------------------------------ Logging started for 192.168.1.82:#7thsea on Thursday, 11 November 2021 12:22:30 Greenwich Mean Time ------------------------------ ** You have joined #7thsea * Morgan rolls over, putting his hand on her shoulder, speaking quietly (Morgan) blossom... * Molly wakes, moving right up to him and starts to cry (Morgan) oh my darling, what's wrong? (Molly) *She sobs, clinging to him* Nightmare. I... I don't want... you having... the images... in your mind! * Morgan rocks her gently * Molly quitens a little "what... what time is it?" (Morgan) about an hour before dawn * Molly nods, taking a deep breath "You wanted to be in Tawstock..." (Morgan) No, this is important * Molly nods (Molly) It's just a nightmare... it can't happen, it's okay... * Morgan shrugs (Morgan) I don't care. I will not leave you like this * Molly stops crying but doesnt move away (Molly) How did you sleep? (Morgan) The usual * Molly sighs sadly (Molly) Will you write it? * Morgan nods (Morgan) but I'll tell you if you want... * Molly nods, the tension in her lessening. She stays close (Molly) Yes please. Your voice calms me (Morgan) I was in tawstock for the execution... when Dau came out, he was badmouthing you... the seed wasn't working. Told me Kit was coming here to set a fire... * Molly nods slowly (Molly) You are worrying about those things? (Morgan) apparently so. It was the forces working against me, according to Dau (Molly) Do you wish me to be more careful with Kit? (Morgan) I think so (Morgan) Do you want to tell me of yours? * Molly inhales deeply (Molly) Only if it will not affect things between us (Morgan) It won't (Molly) I… I was on the Rose… it was the night Kai and I had the meeting after he had spoken to you… He told me that he was going out of his way to help me and give me his friendship, and that it was only right that I should be friendly to him in return... (Morgan) right (Molly) He put his hands under my skirts… *she swallows hard* I didn't want to make a fuss, I needed his help with the Rose, I was scared what would happen if I stopped him… I'd have lost my future if he wouldn't help... * Morgan nods (Molly) But he… it was just awful. I was hurting, so badly... like how he touched Elsie… *she holds tighter to him* * Morgan rocks her again (Molly) It was going to get much worse, but you woke me (Morgan) Then I'm glad I did * Molly nods (Molly) Me too, liebling. That would have been so awful to endure (Morgan) I think perhaps this is because today sees his end? (Molly) Perhaps... it is the first time I have dreamt of it * Morgan nods * Molly loosens her grip (Molly) I am alright now, my love * Morgan nods, staying where he is (Morgan) good (Molly) Are you? * Morgan nods (Molly) You are sure? I wouldn't want things to change because of this... we're... I'm... things are so good right now (Morgan) it didn't happen... you didn't want it to happen... nothing has changed * Molly nods (Molly) I am glad. *she sighs softly* I suppose you should go now... ** You are now disconnected (Software caused connection abort) ------------------------------ Logging started for 192.168.1.82:#7thsea on Thursday, 11 November 2021 15:26:00 Greenwich Mean Time ------------------------------ ** You have joined #7thsea ** You are now disconnected (Connection timed out) ------------------------------ Logging started for 192.168.1.82:#7thsea on Thursday, 11 November 2021 17:10:31 Greenwich Mean Time ------------------------------ ** You have joined #7thsea ** You are now disconnected ------------------------------ Logging started for 192.168.1.82:#7thsea on Thursday, 11 November 2021 17:26:48 Greenwich Mean Time ------------------------------ ** You have joined #7thsea (Morgan) Aye, I should. I need to make sure Lady Torrington isn't going to meddle beforehand * Molly holds him tighter a few moments (Molly) Alright, my love * Morgan kisses her forehead before getting out of bed and getting dressed * Molly watches him do so (Molly) Are you taking Heinzharold? (Morgan) I'm not sure (Molly) You may wish him to watch over us? * Morgan nods * Molly nods (Molly) Those bottles there are for Catherine. The clear is to stop her being sick, the green is smelling salts incase she feels faint (Morgan) She should take the clear one before she leaves home? (Molly) Ideally around thirty minutes before it happens ** You are now disconnected (Connection timed out) ------------------------------ Logging started for 192.168.1.82:#7thsea on Thursday, 11 November 2021 19:09:50 Greenwich Mean Time ------------------------------ ** Reconnecting to 192.168.1.82:6667… ** You have joined #7thsea * Morgan nods (Morgan) I'll make sure she knows (Molly) Do you wish me to make you some? Though I am sure you have seen far worse... (Morgan) No, I'll manage (Morgan) how much should she take? (Molly) All of it * Morgan nods (Morgan) right (Molly) Is there anything you do need from me, my love? (Morgan) nothing more than your love * Molly smiles, blushing (Molly) There isn't a force on Theah that could stop that * Morgan nods (Morgan) I'll see you later * Molly smiles (Molly) I will be looking forward to it * Morgan nods, kissing her forehead before heading through the door * Molly sighs happily, closing her eyes again (Molly) **Heinzharold is making coffee in Morgan's kitchen** ** You're now known as HH (HH) Up at last! * Morgan frowns at him momentarily (Morgan) shut up (HH) Was gonna knock, but thought y' might be taking the morning advantage **he puts Morgan a cup of coffee on the table** (Morgan) No... I was calming her after a nightmare * HH looks serious (HH) Y'want me to go get Inga? (Morgan) Might be an idea, but I'm not sure... I want you stay on the estate today * HH sits with his own coffee (HH) What's goin' on? (Morgan) I had a nightmare too (HH) About here? * Morgan nods (HH) Wanna tell me? (Morgan) We were at the execution... Dau was no longer under our influence.. He'd sent Kit back here to set the place on fire (HH) Kit's on our side though? (Morgan) you know that for sure? (HH) I assumed you were sure o' it (Morgan) No... its possible there are external factors at play (HH) We going to have a word with 'im? * Morgan shrugs (Morgan) I don't know yet * HH nods (HH) He goin' to town? (Morgan) He's _meant_ to be * HH nods (HH) Gonna wait an' see what he does? (Morgan) I might... I might go early and send Claudia back * HH nods (HH) Whatever y' think. Lemme know what to do * Morgan nods, sipping his coffee * Morgan puts his cup down, sighing heavily * HH watches him (HH) What's on yer noggin? (Morgan) I don't know what to do... Its not the first time I've had a nightmare like this... (HH) About Kit? (Morgan) not specifically... Dau had come to my fathers home... I took him outside to beat him, and he'd managed to set a fire... (HH) Think maybe this is jus' because of the past? (Morgan) I don't know... * Morgan watches him for a moment (Morgan) This society... it has its opponents... (HH) Rival group? (Morgan) Something like... * HH nods (HH) Much prescence somewhere like this though? (Morgan) Presence enough... I was being watched by one of the society here, why not have the opposition here... (HH) Objective? (Morgan) You'll think I've gone mad * HH laughs (HH) Thought tha' years ago * Morgan watches him quietly * HH watches him back (HH) Go on (Morgan) Lets say something has to be done that needs me _and_ Molly to do it... the opposition simply need to stop it from happening. (HH) Kill one of you? * Morgan nods (Morgan) or make us incapable of performing said task... (HH) Are they thick as shit? (Morgan) Doesn't matter that I'd cut a bloody swathe across any country I needed to... the task, the big thing we're supposed to do... can't happen (HH) We've been away three weeks, Kit has been in and out of the cottages as he fancies, but _today_ he's going to wait til yer in town to hurt Molly. I just dont see it (Morgan) And Dau has been a monster for years, and for the last week can't speak to Claudia, cant hurt anyone, does everything he's told... (HH) But the seeds are from our side, right? (Morgan) doesn't stop someone else using them (HH) Use 'em first? Or take him to town (Morgan) They might not be the only thing in play (HH) This task... it's important? * Morgan nods (HH) How can I help? ** You are now disconnected ------------------------------ Logging started for 192.168.1.82:#7thsea on Thursday, 11 November 2021 21:42:24 Greenwich Mean Time ------------------------------ ** You have joined #7thsea ** You're now known as HH (HH) [21:39] (HH) How can I help? (Morgan) Take them to sunnymeade, don't tell anyone thats where you're going (HH) All of them? Elsie, James? * Morgan nods (HH) How soon? (Morgan) After Lady Torrington leaves for town... Kit will hopefully be with her (HH) Y' can't just get the task over an' done with, save you being so on edge? (Morgan) No (HH) Tha' would be much easier. When is it gonna be? * Morgan shrugs (HH) 'Times the ex'cution? (Morgan) midday * HH finishes his coffee (HH) Best muster m' troops then * Morgan nods (Morgan) You'll get Inga to talk to Molly? * HH nods (HH) If y' think she needs it * Morgan nods (Morgan) I think it'd help her * HH nods (HH) Gonna fetch us when yer done? * Morgan nods * HH pats his shoulder "they'll be fine" * Morgan nods (Morgan) aye. I'll see you later * HH goes next door. It's first light outside * Morgan heads to the main house (HH) **The servants are busy as usual, all very much like before he left. He hears a couple of "good morning, Master Hockridge"s * Morgan nods to them, asking if Catherine is up yet (HH) **they say she isnt yet (Morgan) and Lieutenant Cristoban? (HH) **Someone confirms he has altering for coffee (HH) Already rung* * Morgan nods, going to find him ** You're now known as Kit * Kit has a guest room not far from Morgan's old room, overlooking the valley * Morgan knocks (Kit) Come * Morgan pushes the door open * Kit is strapping on a sword belt (Kit) *he speaks Eisen* Good morning (Morgan) Whats your plan for today? (Kit) I was going to train as usual and then escort Her Grace to town * Morgan hands him the clear bottle (Morgan) have her drink that, all of it, about half hour before the execution (Kit) What is it? (Morgan) it'll help her not be sick * Kit nods, putting it on the dresser (Kit) Are you attending? * Morgan nods * Kit nods (Kit) It will be good for Catherine to have support (Morgan) You are not going to be there? (Kit) I will, but it is not the same for her as having you * Morgan shrugs (Morgan) I was only staff (Kit) Perhaps but I am sure she will benefit from you being with her (Morgan) She and I were discussing showing Dau mercy... (Kit) And what did you decide? (Morgan) She needs to not be lenient * Kit nods (Kit) It would be a bad move (Morgan) Short term it would ease the shock of whats coming... long term, it'd devastate her credibility with her people * Kit nods (Kit) She is at a disadvantage by being a young pretty unmarried woman. If her people lose respect for her, she is in trouble. In Eisen, we would be very concerned about this (Morgan) I _am_ concerned about it * Kit nods (Kit) At a personal level, I worry for her (Morgan) Then you should help her (Kit) I have been (Morgan) I need you to explain to her, convince her, that she cannot bend on this. (Kit) She intends to? (Morgan) Its on her mind... she's scared, and frightened people are unpredictable * Kit nods (Kit) I will deal with it * Morgan nods * Morgan turns to leave before stopping, turning back and looking at Kit frankly (Morgan) can I trust you? (Kit) With what? (Morgan) anything... everything... * Kit nods (Kit) I do not see any reason why not (Morgan) Who is working against the order? * Kit frowns (Kit) I don't understand (Morgan) Don't tell me you're naive enough to think no-one is working at odds with the orders goals... * Kit frowns still "There may be people who do not want the sort of peace in our homeland as we do, but to the best of my knowledge they are not aware of the Order to stand against it" (Morgan) Imagine the opposite... there is a society who wants the polar opposite of the order but has no idea its there... or worse, does, but hasn't been found out yet. (Kit) Do you have evidence of this or is it conjecture? (Morgan) Do you trust your instincts? * Kit nods (Kit) Generally, though noone is infallible (Morgan) then lets call it an instinct... * Kit nods (Kit) It is possible. I haven't heard of anything like that though (Morgan) When I get back to Eisen, I'll ask some people I think will know * Kit nods (Kit) Will Molly be training this morning? (Morgan) No. (Kit) That is a shame. She has come a long way since you were training her on the Solemn Wind * Morgan nods (Morgan) I know. She'll restart tomorrow. Today she stays inside (Kit) Is she unwell again? * Kit smiles (Kit) Oh! (Kit) She is sick frequently. She is with child? Congratulations! (Morgan) No... the stress of the day and my concerns for her safety (Kit) She and Elsie will both stay behind? (Morgan) with company * Kit nods (Kit) It will be unpleasant for them * Morgan nods (Morgan) quite. I will not allow that * Kit nods (Kit) Would you like to train? * Morgan nods slightly (Morgan) but quickly, I want to get to town early * Kit nods, heading through the halls and out to the courtyard. The training is brief but worthwhile. He picks up a new move from Kit, and is pleasantly warm when they are finished (Kit) I will have Catherine at the courthouse by half after eleven (Morgan) Make sure she drinks that tincture (Morgan) I'm going to do what I can to help her * Kit nods (Kit) I will * Morgan nods (Morgan) see you there * Kit sheaths his sword before going in through the dining room ** You are now disconnected ------------------------------ Logging started for 192.168.1.82:#7thsea on Friday, 12 November 2021 10:48:31 Greenwich Mean Time ------------------------------ ** You have joined #7thsea (Molly) **Dawn comes whilst he rides the seven miles to Tawstock. The day looks grey and cold. At the square the platform is already erected, and a man who looks likely to be the executioner is sat on the steps eating his breakfast. It's fairly quiet here. * Morgan scouts the area for vantage points to keep an eye on (Molly) **Nothing really stands out. Most of the buildings around the square are a little far, and if she stays on the courthouse steps she will be under cover * Morgan nods to himself, going looking for the Rose ** You're now known as Sorgi * Sorgi is on deck. The Rose looks like she has been settled a little while * Morgan heads up the plank, tapping the horseshoe (Sorgi) Good morning m'lord (Morgan) Sorgi. All is well? * Sorgi nods (Sorgi) Nothing to report, m'lord (Morgan) No sign of the blessing of angels? (Sorgi) Not yet. Maybe they got caught in the dead zone (Morgan) you're the second person to suggest that... * Sorgi nods (Sorgi) We will keep watching for them * Morgan nods (Morgan) I need to speak to Dau * Sorgi nods (Sorgi) He's where he should be * Morgan nods, heading down to the brig (Sorgi) **Claudia is sat there on a chair, legs up on the door frame like a barrier. She's sharpening a dagger ** You're now known as Claudia * Morgan looks at her a moment (Morgan) morning * Claudia nods (Claudia) You're early * Morgan nods (Morgan) Usually (Claudia) Everyone alright? (Morgan) Molly had a nightmare, related to *he nodes in Daus direction*. So did I. HeinzHarolds staying with them * Claudia nods (Claudia) Bit paranoid now? (Morgan) Some... playing it safe * Claudia nods (Claudia) What do you want me to do? (Morgan) I want you to go and help him keep them safe * Claudia looks surprised (Claudia) You dont want me at the execution? * Morgan sighs (Morgan) I do... * Morgan motions her away from the door, moving out of earshot of Dau * Claudia follows him (Morgan) HeinzHarold is taking the others to Beth... after Lady Torrington has left. I had a nightmare, and I'm taking precautions. * Claudia nods (Claudia) Alright, want me to go now? (Morgan) No-one knows they're going to be there... they'd probably be fine... (Claudia) I'll get my stuff (Morgan) do you feel the need to see him meet his end? * Claudia shakes her head "It's only guts, I've seen it before" * Morgan nods (Morgan) then I would appreciate you going * Claudia puts away the dagger (Claudia) See you later then * Morgan nods * Morgan nods, moving back to the brig ** You're now known as Kai * Kai is still reading the bible like last time (Morgan) Colonel * Kai looks up (Kai) What do you want, Morgan? (Morgan) Are involved in, or do you have any knowledge of a plot to kill my wife (Kai) No (Morgan) When the pain comes during your execution... you will faint, and you will stay unconscious until it is over (Kai) Yes (Morgan) If you cannot faint, you will not cry out or make any noise (Kai) Yes (Morgan) You want some coffee? (Kai) Yes (Morgan) I've got some from Cafe Kaffee... that suit you? (Kai) Yes please * Morgan nods, going to fetch it (Kai) **everything is peaceful on the ship, Cook gives him some coffee to take * Morgan takes it down, placing it on the floor just inside the bars before backing away * Kai takes it before sitting back on the bunk "Thank you" * Morgan nods (Morgan) Do you find the reading helps? (Kai) The praying and solitude takes me back to days in monestaries (Morgan) Then I shall leave you in peace * Kai nods, opening the holy book again * Morgan heads up on deck before letting out a long breath ** You're now known as Sorgi (Sorgi) Alright, m'lord? * Morgan nods (Morgan) Aye, I'll manage Sorgi * Sorgi nods (Sorgi) No one's done your plants yet today, if you need a task, m'lord * Morgan smiles, nodding (Morgan) thank you Sorgi (Sorgi) **he nods. With Florrie's instructions that they must be watered with rain water and then taken up on deck into the sunlight for an hour, this leaves him about fifteen minutes before anyone is due to collect Kai ((anything specific?)) (Morgan) ((nope)) (Sorgi) **Kai is taken by guards, leaving the holy book and empty coffee cup on the bunk. He is very compliant as he is led off the ship and onto the dock. Sorgi watches him go * Morgan watches them (Sorgi) Good riddance, m'lord? (Morgan) not yet... (Sorgi) Staying? * Morgan shakes his head (Morgan) I promised Lady Torrington I would be at her side... * Sorgi nods (Sorgi) Hope it goes well (Morgan) as do I... I'll let you know before I head back to the estate * Sorgi nods (Sorgi) **The town is going to be busy, and it'll be hard to find stabling, so he leaves his horse with Sorgi at the ship. A quick glance shows no sign of the Blessing yet, so he goes back to the town hall steps where Catherine and Kit wait. (Sorgi) **For a moment, it seems like the situation with Alarice all over again. An executioner in a mask, someone requiring his support at his side, a danger to Molly overcome again** (Sorgi) **The crowd is even larger than at the trial. He briefly spots Peter and Sir Dagget in the crowd, as well as Mr Roberts nearby. Several staff from the house are there, and lots of locals he vaguely knows from his years there. * Morgan hands Catherine the balm (Morgan) put some of that under your nose ** You're now known as Catherine * Catherine does so. She looks pale, apprehensive and completely out of her depth, but she still looks at the jar "It's lavender?" (Morgan) Something like that (Morgan) you took the tincture I gave to Kurt? (Catherine) **Kit looks at him** She did * Morgan nods (Morgan) good * Catherine holds the jar for him to smell (Catherine) K: smells more like Edelweiss und fir trees. Have you ever been to ze Angeholm Wald, Morgan? (Morgan) I tend to avoid forests where possible (Catherine) K: It smells like zis * Catherine does up the lid and hands it back. The crowd looks eager for the spectacle to begin (Morgan) it should help you stay calm (Catherine) Thank you * Morgan nods before slowly turning a full circle, surveying the crowd for threats (Catherine) **Noone seems interested in Catherine at all, all eyes on the place brutality will occur on (Catherine) Should I call for mercy? **she also is watching the platform, talking quietly** * Morgan glances at Kit before turning to face Catherine, giving her his full attention (Morgan) If you do that, how would it be viewed? (Catherine) K: Absolutely not, your Grace **she looks to him* You're _Eisen_, you wouldn't understand! (Catherine) K: *he looks impassively over the platform** yes, your Grace. * Catherine looks to Morgan "I am sorry, but I don't think he can understand it from my point of view" (Morgan) You are a kind, gentle young woman... you don't want anyone to suffer, I know that. But the lieutenant is correct. If you call for mercy, the people will see it that you do not trust your judges, that you will commute a sentence for one more palatable for your acquaintances... Piram will see it as an indicator that you are not strong enough to protect your people. * Catherine sighs (Catherine) I suppose you're right (Morgan) There will be a time for mercy and leniency, but I promise you, this is not it * Catherine nods, watching as Kai is led up the steps to cheers of the crowd (Catherine) I can't believe this... I liked him... now I am killing him (Catherine) **Kurt watches her sympathetically* (Morgan) You are ensuring the punishment for his crime is carried out... you are telling all of these people that no-one hurts them without consequence * Catherine moves closer to Morgan, a hand on his arm. Kai crosses himself before the hood is put over his face and the rope around his neck. The cheering of the crowd is gleeful and unpleasantly bloodthirsty, all supposedly for a girl they would cross the street to avoid if she was still working * Morgan puts his hand on top of hers, speaking quietly (Morgan) stay strong my friend (Catherine) **The executioner kicks out the stool, and the rope snaps as Kai's weight kits it. Though he kicks around just as any man being hanged would, he is silent. Catherine grimaces, her hand very tight on his arm. Kit stands silent and rigid on her other side. The cheering continues * Morgan keeps his hand on hers (Catherine) **The executioner cuts Kai down whilst he is still twitching, dumping him onto a table like a pig's carcass. Kai pulls at the hood to try to remove it, but he's weak. The crowd, most of whom have never seen this before, get quieter as the executioner gets out his tools for the rest of the process. Catherine whispers (Catherine) I could stop this, make him stab him in the heart, anything but this! * Morgan gives her the balm again (Morgan) inhale it, deeply... (Catherine) **She does so. The executioner slices through the fabric and through skin. Morgan can see the moment the pain starts, because Kai goes completely limp. * Morgan squeezes catherines hand (Morgan) There look... he isn't feeling it anymore. * Catherine holds on tight enough that her nails draw blood. The executioner sinks his hands into Kai's living body, pulling out fleshy ropes of his intestines, bloody and raw. The crowd starts to make not noises of enthusiasm, horrified gasps, some retching. It is like watching a magician pulling silk scarves from a hat, more and more, seemingly unceasing. Kai occasionally twitches, but there's no sound aside from the wet thuds of guts on wooden boards and the horror of the crowd * Morgan glances at Kit (Catherine) **Kit stands still, hands clasped. It's very much like the men stood on the deck of the Oreste when Morgan was flogged** (Catherine) **People start to vomit, or leave, some do both. Their excitement about the execution seems to be over. Peter doesnt move, his arms just folded, expression fixed and grim. The executioner eventually runs out of innards, changing to a longer more curved blade. Catherine presses her face to Morgan's arm "I can't bear any more!" * Morgan places a hand on her back, rocking gently, looking at Kit (Morgan) Kurt... (Catherine) **he turns his attention to Morgan, speaking in Eisen** Yes? (Morgan) I think she can go home... She's proven her mettle, no-one will doubt her (Catherine) **he nods** You will see it through to the end? * Morgan nods * Morgan puts his head near Catherines (Morgan) Catherine... Kurt going to take you home now. Get some tea and maybe go to bed for a while... * Catherine nods a little as Kit comes to gently lead her away towards her waiting coach. The crowd is down to about half now, but his brother in law remains steadfastly, watching as Kai's heart is removed * Morgan moves towards Peter, rubbing his arm as he walks ** You're now known as Peter * Peter looks so much like David with this serious look (Morgan) You alright? * Peter nods (Peter) Are you? (Morgan) Never nice to see * Peter nods (Peter) A little easier when you do a lot of your own butchery * Morgan nods (Morgan) most of this lot don't (Peter) **the exodus continues, there's only a quarter of the number left when the executioner gets out the hand axe to start quartering the former Freiarr Prachtig * Peter nods (Peter) It didn't happen to my sister, but it could have. I need to see it finished. * Morgan nods (Morgan) He wanted it to be * Peter nods (Peter) And we all let Molly be in Elsie's situation * Morgan nods slowly (Peter) **The is a repetive thud like meat being hacked and split (Peter) What happens to him now? (Morgan) I'm afraid I can't argue with that (Morgan) I suppose the proper thing would be to ship him back to Eisen to be buried, but I can't say I'm particularly enthused to do that... (Peter) Better to stick him in a paupers grave somewhere. That much exposed innards, your ship would be full of flies by the time you got there (Morgan) thats why he wouldn't be going on _my_ ship... but yes, I think you're right * Peter nods (Peter) **he continues to watch quietly, even as Kai's head is removed** That's that then. * Morgan nods (Morgan) aye. (Peter) I'm going to get back home. Beth had a lot of practice pains overnight, I need to take over with the others so she can sleep * Morgan nods (Morgan) thank you... I'll come collect them before too long (Peter) Collect who? (Morgan) the others... (Peter) I can handle the children. I appreciate the offer though (Peter) **there's almost noone left now** (Morgan) Ah... I was concerned for Molly and Varick and Elsie, so I had HeinzHarold take them to Sunnymeade (Peter) Must have arrived after I left * Morgan nods * Peter bids him farewell. A couple of guards are dragging a coffin. It sounds vaguely like the Schattenmann, sticks over stony ground, just like when Edward dragged Alarice's coffin out after Morgan killed her * Morgan shudders, going to find a justice of the peace to arrange a burial (Peter) **It is very simply arranged, given the option of a quiet corner in the churchyards either in the town, lower Tawstock, or Catherine's chapel yard on her estate * Morgan ops for the churchyard in the town (Peter) **by the time this is done, the dismembered corpse has been shovelled into the coffin, the guards about to hammer in the nails. Again, this is like with Alarice, where he, Edward and Molly all bashed the nails in together before the Nieblungen altered Edward's memory * Morgan watches until the nails are in before heading to the Rose ** You're now known as Sorgi * Sorgi is waiting for him, watching him solemnly (Sorgi) All over, m'lord? * Morgan nods (Sorgi) How are you, m'lord? (Morgan) I'm alright Sorgi * Sorgi nods (Sorgi) The Blessing has just come on to the river. Half an hour or so * Morgan nods (Morgan) I may as well wait for them before heading to ge the others then * Sorgi nods (Sorgi) There's lunch aside for you, if you can stomach it * Morgan nods (Morgan) Thank you... I'll give it a try, but the coffee will be welcomed at the very least. (Sorgi) I'll come and find you when they're docked, m'lord * Morgan nods, heading to his study to eat (Sorgi) **without the cat, wife or child his study seems very quiet * Morgan picks at his lunch, drinking the coffee (Sorgi) It's approaching quarter before two when Sorgi comes to get him with the information that the Blessing has safely docked * Morgan thanks him, asking him to arrange a coach before heading down onto the dock ** You're now known as Alice * Alice is busily giving her crew instructions as the gangplank is put down * Morgan waits patiently at the bottom * Alice spots him (Alice) Sorry we're late (Morgan) Hit a patch of still air by any chance? * Alice nods (Alice) Permission to board. Bad weather then no weather, it was very odd ** You are now disconnected (Ping timeout) ------------------------------ Logging started for 192.168.1.82:#7thsea on Friday, 12 November 2021 16:47:44 Greenwich Mean Time ------------------------------ ** You have joined #7thsea * Morgan walks up the gangplank, touching the horseshoe (Morgan) my captain says its quite rare... we got caught in it * Alice looks around the dock (Alice) Not bad. I haven't been on this side of the country before (Morgan) Considering whats gone on this morning, its fairing well * Alice looks concerned (Alice) There's trouble here? (Morgan) No... a sentence to carry out is all. All done and dusted * Alice nods (Alice) Are your family all well? * Morgan nods (Morgan) They're visiting with my wife's brother (Alice) I will want to spend the day looking at trade possibilities. Perhaps we can visit you tomorrow if you are available? (Morgan) We shall make ourselves available... We have, if you wish it, arranged for accommodation at Lady Torrington estate (Alice) Is it nearby? (Morgan) A few miles (Alice) We will stay tomorrow night then, if it wont be a bother to her Ladyship (Morgan) There's room at the cottage my wife and son are in, if you don't mind sharing with Florrie, but I understand if you wish to stay in the main house (Alice) I share with Florrie now, it's warmer. * Morgan nods (Alice) We will be with you in the early afternoon then * Morgan nods (Morgan) sounds good. We'll have lunch ready. I'll have a coach available for you (Alice) Thank you. Did you want to see her? (Morgan) Would that be alright? * Alice nods (Alice) She's in the study * Morgan nods, heading down to see her (Alice) **There's a crewman in there reading a book whilst the girl is watering her plants ** You're now known as Florrie * Morgan knocks on the door quietly (Florrie) **The crewman lets him in* * Morgan sits on the floor, watching Florrie (Florrie) **The similarity is still a bit of a shock no matter how much he expects it. She soon spots him, coming to him (Florrie) Hello (Morgan) Hello Florrie... how are you? (Florrie) Got stuck. No wind. No rain for plants * Morgan nods (Morgan) We got stuck in that as well (Florrie) Plants okay? * Morgan nods (Morgan) doing fine * Florrie holds out her hand (Florrie) See new flowers? * Morgan nods, taking her hand * Florrie takes him over by the window where there is a fully white daffodil and one that is pale and dark pink (Morgan) very pretty * Florrie concentrates. There's a prickle on his neck as she touches the petals of the pink flower which then closes and opens * Morgan watches what she's doing * Florrie leaves the petals open (Florrie) See pictures? (Morgan) pictures? * Florrie takes him to the desk, getting a sketch book from a drawer. She hands it to him * Morgan looks through it (Florrie) **unsurprisingly, it's all paintings of flowers. It's very childlike and quite haphazard in shape and detail, but the colour use is way above her age (Morgan) these are very good (Florrie) Like painting * Morgan nods (Morgan) I like drawing * Florrie roots in the drawer for a pencil (Florrie) Draw? * Morgan nods, taking it (Morgan) what would you like me to draw? * Florrie shrugs (Florrie) You draw * Morgan nods, setting about drawing Florrie * Florrie stands very still. It is surreal, because aside from less shading of the irises, he could easily be drawing Jana * Morgan sighs slightly, handing it to her once he's done * Florrie smiles "Florrie" * Morgan nods (Morgan) yes, it is (Florrie) Thank you (Morgan) You are quite welcome. I need to go to see my family. I'll see you tomorrow, alright?\ * Florrie hugs him * Morgan smiles, hugging her * Florrie lets go (Florrie) Bye (Morgan) Goodbye little lady * Morgan nods to the crewman before heading out and back up on deck ** You're now known as Alice * Alice is up in the highest parts of the rigging * Morgan hauls himself up to her (Alice) Does she need me? ** You are now disconnected (Ping timeout) ------------------------------ Logging started for 192.168.1.82:#7thsea on Saturday, 13 November 2021 14:14:58 Greenwich Mean Time ------------------------------ ** You have joined #7thsea (Morgan) Bye (Morgan) Goodbye little lady (Morgan) * Morgan nods to the crewman before heading out and back up on deck (Morgan) * Florrie is now known as Alice (Morgan) * Alice is up in the highest parts of the rigging (Morgan) * Morgan hauls himself up to her (Morgan) Does she need me? (Morgan) No, she's quite happy with her plants. * Morgan looks at the sails * Alice nods "she usually is". The sails have been repaired and patched far more times than he would before replacing them (Morgan) These have seen better days * Alice nods (Alice) They have. Expensive though. I replace them one at a time when I absolutely must (Morgan) It must cost you some time on each journey... * Alice nods (Alice) Sometimes I think the wind must go right through the threadbare bits (Morgan) Best get something done about them then... * Alice shrugs (Alice) When I can (Morgan) Would you let me help? * Alice thinks (Alice) I don't want to, but it would help me provide for Florrie, and I would walk over glass for her (Morgan) Its not conditional on anything. And if it makes it easier, it isn't for you, its for her. (Alice) It does, and we thank you for your generosity * Morgan shrugs (Morgan) just taking care of family (Alice) Thank you * Morgan nods (Morgan) I'll arrange it with the harbour master before I go. * Alice smiles (Alice) That would be wonderful, I'm touched. * Morgan nods (Morgan) I'll see you tomorrow,,, * Alice nods (Alice) We will be there * Morgan nods before dropping down the rigging rapidly (Alice) **he finds the coach he asked Sorgi to get ready and waiting, his horse also ready for the two mile trip to Sunnymeade * Morgan informs the coachman he won't be needed until tomorrow before mounting up and going to see the harbour master ** You're now known as harbourmaste * harbourmaste offers him a seat * Morgan takes it (harbourmaste) What can I do today? (Morgan) Couple of things... You saw her Grace follow through on Colonel Dau's punishment... (harbourmaste) I did (Morgan) You were concerned she would let him off... (harbourmaste) Not particularly. She wasn't going to let him free. Dead is dead, eventually. (Morgan) Whats the general feeling in the town now? (harbourmaste) Everyone's a bit stunned by it at the moment * Morgan nods (Morgan) that'll pass * harbourmaste nods (harbourmaste) I can ask around and let you know in a few days? * Morgan nods (Morgan) please (Morgan) Now... onto the blessing of angels... (harbourmaste) Yes? (Morgan) She's going to need new sails (harbourmaste) Won't be cheap (Morgan) Is it ever (harbourmaste) Seventy five guilders for a ship that size (Morgan) Building in a decent margin... (harbourmaste) Standard cost, including workmanship * Morgan nods (Morgan) I'll be paying for it * harbourmaste nods (harbourmaste) Very well, I'll have the invoice sent to your ship. When do you want it done? (Morgan) as soon as possible. She's docked now * harbourmaste nods (harbourmaste) I'll have it done by the end of tomorrow * Morgan nods (Morgan) thank you (harbourmaste) Was there anything else? * Morgan shakes his head (harbourmaste) **this dealt with, he's able to get on the road * Morgan heads to sunnymeade (harbourmaste) **The weather is dry. The people he sees on the way are often huddled in groups gossiping. There's a quietness to the area, not mourning but solemn and subdued * Morgan tries to get an ear to what they're saying (harbourmaste) **they're mostly talking about how it should never happen again, how gory it was** * Morgan stops at one of the groups, watching them (harbourmaste) **they are a group of older working men, and keep chatting amongst themselves (Morgan) Whats the word, gentlemen? ** You're now known as Man (Man) Nasty business, Master. How's the lassie? (Morgan) Elsie? * Man nods (Morgan) Aside from the fact she likely only has weeks left at most... we've managed to stop the constant bleeding and she isn't in _constant_ pain anymore... (Man) **The men all look grim** (Man) Good that that man is dead (Morgan) I'm hearing a lot of grumbling that it was too far... (Man) Was a bit gruesome, but can't have people going round doing that. Maybe that'll learn them * Morgan nods (Morgan) Seems her Grace is serious about changing things * Man nods (Man) Surprised she stayed for it. Cant have been easy, young woman like that (Morgan) No, I suspect thats going to haunt her dreams for some time... but she wanted to show that she's serious about keeping everyone safe, I think * Man nods (Man) Think it was pretty brave of her **the rest agree* * Morgan nods (Morgan) I agree (Man) Thought Forrester's daughter might have come for it (Morgan) Why? (Man) Lots of stuff at the trial about how she, the girl and that bastard were connected. Thought she'd want to see him die (Morgan) She did... do you know what she's doing now? (Man) No (Morgan) She's with Elsie. Caring for her, and she's going to be there when the baby is born... I think thats more important than seeing what happened today, dont you? * Man nods (Man) Aye. Not pleasant for women to see anyway (Morgan) And yet many turned up to see it... at least now its obvious what will happen to any man who tries similar... (Man) **they all nod** (Man) Gonna be a long time before anyone forgets that * Morgan nods (Man) **they go back to talking amongst themselves about something else * Morgan urges the horse onwards (Man) **the trip is uneventful and he arrives without incident. Things sound cheerful in the kitchen Sunnymeade when he gets there, Heinzharold is making bear noises, crawling around the floor and the children laughing and running away from him. Molly and Inga are cleaning. Elsie James and Claudia are sat by the fire. There's no sign of Peter or Beth* ** You're now known as Molly * Morgan leans against the doorjamb, watching them (Molly) **Varick comes running over to hug him. The activity and chatter of the other grown ups stops, except HH who is still being a bear** (Molly) [Are you alright?] * Morgan picks Varick up, hugging him (Morgan) [aye] (Molly) V:Papa, there's a bear and he's trying to eat us! (Morgan) oh no... are you tasty? * Molly speaks quietly to Inga before making a cup of tea (Molly) **he shrugs** Don't know, never been eaten by an animal before (Morgan) Best keep out of his reach then * Molly brings Morgan tea (Molly) **Varick tries to get down, wanting to play * Morgan lets him down before looking at Molly (Morgan) Could I have a moment in private? * Molly sets the tea on the counter (Molly) Here, or in the hayloft? (Morgan) Hayloft I think * Molly goes to whisper to Inga before taking off her apron. Soon they're walking across the yard then in the little space in the hayloft once more. She lets him get comfortable before squeezing in opposite him (Molly) What's the matter, liebling? **she holds out her hand to him* * Morgan takes it for a moment, kissing it knuckles before letting go and shrugging out of his shirt, turning his arm to her (Morgan) Could you possibly deal with this? * Molly looks perplexed a moment before looking at his arm with a deep frown. She speaks quietly (Molly) Who did this to you? (Morgan) It wasn't intentional (Molly) I should hope not! * Molly lays her hand over it, concentrating a moment. The pleasant feeling comes, as does the neck prickling. He's rapidly back to normal * Morgan looks at it before nodding (Morgan) thank you * Molly watches him (Molly) You are welcome (Molly) **There's a dull rumble of thunder overhead** * Morgan puts his shirt back on (Morgan) I didn't want Varick seeing it * Molly nods slowly (Molly) Yes, though you may need to roll up your sleeves * Morgan nods, doing so * Molly watches his hands a moment before looking at him (Molly) It is over then? * Morgan nods (Morgan) aye, it is * Molly nods, looking out of the little window (Molly) Looks like rain (Morgan) Its Avalon... * Molly nods (Molly) How is Catherine? * Morgan sighs (Morgan) distraught * Molly nods (Morgan) How are you? * Molly shrugs (Molly) I am not sure * Morgan nods, holding out his hands * Molly takes them (Morgan) talk to me blossom (Molly) I'm relieved, and still angry, and disappointed, and worried for you, and apprehensive about the final part of all of this (Morgan) why disappointed? (Molly) Because he turned out to be such a monster, when at first I just thought him a bit arrogant and challenging (Morgan) Even Kit didn't see it, and he knew him much better * Molly nods (Molly) I am not disappointed in myself, I am disappointed in him * Morgan nods * Molly squeezes his hands (Morgan) You needn't worry for me (Molly) I always do. You are my primary concern. How _are_ you? Was it awful? (Morgan) It was horrendous, but its what he deserved. * Molly nods, bowing her head "Certainly no less than Elsie has suffered for months" * Morgan nods (Molly) Do you feel that it was right not to intervene? (Morgan) I did to a point, but not for his sake (Molly) I meant in regards to her weakening the sentence * Morgan nods (Morgan) You were right (Molly) There were arguments in both directions, I could certainly understand the opposite side * Morgan nods (Morgan) had it been the verdict from the outset, it would've been alright... but that punishment was only in place because I demanded it * Molly tilts her head (Molly) You regret it? (Morgan) It doesn't really help my desire to not be seen as a monster, does it * Molly kisses his palm (Molly) These comments have bothered you greatly, I think? * Morgan nods (Molly) Oh liebling... you are not a monster at all. * Morgan shrugs slightly (Molly) You aren't. All the things you do to help everyone, the way you care about people, that would not be possible if you were * Morgan sighs (Morgan) maybe * Molly kisses the other palm (Molly) Look at Innesbruck, how you have turned the town around, worked with your own hands to fix and build. And Elsie... the maids at His Grace's house... the way you took me under your wing and nurtured me... how you have even given _Edward_ another chance... * Molly watches him * Morgan sighs heavily (Morgan) I suppose so (Molly) And look how you have overcome so much to take Varick from the hell of his life with Alarice to love and nurture him with such gentleness and tenderness, despite how incredibly painful letting him in must have been. A monster could do no such thing. * Morgan nods, rubbing his face * Molly apologises, letting go of his other hand too (Morgan) I don't want to be a monster... yet hearing I'm not is difficult * Molly nods (Molly) I will keep trying, forever if I need to, until you see yourself as even half the man I see you as * Morgan nods * Molly smiles a little (Molly) Husband privilege, you see? (Morgan) husband privilege? (Molly) My spending years telling you how wonderful you are * Morgan nods (Morgan) I see (Molly) I think we should probably get back to the estate, if you no longer have concerns about our safety? * Morgan nods (Morgan) where is Peter? (Molly) I sent him for a nap with Beth... * Morgan smiles slightly * Molly frowns very slightly (Molly) Not that sort of nap, my love... (Morgan) You've been spending too much time with HeinzHarold * Molly smiles (Molly) No, I rather think that it's that things have been more... relaxed, since you returned (Morgan) I'm still blaming HeinzHarold * Molly smiles (Molly) Well in that case, I will thank him * Morgan nods (Morgan) Alice's ship has arrived * Molly nods slowly (Molly) Alright... it was starting to be a little concerning * Morgan nods (Morgan) indeed (Morgan) They hit the same weather as we did (Molly) Have you seen her today? * Morgan nods (Morgan) before I came back here * Molly watches him closely (Molly) How are you feeling about it all now? * Morgan shrugs (Morgan) I'm not sure * Molly nods (Molly) When are we to see them? (Morgan) Tomorrow afternoon * Molly nodd (Molly) Are they to stay with us? (Morgan) I don't know yet... we'll have to see how everyone feels * Molly nods (Molly) It shouldn't be too difficult to arrange * Morgan nods (Morgan) aye * Molly watches him a moment before fidgeting (Molly) I should check on Beth before we go * Morgan nods (Morgan) alright blossom (Molly) *she frowns a little* She's a little tired… and very… quiet, I suppose. Like she is calmly preoccupied? (Molly) **He remembers this with Dietlinde, the few days before Jana was born, how all she wanted to do was just sit with him on the couch watching the orange and yellow flames moving over the logs as he stroked her hair, words unnecessary, no more desire to sew, just a quiet gathering of her herself in preparation* * Morgan nods slowly (Morgan) Then its going to be soon... a couple of days perhaps (Molly) She is due tomorrow, she believes. It is a sign...? (Morgan) it was the same with Dietlinde and Jana... * Molly nods a little (Molly) Alright. Let's go then * Morgan nods, moving out of the hayloft * Molly carefully follows him carefully down the ladder. It takes a little while to get everyone gathered back up and goodbyes said, but soon Heinzharold is driving the carriage Catherine has been letting them use. Molly opts to squeeze into the carriage with James, Elsie, Inga and Varick. Claudia stands beside her horse, looking at Morgan "What do you want me doing now?" ** You're now known as Claudia (Morgan) You can head back if you want to * Claudia nods (Claudia) How did it go? (Morgan) as it was meant to * Claudia checks the others are out of earshot (Claudia) How do you feel about not doing it yourself? * Morgan shrugs (Morgan) If I'd done it it would have been cruelty... I don't want to be cruel. (Claudia) Any satisfaction out of seeing him suffer? (Morgan) Curiously, I was more satisfied seeing his humiliation being taken to the courthouse * Claudia nods (Claudia) Just the birth to get through now... * Morgan nods (Morgan) I think we're all worried about that * Claudia nods (Claudia) After all the shit of chasing him down and getting him executed, it's not going to be good to lose her, or both of them * Morgan shrugs, looking slightly awkward (Claudia) You're more worried about what Molly will be like if she can't do it? (Morgan) I'm worried for her... I don't think we'll lose the child... as for Elsie, I just don't know (Claudia) Could be any day now? * Morgan nods (Morgan) realistically, yes... I hope not. Much as I know you hate hanging around, I'd like her to have a while longer being happy * Claudia nods (Claudia) She deserves some time now that bastard is dead and gone * Morgan nods (Morgan) aye (Claudia) Just gotta wait until it's all done. What comes after that? Back to Eisen for Edward, or round to Catterick? (Morgan) Depends when it happens. If we have time, up to Catterick again, if we don't, back home * Claudia nods (Claudia) Assuming there's still a wedding to go to (Morgan) Either way I've got to go back... this isn't the sort of thing to be told in a letter (Claudia) No, he's not going to be happy to discover he has a surprise child (Morgan) No, not at all (Claudia) Amazing the things men will risk for their lust. (Morgan) Wasn't that simple * Claudia shrugs, checking on the horse's bridle (Claudia) In general. * Morgan nods * Claudia gets saddled up "I'll be with the Rose, might ride up at the weekend, see how you are." * Morgan nods (Morgan) be good to see you. We'll catch up then. The blessing of angels is in dock, so you're not surprised * Claudia nods (Claudia) It's seeing you with her that really does it * Morgan nods (Morgan) its still like a kick in the chest when I see her (Claudia) Yeah, understandable. Just reach out to one of us if it gets bad, or the flashbacks get bad. Don't try to be all noble and closed off, okay? * Morgan nods * Claudia inclines her head before walking her horse on, leaving Morgan to saddle up and follow the carriage right out of the drive. This gives him more than an hour alone to just ride as the light starts to fade a little. Once at the estate, the others hurry indoors out of the drizzle, and grooms deal with the horses * Morgan goes to find Catherine ** You're now known as Catherine * Catherine is once more in her private rooms * Morgan knocks (Catherine) Come in * Morgan does so * Catherine is doing embroidery, the fire burning very hotly (Catherine) Ah, Morgan. Come and take a seat * Morgan nods, doing so (Catherine) How are you? * Morgan shrugs (Morgan) I'm alright... you? (Catherine) Cold. It's like a chill in my bones that I can't be rid of * Morgan nods (Morgan) Thats understandable (Catherine) I keep asking myself "is that who I am now, a woman who does that? I did it, so I must be " (Morgan) You're the woman who didn't interfere with justice. Who didn't stop the punishment of a man who violated one of your people in a manner of such brutality it left those of us raised in war shocked * Catherine nods (Catherine) It just seems wrong. It's not something I ever expected to do (Morgan) Its my fault... I demanded it. (Catherine) You needed him to suffer for his intentions and the harm he did Elsie. It was a fair compromise when I asked you not to do it yourself (Morgan) When he was... hurting her, with her red hair... he called her Molly. * Catherine shakes her head "Oh Morgan I'm sorry" * Morgan nods (Morgan) He didn't feel it... if that helps at all (Catherine) I am not sure, really. It has been a long day * Morgan nods (Morgan) I did not realise how much you lean on me... I'm sorry I left you alone for so long (Catherine) You deserve a happy life, and it isnt one you can live here. I am sorry you are going (Morgan) I won't be here in person, but I will always be here for you * Catherine nods (Catherine) What is it that marriage gives you, Morgan? Aside from the heirs and the politics of it. What is the benefit? * Morgan draws a deep breath (Morgan) In my case... love, support, someone to confide in, to care for... It banishes loneliness... You are thinking about it? (Catherine) I wasn't... I've been enjoying my freedom, but all this feels like a very heavy burden to carry alone. I managed to avoid my responsibility here, but it's time for me to shoulder it. * Morgan nods (Morgan) lean on Mr Roberts... its part of what he's here for. * Catherine nods (Catherine) Kurt is leaving on Sunday * Morgan nods (Morgan) he has much to do * Catherine nods (Catherine) He has to deal with winding down the company,and may start his own mercenary company he says (Morgan) that would be a good idea (Catherine) When will you be here until? (Morgan) Until Elsie has given birth at least * Catherine nods (Catherine) The baby is to be a Forrester I hear * Morgan nods (Morgan) Mollys sister in law is expecting any day now, so it made sense (Catherine) It is nice that Molly's family will take the baby in (Morgan) Given how they failed her in the past and what she's done for them recently, it was the least they could do * Catherine nods (Catherine) It was very lucky that you hired her when she was cast out **He didn't. He'd been there barely a month when Mary the maid presented Molly to him in a maid's uniform and said she had been hired... very likely he assumed Catherine had done it herself* * Morgan frowns (Morgan) I thought you had * Catherine shakes her head (Catherine) Absolutely not. I... I wouldn't have accepted a girl who had been cast out, I am embarrassed to admit (Morgan) Things change, yes? * Catherine nods (Catherine) Definitely (Morgan) I wonder who hired her... she was presented to me one day in a uniform * Catherine frowns (Morgan) Is Mary still here? * Catherine nods (Catherine) In the kitchens (Morgan) I'll speak to her shortly * Catherine nods (Catherine) Very lucky that she intervened, or you may never have met! (Morgan) quite (Morgan) Though I'm certain we'd have crossed paths eventually * Catherine smiles (Catherine) That's romantic (Morgan) Not really my style is it (Catherine) No (Catherine) Have your sister in law and niece arrived? (Morgan) They're in town... They'll be coming tomorrow, spending today looking for trade opportunities * Catherine nods (Catherine) I will ask my man of business if you like? (Morgan) I would appreciate that * Catherine nods (Catherine) How is Elsie feeling now Kai is gone? * Morgan shrugs (Morgan) I've not had chance to talk to her... * Catherine nods (Catherine) I will let you go then, I know your son's bedtime is six * Morgan nods, standing up (Morgan) I think you should know... I'm very proud of you * Catherine smiles (Catherine) Thank you * Morgan inclines his head before going off to find Mary ** You're now known as Mary * Mary is chopping vegetables in the kitchen (Morgan) Mary... a word * Mary puts down the knife, moving into the empty dining room (Mary) Yes Master Hockridge? (Morgan) Who hired Molly Forrester? (Mary) Oh... well... I took pity on her... and we had space for a new maid... *she looks evasive* (Morgan) You lied to me... * Mary nods, looking concerned (Mary) I am sorry (Morgan) I'm not (Mary) I thought if I told anyone she'd be sent off... if you'd seen the state she was in, Master Hockridge... (Morgan) I know... I wanted to thank you * Mary smiles (Mary) Oh! (Morgan) She helped me be the person I am, rather than the... person I was. We're married... that would not have happened were it not for you * Mary nods (Mary) I'm glad about that. You both seem much happier now * Morgan nods (Morgan) much (Mary) You both seemed like people who could be lonely even in a place with lots of people in it, like here * Morgan nods (Morgan) on the other side of that, I can start an argument in an empty room * Mary nods (Mary) Was there anything more, Master Hockridge? I need to get back to work, you know how it is * Morgan shakes his head (Morgan) I'll leave you to it * Mary curtsies briefly before going back to work * Morgan heads off towards the cottage (Mary) **Molly is working in the kitchen making Varick food, the rest of them in the parlour. She looks daydreamy, smiling to herself as she works* ** You're now known as Molly (Morgan) What makes you smile so? * Molly jumps, blushing (Molly) Oh! You, as always... (Morgan) ah, I see * Molly smiles at him (Molly) After all this time, it surprises you? * Morgan nods * Molly speaks quietly (Molly) Did you wish to know what it was? * Morgan nods * Molly sends him her thoughts. She's beneath him in the hayloft, though there's still skirts and trousers between them. She breaks off from kissing him passionately, staying close as they both breathe hard. She looks about to say something, but the thoughts are withdrawn** * Morgan blushes * Molly smiles, watching him before going back to her task (Molly) Are you sorry you asked, mon petit chou? (Morgan) No... just wasn't prepared for it... * Molly giggles (Molly) I'll bear that in mind next time (Morgan) I have discovered that Lady Torrington did not hire you * Molly turns to him with a smile (Molly) Odd, I distinctly remember scrubbing toilets and blackening grates for years * Morgan nods (Morgan) I spoke to Mary about it * Molly nods, once more working on the food (Molly) Oh? (Morgan) What did she tell you about being hired? (Molly) I am not sure... I was... somewhat out of sorts at the time (Morgan) She brought you to me, in a uniform, and told me you'd been hired... I assumed Lady Torrington had hired you, she assumed it was me... (Molly) I cannot say I ever considered it. I assumed _someone_ must have said I could stay? * Morgan shakes his head (Molly) What did Mary say? (Morgan) That she lied to me... * Molly looks surprised (Molly) On purpose? * Morgan nods (Molly) How strange... why did she do that? (Morgan) Because she couldn't bear to see you out on the streets, especially not feeling like you were * Molly nods slightly (Molly) Alright * Molly sets the child's food carefully on the table (Molly) I am sure I was perfectly wretched and pitiable for almost anyone to feel obligated to. (Morgan) Or... (Molly) Or? (Morgan) She was... nudged in that direction (Molly) You think they may have meddled? * Morgan nods (Morgan) Could well be (Molly) Would they though? The cast, and when Cecily died and I may have died too... but it being the right time and place with the right maid...? Would they have done it? * Molly next puts a glass of milk beside Varick's plate (Molly) I suppose I thought they meddled in big things, not little things? (Morgan) I think they meddle in ways to give us as many options as they could * Molly nods a little (Molly) I suppose that is necessary if I wander off the paths! * Morgan nods * Molly smiles (Molly) I'll try not to, as we are supposedly on the smoothest routes to it now * Morgan nods (Morgan) that would be appreciated... I think we've both had enough rough times * Molly nods "Quite." She then speaks quietly, watching him mischeviously "After all, it is not like you could have the convergence alone" (Morgan) I suppose I could have a conver... * Molly smiles (Molly) You certainly could (Molly) Would you please send Varick in, before my imagination gets me into all manner of trouble! * Morgan nods, standing and going to find Varick (Molly) **The boy happily goes for food. The adults are all quietly reading, though Elsie and James share a book that she holds and he turns the pages of. Inga is knitting beside a reading Heinzharold (Morgan) everyone alright? ** You are now disconnected