------------------------------ Logging started for 192.168.1.82:#7thsea on Friday, 14 January 2022 19:56:52 Greenwich Mean Time ------------------------------ ** You have joined #7thsea (Molly) **He can hear Molly singing before he gets to the door, but it takes him a moment to make out the lyrics, _his_ lyrics. HH glances through the kitchen window before nudging Morgan. (Molly) M: ...Sometimes I just hold you...Too caught up in me to see… (Molly) **She is wearing her simple Eisen white and green dress, hair mostly down, makeup light and girlish. She has Thomas wrapped in a shawl in her left arm, and is looking at him. Her other hand is on Varick's crown as the boy is knelt on a chair at the table kneading bread dough** ...I'm holding a fortune...that heaven has given to me… (Molly) **HH grins at Morgan** Makes me broody an' she's not even my wife! * Morgan nods (Morgan) that's because you, like Edward, are a big girl * Molly punches him pretty hard in the arm "I don't hit like a girl though" (Molly) HH* (Morgan) Claudia hits harder than you (Molly) I'll admit to that. Back to Sudlachenburg to see 'im next? **he looks through the window again** not seeing any breakfast (Morgan) Best we cook some then (Molly) **HH nods, going in. Varick and Molly both look pleased to see Morgan. Molly comes to kiss his cheek. She doesnt smell of roses, though the light perfume is still floral. It's the one she put on in Fischler when she was on the warpath to sweet-talk protection from the Eisenfurst and thought she would get it by looking innocent and vulnerable** (Molly) Good morning, my love (Molly) **HH gets started with making food** (Morgan) blossom... I'm surprised you remembered the lyrics so well from hearing it once * Molly watches him with a smile "Such beautiful words, how could I forget?" (Molly) HH: Sounded quite romantic (Morgan) thank you... * Molly smiles warmer. The baby stirs a little and she gently starts to rock him (Molly) **HH looks at Morgan** Pull the other one! * Morgan shrugs (Morgan) alright (Molly) He's very talented. (Molly) **HH snorts** Shoulda heard 'im at first! **She glances at Morgan with a look of mischief, referencing one of the dreams where she teaches him things** Bored and alone in his hammock, playing the guitar... (Morgan) Shut up (Molly) HH: Me, or yer wife? (Morgan) you * Molly smiles "He never tells me to shut up..." **she sends him the image of his hand over her mouth when they were intimate and she was getting loud** * Morgan blushes, looking away (Molly) **HH unwraps some bacon** (Molly) I would like to take a horse and ride to the village. Aside from visiting Sunnymeade when Elsie came with us I haven't left the estate for weeks! * Morgan nods (Morgan) I reckon that can be arranged (Molly) **Inga lets herself in, saying good morning and going to help HH** (Molly) **Molly says gently with the newborn** I want to see a few people, I need to find Elsie some dresses that fit. The procedure means she doesn't have to wait months for her body to return to normal, so all the things she had whilst increasing are going to be too big. (Molly) Sways* * Morgan nods, ruffling Varicks hair (Molly) **Inga looks at Molly** That would be nice, if you didn't have to wait so long to get your figure back (Molly) **Varick is focused on the bread making** * Molly tilts her head, then smiles a little "I hadn't really given it much thought" (Molly) Inga looks a little concerned: We'd like a big family, but I don't like what it will do to my stomach! (Molly) **HH comes to stand behind her, wrapping his arms around her waist** I'm going t' make sure you always know that yer body is more beautiful e'erytime you give me a babe, don't worry. * Morgan watches them, humming quietly * Molly watches them a moment, then sips her tea. Varick is still kneading the dough when he says "You have to play leapfrog but not be tall enough to get over. That's how you give someone a baby." * Molly and Inga glance at each other with amusement but it's HH struggling most with his composure (Molly) HH: That so? (Molly) V: *he sighs* _Everyone_ knows that Heinzharold. * Morgan closes his eyes a moment before opening them back up, looking at HeinzHarold * Molly and Inga do giggle a little then (Molly) **HH grins at Morgan** * Molly looks to Morgan (Molly) So I would like to go to see Mr Jameson ((the milliner)), to see John's sister, and then to take flowers to my families' graves. I might stop in to see how Reverend Paulson is also. May I take Valkyrie? * Morgan nods (Morgan) of course (Molly) HH: You can take Greta if y' want, she's easy (Molly) *Inga and Molly have to avoid making any eye contact at all at this, but Morgan can see it's amused them* (Morgan) You haven't heard? (Molly) **Varick looks up and grins at Morgan** (Molly) HH: heard what? * Morgan shrugs nonchalantly (Molly) V: She's not called Greta anymore (Molly) **HH frowns** Why not? (Molly) **Varick shrugs nonchalantly mimicking Morgan** (Molly) **HH looks at Inga with a flirty grin** Someone got a lil jealous again, did she? **Inga shakes her head. He looks to Morgan* if yours is Valkyrie, mine's gotta be something like Banshee or Siren? (Molly) **the others start laughing** (Morgan) Not... exactly (Molly) HH: Nymph? Succubus? * Molly whispers something to Inga which has them both laughing (Morgan) Would you like to tell him Varick? (Molly) V: *he looks proud* Buttercup. (Molly) **HH nods, smiling, then it finally dawns on him** Hang on, Buttercup?! He gets Valkyrie, and I get Buttercup?! (Molly) **Varick starts giggling** (Morgan) I'll point out I didn't choose either name * Molly looks to Morgan "What is Claudia's called?" * Morgan shrugs (Molly) **HH looks at Morgan, both of them knowing Claudia's horse is called Leni, after the first girl Claudia kissed, just like Greta was HHs first** (Morgan) something odd... (Molly) Odder than Buttercup? (Morgan) Buttercup's a good strong name... for a cow... (Molly) HH: Gonna stick, isn't it? (Morgan) The horse has accepted it as its name (Molly) **HH groans** Well, you can borrow Buttercup then, Molly * Molly smiles at Morgan "Do you think I am more like a woman who rides a horse called Valkyrie, or one who rides a horse called Buttercup, my love?" (Morgan) I'm not inclined to answer, given you refer to me as cabbage... (Molly) **this makes everyone laugh** (Molly) It is meant with the greatest affection, I assure you (Molly) [Do you wish to come to the village with me?] (Morgan) [If I won't be in the way] (Molly) [Of course you will not be] * Morgan nods, humming to himself again as he gets coffee (Molly) **Beth and Cecily join them, and HH is given the little girl to hold whilst James is sat with Elsie and Thomas. Varick alternates between looking at the sleeping babies and trying to help Molly, Inga, and Beth make breakfast. Molly informs them all of the plan, Varick is quite happy to stay with the babies. There's a knock at the door** * Morgan goes to answer it ** You're now known as Rosenkrantz * Rosenkrantz is stood on the doorstep. He looks relaxed and happy "Good morning, your Excellency" (Morgan) Doctor... you are well? (Rosenkrantz) I am, and you? * Morgan nods, moving out the way of the door (Rosenkrantz) **he comes in to lots of good mornings** I wanted to visit the patients and see how they are (Rosenkrantz) **Elsie, Molly and Rosenkrantz go into the parlour and shut the door so he can examine the healing of the incision, and he announces that he is very impressed with how Elsie is doing when he comes back in. Next he checks the baby, similarly happy. Then he looks to Morgan** (Rosenkrantz) I will be taking a coach down to the dock this afternoon, I must be back in Insel on the twenty fourth ready for our annual Fish Festival so I need to arrange my travel. If there are any errands I can do whilst I am down there, I would happily do so **It is presently the 18th** (Morgan) No, thank you (Rosenkrantz) V: What is a Fish Festival? **Rosenkrantz explains that it's a local custom where there are street celebrations, the boats are blessed for the year ahead, and people take time off work to enjoy their community. Varick looks excited** V: I would like to go to the Fish Festival, Papa! * Morgan nods slowly (Rosenkrantz) HH: Rosie told me about it. It's a bit like th' Shadowfayre (Morgan) We'll see... Since we need to go that way anyway it might be an idea, but I want to see Alice before we leave * Rosenkrantz smiles "You are all welcome to join us. The local taverns will be busy, but you are welcome to stay at my house, of course (Rosenkrantz) **Molly says nothing, drinking her tea** (Rosenkrantz) V: Please, Papa (Morgan) Providing Alice is back, it should be doable (Rosenkrantz) **Varick hugs him** (Rosenkrantz) It would save me quite some hassle in finding a ship. Few ships sail to Insel from this side of Avalon. (Morgan) certainly none as fast as the Rose... (Rosenkrantz) It certainly has a reputation for that * Morgan nods, looking at Molly (Morgan) Slight detour to speak to Sorgi? (Rosenkrantz) **Molly nods** If Inga and Heinzharold are happy to watch Varick for the day (Rosenkrantz) **Inga nods** Of course. Perhaps we might escort Beth home later on and Varick can see his cousins? (Rosenkrantz) **Molly smiles, looking at Morgan** does that sound well to you? * Morgan nods * Rosenkrantz looks at them all "I'll bid you good morning then" * Morgan nods, showing him out (Rosenkrantz) **farewells are given, and soon Molly is pulling on her cloak and kissing Varick farewell too** (Rosenkrantz) **HH comes to Morgan** Y' gonna see Claudia? * Morgan nods ** You're now known as Molly (Molly) **HH thumps his arm** Give her that for me **he grins** (Morgan) You're an idiot (Molly) **He laughs. Molly looks to Elsie* I'm going to get you a couple of dresses that fit. What colours would you like? (Molly) E: Oh! No, I'll alter the ones I have, it's no problem. * Morgan watches Elsie, obviously thinking about something * Molly shakes her head "I would save you the time. It will be nuisance altering all that fabric out" (Molly) **Elsie glances at Morgan a moment before looking back at Molly** I won't be pregnant again, so maybe you or Inga would like the current ones for when you're increasing? * Molly frowns ever so slightly "That's not a bad idea. Inga will probably use them long before I do, but I'm sure we can get plenty of use between us, thank you" **Inga is smiling at HH who smiles back at her** (Molly) E: Blue then, please **Molly nods, getting her bag** (Morgan) I'll just be a moment blossom... Elsie, a word in private if I may? * Molly nods "I'll meet you at the stable?" * Morgan nods * Molly goes and Elsie moves into the parlour ** You're now known as Elsie * Morgan looks at her, speaking quietly (Morgan) Something occurred to me... Since things didn't go as we expected, you will be raising Thomas... * Elsie smiles happily (Elsie) I will be (Morgan) I imagine at some point you'll get around to thinking about the financial side of that... * Elsie nods (Elsie) I can't go back to working where I was (Morgan) As part of the restitution, I arranged for some financial support to be provided to Peter and Beth until Thomas comes of age... I'll arrange for that to come to you. * Elsie frowns (Elsie) What about them? (Morgan) It was to provide for Thomas... they didn't want it, mind, but it was already dealt with by the time they agreed to have him * Elsie nods (Elsie) If I say I don't want charity are you going to argue about it until I take it? (Morgan) I'll say the same as I did to them... it isn't charity, its for Thomas. * Elsie nods (Elsie) Alright. If it helps me make a life for him, it's important * Morgan nods (Morgan) Three hundred guilders a year... Her Grace has said you can stay here as long as you need (Elsie) Three _hundred_?! * Morgan nods (Elsie) No, that's far too much. (Morgan) Put some in savings for Thomas... You were wronged, and so was Thomas. You both deserve this. * Elsie nods (Elsie) It just seems so much * Elsie sits down "I'd never need to go back to the brothel" (Morgan) No... thats assuming of course you wouldn't want to be with James (Elsie) I do want to be with him. I love him. * Morgan nods (Morgan) I'm glad to hear that. (Elsie) But I could just be a mother... I wouldn't need to work at all * Morgan nods (Morgan) I daresay James would have a lot to say about the idea of you working in a brothel again... * Elsie nods "He wouldn't want that for me, even if I could" (Morgan) No... I think he'd much rather you be a mother and he work.... (Elsie) We haven't really had chance to talk about the future yet * Morgan nods (Morgan) When he sail for Insel, you understand he'll be staying behind? He's asked for a few weeks leave (Elsie) I thought he might want to stay a little while at least (Morgan) You haven't realised how much he loves you have you? (Elsie) I know he does. But we were planning my funeral less than a day ago * Morgan nods (Morgan) I think it'll be good for the three of you to have some time just you... * Elsie smiles (Elsie) I'd like that. He loves Thomas too, even though Thomas is half made from that awful man. * Morgan nods (Morgan) Thomas is innocent of it all... (Elsie) He's the most perfect little thing. I can't believe I get to see him grow up (Morgan) I can't tell you how pleased I am about that. Anyway, I digress... I just wanted you to know you don't need to worry about that side of things (Elsie) Thank you. If I can ever do anything to repay you for all of this, please let me know * Morgan tilts his head (Morgan) Be happy. * Elsie smiles (Elsie) Always (Morgan) oh... one last thing... (Elsie) Yes? (Morgan) I made sure that Thomas is not... linked with Dau... no matter where you go, he won't be drawn into the politics of it all * Elsie nods (Elsie) Thank you, I appreciate it * Morgan nods, inclining his head (Morgan) I'll see you later * Elsie nods, smiling "Have a nice time..." * Morgan nods, smiling and leaving the room and house ** You are now disconnected (Connection timed out) ------------------------------ Logging started for 192.168.1.82:#7thsea on Saturday, 15 January 2022 19:00:38 Greenwich Mean Time ------------------------------ ** You have joined #7thsea * Molly is found in the stables, both horses ready. She looks distracted, pinching her lip. (Morgan) right then... ready? (Molly) Hmm? Oh, yes, sorry * Molly hands hims Valkyrie's reins * Morgan watches her (Morgan) Something on your mind? * Molly smiles "You need not be a mind reader to know what thoughts are occupying me here!" (Morgan) Because its a stable? * Molly nods, watching him (Molly) Precisely so * Morgan nods (Molly) You, my love, have rather changed stables for me forever! **she encourages Buttercup out of the stall** * Morgan nods (Morgan) I rather think that was your urging... * Morgan checks over the harness on Valkyrie (Molly) A twenty year old new bride could have no ideas of such things... * Morgan nods (Morgan) I suppose so * Molly smirks, getting one foot into the stirrup "Which means it must have been entirely your idea... perhaps from your navy day" (Molly) Days* * Morgan frowns (Morgan) No, that'd have been a crows nest I reckon * Molly swings up confidently, wearing snug fitting trousers beneath her dress so she can ride astride * Morgan hauls himself into the saddle (Molly) Noone could manage that in the crow's nest! *she tilts her head* Could they? (Morgan) It wouldn't surprise me * Molly glances at him with mischief "I should imagine one could achieve such a conclusion alone up there?" (Morgan) I would imagine so * Molly raises her eyebrows as if she will ask something, giving a beat of anticipation, then smirks as she makes the horse walk on * Morgan nudges the horse to a walk (Molly) **The ride to the village takes them down past the school house and Catherine's chapel. Molly seems cheerful and at ease** (Molly) Was Elsie alright? * Morgan nods (Morgan) aye (Molly) I am glad. She can put it all behind her now. **she watches over the valley** We all can. * Morgan nods (Morgan) aye (Molly) Will they marry, do you think? (Morgan) Tough to say. They love eachother very much, but I think Elsie assumed he'd be moving on after she died so... * Molly nods "I suppose the intensity of the situation could lead to strong feelings that may not last once things settle?" * Morgan nods (Morgan) I hope that is not the case (Molly) It concerns you? (Morgan) Somewhat, aye * Molly nods (Molly) We will only wait and see, I suppose. Perhaps that is one of the dangers of feelings developing very fast? * Morgan nods (Morgan) so I understand * Molly nods (Molly) I would like to see them happy. They deserve to be * Morgan nods (Morgan) I've told her about the money that will come to her... I didn't want her thinking she had to return to the brothel once we leave * Molly frowns "Absolutely she should not have to. It is not a place any woman should have to be" (Morgan) The money she will be getting realistically means she won't have to work at all * Molly nods (Molly) Good. After the pain she had to endure, it is right that she can have a better life * Morgan nods (Molly) I should think after we return from Capperlucia she should be healed enough for me to work on the final restoration of function (Morgan) I haven't mentioned that to either of them... * Molly nods (Molly) I would want neither to feel rushed * Morgan nods (Morgan) indeed (Molly) She may have some flashbacks and things, and that can be challenging * Morgan nods (Morgan) aye (Molly) Do you think they will stay in Avalon? (Morgan) I have no idea... I don't see she has any reason to leave, and he will go where she wishes to be I think (Molly) That's sweet, isn't it? * Morgan nods (Molly) But then, that is not different than I feel for you. I followed you to Sudlachenburg, and I will follow you to Gottkirchen, or wherever else you wish to take me * Morgan nods (Morgan) I don't move around on a whim... (Molly) It would not matter. I trust you. * Morgan nods (Molly) Does it trouble you, leaving Varick for the day? * Morgan shrugs (Morgan) Some (Molly) He will appreciate time at Sunnymeade. And we will need to leave in a few days... * Morgan nods (Morgan) Someone in Tawstock may well know if the Blessing has gone by... * Molly nods (Molly) Rousseau and the others were to be checking on the animals, they may have seen Alice. But we should not delay overmuch if we are to be in Insel soon. **her expression becomes a little neutral** (Morgan) Which part of that bothers you? * Molly sighs (Molly) Insel. It seems that fate is taking us there. * Morgan nods (Morgan) I have no solid reason for not taking Varick there... (Molly) No, and after everything Doctor Rosenkrantz has done for me and for Elsie it would be rude. * Morgan nods (Molly) We can make the visit short due to Edward waiting for us * Morgan nods (Morgan) aye (Molly) You would prefer that also? * Morgan nods (Morgan) yes, I would * Molly nods (Molly) I think perhaps the day after tomorrow to leave? * Morgan nods (Morgan) it would get us there in time, aye * Molly nods (Molly) I will start packing this evening then (Molly) **At Mr Jameson's she is given as much respect and assistance as he has seen Catherine be given. She soon has a pile of things ready to be sent up, including an outfit for Varick. She has pays him without paying real attention to the cost. (Molly) **It is all so far away from the nervous maid who came here with him the first time she'd ventured from the estate into the village almost two years ago (Molly) **Outside she looks around a moment** (Molly) Who was the dark-haired woman? (Morgan) hmmm? (Molly) The first time we came here, you went off to speak to a dark-haired woman I didn't know. * Morgan nods slightly (Morgan) I knew her during the war... I asked her to _discreetly_ check on my mother and father... she also brought me some blokners (Molly) She was pretty... I wondered at the time if she might be a former mistress * Morgan shakes his head (Morgan) No... I have been intimate with two women in my life.... * Molly blushes (Molly) Oh I know that now, of course. * Morgan nods * Molly mounts back up, riding side-saddle now * Morgan pulls himself up onto the horse (Molly) Evie was quite jealous, you were still… involved then. * Morgan nods * Molly rides on, mulling something over * Morgan waits quietly (Molly) *she glances at him* I was wondering what causes my curiosity about what happened between you and Evie (Morgan) _happened_? * Molly is leading them across the village to the outskirts (Molly) Why you kissed her, whether it was anything like kissing me, and so on (Morgan) It felt like we'd progressed to that point... and no, its nothing like kissing you * Molly nods "Did you feel remorseful?" * Morgan shrugs (Morgan) it felt... hollow. * Molly nods (Molly) Because she wasn't what you wanted? * Morgan nods * Molly nods "Is that what you worry will happen to John? He will rush into kissing someone else when it is Eliza he wants to be kissing instead?" * Morgan nods (Morgan) Particularly with you because there were feelings already there for him (Molly) That would make it worse? (Morgan) More likely, I think * Molly nods (Molly) Might more have happened with Evie had she not wanted marriage? **The shops are becoming just housing** (Morgan) I doubt it... want to know when I realised it wasn't the right time or the right person? * Molly nods, smiling "I always want to know things about you. You continue to fascinate me" (Morgan) Do you recall she burst into the kitchen to find the cook and I... sparring with pans... (Molly) It was the night before we went to Carleon... I had just burnt my hand learning to use the Jaeger crest * Morgan nods (Morgan) she rushed in... and rebuked me... don't call me if you get injured... she didn't accept me, she accepted what she wanted me to become... * Molly nods thoughtfully (Molly) What _did_ she want you to become? (Morgan) Compliant maybe... it felt she wanted to dictate how I should be... it was in that moment I realised she and I were not right for eachother * Molly nods "I had assumed it was over long before that... but sometimes it takes a while to get clarity even after the end of something" (Morgan) that was the moment I decided to distance myself from her * Molly nods (Molly) I was rather busy fending off Curtis's innuendos to have really helped you! * Morgan nods (Molly) He thought I was blushing at the idea of consummating my marriage to him. (Morgan) you weren't? * Molly leads them down a small side street, obviously very familiar with where they are going (Molly) Absolutely not. I was blushing but not for that. (Morgan) whys? (Molly) I was thinking about how it would be to marry for love, how special it would be to be to feel love in return and not just obligation * Morgan nods (Molly) What changed for you, in the week between that night and kissing me? Surely it must have seemed like another potential disaster? * Morgan nods (Morgan) it did... but it became apparent that my... swimming for the surface was largely down to you... accepting me as I was.... wanting me to be better to myself for no-one but myself... * Molly nods (Molly) That was all I sought from you * Morgan nods (Morgan) I know (Molly) I am glad it was not a disaster... I hope it did not feel hollow. (Morgan) Not even slightly.... scary, unnerving... vulnerable, yes... but not hollow * Molly glances at him (Molly) I had no idea... (Morgan) no? * Molly shakes her head (Molly) I had convinced myself after you had gone to bed that you had felt very guilty, regretful, and disappointed in my lack of skill and experience (Morgan) I did feel guilty... it took a long long time for that to no longer be the case * Molly nods (Molly) I hope that is no longer the case now (Morgan) No, it isn't * Molly nods "I'm glad. It was... difficult, that next day. I was torn between what I wanted, and what I thought I ought to do" (Morgan) apologise and not speak to me anymore? (Molly) That was not what I wanted! (Morgan) I figured... (Morgan) I wondered if thats what you thought you ought to do (Molly) I thought I ought to apologise, and keep things more professional... but I couldn't manage it. I yearned even just to be in your presence. * Morgan nods slightly (Molly) I think if I had managed that things would have been different. I cannot imagine you would have ever mentioned it again had I pulled away from your presence the next morning (Morgan) No, probably not * Molly smiles "Then I would have married Curtis, and the memory of kissing me and seeing me undressed would soon have been forgotten, my love" **she slows Buttercup by a nice looking house** (Morgan) No, I think not (Molly) No? *she stops the horse* (Morgan) No. (Molly) Perhaps it would have helped you when you were more ready to find someone else, like a stepping stone along the path of your healing? **she dismounts** (Morgan) I doubt it (Molly) **She ties up the horse** I am pleased I'd have remained in your mind at least * Morgan nods, getting down and tying the horse up * Molly goes to the door of John's sisters house, and knocks on the door. Then she looks to Morgan "That reminds me. I am going to swim in Catherine's pool before we leave" (Morgan) You realise it is cold... * Molly nods "I know" * Morgan nods (Morgan) alright (Molly) **The door opens, and a servant shows them in to the hall where they are asked to wait** ** You are now disconnected ------------------------------ Logging started for 192.168.1.82:#7thsea on Sunday, 16 January 2022 18:15:21 Greenwich Mean Time ------------------------------ ** You have joined #7thsea (Molly) **The house of John's sister is quite nice, her husband must be a gentleman. Janie seems pleased to see Molly, and tea and biscuits are served by a maid. The two women chat about how they are, how Elsie is before they talk about how John is doing, and it reminds Morgan that, if not for Molly's illness, they would have been sister-in-laws. (Molly) J: I wonder if you would visit him and Kathleen before you leave? He misses you. (Molly) [Should I?] (Morgan) [Maybe take Inga with you?] * Molly smiles at the woman "I will go tomorrow" **his sister seems relieved** (Molly) **They move on to other village gossip, and Morgan's mind wanders to the conversation they were having about him kissing her in Carleon and the dream he had whilst away where she'd asked him what he was doing when he kissed her and they'd talked about how they desired each other and desired to do more than kiss but it wouldn't be right to. He's still thinking about it when Molly makes their excuses to leave. * Molly says goodbye and is soon mounting up outside (Molly) Should we go to The Rose now, and then the church on the way back, or would you prefer to do the Rose last? (Morgan) Whichevers easiest (Molly) They are equally easy (Morgan) Church next then * Molly nods heading towards a florist on the way (Molly) If it eases your mind, you didn't seem scared, unnerved or vulnerable when you kissed me at all (Morgan) no? * Molly shakes her head "You seemed confident and at ease, experienced (Morgan) surprising (Molly) It is? * Morgan nods (Molly) It was similar that night at Die Dauerhaftigkeit in the nursery when I first used my hand on you *she glances at him, smiling. There's noone around, and even if they were she is speaking Eisen** (Morgan) oh? (Molly) You seemed at ease with my doing so, at least until it was over. * Morgan nods (Molly) Inga says arousal makes me bold, and then after they are spent they become more unsure of themselves and vulnerable (Molly) Men* * Morgan nods (Morgan) Inga is correct (Molly) She says Heinzharold said that is why smart men do not dally with the followers of the drum the night before the battle, and instead wait until after it is over to spend themselves **she talks about this very nonchalantly, but he can feel her gaze move to his profile frequently** * Morgan shrugs (Morgan) He'd know more about that (Molly) Oh I know he would *she giggles** Inga has told me so (Morgan) Talk about that sort of thing a lot, don't you (Molly) **she nods** It's a very useful thing to know, it explains why men would wish to sleep or rest after, to avoid difficult conversations or conflicts. * Morgan nods (Morgan) makes sense * Molly watches him sidelong (Molly) Does it trouble you that we discuss such things? (Morgan) No, I suppose not (Molly) I do not tell her anything about you, other than that you are a wonderful lover and beautifully made by your creator in that area **She keeps her gaze dead ahead, keeping a straight face** * Morgan nods slightly (Morgan) mmmhmmm * Molly glances at him with a sweet smile "And I tell her that your skill with your tongue is enough to make the heavens rejoice" (Morgan) oh? * Molly makes a noise of frustration, but smiles (Molly) I was trying to make you blush, my love (Morgan) I'm a spoilsport... * Molly nods, smiling (Molly) Now that I may have told her! (Morgan) Fairly sure everyone knows that (Molly) Oh, I meant that I told her you're very difficult to seduce (Morgan) oh... am I? * Molly looks puzzled (Molly) You do not realise this? (Morgan) No, not really * Molly smiles a little (Molly) That rather makes me wonder how many camp followers you might have just been oblivious to! * Morgan shrugs (Morgan) I doubt there were any (Molly) They were all very unlucky to miss out on your talents! * Morgan shrugs (Molly) **They get back to the stalls where she dismounts to buy three bunches of flowers. She takes them once she is up, moving towards the church** (Molly) Heinzharold told me about the flowers you bought from the young boy when you got to Greenwich (Morgan) oh? (Molly) He said you were generous, and wanted the boy to ensure his friends were fed * Morgan nods (Molly) It makes me very proud to be your wife. * Morgan blushes * Molly smiles (Molly) I love that about you, that you care about children who can't eat, and towns over taxed, and hurt girls in brothels, and everyone (Morgan) its... the right thing to do, thats all (Molly) It is, but most people do not do it. (Morgan) sadly (Molly) You do, and I adore that. (Morgan) That means much to me (Molly) Why? (Morgan) Your opinion of me matters greatly * Molly smiles (Molly) I have never admired nor esteemed another person than I have you, my love * Morgan blushes (Molly) You are a good man. You are an excellent Freiarr, and you will be the sort of Graf that many generations to come talk about with respect and admiration. (Morgan) I hope so... (Molly) I know so. (Molly) And they will say "wasn't he the one with the Avalon-born wife?" And everyone will say "Oh yes, he really loved her, didn't he?" *she smiles* * Morgan nods (Molly) And that will explain how many of the noble families in a hundred years time have the occasional child with dark red hair * Morgan nods (Morgan) aye * Molly smiles, looking at the flowers (Molly) He told me about the forget-me-nots (Morgan) what about them? (Molly) That one of the bunches you bought was forget-me-nots, and you looped it on your saddle to keep * Morgan nods (Morgan) aye * Molly smiles, watching him (Molly) I like that (Morgan) why? (Molly) Because you thought of me (Morgan) Always * Molly blushes (Molly) And because you wanted to keep them, as if it was a symbol to the world of your love for me, even if the world was unaware of the meaning * Morgan nods (Molly) I like that you thought of me a few times each day * Morgan nods (Molly) I, my love, barely had two thoughts to rub together that weren't of you! ** You are now disconnected ------------------------------ Logging started for 192.168.1.82:#7thsea on Sunday, 16 January 2022 20:03:34 Greenwich Mean Time ------------------------------ ** You have joined #7thsea (Molly) [19:56] (Molly) I, my love, barely had two thoughts to rub together that weren't of you! (Morgan) even as busy as you were? * Molly nods (Molly) Absolutely (Morgan) that surprises me (Molly) You do not realise how constantly and relentlessly you are in my mind, even when I try to focus myself? * Morgan shakes his head * Molly smiles "Well, you are. You are my first thought each morning, my last thought each night, and almost every one inbetween" * Morgan nods (Molly) **At the graveyard she ties up the horse again, carrying the flowers through to the bit they went to before. She lays the flowers on the children's graves first, then moves on to that of her grandfather and step-grandmother. She's quiet a moment** My father chose for his father to be buried here with his second wife... (Morgan) He had stronger connections with her (Molly) **She shakes her head** George hadn't left any instructions, but from what Beth says, he would have been better at Alrington with his first wife Sophie, I think * Morgan nods * Molly glances at Morgan "You meant my father, not George." * Morgan nods * Molly pulls her cloak around her tighter "I have done a little investigating whilst we have been here. George and Margaret's relationship was very chaotic and at times downright unpleasant, I am told" (Morgan) so Beth tells me (Molly) I think what George and Sophie had was deeper than just body and heart, it was almost spiritual too. Sophie was the sort of woman that inspired his soul. She was his muse too, though it seems that he either destroyed almost all the paintings of her, or my father did. * Morgan nods (Morgan) so I'm given to understand... there are a couple in the loft though (Molly) She was very beautiful * Morgan nods (Morgan) aye (Molly) She was also very unsettled. It seems to have been cyclical too, at the full moon she would walk the foreshore at night. It's how she drowned. * Morgan frowns (Morgan) odd * Molly glances at him "There had been a shipwreck there years before, at full moon when the lookouts should have had enough light to see the out cropping. She'd gone out with her dog and a lantern to look for survivors or bodies whilst her father went inland to raise the alarm" (Morgan) I see (Molly) The ship was destroyed, noone survived. She had single-handedly dragged ten men above the tide line by the time help came, all dead. (Morgan) tenacious (Molly) **she nods, taking his hand** She was younger than I am now, fourteen I think. The thought of that, the horror of those poor broken bodies, the weight and the hopelessness... then after that, the full moon wandering started. * Morgan nods (Morgan) makes a certain amount of sense really * Molly frowns "But one would think, in a cove you'd been born in, when you had seen the tide every day, and walked in the full moon every time for years, it would be hard to make a fatal error, surely?" * Morgan shrugs (Morgan) unlikely but not unheard of * Molly nods (Molly) I suppose so. George didn't stay long with my father before moving him to Sunnymeade with my great grandparents, an essential with his alcohol consumption. Then he married and had six more children. His drinking only got worse, as did his behaviour * Morgan nods (Morgan) grief affects us differently * Molly nods (Molly) It is just a shame he was unable to treat her better * Morgan nods (Morgan) aye, it is (Molly) I wonder if that was some of why they were so troubled by me when Cess died, because I was behaving as oddly as Sophie had. (Morgan) That would make sense * Molly nods (Molly) Perhaps that is also why my family lacked so much compassion for me whilst I was ill too. I was a problem, just as Sophie's illness had made her a problem, and my grandfather's drinking had made him a problem. (Morgan) Could be, aye (Molly) I feel for Margaret. Even giving him six children and then dying for the last, bearing his treatment of her, it was not enough. * Morgan nods (Molly) Her children loved her, and she was faithful and loyal. By all accounts she was a good woman. * Molly glances around the graveyard before looking up to him "Shall we go to see Reverend Paulson now before going on to Tawstock" * Morgan NODS (Morgan) If that is what you wish to do blossom * Molly walks towards the horses, hand in his still (Molly) You must find all this tedious... * Morgan shrugs (Morgan) not really (Molly) Family dramas are rarely interesting when it is someone else's family (Morgan) I'm not chasing some great revelation, or trying to fix an injustice... its... nice. * Molly smiles (Molly) Even though it is so sad? * Morgan shrugs (Morgan) I suppose so (Molly) You do not find it sad? ** You are now disconnected ------------------------------ Logging started for 192.168.1.82:#7thsea on Sunday, 16 January 2022 21:22:11 Greenwich Mean Time ------------------------------ ** You have joined #7thsea (Molly) [20:59] (Molly) You do not find it sad? ** You are now disconnected ------------------------------ Logging started for 192.168.1.82:#7thsea on Monday, 17 January 2022 13:16:59 Greenwich Mean Time ------------------------------ ** You have joined #7thsea (Morgan) Family dramas are rarely interesting when it is someone else's family (Morgan) I'm not chasing some great revelation, or trying to fix an injustice... its... nice. (Morgan) * Molly smiles (Morgan) Even though it is so sad? (Morgan) * Morgan shrugs (Morgan) I suppose so (Morgan) You do not find it sad? (Morgan) There are a great many sad things in the world... Nothing I do right now can change any of them, so I'lll just take my comfort of being here with you * Molly smiles fondly at him (Molly) That is a consolation? * Morgan nods (Molly) That's nice to hear, my love (Morgan) why? (Molly) It is nice to think I make you feel better about the world and its woes * Morgan nods (Molly) Do you feel much better now Elsie is well and that the danger of me being headstrong has passed? * Morgan nods (Morgan) no end * Molly smiles (Molly) Me also. I did not realise how burdened I have been, how it has tortured me so * Morgan nods (Molly) We have a few days before the next trouble comes, I hope * Morgan nods (Morgan) I hope so (Molly) Me too. It's probably as easy to walk to the rectory than take the horses * Morgan nods (Morgan) a walk it is then * Molly holds his hand, smiling (Molly) I like this * Morgan nods (Morgan) I think... you're going to like what Claudia has done to our rooms on the Rose (Molly) Oh? I am looking forward to seeing the ship again, it's been almost six weeks * Morgan nods (Morgan) A great deal of thought went into it * Molly smiles "I will enjoy seeing it. Perhaps not quite as much as being able to hold your hand here proudly without having to hide my feelings so much" * Morgan nods (Molly) **The rectory is quite a handsome building, but small. Inside a housekeeper shows them to a sunny drawing room where the reverend is writing at a desk. He is very chatty and gets them set up with tea and cake whilst he and Molly reminisce. The topic moves to Elsie after Molly tells him about the safe arrival (Molly) RP: the congregation have been praying for the baby, Elsie, and Theus' forgiveness of her sins. * Morgan raises an eyebrow, watching the reverend * Molly sips the tea slowly before responding "I am sure the prayers are welcome, but I think people are far too rushed to assign sin to young women who have no choice but to turn to such methods to survive whilst others are rich enough to help them but do not" (Molly) RP: *he looks patient* Only within marriage is such a thing approved by our Lord (Morgan) And where does the abandonment of the needy feature in his moral guidance? (Molly) RP: Well, no, it doesn't. Charity is a virtue * Morgan sips his tea (Molly) RP: The commandment states Thou Shalt Not Commit Adultery, and includes Fornication, which those women are engaging in. It is right that we pray for them. (Morgan) And when they have no choice? When they are left to starve by the faithful congregation, they who stand in judgement which, as I recall, is the remit of Theus alone... (Molly) RP: well, yes, that is a good point... (Molly) Do we pray for the souls of our armymen also? The commandment says Thou Shalt Not Kill too, does it not? No, for we hold them high with national respect and gratitude for it. (Molly) RP: That is also a good point. Perhaps something could be done for those women who want to change their ways... * Morgan sips his tea, watching the priest again (Molly) Perhaps Lady Torrington would be interested in such a charitable undertaking (Molly) RP: I will pay a call next week * Morgan nods slightly * Molly nods "We will have left for home again by then, we are needed in Eisen" **This leads them briefly on to discussing her new life before he says** (Molly) Rev: I wanted to talk to you about your family burial plots in the church yard. * Molly nods "I might not have many answers I am afraid" (Molly) Rev: Your Father has paid for several around the graves of your siblings and his parents, but with him leaving Avalon I wondered how many he will want to retain, especially the double depth plot for he and Martha. * Molly looks to Morgan with a shrug "I don't know " (Morgan) I can't say I do either * Molly shrugs "I will ask him to write to you, but I do not know what his intentions are. Though I will not be needing one, I hope to be buried in Eisen near my husband" (Molly) Rev: *he looks surprised* That is a long way from home * Molly looks at Morgan affectionately "No, I'll be very close to home" * Morgan smiles slightly, looking at the priest (Molly) **The Reverend asks her to play a particular tune on the piano. Morgan knows this is where she taught herself to play, allowed to use the piano a few hours a week in return for doing their washing. The instrument in the corner is a far cry from the ones he has seen her play in Die Dauerhaftigkeit, the Eisenfurst's music room, or the one in the manor house on his island** * Molly gets up, going to it. She sits and plays the piece from memory. It's only a church hymn, but it's pretty and sweet. Knowing how well she can play, he knows it's no challenge at all. She sings it whilst playing, and the priest looks impressed, speaking to Morgan** This was my late wife's favourite * Morgan nods (Morgan) Difficult to hear in the beginning, isn't it (Molly) RP: We had a long happy life together, and I will see her again. I can get enjoyment from my memories of how happy it made her * Morgan nods * Molly finishes up, and he thanks her "I do not remember hearing you sing before" *Molly shakes her head* I didn't used to sing unless I was in church with all the other voices. (Molly) RP: a sad waste of such a talent * Molly shrugs "Perhaps that came from my grandmother Sophie too?" **he shakes his head** No, definitely not, nor from either of your parents I'm afraid * Morgan sips his tea (Molly) **The conversation is interrupted by another visitor to the rectory, and with farewells Molly and Morgan walk back towards the horses. She smiles at him** (Molly) Perhaps I am one of those changeling children like in children's stories... (Morgan) Lets be honest, that wouldn't be the strangest thing thats happened to us * Molly giggles (Molly) We are rather odd, arent we? * Morgan nods (Molly) I hope I did not upset you back there (Morgan) With what? (Molly) About praying for those in the army (Morgan) Why would it? (Molly) Having been in the navy. I don't believe the necessities of War counts the same as murder, but I wanted him to see the hypocrisy * Morgan nods (Morgan) I thought you meant that we should pray for those in the army because we should pray for those less fortunate than ourselves... (Molly) Certainly it is unfortunate for men to have to be in any war, and I can't help but feel for them so far from home and in so much danger (Morgan) I was more thinking those unfortunate enough to end up in the army instead of the proper military... * Molly giggles (Molly) Those men whose uniform is far less appealing to women... (Morgan) I hadn't considered that * Molly nods (Molly) I'm not sure why any woman should chose an army man over a big strong sailor used to binding things with rope * Morgan blushes (Morgan) Where next? * Molly glances, giggling "The Rose now" * Morgan nods * Molly mounts up. They get stopped several times on the way for gossip and greetings, everyone seems to have entirely forgotten the days when they whispered about how Molly Forrester had been cast out for loose morals or called her a whore** (Morgan) Funny how things change, isn't it (Molly) Hmm? (Morgan) All these people... how they used to behave towards you (Molly) I try not to dwell on it. It was unpleasant and painful, but it led me to you, so it was worth it. * Morgan nods (Molly) **Market day sees the Tawstock dock busy, and finding someone to watch the horses is quite easy. Behind the stalls, they find both The Rose and the Ketch. * Molly looks up the ship "I would say seeing her in Carleon last year was the first time I felt love at first sight" (Morgan) oh? * Molly smiles "I thought she was the most beautiful thing I'd ever seen" (Morgan) Because she represented your freedom? * Molly thinks about this (Molly) I suppose she represented that I finally could _choose_ for myself * Morgan nods * Molly walks up the gangplank, touching the horseshoe * Morgan follows her doing the same * Molly crouches down as usual on the deck, palm flat to the surface and quietly talks to the ship. Sorgi and Claudia are stood nearby. She gestures $what is she doing?$** (Morgan) $Reconnecting with the Rose$ (Molly) **Claudia just shrugs. Sorgi comes over and bows to Morgan** S: what can we do for you, m'lord? * Molly stands, brushing off her dress (Morgan) Do you know if Alice has made it back to the island yet? (Molly) S: *he nods* Rousseau saw them moor yesterday afternoon * Morgan nods (Morgan) good, I'd like to see her before we leave (Molly) S: When do you want to go, m'lord? (Morgan) Need to discuss that with Molly... no point planning to do it if they aren't there, see... All is well? (Molly) S: It is, but if we are leaving for Freiburg soon we should get more provisions loaded and run through the regular procedures * Morgan nods (Morgan) couple of days, headed for Insel (Molly) **Sorgi nods** Very good, m'lord * Molly gently touches Morgan's arm "I am going to make some tea, liebling" (Morgan) I'll take you down to the study (Molly) S: Cook will be starting lunch soon, are you staying? * Morgan nods (Morgan) aye, we'll stop for a while * Molly nods "I have a few things I'd like to do before we go back anyway" (Molly) **Sorgi inclines his head. Claudia is watching them but she is also checking over some rope** (Morgan) Just a moment blossom... * Molly nods, telling Sorgi about the new baby * Morgan wanders over to Claudia ** You're now known as Claudia (Claudia) Alright? (Morgan) Aye, you? * Claudia shrugs "Mostly. Glad it went well with Elsie" * Morgan nods (Morgan) me too... you've something on your mind... (Claudia) A few rough nights. I'm good. (Morgan) Need to talk to me about it? (Claudia) I have a theory about it (Morgan) oh? (Claudia) The more I reveal to Sorgi, the more I confront it all, the more my mind pushes back with nightmares and flashbacks * Morgan nods (Morgan) that makes a lot of sense (Claudia) How are yours? (Morgan) Not far from the same... * Claudia nods (Claudia) At least it's done with Elsie * Morgan nods (Morgan) Was a tense few days * Claudia nods (Claudia) James staying? (Morgan) for now, aye... * Claudia nods "What's in Insel?" (Morgan) You remember HeinzHarold talking about a Rosie, sailed with him on the Nautilus? * Claudia nods "I vaguely remember him from when our units were together that first time. They had some friends who died..." *she watches him* * Morgan nods (Morgan) He died in the explosion... least thats what everyone thought... he's alive and in Insel * Claudia nods "Alright" (Morgan) Doctor Rosenkrantz is his father... * Claudia nods "staying long?" (Morgan) in Insel? Not if I can help it * Claudia laughs (Claudia) How come? (Morgan) Got things to do * Claudia nods "Heinzharold alright?" * Morgan nods (Morgan) you should've seen him when he had that baby in his arms at the birth (Claudia) Why? (Morgan) He was... awed... (Claudia) As if thousands aren't born every day * Morgan shrugs (Morgan) you romantic soul... * Claudia snorts (Claudia) Your wife is waiting for you * Morgan nods, nudging Claudia before wandering back to Molly ** You're now known as Molly (Molly) Are you ready to go below? (Morgan) I am blossom * Molly leads the way to the galley to start making the tea, and he spots the box of the Iron Goddess Of Mercy tea his uncle had grown (Morgan) Shall we have some of my uncles tea? * Molly nods (Molly) That sounds like a nice plan **she gets them a tray and soon they're on their way to the study. She has the tray** (Morgan) I think perhaps... I should take that * Molly hands it over, and opens the door. Immediately the room smells of Florrie's lavender on the desk alongside the rosenation and the pink, purple and blue forget-me-nots (Molly) **Molly gasps, seeing the window seat he and Heinzharold made, then Claudia turned her remaining female intuition to decorating with a fabric with purple roses. She looks at Morgan with so much excitement and happiness** Oh my goodness, liebling, this is perfect!! * Morgan nods * Molly shuts the door behind him and goes over to it, carefully setting the matching cup and saucer on the floor before kneeling on it to look out of the window. This confirms that the estimate of its height was accurate for allowing certain marital intricacies to occur in this position with her facing the window** I can see so well from here! * Morgan nods (Morgan) took some building * Molly nods (Molly) You have done a wonderful job, as have Heinzharold and Claudia (Morgan) Someones been watering the flowers * Molly pulls off her boots, getting settled on it with a cushion resting behind her. There's enough space for him to sit too (Molly) Oh, they are pretty! * Morgan nods, sitting down (Molly) Should I pour the tea? (Morgan) if you're planning to drink some, probably * Molly smiles, an eyebrow raising (Molly) Unless you had other ideas, my love (Morgan) Not for now, no * Molly pours the tea, using her matching cup, and gets comfortable again. She seems relaxed here (Molly) Are you looking forward to be sailing again soon? * Morgan nods (Morgan) I am * Molly nods (Molly) I have missed it (Morgan) oh? (Molly) The breeze, the rhythmic movement * Morgan nods (Molly) What have you missed? (Morgan) I'm more at ease at sea (Molly) You will miss it badly when we settle? (Morgan) Probably, if what my father says about me holds true * Molly sips her tea "This is very nice! What does he say?" (Morgan) That getting me off a ship has been nigh on impossible since I was small... * Molly smiles (Molly) But the lure of finally being a Graf, and whilst your father is still alive... * Morgan nods (Molly) I will find a way to let you put to sea frequently, though I will miss you (Morgan) We'll see what happens * Molly nods (Molly) I brought my dream recollections to add to the file * Morgan nods (Morgan) good idea (Molly) I should imagine there are many interesting ones in there from whilst you were away * Morgan shrugs (Morgan) I wouldn't think so (Molly) The ones with the Star Girl intrigue me (Morgan) why? (Molly) An alternate path, whether I worked for the order or someone else, what happened in the end * Molly sips the tea (Morgan) I see (Molly) You disapprove... (Morgan) No... (Molly) But...? * Morgan shrugs (Morgan) I just don't see it will be useful (Molly) You are concerned it will upset me or make me feel jealous? * Morgan nods * Molly smiles "I don't think it would. It was just us, had things been different... *she frowns a little* does it trouble _you_? * Morgan shrugs (Morgan) sometimes (Molly) Because you feel disloyal to me? * Morgan shrugs (Morgan) I suppose so * Molly tilts her head (Molly) I hadn't seen it that way at all * Morgan nods slightly (Molly) Do you feel I am disloyal when I dream similarly, of other versions of us on other paths? (Morgan) No, I don't (Molly) Good. Does it trouble you in that thread that I took your virginity? (Morgan) Some * Molly nods (Molly) That is understandable. It makes you feel disloyal to Dietlinde? * Morgan nods (Morgan) aye * Molly takes his hand (Molly) I can appreciate that would pain you. But you were not disloyal, it was just a dream * Morgan nods (Molly) I remind myself of similar when I dream of Seb. I have done nothing purposefully that is disloyal to you, and the path that led me there is not the path that led me to you * Morgan nods (Molly) When we see the Nieblungen, should we see if they can stop these dreams? (Morgan) No.... I think there is still value in them (Molly) Do you? I see no benefit in my dreaming of kissing Seb or fishing with him. (Morgan) No... but my being asked to investigate D Eckname....or, Deckname as HeinzHarold puts it, suggests there's more to learn from them (Molly) I suppose so... but I worry how far it will go (Morgan) in what respect? (Molly) I don't want to dream of going to bed with him * Molly watches his expression as she frowns and chews nervously on her lip * Morgan nods slowly (Morgan) Perhaps the dreams will change since the revelation of his identity has been made (Molly) I hope so... I would not feel at all good about that * Morgan nods (Molly) But I think even normal people dream such things on occassion * Morgan nods (Morgan) so I understand * Molly brings his knuckles to her mouth "I can only hope you know that it is you I have chosen and would always choose?" * Morgan nods * Molly kisses them (Molly) I am glad that you feel it. I have obviously done something right to have you feeling that way * Morgan nods * Molly watches him "are you alright?" * Morgan nods * Molly sips her tea "perhaps I am talking too much when you wished for quiet" (Morgan) It is not something I like to ponder (Molly) My dreaming that, or you losing your virginity to a version of me? (Morgan) you dreaming it... * Molly nods (Molly) If it ever happens, would you prefer not to know? (Morgan) We do not hide things from eachother * Molly nods (Molly) Alright. It is alright if you feel a need to go up in the crows nest or to wander around and check things, my love. (Morgan) I might have a walk around * Molly lets go of his hand (Molly) I will still be here when you are done * Morgan nods, leaning to kiss her cheek (Molly) Liebes herz? The insistence that we do not hide things...? (Morgan) alright blossom's? (Morgan) yes? (Molly) Has that always been a rule for you in relationships, or is that new because I do it and it displeases you so much? **He hadn't told Dietlinde about the Schattenmann, and she hadn't told his she'd suspected she was pregnant, but it's your call** * Morgan sighs (Morgan) You hide things from me while demanding I do not... * Molly nods (Molly) I am trying to do better, but I do not want you to think less of me if the things I would hide disappoint or anger you, or worse, hurt you (Morgan) its difficult isn't it * Molly nods (Molly) Yes. I do not hide things for the sake of hiding, or because I do not love you. It is because I love you too much and the thought of you thinking ill of me cuts so deeply * Morgan sighs (Molly) I am going to keep trying. And if you have questions of me, I will do my best to answer them. * Morgan nods (Morgan) alright (Molly) Do you have any questions? *she watches him* (Morgan) No, not at the moment... you? * Molly thinks about this (Molly) Are you ever worried that you and I are bad for each other? * Morgan shakes his head (Morgan) nol (Morgan) never (Molly) Do you ever worry that this is not what things were supposed to be, that my path-wandering has taken us from the paths you would have been happier on? (Morgan) Not particularly... * Molly nods (Morgan) you feel that way? (Molly) That maybe this is all wrong and you should be elsewhere instead? * Molly sips the tea * Morgan frowns (Morgan) No. Do you? (Molly) I don't know. It is complicated. Sometimes I think you would have been far happier living happily ever after with them and only encountering me platonically... *she pauses, checking his expression** * Morgan is scowling (Molly) But often it is just so beautiful and achingly perfect, and you seem contented and happy, and so much better than you were when we met, and I feel like you are the what my soul has always cried out for. * Morgan just watches her (Molly) So no, mostly I feel like we have ended up on a path that although it took us both through pain and loneliness, we are in a good place together, and we will build grafdoms with all the good values you have, and children with those values too. We have something very special. * Morgan nods * Molly glances at him then looks away "My honesty is what you think you want, but I am not sure it pleases you" (Morgan) Your first statement gave me pause... (Molly) As I said, it is complicated (Morgan) I don't tend to wander along the path of what ifs... whichever way you imagine it, disappointment lays ahead (Molly) I'm not sure what you mea-... **There's Claudia's knock on the door. Molly turns her attention to the view of the dock from the window** * Morgan goes to open the door (Molly) C: I wondered if you wanted to get twenty minutes of sparring in before lunch? * Morgan nods (Morgan) Aye, its been a few days. Blossom, will you excuse me? * Molly nods, sipping her tea "of course" ** You're now known as Claudia * Claudia leads the way to the ballroom "hand to hand or swords?" (Morgan) \/me shrugs (Morgan) your choice (Claudia) Swords then * Morgan nods * Claudia gives him twenty minutes of challenging fighting, and it's unpleasant to realise he hasn't trained as much lately as he should. His skill hasn't dropped but he can feel it pushing his muscles and joints more than he likes (Claudia) **Claudia seems happy enough, and the lunch bell rings** Coming to the dining room? (Morgan) I'll be along soon * Claudia nods, sheathing her falchion as she walks * Morgan heads back to his study (Claudia) **Molly has fallen asleep on the window seat, a blanket pulled over her** * Morgan sighs, going to wake her gently (Claudia) **She stretches, smiling** sorry, I must be more tired from the healing than I thought ** You're now known as Molly * Morgan looks at her with concern (Morgan) are you alright? * Molly nods (Molly) I am fine. Were you wanting to go back to the cottage now? (Morgan) No, its lunchtime... * Molly yawns, hand over her mouth (Molly) Alright, my love. I'll check my hair and makeup and be ready * Morgan nods * Molly gets up, going through to the bedroom * Molly is in there less than a minute before coming back (Molly) Now that everything is done with Elsie, we ought to consider how we could test whether I can heal any harm you could cause with your talent (Morgan) Not while you're still tired from it * Molly nods (Molly) In a day or two, perhaps. You will insist on trying it on yourself? (Morgan) I was thinking pork, actually... * Molly tilts her head (Molly) I dont know if I can heal dead flesh * Morgan shrugs * Molly smirks a little "Varick would suggest the idea of a zombie army" * Morgan nods (Morgan) yes he would (Molly) But if I can't heal it, you could keep going and we could eat it *she smiles* * Morgan nods (Morgan) that is true (Molly) I have no objection to you doing it to me, but I am sure you do (Morgan) I've had nightmares where my touch caused Dietlinde to burn... I will not see that look of pain on your face * Molly frowns deeply (Molly) _Nightmares_? Plural? * Morgan nods (Molly) I know of the first one... there were more? * Molly looks deeply concerned (Morgan) one or two (Molly) Why didn't you say? (Morgan) One was while I was away... another I think you'd had a nightmare and needed to talk about it * Molly nods (Molly) I'm sorry, it sounds awful * Morgan nods (Morgan) it was rather (Molly) I should have been there for you. * Morgan shrugs (Molly) Were Heinzharold or Claudia there for you at least? (Morgan) I didn't mention it (Morgan) They talked me down from bursting into flames * Molly nods (Molly) That is something at least. * Morgan nods (Molly) We will go slowly with experimenting. * Morgan nods (Molly) **They have lunch on the ship and he takes a little time to walk around before they get underway again, the rain now falling and making it hard to talk. When they get back to the cottages, Elsie and James tell them that HH, Inga and Varick haven't returned from Sunnymeade yet** * Morgan frowns (Morgan) reck'n I should go and find 'em? (Molly) **Elsie is downstairs, nursing Thomas. She winces just after he latches** No, they didn't go til after lunch * Morgan nods * Molly frowns "does something hurt?" (Molly) **Elsie nods** Normally only when he first latches. It makes my toes curl, and there's like a deep shooting pain at the side * Molly frowns deeper "Hmm, maybe I should ride down and see Beth, ask what it is" **Morgan however is not unfamiliar with the description of the pain, having had a wife nursing a newborn** (Morgan) I hate to be the bearer of less than great news but... its a normal thing. Your body is still getting used to the feeding process (Molly) **Elsie nods** I don't mind as long as it's not a problem * Molly shrugs "If Morgan is content that it's normal I'll bow to his greater experience in this regard" * Morgan nods (Molly) **Elsie thanks him** * Molly glances at Morgan "It would seem like a good time to get the cottage next door cleared up nicely and leave Inga less to do tomorrow then?" * Morgan nods * Molly heads through to the other cottage (Molly) Would you rather come with me, or work in separate areas? (Morgan) I'll come make a nuisance of myself with you (Morgan) unless you wish for some time alone? * Molly smiles (Molly) No, I am happy for you to come * Molly heads up the stairs * Morgan follows her up the stairs (Molly) I think we will leave their room alone... we'll start in the room that used to be yours and work down * Morgan raises an eyebrow (Morgan) oh really? * Molly smiles "Mmhmm. That's generally the best method, don't you think?" (Morgan) Sorry, I was just recalling what you said you used to think about happening in my room... * Molly goes to his room, the one that overlooks the garden. Her expression is mock innocence (Molly) You'll need to refresh my memory, mon petit chou (Morgan) Ah, no, since it clearly wasn't _that_ important... * Molly smiles (Molly) Oh, you referred to my statement that this was the room I thought you would make me your mistress in deed as well as word? * Morgan nods * Molly watches him, finding a duster to start on the furniture (Molly) Had you had somewhere else in mind? * Morgan shrugs (Morgan) I hadn't considered the practicality of it (Molly) Oh, I had... (Morgan) oh? * Molly stretches up to dust the corner of the windows "About a day and a bit after you asked me I had asked Captain Tsaylur for additional advice on preventing a child being made" (Morgan) that surprises me somewhat (Molly) That I was practical? (Morgan) I suppose... I think I considered you to be more... innocent of it all * Molly lifts the sash window, making a cold breeze join them (Molly) Even the most naive farm girl knows that babies are caused by laying with a man... **She glances over her shoulder** It starts when you try to play leapfrog... * Morgan chuckles (Morgan) not very well, of course (Molly) Of course. I knew about herbs, I thought she may have some more wisdom. Which she did. * Molly closes the window again (Morgan) I see * Molly glances at him (Molly) She had no idea _whose_ mistress I might have been (Morgan) no? (Molly) I had told her I could not say (Morgan) why? * Molly starts on the windowsill "I had not given you a very clear answer, nor did I think you were ready for the world to know" * Morgan nods slowly (Morgan) makes sense (Molly) **She nods, watching his expression with mischief** I dare say my cheeks were bright red when she explained what Withdrawal meant! * Morgan sniggers (Morgan) oh I would imagine so * Molly giggles, her expression playful and teasing "it was something like *she does a Montaigne accent* 'before the end when a man is satisfied it is vital you prevent him from spilling his seed within you' " (Morgan) oh dear * Molly smiles "I was surprised but, I must admit, quite intrigued!" (Morgan) oh? (Molly) Well it sounded far more interesting than my mother saying about it being like farm animals but on my back and only for a minute or two, don't you think? * Morgan nods (Morgan) sounds like it * Molly watches him (Molly) Are you cleaning, my love or wanting to watch me clean? (Morgan) I'm mostly doing the latter if truth be told * Molly smiles (Molly) I don't really mind that * Morgan nods * Molly moves on to cleaning the dresser "So yes, very quickly after you had asked me, I started taking the herbs so that I was protected should you develop and desire and intention to take me to a bed and have me" * Morgan nods (Molly) Being on The Coral did not then help my curiosity at all! (Molly) ((What's he doing? Sitting, standing etc?)) (Morgan) ((standing in the doorway)) (Morgan) no? (Molly) Before then, I knew I wanted to kiss you again and be naked with you, and to let you take pleasure within me… at least until I had to make you withdraw! * Morgan nods, blushing * Molly smiles (Molly) But on the Coral I learnt about how strongly a man _could_ desire a woman, and what things would please him. That was very enlightening indeed (Morgan) such as? (Molly) Using my hands, my mouth... my throat... **She delivers this with nonchalance as she cleans, but she's keeping an eye in the reflection from the mirror**...different positions and so on * Morgan nods slowly (Molly) Conversation with worldly women and lots of sparkling wine becomes very detailed. But I learnt nothing about a woman's desire and needs, so I simply could not understand the warm, frustrated feelings I was getting whilst imagining doing those things to you as they were kindly explained to me **again it is delivered with nonchalance, but he knows her too well to not see through it** (Morgan) It surprised you? (Molly) That there was a whole world of behaviours I did not know of? Or that I could imagine you that way? Or my own arousal? (Morgan) the latter * Molly wipes out the drawers (Molly) Yes, very much so. It wasn't the first time I had felt it, but it had never been quite so intense or sustained before * Morgan nods * Molly gets on her knees, face to the floor to check under the dresser (Molly) Every night when I went to bed after that, my mind would go to thoughts of you naked and what it would be like *she shivers pleasantly, an interesting movement when she is reaching underneath and her bottom is in the air*... but also how disappointed in me you might be, how disgusted you might be that I was imagining doing to you the things that courtesans would do. It is no wonder this mix of arousal and anxiety gave me insomnia! * Morgan nods, staring at her backside (Morgan) aye I can imagine that would be troubling (Molly) Ah ha! *she comes back out, standing up with a random button* (Molly) It was, especially when service at chapel reminded me that lust was a sin, and I realised that was what I was feeling for you * Morgan nods * Molly smiles "I need to dust the door frame, perhaps you should sit on the bed?" * Morgan nods, going to sit on the bed * Molly watches him a long moment before wiping the door frame down (Molly) I hadn't really had a time frame in mind. I was hopeful you would want to bed me, but I was not counting upon it. And then you proposed marriage and my father insisted on propriety, and I was fairly sure nothing would happen until we were wed... (Morgan) almost... * Molly glances over her shoulder "As it turned out a few minor things did happen, but by then my desire for you was torturous, and waiting was a daily ache" * Morgan nods * Molly comes over to him, smiling "now, we need to strip the sheets, hmm?" (Morgan) sit down, get up, move over there... * Morgan gets up again * Molly blinks rapidly, then nods slightly (Molly) I'm sorry, I have chattered on about all manner of indecent things, and that is not where your mind was... (Morgan) No, it pretty much was (Molly) Oh... just... there's no point stripping a bed until _afterwards_ (Morgan) afterwards? (Molly) After making love... * Morgan nods slowly * Molly smiles at him "We need not, if you are not comfortable here... or if you had somewhere else in mind" (Morgan) here is important to you though (Molly) You are important to me. I would not want to do it if you do not desire to. I would rather be intimate with you where and when you preferred instead ** You are now disconnected ------------------------------ Logging started for 192.168.1.82:#7thsea on Tuesday, 18 January 2022 17:47:03 Greenwich Mean Time ------------------------------ ** You have joined #7thsea (Molly) **There's a noise from downstairs of feline feet scrabbling and chasing, followed by a clattering of ceramics onto the floor. Molly sighs** That answers that, my love * Morgan nods (Morgan) aye, it does * Molly sighs again before she heads downstairs, shooing the cats out * Morgan follows her down * Molly is collecting up the broken cups (Molly) I'd rather not have both of them on the ship! (Morgan) I believe Catherine is taking the other one in (Molly) Good *she uses a dust pan and brush* we are too oft interrupted as it is! * Morgan nods * Molly smiles as she bins the broken bits "No matter. I do not think anyone has the stamina to make love in all the places on the estate that I have fantasised about making love to you in anyway!" (Morgan) That is possibly true aye (Molly) Although I do know that before you left Inga made Heinzharold do it four times in one day! **she heads back up stairs to do the sheets** (Morgan) _made_ him? (Molly) *she frowns* Not forced him! * Morgan nods (Molly) Eagerly encouraged, perhaps * Morgan nods * Molly tilts her head, puzzling over something as she strips the bed (Molly) It would be impossible to force a man, surely? (Morgan) thats what I was thinking * Molly nods (Molly) It rather requires a certain amount of enthusiasm doesn't it? (Morgan) usually (Molly) It is not as if gentlemen walk around in such a state generally **she smiles, bundling up the sheets** (Morgan) generally, no... * Molly nods (Molly) It's far more practical being a woman, noone could ever tell our arousal just from a glance **she kisses his cheek with a mischievous smile as she passes him on her way downstairs* * Morgan nods (Morgan) trye * Molly gets on with the rest of the house cleaning without trying to tease him further, and she is satisfied with the work by the time the others are back and Varick is eating his tea, chatting to Morgan about the children at Sunnymeade and then changing topic ** You're now known as Varick (Varick) When do we have to go, Papa? (Morgan) couple of days (Varick) I will miss my cousins * Morgan nods (Morgan) I know (Varick) When will we come back? (Morgan) I don't really know ** Closing Link: Varick[~androirc@Galaxy-S8.lan] by my.server.name (Ping Timeout) ** You are now disconnected ------------------------------ Logging started for 192.168.1.82:#7thsea on Tuesday, 18 January 2022 18:49:37 Greenwich Mean Time ------------------------------ ** You have joined #7thsea (Varick) Where are we going next? (Morgan) Insel (Varick) And then to Graben for uncle Edwards wedding? (Morgan) I suppose so (Varick) Will we see our new ships? **The new ships are in Zweibrucke on the south coast, their original plan was to sail around Montaigne, go to Zweibrucke and ride up to Graben. Now they are going to the north coast and down to Freiburg, with no idea if there will even be a wedding** (Morgan) at some point * Varick continues to eat a minute (Varick) Are Elsie and James coming to Insel? (Morgan) No, they're staying here (Varick) Dont they like fish? (Morgan) I think they'd like to spend some time just the three of them (Varick) But I will miss them (Morgan) I know you will (Varick) Are Heinzharold and Inga coming with us? * Morgan nods (Morgan) aye (Morgan) HeinzHarold is going to see a friend he thought had died in the war but hadnt' (Varick) **he nods** The one with the bum. (Morgan) thats him (Varick) Will I meet him? (Morgan) Maybe (Varick) Will he show us his bum? (Morgan) Definitely not (Varick) But we shouldn't talk about his bum either, because that is a bit rude? (Varick) **HH strolls in looking for coffee** what's a bit rude? (Morgan) This is entirely your doing (Varick) Talking about people's bums is a bit rude (Varick) **HH looks a bit confused** how is tha' my fault? (Morgan) because its your friends he's talking about... (Varick) HH: Which ones? I have a lot of friends (Varick) Do they all have bums? *he starts giggling* (Morgan) with a propensity to show their backsides? (Varick) **HH grins** Doesnt narrow it down as much as y' think. (Varick) Have you ever seen my Papa's bum? *he starts giggling louder, it almost but not quite covers the sound of Molly's footsteps descending the stairs* * Morgan looks towards the stairs (Varick) **Molly comes down and sets a basket of dirty washing by the door** Someone sounds very cheerful! (Varick) HH $shall I tell yer wife I've seen yer bum once or twice?$ (Morgan) $It'll hardly be a surprise$ (Varick) *he looks to Molly* We're talking about Papa's bum **he eats some more** (Varick) **Molly blinks a moment, looking at them all** You're talking about Papa's... ? (Varick) **HH starts to grin, but stays quiet** (Varick) Bum. **he drinks some milk** (Morgan) $I wonder which of us will get told off first$ (Varick) **She looks amused but is trying to stay straight faced** Why are we talking about that? (Varick) [Your bum does make me rather cheerful too though!] (Varick) $Probably me, I always get the blame$ (Morgan) [I'm glad to hear that] * Varick shrugs "Heinzharold's friends have bums, Papa is his friend, Papa has a bum and I think Heinzharold might have seen it" (Varick) **HH grins at Morgan $Can't fault his logic really$ (Morgan) $He's not stupid$ (Varick) M: *she glances at Morgan's expression with a raised eyebrow* I see... (Varick) $Looks like it's you is going to get told off!$ (Morgan) $Apparently so$ (Varick) I asked Papa if we would see the bum of Heinzharold's friend at the fish festival (Varick) M: *she looks a little neutral* I think that's enough bums on th-... _at_ the table, thank you. * Varick starts giggling "You said bums on the table!" (Varick) Molly blushes a little "I meant at. Enough bums now." HH grins at Morgan: $Not sure I want to eat dinner here if that's what you pair get up to!$ (Morgan) $No comment$ (Varick) **HH chuckles. She looks at Morgan** I am going to take the washing to the main house (Morgan) alright blossom (Varick) **Molly kisses Varick's crown before taking the washing and going** (Varick) HH $did you get lucky, or will you catch it later?$ * Varick keeps eating (Morgan) $Oh I'll catch it no doubt$ (Varick) $when she starts, grab her bum and tell her you'd rather talk about how nice her bum is. Distraction technique.$ (Morgan) $Not a bad idea$ (Varick) HH: Talking about Rosie? * Morgan nods * Varick nods "His Daddy is nice. We're going to the fish festival" (Varick) **HH gets his coffee** I'm lookin' forward to it. It's like the Shadowfayre (Varick) But with fish, not shadows? (Varick) **HH laughs** Can't eat lotsa diff'rent flavours of shadow. I think yer Papa is gonna enjoy it * Varick looks at Morgan "Will you?" (Morgan) I don't know yet (Varick) I will like it (Morgan) I'm sure you will (Varick) HH shrugs: Rosie said it was a good laugh (Varick) Captain Ulysses will like a fish festival too * Varick takes both the cats with him to bed. At dinner time, the six adults are sat around the table, taking turns holding Thomas so everyone can eat. Elsie has dressed him in one of the Eisen style nightgowns Molly made. Morgan has finished first so has the baby (Varick) J: What day are you leaving? ** You're now known as Molly * Molly looks to Morgan "Perhaps the day after tomorrow?" * Morgan nods (Morgan) that is the plan I think (Molly) We are going to the island to see Alice and Florrie * Morgan nods, looking at Thomas (Molly) **The baby looks peacefully asleep** I: Are we staying overnight there? * Molly looks to Morgan "That would make sense..." (Morgan) it would (Molly) HH $want me to engineer you having that night alone with her?$ (Morgan) $that'd be good$ (Molly) HH: You two should go up t' the big house for the night, get whatever needs doing done. Not likely t' be back for a good few months. Inga and I will babysit (Molly) **Inga nods** That's a good idea * Morgan nods absently * Molly sips her cherry brandy, glancing at her husband before saying "I would imagine Morgan would prefer to stay near the ship and spend the time with Florrie and Alice" * Morgan clearly isn't paying attention (Molly) **HH gently kicks him under the table* * Molly watches Morgan a moment "What do you think, liebling?" (Morgan) sorry... what? * Molly frowns (Molly) I said perhaps you would prefer to be near the ship and with Alice and Florrie than working at the manor (Morgan) [If you do not wish to have a night alone with me...] (Morgan) Maybe... (Molly) [Oh! I had not realised. Yes, I do. Very much] * Molly smiles "we can decide later" * Morgan nods (Molly) **those still eating continue but Molly keeps an eye on Morgan and how much he seems distracted from everyone chatting** (Morgan) [stop worrying] (Molly) [There are only a handful of times I can recall you being inattentive enough to need a catch up. Do you want me to take the baby?] (Morgan) [No, its fine] (Molly) **Dinner continues pleasantly, the baby passed around again, and soon Heinzharold is pulling on his coat for the night time walk, goodnights said to the others. Outside it is cold and cloudy but dry** ** You're now known as HH (HH) Good trip out today? (Morgan) aye mostly... argued with a priest, you know how that cheers me up (HH) Gotta have the occasional religious skirmish, it's in our blood * Morgan nods (HH) Nice for you two t' have some time together (Morgan) aye, it was... thank you. (HH) No problem, man. Figured after all th' stress you needed it * Morgan nods (HH) Claudia alright? (Morgan) aye (HH) Keen to be on the move? (Morgan) I think that statement is always true for her (HH) And you? (Morgan) aye, I suppose so * HH nods (HH) Stayed 'ere in Avalon a lot longer than we intended when we landed on September nineteenth. Two months now. * Morgan nods (Morgan) been busy making things right * HH nods (HH) Done a pretty good job, and only one dead. * Morgan nods slowly (HH) Not been good f' your nightmares though (Morgan) Gon' get em anyway * HH nods (HH) Ever dream anything nice? (Morgan) Occasionally * HH nods (HH) Molly seen the window seat today? * Morgan nods (Morgan) she was thrilled... and what Claudia's done to the study (HH) What's she done? (Morgan) You wouldn't believe me, so you'll just have to wait and see it * HH nods (HH) Alright * HH is quite happy just wandering along, obviously familiar now with the estate. They're almost back when he says (HH) Gonna miss this place? * Morgan nods (Morgan) I expect so (HH) Inga thinks Molly will too (Morgan) This place was something of a saving grace for her in the beginning (HH) Bathed in the wine cellar, I 'eard (Morgan) One of the maids took pity on her and took her in, told me she was employed here... I assumed Lady Torrington hired her (HH) Didn't she? (Morgan) no... (HH) Who did then? (Morgan) The maid... she told me Molly was a new maid and didn't say anything else about it. (HH) Unlike you to fall f' that (Morgan) I was new here (HH) I do 'ear that she thought you were *he thinks* the most beautiful man she'd ever laid eyes upon (Morgan) Thats what she told me too (HH) I was impressed she managed to get all th' way up here whilst being blind (Morgan) shut up pretty boy * HH laughs (HH) Not my fault I'm gorgeous (HH) Kinda sweet though, her thinking that * Morgan nods (HH) Guess after that she realised what an ass you are, eh? * Morgan nods (Morgan) surprised it took that long * HH nods (HH) Yep **they get back to the cottages. He grins, looking up at Morgan's lit window** I'll leave ya to face the music about the bums * Morgan nods, thumping him * HH hugs him "Remember: Grab, Compliment, Distract." * Morgan nods * HH is chuckling to himself as he goes into the other cottage ** You're now known as Molly * Molly is reading an unfamiliar book in bed when he gets there, already under the sheets, shoulders bare (Molly) Good evening, my love (Morgan) blossom * Molly puts in a book mark (Molly) Are you well? * Morgan nods (Morgan) you? * Molly nods (Molly) I am * Morgan nods (Morgan) good (Molly) I have put a note on Alice's mirror stating our intent to arrive sometime on Friday afternoon * Morgan nods, getting undressed * Molly watches him do so with a smile (Molly) Tomorrow I need to go in the pool and see John * Morgan nods (Morgan) Aye (Molly) Did you want to be there for the pool? (Morgan) I think thats a good idea (Molly) I won't take a heavy dress this time * Molly smiles * Morgan nods (Morgan) that would be a god idea * Molly makes sure there's space for him in the bed (Molly) Perhaps just a shift * Morgan nods slowly * Molly smiles "A nice thin white one, perhaps?" (Morgan) Depends if you expect to see anyone else at the time... (Molly) You would be very displeased if Heinzharold popped by to be helpful! * Morgan nods (Morgan) quite (Molly) Though I gather he has already seen your bum * Molly is smiling when she says it (Morgan) Given how long we've known eachother thats hardly surprising (Molly) Of course not. So him seeing mine would not perturb you overmuch, hmm? * Morgan frowns (Molly) I am teasing you, my love. I have no intention of letting him see it * Morgan nods (Morgan) good (Molly) That makes you feel possessive? (Morgan) Somewhat aye * Molly kisses his cheek (Molly) You have nothing to worry about **he realises he never told her about the dream where she was sparkly and sat in HHs lap bare-breasted** * Morgan climbs into bed (Morgan) I had a nightmare like that... (Molly) About my bottom? * Morgan shakes his head (Morgan) You were all sparkly... I walked into the room to find you sat topless in his lap, his mouth on your breast... * Molly wrinkles her nose (Molly) Oh dear, that's not nice (Morgan) No... I wanted to throw myself overboard * Molly strokes his arm (Molly) It sounds awful * Morgan nods (Molly) Why on Theah was I doing that?! * Morgan shrugs (Molly) He is handsome, but it would be like being intimate with a sibling! * Morgan nods * Molly glances at him playfully "Besides, I don't think I'd like being called "Captain Molly" in bed! (Morgan) no? * Molly smiles "I don't think so, mon petit chou. I do not think I wish for that level of control..." * Morgan glances at her (Morgan) why? * Molly tilts her head (Molly) I'm not sure. I suppose sometimes when I tease you and draw out your pleasure I do have quite a bit of control... * Morgan nods (Molly) But generally, I like to feel like I have less control, that I can just relax and enjoy * Morgan nods (Molly) Like on the desk on the Rose, when you were somewhat restraining me... there's a peace to that that is hard to explain * Morgan looks intrigued * Molly develops a micro-expression of extreme mischief before a sweet and innocent expression is formed "Well, goodnight, my love" **she chastely kisses his lips** * Morgan nods, turning over * Molly pouts, lower lip sticking out "That is entirely not what was supposed to occur!" (Morgan) I've no doubt about that * Molly is quiet a moment before she says contritely "I apologise. Goodnight" * Morgan starts to chuckle * Molly nods a little (Morgan) You needn't apologise... (Molly) You are not hurt? (Molly) I could not tell if you were upset with me (Morgan) No, just playing you at your own game * Molly breathes out a sigh of relief (Molly) You're very convincing (Morgan) Wouldn't have been a very good spy if I wasn't * Molly curls up to his back (Molly) You wanted to know about the peaceful feeling? * Morgan nods, fidgeting back onto his back * Molly tucks herself under his arm, hand on his chest (Molly) Perhaps I can share my thoughts and feelings to you, see if I can replicate it... * Morgan nods (Morgan) if you think that'd help * Molly takes a few slow, deep breaths, concentrating. It starts to seep through his mind. It feels like a mix of deeply calmful meditation and pure bliss, swirling in his mind in blacks, deep purple, navy, greeny-blue, pink. It feels something similar to the good feeling of being right in himself he gets when they have sparkly sex with the spiraling energy * Morgan nods slowly * Molly withdraws it "could you feel it?" * Morgan nods (Morgan) aye (Molly) That is how I felt that night (Morgan) I see * Molly props up to look at his expression ((what is it?)) (Morgan) ((thoughtful)) (Molly) It surprises you? * Molly settles back down (Morgan) Somewhat, aye (Molly) Because it is such a strange thing to feel? (Morgan) A little I suppose (Molly) And because you were able to make me feel so wonderful? * Morgan nods (Molly) Does that discomfort you? (Morgan) Not particularly * Molly nods (Molly) It is a powerful thing (Morgan) making you feel wonderful? * Molly nods (Molly) Yes, and also the feeling itself (Morgan) I suppose it is (Molly) It feels right to me like that. I am not sure I could even imagine a counterpart sensation to that, an equally powerful feeling of being in control * Morgan nods * Molly ponders on this a minute, then says "That sensation I had would be very incompatible with being called Captain anything! * Morgan nods (Morgan) I think you're right * Molly nods (Molly) But I very much enjoy everything that we do, even when it doesn't bring that odd peace. It is all very thrilling and wonderful * Morgan nods (Morgan) good (Molly) You knew that, I hope? (Morgan) I figured you enjoyed it * Molly nods (Molly) **her tone turns playful** And you, mon petit chou... you might like being called Captain Morgan now and then? (Morgan) Only when captaining a ship * Molly giggles (Molly) In the circumstance I was suggesting it would not be safe to be captaining a ship at the same time (Morgan) No, that is true (Molly) Especially in the crowd nest when you'd be unable to keep your eyes open (Morgan) Too small up there (Molly) You have squeezed up there with Heinzharold... (Morgan) That was a squeeze (Molly) There would be plenty of squeezing if I was up there with you (Morgan) oh? (Molly) Mmhmm... four hours of watch where you were stood close with me and unable to absent yourself, I am certain my hands would wander * Morgan nods (Molly) Fortunate then that I dislike heights and you are not subjected to my presuming hands when you are up there, hmm? (Morgan) when I'm supposed to be paying attention, aye * Molly nods (Molly) During your middle watches, my presuming hands and I have the bed to ourselves (Morgan) aye (Molly) It is much less interesting, but we rub along together quite well *she smirks* * Morgan sniggers (Morgan) no doubt * Molly giggles (Molly) Do you ever wonder if that is what is happening in our bed whilst you are up there? * Morgan nods (Morgan) now and then (Molly) Do you mind? (Morgan) No my love * Molly nods, trailing her fingers in an idle pattern in his chest (Molly) You have never, ever done so in the crows nest? * Morgan shakes his head (Morgan) I'm up there, I'm doing a job (Molly) Hmm... how on Theah did you manage as a young man at sea then? (Morgan) You forget I was saint Morgan of purijtytown * Molly is starting to sound more sleepy, but the fingertip on his chest keeps the same pattern and speed (Molly) Is it really impure to do so oneself? My Mama would say absolutely, but you have said in the past you did so when you were much younger... (Morgan) Not while on duty * Molly snuggles more into him "mmhmm. Impractical in a hammock without it swaying and altering others..." * Morgan nods * Molly goes quiet, though she's still touching his chest * Morgan glances at her * Molly is smiling to herself, eyes unfocused * Morgan leans over and kisses her forehead (Morgan) get some sleep blossom * Molly sounds vaguely disappointed "Oh, you are ready to sleep now?" (Morgan) You are sounding sleepy my love (Molly) I was just revelling in being with you like this. Our circumstances prevent us from being close and touching as oft as I would wish. * Morgan nods (Molly) But if you wished to sleep now, we can (Morgan) Probably best my love * Molly moves up a little, kissing him softly "then I hope you will have a pleasant dream of me, at least" * Morgan nods (Morgan) sleep well blossom (Molly) I have not displeased or discomfitted you though? (Morgan) not at all (Molly) Alright, my love **she moves back to cuddle up, head on his chest and one icy foot on his shin** * Morgan tries to settle to sleep * Molly sings to him, it's very slow and sleepy, and he falls asleep ** You are now disconnected