------------------------------ Logging started for 192.168.1.82:#7thsea on Monday, 21 February 2022 15:54:04 Greenwich Mean Time ------------------------------ ** You have joined #7thsea (Molly) **He and Claudia chat a while, and once dawn has come and they're moving again he gets coffee organised to take to the study. Molly and Varick aren't up yet, and there's no sign of HH and Inga. Even the cat isn't there. * Morgan sits at his desk, drinking his coffee * Molly is the first to get up, he can hear her singing to herself as she dresses * Molly comes in about ten minutes later, cat at her heels (Molly) Ahh, there you are. Good morning my love (Morgan) good morning blossom * Molly pours herself some coffee before going to look out of the rear window (Molly) How are you now? * Morgan shrugs (Morgan) alright I suppose (Molly) How was your watch? (Morgan) Not bad. Had HeinzHarold for company for an hour * Molly sits across the desk from him (Molly) It didn't work on her? * Morgan laughs (Morgan) Apparently she doesn't have your constitution and it affected her a good deal more (Molly) Oh poor Inga! (Morgan) Oh I don't know (Molly) No? * Molly smiles, sipping her coffee (Morgan) He came out in the hopes she'd fall asleep after round... four I think he said * Molly winces (Molly) That's rather a lot for a man * Morgan nods * Molly tilts her head with a mischievous smile (Molly) I would have thought it was physically difficult after the second or third time * Morgan nods (Molly) I wonder whether that can be caused by magic... (Morgan) I would imagine so * Molly ponders this (Molly) Perhaps we could test sometime whether I can use it to make you... in a state conducive to performing. * Morgan nods (Morgan) in the interests of science... (Molly) Oh entirely! * Molly giggles (Molly) We would need to be fully dressed to ensure you weren't favourably distracted * Morgan shrugs (Morgan) I suppose * Molly sips her coffee, looking distracted herself * Molly smiles, brushing it off (Molly) So Heinzharold will be suffering today? (Morgan) I would imagine so (Morgan) He did say he might wear a dress, for the soothing airflow * Molly giggles (Molly) Oh no! I do not need that image in my mind thank you! (Morgan) I've banned him from climbing the rigging... and told him I will not be asking you to sooth what ails him (Molly) I would, provided I do not have to look at or touch him _there_ (Morgan) You would, but you won't. He was warned. * Molly giggles "You would let him suffer?" * Morgan shrugs briefly (Molly) And Inga? (Morgan) Probably * Molly smiles (Molly) If they complain, we can keep it for ourselves? (Morgan) You would want to use it again? * Molly nods (Molly) Yes, if you would get enjoyment from that * Morgan nods * Molly smiles (Molly) I would like that. But I would maybe drink less than last time! (Morgan) or not... * Molly watches him (Molly) I wasn't quite as desperate as you would like? * Morgan shakes his head slightly (Molly) I cannot imagine it is possible to be more so (Morgan) I guess we'll find out * Molly smiles "can you imagine that in combination with the sparkliness?!" (Morgan) We'd die of exhaustion * Molly nods "I can think of worse ways!" * Morgan nods (Morgan) indeed (Molly) I will put myself at Your Excellency's service then, I have no prior commitments on my evenings. * Morgan nods (Morgan) good * Molly watches him, fidgeting briefly "How was your night after your watch?" * Morgan frowns (Morgan) unpleasant (Molly) Another nightmare? * Morgan nods (Molly) Seb again? (Morgan) No... When I told my father I'd married Dietlinde, except mother was there this time * Molly frowns, sipping her coffee (Molly) She was not there in reality? (Morgan) No (Molly) That definitely sounds like a nightmare. She was displeased? (Morgan) Hurt and disappointed * Molly looks pained (Molly) Oh no * Morgan nods, frowning as he sips his coffee * Molly watches him (Molly) Are you alright? (Morgan) as alright as I can be (Molly) Can I do anything for you? * Morgan shakes his head (Morgan) I know it wasn't real but... seeing it still affected me * Molly nods (Molly) I can imagine that being difficult (Molly) Would you like me to embrace you? * Morgan nods (Morgan) please * Molly gets up, coming to him. She wraps her arms around him "I will do this whenever you wish, you just need to say you wish me to" this puts his head at the perfect height to rest on her cleavage (Morgan) I know my love * Molly leans her cheek to his crown, just holding him close (Morgan) A certain irony has occurred to me * Molly stays where she is (Molly) Oh? (Morgan) All that worrying over whether or not your being a gentleman daughter would be enough to satisfy protocol... (Molly) Oh. I had not thought of that * Morgan nods (Molly) It's still very strange to me * Morgan nods * Molly loosens her grip, but sits on the desk in front of him rather than going back to her seat (Molly) A Freiarr's daughter could not have been your mistress though... (Morgan) No, but all the concern for the marriage... * Molly nods (Molly) It would have been far easier to have arrived in Sudlachenburg to tell them you were wedding a Rosenkrantz, not a Forrester. * Morgan nods (Molly) It was very worrying for you? * Morgan nods (Molly) I am sure you had a backup plan though (Morgan) Not a very good one, but yes * Molly leans over to get her coffee (Molly) What was it? * Morgan smiles slightly (Morgan) give it all up and go back to Avalon (Molly) Still working for Catherine? * Morgan shrugs (Morgan) maybe going to live in Catterick * Molly smiles (Molly) You would have given up Sudlachenburg to marry me? * Morgan nods * Molly looks at him fondly (Molly) That's very touching, my love (Morgan) its just the truth (Molly) It is a big thing, to leave behind one's heritage and homeland for love. * Morgan nods (Morgan) Yes it is * Molly smiles, sipping her coffee (Molly) So it is important that you know I appreciate it * Morgan smiles slightly (Morgan) so do I * Molly leans forward to gently kiss him "I know you do..." * Morgan presses his lips to hers briefly (Molly) And now it's more complicated, isn't it? (Morgan) is it? (Molly) What is my heritage... where is my homeland... (Morgan) You were born and raised in Avalon... if you feel that is your homeland, that is where it is... (Molly) I don't know what I feel * Morgan nods (Molly) It is as if all my mooring ropes have been cut. Have you ever felt that? * Morgan smiles slightly (Morgan) yes * Molly looks embarrassed (Molly) Sorry. (Morgan) what for? (Molly) You must have felt this lost after the fire * Morgan nods (Molly) It was tactless of me to ask * Morgan shrugs * Molly sips the coffee (Molly) Have there been other times? * Morgan nods (Morgan) many (Molly) Could you share any? (Morgan) After losing my platoon, I was very much adrift... (Molly) At the end of the War? (Morgan) No... though that wasn't much better (Molly) At least you had Heinzharold and Claudia at the end... what happened to your platoon? (Morgan) We got ambushed, only two of us made it out (Molly) Was that early in the war? (Morgan) fairly, aye (Molly) You must have been young, seventeen or eighteen? * Molly offers her free hand to him * Morgan nods, taking it * Molly kisses his knuckles (Molly) Were they your first platoon? * Morgan nods (Molly) I'm sorry, it must have been incredibly difficult for you * Morgan nods (Morgan) First time we'd really had to face our mortality properly * Molly nods (Molly) What happened to the other survivor? (Morgan) went down with his ship near the end of the war * Molly sighs sadly (Molly) Oh liebling... that must have left you in knots * Morgan nods (Molly) You haven't had it easy, my love (Morgan) Not terribly (Molly) What other times have you felt that your moorings have been cut? * Morgan sighs (Morgan) every time I dream of you with Seb * Molly frowns slightly "It impacts you so much?" * Morgan nods (Molly) It feels like you lose me? * Morgan nods * Molly nods sadly (Molly) You know that you have not though? * Morgan nods (Molly) I can take comfort it that at least (Molly) **There's the sound of Varick getting out of bed (Molly) Is there anything you need from me before we are interrupted? Reassurance? (Morgan) No, my love, you have given me that * Molly nods "And I will continue to, any time you wish it" * Morgan nods * Molly kisses him quickly again before finishing the last of her coffee (Molly) I will see to Varick then * Morgan nods (Morgan) alright blossom * Molly does, leaving him for ten minutes sat with just his coffee (Molly) **Varick comes in to hug him** Mama says I have to do reading and sums, but I want to go on deck and learn sailing (Morgan) You need to learn your reading and sums, they are useful when you sail (Molly) V: But I don't like them. I like sailing. (Morgan) but you want to be good at sailing, dont you? (Molly) V: Yes (Morgan) then you need to know your sums and how to read... they're as useful as knowing which way the wind blows (Molly) V: what if I do ten minutes of reading and sums, then the rest sailing? (Morgan) Thats not enough (Molly) V: twenty each? ** You are now disconnected (Ping timeout) ------------------------------ Logging started for 192.168.1.82:#7thsea on Monday, 21 February 2022 20:19:42 Greenwich Mean Time ------------------------------ ** You have joined #7thsea (Morgan) but you want to be good at sailing, dont you? (Morgan) V: Yes (Morgan) then you need to know your sums and how to read... they're as useful as knowing which way the wind blows (Morgan) V: what if I do ten minutes of reading and sums, then the rest sailing? (Morgan) Thats not enough (Morgan) V: twenty each? (Morgan) How long would you normally do? (Molly) V: One whole hour, each! (Morgan) I'll check with your mama * Molly comes in a moment later (Molly) Liebes herz, I think it is time Varick has more clothes. He has grown quite a bit since summer. (Morgan) Alright. * Molly ruffles Varick's hair (Molly) Would you prefer to do that in Freiburg, or give the business to Sudlachenburg instead? (Morgan) How desperately does he need them? (Molly) Not very (Morgan) Then Sudlachenburg * Molly smiles "Alright, liebling" (Morgan) Varick is trying to strike a bargain... (Molly) V: I don't want to do my work, but if I do some I can go with Papa * Molly looks to Morgan "what thinks you?" (Morgan) I'm not against it, providing he does a meaningful amount of learning * Molly nods "Let's get started, Mauschen, then you can go" (Molly) **They start working, but Varick can't concentrate, so Molly relents, letting Varick go up when HH and Inga arrive. HH looks pretty tired, but Inga seems fine * Morgan instructs Varick to get a coat and gloves * Molly looks at them, then at HH (Molly) Heinzharold, would you like to help Varick learn to sail as well? (Molly) **HH looks at Morgan** She tryin' to get rid of us? * Morgan nods (Morgan) obviously (Molly) **HH nods** I'll come with ya * Molly looks to Morgan "would you reheat the coffee pot, my love?" * Morgan nods, concentrating (Molly) Thank you **she pours for Inga, who sits a little gingerly** * Morgan looks at Varick (Morgan) Come along then ** You're now known as HH (HH) **The three of them go up on deck. It's busy, because Sorgi and and Claudia are turning the ship into Der Rotstrom. It's complex, and something good for Varick to learn, but they have to keep out of the way. * HH waits til it is quiet and he can talk quietly to Morgan "How y' doing?" * Morgan shrugs (Morgan) Hurting. Got worse after my watch (HH) Nightmare of them goin' further? (Morgan) Worse. I was telling my father about marrying Dietlinde... my mother came in, and I had to tell her... the hurt and disappointment on her face.... man, when I woke up I went and bloody cried (HH) Aww man, brutal. * Morgan nods (Morgan) its still bothering me (HH) You were pretty bothered when y' showed up to tell me, even just with yer father * Morgan nods (HH) What's botherin' ya most? (Morgan) disappointing her... I never want to see that (HH) Doesn' seem likely y' will going forward * Morgan shrugs (HH) Florrie, right? * Morgan nods (HH) Not on you, man. Wasn't you that did it (Morgan) still... (HH) She's not gonna blame you for Edward's mistake (Morgan) No, I know... but its going to hurt her all the same * HH shrugs (HH) Mebbie she'll take it better than you think (Morgan) We'll see (HH) Y' not telling any of them how she looks? (Morgan) When the times right. Let them get used to the idea of her existing first * HH nods "She's a proper little character, isn't she?" * Morgan smiles, nodding (HH) Miss 'er? * Morgan nods (Morgan) I do, yes * HH nods "even though she looks like she does?" (Morgan) I didn't say it was easy (HH) Doin' well, man * Morgan nods (HH) Didn't know if y'd get a bit too attached b'cause of it (Morgan) I think I'm doing alright in that respect * HH nods (HH) Reck'n so * Morgan nods (HH) Doin' better with the Rosie stuff? * Morgan shrugs * HH grins (HH) She 'ad gone back to sleep (Morgan) I noticed she sat down rather... gingerly * HH grins more "Pretty normal, I'm blessed." * Morgan sniggers (HH) Ne'er seen her wife do it, but that's no surprise. (HH) Yer* * Morgan thumps him * HH laughs (HH) Careful, I'm tender t'day (Morgan) Shame that... * HH nods (HH) Worth it. * Morgan nods (Morgan) good (HH) Gonna get 'nother bottle when it runs out? (Morgan) i think so, aye (HH) Tastes nice (Morgan) aye, I thought so too (HH) Didn' do anything for me, 'cept by proxy * Morgan nods (Morgan) just like he said (HH) Same f' you? * Morgan nods (HH) Not sure I could 'andle that anyway (Morgan) No, I wouldn't imagine so (HH) Guess it'd be a bit like the draw? (Morgan) I suppose so (Morgan) thats due any day, incidentally * HH thinks (HH) Based on wha' we said before, gonna be Sunday or Monday? * Morgan nods (HH) We gonna be in Freiburg by then? (Morgan) aye (HH) Y' got a plan? (Morgan) A few (HH) Know which day it'll be? (Morgan) She will, no doubt (HH) Give most of th' men shore leave, get 'em off the ship? (Morgan) probably a good idea * HH nods (HH) Gonna need me an' Inga to have Varick, or gonna ask Claudia? (Morgan) Probably ask Claudia... she'll need a distraction * HH nods "Got summat I wanna figure out myself" (Morgan) oh? (HH) Wanna know if I can reduce it as a bystander, with a bit of 'elp from my wife. * Morgan nods (HH) Could be 'elpful to know, couldn' it? * Morgan nods (Morgan) yes it could (HH) **last time she was sparkly and he was far away the dream of losing his virginity had led him to waking almost at the point of no return and getting himself off had led to a reduction in the intensity of it for about an hour** (HH) Gives y' more options for guardin' her * Morgan nods (Morgan) get all the crew to a brothel... could be pricey * HH nods (HH) Been almost a month since they were in Kingston though, sure they'll be willin' to pay their way * Morgan nods (Morgan) I suppose so (HH) Good timin' doing it in Freiburg, plenty o' places, no language problems. Get ot done b'fore they start squabblin' * Morgan nods (HH) Shoulda seen 'ow bad that was on the Nauti. Eleven weeks we did, off Montaigne. Slightest thing could set off a fight by th' time we got shore leave (Morgan) Yet in Montaigne you can't throw a rock without hitting a brothel owner * HH nods "wouldn' have been made welcome. 'Ad to knock seven bells out of a few of 'em." * Morgan nods (HH) I was alright though (Morgan) you were a good boy... (HH) Sort of... *he grins* (HH) Made sure I wasn' in fights, mostly helped keep an eye on th'others once we got to the brothels * Morgan nods (Morgan) aye (HH) Wasn' sat outside in the rain, like some (Morgan) It wasn't always raining * HH snorts "wish I'da seen the look on yer face at that one in Fischler" * Morgan shrugs (Morgan) I had work to do, people to threaten (HH) Much more enjoyable than bubbies(!) (Morgan) I got an axe out of it (HH) Alright, tha's about the same * Morgan nods (HH) Gonna have Edward with us on Sunday and Monday? (Morgan) Possibly (HH) Wha' we gonna do with him an' the draw? (Morgan) I don't know... (HH) Gonna be an issue, b'cause y' can't really explain it to 'im * Morgan nods (Morgan) I know (HH) Mebbie Claudia can look after 'im too (Morgan) Only if I want his nose broken... * HH laughs (Morgan) Though... (Morgan) packing him off with Varick to look round might be an idea (HH) Send them to Jarvie? * Morgan nods (Morgan) good idea (HH) Y' gonna see if you can set it off? * Morgan nods (Morgan) and if she can stop it (HH) Without y' having to do it? * Morgan nods (HH) Tha' would be much better * Morgan nods (Morgan) aye * HH nods (HH) She worryin'? (Morgan) No more than normal * HH nods (HH) ((Anything he would want to cover?)) (Morgan) ((no)) (HH) **After they've had some time teaching Varick, they have lunch and then put Varick for his nap as usual. Molly takes a big blanket onto the couch in the middle of the room** (HH) I thought perhaps you might need a nap like Heinzharold and Inga! * Morgan looks at it apprehensively ** You're now known as Molly (Molly) I do not want you exhausting yourself (Morgan) I know but... * Molly nods (Molly) I'll stay with you my love * Morgan signs, sitting down * Molly pulls the blanket over them both (Molly) I can stay awake, if you wish (Morgan) No, blossom, sleep * Molly nods, cuddling up to him (Molly) I will * Molly sings quietly, and he definitely feels drowsy * Morgan grimaces before closing his eyes (Molly) **he starts to dream. He is on the Coral on the way to the monestary, one week into his five weeks away. He hasn't found chance to speak to Catherine til now, but with his letter to ensure Molly and his child are provided for written and in his pocket, he makes his way to her cabin ** You're now known as Catherine * Morgan knocks on the doorframe (Catherine) Come * Morgan opens the door (Morgan) A moment of your time? (Catherine) **her cabin has two single beds, a small table and two chairs. She is sat in one, embroidering (Catherine) Of course. Take a seat. * Morgan nods, closing the door and sitting down * Catherine looks at him "what is it?" (Morgan) Molly and I are going to marry (Catherine) You and _Molly_?! She's marrying Curtis Jaeger (Morgan) Not any longer (Catherine) Why? They seemed like a good pair (Morgan) We have grown close and... well, that has become more. * Catherine covers her mouth with her hand "You are in love with Molly! Oh my god!" (Morgan) I am not ready to have that realised yet. (Catherine) I don't understand (Morgan) I was married before.... my wife died, and I am feeling extremely guilty about caring for another. (Catherine) Oh, sorry. Why would you get married if you feel like that? (Morgan) Because its the right thing to do. (Catherine) It sounds like a bad idea (Morgan) I appreciate your concern, but it is what we have both decided (Catherine) What about Jaeger? (Morgan) He will survive. From a social point of view, another would be a better choice anyway (Catherine) She is a bit of a nightmare socially for his parents, isnt she? (Morgan) If you care about those sort of things (Catherine) Does Molly love you? * Morgan nods (Catherine) Aww that's nice (Catherine) When are you getting married? (Morgan) Molly is arranging the betrothal while we are away (Catherine) Molly will stop being my housekeeper then? That is what was going to happen with her becoming Lady Jaeger (Morgan) It rather depends how things are. (Catherine) Are you thinking of leaving? (Morgan) It is something to consider. I wish to keep her safe (Catherine) Might you go back to Eisen? (Morgan) I doubt it. I don't see me being welcome (Catherine) I suppose it won't go well marrying a commoner * Morgan nods (Morgan) quite (Catherine) Is it a good idea though, Morgan? It will make it hard to ever be welcomed home (Morgan) I don't see that will ever be the case anyway (Catherine) It's very sudden. Only a few days again Jaeger was asking for help finding a house and where they could get married on my estate * Morgan nods (Morgan) We have been growing closer for some time (Catherine) Behind Jaeger's back? * Morgan frowns (Morgan) They were wrong for eachother (Catherine) And the two of you are not? (Morgan) I don't believe so (Catherine) I'm very surprised. I had heard there was something going on between you and Eiblinn (Morgan) We were definitely not right for eachother... it was a passing fancy, for us both (Catherine) You are sure this won't happen with Molly? She has been in my service for eighteen months, I wouldn't like her getting hurt or misled (Morgan) I am certain (Catherine) Well, you dont really need my permission, and I believe her parents are dead (Morgan) I know it wasn't me told you that... (Catherine) I think Mary told me that (Morgan) I see (Catherine) Is it incorrect? (Morgan) When we get back I'll look into it * Catherine nods (Catherine) Where are you going to wed? (Morgan) That is to be decided. Soon, though (Catherine) I've never had staff get married before, I hope you will both be happy (Morgan) thank you (Catherine) You must be eager to get back to her * Morgan nods (Morgan) very (Catherine) I would have let you stay behind if you had told me before we left (Morgan) My job is to keep you safe... and I don't trust some of the people that will be there (Catherine) How long ago did you propose? I am still surprised! (Morgan) We agreed upon it a few days ago... (Catherine) It is very new then. Does Jaeger know? (Morgan) He will by now certainly (Catherine) Did he have any idea there were feelings between you and Molly? (Morgan) I don't believe so, no (Catherine) He won't have taken it well (Morgan) Probably not... he's hardly the most mature person I've ever met (Catherine) It sounds like you dont like him (Morgan) I gave you the impression I like some of them? * Catherine laughs "Brother Siegfried and Captain Tsaylur" (Morgan) Not exactly high society... (Catherine) No, but I like them. * Morgan nods (Catherine) Thank you for telling me. Do you need to have an advance on your wages for it? (Morgan) No, I'll manage (Catherine) If you do need it though, that is fine * Morgan nods (Morgan) thank you (Catherine) Is there anything else? (Morgan) No, there is not * Catherine nods (Catherine) We won't linger at the monastery, we will get you back to your wife as soon as possible * Morgan nods (Morgan) thank you (Catherine) I'll see you at dinner * Morgan nods, standing up (Morgan) Thank you for your understanding (Catherine) I'm not sure I really do, but it sounds like you care deeply for each other, and that's what matters * Morgan nods (Morgan) we do * Catherine nods, going back to her embroidery * Morgan heads out of the room, closing the door behind him (Catherine) **he wakes as the door clicks shut** ** You are now disconnected ------------------------------ Logging started for 192.168.1.82:#7thsea on Tuesday, 22 February 2022 11:31:46 Greenwich Mean Time ------------------------------ ** You have joined #7thsea * Molly is still asleep on his shoulder, the blanket over them. He estimates more than forty five minutes have passed. * Morgan watches her for a moment before rousing her (Molly) Mmm? (Morgan) I want to get up blossom * Molly moves "I'm sorry, are you alright?" * Morgan nods, sitting up (Molly) I dreamt we were at the Golden Lantern again. It was nice * Morgan nods (Morgan) good (Molly) Did you dream anything nice? (Morgan) Not really. I dreamed I had to tell Lady Torrington we were to marry... (Molly) From where we had accidentally been intimate in Carleon? * Morgan nods (Molly) Oh dear, was she very cross? (Morgan) I didn't tell her everything (Molly) Oh, that's probably wise. Was she shocked? * Morgan nods (Morgan) aye * Molly looks thoughtful (Molly) Perhaps these dreams are connected (Morgan) you think? (Molly) Telling your father and mother you had wed, telling Catherine you were marrying me... * Morgan nods slightly (Molly) You are worrying about Edward and my Father a great deal? * Morgan nods (Morgan) yes (Molly) I think perhaps that is why (Morgan) Could be (Molly) You are only the messenger, my love (Morgan) Even so... (Molly) The situations are what they are. It would be unfair of them to blame yoy (Molly) You* (Morgan) Yet I suspect they will (Molly) Will you want me to stay out of it? (Morgan) I think Edward may need your support... I think perhaps you are too close to it with your father * Molly nods "I am happy to support Edward. As to my father, I will have come to terms with it more by the time we arrive in Sudlachenburg. Perhaps it will help him that I have worked through some of this" * Morgan nods (Morgan) maybe (Molly) I want to tell him a little about the sparkliness. * Molly watches his reaction * Morgan frowns (Morgan) So he knows Sophie wasn't hurt... * Molly nods (Molly) He should know that Leopold did not choose to rape her, that it was out of their control and neither would have felt at the time that it was something awful. He should know his birth Father was not a rapist. * Morgan nods (Morgan) that makes sense (Molly) He will want to read the letter, and he needs to be given that context * Morgan nods (Morgan) I suppose so. (Molly) You disagree? (Morgan) I don't know that telling him about it is wise... you know he will want to know where it comes from. (Molly) He knows already that I have healing magic. He worked it out when I healed Otto * Morgan nods (Morgan) Yes but... meddling Neiblungen, this sparkling effect... * Molly looks unsure (Molly) It is better he thinks he was conceived when his teenage mother was raped on a dark beach one night? (Morgan) No, of course not * Molly nods (Molly) So we need to tell him a little, but not all? * Morgan nods (Morgan) I think so * Molly nods (Molly) Only a very little... he does not need to think of his daughter so! * Morgan nods (Morgan) quite * Molly smiles, stretching (Molly) I should check the mirrors * Morgan nods (Morgan) good idea * Molly kisses him softly, speaking when she is still close "I'll do that..." (Morgan) alright my love * Molly quickly kisses him again before getting up with a smile. A few minutes later, she comes back with one. "Alice and Florrie are doing well. My father has finally given us the Crest we were looking for." (Morgan) Somewhat redundant now isn't it... * Molly shows him. It is the Rosenkrantz one from the top of the family tree * Morgan nods (Morgan) Thought so (Molly) But confirmation of what we were quite sure of * Morgan nods (Morgan) aye * Molly takes a deep breath, looking at the crest (Molly) It's strange... * Morgan watches her (Molly) It could have been the name I grew up with, or married into, or both * Morgan nods (Molly) Molly Rosenkrantz. Who knows, perhaps I would have had a more interesting first name (Morgan) A more Eisen one, certainly * Molly smiles (Molly) What do you think would have suited? Brumhilde, perhaps? (Morgan) That doesn't suit anyone * Molly giggles (Molly) What else did your parents like... Violet? (Morgan) You are implying I listen to my parents? * Molly bites her lip, smiling (Molly) You do, more than I think you would like to make out, though as always, your code of honour guides you more than their words * Morgan nods (Molly) Should we expect more dreams like this, do you think? (Morgan) I would imagine so * Molly nods (Molly) We should be in Freiburg tomorrow morning, will Edward be at a church, do you think? (Morgan) probably (Molly) Will you come to church at the docks before finding him? (Morgan) If you wish me to * Molly nods, smiling (Molly) I like sharing that with you * Morgan nods (Morgan) It is still not.... easy * Molly sits back beside him (Molly) You do not have to, my love. I can take Varick alone (Morgan) No, I will go... speaking of Varick, though... I think it would be a good idea to send him to Jarvie's with Edward (Molly) When? (Morgan) before you get.... sparkly (Molly) That could be tomorrow, or Monday * Morgan nods (Morgan) it'd mean we don't have to explain it to Edward... (Molly) It would mean he doesn't feel it too! (Morgan) exactly (Molly) I don't think we can narrow it down any further than that. It will make finding time to tell him quite challenging * Morgan nods (Morgan) yes it will (Molly) Should we try to start it, or wait and see? (Morgan) I'm not sure, to be honest * Molly nods (Molly) There are merits to both (Morgan) indeed there are * Molly thinkz (Molly) If we tried to start it first thing, Varick is still here, but it would clear the day for everything else * Morgan nods (Morgan) HeinzHarold wants to try something... * Molly blushes (Molly) Uhh... we know it only works with you (Morgan) He wants to find out if the effects can be lessened if he and Inga.... * Molly watches him (Molly) What do you think of that? (Morgan) It'll work some I think (Molly) I am not sure how it would help? (Morgan) wouldn't help us, no, but it might help reduce the draw others feel... (Molly) Hmm, I suppose so * Molly shrugs (Molly) I suppose we can only wait and see. It is hardly a practical solution to the problem though (Morgan) No, but I don't see any decent alternative (Molly) No... but everyone can't disappear off to be intimate just so they can stand to be around me (Morgan) No, I know * Molly smiles (Molly) We will see what happens then. We will be far too busy to be thinking about Heinzharold, I hope! * Morgan nods (Morgan) indeed (Molly) **When Varick is awake, Claudia, HH and Inga all turn up. Claudia looks to Morgan. (Molly) C: I want to take Molly to keep up her practice and also work on more hand to hand combat. You and Heinzharold want to come with, or stay here? (Morgan) I'll take Varick up on deck, he can learn some more (Molly) **Varick is happy with this, and learns from all those around him. Even the regular crew are happy to be interrupted and asked things. Again, he can see how Varick's confidence has grown since the summer, and since Molly mentioned it this morning he can see how his son's old clothes, the ones he came to them with, are getting shorter and tighter. Soon those remnants of his old life with Alarice and Karsten will be gone too** * Morgan escorts him around, making sure he doesn't get in the way (Molly) **He is very good. For a crew that is compromised mostly of former navy men, the eighty men on the Rose are very good with the little boy and also the women. The only rebuke Morgan has had to give them was to two of them for looking and lingering when Molly was sparkly in September ** You are now disconnected ------------------------------ Logging started for 192.168.1.82:#7thsea on Tuesday, 22 February 2022 15:06:54 Greenwich Mean Time ------------------------------ ** You have joined #7thsea (Molly) [14:44] (Molly) **He is very good. For a crew that is compromised mostly of former navy men, the eighty men on the Rose are very good with the little boy and also the women. The only rebuke Morgan has had to give them was to two of them for looking and lingering when Molly was sparkly in September (Morgan) Shall we go and see how your mama is getting on? (Molly) **Varick agrees with this. Molly is fighting HH when they get there. He is visibly off form, and she seems to have improved a little. * Morgan watches them (Molly) **It's hard to pinpoint what is different. There are no new moves or techniques, but it's a little like how she was before and after they wed, there's more of an ease to it (Molly) **HH runs out of steam before she does, and he brings his sword to Morgan "Our wives 'ave broken me, your turn" * Morgan nods, taking over * Molly smiles, saluting him appropriately, but he can see the mischief there "Your Excellency..." * Morgan does likewise (Morgan) Excellency * Molly stands still, watching him with a little smirk, waiting for him to start * Morgan smiles, closing his eyes and holding his sword behind his back * Molly moves very quietly to rest the tip of her sword to his chest over his heart. It's not too quiet for him to hear * Morgan moves suddenly, slapping the sword sideways before stepping in the opposite direction, bringing his sword up and resting the flat of it against her shoulder * Molly moves closer to him rather than away, watching him with a smile [you are a distraction to me in a way noone else could be] * Morgan smiles, stepping back a few paces before raising his sword (Morgan) Come on then, show me what you can do * Molly shows him a mix of things that she has picked up from all of them. She is definitely better today than even a few days ago. She's not as good as Heinzharold, but she would definitely give Edward a run for his money, particularly with the more sensual style. * Morgan nods, backing up (Morgan) very good * Molly smiles (Molly) I am glad you think so (Molly) C: I would be happy enough having her at my back now. I've seen far worse. * Morgan nods (Morgan) high praise indeed (Molly) V: *he comes to Morgan* Is Mama better because she is more Eisen now? (Morgan) No... she always was a bit Eisen, just no-one knew it (Molly) HH: But now she knows it, see? Makes sense t'me (Morgan) You know thats not how it works (Molly) HH laughs: Mebbie it does, ackshully (Morgan) I've heard weirder I suppose (Molly) HH: Now she knows tha' Eisens are best in th' world with swords, and some of 'er ancestors are Eisen. It's a confidence thing * Morgan shrugs (Morgan) maybe * Molly looks to be thinking about it. Varick wants a turn, so training swords are found so he can participate. It fills their afternoon until Varick is hungry. Whilst HH and Inga are seeing to his meal, Molly is off alone in the bedroom. When he comes to check on her, she is checking out a bruise in her flank, top pulled up and trousers pulled down a little (Morgan) Are you alright? (Molly) Battle injury *she smiles* * Morgan nods * Molly shows him. It looks like she's taken a solid punch or a knee there (Morgan) Knee? * Molly nods (Molly) Didn't guard quick enough * Morgan nods (Molly) It's a little sore, but I am alright * Morgan nods (Morgan) part of the learning process * Molly nods * Molly pokes it (Molly) It will be darker tomorrow * Morgan nods (Molly) Unless you wish me to be rid of it? (Morgan) I have no preference * Molly nods, putting her clothing back in order (Molly) You are happy with my progress? * Morgan nods (Morgan) For Claudia to be happy with you at her back... * Molly smiles (Molly) If I ever have to, chances are I'll be using more than a sword * Morgan nods (Morgan) aye (Molly) But it's nice, isn't it? (Morgan) nice? (Molly) That I can be relied upon now, that I am competent * Morgan nods (Molly) Does it give you comfort? * Morgan nods (Morgan) aye, it does * Molly smiles (Molly) That has been my primary motivator (Morgan) oh? (Molly) Your peace of mind and your faith in me are very important * Morgan nods * Molly comes to him (Molly) And you? Would you trust me at your back now? * Morgan nods * Molly blushes, smiling "That makes me feel proud" (Morgan) i am glad * Molly nods, watching him fondly. She gets interrupted from this by Varick calling for her * Molly gives him a brief smile before going back into the study ** You are now disconnected ------------------------------ Logging started for 192.168.1.82:#7thsea on Tuesday, 22 February 2022 18:08:18 Greenwich Mean Time ------------------------------ ** You have joined #7thsea (Molly) **He's on deck when they set the anchor once it is full dark. These short late autumn days make sailing much more laborious. They stop near Posen, only needing a little more sailing in the morning. That means his discussion with Edward is likely to be tomorrow. Claudia heads over to him, her waiting to start the first watch ** You're now known as Claudia (Claudia) How are you? (Morgan) Apprehensive * Claudia nods (Claudia) Hoping to see him tomorrow early, get it done? * Morgan nods (Morgan) I think so * Claudia nods (Claudia) What do you want me doing? (Morgan) I've no plans for needing you with him ** You are now disconnected (Connection timed out) ------------------------------ Logging started for 192.168.1.82:#7thsea on Tuesday, 22 February 2022 19:53:44 Greenwich Mean Time ------------------------------ ** You have joined #7thsea (Claudia) Keep me updated on whether you can spare us a night (Morgan) Damn, I'd forgotten. * Claudia shrugs "If you can't manage it, don't worry about it" (Morgan) No, we'll manage it (Claudia) Thanks (Claudia) Thought about your plans for after Freiburg? (Morgan) As I recall Molly thinks it an idea to go overland and meet the Rose on the south coast (Claudia) Need to go to Sudlachenburg I guess. Then Graben, if the wedding is still on * Morgan nods (Claudia) Did you decide where you want me? (Morgan) No... I've been rather preoccupied * Claudia nods (Claudia) Got a day or two to decide * Morgan nods (Claudia) Maybe now with the focus moving to Edward we can leave the Rosie stuff behind you * Morgan nods (Morgan) I really hope so... had another one of those nightmares though (Claudia) About Rosie? * Morgan nods ** You are now disconnected (Software caused connection abort) ------------------------------ Logging started for 192.168.1.82:#7thsea on Tuesday, 22 February 2022 20:09:45 Greenwich Mean Time ------------------------------ ** Reconnecting to 192.168.1.82:6667… ** Reconnecting to 192.168.1.82:6667… ** Reconnecting to 192.168.1.82:6667… ** You have joined #7thsea ** logs has joined #7thsea * @Morgan nods (@Morgan) aye (Claudia) Catch them in bed together? (@Morgan) It was going that way (Claudia) She's not that sort of woman (@Morgan) logically, I know that. (Claudia) But...? (@Morgan) in my nightmare, before we know about the blood ties, before there was no attraction... (Claudia) People do get attracted even when they're married though * @Morgan shrugs (Claudia) Did you lose your shit? (@Morgan) Surprisingly, no * Claudia does looks surprised (Claudia) Unex (Claudia) Unexpected * @Morgan nods (Claudia) Noone got hit? (@Morgan) No. I nearly left her there, mind. (Claudia) Can't say I blame ya * @Morgan nods (Claudia) Varick would have been distraught though * @Morgan nods (@Morgan) I know (Claudia) How y'doing about it now? (@Morgan) Still feel like I've been punched in the chest (Claudia) Your dreams are really vivid (@Morgan) Utterly indistinguishable for the most art (Claudia) I only get that with a few, but they're flashbacks really * @Morgan nods (Claudia) Nothing useful or warnings lately? (@Morgan) No, I don't think so * Claudia nods (Claudia) You and Molly are talking this all through, right? You arent bottling it up til you explode? (@Morgan) We spoke some earlier, but I had to get on watch. I don't need to talk about it at the moment * Claudia nods (Claudia) I'd better start mine, back on again at four, and we'll be off at first light * @Morgan nods (@Morgan) I'll leave you to it (Claudia) Have a good night * @Morgan shrugs (@Morgan) we'll see (Claudia) **He has dinner with Molly, Inga and HH, the latter two have to be shooed away at bedtime, neither in a rush like usual, and with the bottle returned to the bookshelf where it belongs. Molly gets him some Drambuie, and they sit on the couch ** You're now known as Molly (Molly) We made good progress today * @Morgan nods (@Morgan) I need to find time for Claudia and Sorgi to have a night off * Molly sips her drink (Molly) That is going to be hard to know until we know what happens with the sparkliness and with Edward * @Morgan nods (@Morgan) I know (Molly) Ideally Koen, yourself and Heinzharold would stay on board that night. * @Morgan nods * Molly sighs (Molly) I don't know. Tomorrow or monday is when we are likely to still be in Freiburg * @Morgan nods (Molly) Perhaps pencil it in for Monday, but it might have to change at the last minute * @Morgan nods (Molly) Did you tell me why it is needed? * @Morgan nods * Molly nods "Alright, liebling" She seems quite content to sit beside him and drink her drink (Molly) I wonder if the nightmare oil will work on Seb * @Morgan sips his drambuie (@Morgan) How are you feeling about your... heritage, now? I saw you thinking about it earlier (Molly) In truth, I don't know. It is still a shock * @Morgan nods (Molly) I will adjust to it. I'm not sure which of it I am finding it hardest to accept (@Morgan) There are many aspects to it? * Molly nods (Molly) George was not my grandfather, Sunnymeade isn't my ancestral home. Leopold was Eckname, and my grandfather. My Father's parents were not married and it wasnt even love. My father is nobility, not a common farmer who became a gentleman. My grandfather was Eisen, so I have Eisen in me. (@Morgan) I disagree (Molly) About which part? (@Morgan) well... are we not Varicks parents? (Molly) Yes... but not his birth parents (@Morgan) But we are his parents... he is our son (Molly) Yes, true (@Morgan) so you are George's granddaughter, and Sunnymeade.... that was your home. (Molly) But I am also Leopold's granddaughter, and Insel is the home of my ancestors * @Morgan nods (@Morgan) It does not take what you knew before from you... it adds to it * Molly nods (Molly) I am working on accepting that * @Morgan nods (Molly) That is what you had to do, to look at me and our marriage as adding, not taking away? * @Morgan nods * Molly nods, sipping her drink (Molly) I never met George. I've never met any of my grandparents * @Morgan nods (Molly) My father will find it much harder (@Morgan) Yes, I think he will * Molly leans her head to his arm (Molly) It will hopefully distract my mother from her meddling * @Morgan nods (@Morgan) do you think she should be there when I tell him? (Molly) Would you wish to hear such emotional, monumental news with me present? (@Morgan) I am not like your father (Molly) No, but now I am curious **she smiles** * @Morgan tilts his head (@Morgan) I'm not sure * Molly nods (Molly) Were tou glad I was not there when you saw Florrie? * @Morgan frowns (@Morgan) I don't know. I just dealt with it as it was * Molly nods (Molly) Alright * Molly sips her drink (Molly) I don't know about my Father. Their relationship has changed since you and I got together. When I was a child, I would have said no, but... * @Morgan nods (@Morgan) It is difficult... (Molly) ...to know what to do? * @Morgan nods (Molly) Perhaps have her nearby. If he needs or wants her she can be fetched. If he prefers to deal with his upset without her seeing, he can have that too **she frowns a little, sipping her drink** (@Morgan) I'm going to have to persuade him to keep the information about the Nieblungen to himself... (Molly) Are we to tell him about them? (@Morgan) He will want to read the letter... * Molly nods "If he knows there was one..." (@Morgan) That will require me... bending the truth... (Molly) Not necessarily (@Morgan) oh? (Molly) I could copy out the letter with certain parts removed * @Morgan nods (@Morgan) How would you explain the effect that caused their intimacy? (Molly) That it seems to be a side effect of using the magic * @Morgan nods slowly (Molly) Is that untrue? (@Morgan) No... no its not * Molly smiles (Molly) That seems quite straightforward * @Morgan nods (@Morgan) makes a change * Molly smiles (Molly) I did wonder if you were going to say that having Eisen in me was not new (@Morgan) It wasn't the time (Molly) And now? *she sips her drink, amused * (@Morgan) well, it isn't new really (Molly) Not since june 27th * @Morgan frowns (@Morgan) you keep track? (Molly) Of? (@Morgan) When we are intimate (Molly) No... I generally have a rough idea, but as that was our wedding day it sticks in mind (@Morgan) ((I've read this wrong. That was when they married, not the current month)) (Molly) ((Yep currently 28th November)) * @Morgan nods (Molly) I know the last time was yesterday morning... and that the stable was August nineteenth, though that is due to it being two days past Varick's birthday and the day before the cast * @Morgan nods (@Morgan) When the cast hit, I was... convinced it was my doing, that I had hurt you (Molly) Oh liebling, no. Why did you not say?! (@Morgan) You were busy (Molly) I am sorry. I would have comforted you if I had known * @Morgan smiles (@Morgan) don't worry on it blossom (Molly) That is why you were so wary about resuming our intimacies? * @Morgan nods (Molly) I had assumed that seeing me in such a state had damaged your desire a little * @Morgan shakes his head (@Morgan) though I was definitely more guarded... I had come so close to losing you, I think I was protecting myself against it (Molly) By making a distance between us and detaching? (@Morgan) by building the walls around myself * Molly nods, sipping her drink (Molly) You went from talking openly about being scared that the bleeding would restart to suddenly very much as if nothing huge had happened and you needed to be off telling the others. * @Morgan frowns, hanging his head * Molly looks at him, stroking his cheek "No... you do not need to feel guilty" (@Morgan) it sounds like it (Molly) Yes, I was upset, and perplexed, and when I reached out to give you the space to come to me with your feelings it seemed as if you did not need me... * @Morgan shakes his head, still looking at the floor (Molly) ... but without that, I would not have confronted my own feelings about _why_ it was troubling me that you could easily move on from the potential loss of me. And without _that_, we would not have ever come onto the same page about not only loving each other _enough_ * @Morgan nods (Molly) It wasn't pleasant, but it was important. And I know I would have gone on for years as I was. * @Morgan nods (Molly) And, if I had, so would you, I think? (@Morgan) Probably, yes (Molly) So I am glad of it, in hindsight. Though I struggle to fathom how you could just close off that way (@Morgan) I don't know I have an answer for you... * Molly nods (Molly) I would suggest it is part and parcel of the academy, and the war, and then the aftermath of the fire. * @Morgan nods (@Morgan) probably (Molly) Life has taught you to hide your emotions, even from yourself. It's very sad. * @Morgan nods (Molly) I hope that maybe one day you will feel less of a need for that with me * @Morgan nods (@Morgan) me too (Molly) But no, the cast was entirely down to the penny royal, and would have happened even if we had continued not to be intimate * @Morgan nods (Molly) It had not occured to me that you would think you were at fault, but now it makes sense. In the stable, that was the first time since exposure to the pennyroyal five days earlier. * @Morgan nods (Molly) That must have been scary * @Morgan nods (@Morgan) it was. * Molly takes his hand (Molly) We got through it together, and we are stronger for it (@Morgan) Yes we are * Molly kisses his knuckles (Molly) We should get you to bed, it could be a tiring day tomorrow * @Morgan nods * Molly smiles, standing up (Molly) As I may need you twice tomorrow, I will refrain from seeking my wifely expectations of my husband's affections for the evening (@Morgan) Probably wise... don't want me walking round like HeinzHarold * Molly giggles (Molly) You would be more stoical about it (@Morgan) well, obviously (Molly) Inga says she had a very enjoyable evening though! * Molly watches for him blushing * @Morgan nods (@Morgan) I figured as much in the ginger way she sat down * Molly laughs (Molly) You really have changed a great deal in that regard (@Morgan) oh? (Molly) You wouldn't have even been able to discuss consumating a marriage between jaeger and I unless it was in the most vague of terms possible * @Morgan nods (@Morgan) possibly because I found the idea of him touching you... unpleasant (Molly) You still do now? (@Morgan) Now I find it disgusting... (Molly) I wouldn't have enjoyed that at all (@Morgan) No (Molly) He would not have been good in bed like you, mon petit chou (@Morgan) I suspect not (Molly) No woman deserves that *she giggles* (@Morgan) No... (@Morgan) well... I can think of one (Molly) Who? (@Morgan) One Lady deBurgh * Molly giggles, taking the lantern towards the bedroom * @Morgan follows her (Molly) She actually went to bed with him _and_ Dau. *she shudders* awful. * @Morgan nods (Molly) Obviously I do not know that for sure, but she live with both of them, so she must have * @Morgan nods (@Morgan) Ive no doubt of it * Molly sets the lantern down (Molly) Although you and I lived together and kept to our own rooms very properly * @Morgan nods (@Morgan) yes we did * Molly smiles "Except in my imagination" * Molly kicks off her shoes "In my imagination all sorts of interesting things occured!" (@Morgan) Somehow... that doesn't surprise me (Molly) But it does not bother you? (@Morgan) no (Molly) I am sure your imagination was absolutely pristine, my love **she starts undoing her dress** (@Morgan) I couldn't say... * @Morgan gets undressed (Molly) Yes, you could * Molly smirks (@Morgan) It would be quite improper (Molly) Between a husband and wife? Not at all * Molly slowly removes her clothing (@Morgan) No, I rather think I'll leave that to your imagination a while longer * Molly pouts (Molly) That is uncharitable of you * @Morgan nods (@Morgan) I know... I'm awful * Molly takes her hair down even slower (Molly) I shall get retaliation (@Morgan) I've no doubt (Molly) Did Heinzharold tell you he and Inga discovered how thin those walls were? * @Morgan nods (Molly) I used to like hearing you tossing and turning, it reminded me you were there and we'd soon be sharing a bed * Molly gets in * @Morgan nods, getting into bed (Molly) And now here we are * Molly smiles (@Morgan) indeed we are * Molly kisses him gently "goodnight my love" (@Morgan) g'night blossom ** Morgan has quit (Quit: Leaving) ** You are now disconnected ------------------------------ Logging started for 192.168.1.82:#7thsea on Wednesday, 23 February 2022 20:19:06 Greenwich Mean Time ------------------------------ ** You have joined #7thsea (Molly) **She sings to him, and he falls asleep. He had intended to go to Heinzharold's house straight away after telling Adalbrecht, but after Verity, he couldn't face it just yet. Nor could he face going back to be an emotional wreck to Dietlinde, he didn't want to look weak to her, ever. Nor could he stay in Die Dauerhaftigkeit. He couldn't go to Otto and Sascha, because they still don't know. His mother's sobbing, and her disappointment in him had been far harder than he expected. (Molly) **He goes to the bank of the Sudlache, walking east along the shore. He manages to hold it together until he knows he is out of anyone's sight before sitting on the driest patch of shingle, pulling up his knees and sobbing like a small boy into his forearms, crying like he hasn't cried since he lost his platoon, and before that since his first kill. (Molly) **The sun has moved by the time he is done, and he has to get a move on. First Heinzharold, then Otto. Dietlinde had suggested she go with him, but Morgan had refused. If Otto was going to say anything that might hurt her gentle heart, Morgan would take that himself and shield his wife from it. (Molly) **At Heinzharold's house, he can already hear the clang of metal in the forge that was Heinzharold Senior's. That man has been dead eight years, which is a great pity because Morgan could really do with talking to him now. There's a tink, tink, tink of hammer on metal ** You're now known as HH * Morgan follows the sound (HH) **He finds his best friend in the outbuilding. He is mucky but glad to see him. He sets a sword in water to cool the forge hot. (HH) "Thought y'd turn up last night, Claudia an' I got drunk in her new 'ome. It was a Shackwarmin' party. (Morgan) I was.... busy * HH grins "Busy, eh?" * Morgan nods, frowning (HH) Too busy f' Claudia an' me?! That even possible? (Morgan) was spendin' the evenin' with my wife * HH laughs "Makes a change fr'm 'being attacked by goblins'" * Morgan looks at him apprehensively (Morgan) I'm serious (HH) Hold on, what? * Morgan nods slightly (HH) You got married. * Morgan nods * HH rubs his dirty hands in his trousers (HH) To Dietlinde? * Morgan nods (HH) Huh. *he looks surprised* * Morgan watches him warily * HH opens his arms "Congratulations, man!" * Morgan exhales explosively, throwing himself into HeinzHarolds embrace * HH hugs him hard (HH) Think yer mad for gettin' married when there's a worlda pretty girls out there, but she's certainly one of the prettiest * Morgan nods (Morgan) She's.... wonderful * HH nods, patting his back (HH) I 'ope you have a long, 'appy life togetherl (Morgan) thank you man * HH lets go, punching him hard in the arm (HH) Kept that fuckin' quiet! * Morgan nods, rubbing his arm (Morgan) had to (HH) Didn' want me as yet best man, eh? (HH) Yer* * HH grins (Morgan) of course I did... couldn't risk it (HH) Didn' want it getting stopped by the Big House? * Morgan nods * HH nods, sitting himself up on a heavy stone table, offering Morgan his flask * Morgan shakes his head (HH) S' now what? (Morgan) Gotta tell Otto * HH nods (HH) Told yer Da? * Morgan nods solemnly (HH) Went badly? * Morgan nods (Morgan) and mother... (HH) Pissed b'cause you did it without their permission, or because she's not noble? (Morgan) both (Morgan) I've disgraced my name, my position... disappointed mother... * HH sighs "brutal." * Morgan nods (HH) They'll come around, once they get to know her properly (Morgan) I hope so (HH) Need t' have a VeisgrafWingWarming Party tonight? (Morgan) I'm not welcome there... I've got a cottage (HH) Cottagewarming then? I'll dig out that old whiskey my Da buried for a special occasion (Morgan) he buried it? * HH nods (HH) Was gonna open it on my weddin' day, but I'm never havin' one, so this seems good * Morgan nods * HH looks towards the main farm entrance "uh oh, here's trouble" * Morgan looks up (HH) **Claudia is heading their way** (Morgan) a shack, you say? * HH nods (HH) It's just one room. She seems 'appy with it (Morgan) Thats the main thing * HH nods ** You're now known as Claudia * Claudia looks to Morgan "where the hell were you last night?" (Morgan) With Dietlinde (Claudia) All night? (Morgan) generally thats what a man and wife do... yes * Claudia glance between them (Claudia) Very funn. Where were you really? * Morgan sighs (Morgan) Four (Claudia) You're shitting me. * Claudia watches him * Morgan shakes his head (Claudia) What the hell? You got married? * Morgan nods (Claudia) We've only been here two minutes! * Morgan shrugs (Claudia) HH: Get the feeling it's been going on a while (Morgan) We've felt this way for a long time * Claudia shrugs "well, if this is what you want..." (Morgan) it is * Claudia nods (Claudia) Congratulations then (Morgan) thank you (Claudia) HH: Shadowfayre is th' day after tomorrow, you both coming? (Morgan) I'd imagine so (Claudia) HH: want us t' walk to Otto's with ya? * Morgan nods (Morgan) I'd appreciate that (Claudia) HH: *he grabs a cloak, and they go* Gonna be a lot of opinions goin' on (Morgan) No doubt (Claudia) We have your back * Morgan nods (Morgan) thank you (Claudia) How do you know she's the one, though? (Morgan) I feel it. (Claudia) HH: 'Ow did y' manage to pull it off? (Morgan) For all their virtues, priests like money (Claudia) You bribed a priest... _you_ bribed a _priest_?! (Morgan) I prefer... persuaded by utilising funds * Claudia snorts (Claudia) He just married you and that was it? All done and dealt with? (Morgan) thats how a wedding works, yes (Claudia) Did not see this coming! * Morgan shrugs (Claudia) HH: Me neither, ackshully. Thought mebbie it was an idle flirtation, then y'd get into a long betrothal with Hapsburg's girl or another lassie like that (Morgan) I suspect thats what my father had planned (Claudia) HH: Wasn' many years ago that y' fancied her (Morgan) No, I know.... (Claudia) What happened? (Morgan) I met Dietlinde... she took my breath away when I first met her (Claudia) Dont think our paths have crossed yet (Claudia) HH: She is stunnin', to be fair to him * Claudia shrugs, looking uncomfortable, perhaps she's jealous somehow? * Morgan watches her a moment (Claudia) As long as he likes her, it's not our business (Morgan) dI do (Claudia) **They continue onwards. The first thing he spots is Grunhelm stood on Otto and Saschas door step. In reality he had arrived here much earlier, but in the dream he is faced with the sheriff as well as his new in-laws (Claudia) **HH groans** changed my mind, _here_ is trouble * Morgan nods (Claudia) Want us to stay? * Morgan shakes his head (Morgan) No, this is mine to deal with * Claudia and HH wish him luck before leaving. At the front door, Grunhelm looks concerned, Sascha and Otto look worried ** You're now known as Otto * Morgan watches them for a moment (Morgan) Otto... * Otto bows, Sascha curtsies. Grunhelm inclines his head (Otto) My Lord. Good morning. *he seems tense* (Morgan) Whats going on? (Otto) My daughter is missing, my Lord. (Morgan) Ah... Grunhelm, you won't be needed. I know where she is (Otto) **Grunhelm just folds his arms, raising an eyebrow** (Morgan) Otto... can we talk? (Otto) Yes, my Lord * Otto lets him in (Otto) **Grunhelm follows, having to stoop under the door. The house is small and very much less fancy even than the cottage. He hasn't been in here, but he has heard enough from Dietlinde to know that her mother is not wealthy but is still house proud * Morgan looks up at Grunhelm (Morgan) I meant in private (Otto) G: I am sure you did. * Morgan watches him for a moment before moving away (Morgan) Dietlinde is safe... she is in our cottage (Otto) Whose cottage, my lord? (Morgan) Ours... mine and hers (Otto) **he looks perplexed* Why do you have a cottage with my daughter? (Morgan) Because she is my wife (Otto) **Grunhelm watches Morgan with very little expression** (Otto) But she is a normal girl, you're a Veisgraf (Morgan) But we are very much in love (Otto) **Sascha hands Morgan a cup of coffee** Is she well and happy? * Morgan takes it, thanking her (Morgan) Yes, she is * Otto looks serious "Has the Graf approved of the match?" (Morgan) No... I am hoping he will come around (Otto) G: *he watches Morgan just like he did that day he and HH got hauled from the tavern* (Otto) I hate to have to ask this, my Lord, but is there a reason for this haste? (Morgan) No, no... Nothing like that. (Otto) S: Do you need any of her things, or can she come back today and collect them? (Morgan) She can do as she pleases, I do not impose restrictions on her... you know I'm not like that (Otto) S: Is there anything you need, any linens or things? (Morgan) I would be grateful... (Otto) S: I'll see what we can spare (Morgan) thank you. It'd be nice to make it more homely (Otto) Congratulations then, my Lord. Please tell her we would like to see her as soon as possible (Morgan) Of course, I'll do that as soon as I get back * Otto and Sascha smile (Otto) S: I will miss her here * Morgan nods (Morgan) I'm sorry to cause you that discomfort but... we needed to be together * Otto smiles "Of course. We will get used to being just the two of us" (Otto) **Grunhelm looks at them: I will bid you good day, as she has been located. Otto, Sascha... **He looks at Morgan** My Lord. * Morgan nods (Otto) **Sascha lets Grunhelm out** Are you going too, my Lord? (Morgan) I better had (Otto) Would you and Dietlinde like to come for dinner? * Morgan nods (Morgan) I'm sure she'd love that, so yes, please * Otto say goodbye on the doorstep with an agreement for them to come at six. They are far more cheerful about this than his own parents. Ahead of him, Grunhelm walks slowly. Morgan could catch him up or hang back * Morgan wanders up beside him ** You're now known as Grunhelm * Grunhelm looks down at him (Grunhelm) Well then. * Morgan nods (Grunhelm) Unexpected. (Morgan) That was the point (Grunhelm) You realise there will be consequences? (Morgan) And I will deal with them * Grunhelm watches him, then nods (Grunhelm) You're not a little rabbit now. (Morgan) No... I think that has long passed * Grunhelm nods "Sometimes you have to stand on your own two feet. You get extra freedom to choose, but extra weight of making errors" * Morgan nods * Grunhelm walks along, offering no further wisdom * Morgan peels off and heads towards his cottage (Grunhelm) **The moment his gaze hits the cottage, he wakes up** * Morgan rubs his face, getting his bearings ** You're now known as Molly * Molly 's bottom is the only thing in contact with him (Molly) **It feels like it is around half after three** * Morgan turns, curling up behind her * Molly murmurs "Okay?" (Morgan) think so * Molly finds his hand, wrapping his arm round her and laying hers on top (Molly) Talk? (Morgan) No, I'm fine (Molly) Mmm okay. Stay with me? (Morgan) mmhmmm * Molly snuggles back to him, quickly asleep again * Morgan tries to settle back down (Molly) **Even the darkness where his hands are over his eyes is yellow-toned as he enters her dreams (Molly) "Little point covering your eyes, Hockridge, you've already seen a part of me that even my maids do not! * Morgan nods, moving his hands (Molly) **They are at a lake with trees around it. It's not very big, but seems very secluded. Xantha and Aurora are tied to a tree. Molly is unbuttoning the jacket of her riding habit * Morgan looks at his horse for a moment (Molly) With my Father away at Court and my being left here on this island, _again_, I rather think I am entitled to swim as I wish (Molly) **Dream Xantha watches him, making snickering noise** * Morgan nods (Morgan) I'd say so (Molly) He's looking for a new Freiarrin, you know? (Morgan) oh really? * Molly takes off the jacket, folding it neatly and putting it down (Molly) With my brothers wed, and his patience for finding me a noble husband who finds me pretty, or tolerable, dwindling, his attentions have turned to finding a wife who might be a positive influence upon me **she starts unbuttoning the waist band of her skirt (Morgan) Makes a sort of sense * Molly takes off her skirt, letting it drop to the ground (Molly) He has been aline quite some years now (Molly) Alone* * Morgan nods (Molly) He won't be marrying for love, like with my mother. Not after all the trouble of her being a commoner * Morgan watches her sidelong (Morgan) No, that causes issues * Molly folds the skirt neatly * Molly nods "Impractical. But as my grandfather had already done it, the worst of the disapproval hit him" * Morgan nods (Morgan) remind me of his name? * Molly starts lifting the shift (Molly) I am going to soon be naked and that is what is on your mind? Unflattering, Hockridge. (Morgan) it'll get stuck in my head, thats all (Molly) My grandfather was named Leopold, though everyone called him Leo * Morgan nods (Morgan) thats right * Molly slowly removes the rest of her shift, completely nude as she said. She has a birthmark on the centre of her torso just beneath her breasts. It looks like an uneven heart shape (Molly) I know it is. * Morgan nods (Morgan) of course * Molly watches him a moment, not looking at all ashamed of being completely undressed (Molly) Is there anything else you wish to ask of me? * Morgan shakes his head (Morgan) Nothing comes to mind * Molly shrugs, getting into the lake. She swims with confidence, like someone who learnt as a child. Ten minutes pass like this before she shouts "Aren't you coming in, Hockridge?" (Morgan) I suppose it'd be rude to refuse (Molly) Unless you were waiting to get your hands upon me when I get out, yes * Morgan smiles, shedding his clothes (Morgan) the thought had occurred * Molly stands, watching him as he does, the water just reaching that birthmark, and the bare skin of her breasts shiny in the sunshine (Molly) Have you ever made love in the water? (Morgan) I cant say I have * Molly smiles (Molly) Have you ever made love anywhere daring? (Morgan) I could ask the same of you (Molly) You could, but as I have only done it with you, you know the answer already * Morgan nods, smiling slightly (Molly) I could lie, if it would make you feel less embarrassed! * Morgan shrugs, floating on his back * Molly looks thoughtful "I have slid beneath a table to pleasure a lover with my mouth whilst he was playing poker with his friends..." (Morgan) brave (Molly) Also, not true. * Morgan laughs (Molly) I have made love in my Father's bed whilst he was away at court... (Morgan) thats later isn't it? * Molly nods (Molly) What about you? * Morgan scratches his nose (Morgan) under the stars... in a stable... * Molly laughs "A groomsman fucking in a stable... that's hardly unexpected!" (Morgan) true enough (Molly) I have been bound naked to the mast of a pirate ship... (Morgan) interesting * Molly watches him with amusement (Molly) Tell me another, either truthful or not (Morgan) I've been stroked while sat in a public tap room * Molly watches him (Molly) I actually think you are being truthful! * Morgan nods (Molly) I own a godemiche... do you know what that is? * Morgan shakes his head (Molly) It is wood, sculpted in the shape of an erect cock, used for self-pleasure. It is sometimes called a Widow's Comfort (Morgan) now that I've heard of * Molly nods "I have one" (Morgan) oh really? * Molly nods, splashing him "It's not as big as you, Hockridge" (Morgan) I am pleased to hear that * Molly laughs (Molly) It has been called your name though (Morgan) oh? * Molly splashes him again (Molly) A few times, in fact (Molly) **The dawn watch chimes one from the shore where his clothes are** (Molly) Once * * Morgan smiles before trying to wake up (Molly) **He manages it. They haven't changed positions** ** You are now disconnected