A Strange Old World, Day 120

Carver (to Nathaniel): You're late, Mr. Jones. Our Mistress advised us to expect you an hour ago. We don't like to be kept waiting, sir.

Nathaniel (to Carver): What? What the fuck. CARVER?!? I... I'm not supposed to be here. This isn't happening. This CAN'T be happening...

Carver (to Nathaniel): Other Carver agrees... Our Mistress has given us permission to get creative with you, sir. We're going to enjoy this.

Nathaniel (to Carver): Th-this is a dream, isn't it? It has to be a dream.

Carver (to Nathaniel): It's no dream, sir. You're exactly where you belong, Mr. Jones...

Nathaniel: GET THE FUCK AWAY! ...Oh. Heh heh. Oh shit... Nightmare. Heh.

Aiden (to Nathaniel): Nate? Nate, are you alright in here? Bloody hell, the sheets are soaked. Let me open the window and air out the place.

Nathaniel (to Aiden): Aiden! Holy shit, am I glad to see you...

Aiden (to Nathaniel): So, I see… Bad dream?

Nathaniel (to Aiden): Yeah... Heh. It was a good one.

Aiden (to Nathaniel): … So, it wasn't a nightmare?

Nathaniel (to Aiden): What? Oh. Heh. Sorry. I mean, as far as nightmares go, it was a good one. I was late for a meeting with Carver. He'd decided the normal levels of pain weren't enough to make be behave, so he was gonna get "creative." Heh heh. If I'd been naked, all the proper nightmare cliches would have been met.

Aiden (to Nathaniel): Well, that sounds positively horrible.

Nathaniel (to Aiden): Yeah... Heh. Fortunately, he only said something like that once, and the threat was worse than the actual "punishment." Did I miss dinner?

Aiden (to Nathaniel): Yes, but I brought you some. That's why I was in here. Mrs. Esterly & the rest of the family have gone to the theater. There's a production of 'The Magic Flute' being performed & she thought it would be something that Lily would like. And, Seph is using it as an excuse to make out with Joseph in the dark… More than likely.

Nathaniel (to Aiden): Heh. Yeah. I'd say so... Shit. I said I was gonna be better about being around... Sorry.

Aiden (to Nathaniel): Heh. You said you'd try & you are. But, the stuff you've been doing with Mrs. Esterly is clearly kicking your ass. No one is complaining.

Nathaniel (to Aiden): ... I know. I still kinda shitty about it, though. Of course.... I'm not gonna complain about having you to myself for a night. Heh.

Aiden (to Nathaniel): Heh. Shall we stay in or see the sights?

Nathaniel (to Aiden): How about you take me out to dinner, and give this room a chance to get straightened out before we muss it up again?

Aiden (to Nathaniel): I think that sounds very nice.

Nathaniel (to Aiden): C'mere for a minute... I'm not up to anything. I just wanna hug.

Aiden (to Nathaniel): You have but to ask, handsome.

Nathaniel (to Aiden): I'm gonna have to go back to New London soon... I'm gonna miss the shit outta you.

Aiden (to Nathaniel): Wait... What? Is this because of Percy's unexpected arrival? ... I should have bloody well known.

Nathaniel (to Aiden): Yeah. Victor and Zoe are plotting something, and they wanna pick my brain. They're hiding out at Aunt Poppy's bunker.

Aiden (to Nathaniel): How long do you expect to be gone?

Nathaniel (to Aiden): Not fuckin' long if I can help it. The more of us that are in one spot, the more... Wait. Heh heh. No. That's not right. Delphine's dead. I guess we don't gotta worry about that quite as much.

Aiden (to Nathaniel): Delphine's dead... When did that happen?

Nathaniel (to Aiden): I'm not sure. Apparently CLANNG paid a visit to the casino before we arrived. Mr. Bodyguard "took care of it."

Aiden (to Nathaniel): They weren't looking for us, were they?

Nathaniel (to Aiden): No. From what Hari said, they were looking for her... Maybe.

Aiden (to Nathaniel): Then they probably don't know we're here. That's good. I'd hate to get Lily mixed up with all of this any more than she already is... I still don't know how Wilkinson found out about her. She was pretty well hidden. The last thing we need is Carver or Hiiri showing up. Oh damn... I'm sorry, Nate. I shouldn't have brought them up after that dream of yours.

Nathaniel (to Aiden): ... It's alright. I'm alright. Um. Weird question. Would your mom have known about Lilian?

Aiden (to Nathaniel): ... Quite possibly. But, she's been living at Holloway Sanitarium for the last few years after my father's sister said she was getting to be too much of a handful. They're supposed to keep a tight watch on her visitors. Hell, she hasn't let me visit her in quite sometime... I apparently disturb her condition.

Nathaniel (to Aiden): ...Oh. Shit. I'm sorry. I just thought since Wilkinson was posing as your dad's assistant and all...

Aiden (to Nathaniel): That very well could be. Roland did say that Wilkinson had been visiting Mother. I just never thought Father would tell her anything like that... But there had been rumors circulating ISS that he had her committed because she knew too much.

Nathaniel (to Aiden): Maybe he didn't tell her. Maybe Roland did. I mean, he would've been just outta his teens when she was born, right?

Aiden (to Nathaniel): Heh. He would have been 27 when she was born. We're 16 years apart in age. That's why I suspected he might be my father.

Nathaniel (to Aiden): WHAT? No fuckin' way. With all that "youthful indiscretion" talk of his, I thought he'd have been in his teens or some shit.

Aiden (to Nathaniel): More than likely he simply had other affairs but the one with Rose was far more serious. I do believe that's when he got engaged to Beatrice. Probably to curb his behavior. I doubt he was given much of a choice by father.

Nathaniel (to Aiden): ... How long ago did he marry his current wife?

Aiden (to Nathaniel): They were engaged for a year... So, ten years ago. Why?

Nathaniel (to Aiden): Oh. Heh. Never mind, then. Just wondering about the math. From all his talk, I figured Roland was, like, a teenager when he and Rose hooked up. Made me wonder if you were his kid and Lily was your Dad's, which is how your mom would've known about her. It's nothin'. Heh. My head's prolly still not screwed on straight.

Aiden (to Nathaniel): ... Wait. Say that again, Nate.

Nathaniel (to Aiden): What? I was wondering about the math.

Aiden (to Nathaniel): ... Roland said he visited Lily but it was quite clear he hadn't... Did anyone ever think to ask if anyone else had?

Nathaniel (to Aiden): ...You think your dad sent Wilkinson.

Aiden (to Nathaniel): Yes... Of course, my other theory is far worse & I don't even want to say it out loud.

Nathaniel (to Aiden): What's that?

Aiden (to Nathaniel): That she's actually Wilkinson's daughter that Roland & father were hiding as collateral. And, Wilkinson finally figured out where she was, which was why Roland finally "confided" in me. See? I told you... One theory makes Wilkinson the baddie, the other a hapless victim. And none of them make my family look so good.

Nathaniel (to Aiden): ...Yeah. I don't know how much a hapless victim Wilkinson is. No matter who's Lilian's daddy. Heh. Don't make a face. S'not like my family's any better. Ha ha ha! They're just as fucked. C'mon. You know they're just as fucked. In order to keep me from being an embarrassment, they had me "counseled" by a child molester, and then sent me to some bullshit bootcamp when people found out so I wouldn't be an embarrassment to the family. :-P

Aiden (to Nathaniel): Yes, but you're marrying royalty... Well, disgraced royalty, but royalty nonetheless. I bet that would shut up Bubba at the dinner table. ;-p

Nathaniel (to Aiden): Ha ha HA! Holy shit! Yeah it would. Heh... Hell, if you were a girl, my folks would shitting themselves with happiness. Gettin' married... Gotta kid... Heh. Too bad I'm still a filthy sodomite.

Aiden (to Nathaniel): Sadly, I don't look good in drag. Heh. You should take Hari as your girlfriend... She counts as a girl & royalty... Shit. She told me not to say anything about that. Fuck.

Nathaniel (to Aiden): What? Hari's royalty? Heh heh heh. Shit. Why doesn't that surprise me? Prolly cuz my uncle's technically a fuckin' lord. :-P

Aiden (to Nathaniel): Her grandmother is a Grand Duchess & the sister to the current Tsar of the Russian Empire. Which makes Hari a cousin to Empress Victoria... It's very confusing. Especially when you toss in the whole skipping thing. Since in West Piedmont the Romanovs were murdered in 1912.

Nathaniel (to Aiden): Shit. She's the fuckin' Empress's cousin, and Hiiri was using her for fuckin' science experiments? ...Damn. There's no fuckin' stopping her when she gets power, is there?

Aiden (to Nathaniel): Frankly no, that's why everyone is doing what they can to make sure that doesn't happen... C'mere.

Nathaniel (to Aiden): Yeah. I know. It's alright. You know that, right? We're two steps ahead of her this time.

Aiden (to Nathaniel): All thanks to you & your cousin. We stand a damn good chance.

Nathaniel (to Aiden): Oh! Heh... Keep talkin' and holdin' me like that and we'll never get to dinner.

Aiden (to Nathaniel): Heh. Do you really want me to stop?

Nathaniel (to Aiden): Am I acting like a man who wants you to stop? Heh heh. Holy shit. You sure know how to get my fucking attention, you know that? ...Sometimes I think, this has gotta be some kinda dream cuz there's no way I deserve something this good. But, whenever I'm with you --heh AND the Lil' Bit, it feels more fucking right than anything else I can think of.

Aiden (to Nathaniel): I feel the very same way...

Nathaniel (to Aiden): Good. You know what? Get your damn shirt off. Dinner can wait. Heh. Lose the pants too while you're at it.

Aiden (to Nathaniel): Heh. Yes, sir. You are damn sexy when you're being bossy, you know that, right?

Nathaniel (to Aiden): Really? You find that sexier than this?

Aiden (to Nathaniel): C'mere you!

A Strange Old World, Day 119

At Casino de la Renard; Nice, French Republic:

Percy (to Ariadne): Well, hello there, pretty lady… If I had known I would see legs like yours, I would have brought a camera.

Ariadne (to Percy): Where did you get that pickup line? The Dark Ages? … Can I help you with something, sir? Or should I start charging now?

Percy (to Ariadne): Ooooo. You're a feisty one. I like that.

Ariadne (to Percy): … If the next thing out of your mouth is that you like a girl with spirit. You & I are going to have a problem.

Percy (to Ariadne): HAHAHA…I would never say anything SO pedestrian, honey. I'm looking for a Miss Persephone Longfellow. Know where I can find her?

Ariadne (to Percy): I'm sorry, sir, but I'm not at liberty to say the whereabouts of any guests. If you would like to leave a note, I can see if we have such a guest & get the note to them if they are here.

Percy (to Ariadne): Well, aren't you just a stickler for regulations, honey? And, here I was thinking that you looked like the sort to have fun.

Ariadne (to Percy): I like to have lots of fun, sir… But, we've had some issues with unwelcome visitors. Feel free to have a seat in the bar while I make your inquiries. If they are here, I'll have them join you. Alright?

Percy (to Ariadne): … Fine, honey. I'll just have a drink.

A moment later:

Ji Yong (to Ariadne): Is that gentleman at the bar being bothersome, Ms. Fenris?

Ariadne (to Ji Yong): Heh. Only slightly, Mister Yong. He was asking after Miss Persephone. I just sent his note up to her room with a bellhop.

Ji Yong (to Ariadne): Very good. Please let me know if you need assistance.

Ariadne (to Ji Yong): … Did I do something wrong, Mister Yong?

Ji Yong (to Ariadne): ... Why would you think that?

Ariadne (to Ji Yong): Well, it just seems like you've been avoiding me. Is it because of Gee? Did he ask you to hang out with him while he's here? If that's it, I don't mind. I just wanted to know.

Ji Yong (to Ariadne): Ms. Fenris, I really can't discuss this at the moment. Mr. Rodchenko is concerned for the safety of some of his guests, so I've been doing extra security sweeps lately. I'm currently behind schedule... I'm not upset with you. I apologize if I caused you to think otherwise... I really must go. Excuse me.

Ariadne (to Ji Yong): Oh good, I'm glad it's just work keeping you busy… Would you like some help?

Ji Yong (to Ariadne): Yes. That would be excellent. I would appreciate it if you would check the bar and the lounge. I need to walk the floor again.

Ariadne (to Ji Yong): Of course, Mister Yong.

Ji Yong (to Ariadne): Thank you.

Ariadne (to Ji Yong): You had but to ask.

Two hours later, in the bar:

Nathaniel (to Sang Gi): Hey. Anyone sitting here? Heh. No need to pull a damn face. I just wanna grab something to drink. I can move down the line.

Sang Gi (to Nathaniel): Feel free… Sorry for the face. I was just reading a letter from a friend.

Nathaniel (to Sang Gi): Thanks... Can I ask you a question? Feel free to tell me to fuck off, but are you really Mr. Yong's brother?

Sang Gi (to Nathaniel): Mister Yong? You mean, Ji Yong? Yeah, he's my brother.

Nathaniel (to Sang Gi): Heh heh. That answers that.

Sang Gi (to Nathaniel): Did I just help you win or lose a bet? … Wanna drink?

Nathaniel (to Sang Gi): Heh. Neither. Just satisfied my own curiosity, is all. A drink would be fuckin' amazing right about now.

Sang Gi (to Nathaniel): … You look like a man who likes something simple and strong… Whiskey on the rocks?

Nathaniel (to Sang Gi): Heh. More like I'm a guy who likes something that gets the job done. That'll do the trick.

Sang Gi (to Nathaniel): Heh… Good man… (to Bartender) Bartender, two whiskeys with ice, please.

Nathaniel (to Sang Gi): ... Man, I cannot get a bead on you. You're just like your brother, only in the opposite direction.

Sang Gi (to Nathaniel): Oh, here I was hoping that you were hitting on me. You're not hitting on me, are you? Or is this some weird Colonist way of flirting?

Nathaniel (to Sang Gi): Ha ha ha! What? Seriously? Might be for some guys. Not me. If I were coming on to you, you'd know. I ain't real subtle.

Sang Gi (to Nathaniel): Well, that's a shame. Hasn't really been all that much male talent around here to interest me… unless, you like old men, which I don't & most of the women are pay as you go, which is tricky as Ji Yong put me on a very tight budget.

Nathaniel (to Sang Gi): Heh. Sorry to disappoint you, kid. I'm not in the market. I brought my own talent with me.

Sang Gi (to Nathaniel): … Kid, seriously? You're like, at most, a year older than me.

Nathaniel (to Sang Gi): m I? Shit... I might be at that. How old are you? 16?

Sang Gi (to Nathaniel): Seventeen… I turn eighteen in two months.

Nathaniel (to Sang Gi): Heh heh. Yeah, alright. So in two more months, you'll only be a year or two younger than me. Maybe three. You're right. Sorry.

Sang Gi (to Nathaniel): … Do you not know how old you are?

Nathaniel (to Sang Gi): I've got a rough estimate, but things got kinda weird for a couple of years there. Fuck. They got REAL weird for a couple of years... Holy shit. How strong did the bartender make this shit?

Sang Gi (to Nathaniel): Heh. Clearly, not strong enough. :-P … So, my name is Park Sang Gi but you can just call me Gee.

Nathaniel (to Sang Gi): Nate. Nice to meet you.

Sang Gi (to Nathaniel): Nice to meet you, too. Did you really bring your own talent or were you just trying to let me down easy?

Nathaniel (to Sang Gi): Heh. Nope. I'm here with my boyfriend. He's off sightseeing with our kid. Believe me, if this were a coupla years ago, I'd be happy to take your mind off the old men. ;-)

Sang Gi (to Nathaniel): Heh. You're a funny one, Nate. But I'll stop with the heavy flirtation. No need to waste my good lines on someone spoken for.

Nathaniel (to Sang Gi): Heh. I'm hella fucking spoken for. Here. I'll get your second drink if you want, so you don't feel like you wasted some of your tight budget on a guy who isn't gonna put out.

Sang Gi (to Nathaniel): Nah, I consider it money well spent for the company.

Nathaniel (to Sang Gi): Ha ha ha! Thought you weren't gonna waste your lines on a guy who was spoken for.

Sang Gi (to Nathaniel): That wasn't a line, at all. I actually meant it. Besides, my brother is glaring over here. So, I figure it's worth it. ;-)

Nathaniel (to Sang Gi): What? Oh shit. Yeah he is... If I disappear, you're gonna have to explain to my boyfriend that I'm dead in a ditch somewhere.

Sang Gi (to Nathaniel): Ji Yong won't kill you… Well, I don't think he will. You don't owe the casino any money, do you?

Nathaniel (to Sang Gi): No. Thank god. I learned my lesson about gambling in a different life... Shit. He's coming over here.

Ji Yong (to Nathaniel & Sang Gi): Good evening, Mr. Jones. I hope my brother hasn't been disturbing you too much.

Sang Gi (to Ji Yong): Why do you always assume that I'm bugging people? He sat down next to me.

Ji Yong (to Sang Gi): I wasn't assuming anything. I'm simply operating off the information I have at hand. You have a habit of..

Nathaniel (to Sang Gi & Ji Yong): Um, I hate to interrupt the family drama, but he's telling the truth. I sat down here. We were just talking. Heh. About you, actually. I was kinda surprised to learn you weren't an automaton.

Sang Gi (to Ji Yong & Nathaniel): See?

Ji Yong (to Nathaniel & Sang Gi): ...Yes. This isn't the first time I've heard that. I'm sorry to interrupt. Excuse me. I should get back to work.

Sang Gi (to Ji Yong): Okay…. Have fun, Ji Yong.

Ji Yong (to Sang Gi & Nathaniel): ... Yes. Good evening.

Nathaniel (to Sang Gi): Heh. Big brother's kinda overprotective, isn't he?

Sang Gi (to Nathaniel): Just a bit… Good God, He's so uptight. I don't see how a sexy, intelligent woman like Miss Fenris can hook up with my brother. She must have some really weird kinks or hangups.

Nathaniel (to Sang Gi): Yeah? Really? I could give you a list of you why she might be interested if you want. Ha ha ha! Calm down. I'm just kidding. Hari... Hari's had a hell of a rough time. Bein' with a guy who she knows EXACTLY where she stands with is prolly a big part of it. Plus, he can take care of himself. And her. When your life's as crazy as hers, that in itself is a pretty big turn on.

Sang Gi (to Nathaniel): Heh. Too each their own, I guess. I grew up with him & sometimes even I think he's an automaton.

Nathaniel (to Sang Gi): Heh. Nah. He's not that bad. I've met worse.

Percy (to Sang Gi): Are you actually looking for an automaton to have fun with? Because, I'd be happy to oblige… (to Nathaniel) Hello, Nate honey.

Sang Gi (to Percy): … Um, I don't really do automatons.

Nathaniel (to Percy & Sang Gi): ...Hi, Percy.

Percy (to Sang Gi): That's cute, honey. Why don't you wander off? The grown-ups need to talk. (to Nathaniel) Isn't that right, Nate sweetie?

Nathaniel (to Percy & Sang Gi): Do we? Lucky me. Trust me, Gee. You'll be doing yourself a favor. I'll buy you that drink later.

Sang Gi (to Nathaniel & Percy): Heh. no worries. I'll catch you later.

Nathaniel (to Sang Gi): Later. (to Percy) What's up?

Percy (to Nathaniel): I came to drop off a care package to Persephone & to let you know that the Victor & company will be arriving in New London in the next few days and setting up shop in the bunker. Zoe seems to want to go on the offensive against Hiiri. She was hoping that you guys would join them soon. Victor & Zoe seem to be hatching a scheme and could use your input.

Nathaniel (to Percy): Yeah. Alright. If you see 'em before I do, let 'em know I'll be there.

Percy (to Nathaniel): I will. Now, I'm off to make friends with a beautiful French woman I met earlier before I head back. Toodles!

Nathaniel (to Percy): Jesus... Heh. Later, Percy.

A short time later:

Ariadne (to Nathaniel): You look like you could use another drink, sailor. Interested?

Nathaniel (to Ariadne): Oh! Heh. Hey, Hari. Yeah. Percy has that effect on people. :-P

Ariadne (to Nathaniel): Guy in the suit? Wait. What am I saying? There's a lot of dudes in suits here… I would pay to see a man in a fitted t-shirt. Or Hell, some jeans. God, I miss jeans.

Nathaniel (to Ariadne): Oh god... Yeah. Suits are nice and all, but I would fucking shank a man, in front of his mamma, to see Aiden in jeans again. Man with an ass that fine shouldn't be hiding it under 30 yards of material... Sorry. What was I sayin'?

Ariadne (to Nathaniel): Heh. I couldn't tell you. I was busy imagining your boyfriend in tight jeans. ;-P

Nathaniel (to Ariadne): Trust me. It's worth imagining. Want me to give you a coupla minutes more?

Ariadne (to Nathaniel): Yes… Shhhh… Your man is fine.

Nathaniel (to Ariadne): Ha ha ha! No shit. You ain't tellin' me nothin' I don't already know. What're you lookin' so moony about. S'not like you're doin' too bad in the hot man department yourself, Itty Bitty.

Ariadne (to Nathaniel): … I think he's going to end it. I mean, we were going very hot & heavy there for awhile but he's been "busy" a lot lately.

Nathaniel (to Ariadne): Heh. Is that before or after the little brother entered the picture?

Ariadne (to Nathaniel): I think he's freaked out that I'm not freaked out after the CLANNG attack. Yeah & then there's the little brother thing. I think he doesn't want to appear to be paying too much attention to me while Gee's here.

Nathaniel (to Ariadne): Wait. CLANNG attacked?

Ariadne (to Nathaniel): Well, it was more Delphine being whiny & vindictive… Ji Yong took care of it.

Nathaniel (to Ariadne): As in permanently?

Ariadne (to Nathaniel): Yes… And, if I had been in his shoes, I would have done it myself. She's the one that took me to Maladori.

Nathaniel (to Ariadne): Yeah. I'm sure as shit not gonna cry myself to sleep over her tonight... Um... I'm not sure how to say this. Shit... I'm not sure if you want me to, but after yesterday... Mrs. Esterly's been working on my memories and shit... I know I said this already, and it doesn't fucking make anything fucking better, but I'm sorry.

Ariadne (to Nathaniel): Dude! It's okay. Really. I know it wasn't your fault. I appreciate you saying it but… Look Zoe told me what you went through That's one of the reasons why I was helping her spy on CLANNG. We've all been equally fucked up by what happened.

Nathaniel (to Ariadne): Heh. I'll fucking drink to that. And I know I didn't need to say it, but... It felt good, you know? Anyway... I'm sure as shit not going to let Hiiri pull that shit again. Not if I can help it, anyway.

Ariadne (to Nathaniel): ... Are we going to hug it out now? Come on, hug me. It'll make you feel better... Heh.

Nathaniel (to Ariadne): Will it? Really? You know you just want an excuse to get up all on this. Your super buff pretty boy isn't enough is he? You're just jonesing for someone scrawny and weird. It's OK. You can admit it. :-P

Ariadne (to Nathaniel): Yes, I'm jonesing for some of that Jones boy action. It's true, you found out my deep, dark secret.

Nathaniel (to Ariadne): Ha ha ha! You're just using me as cheap substitute for my uncle, aren't you? Oh shit! Or maybe it's Victor you gotta lady boner for? You do seem to like 'em stuffy and crammed into a suit. Haha! Shit! Don't fucking hit me! Your pet bodyguard'll open me up.

Ariadne (to Nathaniel): You're a real dick, you know that? Don't get me wrong, I like that about you but still...

Nathaniel (to Ariadne): Heh. Yeah. I know. If I buy the next round, will you like me again?

Ariadne (to Nathaniel): ... Ferris Bueller, you're my hero. :-p

Nathaniel (to Ariadne): Life moves pretty fast. If you don't stop and look around once in a while, you could miss it. Ha ha ha! How long has /that/ quote been lurking around in my brain. Oops! Here comes your pretty man again. Heh. I'm gonna make myself scarce. He's been givin' me the eye since his brother hit on me.

Ariadne (to Nathaniel): Oh no! He's going to put his testicles on me. You know, like an octopus. :-p Wish me luck.

Nathaniel (to Ariadne): What? Do octopus even HAVE testicles? Octopuses? Octopi? Octotesticles? Heh. heh. Wish me luck too. Somehow, I ended up kinda drunk. And by kinda, I mean "very." VEEEEEEEERY drunk.

Ariadne (to Nathaniel): I was thinking about 'Better Off Dead'... Nevermind. Do you need help making it to your room?

Nathaniel (to Ariadne): Oh. Yeah. Young John Cusack. Heh. Yeeeah... Nah! I'm alright. I've been in a worse way than this before. Later, Hari.

Ariadne (to Nathaniel): Bye, Nate. I'll have coffee sent to your room in the morning.

Nathaniel (to Ariadne): Heh. You're nicer to me than I deserve. (to Ji Yong) Put the scowl away, Mr. Suit. I'm leaving.

Ariadne (to Ji Yong): Is there something I can do for you, Mister Yong?

Ji Yong (to Ariadne): ... No. I have upset you.

Ariadne (to Ji Yong): Wait. What?

Ji Yong (to Ariadne): You seemed irritated. I thought perhaps I had annoyed or distressed you in some manner.

Ariadne (to Ji Yong): I'm fine. You said you weren't ignoring me & it wasn't the time to talk so there you are... I just missed your company.

Ji Yong (to Ariadne): ...You did? Oh. I apologize. I suppose I assumed something else. If you don't mind, I would like so see you tonight.

A Strange Old World, Day 118

In the dining room, at Casino de la Renard; Nice, French Republic:

Bianca (to Mrs. Esterly): Ah, good morning. Mrs… Esterly, was it? Please join me. The chef does an absolutely fantastic brunch.

Mrs. Esterly (to Bianca): Of course, dear. I'd be delighted. Thank you for the invitation. You must be Bianca. Good heavens. Grigori certainly wasn't exaggerating about what a beauty you are.

Bianca (to Mrs. Esterly): Oh really, he said that? Heh. I find it hard to believe that he talks about me, at all.

Mrs. Esterly (to Bianca): Hee hee. You know how he is. He talks quite a bit, but never really says much. He knows better than to try that with me.

Bianca (to Mrs. Esterly): Heh. So very true… I have to admit I was a bit concerned about meeting the competition.

Mrs. Esterly (to Bianca): Competition? Whatever for?

Bianca (to Mrs. Esterly): As if you don't know… The way Grigori talks about you, I just always assumed you were "the one that got away".

Mrs. Esterly (to Bianca): I believe saying I'm "the one who got away" implies we had some kind of relationship, dear. Hee hee hee. We were never anything other than coworkers and friends. I was very happily married until I lost my husband.

Bianca (to Mrs. Esterly): My mistake… That old bastard.

Mrs. Esterly (to Bianca): I think he carried a bit of a torch for me when we were younger, which I'm sure had as much to do with me helping him defect than it did with how impressive a figure I cut as a younger woman. Hee hee. In fact, I seem to recall him complimenting my sharpshooting skills more than my beauty.

Bianca (to Mrs. Esterly): Heh. My apologies, Mrs. Esterly. I keep feeling like my being here is all a test & that I'm expected to fail. It has made me a bit paranoid.

Mrs. Esterly (to Bianca): Hee hee. It's quite alright, dear. Knowing Grigori, it most likely is some kind of test. You don't get to be our age, doing what we do by being the trusting sort.

Bianca (to Mrs. Esterly): Oh yes, the aging spy thing.

Mrs. Esterly (to Bianca): It's a bit more than a thing, dear. It's something you'll need to understand if you really want to marry Grigori. For all his bluster, his bad heart and worse pickup lines, he's a man who could make you disappear without a trace, if he had a mind. Our work is part of who we are. It's in the bones. Hee hee. Like a cancer I would imagine some would argue.

Bianca (to Mrs. Esterly): I know all of that quite well. My clientele have never been the average fare of wealthy playboys & the like. I could tell you such stories of what I've seen but I don't kiss and tell.

Mrs. Esterly (to Bianca): I shouldn't think they were. Hee hee. The wealthy and elite like to think of themselves as the brightest, best & cleverest don't they? You don't seem like a woman who likes to pretends she's not exactly as sharp as she is.

Bianca (to Mrs. Esterly): Heh… Only if the money is right. ;-P

Mrs. Esterly (to Bianca): Hee hee. As you say, dear.

A few hours later:

Ariadne (to Ji Yong): Mister Yong, there's apparently some very important people coming into the casino tonight. What would you like me to do?

Ji Yong (to Ariadne): Yes. Mr. Rodchenko will handle most of the entertaining. If he wants your assistance, he'll find you, and introduce you. In the mean time, just be extra attentive, keep out of the way, and don't make eye contact with the clients if you can help it.

Ariadne (to Ji Yong): Alright, I think I can handle that. (to Lily & Nathaniel) Hello, Nate and the little Miss. How are you both doing?

Nathaniel (to Ariadne & Lily): The Lil' Bit here was curious about the casino, so I promised her a look. And that is all, right? (to Ji Yong) Nice to see you again, Mr. ... is it Yong or Park?

Lily (to Nathaniel): Yes… You said I wasn't allowed to touch anything.

Ji Yong (to Nathaniel, Lily & Ariadne): Everyone calls me Mr. Yong. I'm sorry. Minors aren't allowed on the casino floor. Excuse me.

Ariadne (to Nathaniel & Lily): Oh… Terrible gambling habit, huh? It's such a shame when they start so young. ;-P

Lily: Heehee.

Nathaniel (to Ariadne & Lily): Heh. She's already a pro at three card Monte... We interrupting something?

Ariadne (to Nathaniel & Lily): Nope. We've got some VIPs coming… I can show you guys the security room. It overlooks the casino. That way you guys can see it without breaking the rules. Sound good?

Nathaniel (to Ariadne & Lily): Sounds good to me. Whaddya say, munchkin?

Lily (to Nathaniel & Ariadne): That would be nice. I don't want to get anybody in trouble.

Ariadne (to Lily & Nathaniel): Excellent! Follow me.

Nathaniel (to Ariadne): Lead the way. 

A few minutes later:

Nathaniel (to Ariadne): So you and Mr. Yong, huh?

Ariadne (to Nathaniel & Lily): Yeppers. Heh. I can't really believe it myself.

Lily (to Ariadne & Nathaniel): … Is Mister Yong the scary man?

Nathaniel (to Lily & Ariadne): That would be him. According to Hari, here, he's not that scary.

Ariadne (to Nathaniel & Lily): He's not… Heh. You should see him with his brother. It's fuc-- freaking adorable.

Nathaniel (to Ariadne & Lily): He has a brother? That is... Heh. I dunno why, it just sounds crazy.

Lily: Heehee.

Ariadne (to Lily & Nathaniel): Gee is about your age, Nate. He's been visiting for the last week & he's a bit of a handful.

Nathaniel (to Ariadne & Lily): No he's not. This is impossible to conceive. Mr. Yong was created outta damn clay and --I dunno-- Nun's habits.

Ariadne (to Lily & Nathaniel): Heh… Look, he's down there on the casino floor over by the bar.

Lily (to Ariadne & Nathaniel): Ooo… He's cute.

Nathaniel (to Lily): ... You think so, huh?

Lily (to Nathaniel): Yes, but not as handsome as Victor.

Ariadne: HAHAHA!

Nathaniel (to Ariadne): Shut it up, you. (to Lily) Heh. If you say so.

An hour or so later:

Lily (to Nathaniel): Daddy, can I go find Seph & Joseph?

Nathaniel (to Lily): Yeah. Of course. If their door is locked, go see Mrs. Esterly or your dad... Don't run!

Lily (to Nathaniel): Okay! (to Ariadne) Thank you for the tour, Miss Fenris. Bye!

Ariadne (to Lily): You're very welcome.

Nathaniel (to Ariadne): Goddamn that kid can move... What? Stop your fucking smirking! What?

Ariadne (to Nathaniel): Heh. It's just funny to see big bad Mister Grumpy-Face with a kid.

Nathaniel (to Ariadne): Yeah, yeah. Laugh it up. I'm tryin', alright? It's not like I got any idea what I'm doing.

Ariadne (to Nathaniel): Calm down, you're not doing all that badly… So, did Mrs. Esterly unlock anything useful from your noggin, yet?

Nathaniel (to Ariadne): Thanks. I, uh... I dunno. Maybe. We kinda took a break for a bit. My head's not the easiest thing to navigate, and Aiden was kinda worried about me. It was kickin' up more than just memories, ya know?

Ariadne (to Nathaniel): Yeah, I'll bet… I take it you don't recall the last time we saw each other in the other timeline then, huh?

Nathaniel (to Ariadne): Uh... I'm not sure.

Ariadne (to Nathaniel): You were visiting Maladori's laboratory with Hiiri. They were talking about some island or something. I couldn't really hear all too well, what, with the torture and all. But, it sounded important. I asked you for help… You gave me a glass of water & said something sarcastic about how "you would if you could". You must have done something to piss off Hiiri because you never came back with her again.

Nathaniel (to Ariadne): ... Yeah. I did... Christ. I'm sorry, Hari. I... Shit. There's nothing I can say that will make that shit better.

Ariadne (to Nathaniel): It's okay… Whatever Maladori did to me wasn't your fault & it made me remember the other timeline. I'm just glad to be done with all of that. And, I have a way better life this time around… Well, now I do. It was touch & go for a bit there.

Nathaniel (to Ariadne): ... Fuck. I wish I knew what the hell to say to you. I know that shit wasn't my fault, but I was a party to it, ya know? S'why I was always fucking drunk or hung over, and it's why Mrs. Esterly's having such a bitch of a time getting the memories outta my head. Between all the shit I kinda remember, and all the shit I don't wanna remember, I... Wait. You said something about an island before, right? Maladori and Hiiri were yammerin' about some island?

Ariadne (to Nathaniel): Yeah… They seemed to act like it was really important.

Nathaniel (to Ariadne): Oh. Oh SHIT! Hiiri, you are gorgeous! That might be part of her thing. Fuckin' Isla de Puertas, or whatever it's called... Sorry. I'm rambling. Thank you. I think you helped us find the missing piece!

Ariadne (to Nathaniel): Oh… Happy to help… And, I'm talking to an empty room… Again. Heh.

Nathaniel (to Ariadne): Oh. Um, sorry. I kinda ran off without... Thank you. Like, serious, THANK YOU. I... I'm sorry about the other shit. I really am. I gotta go. Watch yourself, alright? Later!

Ariadne (to Nathaniel): Yeah, of course.

A Strange Old World, Day 117

In Mrs. Esterly's room, at Casino de la Renard; Nice, French Republic:

Nathaniel (to Mrs. Esterly): But...

Mrs. Esterly (to Nathaniel): Do not "but" me, young man. You are going to sit here and relax and you had bloody well eat something while you're at it.

Nathaniel (to Mrs. Esterly): ... Fine.

A couple hours, at Vernian Industries; Coventry, Britannia:

Hiiri (to Starling): Ah, Miss Starling, I read your report. I suppose a congratulations is in order.

Starling (to Hiiri): I was just doing my job, ma'am.

Hiiri (to Starling): Yes, but you finally did something right. Which just warms the cockles... If I had that sort of thing.

Starling (to Hiiri): ... As you say, ma'am.

At Ms. Dvorak's house; New London, Britannia:

George (to Ms. Dvorak): Ms. Dvorak, we seem to have visitors... Five or six of them by my count. They're approaching from the north. What now?

Ms. Dvorak (to George): Head to the roof, dear. Sniper rifle is in the cupola. I'll take out the stranglers if need be... This is going to be fun.

George (to Ms. Dvorak): Fun is not the word I would use.

Ms. Dvorak (to George): Give an old woman her small pleasures... Now, go on. Time's a-wastin'.

An hour or so later, at the Longfellow Inn; New London, Britannia:

Charles (to George): Hello, George. I was just about to close up the kitchen. What can I... Good gracious! Are you injured?

George (to Charles): ... What? Oh, that. It's alright, Charles. It's not my blood... Someone just tried to take out Ms. Dvorak. She & I are heading to a hidey-hole. I just came to say goodbye.

Charles (to George): What!?! Oh. Oh dear. What can I do to help?

George (to Charles): Nothing. She seems to think it has something to do with Lord Wilkes' death.

Charles (to George): Of course. I'm sorry. That was a silly thing to say. I-I, um, I shall miss seeing you regularly.

George (to Charles): Will you? That's very sweet, Charles. Please take care of yourself while I'm gone.

Charles (to George): Of course. Please take care of yourself. And of Ms. Dvorak. Um, George. W-wait a moment. I,uh, I wanted to... I'm sorry! I'm sure that was terribly impertinent, but I, um... I hope to see you again soon.

George (to Charles): ... Took you bloody long enough. We'll be back before you know it. And then, you can do that again. :-p

Charles (to George): Oh. Um, yes. I... I would like that.

George (to Charles): I would, too. Goodbye, Charles.

Charles (to George): Goodbye, George. Please be safe.

A short time later, in Aiden & Nathaniel's room, at Casino de la Renard; Nice, French Republic:

Nathaniel (to Aiden): Who the fuck... Oh. Heh. Hey.I guess I dozed off. Is everything OK? Is Lilian alright?

Aiden (to Nathaniel): Yes, she's fine. She's a bit tuckered out. Seph & Joseph ran her ragged with their sightseeing. How are you feeling?

Nathaniel (to Aiden): Oh. Oh good... I'm fine. Heh. Guess all this shit's taking more outta me than I thought. Sorry I'm not being more involved with the whole family vacation. I'll make some time to hang out with the Lil' Bit.

Aiden (to Nathaniel): ... I'm canceling the sessions with Mrs. Esterly. This was a bad idea. I'm very sorry for putting you through all that.

Nathaniel (to Aiden): What?! What are you talkin' about? I'm fine.

Aiden (to Nathaniel): Are you? You've been tossing & turning every night since you started, looking rough & haven't been eating. I know you, Nate. You are not doing fine.

Nathaniel (to Aiden): ...Alright, so maybe "fine" is too strong a word, but I'm O-fuckin'-K. It's just a lot of shitty memories. It's Hiiri, Aiden. If havin' a few nightmares and reliving a few shitty things is gonna help us stop her, then it's worth it.

Aiden (to Nathaniel): And, what if you come out of all this the scared, angry Nate that's supposed to be here & not you? What am I supposed to do? I love you & want to spend the rest of my life with YOU. I know that it would technically be the same but how long would we really last? You & I are more alike... And, this has got to be one of the strangest things I've ever said.

Nathaniel (to Aiden): ... I don't know what to say to that.

Aiden (to Nathaniel): I'm sorry. I appreciate what you're doing, I'm just concerned.

Nathaniel (to Aiden): Oh. I... Shit. I have NO idea what the fuck to say to that. You're worried I'm gonna end up more like the other guy? I mean, me, but... You know what I mean.

Aiden (to Nathaniel): Yes, a bit... I feel like an ass.

Nathaniel (to Aiden): Oh. Heh... Ha ha HA! Holy shit! Heh. There was part of me waiting for you to fuckin' dump me cuz I wasn't the other guy.

Aiden (to Nathaniel): Yes, because I always like to propose to people right before I end our relationship... It's probably a fetish.

Nathaniel (to Aiden): Heh. It might be. You're aristocratic, you know. You guys are fuckin' weird. ... I didn't really think you were gonna dump me. I wouldn't have said yes if I did. But I worried, you know? You can't really blame me. If you want me to stop for a bit, I will, OK? It's not like Mrs. Esterly's chompin' at the bit to continue, anyway. She kicked me outta her room today. But if there's something she needs to know, or thinks will help, I feel like I should. It's Hiiri. If she gains control of the ISS and CLANNG... It's gonna be bad. Real damn bad.

Aiden (to Nathaniel): I know. Just take a day off from it. There's no sense in pushing yourself to the edge & then being out of commission if something happens. Besides, Mrs. Esterly could probably use a break, too.

Nathaniel (to Aiden): Shit. Yeah. She probably could. Heh. Navigating my head's gotta be like trying to get through an ant hill. Heh. So... You like this version of me best, huh? It's cuz I'm sluttier this time around, isn't it? :-P

Aiden (to Nathaniel): I like to think of it as a more cavalier attitude. ;-p

Nathaniel (to Aiden): Heh heh. So... that's a yes then.

Aiden (to Nathaniel): That's not it & you know it... But it certainly doesn't hurt.;-)

Nathaniel (to Aiden): C'mere... I'll show you a "cavalier attitude."

Aiden (to Nathaniel): Heh. I'm all yours.

Nathaniel (to Aiden): Good... I fucking love you so fucking much. I can't believe you like me best. You got inexplicable taste, you know that?

Aiden (to Nathaniel): ... You talk too much. C'mere.

Nathaniel (to Aiden): Yeah. I probably do...

A Strange Old World, Day 116

In Mrs. Esterly's room, at Casino de la Renard; Nice, French Republic:

Mrs. Esterly (to Nathaniel): Nate... I know you want to keep going, dear, but I think that's enough for today.

Nathaniel (to Mrs. Esterly): I'm okay. Really. Honest.

Mrs. Esterly (to Nathaniel): We've done enough. I wouldn't be comfortable putting you through more. We're dredging up emotions as well as memories. If you insist, we can start again tomorrow.

Nathaniel (to Mrs. Esterly): Yeah. I insist. I'll be alright, honest... Um, just don't tell Aiden about all the, uh, you know, emotional throw up shit

Mrs. Esterly (to Nathaniel): ... As you say, dear.

A Strange Old World, Day 115

At Casino de la Renard; Nice, French Republic:

Mrs. Esterly (to Nathaniel): Good morning, dear. Judging by your face, Master Aiden wants us to get started on those memories right away, doesn't he? Good heavens. He can't even give us a day to relax in the sun, can he?

Nathaniel (to Mrs. Esterly): ... Guess not. He's kinda twitchy about this whole thing.

Mrs. Esterly (to Nathaniel): We'd best get to it, then. Let's go inside. Make yourself comfortable, sweetie. I'm going to get the the curtains drawn, and make some tea. I dare say this will take a few sessions. I've never had to draw out memories of an alternative timeline.

Nathaniel (to Mrs. Esterly): ...Yeah. I'm kinda... Honestly, I'm nervous as hell about this. There's a lotta stuff rattling around in my head, and not all of it's super pleasant, you know?

Mrs. Esterly (to Nathaniel): I know, dear. I'm afraid this will be a bit difficult on you.

Nathaniel (to Mrs. Esterly): Yeah. I figured. It's alright. If it'll help, even just a little, then it's worth it.

Mrs. Esterly (to Nathaniel): Very good. Drink this tea, sit back, and try to relax. We'll begin shortly.

Meanwhile:

Persephone (to Lily): Come on, Little Bit. While the grown-ups are off doing grown-up boring things, let's you, me & Joseph go to the beach.

Lily (to Persephone): That sounds like fun.

Persephone (to Lily): Heehee. You're a girl after my own heart. Joseph down there already getting us a cabana. I don't want to burn.

Lily (to Persephone): Heehee… This place is like a fairy tale.

Persephone (to Lily): I'm sure it gets boring after awhile… Too many fancy ladies for my taste.

Joseph (to Persephone & Lily): Heh. No one can compete with you, Seph. You're the prettiest one here… Besides, Lilian, of course. :-)

Lily: Heehee.

Persephone (to Joseph & Lily): Very good answer…

A couple hours later:

Aiden (to Nathaniel): Hey there, handsome. How'd the session go? Need a drink?

Nathaniel (to Aiden): ...Yeah. Yeah, I think so. Thanks...

Aiden (to Nathaniel): Here, you are. Are you okay?

Nathaniel (to Aiden): Right this second? I feel kinda scrambled. It's OK. I'll be alight. Heh. Alright. Not, alight. I'm not setting anything on fire just yet.

Aiden (to Nathaniel): Heh. Let me know if you start feeling the urge, ok? I had Mr. Yong show me the grounds & security. I think we're safe here and, the inhibitor field is up and running.

Nathaniel (to Aiden): Yeah. Mrs. Esterly said she had a hard time gettin' me to come back around. Heh. Guess all the extra shit I got in my head makes things a little complicated.

Aiden (to Nathaniel): I'm sorry… If it's too much for you, you don't have to do it again.

Nathaniel (to Aiden): Pfffft! Like hell. If there's something in my head that can help, I can fuckin' cope with a few bad memories. S'not like any of that shit can actually hurt me, right?

Aiden (to Nathaniel): True. But, if you can't handle it, please tell me or Mrs. Esterly, ok? No sense in breaking your brain over this. I like you the way you are… only slightly broken. :-P

Nathaniel (to Aiden): Ha ha ha! Broken in ways that mesh with your broken ways, right? Heh. I'll let you know if I can't hack it. Promise.

Aiden (to Nathaniel): Good. Want some food? I've been told the seafood here is to die for… by several women.

Nathaniel (to Aiden): So while my head's been scrambled, you've been gettin' hit on by gorgeous French women? Heh. Sounds about right. We can get some lunch if you want.

Aiden (to Nathaniel): Heh. If one of them had a filthy mouth like yours, I would have wandered off with them. ;-P

Nathaniel (to Aiden): Damn. Thank god they were all proper fuckin' ladies, then. Heh heh heh. I'd better keep Hari away from you, then. Unless she's still shacking up with Mr. Hot Bod Bodyguard.

Aiden (to Nathaniel): Heh. I believe Miss Fenris & Mister Yong are very serious. You should have seen the way his eyes kept wandering to her from across the room. Heh. What is it with you skippers & former assassins?

Nathaniel (to Aiden): Heh. Who the fuck knows. Apparently we all gotta thing for dangerous, weirdo types.

Aiden (to Nathaniel): It certainly would seem so… I hope Lily doesn't inherit that trait or we're in trouble.

Nathaniel (to Aiden): ... Shit. Is it too late to figure out how to be a boring normal couple?

Aiden (to Nathaniel): Heh. I think that may be harder than it sounds.

Nathaniel (to Aiden): Fuck yeah. I have no idea how'd I even go about that.

A little while later, in the lobby:

Sang Gi (to Ariadne): Miss Fenris? I have a delivery for you.

Ariadne (to Sang Gi): Hey, Gee… You didn't have to do that.

Sang Gi (to Ariadne): Uh yeah, I kinda did. It's my job. Well, for the next week or so. There's a card. I need to get back. I'll see you later.

Ariadne (to Sang Gi): … Thanks and congratulations. I'll see you later.

Onboard the Wicked Sister:

Felix (to Zoe): Headed out, pretty girl?

Zoe (to Felix): I guess so, unless my brother & Yuki have changed their minds. Have they?

Felix (to Zoe): Not that I've been told. My guess is they think you'll be safer with Mamma and Poppa Bear.

Zoe (to Felix): It's total bullshit! There isn't anywhere safe from Hiiri… And, I want to stay with you.

Felix (to Zoe): ... I don't like being away from you either, but you say things like that and it makes me anxious.

Zoe (to Felix): I'm sorry… It's just that I saw what the world was like with Hiiri running about on two occasions… and it freaks me out. I know how she thinks. And staying in groups is a much better idea. We all start separating, that's how she gets us. She's a predator… We need to stick together. But, no one will listen to me.

Felix (to Zoe): ... Come on. Let's go talk to the Captain. I know I, for one, will sleep better if I know for sure you're alright.

Zoe (to Felix): Thank you.

Felix (to Zoe): When you're right, you're right, pretty girl.

Meanwhile, on the bridge:

Victor: Holy shit...

Yukiko (to Victor): What's going on, watashi no ai?

Victor (to Yukiko): I just spoke to my mom. Lord Wilkes is dead.

Yukiko (to Victor): … How is Aiden handling it?

Victor (to Yukiko): She hasn't spoken to him yet. He, Nate, Lilian, Seph and Joseph left New London to regroup...

Yukiko (to Victor): … I have no idea what to say.

Victor (to Yukiko): Why would Hiiri kill Lord Wilkes?

Yukiko (to Victor): Power, perhaps?

Victor (to Yukiko): It must be... I think we should talk to Zoe.

Yukiko (to Victor): Alright.

Victor (to Yukiko): She might know something about what Hiiri's... WHAH! (to Zoe) Zoe! We were just coming to talk to you.

Zoe (to Victor & Yukiko): Aaaah! We were coming to talk to you.

Victor (to Zoe, Felix & Yukiko): Same here.

Zoe (to Victor): Heehee. Well, spit it out. What's going on?

Victor (to Zoe, Felix & Yukiko): Hiiri has killed Wilkinson and Aiden's father.

Zoe (to Victor, Felix & Yukiko): … Shit… It's happening again.

Victor (to Zoe): What's happening again?

Zoe (to Victor, Felix & Yukiko): Hiiri's taking everything over. This happened in the other timelines.

Victor (to Zoe, Felix & Yukiko): ... Who wants to go to the beach?

Yukiko (to Victor): What are you talking about, Victor? I thought we were heading to the Caribbean? You can't get more beach-like than that.

Zoe (to Victor, Felix & Yukiko): … I'm not really a sun & sand type of girl.

Victor (to Zoe, Felix & Yukiko): We were. I think we should change course and talk to Nate. You and he are the only ones who might know what Hiiri is plotting.

Zoe (to Victor, Yukiko & Felix): … She's going to make a play for CLANNG next.

Yukiko (to Zoe, Victor & Felix): What!?! That's ridiculous. Where on earth would she get the firepower for that sort of siege?

Zoe (to Yukiko, Victor & Felix): She won't use firepower the first time, it'll be more subtle than that… She'll save the big guns for later.

Victor (to Zoe, Yukiko & Felix): And, she took over Vernian Industries when she killed Eva and Una's mother. They provide vehicles and munitions to both the Empire and CLANNG. Fuuuuuuck... ... I'm not going to lie. I really don't know what to do. What do you guys think?

Zoe (to Yukiko, Victor & Felix): … We work way better as a team, big brother. Mom had a whole network of spies at one point living in the bunker & they were causing a lot of grief to CLANNG. And, this time around we have more friends with quite a lot of skills. We may need to regroup & discuss.

Victor (to Zoe): I think you're right. (to Yukiko & Felix) What do you two think?

Felix (to Victor, Zoe & Yukiko): I don't really have a mind for this kind of political maneuvering, Captain. I'm going wherever Zoe goes.

Yukiko (to Zoe, Victor & Felix): I leave the plans for other folks… But, I'm with Felix. I go where you go, watashi no ai.

Victor (to Yukiko & Felix): Alright. You two are lovely people, but no help at all. :-P (to Zoe) So, Little Sister? What do you think? Should we head to Nice, or back to New London?

Zoe (to Victor): Well, is there anyone left in New London? Where were we supposed to be meeting Mom & Dad?

Victor (to Zoe, Felix & Yukiko): I think only Charles and Auntie Margaux. Mum and Dad are in the wind. Everyone else is in France, I think.

Zoe (to Victor): Well, I think we shouldn't waste any time. We should go to the bunker & prepare until we can get hold of Mom & Dad. We need to start getting things in order so we can figure out what Hiiri's next move is.

Victor (to Zoe, Felix & Yukiko): Alright. You know the most about this, Zoe, so we'll follow your lead. We'll stay on course to the Caribbean, moor the Sister and we'll jump to the bunker. I still think we should try to get a hold of Nate. He was in CLANNG with Hiiri for a couple of years, so he might know something that will help. Is that alright with you two?

Zoe (to Victor): True...

Yukiko (to Victor, Zoe & Felix): I'm fine with that.

Felix (to Victor): Aye, Captain.

Victor (to Zoe): Is that alright with you? You've got a look.

Zoe (to Victor): … Yeah, that's fine. I was just thinking.

Victor (to Zoe): Alright. I need to get us back on course. Don't worry. We'll be alright.

Zoe (to Victor, Yukiko & Felix): I should go write down what I remember from the other timelines.

Victor (to Zoe): Oh! That's a good idea. Included everything you can remember. Even if we don't think it's important, it might be.

Zoe (to Victor): I will.

Yukiko (to Victor, Felix & Zoe): Heh. And, I will go do something productive if you tell me what that would be. ;-P

Victor (to Yukiko): Ha ha ha! Uh, Moral support?

Yukiko (to Victor): Heh. I'll try my best… Uh, you are doing a super job.

Victor (to Yukiko): Thanks. I feel very validated now. :-P

Yukiko (to Victor): Heehee. (to Felix) So, Felix, what was it that you & Zoe were coming to talk to us about?

Victor (to Yukiko & Felix): Oh! That's right. I almost forgot.

Felix (to Victor & Yukiko): Oh. Heh. Seems my objections over sending Zoe away to deal with all this madness alone are rather moot now. I'll tell you true, Captain: she didn't want to go, and I wasn't real keen on the idea myself.

Victor (to Felix): Heh. Of course. I apologize for any distress I caused you or my sister... May I ask you a question, Felix?

Felix (to Victor): Aye. Of course. You're the captain, Captain.

Victor (to Felix): Did your former crew-mates really think you were illiterate? You don't have the vocabulary of an illiterate man

Felix (to Victor & Yukiko): ... Heh. I suppose that's why I didn't talk around them very much, sir. If you'll excuse me.

Yukiko: Heehee.

Victor (to Yukiko): I do believe I was just burned.

Yukiko (to Victor): Oh! Do I need to get you some salve? How bad is it?

Victor (to Yukiko): Ha ha ha! Sorry. I'm not injured. It's slang from the other side. It means that Felix said something clever enough that I don't have a witty retort.

Yukiko (to Victor): Oh... Well, it was bound to happen, eventually.

Victor (to Yukiko): Heh. And again, I have nothing clever to say. :-P ... You're sure you still want to follow me into this mess?

Yukiko (to Victor): I'm sure I've been worse situations, Victor. Besides, I love you & you're going to need someone to watch your back. And it's in my best interest to make sure you survive. ;-p

Victor (to Yukiko): Worse? Possibly... I'm glad you have a vested interest at any rate.

Yukiko (to Victor): I can only imagine what kind of trouble you'd get in without me around.

Victor (to Yukiko): Loads. Or none at all, which would be even worse.

Yukiko (to Victor): Heh. If you didn't have a ship to pilot, I would show you how much trouble I can get you into. ;-)

Victor (to Yukiko): ... Wow. If I were a cruel man, I'd make Felix come up here and take over.

Yukiko (to Victor): I've been told that it's good to be the captain...

Victor (to Yukiko): Yuki, that is... That is VERY distracting...

Yukiko (to Victor): Oh it is? I'm sorry. It's just that these coveralls are so hot... Oops, I don't appear to have underclothes on... So sorry. I guess, I should just go & get cleaned up.

Victor (to Yukiko): You... You are downright EVIL, you know that? (to Felix, via intercom) Felix? This is Victor. I was wondering if you...

Felix (to Victor): Heh. Aye, Captain. Say no more. I'll be on the bridge shortly.

Yukiko (to Victor): Heh. I can live with that, watashi no ai.

Victor (to Yukiko): Heh. I love you, you crazy, evil woman.

Yukiko (to Victor): I love you, too... I'll meet you in your room.

Victor (to Yukiko): You can count on it.