Miranda O'Malley: Well, this very much appears to be my lucky day... One thorn in me side nicely removed. I wonder who I should thank...
Carver (to Miranda O'Malley): Hello, Captain O'Malley. We hope we're finding you well, ma'am.
Miranda O'Malley (to Carver): Oh... young Mister Carver. This is quite unexpected.
Carver (to Miranda O'Malley): Is it, ma'am? We hope we didn't startle you. We were just wondering what you were intending to do about young Captain Potter, ma'am.
Miranda O'Malley (to Carver): Well, that is a very good question, me boyo. Your Mistress had a plan to exact revenge on him, but sadly I wasn't privy to it. Now, I'm just going to have to wait until me Mam tells me what she wants us to do, I suspect.
Carver (to Miranda O'Malley): Well, ma'am, our current employer doesn't want us playing with Captain Potter. The best laid plans, ma'am... But, he's never far from our mind. And should you need any help with him, ma'am, we'd be most pleased to oblige.
Miranda O'Malley (to Carver): Your current employer? You certainly didn't waste any time... I will definitely let you know if we have need of your services.
Carver (to Miranda O'Malley): No, ma'am, we didn't. You see, it became very clear very quickly we were going to need new employment and sleeping quarters.
Miranda O'Malley (to Carver): You know, if you're ever looking for other employment, you should contact Drake... You two would get along like a house on fire. Quite the little pragmatist, aren't you? Well, best of luck to you. I need to go and check on the cargo being loaded on my ship
Carver (to Miranda O'Malley): We will keep that in mind, ma'am. Thank you for the tip. We should really get back as well. The body of my handler will have been discovered by now, we're afraid. We look forward to working with you, ma'am. You are very interesting to us.
Miranda O'Malley (to Carver): Oh, that's... nice. Thank you, me boyo... you too.
Carver (to Miranda O'Malley): Have a very nice day, Captain O'Malley.
Miranda O'Malley: That boy gives me the creeps.
An hour later:
Poppy (to Mouse): Hey Miss Mouse, I was just calling to tell you that apparently Hiiri has been taken care of, so everyone's safe.
Mouse (to Poppy): Oh? Wow... That's great! I'm glad to hear it. Is everyone okay? How come you're calling & not Vincent? He's not hurt is he?
Poppy (to Mouse): No, no... He's fine, he's still asleep, honey. It just dawned on me that we hadn't told you.
Mouse (to Poppy): Well, that's good. How's Victor? Did he go home already then?
Poppy (to Mouse): Yes, he went home yesterday, honey... I've got to go, I've got some errands to run, but I just wanted to let you know.
Mouse (to Poppy): Well, that's a shame, I would have liked to say goodbye to him... I'll talk to you later.
A couple hours later:
Victor: Oof! Oh. Uh... OK. Uh, wow. That worked. And kinda hurt. Ouch. (to Mouse) Hi, Aunt Mou... Um, I mean, Mouse.
Mouse (to Victor): Oh hi Victor, I thought you had gone home.
Victor (to Mouse): I did. I, uh, popped back in to let Mom and Dad know I didn't Marty McFly myself into non-existence or anything of the sort.
Mouse (to Victor): Heehee, you couldn't stay away, could you?
Victor (to Mouse): Heh. Well, I didn't get to say goodbye to my favorite aunt either.
Mouse (to Victor): Awww, you remind me of your dad. So, everything is okay back in your time? Really, you're not just saying that?
Victor (to Mouse): Well, I'm in serious shit with my parents, and things are...different. Persephone doesn't live with us, for one. Which I guess I should have expected since her parents are alive now. It's strange. I can remember the way things were before, AND the way things are now. It's like, both realities are living in my head. It's a bit disconcerting. It makes me dizzy.
Mouse (to Victor): I can only imagine... I remember what my brain felt like when I was trapped in Britannia for 4 months, I can imagine it's a bit worse than that. Would you like some coffee or tea? Or are you heading right back?
Victor (to Mouse): I should head back. As EVERYONE keep reminding me, the more I come back here... the greater the chances I will severely distort the time-stream. I've probably done too much already. Do you want to know the weirdest part? I'm pretty sure Mom and Dad are older. I swear Dad has less hair than he did before.
Mouse (to Victor): Oh? Well, that is weird... Did they find out about you? Maybe, they wait to have a kid later than they did the first time.
Victor (to Mouse): It could be. Heh. Or it could be they just look a lot older to me now that I've met them as kids. I should get back. Would you let them know that I'm OK for me, please?
Mouse (to Victor): Of course, I'll let them know. Well, it was wonderful to meet you, Victor. Give me a hug before you go.
Victor (to Mouse): Of course! Please pass along my regards to Eep. Oh! And if you can remember, in the future... I would VERY much appreciate it if you could convince my parents to forgive me sooner rather than later. Heh. Goodbye!
Mouse (to Victor): Heehee, will do! (to Poppy & Vincent) Hey kids! I've got a message from Victor for you guys. Everything is fine back home, he didn't Marty McFly himself out of existence. So, yay!
Vincent (to Mouse): It hasn't even been 24 hours, and he's ALREADY popping back in for a visit? Good heavens...
Mouse (to Vincent): He said he just wanted to say goodbye to his favorite aunt... He's a chip off the old block.
Vincent (to Mouse): Of course he is. God... We are going to be in so much trouble when we're older.
Mouse (to Vincent): Well, maybe, you should write your future self a letter. :-p
Vincent (to Mouse): "Dear Future Vincent, We're sorry. Sincerely, your genes."
Mouse (to Vincent): I was thinking more along the lines of "Dear Future Vincent, remember all the stupid stuff you did when you were younger, well, this is probably revenge for all of that. Sincerely, younger you"
Vincent (to Mouse): Ha ha ha! Well... It's probably no less than I deserve. Oh God! I'll bet he thinks thing through about as much as I do... Shit.
Mouse (to Vincent): Well, hopefully, he inherited somethings from his mother.
Vincent (to Mouse): Heh, well, he got a double helping of good-looks, so I'm hoping he got her smarts.
Mouse (to Vincent): Wow, little brother, you're certainly taking this much better than I thought you would... I mean, just a few short days ago you were freaked out because you thought Poppy was pregnant & now, you actually sound excited about the prospect.
Vincent (to Mouse): Don't worry. I'm sure I'll have an epic meltdown sooner or later. Part of the reason I was terrified Poppy might be preggers was because I was pretty sure I'd make a terrible father. But, Victor seemed... Well, he seemed OK, didn't he? Hee. Plus, he's from the future, so I don't exactly have to worry about severely screwing up a kid RIGHT THIS SECOND.
Mouse (to Vincent): Sweetie, he seemed more than okay... I always knew you'd be a good dad. :-)
Vincent (to Mouse): Oh. Heh. Well, thank you, hun. I wasn't so sure. But, let's hope so.
Mouse (to Vincent): Oh man, I should have asked Victor if he had any cousins. Curses! :-p
Vincent (to Mouse): Oh? Why is that, sister dearest? Are you hoping for some bouncing bundles of joy yourself?
Mouse (to Vincent): Yes... No... Maybe... He did say something about Persephone not living with you guys now that her parents were alive... Do I even want to know what he was referring to?
Vincent (to Mouse): Mmm. Changing the subject, are we? Alright. Don't think I've forgotten, missy! -P According to Victor, the reason he came back to warn us is because Hiiri decided to make her disagreement with us personal. She targeted Ripper and Poppy's brother Bernard and his wife.
Mouse (to Vincent): Oh well, that makes me even happier that Hiiri is out of the picture... I'd miss Jacob.
Vincent (to Mouse): Me too. And the idea of something happening to Poppy's family breaks my heart. They're good folks. Hee hee. Even if Bernard DOES threaten to strangle me every chance he gets.
Mouse (to Vincent): Heehee... You do seem to bring that out in people, little brother. :-P
Vincent (to Mouse): Good heavens, don't I know it? Anyhoo, thanks for letting me know my time-traveling son from an alternate dimension still exists in the future. :-P I should let the Professor know that it should be safe for him to go back to Britannia now and let Poppy know Victor is OK.
Mouse (to Vincent): Heehee... Okay, take care, little brother. Don't be a stranger!
Vincent (to Mouse): I won't, older sister o' mine. Love you, sweetie.
Mouse (to Vincent): Love you, too!
A short time later:
Margaux Dvorak (to Poppy): Poppy, you are going to want to get your bustle back to Britannia, asap.
Poppy (to Margaux Dvorak): Margaux, is that you? I thought you were on assignment in Qin...
Margaux Dvorak (to Poppy): I was... But, things got ugly and I had to head back. Headquarters has been trying to get in touch with you since yesterday but there's been a strange virus infecting the communication systems, ever since that ship exploded at the docks.
Poppy (to Margaux Dvorak): Oh? That's not good. Why does Mangrove want me back there? He wasn't too happy the last time I spoke to him. I believe he called me a 'troublemaking pain in the arse'.
Margaux Dvorak (to Poppy): HAHA! He said that? Well, it's not far from the truth, sugar, but he's worried that CLANNG is going to make a play for something while we're incapacitated so he wants all hands on deck until the system can be rebooted. Are you available, sweetie, or do you need to check your schedule?
Poppy (to Margaux Dvorak): Oh, Margaux, how I've missed you... I'll be there as soon as I can.
Margaux Dvorak (to Poppy): Actually, can I come and get you? I've been dying to try this new portal generator that R&D came up with...
Poppy (to Margaux Dvorak): Oh sure... I guess so, honey. I'm sending you the coordinates you'll need.
Margaux Dvorak (to Poppy): Perfect! I'll hopefully see you shortly, poptart.
Poppy (to Margaux Dvorak): You know, I really hate that nickname, honey...
Vincent (to Ripper): Hey, Professor! I have some good news for you.
Ripper (to Vincent): Oh really?
Vincent (to Ripper): Hiiri is, well, not dead since she was a robot and not really alive, but she's gone. That should make crossing over MUCH safer. I mean, still be careful, but you don't have any crazy automatons gunning for you any longer.
Ripper (to Vincent): Oh, that IS good news. I sent Magdalena two dozen roses the other day to apologize & she sent them all back...so that should be fun. Can I ask what happened or is it a secret?
Vincent (to Ripper): To Hiiri? Well, it looks like she got on the wrong side of CLANNG. They dropped a safe on her. I'm not even kidding.
Ripper (to Vincent): HAHAHA! Wait... you're not kidding, are you? Well, that's unexpected & hilarious.
Vincent (to Ripper): Well, it's one less thing I have to worry about. Though, I don't like the idea of owing CLANNG anything. Anyway, I'm sorry for any trouble that you might have with Magdalena. But believe me, it's better than the alternative. Next time I'm in Padgett's I'll reassure her it was entirely my fault. :-P
Ripper (to Vincent): Well then, I will owe you a drink... Actually, I owe you two for the warning. I'm going to crossover now & see if I can smooth things over with her. I have a feeling I owe you more than that, but I'm not going to pry, Captain.
Vincent (to Ripper): BELIEVE ME, you probably don't want to know. And really, Victor deserves thanks for the warning, but I'll be happy to accept a drink on his behalf. :-P
Ripper (to Vincent): Oh? I'd be happy to tell him thank you. He's definitely a cutie... I mean, WAY TOO young for me, he makes you seem aged. Totally In a good way, I mean... Wow, just shoot me, now...
Vincent (to Ripper): Ha ha ha! Aged? MOI? Shall I hike up my pants and get myself an early bird special at a buffet now? :-P
Ripper (to Vincent): God, I'm sorry... I've spent all day Sunday over at Robert & Wanda's... apparently, she's rubbing off on me. Now, I owe you a fourth beer. :-P
Vincent (to Ripper): Hee hee. I'll take you up on it sometime. And that's when I'll press you for what you meant by "aged." :-P Have a good time on the other side, Professor. Be careful. Hiiri's not around anymore, but... well, you know.
Ripper (to Vincent): Heh. Will do, Captain... Um, when I get back do you maybe want to catch dinner & a movie with me?
Vincent (to Ripper): Sure. God knows I could use a regular night after all the... Oh. Wait. Did you mean as friends, or did you mean like on a date?
Ripper (to Vincent): Oh... Well, I meant on a date, but it can be just as friends.
Vincent (to Ripper): Ah. Oh. Sorry, Professor, but it would have to be as friends. Heh. Poppy and I are seeing each other.
Ripper (to Vincent): Oh, you are? That's great, I was wondering about that, actually. Friends is totally fine. And, totally ignore the date thing, I was kidding, just wanted to see if you'd tell me about Poppy or not.
Vincent (to Ripper): Hee hee. You could have tried just asking, you know. For future reference, it's FAR less awkward. :-P
Ripper (to Vincent): Yes, but you've completely sidestepped the issue in the past, so I figured an awkward approach might be the way to go. And, speaking of sidestep, I'm at the portal, so I'm going to crossover. I'll see you later, Captain!
Vincent (to Ripper): Later, tater! Heh. Give me a call when you get back and we'll see about sorting out those drinks you owe me.
Ripper (to Vincent): Will do!
Vincent (to Ripper): Have fun, Professor!
An hour or so later:
Poppy (to Margaux Dvorak): Oh, you made it one piece, honey!
Margaux Dvorak (to Poppy): Yes... Navigating in this town is so incredibly disconcerting. It's been awhile since I crossed over. Give me a hug, poptart!
Poppy (to Margaux Dvorak): God, honey... Really must you insist on calling me that?
Margaux Dvorak (to Poppy): What? It's funny & incredibly fitting... Wow. This is a very nice place, I can see why you want to live on this side.
Poppy (to Margaux Dvorak): Thank you, honey... Should we go, now?
Margaux Dvorak (to Poppy): Actually, while I was crossing over, I got a message, apparently they got the virus isolated, so no need for you to come back but, I wasn't going to miss the opportunity to visit you.
Vincent (to Poppy): Hey, lover. What have you been doing with yourself all afternoon?
Poppy (to Vincent): Hi honey... I want to introduce you to our visitor, this is Margaux Dvorak, my first partner & friend. Apparently, there was some trouble at ISS yesterday afternoon after a ship exploded & they were worried about an attack from CLANNG... Margaux was just informing me that as she was crossing over, they got it sorted out.
Margaux Dvorak (to Vincent): Well, hello handsome, I had no idea that the little poptart had gotten herself a beaux. That is absolutely adorable.
Vincent (to Margaux Dvorak): Ah. Very nice to meet you Margaux. As always, it appears Poppy has excellent taste in friends.
Margaux Dvorak (to Vincent): Oh, listen to that... You are a smooth one, sugar.
Vincent (to Margaux Dvorak): Heh. I've been accused of being far worse things, hun.
Margaux Dvorak (to Vincent & Poppy): Well, I won't take up more of your time, it looks like your young man has something important to tell you. So, Poppy my love, give me a squeeze. Come & visit me when you're in New London, you know the address. (to Vincent) And, it was lovely to meet you... You know, if things don't work out with her, give me a call. ;-)
Vincent (to Margaux Dvorak): Oh my. Well, it was certainly... interesting meeting you, Margaux.
Poppy (to Margaux Dvorak): Bye, Margaux! I'm glad you're back from... your trip. I'll come visit you soon, I promise. (to Vincent) So, uh, that was the whirlwind known as Margaux... Sorry, about that, I probably should have warned you, lover. I'm not even sure there was an emergency, I think she just wanted an excuse to come & spy on me. She's been away in Qin for the past year or so. She left right before I went into stasis.
Vincent (to Poppy): Sorry to burst in and call you "lover" in front of her, hun. I hope I didn't cause you any trouble.
Poppy (to Vincent): She's just going to tease me mercilessly later, which is why she gave you her card... It was a test. And, I like it when you call me lover or any term of endearment... It'll be okay. So, did you have something important to tell me?
Vincent (to Poppy): I have some good news, hun. Um, your friend didn't bug our apartment did she? Not that I don't trust spies, hun, but... Well, spies.
Poppy (to Vincent): Heehee, I didn't give her the opportunity, honey... :-P It's safe to talk in here. Plus, Percy made this place pretty much bugproof when he lived here, so we're good.
Vincent (to Poppy): Hee hee. Well, aren't you two smartie-pants? I got a call from Mouse. Apparently Victor paid his "favorite aunt" a visit. He wanted to let us know he's fine.
Poppy (to Vincent): Oh well, that's good news. I know, it's silly, but I was actually worried about him.
Vincent (to Poppy): Heh. I was too, honestly.
Poppy (to Vincent): So... How do really feel about this future knowledge, honey? I mean, honestly...
Vincent (to Poppy): Oh. Well... Um, I'm fine, hun. I mean... I hate to admit it, but I'm actually kind of chuffed about how awesome our kid it. That, uh, that isn't weird, is it?
Poppy (to Vincent): Heehee, no I don't think it's weird at all... I was actually thinking the same thing. :-) I was worried that it was going to scare you off, though.
Vincent (to Poppy): Oh. Heh. No. It doesn't scare you off either, hun?
Poppy (to Vincent): No, not really... I actually feel more comfortable, strangely enough.
Vincent (to Poppy): Does it? Why is that?
Poppy (to Vincent): I don't know, honey... Well, I've been trained to always look for an exit strategy, have a contingency plan, not to get emotionally involved... And, as much as I love you, there's a small part of me that was waiting for the other shoe to drop. And, I guess now that I know we last, I can relax a bit more.
Vincent (to Poppy): Heh. You're not getting rid of me that easily, hun. Sorry. :-P
Poppy (to Vincent): Heh. I don't actually want to get rid of you, lover.
Vincent (to Poppy): Well, I'm glad to hear that.
Poppy (to Vincent): Are you hungry, honey? Because, I've got dinner just about ready.
Vincent (to Poppy): Hun, I am STARVING. What are you making?
Poppy (to Vincent): Nothing fancy, honey... Pasta Puttanesca, garlic bread & a salad.
Vincent (to Poppy): Hmmmm, which just happens--coincidentally--to be one of my faves. Heh. Need any help, hun?
Poppy (to Vincent): If you could check on the pasta, that would be lovely. I'm just finishing up on the salad. Heh. Is it one of your favorites because you like it or because of the name, honey? :-P
Vincent (to Poppy): A little of column A and a little of column B. :-P Pasta looks about done, hun.
Poppy (to Vincent): You have perfect timing, lover... as always! The garlic bread should be done, the sauce is nice and hot. Voila!
Vincent (to Poppy): I'm nothing if not lucky. It smells divine, loved one! What else do you need me to do?
Poppy (to Vincent): Could you pick out some wine & maybe grab some plates?
Vincent (to Poppy): Done and done.
Poppy (to Vincent): You are wonderful, lover... Oh, I almost forgot, there was mail for you. I put it on the counter, there looked like there was a card or a letter.
Vincent (to Poppy): Oh? Really? I wonder what that is about? Who sent it?
Poppy (to Vincent): I don't know, the handwriting was scrawly.
Vincent (to Poppy): One sure way to find out… Well. That was... Annoying.
Poppy (to Vincent): Oh? What was it, honey?
Vincent (to Poppy): A letter from my dad. Not signed, of course, because then I might be able to go to the press. Here. Read it for yourself.
Poppy (to Vincent): Oh alright... Wow, honey, I can see why you're annoyed. I'm sorry, apparently this has been the week for father drama...
Vincent (to Poppy): Heh. It's alright, lover. Honestly? It's almost funny in a way. After everything that happened, his only comment is that he hopes I find my way back to the light of God? Fuck him. Fuck him soundly. The card picturing a good Christian girl hugging her dog in a field of flowers was a nice touch.
Poppy (to Vincent): Awww, forget about it, honey... I'm sorry I mentioned it, I should have waited until after dinner or taken a peek first.
Vincent (to Poppy): Oh, hun. Don't worry about it. Heh. It's not your fault my family is full of assholes. Besides... It doesn't matter. You and I have seen proof that despite my jackass family, I'm not a horrible, asshole dad. Honestly, I hope rehab sticks for my dad this time. And I also hope he never, ever contacts me again.
Poppy (to Vincent): Well, on the plus side, the card was forwarded, so they clearly don't know our address... And, if you'd like I'm sure I can figure out how to make you somewhat invisible for them to find you... I mean, we do that stuff all the time for work, but it's just different technology so it might take me a bit of research or I could get Percy to help. honey.
Vincent (to Poppy): Ha ha ha! Don't worry about it, hun. I know that I've been a pile of angst about those who share my biology lately... But honestly? If doesn't bother me nearly as much as it used to. Don't worry about it.
Poppy (to Vincent): Alright, honey, but if you change your mind, all you have to do is ask.
Vincent (to Poppy): I know, lover. And thank you. I appreciate you looking out for me.
Poppy (to Vincent): Heehee... I just had a ridiculous thought... We should totally send your family one of those photograph Christmas cards with two of us on it kissing & it says something like "Merry Christmas! Oh, and by the way, I'm dating a girl." Sorry... it's probably a terrible idea, but it made me giggle, honey.
Vincent (to Poppy): Ha ha ha! Hun, that sounds like an AMAZING idea. But only if I'm wearing a dress in the picture. :-P
Poppy (to Vincent): Matching ones would be best I think, honey. :-P
Vincent (to Poppy): Ooo! I like it! Maybe we could get all our friends to pose in the picture with us. All in matching dresses. :-P
Poppy (to Vincent): Heehee, I don't know if Sir Grumps-a-lot would go along with it, honey. Though, I bet if we told him Mouse would think it's hot, he'd probably do it... :-P
Vincent (to Poppy): Somehow, I think if we told him it was to fuck with my father, he might at that. From what Mouse has said, he's been more upset about this whole media blitz thing my father has been launching than she has. Hee hee hee. Or we could just tell him Mouse would think it's hot.
Poppy (to Vincent): Heehee, either way, we'll probably get to see him in a dress, honey... Which both fascinates & terrifies me. :-P
Vincent (to Poppy): Somehow, I think it will be a thing horrible to behold. :-P Oh, don't look at me like that. OK, something both horrible and sexy to behold. :-P
Poppy (to Vincent): You are sexy to behold... Heehee... And, this wine has gone straight to my head.
Vincent (to Poppy): If it causes you to make statements like that, I don't mind in the slightest. "Sexy to behold", am I? Really? Tell me more.
Poppy (to Vincent): Heehee, as the future mother of your children, I think I can safely say that when I look at you, I think "I would totally hit that". :-P Wait... is that how the saying goes? It sounds weird.
Vincent (to Poppy): Hee hee hee. Yes, that's how the expression goes. Sometimes, folks add, "I'd hit that like the fist of an angry god." So, you'd hit this like an angry god, would you? ;-}
Poppy (to Vincent): Hmmm, I'd have to say yes, lover.
Vincent (to Poppy): Hee hee hee. Well. I have nothing to day to that. Except, maybe... Prove it. ;-}
Poppy (to Vincent): Oh my... I was going to tidy up the kitchen, but challenge accepted.
Vincent (to Poppy): Well, the dishes can always wait until tomo...
Carver (to Miranda O'Malley): Hello, Captain O'Malley. We hope we're finding you well, ma'am.
Miranda O'Malley (to Carver): Oh... young Mister Carver. This is quite unexpected.
Carver (to Miranda O'Malley): Is it, ma'am? We hope we didn't startle you. We were just wondering what you were intending to do about young Captain Potter, ma'am.
Miranda O'Malley (to Carver): Well, that is a very good question, me boyo. Your Mistress had a plan to exact revenge on him, but sadly I wasn't privy to it. Now, I'm just going to have to wait until me Mam tells me what she wants us to do, I suspect.
Carver (to Miranda O'Malley): Well, ma'am, our current employer doesn't want us playing with Captain Potter. The best laid plans, ma'am... But, he's never far from our mind. And should you need any help with him, ma'am, we'd be most pleased to oblige.
Miranda O'Malley (to Carver): Your current employer? You certainly didn't waste any time... I will definitely let you know if we have need of your services.
Carver (to Miranda O'Malley): No, ma'am, we didn't. You see, it became very clear very quickly we were going to need new employment and sleeping quarters.
Miranda O'Malley (to Carver): You know, if you're ever looking for other employment, you should contact Drake... You two would get along like a house on fire. Quite the little pragmatist, aren't you? Well, best of luck to you. I need to go and check on the cargo being loaded on my ship
Carver (to Miranda O'Malley): We will keep that in mind, ma'am. Thank you for the tip. We should really get back as well. The body of my handler will have been discovered by now, we're afraid. We look forward to working with you, ma'am. You are very interesting to us.
Miranda O'Malley (to Carver): Oh, that's... nice. Thank you, me boyo... you too.
Carver (to Miranda O'Malley): Have a very nice day, Captain O'Malley.
Miranda O'Malley: That boy gives me the creeps.
An hour later:
Poppy (to Mouse): Hey Miss Mouse, I was just calling to tell you that apparently Hiiri has been taken care of, so everyone's safe.
Mouse (to Poppy): Oh? Wow... That's great! I'm glad to hear it. Is everyone okay? How come you're calling & not Vincent? He's not hurt is he?
Poppy (to Mouse): No, no... He's fine, he's still asleep, honey. It just dawned on me that we hadn't told you.
Mouse (to Poppy): Well, that's good. How's Victor? Did he go home already then?
Poppy (to Mouse): Yes, he went home yesterday, honey... I've got to go, I've got some errands to run, but I just wanted to let you know.
Mouse (to Poppy): Well, that's a shame, I would have liked to say goodbye to him... I'll talk to you later.
A couple hours later:
Victor: Oof! Oh. Uh... OK. Uh, wow. That worked. And kinda hurt. Ouch. (to Mouse) Hi, Aunt Mou... Um, I mean, Mouse.
Mouse (to Victor): Oh hi Victor, I thought you had gone home.
Victor (to Mouse): I did. I, uh, popped back in to let Mom and Dad know I didn't Marty McFly myself into non-existence or anything of the sort.
Mouse (to Victor): Heehee, you couldn't stay away, could you?
Victor (to Mouse): Heh. Well, I didn't get to say goodbye to my favorite aunt either.
Mouse (to Victor): Awww, you remind me of your dad. So, everything is okay back in your time? Really, you're not just saying that?
Victor (to Mouse): Well, I'm in serious shit with my parents, and things are...different. Persephone doesn't live with us, for one. Which I guess I should have expected since her parents are alive now. It's strange. I can remember the way things were before, AND the way things are now. It's like, both realities are living in my head. It's a bit disconcerting. It makes me dizzy.
Mouse (to Victor): I can only imagine... I remember what my brain felt like when I was trapped in Britannia for 4 months, I can imagine it's a bit worse than that. Would you like some coffee or tea? Or are you heading right back?
Victor (to Mouse): I should head back. As EVERYONE keep reminding me, the more I come back here... the greater the chances I will severely distort the time-stream. I've probably done too much already. Do you want to know the weirdest part? I'm pretty sure Mom and Dad are older. I swear Dad has less hair than he did before.
Mouse (to Victor): Oh? Well, that is weird... Did they find out about you? Maybe, they wait to have a kid later than they did the first time.
Victor (to Mouse): It could be. Heh. Or it could be they just look a lot older to me now that I've met them as kids. I should get back. Would you let them know that I'm OK for me, please?
Mouse (to Victor): Of course, I'll let them know. Well, it was wonderful to meet you, Victor. Give me a hug before you go.
Victor (to Mouse): Of course! Please pass along my regards to Eep. Oh! And if you can remember, in the future... I would VERY much appreciate it if you could convince my parents to forgive me sooner rather than later. Heh. Goodbye!
Mouse (to Victor): Heehee, will do! (to Poppy & Vincent) Hey kids! I've got a message from Victor for you guys. Everything is fine back home, he didn't Marty McFly himself out of existence. So, yay!
Vincent (to Mouse): It hasn't even been 24 hours, and he's ALREADY popping back in for a visit? Good heavens...
Mouse (to Vincent): He said he just wanted to say goodbye to his favorite aunt... He's a chip off the old block.
Vincent (to Mouse): Of course he is. God... We are going to be in so much trouble when we're older.
Mouse (to Vincent): Well, maybe, you should write your future self a letter. :-p
Vincent (to Mouse): "Dear Future Vincent, We're sorry. Sincerely, your genes."
Mouse (to Vincent): I was thinking more along the lines of "Dear Future Vincent, remember all the stupid stuff you did when you were younger, well, this is probably revenge for all of that. Sincerely, younger you"
Vincent (to Mouse): Ha ha ha! Well... It's probably no less than I deserve. Oh God! I'll bet he thinks thing through about as much as I do... Shit.
Mouse (to Vincent): Well, hopefully, he inherited somethings from his mother.
Vincent (to Mouse): Heh, well, he got a double helping of good-looks, so I'm hoping he got her smarts.
Mouse (to Vincent): Wow, little brother, you're certainly taking this much better than I thought you would... I mean, just a few short days ago you were freaked out because you thought Poppy was pregnant & now, you actually sound excited about the prospect.
Vincent (to Mouse): Don't worry. I'm sure I'll have an epic meltdown sooner or later. Part of the reason I was terrified Poppy might be preggers was because I was pretty sure I'd make a terrible father. But, Victor seemed... Well, he seemed OK, didn't he? Hee. Plus, he's from the future, so I don't exactly have to worry about severely screwing up a kid RIGHT THIS SECOND.
Mouse (to Vincent): Sweetie, he seemed more than okay... I always knew you'd be a good dad. :-)
Vincent (to Mouse): Oh. Heh. Well, thank you, hun. I wasn't so sure. But, let's hope so.
Mouse (to Vincent): Oh man, I should have asked Victor if he had any cousins. Curses! :-p
Vincent (to Mouse): Oh? Why is that, sister dearest? Are you hoping for some bouncing bundles of joy yourself?
Mouse (to Vincent): Yes... No... Maybe... He did say something about Persephone not living with you guys now that her parents were alive... Do I even want to know what he was referring to?
Vincent (to Mouse): Mmm. Changing the subject, are we? Alright. Don't think I've forgotten, missy! -P According to Victor, the reason he came back to warn us is because Hiiri decided to make her disagreement with us personal. She targeted Ripper and Poppy's brother Bernard and his wife.
Mouse (to Vincent): Oh well, that makes me even happier that Hiiri is out of the picture... I'd miss Jacob.
Vincent (to Mouse): Me too. And the idea of something happening to Poppy's family breaks my heart. They're good folks. Hee hee. Even if Bernard DOES threaten to strangle me every chance he gets.
Mouse (to Vincent): Heehee... You do seem to bring that out in people, little brother. :-P
Vincent (to Mouse): Good heavens, don't I know it? Anyhoo, thanks for letting me know my time-traveling son from an alternate dimension still exists in the future. :-P I should let the Professor know that it should be safe for him to go back to Britannia now and let Poppy know Victor is OK.
Mouse (to Vincent): Heehee... Okay, take care, little brother. Don't be a stranger!
Vincent (to Mouse): I won't, older sister o' mine. Love you, sweetie.
Mouse (to Vincent): Love you, too!
A short time later:
Margaux Dvorak (to Poppy): Poppy, you are going to want to get your bustle back to Britannia, asap.
Poppy (to Margaux Dvorak): Margaux, is that you? I thought you were on assignment in Qin...
Margaux Dvorak (to Poppy): I was... But, things got ugly and I had to head back. Headquarters has been trying to get in touch with you since yesterday but there's been a strange virus infecting the communication systems, ever since that ship exploded at the docks.
Poppy (to Margaux Dvorak): Oh? That's not good. Why does Mangrove want me back there? He wasn't too happy the last time I spoke to him. I believe he called me a 'troublemaking pain in the arse'.
Margaux Dvorak (to Poppy): HAHA! He said that? Well, it's not far from the truth, sugar, but he's worried that CLANNG is going to make a play for something while we're incapacitated so he wants all hands on deck until the system can be rebooted. Are you available, sweetie, or do you need to check your schedule?
Poppy (to Margaux Dvorak): Oh, Margaux, how I've missed you... I'll be there as soon as I can.
Margaux Dvorak (to Poppy): Actually, can I come and get you? I've been dying to try this new portal generator that R&D came up with...
Poppy (to Margaux Dvorak): Oh sure... I guess so, honey. I'm sending you the coordinates you'll need.
Margaux Dvorak (to Poppy): Perfect! I'll hopefully see you shortly, poptart.
Poppy (to Margaux Dvorak): You know, I really hate that nickname, honey...
Vincent (to Ripper): Hey, Professor! I have some good news for you.
Ripper (to Vincent): Oh really?
Vincent (to Ripper): Hiiri is, well, not dead since she was a robot and not really alive, but she's gone. That should make crossing over MUCH safer. I mean, still be careful, but you don't have any crazy automatons gunning for you any longer.
Ripper (to Vincent): Oh, that IS good news. I sent Magdalena two dozen roses the other day to apologize & she sent them all back...so that should be fun. Can I ask what happened or is it a secret?
Vincent (to Ripper): To Hiiri? Well, it looks like she got on the wrong side of CLANNG. They dropped a safe on her. I'm not even kidding.
Ripper (to Vincent): HAHAHA! Wait... you're not kidding, are you? Well, that's unexpected & hilarious.
Vincent (to Ripper): Well, it's one less thing I have to worry about. Though, I don't like the idea of owing CLANNG anything. Anyway, I'm sorry for any trouble that you might have with Magdalena. But believe me, it's better than the alternative. Next time I'm in Padgett's I'll reassure her it was entirely my fault. :-P
Ripper (to Vincent): Well then, I will owe you a drink... Actually, I owe you two for the warning. I'm going to crossover now & see if I can smooth things over with her. I have a feeling I owe you more than that, but I'm not going to pry, Captain.
Vincent (to Ripper): BELIEVE ME, you probably don't want to know. And really, Victor deserves thanks for the warning, but I'll be happy to accept a drink on his behalf. :-P
Ripper (to Vincent): Oh? I'd be happy to tell him thank you. He's definitely a cutie... I mean, WAY TOO young for me, he makes you seem aged. Totally In a good way, I mean... Wow, just shoot me, now...
Vincent (to Ripper): Ha ha ha! Aged? MOI? Shall I hike up my pants and get myself an early bird special at a buffet now? :-P
Ripper (to Vincent): God, I'm sorry... I've spent all day Sunday over at Robert & Wanda's... apparently, she's rubbing off on me. Now, I owe you a fourth beer. :-P
Vincent (to Ripper): Hee hee. I'll take you up on it sometime. And that's when I'll press you for what you meant by "aged." :-P Have a good time on the other side, Professor. Be careful. Hiiri's not around anymore, but... well, you know.
Ripper (to Vincent): Heh. Will do, Captain... Um, when I get back do you maybe want to catch dinner & a movie with me?
Vincent (to Ripper): Sure. God knows I could use a regular night after all the... Oh. Wait. Did you mean as friends, or did you mean like on a date?
Ripper (to Vincent): Oh... Well, I meant on a date, but it can be just as friends.
Vincent (to Ripper): Ah. Oh. Sorry, Professor, but it would have to be as friends. Heh. Poppy and I are seeing each other.
Ripper (to Vincent): Oh, you are? That's great, I was wondering about that, actually. Friends is totally fine. And, totally ignore the date thing, I was kidding, just wanted to see if you'd tell me about Poppy or not.
Vincent (to Ripper): Hee hee. You could have tried just asking, you know. For future reference, it's FAR less awkward. :-P
Ripper (to Vincent): Yes, but you've completely sidestepped the issue in the past, so I figured an awkward approach might be the way to go. And, speaking of sidestep, I'm at the portal, so I'm going to crossover. I'll see you later, Captain!
Vincent (to Ripper): Later, tater! Heh. Give me a call when you get back and we'll see about sorting out those drinks you owe me.
Ripper (to Vincent): Will do!
Vincent (to Ripper): Have fun, Professor!
An hour or so later:
Poppy (to Margaux Dvorak): Oh, you made it one piece, honey!
Margaux Dvorak (to Poppy): Yes... Navigating in this town is so incredibly disconcerting. It's been awhile since I crossed over. Give me a hug, poptart!
Poppy (to Margaux Dvorak): God, honey... Really must you insist on calling me that?
Margaux Dvorak (to Poppy): What? It's funny & incredibly fitting... Wow. This is a very nice place, I can see why you want to live on this side.
Poppy (to Margaux Dvorak): Thank you, honey... Should we go, now?
Margaux Dvorak (to Poppy): Actually, while I was crossing over, I got a message, apparently they got the virus isolated, so no need for you to come back but, I wasn't going to miss the opportunity to visit you.
Vincent (to Poppy): Hey, lover. What have you been doing with yourself all afternoon?
Poppy (to Vincent): Hi honey... I want to introduce you to our visitor, this is Margaux Dvorak, my first partner & friend. Apparently, there was some trouble at ISS yesterday afternoon after a ship exploded & they were worried about an attack from CLANNG... Margaux was just informing me that as she was crossing over, they got it sorted out.
Margaux Dvorak (to Vincent): Well, hello handsome, I had no idea that the little poptart had gotten herself a beaux. That is absolutely adorable.
Vincent (to Margaux Dvorak): Ah. Very nice to meet you Margaux. As always, it appears Poppy has excellent taste in friends.
Margaux Dvorak (to Vincent): Oh, listen to that... You are a smooth one, sugar.
Vincent (to Margaux Dvorak): Heh. I've been accused of being far worse things, hun.
Margaux Dvorak (to Vincent & Poppy): Well, I won't take up more of your time, it looks like your young man has something important to tell you. So, Poppy my love, give me a squeeze. Come & visit me when you're in New London, you know the address. (to Vincent) And, it was lovely to meet you... You know, if things don't work out with her, give me a call. ;-)
Vincent (to Margaux Dvorak): Oh my. Well, it was certainly... interesting meeting you, Margaux.
Poppy (to Margaux Dvorak): Bye, Margaux! I'm glad you're back from... your trip. I'll come visit you soon, I promise. (to Vincent) So, uh, that was the whirlwind known as Margaux... Sorry, about that, I probably should have warned you, lover. I'm not even sure there was an emergency, I think she just wanted an excuse to come & spy on me. She's been away in Qin for the past year or so. She left right before I went into stasis.
Vincent (to Poppy): Sorry to burst in and call you "lover" in front of her, hun. I hope I didn't cause you any trouble.
Poppy (to Vincent): She's just going to tease me mercilessly later, which is why she gave you her card... It was a test. And, I like it when you call me lover or any term of endearment... It'll be okay. So, did you have something important to tell me?
Vincent (to Poppy): I have some good news, hun. Um, your friend didn't bug our apartment did she? Not that I don't trust spies, hun, but... Well, spies.
Poppy (to Vincent): Heehee, I didn't give her the opportunity, honey... :-P It's safe to talk in here. Plus, Percy made this place pretty much bugproof when he lived here, so we're good.
Vincent (to Poppy): Hee hee. Well, aren't you two smartie-pants? I got a call from Mouse. Apparently Victor paid his "favorite aunt" a visit. He wanted to let us know he's fine.
Poppy (to Vincent): Oh well, that's good news. I know, it's silly, but I was actually worried about him.
Vincent (to Poppy): Heh. I was too, honestly.
Poppy (to Vincent): So... How do really feel about this future knowledge, honey? I mean, honestly...
Vincent (to Poppy): Oh. Well... Um, I'm fine, hun. I mean... I hate to admit it, but I'm actually kind of chuffed about how awesome our kid it. That, uh, that isn't weird, is it?
Poppy (to Vincent): Heehee, no I don't think it's weird at all... I was actually thinking the same thing. :-) I was worried that it was going to scare you off, though.
Vincent (to Poppy): Oh. Heh. No. It doesn't scare you off either, hun?
Poppy (to Vincent): No, not really... I actually feel more comfortable, strangely enough.
Vincent (to Poppy): Does it? Why is that?
Poppy (to Vincent): I don't know, honey... Well, I've been trained to always look for an exit strategy, have a contingency plan, not to get emotionally involved... And, as much as I love you, there's a small part of me that was waiting for the other shoe to drop. And, I guess now that I know we last, I can relax a bit more.
Vincent (to Poppy): Heh. You're not getting rid of me that easily, hun. Sorry. :-P
Poppy (to Vincent): Heh. I don't actually want to get rid of you, lover.
Vincent (to Poppy): Well, I'm glad to hear that.
Poppy (to Vincent): Are you hungry, honey? Because, I've got dinner just about ready.
Vincent (to Poppy): Hun, I am STARVING. What are you making?
Poppy (to Vincent): Nothing fancy, honey... Pasta Puttanesca, garlic bread & a salad.
Vincent (to Poppy): Hmmmm, which just happens--coincidentally--to be one of my faves. Heh. Need any help, hun?
Poppy (to Vincent): If you could check on the pasta, that would be lovely. I'm just finishing up on the salad. Heh. Is it one of your favorites because you like it or because of the name, honey? :-P
Vincent (to Poppy): A little of column A and a little of column B. :-P Pasta looks about done, hun.
Poppy (to Vincent): You have perfect timing, lover... as always! The garlic bread should be done, the sauce is nice and hot. Voila!
Vincent (to Poppy): I'm nothing if not lucky. It smells divine, loved one! What else do you need me to do?
Poppy (to Vincent): Could you pick out some wine & maybe grab some plates?
Vincent (to Poppy): Done and done.
Poppy (to Vincent): You are wonderful, lover... Oh, I almost forgot, there was mail for you. I put it on the counter, there looked like there was a card or a letter.
Vincent (to Poppy): Oh? Really? I wonder what that is about? Who sent it?
Poppy (to Vincent): I don't know, the handwriting was scrawly.
Vincent (to Poppy): One sure way to find out… Well. That was... Annoying.
Poppy (to Vincent): Oh? What was it, honey?
Vincent (to Poppy): A letter from my dad. Not signed, of course, because then I might be able to go to the press. Here. Read it for yourself.
Poppy (to Vincent): Oh alright... Wow, honey, I can see why you're annoyed. I'm sorry, apparently this has been the week for father drama...
Vincent (to Poppy): Heh. It's alright, lover. Honestly? It's almost funny in a way. After everything that happened, his only comment is that he hopes I find my way back to the light of God? Fuck him. Fuck him soundly. The card picturing a good Christian girl hugging her dog in a field of flowers was a nice touch.
Poppy (to Vincent): Awww, forget about it, honey... I'm sorry I mentioned it, I should have waited until after dinner or taken a peek first.
Vincent (to Poppy): Oh, hun. Don't worry about it. Heh. It's not your fault my family is full of assholes. Besides... It doesn't matter. You and I have seen proof that despite my jackass family, I'm not a horrible, asshole dad. Honestly, I hope rehab sticks for my dad this time. And I also hope he never, ever contacts me again.
Poppy (to Vincent): Well, on the plus side, the card was forwarded, so they clearly don't know our address... And, if you'd like I'm sure I can figure out how to make you somewhat invisible for them to find you... I mean, we do that stuff all the time for work, but it's just different technology so it might take me a bit of research or I could get Percy to help. honey.
Vincent (to Poppy): Ha ha ha! Don't worry about it, hun. I know that I've been a pile of angst about those who share my biology lately... But honestly? If doesn't bother me nearly as much as it used to. Don't worry about it.
Poppy (to Vincent): Alright, honey, but if you change your mind, all you have to do is ask.
Vincent (to Poppy): I know, lover. And thank you. I appreciate you looking out for me.
Poppy (to Vincent): Heehee... I just had a ridiculous thought... We should totally send your family one of those photograph Christmas cards with two of us on it kissing & it says something like "Merry Christmas! Oh, and by the way, I'm dating a girl." Sorry... it's probably a terrible idea, but it made me giggle, honey.
Vincent (to Poppy): Ha ha ha! Hun, that sounds like an AMAZING idea. But only if I'm wearing a dress in the picture. :-P
Poppy (to Vincent): Matching ones would be best I think, honey. :-P
Vincent (to Poppy): Ooo! I like it! Maybe we could get all our friends to pose in the picture with us. All in matching dresses. :-P
Poppy (to Vincent): Heehee, I don't know if Sir Grumps-a-lot would go along with it, honey. Though, I bet if we told him Mouse would think it's hot, he'd probably do it... :-P
Vincent (to Poppy): Somehow, I think if we told him it was to fuck with my father, he might at that. From what Mouse has said, he's been more upset about this whole media blitz thing my father has been launching than she has. Hee hee hee. Or we could just tell him Mouse would think it's hot.
Poppy (to Vincent): Heehee, either way, we'll probably get to see him in a dress, honey... Which both fascinates & terrifies me. :-P
Vincent (to Poppy): Somehow, I think it will be a thing horrible to behold. :-P Oh, don't look at me like that. OK, something both horrible and sexy to behold. :-P
Poppy (to Vincent): You are sexy to behold... Heehee... And, this wine has gone straight to my head.
Vincent (to Poppy): If it causes you to make statements like that, I don't mind in the slightest. "Sexy to behold", am I? Really? Tell me more.
Poppy (to Vincent): Heehee, as the future mother of your children, I think I can safely say that when I look at you, I think "I would totally hit that". :-P Wait... is that how the saying goes? It sounds weird.
Vincent (to Poppy): Hee hee hee. Yes, that's how the expression goes. Sometimes, folks add, "I'd hit that like the fist of an angry god." So, you'd hit this like an angry god, would you? ;-}
Poppy (to Vincent): Hmmm, I'd have to say yes, lover.
Vincent (to Poppy): Hee hee hee. Well. I have nothing to day to that. Except, maybe... Prove it. ;-}
Poppy (to Vincent): Oh my... I was going to tidy up the kitchen, but challenge accepted.
Vincent (to Poppy): Well, the dishes can always wait until tomo...
