A Strange Future, Day 22

In West Piedmont:

Marlena (to Yukiko): I've been so busy with prepping for mid-terms that I forgot to ask you. How are you doing with everything? Really?

Yukiko (to Marlena): God, honestly... I have no idea. I mean, how does anyone cope with finding out that your whole family are not only a bunch of criminals, but also think of you as simply a commodity? It's just too weird.

Marlena (to Yukiko): I bet... (to Poppy) Hi there, Aunt Poppy. Ummm, Victor's not here if you're looking for him.

Poppy (to Marlena): Oh, I know that, Mars honey. I'm actually here for Yoyo. (to Yukiko) Do you have any plans for the next few hours, honey?

Yukiko (to Poppy): Oh really? Uh, I just have some studying to do for my last mid-term tomorrow. Is there something wrong?

Poppy (to Yukiko): Not at all, honey. I was just curious about something. Mouse has graciously agreed to let me the use of her workout area... Would you please throw on some comfy clothes & join me, please? (to Marlena) You can join us too if you'd like, Mars.

Yukiko (to Poppy): Oh. Yes, ma'am.

Marlena (to Poppy): Uh, thanks, Poppy but I have some more studying to do & a mid-term this afternoon.

Poppy (to Marlena): Well, suit yourself. Good luck with your exams, honey.

Marlena (to Yukiko): Good luck, Yoyo.

Yukiko (to Marlena): Thanks... I have a feeling I'm going to need it.

A few moments later:

Marlena (to Victor): Hey Victor! Is there a reason your mom is taking Yoyo down into our basement? She's about to get her ass kicked, isn't she?

Victor (to Marlena): What? Oh... Oh shit. THAT'S why she has me cleaning out all these bloody flintlocks. Mom won't hurt her, but um... Yeah. I may have mentioned that Seph said she nailed some CLANNG goon when they were running away from the automaton. And I'll bet she's going to grill her to find out exactly what happened when I went over to Britannia. It's really damned hard to lie when you're concentrating on not getting smacked in the head.

Marlena (to Victor): Damn... Your mom is sneaky.

Victor (to Marlena): Yeah. Tell me something I don't know. Crap. She and Dad are going to be beyond mad when they find out we went into the Tower of London. They're going to lock me in your basement until I'm old enough to retire.

Marlena (to Victor): Oh... I don't think Yoyo will say anything about it. She managed to look your dad right in the eye & not say anything. At least, that's what Persephone said. Oh, and by the way, Seph thinks Yoyo is the bee's knees. So, clearly you have to dump her. :-P

Victor (to Marlena): Oh god. I'm never going to hear the end of this from her. Maybe it's a good thing I'll be locked in the basement forever.

Marlena (to Victor): Yeah, she was going on & on about Yoyo kicking some guy. Poor Yoyo!

Victor (to Marlena): You weren't there when she confronted her parents...

Marlena (to Victor): Oh, was it terrible? She wouldn't tell me anything about it.

Victor (to Marlena): It was pretty terrible. And shocking. I mean, I know how awful some people are to their kids. Your dad, my parents, they all had shitty folks, but to see it first hand was... They basically told her that she was a girl, and her only worth was as an asset to her brother. It was like they didn't even care what might happen to her. She was honor-bound to obey. Her mom did most of the talking. I couldn't understand most of it. They were talking WAY too fast.

Marlena (to Victor): Damn, that explains why she didn't want to talk about it. God, she's really on her own now, isn't she?

Victor (to Marlena): Yeah. I wish I knew what to say to her, but I'm kind of at a loss.

Marlena (to Victor): Yeah, me too. We'll figure out something. I gotta run to class. I'll talk to you later!

Victor (to Marlena): Of course. Good luck with your tests.

Several hours later:

Yukiko: This was honestly one of the weirdest days ever... And that's saying a lot after the week I've had.

A Strange Future, Day 21

In West Piedmont:

Vincent (to Victor): Good afternoon! I didn't expect you to be up and moving already. I've got some aspirin for you.

Victor (to Vincent): Thanks. How did you know I have a headache?

Vincent (to Victor): You always do you you overextend yourself. Do you want something to eat? We finally have proper food in the house.

Victor (to Vincent): Oh... No. Thank you. I'm not hungry just yet.

Vincent (to Victor): I know about your trip over to Britannia. Yoyo confessed that Seph asked you to come over to keep her from running away.

Victor (to Vincent): Oh. So how mad are you?

Vincent (to Victor): Pretty mad. But, what I really want to know about is the creepy automaton that Seph noticed at the Inn.

Victor (to Vincent): She, um, she knew who I was, Dad.

Vincent (to Victor): I was afraid you were going to say that. Listen to me, Victor. No matter what, we need you to stay here. Do you understand?

Victor (to Vincent): Yes, sir.

Vincent (to Victor): Good lad. We'll talk about you jaunting off-world willy nilly later. Don't think we've forgotten.

A short time later:

Poppy (to Vincent): How did the talk go with Victor, honey?

Vincent (to Poppy): Not well. It sounds like the kids had a run in with an automaton connected to CLANNG. She was a little girl...

Poppy (to Vincent): Oh... You don't think it's Carver's little pet, do you, honey?

Vincent (to Poppy): That's what I'm afraid of, sweetie. Victor mentioned she knew who he was, and from what Persephone told me, she was at the inn talking to Akira earlier in the week.

Poppy (to Vincent): Well, I'm glad we've got Victor over here. That should keep him out of CLANNG's reach. Did you talk to him about his little excursion & whether or not Yoyo knows about his ability?

Vincent (to Poppy): Oh, she knows. Especially after his little trick. And ours for that matter. But somehow, I suspect she already knew.

Poppy (to Vincent): Hmmm, yes, I'm sure the Professor wasn't all that discreet. Makes me wonder what else she may know.

A Strange Future, Day 20

In West Piedmont:

Mouse (to Marlena & Yukiko): Wakey, wakey, girls! There's breakfast, coffee & Yoyo you have a visitor... my sister-in-law, Poppy, is here.

Marlena (to Mouse): Ugh... Mom, it's Sunday. Can't I please sleep in?

Yukiko (to Mouse): Yes, ma'am. I'll be up momentarily. 

Mouse (to Marlena): No. I found your cigarettes. You told me you had quit... Again.

Yukiko (to Marlena): I think she's got plans for you, Mars.

Marlena (to Mouse): Oh... Damn. (to Yukiko) I think you might be right.

A few minutes later:

Poppy (to Yukiko): Good morning, honey. I'm sorry to bother you on a Sunday. But, it looks like my husband & I are going to need you to come with us to the Britannia... No, no. Don't worry! We still plan on getting you out from under your family. It's just Akira wants to make sure that you're still alive & that this isn't some sort of horrible trick. So, throw on something appropriate & we'll be there and back before you know it. And then, we can put all of this ugliness behind us.

Yukiko (to Poppy): Oh yes, of course! Is Victor coming with us?

Poppy (to Yukiko): No, no. We didn't think that would be a good idea. We left him a note. We were both worried that he wouldn't behave himself.

Yukiko (to Poppy): Oh... I'll be ready to go in just a minute. (to Marlena) I'll see you later. Your aunt & uncle are taking me over to see my family. I'll be back soon... I hope.

Marlena (to Yukiko): Okay. Be careful, Yoyo.

A short time later:

Vincent (to Poppy & Yukiko): There you are, lovelies! Shall we? Don't worry, Yoyo. Everything will be fine.

Yukiko (to Vincent & Poppy): I know, Captain Potter... But, to be honest, Akira always scared me a little bit & now learning all of this doesn't help at all. Thank you so much for doing all of this, it's really very nice of you both. I'm not sure how I can ever repay you for all of this, but I will. I promise.

Vincent (to Yukiko): Not at all, hun. We can't fix the world, but we can make small bits of it slightly less horrid. we can handle Akira. I'm sorry you had to learn about your family's true profession so dramatically.

Yukiko (to Poppy & Vincent): Well, there were always things that seemed odd to me, but frankly I think I just didn't want to know.

Poppy (to Yukiko): Honey, don't worry your pretty little head about it.

Vincent (to Yukiko): Listen to my lovely wife. It's the very least we can do. You're Mars' best friend AND our Little Man's girlfriend. Hee hee. I'm sorry, hun. I didn't mean to embarrass you.

Yukiko (to Vincent): Oh... I guess, I'm just not used to it myself.

Poppy (to Yukiko): Heehee, it's okay, honey. We've all been there. (to Yukiko & Vincent) I'm going to pop over ahead of you two to doublecheck everything. (to Vincent) Try to behave, lover.

Yukiko (to Poppy): Thank you, Miss Poppy.

Vincent (to Poppy): I always try, lover. I just so rarely succeed.

Poppy (to Vincent): And that's why I love you, honey. (to Yukiko) I'll see you shortly, Miss Kobayashi. Don't fret. My husband is a wonderful pilot & traveling companion. You're in good hands.

Vincent (to Poppy): You forgot devastatingly handsome! (to Yukiko) She forgot devastatingly handsome.

Poppy (to Vincent): Oh, did I, honey? Hmmm, how odd of me... (to Yukiko & Vincent) Toodles! 

At the Longfellow Inn, New London, Britannia: 

Poppy (to Persephone): Hello Persephone dear! You're looking as lovely as usual. Arm healing up alright? It's not giving you any trouble, is it? ... Seriously, honey, the silent treatment? Aren't we a little old for that game? … Apparently not. Fine. I was going to ask for your help with something, but nevermind…

Persephone: Blast it all! (to Poppy) Wait! ... Aunt Poppy! What do you need help with?

Poppy (to Persephone): Oh, mostly I just need help watching the perimeter of the inn while we have this meeting. Think you can handle it?

Persephone (to Poppy): Of course, I can!

Meanwhile, aboard the Maltese Falcon:

Yukiko (to Vincent & Poppy): Heehee... I'm sorry. I shouldn't laugh.

Vincent (to Yukiko): Please do. I wouldn't know what to think of myself if I wasn't funny and charming. Heh. I'm just teasing you, kiddo. Don't worry. You and I are taking the scenic route via airship. We've set up the meeting at my brother-in-law's inn. Akira knows the place, and that will give us home court advantage.

Yukiko (to Vincent): I'm sorry, I've just never met adults like you & your wife, before. My parents always seemed very prim & proper to me. Especially my mother. Do you really think this will go smoothly & my brother will just give up all claims to me?

Vincent (to Yukiko): Well, your mother is from a very strict and structured profession, hun. She reminds me a bit of my mother, actually. Hee hee. It's probably why we never got on. As I said, everything will be fine. Your brother is in a tough place. That should make him a bit more compliant than he might otherwise be. Plus, we've got Poppy on our side. I feel sorry for him. Well, I *almost* feel sorry for him.

Yukiko (to Vincent): Oh... I kinda wish... Mars was coming with us. I think I could use a hand to hold. Is Victor going to be terribly upset that you left him behind?

Vincent (to Yukiko): Mars's hand, eh? Heh. And yes, I imagine Victor will be VERY annoyed when we get back. But, we didn't think he'd be able to remain unemotional while we were dealing with Akira. Goodness knows it's not as though I've always remained rational when I thought he or Poppy were in trouble.

Yukiko (to Vincent): He's really very sweet... Oh.

Vincent (to Yukiko): What's the matter, hun?

Yukiko (to Vincent): I just realized you said your brother-in-law's inn. Is this where Victor's cousin lives?

Vincent (to Yukiko): Persephone, yes. Best not to tell her who you are, hun. She'll get even more involved than our son would have.

Yukiko (to Vincent): Yes, of course.

Vincent (to Yukiko): Don't worry. You two can meet after everything is said and done, and I'm sure she'll like you.

Yukiko (to Vincent): Thank you for saying so. The way Victor & Mars have described her, she sounds a little... intense.

Vincent (to Yukiko): Hee hee. Oh, she's more than a little intense. She's very intense. It's one of her charms.

Yukiko (to Vincent): I have a feeling I'm going to be in big trouble when I meet her.

Vincent (to Yukiko): Heh. You can only hope so. She's a good kid. Even if she is CONSTANTLY getting my son in trouble.

Yukiko (to Vincent): Heehee.

Vincent (to Yukiko): Alright. Here we are, hun. Let my wife and I, actually... Scratch that. Just let my wife do the talking.

Yukiko (to Vincent): Yes sir.

Vincent (to Yukiko): Don't worry. We won't let anything happen to you. Everything will be fine.

A short time later, in West Piedmont:

Mouse (to Victor): Hey there, Victor! What brings you over this way?

Victor (to Mouse): Hello, Aunt Mouse. Did my parents come by and pick up Yoyo earlier?

Mouse (to Victor): Yes, they did. Her brother was demanding to see her, to make sure she was alive & in one piece. I think he accused them of some sort of treachery... Your mother wasn't very happy about it. Mars is in her room reading, if you want to talk to her.

Victor (to Mouse): Yes, ma'am. Thank you. (to Marlena) Um, Hey. I'm not interrupting, am I?

Marlena (to Victor): No... I'm hiding. Mom read me the riot act earlier. She found my pack of cigarettes in my hoodie when she was doing laundry.

Victor (to Marlena): Ohhh. Yikes. That explains the look she had when she let me in.

Marlena (to Victor): Yeah. So, what's up with you?

Victor (to Marlena): It's that obvious, is it? Something happened at the meeting between my parents and Yoyo's brother. They took her to some emergency meeting and left me here, because I can't be trusted not to be emotionally involved.

Marlena (to Victor): Oh well, that explains it. She had said something about them taking her to see her family when she left.

Victor (to Marlena): Yeah... Would you mind if I stayed here a little while? I'm just going to stew if left to myself at the apartment.

Marlena (to Victor): Sure. Pull up a chair, grab a book... or we can watch something on the computer.

Victor (to Marlena): Thank you. So, Daniel ended up asking you out, did he?

Marlena (to Victor): Yeah... It was nice for the first half of the date & then, he got a bit too handsy for my taste. I cut the date short and came home.

Victor (to Marlena): He did what? That asshole! Did you punch him? Do you want me to punch him?

Marlena (to Victor): Whoa there, tiger! I handled it, it was fine. I wasn't afraid for my life or anything. He just seemed to think that since we had been flirting with each other over the trip for a weekend that he had more leeway then a normal first date. His mistake. It's a shame, really. Because other than that, I was enjoying our date...

Victor (to Marlena): Oh. Sorry... Would you go out with him again, if you knew he would behave himself?

Marlena (to Victor): I don't think so. As much as, I liked him, probably not. I mean, the fact that he already had that thought in his head makes me a little concerned. Who knows, if next time he would take no for an answer or if he's pressured girls into it before… My momma didn't raise no dummy. And, it's not like I'm ever so desperate for a boyfriend or anything.

Victor (to Marlena): Yeah. No kidding. What a fucking creep. I'm sorry it didn't go well.

Marlena (to Victor): It's okay... We can't all have magical first dates... or second ones, for that matter. :-P Oh, and next time you and Yoyo decide to lay out on blanket in the backyard, you may want to move a little more to the right. I had a very clear view from my bedroom. Don't worry! I closed the shades. But, that means my mom or dad could have seen you.

Victor (to Marlena): Oh... Sorry.

Marlena (to Victor): Heh. I don't care that you & Yoyo were kissing. I just know that if Mom or Dad had seen you, you'd both be getting an earful and I know you've already been getting grief from your parents.

Victor (to Marlena): Good lord, have I ever. I now officially know more about my parents' sex life ANYONE would want to know.

Marlena (to Victor): Oh god... Really? Did they go into details? Gross.

Victor (to Marlena): Nothing explicit, thank GOD, but they went into enough details. That's my parents all over, though, isn't it?

Marlena (to Victor): Heh, yeah it is.

At the Longfellow Inn, New London, Britannia: 

Yukiko: Gah! I think I may actually hate my brother... I need some fresh air.

Persephone (to Yukiko): Hi there.

Yukiko (to Persephone): Um, hello? Who's there?

Persephone (to Yukiko): Shhhh... I'm up here in the tree. No, no. Don't look up. You're going to ruin my hiding place.

Yukiko (to Persephone): Oh. Terribly sorry... Why are you in the tree, if you don't mind my asking?

Persephone (to Yukiko): I'm not sure I should say... But, it's very important. Apparently, some little tartlet is getting sold to a fat, old pirate for his very ugly, mentally defective son. My aunt & uncle are helping to get her free of all that & I'm acting as lookout.

Yukiko (to Persephone): Tartlet? That's a little harsh. She could be a very nice girl.

Persephone (to Yukiko): I suppose... Oh... wait. You're the girl, huh?

Yukiko (to Persephone): Yes. That would be me.

Persephone (to Yukiko): Oops... I'm so sorry. Sometimes, my mouth just goes. I feel like a right idiot.

Yukiko (to Persephone): Trust me, I'm not happy about this whole situation, either. Do you mind if I just sit under this tree for a little while?

Persephone (to Yukiko): Oh sure, go ahead... It'll make my job easier.

A short time later:

Persephone (to Victor): Psssst. Victor? Can you hear me? Speak quietly, if you do.

Victor (to Persephone): Seph! I mean... Seph? What's going on?

Persephone (to Victor): Oh my god. It's so incredibly exciting... Your parents are here meeting that pirate I told you about before & the girl who they're arguing over is asleep under the tree I'm sitting in. Something happened & she stormed out of the meeting & came out here. And, there's been a lot of shouting in Nipponese & your dad looks really mad. God, I wish you were here. It's like something out of a book. It's so epic.

Victor (to Persephone): Oh my God... Is everyone OK?

Persephone (to Victor): So far, everyone is fine. I can't understand a word of it. Your dad keeps looking like he might shoot someone, though.

Victor (to Persephone): ... Wow. My dad doesn't lose his cool very often. That's, um, worrisome. Is Yoyo doing alright?

Persephone (to Victor): Wait. Yoyo? As in that girl you like, Yoyo? Shit... Um... She's fine.

Victor (to Persephone): Um, yeah. No one told you that? No one told you that.

Persephone (to Victor): Um, no... and I may have been a little rude to her when I first met her. To be fair, I didn't know who she was... I'm a jerk. But, she's okay. She fell asleep under the tree I'm in & now, it looks like she's writing something... in Nipponese.

Victor (to Persephone): I'm sure with everything else that's going on, she's not worried that you were rude to her, Seph. Don't worry. Can you, um, can you get her a message for me? Tell her Mars and I are thinking about her and that everything will be OK.

Persephone (to Victor): Oh sure, I'l do that right-- As soon as, I can find her. Damn it... I've gotta go & catch her. I think she's running off.

In West Piedmont:

Victor: Shit.

Marlena (to Victor): What's going on, Victor? I could only hear your side of the conversation.

Victor (to Marlena): I don't know. Seph was prattling on about how exciting it all was, & about how my dad looked like he wanted to shoot someone, there was a lot of shouting, and then Yoyo ran off.

Marlena (to Victor): Oh god! Someone's gotta go find her... Where would she go!?!

Victor (to Marlena): Yeah. I might be able... I mean, I can try to focus in on where Seph and Yoyo are, but... No. I can do it.

Marlena (to Victor): You go! I'll stay here & cover for you. Okay?

Victor (to Marlena): Thank you! I guess I'm going to give this harness thing a test run after all. If you don't hear from us soon, like 2 hours soon, tell my... No, better tell your mom first. Tell her EVERYTHING. Wish us luck.

Marlena (to Victor): Okay... Good luck!

Victor (to Marlena): Thanks. We'll see you soon.

Meanwhile, in New London, Britannia:

Persephone: This is so not good... Clearly, it's not my fault. My aunt told me to look for people trying to come in, not for people running away. Grunt! (to Yukiko) YOYO! Hold up! Stop running. I want to help.

Yukiko (to Persephone): No! You're just going to take me back there! And, I don't want to see my brother ever again! He's awful! He said terrible things about me & my sisters. I just can't believe it.

Persephone (to Victor): I hope you're getting this. (to Yukiko) I'm not going to take you back... But, where exactly do you think you're going?

Yukiko (to Persephone): To see my parents. I just can't believe that they would agree to this... I need to hear it from them.

Persephone (to Victor): If you can hear me, meet us at the prison. Hurry. (to Yukiko) Okay, okay. Let's go see your parents. It'll be okay.

Victor (to Persephone): I read you. I'll see you shortly, OK?

Persephone (to Victor): Ok.

Victor: Oh... Holy shit on toast, that was... Ouch. (to Persephone & Yukiko) Hello?

Persephone (to Victor): You made it! Now, talk some sense into your friend. I'm going to go talk to the guards or warden or whatever & see if we can get her in.

Yukiko (to Victor): Victor? What are you doing here? Are you okay?

Victor (to Persephone): We don't need to... God. My head. Yeah. OK... (to Yukiko) Hi. Seph asked--asked me to come talk to you. I'm fine... I mean, I will be in a second. Opening a portal blind is a little difficult. If it's not someplace I know, I mean. It knocks the wind out of my sails a bit.

Yukiko (to Victor): Here, sit. You look a little wobbly... You didn't have to come... But, thank you. I just know what I need to do now and well, you and your whole family have been so wonderful, but I can't let other people deal with this stuff. I want to talk to parents and then, I'm going to go away... I think it would be for the best. You've done too much for me already. I don't want to cause anyone any more trouble than I already have.

Victor (to Yukiko): What?! Yoyo! You can't do that! I mean, please don't do that. It's not... It's not like that, honestly!

Yukiko (to Victor): No. You didn't hear the things that Akira said... He's awful. I'm amazed I never realized it before. Even if your parents do get him to agree to let me go... I'm never going to get to see the rest of my family again. He said he'd make sure of it. If he would do something like that. What's to stop him from making life difficult for you & your family? If I run off, it'll be all on me & he'll leave you all alone... It's for the best.

Victor (to Yukiko): I'm sorry. I'm so, SO sorry. But--but that's all the more reason for you not to head out on your own. Please don't go. Did you know Mars isn't really my cousin? Like in a biological sense. I mean, she IS my cousin. We were raised together. But her mom and my dad aren't actually related. Aunt Mouse found my dad on her porch when he was my age. And my mom. She's from the Tombs. Her dad sold all her brothers to workhouses, and when he tried to do that to her, she ran away. My folks know ALL about fucked up families. I mean, that's one of the reasons we want to help you. We all do.

Yukiko (to Victor): But then, what? I mean, you all could very well end up stuck with me... While that seems fine, now... What happens after? It'll just be weird and awkward. Better to go away now & wonder what it could have been then to stay & have it ruined.

Victor (to Yukiko): OR, better to have you stay, and finish school and have a half a fucking chance to be OK rather than let you run off.

Yukiko (to Victor): You're not going to let me leave, are you?

Victor (to Yukiko): Not if I can help it.

Yukiko (to Victor): Oh...

A few minutes later:

Persephone (to Victor & Yukiko): Okay, I-- Oh god! Really! I did not need to see that...

Victor (to Persephone): Calm down. We weren't doing anything all that interesting. What did you find out?

Persephone (to Victor): That kiss did not look like simply nothing, but I digress... (to Victor & Yukiko) So, Yoyo's parents are being held in the tower of Old London. It's where they hold the "traitors" & political prisoners. They haven't been sentenced yet. And, we may be able to get a note to them. One of the guards seemed to be willing to do it with the right amount of money.

Yukiko (to Persephone): Oh, just a note? I was really hoping to see them.

Victor (to Persephone): Did he say how much he wanted?

Persephone (to Victor & Yukio): Not much, like 50. He said it's fairly easy, but it's still risky. I think he liked me. :-P … That's odd.

Victor (to Peresphone): OK. So, either he likes you and wants you to make out with him to deliver a note, or he's going to turn us in.

Yukiko (to Persephone): Are you okay? What's odd?

Persephone (to Yukiko): I thought I saw that creepy little girl that was at the inn the other day. I don't see her now.

Victor (to Persephone): Can you show me exactly what tower they're in, and do you think you can distract the guard for a while?

Persephone (to Victor & Yukio): More than likely... (to Victor) Can I talk to you for a minute? Alone, cousin dear?

Victor (to Persephone): Of course. What is it?

Persephone (to Victor): What on earth are you thinking, Victor? I mean, I know you like this girl... but, portaging into the Tower of London is crazy. And this is coming from me, who normally loves a good adventure. You know most men just give their sweethearts flowers or a box of chocolate when they're in the early stages of courting, not possible arrest or capture. I mean, it's one thing if you, Mars or I do it. We're family & have grown up with this stuff. She's a bit of a-- I hate to use the term "virgin" when it comes to this stuff, but I can tell just by looking at her. Is she really worth the risk? And yes, I know! I can totally sense the irony.

Victor (to Persephone): I don't know. But, it's her parents, Seph. At best, she'll never see them again. At worst, they're going to be executed. I don't have a better idea. Do you? Besides, I've got this nifty little, um, whatever it is Mars whipped up, so if it works properly, I'll be right back here before you get a chance to miss me.

Persephone (to Victor): Fine... They're in cell 303C, it's the third window from the right of that post on the third floor. Be careful. I'll go distract the guards, just to be on the safe side.

Victor (to Persephone): We'll be back in half a tick. Be careful yourself! Don't get arrested! (to Yukiko) Are you ready?

Persephone: I do not like this one bit... Here goes nothing.

Yukiko (to Victor): I think so.

Victor (to Yukiko): OK. If something happens, just grab a hold of me. I'll try to get us out of there before anything, um, unpleasant...

Yukiko (to Victor): I'm not letting go. Trust me.

Victor (to Yukiko): Here we go. This might hurt a little bit...

Twenty minutes later:

Starling (to Yukiko & Victor): Hello there... You're quite an interesting little troupe, aren't you? I'm not quite sure you can do your little trick again so soon. But, please don't even think about it.

Victor (to Starling): Oh God! Where did you come from? We're not really all that interesting... Um, I don't know what you're talking about.

Starling (to Victor & Yukiko): On the contrary, Mister Harrison, I find you VERY interesting... And, Miss Kobayashi, I recognize you from a photograph... I believe the three of us are going to be such good friends. It's a pity, I couldn't retrieve the other one. If you would please come with me. There's someone I think will be very excited to see you again, Mr. Harrison.

Yukiko (to Starling): Who are you!?! (to Victor) What's going on?

Victor (to Starling): Actually, no. I don't think so. You'll have to send our regards. We really should be going. (to Yukiko) Go. Just go.

Yukiko (to Victor): What about you!?!

Persephone (to Starling): Take that you weird little moppet! (to Victor & Yukiko) … Oh crap! She's an automaton.

Starling (to Persephone): Really, Miss? Where are your manners? Striking a poor, defenseless child. Were you raised in a barn?

Victor (to Persephone & Yukiko): GO! Will you two go already!

Persephone (to Victor): We are going! (to Yukiko) Come on, Yoyo!

Starling (to Victor): Oh, that really hurts my feelings, Mister Harrison. I had such plans for the 2 of them... They were going to be my favorites.

Victor (to Starling): Yeah. I'm sure your heart would be broken, if you had one. Not that it hasn't been great, but I'm leaving. Have a nice day.

Starling (to Victor): Allow me to persuade you, Mister Harrison. I believe my friend, Mister Gun, has other ideas.

Victor (to Starling): Shit.

Starling (to Victor): Don't worry... We're not going very far. Our airship is docked at the port.

Victor (to Starling): Oh. Good. Oh look! Is that a huge electromagnet? ... Mars, I really hope this bloody thing you made works...

Starling: Well, phooey!

In West Piedmont:

Marlena (to Victor): -- luck! ... Why are you still here, Victor? I thought you were going?

Victor (to Marlena): Oh my God... OH MY GOD! Mars... You--YOU are a goddamned GENIUS! Holy shit... Yoyo and Seph! Do you still have that communicator? Nevermind! I found it. (to Persephone) SEPH!

Persephone (to Victor): Dear god! What's with the yelling?

Victor (to Persephone): Are you two alright? Are you safe? You got away from that little monstrosity, didn't you?

Persephone (to Victor): Yeah, we're fine. We're back at the inn... Your mom just came to tell me what happened with the meeting. Yoyo seems a bit out of it. Did you guys talk to her parents?

Victor (to Persephone): Yeah... We did. Man. And we thought our family was fucked up.

Persephone (to Victor): Yeah... Um, I should probably tell you this before your parents do, so you're prepped for it... Your mom had to tell Akira that she was getting Yoyo, um, for... you.

Victor (to Persephone): Wait... She WHAT? Oh... Oh, that's not awkward at all.

Persephone (to Victor): Apparently, it was the only way to finally get him to agree to the deal. He wanted to make sure that Yoyo was going to be cared for... and not abandoned willy nilly after the deal was done. Your mom was furious...

Victor (to Persephone): I think I need to sit down...

Persephone (to Victor): I'm sure you do... I need to get back to Yoyo. She's looking a little peaky. It'll be okay. No one is going to make you get hitched or anything. Your mom just said it to get it over with. Okay?

Marlena (to Victor): Victor, are you okay?

Victor (to Marlena): I'm fine. (to Persephone) I know. I know. It's just... Nevermind. Go make sure Yoyo is OK. It's been a hell of a day.

Persephone (to Victor): It's just what? You are not allowed to start keeping secrets from me. Not now. Not after everything that happened today.

Victor (to Persephone): It's not a secret! It's just... it's just a lot to process, right now. I mean... You don't think Yoyo's going to hate me after all this, drama, and terror, and weirdness, and pseudo-engagements do you?

Persephone (to Victor): Hard to say. I've only just met her, but I think once she gets over the initial shock, I think she'll be fine... & I really think it would be a good idea to teach her how to use a sword. She should know how to defend herself. She's got a good instinct. You should have seen her kick one of the CLANNG officers when we ran. It was like BAM! He went down like a rock.

Victor (to Persephone): Really? Heh. Well, I'm sure my mom and dad would be willing. Thanks, Seph.

Persephone (to Victor): I'll talk to you later! Just relax.

Victor (to Persephone): I'll try. Seph... That creepy little automaton knew who I was.

Persephone (to Victor): Oh... that's not good. Don't worry. I'll take care of it. No one will find out you were here. Okay?

Victor (to Persephone): Thanks. I'll talk to you later.

At the Longfellow Inn, New London, Britannia: 

Poppy (to Vincent): Honey, I know I'm retired from the whole assassin business, but I would really like to kill Akira Kobayashi. I cannot believe the sheer medieval male chauvinist drivel that was coming out of his mouth... Ooooo... I am so mad.

Vincent (to Poppy): I know, hun. I know. Look at it this way, we got that poor girl away from him at the least.

Poppy (to Vincent): I know, lover. But, treating his sister like a piece of property like that, it just burns me up. God... Do we tell Victor & Yoyo? ... Wait, What am I saying? Persephone is probably going to tell them both. Shit. I need a drink.

Vincent (to Poppy): Ha ha ha! Oh good heavens! That's not funny. That's not funny at all, but you are so totes right! Oh lord... I was afraid I was going to shoot Akria for a little while there. He is going to be quite the pain in our side. Especially now that we're "family." Here, hun, it's straight rum, but after all that, I think we're entitled.

Poppy (to Vincent): Thank you, honey... What should we do with the little miss for the time being? I could pop her back to Mouse's.

Vincent (to Poppy): Probably, hun. I'm sure she can use a little mundane right about now.

Poppy (to Vincent): Will you go retrieve her from Persephone, lover? I'll go say thank you and goodbye to Bernard, Molly & the boys.

Yukiko (to Persephone): Is Victor okay?

Persephone (to Yukiko): Of course, he is... He's hanging out with Mars. (to Vincent) Hi Uncle Vincent... Is everything alright?

Vincent (to Persephone): Am I correct in assuming from that conversation that my son is the one whose presence your are covering up, Ms Persephone?

Persephone (to Victor): Oh well, no... There's really no point in me lying, is there? You see, it's my fault because--

Yukiko (to Persephone): You don't have to cover up for me, Persephone. (to Vincent) It's my fault, sir. I was going to run away & your niece tried to stop me and I was pretty adamant about it, so she called Victor to ask for help. He came here while you were inside & he managed to talk me out of it. We stayed here at the inn the whole time, we knew he wasn't supposed to be over here, because you & your wife had left that note. So, Persephone had offered to cover for him. And, she was talking to him to make sure he got back to the other side okay. I am very sorry to cause so much trouble, sir.

Persephone (to Vincent): That is it in a nutshell, Uncle Vincent. I'm sorry, I didn't know any other way to stop her from running off.

Vincent (to Yukiko): Good heavens, hun. If you never thought about going into intelligence work, you should. (to Persephone & Yukiko) I know you're not telling me everything, girls, but I'll leave it alone for tonight. (to Yukiko) Are you ready to head home, hun?

Yukiko (to Vincent): Yes, please.

Persephone (to Vincent): Wait. There is something, Uncle... There was a creepy little girl here the other day talking to one of those pirates & I could have sworn I saw her again today. There looked to be CLANNG soldiers with her this time.

Vincent (to Persephone): Wait. What? What else aren't you telling me about this, girls? You need to tell me everything you know.

Persephone (to Vincent): She was talking to Yoyo's older brother a few days ago... and then, we saw her again today when we were back here trying to talk Yoyo out of running away... She seemed really interested in us. It was creepy. Her eyes were creepy... I think she was an automaton. That's all I swear.

Vincent (to Persephone): An automaton? You're sure?

Persephone (to Vincent): I'm pretty sure. Aunt Poppy told me what to look for to identify the really good ones... And, she didn't seem to blink. I've never seen a little kid one before, though. I mean, why would anyone want that? ... Wait. I don't think I want to know.

Vincent (to Persephone): Thank you for telling me, Persephone. And thank you for your help today. (to Yukiko) Let's head home, Yoyo.

Yukiko (to Vincent): I'm ready to go, sir.

Persephone (to Vincent): Not a problem, Uncle. (to Yukiko) I know we only just met but be careful and please take care of yourself. And, I'm glad that you're Victor's girlfriend.

Yukiko (to Persephone): Thank you for everything, Seph. I'll see you later.

Vincent (to Yukiko): Alright, hun. I took you the long way before, but we're going the short way this time. It's been a long day.

Yukiko (to Vincent): Oh? I didn't realize there was a short way.

Poppy (to Vincent & Yukiko): Are we ready to go, sweeties?

Vincent (to Poppy): Indeed, lover. You know what arguing with rogues and pirates does to me. :-P

Poppy (to Vincent): Oh my, lover... Not in front of the young lady, please. :-P

Vincent (to Yukiko): Oh. Hee hee. Sorry, hun. Poppy and I are just teasing.

Yukiko (to Poppy & Vincent): Heehee. It's okay.

Poppy (to Vincent & Yukiko): Alright, everyone grab a hand... And, away we go...

In West Piedmont:

Mouse (to Poppy, Yukiko & Vincent): Goddamn it! You scared the hell out of me.

Poppy (to Mouse): Sorry, honey... We were in a bit of a hurry... Oof... That always takes it out of me.

Vincent (to Mouse): I'm sorry, sweetie. Good heavens, I feel ready to fall over. I don't know how Victor does that willy nilly...

Poppy (to Vincent): Honey, not in front-- Oh, nevermind.

Vincent (to Poppy): It's alright, lover. She already knows. Apparently, our boy paid a quick visit to Britannia.

Mouse (to Vincent & Poppy): Let me get you two something to drink. Sit down. (to Yukiko) Victor & Mars are hanging out in her room.

Yukiko (to Mouse, Poppy & Vincent): Thank you! I should go say hello.

Poppy (to Mouse): Thank you, honey. (to Vincent) Oh, I'm sure there's going to be a very good story about this... Let's head home, lover.

Vincent (to Poppy): Mmmm. I would LOVE to head home. But, let's give the kids a couple of minutes. We can shout at them tomorrow.

Poppy (to Vincent): Oh, I was thinking that you & I could go home, lover... I think they'll need more than a few minutes to talk over everything.

Vincent (to Poppy): You are a genius, lover. (to Mouse) Can you send our wayward boy home when he makes an appearance, sweetie?

Poppy (to Vincent): I know, honey. :-)

Mouse (to Vincent & Poppy): Of course. Go get some rest.

Yukiko (to Marlena & Victor): Hey, you two. I'm back.

Victor (to Yukiko): Oh thank heavens! Are you alright? I mean, are you... You're not... I'm sorry I had to abandon you and Seph earlier.

Yukiko (to Victor): It's okay... Can we sneak outside for a minute?

Victor (to Yukiko): Oh. Yes. Of course. (to Marlena) Thanks for keeping me company, Mars. And thanks for your device. You saved my ass.

Marlena (to Victor): Yeah, yeah... Go take care of your girlfriend. (to Yukiko) I'm glad you're okay.

Yukiko (to Marlena): Thanks, Mars.

A moment later:

Victor (to Yukiko): How are you doing? I mean, really? After everything?

Yukiko (to Victor): I'm doing better than I expected, actually... I'm probably in shock & will have a breakdown later. Are you okay?

Victor (to Yukiko): I'm fine. I'll have one hell of a headache when the adrenaline wears off, and, I'll bet I'm going to be grounded...

Yukiko (to Victor): ... Sorry, I didn't know any other way to say thank you.

Victor (to Yukiko): Oh! I... Heh. I was sure you were going to want me to give you some space after all that.

Yukiko (to Victor): Well, I thought after hearing my parents be so awful to me & me wanting to run away that you'd be done with my whiny ass.

Victor (to Yukiko): What? No! Of course not! I think under the circumstances, you're allowed to whine all you want. In fact, I think you're whining a lot less than I have been lately. Which--wow, which makes me sound pretty damn pathetic.

Yukiko (to Victor): You're not pathetic... Um, your cousin said something to me about what your parents had to do to get me free of my brother, but I think I was still in a bit of shock from my parents & that creepy girl... Do I actually want to know what they did?

Victor (to Yukiko): Oh... God, this is--this is VERY embarrassing, but apparently my mom had to tell your brother that they were, um... they were interested in you for--uh--for me. According to Seph, it was the only way he would agree to the deal. He said he was worried about you being abandoned. I'm sorry.

Yukiko (to Victor): E ~e~tsu! Watashi wa ani o korosu tsumorida! I can't believe he would do something like that... Oh wait... After everything I've learned about my family in the last week or so, I shouldn't be surprised, though... I am so embarrassed. God, I should have run off, instead of all of that... I'm so sorry.

Victor (to Yukiko): Please don't feel that way. Please. You can't help who your family is. I'm glad you didn't run away. I'm really glad.

Yukiko (to Victor): When I stomped off he was referring to all of his sisters as property & saying stuff about all of the funny ideas I was getting while I was over here & how it needed to be stopped.

Victor (to Yukiko): Oh my God... Damn. No wonder my parents were so pissed. Seph said my dad looked like he was going to shoot someone.

Yukiko (to Victor): I'm very grateful that your parents helped me... I just wish there had been another way.

Victor (to Yukiko): Yeah. I do too. I'm glad they were able to help, at least. I mean, if they hadn't... I know I keep saying this over and over, but I'm so sorry. I wish I knew what else to say.

Yukiko (to Victor): So, you don't hate me?

Victor (to Yukiko): No! Of course not. You're not sick of me, are you?

Yukiko (to Victor): No. I was just worried, because it sounds like we're kinda stuck with each other for a little while.

Victor (to Yukiko): Oh, well, you're not under any obligation to me or my parents, of course, but I certainly don't mind if you WANTED to stay.

Yukiko (to Victor): Oh, good. Because, I'd like to stay with you-- I mean, here. Gee, look at the stars. They're SOOO bright tonight.

Victor (to Yukiko): Heh. As much as I would really like to stay here and keep kissing you, I should head home. I'm kind of exhausted. I'll come see you as soon as I'm able.

Yukiko (to Victor): Oh, alright. I guess I should let you go home.

Victor (to Yukiko): Heh. Unfortunately, yes. I heard my dad's car leave earlier, so it looks like I'm walking.

Yukiko (to Victor): Oh okay... If I was still living at the dorms, I'd have asked you to stay... So, it's probably a good thing that I don't… Good night, Victor!

Victor (to Yukiko): Good night.