Ms. Dvorak (to Charles): Ah, Mister Turner, I was expecting you to turn up sooner or later. (to George) George, be a dear & go make us some tea.
Charles (to Ms. Dvorak): Yes, ma'am. I'm not sure if you can help me or not, Ms. Dvorak, but if you can, I would be extraordinarily grateful.
George (to Ms. Dvorak): Yes, ma'am. Won't be but a moment.
Ms. Dvorak (to Charles): My dear boy, I wouldn't have offered if I didn't have reason to believe that I could help you. Now, tell me everything.
George (to Ms. Dvorak & Charles): Here you are, ma'am… Mister Turner. I brought some crumpets, too.
Ms. Dvorak (to George): You're too good to me. Have a seat. You're going to want to hear this & I hate to explain things twice.
George (to Ms. Dvorak): Yes, ma'am.
Charles (to Ms. Dvorak & George): I...I'm not sure where to start, miss. Last year, my mother became gravely ill. We were forced to take out a mortgage on the home, to try to cover her medical expenses. I... I wasn't able to earn enough to keep up with the payments. When she died, I found myself without a place to live, or the means by which to support myself.
Ms. Dvorak (to Charles): And, Achilles found you & offered to help, I take it, dear?
Charles (to Ms. Dvorak): Yes, ma'am. I was working at the time, as a crossing sweeper mostly... He offered a room in a Lodging House he owned, but I... I was foolish to accept his offer. I found myself deeply indebted to the Smith Gang. Achilles said he knew better ways than sweeping horse muck for a smart, well-spoken boy to earn money.
Ms. Dvorak (to Charles): Well, that is true, dear. However, he's a dirty rat. Always been one since he was a boy. So, what did you take from him when you left his gang, Mister Turner? It's okay, young George here is my inside man, so to speak. He's going to help you put it back or at least a fair facsimile of whatever it is.
Charles (to Ms. Dvorak): Oh... I'm afraid there isn't a facsimile, Ms. Dvorak. It wasn't a "what" that I took, ma'am. It was a "who." I'm not proud of what did when I was with the Smith Gang, but that was too much. I couldn't... I very much appreciate the offer, ma'am. I'm sorry to have wasted your time.
Ms. Dvorak (to Charles): Stop right where you are, young man! … What was your mother's name? Her full name, dear.
Charles (to Ms. Dvorak): Emily Marion Wallace, ma'am. She and my father weren't... They were never formally married.
Ms. Dvorak (to Charles): And, your father's name? How old were you when you last saw him?
Charles (to Ms. Dvorak): Charles David Turner, Jr. I'm the second. I'm not sure how old I was when he last saw me. One or two, I believe? He's stationed overseas in India, I think. I don't really remember much of him. I'm sorry. We used to get letters from him regularly, but they stopped shortly before Mother became ill.
Ms. Dvorak (to Charles): You know, dear, I once heard tell of an Emily Wallace… She was the sweetheart of a very bad man & she took off one day. He was very distraught & spent quite awhile looking for her. When he finally did find her, she had died from pneumonia. Leaving behind her only son… It's a very odd coincidence, don't you think, dear? Though, I would imagine it's a fairly common tale amongst the Smith Gang.
Charles (to Ms. Dvorak): Yes, ma'am.
Ms. Dvorak (to Charles): You know,that's what happened to my dear little Poppy… Sadly, I found her after Smith & his ilk had trained her up... Sorry, I took a stroll down memory lane for a moment there… So, do you want my help or not?
George (to Ms. Dvorak & Charles): He's a lost cause, ma'am. He's gone soft.
Charles (to George & Ms. Dvorak): I haven't gone soft! I may have done some things of which I'm not proud, Mr... whoever you are! But, I think refusing to engage in kidnapping and the trafficking of a young girl is a bit more admirable a trait than not. Going soft, indeed.
Ms. Dvorak (to Charles & George): So, who is the girl, dear?
Charles (to Ms. Dvorak): Her name was Charlotte. She was 7. I'm not sure why Achilles wanted her, or where he was sending her. I wasn't privy to that kind of information. I was supposed to be watching her. I was the only member of the gang who didn't make her scream. I think because I wasn't much taller than she was. Achilles wanted me to keep her from crying. She was upset because her mother was leaving for the Colonies, and she was going to miss the trip if she didn't go to the docks.
Ms. Dvorak (to Charles): Oh, her mother was Achilles' current mistress. He suspected that the girl was his… Not to worry, dear. It's taken care of. As of yesterday morning, Charlotte has been returned to her mother by Mister Fitzroy here & they are both safely hidden. I had already made the arrangements after we spoke at the inn. Word to the wise, never reveal your hand all in one go, dear. You never know who's watching.
George (to Ms. Dvorak): … You're not going to try & teach him, are you, ma'am?
Ms Dvorak (to George): Goodness no. Mister Turner walks a different path, dear. He wants to be an innkeeper. I can see it in his eyes… Though, it may have something to do with someone in the inn that inspires him.
Charles (to Ms. Dvorak & George): I... I'm sure I don't know what you mean, ma'am. To tell the truth, I'd like to survive long enough to have a career.
Ms. Dvorak (to Charles): That's a good lad. You shouldn't have anymore trouble with Mister Smith… Unless, he realizes who your mother was.
Charles (to Ms. Dvorak): ... Achilles knew who my mother was?
Ms. Dvorak (to Charles): Yes, he did. (to George) George, be a dear & go run down to Mrs. Orville's & pick us up some food. Tell her to put it on my account. This is a conversation for Mister Turner & I.
George (to Ms Dvorak): Yes, ma'am… I'll take my time returning.
Ms. Dvorak (to George): Thank you, dear. (to Charles) More tea, dear?
Charles (to Ms. Dvorak): No thank you, ma'am.
Ms. Dvorak (to Charles): I hate to be the bearer of distressing news, but your father is not away in India, dear.
Charles (to Ms. Dvorak): Oh. Am I correct in assuming by your tone that you know where my father is?
Ms. Dvorak (to Charles): Oh my, yes… And, sadly you do too, dear. He would be in Liverpool.
Charles (to Ms. Dvorak): ... Is his name Charles Turner, ma'am?
Ms. Dvorak (to Charles): No, dear. Your dear sainted mother made up that name to protect you. She was the one writing you those letters. There may have been a Charles Turner at some point, but I don't believe he was your father.
Charles (to Ms. Dvorak): Thank you for telling me, ma'am. I-I was rather afraid you were going to tell me something like that.
Ms. Dvorak (to Charles): … Do you understand what I'm telling you, dear? It's nothing to be ashamed of.
Charles (to Ms. Dvorak): I understand, ma'am. Thank you, again. I think I should probably get back to work. Miss Persephone will need help with supper.
Ms. Dvorak (to Charles): Alright, dear. If you need help with anything else, you just let me know.
An hour or so later, at Longfellow Inn; New London, Britannia:
Persephone (to Charles): Charles! You're back! You are the sweetest! You shouldn't have spent this kind of money on me. You should have saved it for a sweetheart. It's just too much.
Charles (to Persephone): Oh! Miss Persephone! There is no need to... please. It's quite alright. I was worried that this might be goodbye. But, happily that is not the case.
Persephone (to Charles): Well, it's just wonderful and… You'll go with me, right?
Charles (to Persephone): Oh. Um, i--if you want me to. I didn't mean to intend that you should invite... I mean...
Persephone (to Charles): Or maybe, you should return them? I don't want you spending all your money on me.
Charles (to Persephone): I'm certainly not returning them! They were a gift.
Persephone (to Charles): … Well good! I can't imagine going with anyone other than you. We'll have such fun. And Mam & Da should be up for running the inn tonight while we're out. Penelope has been sleeping through the night the last few days… Which means I'll be free to wander off soon, so I guess it will be a goodbye, of sorts. Oooo, I have just the dress to wear! I hope you like green. You may want to talk to my Da about some better trousers, though. I don't think you can let those out much more. Soon, you'll be towering over me, instead of being able to touch noses. Heehee. Sorry. I'm just so excited. I'm babbling. So much to do!
Charles (to Persephone): Um, yes. If you insist. I don't think I've ever been to the theater. You must be very excited. I know how much you've been looking forward to running cargo with Mr. Potter.
Persephone (to Charles): Well, you must be excited, too. You'll be Ma's second in command. You won't have to butt heads with me all the time.
Charles (to Persephone): I don't mind working with you, Miss Persephone. I'll miss seeing you every day. Oh! Um... I'll see to getting better trousers as soon as I'm able. I seem to keep getting taller.
Persephone (to Charles): Alright, be ready by 8pm. We don't want to miss the opening act.
Charles (to Persephone): Yes. Of course. I'll get dinner prepped and then get ready.
Persephone (to Charles): I'll go tell my parents we're going out… Oh, and Charles, thank you so much…
Charles (to Persephone): You're very welcome, miss.
George (to Charles): Heh. You got quite a thing for that girl, huh?
Charles (to George): I am very grateful to all the Longfellow family, Mr. Fitzroy. What can I do for you? I do have work to do.
George (to Charles): Oh, Ms. Dvorak wanted me to swing by and check on you. She was concerned after your little tête à tête. Also, she wanted me to get out of her hair for awhile. She's "entertaining", which is code for interrogating.
Charles (to George): Oh. That's rather surprising. You can reassure your employer I am fine. I was rather shocked at the...the details. But I had my suspicions about at least part of her information. Please convey my gratitude to her.
George (to Charles): Alright, I'll send her your regards… You know, you're kind of cute when you're slightly suspicious…
Charles (to George): I--I beg your pardon?
George (to Charles): Heehee… Don't worry, Mister Turner. I'm not supposed to tell anybody this, but I'm a girl, dum-dum.
Charles (to George): Oh? OH! I beg your pardon, sir. I--I mean, miss! And, I'm not scandalized by the idea of gentlemen who prefer the company of each other to young ladies. Despite how soft you may think me, Miss Fitzroy, I am not a complete imbecile.
George (to Charles): Heh… I'll see you later, Mister Turner.
Charles (to George): Oh. Um, yes, Miss Fitzroy, Or...Mister. Whichever you prefer, of course.
George (to Charles): And, it's Mister Fitzroy… for now.
Charles (to George): Good night, Mr. Fitzroy. I really should see to the dinner prep.
Meanwhile, at Poppy & Vincent's apartment, West Piedmont:
Nathaniel, on phone (to Vincent): Um, hi? Uncle Vincent?
Vincent (to Nathaniel): Nate? Is that you? Are you calling on Aiden's phone?
Nathaniel (to Vincent): Oh. Um, yeah. I lost mine when... you know. When I was committed.
Vincent (to Nathaniel): Of course. How are you doing, hun? Do you need anything? Do you MISS us?
Nathaniel (to Vincent): No! I mean, yes, I do kinda... You know! But, that's not why I'm calling. Mrs. Esterly thinks she's got a good lead on what Hiiri's up to, and she wants to talk to you, Aunt Poppy, Victor, and, um... she was hoping Emma. Do you, um... Would you mind coming to dinner? And talking crazy fucking robots?
Vincent (to Nathaniel): That's not a bad idea, Nate. Poppy can't cross over right now, and I doubt my sister will want to travel into Britannia ever again, but the rest of us can certainly compare notes and see what's what. Plus, I know I'd personally like to see you.
Nathaniel (to Vincent): Oh. Um, yeah. That... That'd be good. When can you make it?
Vincent (to Nathaniel): How about tomorrow night, kiddo? That's not too soon, I hope.
Nathaniel (to Vincent): No. That should be fine. Thanks! I'll, um, I mean, we'll see you tomorrow night.
Vincent (to Nathaniel): I'm looking forward to it. See you then, Nate. Take care. We miss and love you!
Zoe (to Vincent): Dad? Who was that on the phone?
Vincent (to Zoe): It was Nate. How would you like to go visit him for dinner tomorrow night?
Zoe (to Vincent): Really!?! I would love to. I miss his stupid grumpy ass.
Vincent (to Zoe): Hee hee. I thought you might. Mrs. Esterly thinks she has some information on Hiiri we can use. Besides I'm sure Nate will be happy to see you.
Zoe (to Vincent): … He didn't mention me at all, huh?
Vincent (to Zoe): Heh. No. He didn't mention any of us, which makes me think he's been missing us like mad. :-P Sometimes it takes a little bit for us Jones boys to admit we're hurt and lonely. ;-)
Zoe (to Vincent): Heehee… Thanks, Dad. So, is it just the two of us going over for dinner?
Vincent (to Zoe): Well, Mrs. Esterly apparently asked for me, your mother, and your aunt. But your mom can't crossover, and your aunt won't. So it looks like it's you, me, and Victor, if he can make it. Do you think Mars might want to come?
Zoe (to Vincent): Hell yeah, she would... I mean, yes.
Vincent (to Zoe): Hee hee. Well then, we'll have to invite her, won't we?
Zoe (to Vincent): You really think Emma won't crossover, even if it's to help Nate?
Vincent (to Zoe): ... Honestly, I don't know, sweetie. And I don't know if I could ask her to do that. She lived alone with Hiiri in Britannia for five years, thinking everyone who loved her either couldn't, or wouldn't, be able to save her. She's allowed to have a hang up about it. If Mouse can't crossover, and Mrs. Esterly thinks it will really help to talk to her, we can always bring her here, you know.
Zoe (to Vincent): That's true… Is it okay if I go see Colin or am I still grounded?
Vincent (to Zoe): ... I suppose. If it's to go get help with your homework, and not for fun reasons. And you're back by curfew at least!
Zoe (to Vincent): Yes, I could use some help with my math homework. See? It's hardly done at all… Thank you, Dad. I love you. You're the best!
Vincent (to Zoe): Heh. You're just saying that because I'm a soft fucking touch. Be back before curfew!
Zoe (to Vincent): I'm not just saying that… I'll be back in time for curfew.
Vincent (to Zoe): Heh. But it doesn't hurt. Love you too, munchkin.
A moment later, in Zoe's bedroom:
Zoe (to Colin): Colin? Are you free for a tutoring session?
Colin (to Zoe): Hey! Yeah! I thought you were grounded forever and a day.
Zoe (to Colin): I am, but Dad said I could come see you if it was for schoolwork & I have to be back by curfew. So, are you free?
Colin (to Zoe): I am free. I will MAKE myself free.
Zoe (to Colin): Heehee. Should I come to your house or meet somewhere?
Colin (to Zoe): Heh. Well, that depends on if you actually need help with your homework or not. Is math giving you a problem again?
Zoe (to Colin): I do need help with my stupid math… You seriously want to help me with it, don't you? Heh. you're such a nerd. :-P
Colin (to Zoe): Well, I mean, if you seriously need help with it, yeah! I didn't wanna assume that you were calling cause of... you know.
Zoe (to Colin): Oh… Well, I was kinda hoping we could do that, too.
Colin (to Zoe): Again, I will MAKE SURE I'm at your beck and call. Where do you wanna meet?
Zoe (to Colin): I'll be on your porch in just a minute.
Colin (to Zoe): Heh. OK! I'll see you there in a minute.
Zoe (to Colin): See you soon!
A moment later, at Robert & Jacob's house, East Piedmont:
Colin (to Zoe): Oh! Heh. Hey. You really WERE gonna see you soon. Hi! C'mere...
Zoe (to Colin): … OH! Hey yourself.
Colin (to Zoe): Heh. Sorry. Seeing you at school is nice, but seeing you after school is better. Shall we math the maths first?
Zoe (to Colin): Yeah, I got about halfway through the assignment & then I got a bit stuck. Your dads aren't going to mind me being here, are they?
Colin (to Zoe): Nope. I told them you needed help with your homework, so if we do math in the kitchen they won't mind. Then maybe we could, you know, go someplace more private afterwards?
Zoe (to Colin): Yeah, that would nice.
Colin (to Zoe): Heh. Come on, then. Let's go smash your math homework into submission. :-P
Zoe (to Colin): Heh. Okay.
A couple hours later, at the Longfellow Inn; New London, Britannia:
Persephone (to Charles): Charles, are you ready to go? Wow… You look very dashing.
Charles (to Persephone): Do I? Thank you. It is due to Mrs. Longfellow's efforts entirely. She said I looked "a fright" earlier. She insisted I look presentable. I'm glad it turned out acceptable.
Persephone (to Charles): Heehee. It's more than acceptable. Shall we go?
Charles (to Persephone): Very good, then. I was... I was a bit concerned. I didn't want to look like a ragamuffin when in the company of a... You look exquisitely lovely, Miss Persephone. I'm ready.
Persephone (to Charles): Thank you, Charles.
Charles (to Persephone): You're very welcome.
A short time later, on the streets of New London, Britannia:
Persephone (to Charles): Charles, can I ask you something?
Charles (to Persephone): Yes, of course. What is it?
Persephone (to Charles): We look like we're on a date… Are we on a date?
Charles (to Persephone): I-I wasn't...! I mean, that wasn't what I was intending when I gave you the tickets, Miss Persephone! I was... I just... I wanted to say a proper thank you for everything you've done for me, and how very welcome you've made me feel. Mr. Wilkes mentioned you liked the theater, and I thought... I wanted to do something nice for you, miss. I'm... I'm so very sorry I've overstepped my bounds. It won't happen again.
Persephone (to Charles): Oh… And, here I was hoping that it was.
Charles (to Persephone): You... You *were*?
Persephone (to Charles): Of course, I was. It's not everyday a handsome young man buys me tickets to the theater.Why do you think I got dressed up? Besides, it's been quite some time since I was out on date. But, if I was mistaken, I apologize for the assumption & making you uncomfortable, Charles.
Charles (to Persephone): I would... I would be a most fortunate individual if you... If you would be my date for the evening, Miss Persephone. I didn't want to presume and and take advantage of your generous nature, miss.
Persephone (to Charles): Heehee. I've been called a lot of things, Charles, but I'm not sure if generous is one of them. Selfish, irresponsible, childish & foolhardy yes, but generous hardly ever. :-P
Charles (to Persephone): Oh? Oh. You've never been anything but generous to me, miss, so I wouldn't say any of those things about you. Argumentative and pig-headed, maybe, but not any of those other things.
Persephone (to Charles): Heehee, thank you, I think.
Charles (to Persephone): There are certainly worse traits to have. Besides, I was only teasing.
Persephone (to Charles): I know. I was just teasing too... I'm having a nice time.
Charles (to Persephone): Oh. I'm very glad to hear it. I am too. I do hope the play is alright...
Persephone (to Charles): It doesn't matter if it's terrible. It's the company that matters.
Charles (to Persephone): Um, then I'm glad you're enjoying the company, miss.
Persephone (to Charles): You can call me simply Persephone or even, Seph, Charles. No need to be so formal. It's just you & me.
Charles (to Persephone): Oh. Yes, mi-... Persephone. I don't mean to be too formal. My mother always taught me to be respectful, and I... excuse me.
Persephone (to Charles): I'm sorry, Charles, I didn't mean to upset you.
Charles (to Persephone): No, no. I'm sorry, mi-...Persephone. My meeting today with Ms. Dvorak was a bit distressing. I apologize.
Persephone (to Charles): I'm sorry to hear that. Did you get everything taken care of, at least?
Charles (to Persephone): I think so. As long as he doesn't realize who I am, he should leave me alone. Or, more precisely, who my mother was.
Persephone (to Charles): Oh? Who was your mother?
Charles (to Persephone): My mum was a very good woman, but, when she was younger, she was apparently involved with some rather unsavory characters. Specifically, someone in the Smith Gang. Ms. Dvorak thinks that my mother was the one writing the letters from my father.
Persephone (to Charles): Oh, that's terrible. We don't have to talk about this, if you don't want to.
Charles (to Persephone): It's alright. If I were to tell the truth, I rather suspected it after a while, but... It doesn't much matter now, does it? Shall we go in and find our seats?
Persephone (to Charles): Yes, of course.
