mean me? (Morgan) No... I've always known who you are, just not why... its never been... necessary. (Claudia) Just assumed I was a hardass bitch with more Eisen than one physical form can hold? *She grins* (Morgan) Something like that (Claudia) We're all what life makes us (Morgan) Mostly I agree with that (Claudia) Only mostly? (Morgan) I don't think life makes you as cruel as that... * Claudia shrugs (Claudia) I think it's easy to become cruel if you receive cruelty (Morgan) you think he did? Or Dau? (Claudia) He didn't. Dont know anything about Dau's background. Doesn't excuse it though * Morgan nods (Morgan) suffering cruelty may well make it easier to become cruel, but its built in with some people... hence why mostly I agree you are what life makes you * Claudia nods (Claudia) I can agree with that * Claudia looks at him (Claudia) Guess it makes sense a bit now, why I don't want a relationship or obligations to Sorgi? * Morgan nods (Morgan) because you're friends, and it'd feel too close to what happened (Claudia) I can't feel like I owe it to him, like it isn't my choice * Morgan nods (Claudia) He gets it. If I went back to the Rose and said I was done and it was never happening again, it would never happen again and he wouldn't give me any trouble over it at all (Morgan) I've a great deal of respect for him... * Claudia nods (Claudia) Without a doubt one of the finest men I have ever met. (Morgan) Cant say I thought the same when I first met him (Claudia) He was in a bad state by his account * Morgan nods (Morgan) if the beating hadn't killed him, the alcohol was going to * Claudia nods (Claudia) She fixed him, didn't she? * Morgan nods (Morgan) healed his wounds and the damage done physically, yes (Claudia) Don't know if she meant to heal his addiction, but he says it's like it just stopped. He regained consciousness and that desire and need to drink was just gone completely. * Morgan nods, taking another mouthful (Claudia) Shouldn't be possible, should it? (Morgan) why not? Magic's been in this world for... millenia * Claudia shrugs (Claudia) Suppose so. Anyway, that's my first horror story. How was your night? (Morgan) I feel a little guilty telling you... (Claudia) Why? (Morgan) I'm... rather thrilled... have I told you before we can sometimes enter each others dreams? * Claudia thinks (Claudia) No... future predicting dreams, communicate to one mile, sense her direction for five * Morgan nods (Morgan) I've been able to enter her dreams for a time... turns out we can do it from this distance, but she doesn't realise its a dream... * Claudia nods (Claudia) You saw her tonight? * Morgan nods (Morgan) last night too... but tonight she realised she was dreaming * Claudia smiles "I'm glad for you. Think you're soppy as hell, but I'm still glad for you" (Claudia) How are things there? (Morgan) fine. They miss us, send their love... (Morgan) no signs of the baby yet (Claudia) That's good news * Claudia holds out her hand for the flask ** You are now disconnected ------------------------------ Logging started for 192.168.1.82:#7thsea on Thursday, 14 October 2021 17:53:32 British Summer Time ------------------------------ ** You have joined #7thsea (Claudia) [17:49] * Claudia holds out her hand for the flask * Morgan hands it back (Claudia) Mind set at rest a bit now? * Morgan nods (Morgan) aye (Claudia) Good to see her? (Morgan) extremely (Morgan) I miss them * Claudia nods (Claudia) Not surprising. Hopefully it'll happen again for you (Morgan) I hope so * Claudia nods (Claudia) You decided what we're doing yet? (Morgan) I'm leaning towards heading back to the ship... if its taking the same amount of time, why wouldn't we sleep in our own beds... * Claudia nods (Claudia) Sounds good to me (Morgan) need to speak to my uncle anyway, if we get that far (Claudia) Hopefully not (Claudia) Shame you haven't got Molly to show off (Morgan) we're heading back to see him anyway (Claudia) He ever get to meet Dietlinde? ** You are now disconnected ------------------------------ Logging started for 192.168.1.82:#7thsea on Thursday, 14 October 2021 18:40:28 British Summer Time ------------------------------ ** You have joined #7thsea (Claudia) [18:37] (Claudia) He ever get to meet Dietlinde? * Morgan shakes his head * Claudia nods (Claudia) Visit him when you lived here? * Morgan shakes his head (Morgan) No... I avoided everything like that (Claudia) Be glad to see you then (Morgan) possibly, aye * Claudia sips the scotch (Claudia) How long you been dreaming hopping then? (Claudia) Dream* (Morgan) oh, a good while now (Claudia) Useful at this distance, seems pointless when you're together (Morgan) surprising if I'm honest * Claudia nods (Claudia) Gonna tell Heinzharold? (Morgan) Don't see why not (Claudia) He's going to be over the moon, isnt he? (Morgan) its not reliable enough to be able to count on it (Claudia) Just knowing that they were okay as of last night... * Morgan nods (Morgan) true (Claudia) Ugh, you pair are making me soft, imagining a romantic reunion in your dream. (Morgan) we all have to grow and change * Claudia shudders (Claudia) No thanks! (Morgan) You've grown and changed... (Claudia) Reckon? * Morgan nods (Claudia) Because I haven't punched anyone except Heinzharold in weeks? * Morgan shrugs (Morgan) Not necessarily (Claudia) What then? **she drinks more of his scotch before handing it back* (Morgan) this, for a start... * Claudia nods (Claudia) This is new * Morgan nods * Claudia starts putting in her boots (Claudia) I'm going to get Sleeping Beauty up so we can get on the road soon * Morgan nods (Morgan) alright * Claudia grasps his arm in their familiar gesture before she goes "Thanks, Morgan." (Morgan) Anytime... thank you for trusting me with it * Claudia inclines her head, taking her candle with her, and leaving him in the dark (Claudia) **He has the time to pack up his meagre belongings and get ready for a long day of travel ((anything he would specifically do?)) (Morgan) 3/me goes in search of his own candle so he can finish getting dressed (Claudia) **he finds it easily * Morgan gets it lit and finishes dressing before opening the book to todays letter (Claudia) **Thursday October 15th, morning. Good morning mein liebling, I hope you had a good night. I am hoping to help Lady Torrington and also further your ideals of greater care for the common people by influencing her a little as I spend time with her. Thursday's seem to be a good day for that, so I will likely spend time in noble pursuits today. I also intend to practice my archery. I hope your day is a good one also. How I will be missing holding you in my arms! My love, Molly xx (Morgan) good one also. How I will be missing holding you in my ar (Claudia) Arms! My love, Mollyxx * Morgan packs it into his bag, getting his things ready to move out (Claudia) **There's a touch of moonlight that makes it easier to take out their horses, and it shows how their breath steams. The saddles are as cold as ice, and Heinzharold winces as they ride away from the tavern** Think my balls froze off! (Morgan) Thats how Claudia became a girl... * Claudia snorts "Have you tried checking your wife's pockets, Heinzharold? Isn't that where your balls are now" (Claudia) HH grunts: Not makin' a comment incase it resurrects Saint Morgan of Puritytown (Morgan) brains have frozen, huh * Claudia sniggers "That's a hard nickname to live down" (Claudia) HH: Brain's fine, ass is numb (Morgan) fairly close to where you keep your brain... * Claudia and HH both laugh at this (Claudia) Tha's why all the lassies say I 'ave a big brain (Claudia) HH* (Morgan) I'll point out most people think you're simple... * Claudia scoffs "I've heard three women say you (Claudia) Have a big brain, your Ma, your wife, and Molly, who is very generous. * Morgan looks at HeinzHarold, raising an eyebrow (Claudia) HH: *he grins* what? (Morgan) given the context, I'm not sure I'm pleased about that (Claudia) HH: You wonderin' if she's seen little Heinzharold? * Claudia shakes her head "Oh no. The bubbies is back enough, we do _not_ need a nickname for your manhood" (Claudia) Bad* * Morgan frowns at him (Claudia) **HH crosses his eyes at Morgan** * Claudia watches the pair of them like a disapproving older sister * Morgan looks away (Claudia) Pack it in, Heinzharold. Morgan, he's obviously winding you up. (Morgan) Its fine, I won't tell him about my dream... (Claudia) HH: No, go on * Morgan shrugs, taking out his flask and sipping some before putting it away again (Claudia) HH: Goooooooo onnnnnn (Morgan) Have I told you that occasionally I end up in Molly's dreams? I know its a dream but she doesn't (Claudia) HH: Wha'? Like just wanderin' round like a character in a story? * Morgan nods (Morgan) Figured that'd stop being so far away... night before last I ended up in her dream, but couldn't make her aware it was a dream (Claudia) HH: Y' haven't told me about it, but that sounds like a lot o' fun * Claudia looks at Morgan "Can you imagine the havoc he would wreak?!" * Morgan nods (Morgan) everyone would be naked for a start (Claudia) HH: *he grins** Inga would be m' lil tavern wench (Morgan) aaaaanyway... (Claudia) HH: You in her dream, she didn't know it. You prob'ly did a Claudia an' got bubbies * Claudia looks at him "I'd punch you if I could reach" (Morgan) I did the first night, but she was a working girl in a tavern, so it was more or less expected... _last_ night, she realised... (Claudia) HH: She dreams o' being a workin-... hold that thought. She knew y' were in th' dream and it was a dream?! * Morgan nods (Claudia) HH: *he looks excited* Are they all a'right? Is Inga okay? (Morgan) They are absolutely fine. Missing us, but fine * Claudia smiles slightly, saying nothing (Claudia) HH: That's really good t' know. You lucky dog. * Morgan nods (Morgan) I know... no sign of the baby yet, either (Morgan) other than her massive belly, obviously (Claudia) HH: Not sure who's wider, Elsie or the Rose. (Morgan) The Rose, barely * Claudia snorts (Claudia) HH: Hoping the babe stays in til we're back (Morgan) me too. I really hope to be able to tell her we got him * Morgan glances at him (Morgan) Molly's brother is adopting the child (Claudia) HH: Pete or James? (Morgan) Peter * Claudia nods ** You're now known as HH (HH) I like 'im (Morgan) bit much like his father at his worst... (HH) Stubborn, pig-headed, thinks 'e knows it all? (Morgan) proud, too worried with his reputation... * HH nods (HH) Loves his kids and his wife, hard worker, protective of Molly (Morgan) pity he didn't stand up to his father... was touch and go she'd have a relationship with them... * HH nods (HH) Not e'eryone has the balls t' disobey a parent though (HH) C: You've got balls on the brain this morning * HH shrugs "b'cause it's so cold they're hibernatin' in my innards" * HH rolls her eyes "Did not need to know that" (HH) C* * Morgan looks at Claudia (Morgan) did you not hear him crying first thing that he couldn't find it to take a leak? * HH laughs at this (HH) **Claudia does likewise** (HH) Was gonna call y' for help, as yours is always tha' size, figured you'd know what to do * Morgan nods slowly (Morgan) call that one a draw I think * HH nods (HH) Y' ask Molly to give Inga my love? * HH snorts "You get a woman in your place, your wife is never coming back" (HH) C* * Morgan looks at HeinzHarold (Morgan) If I get a chance I will (HH) HH **he gives Morgan a feigned look of hurt, lip quivering** Claudia's really mean (HH) **Claudia just laughs** (Morgan) and if we behaved like most men, she'd be right * HH nods "Reckon you'll visit Molly again?" * Morgan shrugs (Morgan) Two nights in a row... I hope so (HH) Happen a lot normally? (Morgan) fairly often, aye (HH) She normally dream she's a working girl? *he looks amused* (Morgan) First time I think... maybe second... (HH) HH: Seems like good entertainment t' me * Morgan shrugs (HH) **Claudia shakes her head "Don't you have to be careful not to get things wrong and seem out of place, or does she just adapt? (Morgan) She just adapts I think... I can guarantee that I've not done what she would normally have dreamed (HH) Like wha'? (Morgan) well, I wouldn't imagine if her dream as a working girl had gone to plan I'd have been smart mouthed... * HH laughs (HH) Woulda been funny to see you get a slap * Morgan shrugs (Morgan) unlikely * HH nods (HH) Musta been good to see her * Morgan nods (Morgan) very * HH nods "Hope y' gave her a big cuddle" * Morgan nods (Morgan) of course (HH) **Claudia looks at HH** You are such a girl! * HH shrugs "Am not. I just know 'is wife likes it when he cuddles her" * Morgan nods (Morgan) like a good female friend would (HH) **Claudia blinks a moment** (Morgan) dont fret at it, I just refuse to refer to him as a girl friend in case he gets ideas * HH looks at him (HH) Wha' sorta ideas? (Morgan) How'd you sleep? (HH) Was bloody cold * Morgan nods (Morgan) she came and drank my whiskey (HH) Hang on, I jus' bought her a whole bottle last night! (Morgan) it was really cold * HH nods (HH) Didn' get to dream of my special girl * Morgan nods (HH) I dreamt I had wings, like a old world god, and I could fly, see? *and he continues with this nonsense until well after the sun rises** (HH) **The day is much as the day before, HH messing around, Claudia disparaging him, just churning through thirty rural miles in perpetual drizzle. Its very late when they find an inn called The Pack Horse, having ridden a little in the dark, but it is clear that Ashford is not part of normal coaching routes. The inn is tiny, its Landlord surprised at their request for three rooms** (HH) LL: Sorry, can certainly do you food, but we only have two rooms, and one's taken. Could chuck a mattress on the floor so there's a double and a single? *he eyes them specutively as if trying to work out who would be sleeping where* * HH and Claudia are stood by the fire, leaving Morgan to deal with the language issue * Morgan looks around at the taproom (Morgan) this as busy as it gets? (HH) LL: bit busier earlier in the night * Morgan nods (Morgan) sling a mattress on the floor in the room, I'll sleep down here (HH) LL: The dogs sleep in here. Do you mind dogs? * Morgan shakes his head (Morgan) no (HH) LL: I'll see to it then, and get you some food out. Sorry. We don't get many passing through * Morgan nods (Morgan) its fine... we likely to see the other guest? (HH) **He shakes his head** gone t' bed already (Morgan) man, woman... (HH) Man. Old boy, got a gammy leg (Morgan) pity, I'm after tracking someone down. No matter (HH) **LL goes** * HH stands with his back to the fire (HH) Hey, Morgan! * Morgan looks at him (HH) I can feel m' balls again! (HH) **Claudia rolls her eyes** Have we got rooms? (Morgan) sort of (Morgan) HeinzHarold, take yours and Claudia's bags up to the room please (HH) They both say in unison "We're sharing?!" (Morgan) one of you will take the bed, the other a mattress on the floor (HH) C: what about you? (Morgan) in a chair by the fire (Morgan) with a pair of dogs (HH) **Claudia shakes her head** I'll sleep down here, you two share. (Morgan) HeinzHarold... bags upstairs please * HH motions Morgan aside a moment * Morgan moves away from Claudia (HH) **There's no joking in his expression, speaking quietly** Not got time to beat around th' bush here. If you want fifteen minutes to yerself with your book, I'll keep Claudia busy down here with cards. (Morgan) No, its fine. Take the bags please, all of them. * HH shrugs, taking them all up ** You're now known as Claudia * Claudia is warming her hands (Claudia) What was that about? (Morgan) Doesn't matter... You object to sharing a room with HeinzHarold? (Claudia) I object to sharing a room full stop (Claudia) Aside from Sorgi, I haven't stayed in a proper room with anyone for years * Morgan nods (Claudia) And even that was an accident (Morgan) alright... now, something important... * Claudia nods (Claudia) Go on (Morgan) I wanted to apologise (Claudia) Why? (Morgan) a poor choice of words this morning... I saw it affected you. I'm sorry. (Claudia) Dont worry about it. You know how it goes. Weird little turns of phrase, an object, memories pop up. Doesn't matter, not your fault (Morgan) thats as maybe... but I'm sorry all the same. We ok? (Claudia) Of course we are. You dont even need to ask * Morgan nods (Morgan) alright then (Claudia) You still get it much? **He got it in Zweibrucke, with the smokey tea he'd given Dietlinde that her nose had wrinkled at, and getting a splinter in the pad of his thumb like on his old fence post which she'd removed with a needle and kissed it better* (Morgan) more often than I'd like * Claudia nods (Claudia) And you don't hate the person who accidentally caused it, right? * Morgan shakes his head (Morgan) I didn't think you would even hold it against me... but its important to me for you to know I regret it (Claudia) I know. Knew the moment it came out of your mouth. (Claudia) **A woman brings over some stew and bread, and three big dogs follow her** Here we go, lovies. I'll bring ale too. (Morgan) thank you (Claudia) **The woman goes, the dogs with her (Claudia) Guess those are my bed mates tonight * Morgan nods (Morgan) I was rather looking forward to snoozing in front of a fire with them * Claudia glances at him (Claudia) They probably smell better than Hein (Claudia) Heinzharold * (Morgan) true (Claudia) **The man in question is back about ten minutes later, just in time for the ale to arrive and the stew to not be scalding. He tucks in** sorted yourselves out? * Morgan nods (Claudia) I'm sleeping down here with three stinky dogs, not up there with two (Claudia) HH: Told y' she was mean * Morgan nods (Morgan) just as we like her (Claudia) HH: Tha's true (Claudia) And he is a big child * Morgan nods * Claudia nods "You gonna tuck him and read him a bedtime story, as he's got no bubbies?" (Morgan) he's not getting a bedtime story out of my book (Claudia) HH grins: Spoilsport (Claudia) This is the book with the titillating letters? * Morgan nods (Claudia) Too rude for _Heinzharold_?! * Morgan shrugs (Morgan) maybe... maybe not... (Claudia) HH: I'll just have to sing Morgan t' sleep... (Morgan) I'd rather you don't (Claudia) HH grins: Nine hundred and ninety five thousand, three hundred and eight bottles of beer on the wall... * Claudia laughs " Good luck, Morgan." (Morgan) thank you _so_ much (Claudia) HH: You're welcome! (Claudia) **They settle to eat, and soon it's time to say goodnight to Claudia. As they're going up the stairs, HH says** Want me to sit outside a minute so I don' see y' blushing as you read it? (Morgan) I'm sure I can manage (Claudia) **They go into the room ** You are now disconnected (Connection timed out) ------------------------------ Logging started for 192.168.1.82:#7thsea on Friday, 15 October 2021 16:57:07 British Summer Time ------------------------------ ** You have joined #7thsea (HH) **HH sits on the mattress on the floor, undoing his boots** Last time we did this was th' night before your weddin' * Morgan nods ** ipad has joined #7thsea * HH gets changed into a long nightshirt before getting into the makeshift bed with a hanky, sniffing it (HH) If you see yer wife tonight, can y' ask 'er to tell mine I still think she's th' prettiest flower in th' garden? ** ipad has quit (Quit: Colloquy for iPad - http://colloquy.mobi) * Morgan nods (Morgan) of course * HH starts chuckling * Morgan gets ready for bed, using the usual things * HH turns onto his side, giving Morgan the little privacy the room offers "A'right I'm not looking" ** Morgan2 has joined #7thsea ** Morgan2 has left #7thsea * Morgan chuckles, opening the book (HH) Thursday October 15th, evening. Rather than get tied into chronological recounting, tonight's letter is about a certain stream somewhere between Paan and Atemlos. (HH) I'd ridden off under the guise of finding somewhere for lunch, but really it was because I had fantasised myself into great frustration thinking about what we had done in the tavern the previous night, and how it would have been to have continued and made you secretly spend yourself there in that busy taproom surrounded by people. (HH) I needed some speed and a cool breeze so I could calm myself, which is why you found me paddling in the stream. I was pleased to see you when you arrived, but I had no idea what you had in mind! (HH) Even once you were sat beneath the tree and warned me that splashing would interrupt you, I did not work out your meaning, not until you mentioned my having said that I wanted to be there the first time you did so thinking of me. Then I understood why you had undone your placket! (HH) I'm not sure I can even describe the wave of arousal that ran through me at that moment. Finally I would get to see what I had imagined so many times whilst pleasuring myself. But it was more than that. It was also that confidence and self-assurance, and I was surprised by the situation. I had not thought about seducing you, worrying you would not want to if I tried. (HH) You instigated it all, and I loved that. Your desire was clear, and I only hope that mine was clear enough in response that you knew how thrilled I was. Watching you watch me head to toe as you stroked yourself was mind-blowing, just the idea that you were looking at me and I was inspiring your desire. Even just thinking of it as I write is arousing me greatly! (HH) We did not have the time for slow or leisurely, but that didn't matter. Seeing the urgency of your need and how you moved was exactly what I had desired. I have watched it again and again in my mind since then, especially upon the infrequent occasions I have pleasured myself since then. (HH) You whispered "Soon" to me as you got close, and that was my undoing. I'd put your other hand into the modified trousers and I came around your fingers inside me. Why that had such a strong effect I do not know. I do know that watching that look of concentration on your face as you silently peaked also had a strong effect, as did the way you spent yourself onto the ground. (HH) Even writing this down and remembering it is causing me to fidget here at the table in the cottage, and I have no doubt that by the time I finish writing for this evening I will be in an awfully urgent state of need! (HH) Perhaps the evening you read this, once everyone in the cottage is asleep, I will not go to my bed find my release, but return here to the kitchen table to do so, a place where at present I would most definitely benefit from being able to lift my skirts and petticoats and quietly use my pencil-dented fingers to stroke myself to orgasm, the memories of you pleasuring yourself for me by the stream too arousing to bear. Goodnight, my beloved one xx ** You are now disconnected ------------------------------ Logging started for 192.168.1.82:#7thsea on Friday, 15 October 2021 18:11:32 British Summer Time ------------------------------ ** You have joined #7thsea (HH) Thursday October 15th, evening. Rather than get tied into chronological recounting, tonight's letter is about a certain stream somewhere between Paan and Atemlos. (HH) I'd ridden off under the guise of finding somewhere for lunch, but really it was because I had fantasised myself into great frustration thinking about what we had done in the tavern the previous night, and how it would have been to have continued and made you secretly spend yourself there in that busy taproom surrounded by people. (HH) I needed some speed and a cool breeze so I could calm myself, which is why you found me paddling in the stream. I was pleased to see you when you arrived, but I had no idea what you had in mind! (HH) Even once you were sat beneath the tree and warned me that splashing would interrupt you, I did not work out your meaning, not until you mentioned my having said that I wanted to be there the first time you did so thinking of me. Then I understood why you had undone your placket! (HH) I'm not sure I can even describe the wave of arousal that ran through me at that moment. Finally I would get to see what I had imagined so many times whilst pleasuring myself. But it was more than that. It was also that confidence and self-assurance, and I was surprised by the situation. I had not thought about seducing you, worrying you would not want to if I tried. (HH) You instigated it all, and I loved that. Your desire was clear, and I only hope that mine was clear enough in response that you knew how thrilled I was. Watching you watch me head to toe as you stroked yourself was mind-blowing, just the idea that you were looking at me and I was inspiring your desire. Even just thinking of it as I write is arousing me greatly! (HH) We did not have the time for slow or leisurely, but that didn't matter. Seeing the urgency of your need and how you moved was exactly what I had desired. I have watched it again and again in my mind since then, especially upon the infrequent occasions I have pleasured myself since then. (HH) You whispered "Soon" to me as you got close, and that was my undoing. I'd put your other hand into the modified trousers and I came around your fingers inside me. Why that had such a strong effect I do not know. I do know that watching that look of concentration on your face as you silently peaked also had a strong effect, as did the way you spent yourself onto the ground. (HH) Even writing this down and remembering it is causing me to fidget here at the table in the cottage, and I have no doubt that by the time I finish writing for this evening I will be in an awfully urgent state of need! (HH) Perhaps the evening you read this, once everyone in the cottage is asleep, I will not go to my bed find my release, but return here to the kitchen table to do so, a place where at present I would most definitely benefit from being able to lift my skirts and petticoats and quietly use my pencil-dented fingers to stroke myself to orgasm, the memories of you pleasuring yourself for me by the stream too arousing to bear. Goodnight, my beloved one xx * Morgan closes the book, sighing quietly (HH) Gotta say, I'm envious as 'ell **he chuckles** (Morgan) It just brings home how much I miss her (HH) Bet tha' wasn't her intention (Morgan) No, I shouldn't think so * HH fidgets, lying on his back to look up at the watermarked ceiling (HH) Gonna be glad to get home? * Morgan nods * HH starts chuckling "Gonna be like pouring a cup of milk into a thimble" (Morgan) Thats a picture I cant unimagine * HH laughs, flinging a dirty sock up at Morgan "Here's an offering to y', Saint Morgan, we missed ya" * Morgan throws it back on the floor (HH) G'dnight Morgan (Morgan) g'night man (HH) **It's been quiet a few minutes when HH very quietly says** Night night, lil darlin, I love you. * Morgan stays quiet, trying to get to slee[ (HH) **He falls asleep much quicker with the sound of someone else breathing in the background. He has no idea this is just a dream, there's also no yellow tone. He's sat on the grass where he will one day be buried. The August sun is hot on his back. The tombstone to his left says "Dietlinde, beloved Wife of Morgan, Mother of Jana. August 28th 1646- September 21st 1667." (HH) He's reading those words again with a heavy heart, thinking of the accidental fire that had swept through their cottage, when Jana puts a little green ceramic cup forward and disrupts his vision* (HH) "Vati have coffee. Nah-na have tea. Nah-na like tea" Her sweet little nose wrinkles, the flaxen hair identical to Dietlinde's shining. She must be almost two and a half now. "Nah-na think coffee yuck!" She waits for him to take the cup. * Morgan takes it (Morgan) thank you little one (HH) *Jana gathers the pink organza layers of her princess dress and sits down. Her tiara is too big and sits wonky on her hair. It's very fancy and ridiculously expensive. He had no idea how it got in the vault, but she had pleaded and begged Adalbrecht to let her wear it, and he had caved. (HH) **He couldn't say no to anything his granddaughter wanted, not after she's lost her mother so horribly. All the animosity over Dietlinde being a commoner had gone. His family had been amazingly supportive of him and Jana during their mourning. (HH) "Good coffee, Vati?" She sips her pretend tea with her little finger stuck out, like a lady. * Morgan copies her momentarily (Morgan) fabulous ** You're now known as Jana * Jana giggles (Jana) *Jana pours nothing from a pot into another cup, setting it down on Dietlinde's grave* "Muti have tea, like Nah-na" * Morgan nods (Jana) **Jana holds an empty plate to him** " Nah-na make cake in titchen with servants!" * Morgan takes some pretend cake (Morgan) did she? (Jana) *Jana nods, and looks over his shoulder and between the memorials of Koertig ancestors, curious but not wary* Who that? * Morgan turns to look (Jana) **The young woman with long dark red hair looks confused and lost. She's wearing a pale yellow dress, and carrying a straw hat with yellow ribbons. She can't see them as easily as they can see her. He has no idea who she is, and yet somewhere in him, he feels a sense of recognition* (Morgan) I don't know... she looks lost, doesn't she? (Jana) *Jana nods at Morgan* Vati, look her hair! It glowing! * Morgan glances back at her (Jana) *Molly's hair isn't glowing, but it does shine very red in the sun. Jana looks intrigued* Vati think Nah-na give coffee, or Nah-na give tea? (Morgan) I don't know... tea maybe? (Jana) Ok Vati *she pours as before. Jana takes the cup, and goes clumsily running through the gaps, avoiding the graves as she has been told. She reaches the redhead, who smiles, immediately crouching down to the little girl* (Jana) **Morgan can just hear her from a distance* Hello, I am Nah-na. I am two years old. I live here in die dauerhalffigtite *the mangled word sounds cute* My Vati is the Veisgraf! My granpa is the Graf, he always buy me red shoes. ** You're now known as Molly * Morgan makes his way over * Molly looks at her feet, then smiles warmly (Molly) They're very fine. I am honoured to make your acquaintance, my Lady. I am Molly Forrester. I am eighteen years old. My Father and I are on a trip around Eisen to see lots of interesting places. Is the Veisgraf here? (Morgan) that, miss Forrester, would be me * Molly curtsies deeply, smiling warmly. Her eyes are a blue that fade lighter towards the middle, her rosy cheeks making her look Avalonian "My Lord, I am pleased to make your acquaintance. Please, call me Molly" (Morgan) Morgan, then... * Molly nods (Molly) Morgan... what a lovely name * Morgan shrugs slightly (Morgan) its Avalonian (Molly) **Jana gives her the cup** Tea? **Molly takes it carefully** Thank you, my Lady, I do love tea. **She sips it, doing an excellent job of participating in the play* Oh, that is so good! (Molly) **Jana looks proud of herself. Molly looks to Morgan** I was born in Avalon (Morgan) I wondered... Molly isn't exactly an Eisen name * Molly nods, smiling "Sadly not. My middle name is Isabella, which I am told is the Vodacce version of Elizabeth " (Molly) **Jana is watching the grown ups. Molly feins blowing to cool down the tea without even checking she's still being watched** * Morgan nods (Morgan) it is... what brings you to this quiet corner of Eisen? * Molly smiles "There's a house in the forest we wish to see" (Molly) **Jana looks up at Morgan with wide eyes and a mouth shaped like an O** * Morgan frowns (Morgan) no, you don't * Molly sips the "tea" before giggling (Molly) I am afraid we do (Morgan) what on Theah for? (Molly) That is rather a long story. For now, the Grafin said I may take a stroll around the estate, but to be careful near the lake. (Molly) **Jana moves to hold Morgan's hand, and nods vigorously** Lake not safe. Even Vati not swim there! * Molly smiles at her "Well, if the Veisgraf would not swim in there, I don't think it would be safe for me! I like your tiara, it's very sparkly" (Molly) *Jana nods, looking at Morgan* I a princess now! *Molly watches him* (Morgan) I'm not sure its a good idea... * Molly looks to him "I won't be swimming, we arent going to impose on your hospitality more than one night" (Morgan) I'm not concerned about that... (Molly) J: On shoulders, Vati! You my Xantha now! *she giggles* * Morgan hauls the girl up onto his shoulders (Molly) **Jana is light, but so much heavier than when Dietlinde died and she wouldn't leave his arms for a week** (Molly) "Nah-na show Miss Forr'ster the maze! Giddy up, Vati!" * Morgan nods, motioning Molly to follow before heading towards the maze * Molly smiles, shouting to him "This 'Xantha' is a horse?" (Morgan) my horse... foul tempered brute * Molly laughs, walking fast (Molly) **When they get to the little maze, Jana wants to get down. ** * Morgan drops her down * Molly watches the little girl twirl, laugh and run, her straight blonde hair blowing in the breeze and her pink skirt bouncing with each step. The sun is warm, there's barely a breeze. Molly gives him chance to speak (Morgan) why do you want to see the house? (Molly) We Avalonians have an interest in the supernatural, and my Father has heard there is some supernatural activity there (Morgan) The entire forest more like * Molly nods "Supposedly the creature known as The Schattenmann" (Morgan) thats the most prevalent, yes (Molly) My Father is asking the Graf for permission to travel south from here, our map has clearer directions progressing due south, then east south east from a particular clearing. But if we must, we will go down the Great South Road and aim to navigate due east (Morgan) I wouldn't go through any more of the forest than absolutely necessary * Molly nods, smiling (Molly) That is why we are here (Molly) **Jana is talking away to imaginary people, curtseying and making introductions between them** * Molly watches her, smiling and again sipping from the empty cup (Morgan) the supposed Schattenmann... you don't believe it exists? * Molly smiles "No, I do" (Morgan) but... (Molly) But I am intrigued about _what_ precisely it is (Morgan) horrific... * Molly looks at him (Molly) Certainly the myths and legends say such (Morgan) Its not something you want to mess with * Molly looks torn (Molly) I do not intend to "mess" (Morgan) You certainly don't want to be bargaining with it * Molly shakes her head (Molly) I want to _understand_ what it is, where it came from (Morgan) I doubt it'll tell you * Molly nods. He realises he hasnt heard Jana for a few moments * Morgan looks round (Molly) **when He looks back, Jana is gone** * Morgan swears, before calling for her (Molly) J: Come find Nah-na, Vati! *she shouts from inside the maze* (Morgan) Alright, I'm coming... don't move (Molly) **The crying starts** Vati! Nah-na scared! (Morgan) I'm coming little one * Morgan starts heading in the direction of her voice * Molly looks around, following. There seems to be smoke coming from somewhere, and the smell of burning wood. Jana's screams become more scared, more urgent "Vati! Vati!" just like the day Dietlinde died, just before she'd smashed the window with a candlestick and frantically lowered Jana tied in a bed sheet to the ground, crushing his prized pink carnations. * Morgan starts forcing his way through the bushes, directly towards her (Morgan) I'm coming, I'm coming (Molly) **There's flames in part of the maze. Not this, not again. He can't lose Jana too* * Molly follows him, assuming he must know the route well. They find her near the centre, the smoke having made her pass out, tiara fallen off on the ground beside her. * Morgan snatches her up, moving her away from the smoke (Molly) **he can't tell if she's breathing, but he suspects maybe she isn't** (Molly) **The smoke is getting worse, the fire spreading rapidly * Morgan picks up his pace, trying to get out of the maze as quickly as possible * Molly follows him right out onto the grass. She looks at the little girl a moment (Molly) *Jana is utterly floppy in his arms, just like when she is deeply asleep * Morgan puts her down, listening to her chest while muttering "please please please" (Molly) **Molly kneels down and lays a hand on Jana's forehead, eyes closed. He feels the back of his neck tingle. The silence of her chest becomes a slow, weak thud, then stronger** (Molly) She's alright, she's okay. * Morgan scoops her back up into his arms, holding her tightly as he watches Molly (Morgan) what did you do? * Molly watches him (Molly) Does it matter, if she is here with you? (Molly) **Jana rouses, coughing* Let's get her out of here before the whole thing catches alight! * Morgan gets up off the ground, carrying Jana away from the fire * Molly watches them go a moment before standing, brushing off her skirt. * Morgan holds the child tightly, turning to look at Molly (Morgan) I wouldn't show that sort of... thing to anyone around here * Molly follows, her chin tilted slightly up "I had not intention to" (Molly) **Out on the grass and far away from the maze they see the rest go up in flames. Molly watches him with concern** Are _you_ alright, my Lord? You look a little faint **he does feel a bit dizzy. Everything around him seems a little blurry** * Morgan shakes his head (Morgan) I need to get her inside, send some men out with buckets * Molly holds out her arms "here, let me take her so you dont drop her" * Morgan holds her closer (Molly) **His head is really spinning now, and his ears ring almost like a single chime* * Molly frowns a little "I won't hurt her, but you are going to if you drop her" * Morgan looks torn but eventually hands her over (Molly) **his balance starts to feel like the floor is tilting left to right, like being on the Enchiridon's deck at the beginning of Quatre Bras** * Molly holds Jana to her, cuddling her and soothing her "There, there, Hasechen ((little rabbit)), you are fine and your Papa is fine. **she looks at Morgan** Take a deep breath, hold for five, then blow out harshly, you will reset your nerves * Morgan tries to (Molly) **He wakes up suddenly, the room is warm enough but he feels chilled to the bone** ** You're now known as HH * Morgan draws a deep breath (HH) **he sits beside him on the bed, shaking his arm firmly** Morgan. Wake up. * Morgan scoots across the bed quickly to the far edge (HH) Hey, hey... calm down... (HH) ((Distress and desperation?)) (Morgan) ((fairly high but not awful)) (HH) **The tingling is definitely present but not urgent** (HH) You were callin' for them, woke me up * Morgan nods slightly (Morgan) don't touch me (HH) The fire shit? (Morgan) something like * HH sighs (HH) Ah man, you know I'm a hugger. (Morgan) Not now, please... I don't want to hurt you * HH goes stumbling around in the dark trying to find his bag. He stubs his toe (HH) Ouch! Fuck you, bedframe. (HH) **he finds a flask, chucking it in Morgan's direction gently * Morgan grabs it, taking a mouthful (HH) Wanna be alone or wanna talk? * Morgan closes his eyes, breathing slowly * HH just waits patiently, saying nothing for once (Morgan) That one was strange (HH) Y' said both Molly and Jana several times * Morgan nods (Morgan) I'd lost Dietlinde, but not Jana... we were playing by Dietlinde's grave when Molly turned up... didn't know her (HH) Yeah, tha's strange * Morgan nods (Morgan) Jana went into the maze, which caught fire... she was gone by the time I got to her but Molly... saved her I suppose, but being back then... you know how we are * HH nods (HH) Yeah. Not good (Morgan) then I got dizzy and, eventually, woke up * HH sighs (HH) Sorry man, sounds awful * Morgan nods (HH) Reck'n it means something? (Morgan) I doubt it... (HH) **the tingling is still there but a little less (HH) Probably not long til firs' light (Morgan) just shy of an hour * Morgan closes his eyes again, breathing slowly (HH) Forgot y' could time keep like tha'. Want me to go and get Claudia up? * Morgan nods (Morgan) lets get a move on * HH pulls on his trousers, gently shutting the door behind him * Morgan gets out of bed, pulling his clothes on, muttering the whole time (HH) **He finds the warm satin of her negligee in the bed after rummaging for it * Morgan holds it to his face, breathing in deeply (HH) **The tingling rapidly disappears, leaving only his feelings behind * Morgan packs it away, opening the book (HH) "Friday October 16th, morning. Good morning, liebes herz. I wonder where you are now, I cannot imagine you are still on the Rose in Londinium. I am sure that we are missing you after almost a week, but we will be holding up admirably and focusing on other things. I would imagine you are also. (HH) **It will be fabric market day in Tawstock, so I think we will go for that and make the day of it, Varick is going to need new clothes soon! He's growing so fast. I hope you have a good day and that though you miss Varick and I it is bearable. Always yours, Molly xx" * Morgan closes the book, packing it away with the last of his things (HH) **They leave quietly. The ride is much more subdued, and the miles seem to stretch on and on. He has time to think, too much time. The rain comes and goes, the pain of having seen and held his daughter again only to face the loss in the cold light of day remains. Even HH doesn't manage to bring him out of it, and the playful bickering is zoned out. (HH) **The food the landlord gave them gets eaten, horses take on water at a nearby stream as he and his friends get rid of some. The grey clouds accompany them all the way, as does Jana's face, the feel of her on his shoulders, her laugh and inquisitiveness. (HH) **It's late afternoon when Claudia gently kicks his calf** Hey! You alright? ** You're now known as Claudia * Morgan nods slightly (Morgan) struggling is all (Claudia) You were miles away. Can I help? (Morgan) I doubt it * Claudia nods (Claudia) Figured as much (Morgan) he tell you about the nightmare? * Claudia nods (Claudia) One as bad as that, needs to be done. * Morgan nods (Morgan) I can still feel the weight of Jana on my shoulders, what her laugh sounded like * Claudia looks grim (Claudia) Yeah (Morgan) its hard (Claudia) Of course it is. The loss doesn't get smaller, you just get stronger at carrying the grief. Then sometimes something comes back to you, and it's like you're back to lifting it at the start * Morgan nods (Claudia) You'll lift it again, you just need to take a breath and let the weight be there a minute (Morgan) I don't really know how to do that (Claudia) Sorgi says you have to lean into it. Stop fighting, let it wash through you * Claudia lets go of her reins, stretching out her shoulders * Morgan frowns * Claudia shrugs (Claudia) He says that's what I'm doing wrong. I deny the grief and the hard thoughts when they come, judging myself for being weak for them. I need to lean in, accept them without judgement, and let them flow past like boats on a stream (Morgan) its wise... I just don't really know how to do that (Claudia) Feel sad. Let yourself be sad without fighting it, I guess * Morgan nods slowly (Morgan) I'll try * Claudia nods (Claudia) We're here for you (Morgan) I know... thank you * Claudia nods, reverting back to quietly riding the roads at his side (Claudia) **It is early evening when they reach their destination. Farnham is a large town, and finding directions is easy. The house is set away from the road behind big iron gates. There are no lights at all despite the darkness. (Claudia) Fuck's sake. (Morgan) Maybe they ran out of candles (Claudia) **HH looks up at the building** we'd need to get through th' gate first * Morgan takes his axe off the saddle before dropping to the ground * Claudia exchange what can only be described as an Eisen grin, also dismounting (Claudia) And HH* * Morgan leans against the gates at the lock, checking for movement (Claudia) **there's no play in the lock, it would need picking. Its solid enough to scale (Morgan) HeinzHarold, in my bag there's a leather pouch... (Claudia) **He sniggers** Is there now? **he starts rooting for it anyway** * Claudia shakes her head "Not an image anyone needs" * Morgan hangs the axe on the gate (Claudia) HH grins: Certainly feel summat silky! (Morgan) Leave that be, its Molly's (Claudia) *HH chucks him the pouch** Imagine th' slap I'd get f' having my hands on yer wife's underthingemeyjigs * Morgan catches (Morgan) it'd be repeated by Inga, too * Claudia snorts, laughing (Claudia) HH: Bet Claudia has some like tha' hidden away! * Morgan takes the kit out, picking at the lock * Claudia punches him in the arm "I bet Heinzharold has his own!" (Claudia) HH: Hey, that's my good arm! **The lock comes undone quite easily** * Morgan puts the kit back in the pouch, picking up the axe and shoving the gates open * Claudia scoffs "All these years and you're still not ambidextrous!" (Claudia) HH: *he leads the horses in* Only with a sword *he grins* (Claudia) **There's only a short path. The heavy oak doors are also locked, it looks more complicated and fiddly** * Morgan looks at it for a couple of minutes appraisingly before hitting it hard with the flat of the axe (Claudia) **it creaks but doesnt quite go through * Morgan takes a couple of steps back before throwing his own weight at it (Claudia) **This time it goes through. There are no shouts of alarm at all* * Morgan wanders inside, looking for candles (Claudia) **there don't seem to be any. HH follows him in (Claudia) **It's completely dark. HH calls "Yoohoo, anyone 'ome?" It echoes in that was only a furniture- and fabric-less house does. (Morgan) Safe to say they're not here I think (Claudia) HH: Reck'n so. **he draws in a deep breath, then wanders off in the dark** * Morgan does the same, looking for any letters (Claudia) HH: Don' suppose you could try tha' ball shit now? (Claudia) **There's not even furniture for letters to be on. (Morgan) bugger off to the door, just in case (Claudia) **HH does so** * Morgan holds out a hand, trying to work out a way to create a ball of flame (Claudia) **It's significantly easier than he expects** * Morgan turns so HeinzHarold can see it (Morgan) well... shit... (Claudia) **The ball is surprisingly beautiful** (Claudia) HH: whoa! ** You're now known as HH (HH) HH: Tha's pretty * Morgan nods (Morgan) tis rather (HH) HH: I wanna go upstairs (Morgan) why? (HH) Y' can't smell cologne? * Morgan inhales (HH) **he can, just, and it smells like Kai's** * Morgan nods, heading for the stairs (Morgan) thats Dau's (HH) HH: smells like piss. (Morgan) definitely Dau * HH follows him. In the main bedroom they find a very strong smell of it and big stain on the floor of it (HH) Keep yer ball away * HH sticks his fingers on it, feeling the stickiness. " 'Ssuming it was him dropped it, he was here about a week ago or less. (Morgan) They left greenwich two weeks ago... (HH) Look around, this place has been picked t' the carcass. That's gotta take time * Morgan nods (HH) Three 'ouses so far they've stripped. Someone's in dire straits. * Morgan nods (Morgan) so it would appear (HH) Question is, what fer? What's th' end game? (Morgan) She owes the winter prince big, I know that much... and she's been spending far above her means for a long while (HH) Gettin' th' hell outta Avalon? And he can't go back t'Eisen with arrest warrants coming out of his ass... (Morgan) We didn't tell him about those... (HH) Is he an idiot? (Morgan) No, far from it (HH) Then he's prob'ly got ears out * Morgan nods (Morgan) I suppose so * HH looks around (HH) I'm done * Morgan nods (Morgan) alright, lets get out of here (HH) **They do so, finding Claudia with the horses (HH) C: Let's find somewhere to stay, somewhere that's not a brothel. * Morgan nods (HH) **The inn they find is basic, and three small rooms are found, though the sheets are thin and the blankets moth eaten. The food is very good though, a proper roast dinner. This perks up Heinzharold greatly, and he's his jovial self by the time the blackberry crumble comes. (HH) **It is very similar to the one Molly burnt the day he first proposed because she was sat in his lap and they were kissing, which distracted her. It's also like the one she made him in Fischler when the strain of unravelling Alarice's mess left her feeling separated from him, culminating in fucking her passionately in the Eisenfurst's stables** (HH) Inga makes a good crumble. * Morgan nods (Morgan) Molly does too... * HH grins "They got them womanly arts, see?" (HH) C: *she scoffs* Rather know how to separate an enemy from his own head. (HH) Inga makes good souffles too **Morgan knows this is one of the things on Molly's Cant-Do list, along with sheering sheep, driving carts, and playing violin* (Morgan) I've never understood Souffle's (HH) They're this Montaigne pudding thing. Y' eat it. (Morgan) yes I know that... I just don't see the point of them (HH) **They both laugh** (HH) C: Merton, Londinium, and then head for Ilchester then? * HH pulls the map out between mouthfuls (HH) Aye, should be there in four days time. * Morgan nods (HH) Still on track for three weeks total, but we're nearly a week in * Morgan nods (Morgan) Its only partly been hell * HH and Claudia both chuckle (HH) Been better th'n I thought (Morgan) for the most part (HH) Miss my lil darlin though * Morgan nods (Morgan) I know (HH) It's like a need, not a want. 'Er being around is important, y' know? (HH) **Claudia makes a face of disgust** (HH) C: That is not normal. * HH looks at Morgan, crossing his eyes (Morgan) one day the wind'll change and you'll get stuck like that (HH) That what happened to yer face? * Morgan nods (HH) **This ribbing continues a little while. They all go towards their separate rooms shortly after dinner, where it's at least warmer than Ashford was. HH puts a hand on Morgan's arm, speaking quietly "Lis'en, if y' dont want to sleep alone, I'll stay in your room with ya" (Morgan) Thank you, but I'll be alright * HH gives him a hug (HH) Come find me if y' need to (Morgan) I will (HH) G'dnight (Morgan) night man * HH goes to his own room ** You are now disconnected