Hiiri (to Delphine): How good to see you, Delphine! I'm so sorry that we had to drag you away from your usual haunts.
Delphine (to Hiiri): Do not toy with me, Hiiri darling. You know as well as I do, that the only thing that keeps me out of CLANNG's cells is my willingness to work for you. So, let's stop with the games. What do you want?
Hiiri (to Delphine): Straight to the point, I like that. I need you to use your little "gift" to see if you can find any other skippers. The ones we have are not nearly powerful enough for the task at hand. Do you think you can do it?
Delphine (to Hiiri): Of course, darling. I'll need some time to make my rounds. A month?
Hiiri (to Delphine): I'll give you three weeks... and I have already placed your deposit in the usual account.
Delphine (to Hiiri): Oh? In that case, darling, three weeks should be plenty of time. Please, give my regards to Director Carver.
Hiiri (to Delphine): Not to worry, if you fail you'll be seeing him soon enough.
Onboard the borrowed airship, on the edge of British airspace:
Aiden (to Poppy): Miss Poppy, do you really think it was a good idea to let the others go off without us?
Poppy (to Aiden): Not at all, honey. It's probably a terrible idea. But, that is why you, Nate & I are staying onboard this airship while they're on the Mirrored Queen. You know, just in case. Unlike my husband who is trusting to a fault, I always assume a pirate is going to do what a pirate does best... which is essentially whatever profits them the most. They're a sneaky lot. So, we're going to stay just out of range of the Mirrored Queen's sensors and keep an eye on them without looking like we're keeping an eye on them, until we know they're safely done. Vincent will signal me if there's trouble.
Aiden (to Poppy): Heh. I guess that's why you're the boss.
Poppy (to Aiden): Well, there's that, honey, and no one else wanted the job. :-P
Aiden (to Poppy): Fair enough. I'm going to go wake up Nate.
A few minutes later, in the living quarters:
Aiden (to Nathaniel): Nate? I brought you some coffee.
Nathaniel (to Aiden): I'm up. Thanks. I think my stomach will be alright with that. Aunt Poppy gave me some ginger tablets which have helped.
Aiden (to Nathaniel): Sorry for the rough ride...The stabilizers are a bit wonky on this ship. We "borrowed" it from a friend of the Potters since we had a slightly larger crew than the Falcon or Sister could support. It clearly needs some maintenance.
Nathaniel (to Aiden): It's alright. I think I can survive an upset stomach. Heh. I had no idea I got airsick. Anyway, I'm vertical, and currently not puking my guts out... So, uh, need help with, you know, uh, airship stuff?
Aiden (to Nathaniel): I've got to go check the cargo hold to make sure everything is secure. I could use some help, if you'd like.
Nathaniel (to Aiden): Oh yeah. Sure. I didn't even know we had cargo. I thought we were tailing the other ship to make sure my uncle and cousin are alright. Heh. Course I think I was sick when Aunt Poppy was doing the grand tour...
Aiden (to Nathaniel): We are tailing the other ship. There was cargo already onboard, it's going back to the base with us in New London. It's mostly medical supplies and dry food.
Nathaniel (to Aiden): Oh yeah. I should have thought of that, huh?
A short time later, in the cargohold:
Nathaniel (to Aiden): This all looks pretty fucking secured. Lots of, um, straps. Strapping shit down.
Aiden (to Nathaniel): Heh... Check them, like this... The turbulence can sometimes cause the crates to shift away from the walls, loosening up the lines. You have to check them periodically, otherwise, the goods could get damaged.
Nathaniel (to Aiden): Oh! Yeah, so I see. Oof! Shit! This one is heavier than it looks. ...It's alright! I got it. I think.
Aiden (to Nathaniel): Here, Nate, let me help you with that...
Nathaniel (to Aiden): Thanks. Heh. So much for impressing you with my manliness.
Aiden (to Nathaniel): Heh. You don't have to impress me... but, you do have to help me move this crate. I'm not Hercules over here.
Nathaniel (to Aiden): I'm trying! Jesus Christ! What's in here? Anvils? Lead Weights?
Aiden (to Nathaniel): Soup, I think. At least, that's what it says.
Nathaniel (to Aiden): Soup my ass! That thing was WAY too heavy. Unless those are some fucking huge cans of soup, it's probably knives or some shit. A giant crate full of knives.
Aiden (to Nathaniel): Well, I was told food & medical supplies. If your aunt doesn't want us to know what's in the crates, I'm certainly-- What are you doing, Nate?
Nathaniel (to Aiden): What's it look like? Looking in the crate. Look, if it were really knives or shit, she'd tell you, right? Why wouldn't she? If it's really soup or shit, I'll fess up. But, what if it's something we should... Oh holy shit!
Aiden (to Nathaniel): What the hell is it, Nate? ... That is definitely not soup.
Nathaniel (to Aiden): No. Not even a little bit. (to Charles) Get the fuck out of there! (to Aiden) Seriously. Stowaways? This is a thing that happens?
Aiden (to Nathaniel): Not often, but it does happen. to Charles) How in the world did you get onboard? Who are you?
Charles (to Nathaniel & Aiden): I don't believe either of those questions are any of your concern, ruffian! Unhand me!
Nathaniel (to Aiden & Charles): Ruffian?
Aiden (to Charles): I beg your pardon, young man, but you're in no position to make demands. Who are you?
Charles (to Nathaniel & Aiden): I've said all that I'm inclined to say to either of you.
Nathaniel (to Charles): Goddamn. And do you realize you smell like a fucking street fair and sewer had a baby?
Poppy (to Charles, Aiden & Nathaniel): Well then, perhaps you'll explain yourself to me, honey.
Charles (to Poppy): Madam, you should take care in the company you keep. These two * gentlemen* are thoroughly uncivilized.
Poppy (to Charles): Heehee. Honey, you keep talking like that you're going to hurt Aiden & Nate's feelings. Now, could you please tell us who you are and how you came to be on this airship?
Charles (to Poppy): You wouldn't... You won't throw me out of the cargo hold, will you?
Nathaniel (to Poppy, Aiden & Charles): Ha ha ha! Oh... Heh. Sorry. Sorry! It's not funny. It's just... heh. Holy shit!
Poppy (to Charles): Not unless you give me a reason to, honey. You're not going to do that, are you? (to Aiden & Nathaniel) Sweeties, why don't you go check our course and get some lunch made while I talk to our guest?
Aiden (to Poppy): Yes, ma'am. (to Nathaniel) Come on, Nate.
Nathaniel (to Aiden & Poppy): Y'all are the bosses. (to Charles) Later, Skunk Boy!
Charles (to Nathaniel): MY--My name isn't Skunk Boy, you arrogant Yankee! It's Charles Turner the Second, and you had best remember it!
Poppy (to Charles): Charles Turner the Second? Are we supposed to be impressed, honey? And, you seriously need a bath & a change of clothes or you will have to get used to the nickname.
Charles (to Poppy): Unfortunately, my current circumstances have not afforded me very many opportunities for proper hygiene. I apologize, madam.
Poppy (to Charles): Come with me, honey. Let's get you cleaned up first & then you can tell me all about yourself.
Charles (to Poppy): I'm afraid I've told you more than I should, already. You are under no obligation to provide me with any charity, but if you are inclined to throw me out of the ship, may I ask you to shoot me first. The alternative seems dreadful.
Poppy (to Charles): Calm down, honey, we're not going to throw you off the airship. You've been reading too many adventure novels. And, you haven't told me much of anything other than your name. Did you jump onboard in Liverpool? Or have you been in the cargohold long before that?Are you in trouble? Is there somewhere we can drop you? ... After your shower.
Charles (to Poppy): ... I boarded in Liverpool. I really CAN'T tell you more than that, madam. If I do, it won't matter whether or not you heave from the ship mid-flight. I'll be as good as dead upon my arrival back in Liverpool.
Poppy (to Charles): Oh, is that right, honey? What on earth could you have done that would cause you to end up dead? By the way, my name is Poppy Meriwether. And, you already met my nephew, Nathaniel & his gentleman, Aiden.
Charles (to Poppy): Oh. Oh dear. Madam, I feel I am honor bound to warn you that both the British government and several rather, um, unsavory factors are looking for you. I don't mean to terrify you, but you should know there are such dangers pressing around you.
Poppy (to Charles): Honey, we know plenty about unsavory factors. I hate to break it to you but you're not telling us anything we don't already know. We will be rendezvousing with another ship soon & then we will be heading back to New London. Can we drop you somewhere? Here's a clean set of clothing for you.
Charles (to Poppy): Oh. Well, I'm glad for that. Thank you very much. You can drop me wherever you like in New London, Miss Meriwether.
Poppy (to Charles): Not to worry, honey. The washroom is the second door on the right.
A few moments later, in the living quarters:
Nathaniel (to Poppy): So what's the story with, Little Sir Skunky?
Poppy (to Nathaniel): I'm not quite sure, honey. Other than his name & warning me about things we already know about, he's been quite tight-lipped. He seems a bit of a posh lad judging by his accent, but I don't recognize his name.
Nathaniel (to Poppy): He thinks something of it from the way he was throwing it around. Heh. That's the first damn time I've been called a Yankee.
Aiden (to Nathaniel & Poppy): There's a Bishop Charles Turner in Canterbury but I don't believe he has children.
Nathaniel (to Poppy & Aiden): Heh. Want me to go quiz him on Bible verses? Wait... Is the Bible the same on this side as the other? Holy shit! It might not be! That is UNREAL. Tell me there's a passage in it that says the gays are OK. I wanna copy to send to my dad.
Poppy (to Nathaniel): Honey, it's the Church of England. Your father wouldn't accept it as real anyway.
Nathaniel (to Poppy & Aiden): Heh. Oh yeah. Guess not.
Aiden (to Nathaniel): It is a little less wrathful, if it makes you feel any better, Nate.
Nathaniel (to Aiden): Actually, it does. A little bit.
Poppy (to Nathaniel & Aiden): Let me go check on our little guest. Aiden, will you please show Nate how to use the communicator. I was hoping that we would have heard from Vincent by now.
Aiden (to Poppy): Yes, ma'am.
Nathaniel (to Poppy): You think everything is OK?
Poppy (to Nathaniel): It's probably fine... It's just my husband, your uncle has a bit of a tendency to get himself in trouble when dealing with royalty.
Nathaniel (to Poppy): Christ... Why doesn't that surprise me?
Poppy (to Nathaniel): Possibly, because you've met him, honey. :-P Let me go see to the boy.
A few moments later, outside the washroom:
Poppy (to Charles): Honey, are you feeling any better? Would you like some food?
Charles (to Poppy): Thank you, but I would never dream of abusing your hospitality further, Ms Meriwether. I have a bit of food in my possession.
Poppy (to Charles): Bloody 'ell, aren't you just a regular brick. Your airs are getting to me, love. Our food not good enough for the likes of you? I'm beginning to suspect that there's more to you than just a simple stowaway.
Charles (to Poppy): I--I'm sorry, Ms Meriwether. I didn't mean to insult you. May I speak plainly?
Poppy (to Charles): I would really prefer it, honey.
Charles (to Poppy): The only thing I know about you for sure, madam, is that you're wanted by both CLANNG and the government. I thought telling you that I didn't want to overstep the bounds of your hospitality would be more polite than saying I wasn't sure you wouldn't poison me. Better hungry than dead, Ms Meriwether.
Poppy (to Charles): Honey, what are you talking about? For one, I don't poison people. And two, how do you know who I am?
Charles (to Poppy): I only know you by reputation, and even that information is rather spartan. I lived with my mother until very recently, and there aren't very good options for young men with more manners and good breeding than money, I'm afraid. I found myself--indebted to some rather disreputable individuals. As much as I would like to honor my obligations I... I ran. CLANNG has been encouraging street gangs to look for you, your husband and your son, Ms Meriwether.
Poppy (to Charles): Oh... Let me guess, Achilles Smith has taken his gang to Liverpool? And, you've gotten yourself involved with a rival gang & you came looking for us to make a name for yourself?
Charles (to Poppy): Certainly not! I'm not simple! I would be slaughtered if I tried to take on you or your family by myself. Besides, I'm not an assassin. I would never shoot someone in the back. It's unseemly. I'm... I'm trying to get away from Achilles. I didn't realize who you were until you told me your name. I would very much like to stay away from Achilles, especially since he'll kill me for trying to escape. Unfortunately, I don't know if that's possible. I didn't have anyplace to go before the Smith Gang. I could go to a rival gang, I suppose. I'd really rather not.
Poppy (to Charles): Calm down, Charles. I didn't mean to upset you. I just needed you to be truthful & people tend to be better about that when they're feeling misrepresented & angry. And, if you would like help staying away from Achilles, I'm a very good person to know… Honey, how old are you?
Charles (to Poppy): I turned 12 a few months ago.
Poppy (to Charles): ... Oh. My husband is going to kill me for saying this, but you are more than welcome to stay with us. Besides, I could use a smart, resilient survivor like yourself, if you're interested?
Charles (to Poppy): Thank you for your offer, Ms Meriwether. I really do appreciate it, but I'm more than old enough to take care of myself. If you know someone who could help, however, I would be most appreciative. My father would no doubt be horrified to hear it, but I'm not above menial labor. I'll run errands, keep shop, almost anything. I can read and write! I, ahem, excuse me.
Poppy (to Charles): I actually know just the place, honey... I have some friends that run an inn in New London & they're expecting a baby. They could use an extra hand. It comes with room & board and the work isn't too menial. And, a lad with your skills would definitely come in handy there. That is, if you're willing.
Charles (to Poppy): Yes! I beg your pardon. I mean, that would be most excellent. I would very much appreciate it. I would owe you a very large debt of gratitude, Ms Meriwether. And despite my history with Achilles, I promise you that you can count on me if you need anything, madam. If it's within my power, upon my word, you have but to ask.
Poppy (to Charles): Thank you, honey, but that's not necessary. As soon as we meet up with my husband & our merry band. I'll take you to the inn. Now, let's get some food in you. You look starving.
Charles (to Poppy): Thank you. For everything. I can't imagine that there is any truth to the slander Achilles is spreading about you, madam. You're an angel made real.
Poppy (to Charles): You're too sweet, honey. Achilles holds a very old grudge against me, not to mention that he would say anything to make himself sound better than he is… And, just so we're clear, if I find out this was all an elaborate trick to hurt me and mine, there will not be a corner of this world safe for you to hide. Do you understand? Otherwise, we will treat you as one of our own and make sure no harm comes to you. And, keep you safe from the gangs & anyone else who might be looking for you.
Charles (to Poppy): I wouldn't betray you for anything in this world, madam. You have my word.
Poppy (to Charles): I'm very happy to hear that.
A moment later, in the living quarters:
Poppy (to Nathaniel): Nate honey, what on earth are you making in here? It smells delicious.
Nathaniel (to Poppy): Hey! It's, uh, stew, I guess. Emma has been teaching me to cook. (to Charles) Hey, Sir Skunky! You look much better. And you smell about a thousand times better.
Poppy (to Nathaniel): Heh. Nate Jones, this is Charles Turner. (to Charles) Charles, this is my nephew, Nate.
Charles (to Nathaniel & Poppy): *You* may call me, Mr. Turner.
Nathaniel (to Charles): Ha ha ha! Love your optimism, Charlie. From the way you're sniffing, I'm guessing you're hungry. Sit down, stop making that face, and I'll get you a bowl. (to Poppy) We got a hold of Uncle Vincent. He's OK so far. Said there's been a bunch of family drama, but he's "making friends." I don't know what that means, but it kinda scares me.
Charles (to Nathaniel): ... Yes, thank you.
Poppy (to Nathaniel): Dear god... It means that he is saying incredibly inappropriate things to royalty & that I may be a widow soon... I'm just kidding, honey. He, by any chance, didn't say anything else, did he? Anything that seemed odd? Well, odder than usual for him. Perhaps, something directed at me?
Nathaniel (to Poppy): Yeah. What was it? "Tell my darling wife that I may have ruined my best shirt, but don't worry, the stain should come out". (to Charles) Here you go, Charlie.
Charles (to Nathaniel): My name is NOT Charlie. You may call me Charles. ... Thank you for the food.
Poppy (to Nathaniel): ... Damn. He will never learn. (to Charles & Nathaniel) If you'll excuse me both, I'll just go relieve Aiden at the helm, so he can eat.
Nathaniel (to Poppy): What? What does that mean?
Poppy (to Nathaniel): It means, he more than likely got himself shot or stabbed. Again. And, that we are to head to the alternate rendezvous point. It'll be fine. We may have to dip into the medical supplies onboard sooner than I would like, though. If you need anything, I'll be on the bridge, honey.
Nathaniel (to Poppy): Oh. Shit. Alright. Want me to bring you some food in a minute, or are you kinda not in the mood to eat?
Poppy (to Nathaniel): Coffee is fine for right now, honey. If you could make sure that Charles doesn't eat all of it, I'd be grateful. :-P
Charles (to Poppy): Excuse me. I heartily apologize, madam. I haven't eaten in a few days.
Nathaniel (to Poppy): Heh. I'll do my best. (to Charles) Slow your roll, Charlie. Leave some for everyone else. Lemme make you something else.
A few minutes later, on the bridge:
Poppy (to Aiden): Aiden, you should go grab some food while there's still some left. I'll take it from here. I need to change our course.
Aiden (to Poppy): Yes, ma'am.
A moment later, in the living quarters:
Nathaniel (to Aiden): Hey! You hungry? I've got our stowaway bottomless pit momentarily satiated with grilled cheese.
Aiden (to Nathaniel): Starving. Thank you. (to Charles) Well, you definitely look much more like a real boy under all that filth.
Nathaniel (to Aiden): Heh. Here you go. (to Charles) Don't pout, Charlie. Believe me, it's an *improvement.*
Charles (to Nathaniel & Aiden): My name is NOT Charlie. How many times do I have to explain this to you? And my former state of rather, um, unfortunate hygiene was not by choice, I assure you.
Aiden (to Charles): Please excuse Nate, Mr Turner. He's not used to proper civility. There's rumors that he was raised by wolves. :-P
Charles (to Aiden): I shouldn't doubt it.
Nathaniel (to Aiden & Charles): Right fucking here, you know. And if all y'all wanna eat again, I'd be nice to me. Or you can make your own food. Plus, no shit I was raised by wolves. Everyone in America is.
Charles (to Nathaniel & Aiden): That isn't true! It's... It's not true, is it?
Aiden (to Nathaniel): You are incredibly sexy when you're indignant... And, you know, I was just teasing. (to Charles) It's not true. Mostly. Though, I've met a few folks from the colonies that definitely seemed like they were raised by wolves.
Nathaniel (to Aiden): Yeah? Well, I wish I could say you were sexy when you were being a stuffy dick... Heh. I'm just kidding. You know you're hot as shit. (to Charles) Lower your eyelids, Charlie. We're not making out in front of you or anything.
Charles (to Aiden & Nathaniel): My... My apologies, gentlemen. I'm not accustomed to people being so physically affectionate in front of me.
Aiden (to Nathaniel & Charles): Yes, it's one of the sad truths about our home... Mister Turner, forgive my rudeness I forgot to introduce myself. I'm Aiden Wilkes.
Charles (to Aiden): Oh. I rather hope that's no relation to Lord Wilkes, sir. I should apologize for my behavior, then. I have not been, um... I haven't been at my best lately.
Aiden (to Charles): I'm sorry to say that Lord Wilkes is my father, but not to worry, I'm a great disappointment to him. Your manners are fine.
Nathaniel (to Aiden & Charles): Yeah, yeah, yeah. You fucking British and your posh fucking manners. (to Charles) Here. Here's another sandwich. How long you been living on the streets?
Charles (to Aiden): Oh. I thank you for that, sir. (to Nathaniel) How did you know that I'd been living... I've had some difficult times lately?
Aiden (to Charles): Please, just call me Aiden. May I call you Charles or is there something else that you prefer?
Charles (to Aiden): Charles is fine. Thank you.
Aiden (to Charles): What or whom were you hiding from, Charles?
Nathaniel (to Charles): Don't freak, kid. When we found you, you were dirty, you smelled like ass, and you were hiding in a crate of soup cans. All that adds up to someone who doesn't have a lot of other options. I took a guess. Plus, the way you've been eating? You haven't had anything for a couple of days.
Charles (to Nathaniel): Oh. You're much smarter than you pretend to be. (to Aiden) After my mother's death, I got myself involved in some... Rather, I became embroiled with some rather unsavory people. I--I didn't want to consort with that kind of person any longer.
Aiden (to Charles): Oh well, happy to have you onboard then. Miss Poppy & family seem to have a knack for picking up strays that need help. And, thankfully, you are in very good company.
Nathaniel (to Aiden): Heh. As one of the strays, he isn't lying. Do you REALLY want another grilled cheese? That'll be your third.
Charles (to Nathaniel & Aiden): Yes, please. Thank you. Thank you, both.
Meanwhile, in the library, at the Winter Palace, St. Petersburg, Russia:
Vincent (to Ariadne): We're getting ready to leave, sweetie. Do you want to come with us? Captain de Beauville and the Romanovs are both jockeying for you to stay with them. What do you want to do?
Ariadne (to Vincent): I'd actually like to go back with you, if that's okay? I think I've had my fill of family bonding for a long while.
Vincent (to Ariadne): Heh. I know the feeling all too well, hun. Come on. Let's go fetch Victor before that cousin of yours decides they're engaged.
Ariadne (to Vincent): Heh. Yeah, Nadia seems to REALLY like Victor... Why didn't he tell her he was spoken for?
Vincent (to Ariadne): Hee hee. Because unlike his father, he has a very good sense of self-preservation. Best not to anger the Russian royal family WHILE in Russia. Come on. Let's get out of here. We're going to have a bit of trouble with your mother, I think, and I'd rather have that argument with her when we're in more friendly airspace. :-P
Ariadne (to Vincent): I'm sorry for causing you trouble. Should we portal out of here?
Vincent (to Ariadne): We will if we have to. I'd rather leave by more conventional means, if possible. It's not smart to broadcast our abilities right now. Plus CLANNG is searching for skippers. Between you and my son, if we jump, it will be like we set a bonfire of neon signs ablaze to announce our location. Always keep your Ace hidden until you need it, hun. ;-)
Delphine (to Vincent): That, my sexy friend, would be very good advice under normal circumstances. However, having multiple skippers in one place works like a giant lighthouse for those who know how to look for it.
Ariadne (to Vincent & Delphine): Dude! Who the hell are you?
Vincent (to Delphine): Aren't you adorable? What can we do for you, sweetie? I would HATE to have to stab you. It would *ruin* that gorgeous blouse.
Delphine (to Ariadne): I'm a finder of lost things. (to Vincent) Oh, Captain Potter, I was really hoping that you'd be the one I found first. My employer will be quite pleased with me. I smell a bonus in my future. I don't know where the other skippers are, it's true but I've seen your picture before.
Vincent (to Delphine): Since no one here is lost, why don't you toddle off? You seem to have confused the Russian's experiments with portal generators with actual skippers, I'm afraid.
Delphine (to Vincent): And, I know exactly who & what you are. You may have that little pig sticker but I have a gun. (to Ariadne) Oh, don't wander off, my little pretty.
Vincent (to Delphine): Good heavens. You get yourself out of a few snug situations, and people start all KINDS of interesting rumors about you. As if I don't have a gun. I'll let you find it if you're VERY lucky. Even you aren't stupid enough to try to shoot a member of the Russian royal family, hun. IN RUSSIA. (to Ariadne) And yes, Hari. You SHOULD wander off.
Ariadne (to Delphine & Vincent): I wasn't wandering off.
Vincent (to Ariadne): Hari. Go. Go make my apologies to your family. I'm sure they're going to be wondering where I am shortly.
Delphine (to Vincent): My, aren't you a fierce one? (to Ariadne) Ow! What di--
Ariadne (to Vincent): Sorry I didn't listen. Is she dead?
Vincent (to Ariadne): No. She's alive. Thank you, hun. I suppose it's time we take the shortcut home. Let's round up Victor, and let your family deal with whoever this fabulous little piece of rough is.
Ariadne (to Vincent): Okay. Should we tie her up?
Vincent (to Ariadne): Already on it. Ooch. As much as I can with this bloody arm. I'm also slapping this little number on her. Hopefully, it'll keep her from skipping. You must be one powerful skipper, or else I don't think she could have tracked us. Victor and I are both wearing inhibitors. I didn't think you'd need one. That's what I get for assuming. Fortunately, she thinks *I'm* the one she picked up.
Ariadne (to Vincent): Here, let me help. We don't want you straining that arm too much. Vincent, she doesn't have any kind of devices on her... How was she tracking us?
Vincent (to Ariadne): I'm guessing she can do it naturally. Victor can. ... Shit.
Ariadne (to Vincent): What is it?
Vincent (to Ariadne): She's working for CLANNG, which means she's working for Hiiri... It's alright, hun. Is she secure?
Ariadne (to Vincent): Yes, I got an A+ on knot tying in the Girl Scouts… I'll go get Victor.
Vincent (to Ariadne): Thanks, hun. I'll be up in a heartbeat.
A short time later, in the conservatory:
Ariadne: Boszhe moy! (to Victor & Nadia) Victor! Nadia! ... Sorry for the interruption, Victor, but your father needs you out in the foyer. RIGHT NOW!
Nadia (to Ariadne): Ukhodi, moy dorogoy kuzen ! My zanyaty polucheniyem uznatสน drug druga gorazdo luchshe.
Victor (to Ariadne): No apology necessary, Hari. You have EXCELLENT timing. (to Nadia) It was... It was very, um, nice meeting you Nadia, but I have to go.
Nadia (to Victor): Eto nastoyashchiy pozor , moy krasivyy drug. Do sleduyushchego raza.
Meanwhile, in the library:
Vincent (to Delphine): No need to pretend you're still unconscious, darling. I know you came around about a minute ago.
Delphine (to Vincent): Well, aren't you a clever one, then? I had always been told that you were handsome & smart, but photos don't do you justice. Mon dieu, my head is killing me. What did that girl hit me with?
Vincent (to Delphine): Keep flattering me. It will get you OH so much traction... You're working for Hiiri. Don't bother denying it, hun. I know.
Delphine (to Vincent): Oh, I'm not denying it, honey bunny. I am working for Hiiri right this second... but, I could work for you.
Vincent (to Delphine): Oh? I suppose my rakish good looks and charming demeanor have made you rethink your evil alliances, eh? Pull the other one.
Delphine (to Vincent): No, not at all... I work for the highest bidder.
Vincent (to Delphine): Heh. Well, in that case, I must, regretfully I'm sure, turn you down. Hiiri controls all of CLANNG. I can hardly compete. I'm about to turn you over to the Russian royal family. If you're smart, you'll pretend to stay locked up. If you're not smart, and you go back to that mechanical monster, be a dear, and pass along this message to her, won't you?
Delphine (to Vincent): Oh, Captain Handsome, you are funny! As if this was the first time I've ever been locked up by a royal family. What's the message, loverboy? I'll admit, I'm probably going to go back. She owes me the rest of my money.
Vincent (to Delphine): Remind her that I've already killed her once, and that this time I'm older. I have SO much more to lose than 16 years ago. Also, next time, I might not be so inclined to make the distinction between "pure evil" and "working for pure evil," hun. Fair warning. Enjoy your stay in Siberia. I've heard it's terrible this time of year.
Delphine (to Vincent): Not to worry, honey bunny, I like the cold.
Vincent (to Delphine): Glad to hear it. Good luck, sweetie. If I were you? I'd find a safer line of work. Toodles.
Delphine (to Vincent): I'm sure I'll be seeing you again real soon, loverboy.
Vincent (to Delphine): Awww. You're darling when you try to be threatening, hun. For your sake, I hope not.
A few moments later, in the foyer:
Vincent (to Victor & Ariadne): Alright, kids. Ready to go? I can honestly say, I've had MORE than enough of this cold.
Ariadne (to Vincent & Victor): Please tell me, it's time to blow this very fancy popsicle stand.
Victor (to Vincent & Ariadne): I certainly hope so.
Vincent (to Victor & Ariadne): Let's get someplace a bit more private, and I'll get us home, shall I?
Ariadne (to Vincent & Victor): Yes, let's go. There's an empty room over to the left.
Vincent (to Victor & Ariadne): Thank you, hun. I'm sure your family's guards will take care of our friend.
Victor (to Vincent & Ariadne): Dad, what's going on?
Vincent (to Victor): It's a long story, kiddo. (to Ariadne) Is the coast clear?
Ariadne (to Victor & Vincent): All is clear!
Vincent (to Ariadne): Thank you, sweetie. (to Victor) Turn off your inhibitor, and get us to our plan B rendezvous point, will you, kiddo?
Ariadne (to Vincent & Victor): I can take us & I'm not inhibited... Heh.
Victor (to Vincent & Ariadne): Heh. Nah, it's OK. I know where we're headed Alright. Everyone grab a hold.
Ariadne (to Vincent & Victor): Holding onto dear life.
A moment later, on a beach, Normandy, France:
Victor (to Ariadne & Vincent): Whoo! That was... WOW! I have NEVER done that with two other skippers. Heh. That was something. I mean, I have, but it was Nate, and he's not... WOW. You are something else, Hari! Dad! Get Mom on the horn.
Ariadne (to Victor & Vincent): Dude! You are not kidding. Tingly. You're such a sweet talker. If you were ten years older, I would kiss you, Victor.
Vincent (to Ariadne): Down, girl. (to Victor) Already on it, son of mine. (to Poppy) Lover? Can you read us?
Poppy (to Vincent): Yes, honey. I got your message. We're three minutes away from the alternate rendezvous point. Is everyone in one piece?
Vincent (to Poppy): The kids are fine, and I'm more in one piece than less.
Poppy (to Vincent): Hmmm... I should warn you, lover, we found a young stowaway onboard. Other than being a bit smitten with me, he's harmless. I offered to take him back to the inn for employment & a safe haven.
Vincent (to Poppy): Really? Hee hee hee. Well, I can't blame his tastes, darling. I'll see you shortly. I miss you.
Poppy (to Vincent): We'll be there soon. I love you.
Vincent (to Poppy): I love you too. (to Victor & Ariadne) Our ride should be here soon.
A few minutes later:
Poppy (to Vincent): There you are, lover! What did you do to yourself now? (to Victor & Ariadne) Hello, kiddies!
Vincent (to Poppy): Mmmm, nothing that you can't fix, I'm sure. Heh heh. (to Victor & Ariadne) Ready to go?
Ariadne (to Vincent): Yes!
Victor (to Poppy): It's dad's left arm, Mom. Hari's mom and one of the Romanov's got into a fight. Dad stopped it. He's lucky he wasn't run through.
Poppy (to Vincent & Victor): Well, thank goodness for small favors. Let's get out of here & make our way back to New London. You really should try to have at least one clandestine meeting where you don't get hurt, lover. Go take your tight-fitting pants to the living quarters so I can take a look at that arm of yours.
Victor (to Poppy & Vincent): I can fly us home.
Poppy (to Victor): Very good, honey. Aiden was on the bridge doing the calculations last I checked.
Vincent (to Victor): Thanks, kiddo. (to Poppy) I'm all yours, lover.
Victor (to Poppy & Vincent): Yes, ma'am. I'll go give him a hand.
Poppy (to Victor): Thank you, honey.
A few minutes later, on the bridge of the borrowed airship:
Victor (to Ariadne): Hari? Will you go let Nate and our latest lost soul know we're all fine? I also suppose we'll all want to put inhibitors on. Joy.
Ariadne (to Victor): Yes, of course.
Meanwhile, in the infirmary:
Vincent (to Poppy): Hun? I am feeling distinctly less awesome than I was an hour ago...
Poppy (to Vincent): Oh lover, let's get you fixed up & get you tucked into a bunk.
A few minutes later, in the living quarters:
Ariadne (to Nathaniel): Hey there! We're back & heading to New London.
Nathaniel (to Ariadne & Charles): Yeah? Is everyone aboard and in one piece?
Ariadne (to Nathaniel): Yeah, pretty much. Vincent got himself hurt, but it's minor, I think. Who's the half pint? And, why is he staring at me?
Nathaniel (to Ariadne): Well, shit. I guess Aunt Poppy was right then. The shortie is named Charlie. (to Charles) Charlie, this is Hari.
Ariadne (to Nathaniel & Charles): Nice to meet you, Charlie.
Charles (to Nathaniel & Ariadne): My name is NOT Charlie. Mr. Jones has an unfortunate sense of humor. My name is Charles Turner, II. You may call me Charles if you so desire.
Nathaniel (to Ariadne & Charles): I call him Charlie.
Charles (to Nathaniel & Ariadne): Yes. Unfortunately, he does.
Ariadne (to Nathaniel & Charles): Well, at least, he's not calling you Chuck, sweetcheeks.
Charles (to Nathaniel & Ariadne): "Chuck?" Why on earth would he call me Chuck?
Nathaniel (to Ariadne & Charles): Ha ha ha! Oh. Oh, holy shit! Because it's hilarious when you make that face!
Charles (to Nathaniel & Ariadne): Hmmph. I really don't understand why this brings you so much amusement.
Nathaniel (to Ariadne & Charles): Really? I know EXACTLY what's funny about it.
Ariadne (to Nathaniel & Charles): I could explain but it would take way too long.
Charles (to Nathaniel & Ariadne): I shall just assume it's some colonist joke to which I'm not privy. Good night, Ms Hari, Mr. Jones.
Nathaniel (to Ariadne & Charles): A colonist joke? Uh, yeah. Right. There are hammocks in the cargo hold if you need someplace to sleep.
Charles (to Nathaniel): Oh. Yes. Thank you, Mr. Jones.
