Onboard The Wicked Sister:
Kian: Ahoy, Wicked Sister… (to Zoe) Well, hello pretty little one… Anyone in charge awake on this tub?
Zoe (to Kian): … What makes you think I'm not in charge?
Kian (to Zoe): HAHAHA, you are a funny one, lass. Seriously, where's the captain?
Zoe (to Kian): Pfttthtpt! Victor is up on the bridge, Captain O'Malley.
Kian (to Zoe): Thank you. Don't worry, I'll be back to sweep you off your feet, shortly.
Zoe (to Kian): … I can hardly wait.
A few minutes later, on the bridge:
Kian (to Victor): Victor, me lad! I've got news that I thought you needed to hear.
Victor (to Kian & Felix): What did you do? Felix, this is Kian O'Malley of the Neptune's Bride. Kian, this is Mr. Baldwin, our first mate.
Felix (to Victor & Kian): I know the ship. I believe I owe you a pint, Captain O'Malley.
Kian (to Felix): Heh. I believe you do, Mister Baldwin. (to Victor) And, I didn't do anything, Victor. A new player has been consolidating a fleet by scavenging ships & poaching captains. Some bloke named Cavanaugh. Just wanted to warn you.
Victor (to Kian): Cavanaugh? I can't say that I've ever heard of him... Thank you for the warning. Heh. What else is it that you need? You didn't have to come in person to tell me that. Or did you want to make fun of me for crashing my ship in Boston? ;-)
Kian (to Victor): Heh. There was that. I just wanted a change of scenery. You have some of the prettiest lasses ever seen on a pirate ship. And, I'm tired of looking at the ugly mugs aboard the Bride.
Victor (to Kian): Heh. None of whom will give you the time of day, Kian.
Kian (to Victor): Really? I can be very persuasive. Your little sister is looking prettier than the last time I saw her.
Victor (to Kian): You say that about every girl you meet more than once. She and Felix are seeing each other. You aren't persuasive enough to counter that.
Kian (to Victor): Oh well, that's a shame… I should get back to the ship, then.
Victor (to Kian): You didn't... You did! You totes came over here just to flirt with my sister. You've been spending too much time on the ship.
Kian (to Victor): Heh. You can hardly blame me, Victor. She's damn fine.
Victor (to Kian): Kian... That's my little sister you're being rude about. If I said that about Beatrice, you'd try to throttle me.
Kian (to Victor): I'd also think you were blind. Beatrice is a freckly ginger with bad teeth. But, I do love her. Now, if you said my sister Colleen, well then, I had have to kill you.
Victor (to Kian): My point still stands.
Kian (to Victor): Fine. My apologies, lad. I remember when you had more of a sense of humor about that sort of thing.
Victor (to Kian): Heh. Since when. I seem to recall you saying "D'anam don diabhal! You're a bloody automaton, aren't you?" more than once any time you spent more than an hour with me. Also, "Are you sure you're the Dandy's boy?"
Kian (to Victor): Heh… Do you have one of those photographic memories, lad? I was just joshing with you, anyway. Fair winds, Captain.
Victor (to Kian): Fair winds to you as well, Captain O'Malley.
Yukiko (to Victor): Heehee. He certainly knows how to enter and leave a room. Did he take lessons from your father?
Victor (to Yukiko): Heh. In a way, I think he did. He's always really looked up to my father, and has always been vastly disappointed I'm not more like him. I can't believe he didn't notice you.
Yukiko (to Victor): Well, I was hanging upside down in that duct. Besides, it was Zoe he was way more interested in… Zoe, wouldn't fall for his pretty face & sleazy pickup lines, would she?
Victor (to Yukiko): No. Of course not... The answer had better be of course not, or I really will throttle him. Not that it matters. She's only got eyes for Felix right now. What about you? Do you fall for sleazy lines and pretty faces? I've got some good ones... ;-)
Yukiko (to Victor): Heh. If I fell for that sort of thing, I'd be a different type of a girl, watashi no ai… But I do love it when you're trying to be all scandalous.
Victor (to Yukiko): I'll have you know, madam, that I can be a very good flirt when I need to be. Heh heh. Just not with you.
Yukiko (to Victor): Heehee… Well, that's good to know, sir. Heh. I should really get back to fixing that coupling. Oh, and is Zoe going to stay onboard with us? Because, if so I want to put her to work. If not, she can keep being a guest & getting in the way. :-P
Victor (to Yukiko): Heh. I'm not sure. I'll go find out. Come here for a moment...
Yukiko (to Victor): Yes, Captain. ;-P
A moment later, on the deck:
Felix (to Kian): Off so soon, Captain? Cheers, then! I was serious about the pint. Call on me next time we're in the same port.
Kian (to Felix): Oh, I will… You're a very lucky man, Mister Baldwin.
Felix (to Kian): ... As you say, sir. May not have always been the case, but I'm not fool enough to complain about my lot improving.
Kian (to Felix): Until next time.
Felix: What the ruddy hell was that all about?
Zoe (to Felix): What's with this grumpy face?
Felix (to Zoe): Who can be grumpy around such a pretty girl? I don't think Captain O'Malley likes me very much.
Zoe (to Felix): Are you kidding? Who wouldn't like you? You're smart, funny, capable, handsome… Oh, wait. Yep. He totally hates you. :-P
Felix (to Zoe): He also said I was a very lucky... Oh. Heh heh heh. That explains it.
Zoe (to Felix): Explains what?
Felix (to Zoe): Heh. I'm sure the problem is you, pretty girl. I think he made an excuse to stop by to see you.
Zoe (to Felix): … Oh? Why the hell would he do that?
Felix (to Zoe): You're right. What possible reason could a man have for seeking out the company of a beautiful young woman? I can't imagine.
Zoe (to Felix): Oh… OH! Well, I certainly never gave him any reason. He's handsome enough but sleazy & I wouldn't trust him any further than I could throw him.
Felix (to Zoe): Heh heh. I know you weren't having him on. I didn't say that, did I? I'm not worried. I know you can't resist me.
Zoe (to Felix): … Heh. You're awfully sure of yourself. You must be feeling better. :-P
Felix (to Zoe): I am. Heh. Mostly, I'm glad to be out of the infirmary.
Zoe (to Felix): Well, I'm glad, too.
Meanwhile, on the bridge:
Inger, via radio: Wicked Sister, come in, Wicked Sister. This is the Airship Grendel. We are hoping to parlay. No harm intended. Do you read me? Please, come in.
Victor (to Inger): ... I read you, Captain Roth. What do you want?
Inger (to Victor): Wilkinson is dead. His organization is collapsing… His new "friend" Hiiri did it.
Victor (to Inger): I wish I could say that surprises me. What do you want from us, Captain Roth?
Inger (to Victor): I'm taking my crew and heading south. I just thought I should give you a heads up… Your cousin warned me this would happen. I thought I should return the favor. That's all. Good luck to you & yours.
Victor (to Inger): ... Thank you for the warning, Captain.
Inger (to Victor): Fair winds, Captain Harrison.
Victor: Shit. (to Yukiko) Yuki? I need to go see Mrs. Esterly and my parents. Do you think you and Felix can get the Sister in the air?
Yukiko (to Victor): Yes, of course. Where are we heading?
Victor (to Yukiko): Heh. That's a good question. Since the rats abandoning ship always know the best escape route, let's follow their example. We can head south to the Caribbean. Admiral Birdie should be there this time of year, and no doubt has some jobs we can run. Both Kian and Captain Roth knew where to find us. Under the circumstances, that's making me a bit nervous.
Yukiko (to Victor): Alright, south it is… Be careful in New London.
Victor (to Yukiko): I will. I'll skip to my Mom's place, so I can get around without being seen. I love you. You be careful too! I'll see you soon.
Yukiko (to Victor): I love you too. Come back soon.
Victor (to Yukiko): Heh. Like I could stay away. (to Felix) You're on the bridge, Felix! Yuki has the coordinates.
Yukiko (to Felix): Come on, Mister Baldwin. There's work to be done. We've got to get the Sister in the air.
Felix (to Zoe): Heh. Aye, ma'am. (to Zoe) Come on, pretty girl. You can help?
Zoe (to Yukiko & Felix): Oh, sure.
Yukiko (to Zoe): So, Zoe, you'll be staying onboard from now on, I take it?
Zoe (to Yukiko & Felix): … Oh, I don't know… Maybe… I don't want to impose. But, you guys need help with Victor being gone, right?
Yukiko (to Zoe): Yes, but I'm not sure your parents are going to be happy about that now that Felix is up & moving around.
Zoe (to Yukiko): … Oh. You might be right about that.
Felix (to Zoe): I wouldn't complain if you stayed a bit longer.
Yukiko (to Felix): Of course, YOU wouldn't.
Zoe (to Yukiko): Yuki! Come on, we're on the same side. You're living with Victor. I have my own room, I'm not playing house. Yuki! Come on, we're on the same side. You're living with Victor. I have my own room, I'm not playing house.
Yukiko (to Zoe & Felix): Fine. Clearly I'm not going to win this argument… Zoe, you can stay until Victor returns or we get to Birdie's, whichever one comes first. No arguments, no discussions. Or you can go right now. The last thing I need is for your parents to be mad at us for letting their teenage daughter shack up with her hot pirate boyfriend.
Felix (to Yukiko): Aye aye, boss lady. (to Zoe) Know when you're beat, pretty girl.
Zoe (to Yukiko): But--
Yukiko (to Zoe): No buts. On either side, I'm legally an adult. Victor is only a short time away from being 18. You are not.
Zoe (to Yukiko & Felix): Fine… I'll go plug in the coordinates… You're a real bitch sometimes, you know.
Yukiko (to Zoe): I'm completely fine with that. (to Felix) Felix, if you could take the helm. I'm going to go check on the engine.
Felix (to Yukiko): I've got it.
A couple minutes later:
Felix (to Zoe): Stop your pouting.
Zoe (to Felix): I'm not pouting. I'm pissed. She's such a fucking hypocrite.
Felix (to Zoe): ... She might be. You had to know sooner or later Momma Bear and Poppa would call you home.
Zoe (to Felix): … I know but, they've let me stay all this time. I just thought that they were fine with me staying since they haven't said anything about it to me during any of their visits.
Felix (to Zoe): ... Hmmm. Yes... That begs the question what's going on that she's not telling us about, doesn't it?
Zoe (to Felix): It certainly does… Fucking spies.
Felix (to Zoe): We'd best make the most of the time we have then, hadn't we?
Zoe (to Felix): Yeah, I suppose… Heh. I love you. Thanks for being a calming effect for my bad temper.
Felix (to Zoe): I love you too, bad temper and all.
At Aiden's house; New London, Britannia:
Lily (to Victor): Hi! Who are you? Where did you come from? Are you magical? Oh my gosh, are you a fairy?
Victor (to Lily): ...Oh. Hullo. I'm sorry. I wasn't expecting anyone to be out here. My name is Victor, and no, I'm not a fairy. I have a portal generator. You must be Lilian.
Lily (to Victor): Really!?! Can I see it? I was reading an article about them in one of the publications in the library. And yes, I'm Lilian. Your name is Victor? Oh! You're Persephone & Daddy's cousin. I've heard about you. You don't look like a stuffed shirt.
Victor (to Lily): Heh. You have heard about me then. Are either one of your fathers about? I need to speak to them.
Lily (to Victor): Daddy is at a funeral, but 2nd Daddy is in the kitchen with Mrs. Esterly.
Victor (to Lily): ... Good. I need to speak to Mrs. Esterly too. What other kinds of of books have you been reading?
Lily (to Victor): Mrs. Esterly has been reading mysteries with me, Daddy & I have been reading adventures. And, on my own I've been reading history & science books… Daddy wants to send me to school but I don't want to go.
Victor (to Lily): How come?
Lily (to Victor): He's talking about the boarding school that he went to. I just found them, I don't want to live far away. I can just go to school here. I don't mind.
Victor (to Lily): Heh. Well, I can't blame you for that.
Lily (to Victor): Heehee. Thank you for that. I'm going to climb this tree now. I'm sure you need to tell Daddy & Mrs. Esterly your news.
Victor (to Lily): I do. Thank you. It was very nice meeting you, Lilian.
Lily (to Victor): … Oh, it was very nice to meet you, too…
A moment later:
Victor: Hullo? Is anyone home?
Nathaniel (to Victor): Victor? What the hell brings you over here? Heh. Aunt Poppy and Uncle Vincent want you to check up on us?
Persephone (to Victor): Victor! Have you gotten married & had 2.5 children since I saw you last?
Joseph (to Persephone): Seph, can't you just say hello?
Victor (to Nathaniel): Heh. Hi, Second Daddy. (to Persephone) Yes. Me and the Mrs. are thinking of adopting a dog as well.
Persephone (to Joseph): Well, yes. But, where would the fun in that be? (to Victor) Heehee. Really? And, here I thought you & Yuki were cat people.
Victor (to Persephone): Not with Zoe's ruddy squirrel in the ship. (to Joseph) Hullo, Joseph. Nice to see you again. (to Nathaniel) Nate? May I speak to you privately?
Joseph (to Victor): Nice to see you, too.
Nathaniel (to Victor): Yeah. Hold on a sec... (to Persephone & Joseph) One of you keep an eye on this, alright?
Persephone (to Nathaniel): Of course. (to Victor) Victor, you want to stay for dinner?
Victor (to Persephone): I would love to, normally, but I can't.
Persephone (to Victor): That's a shame. Nate made your Aunt Emma's gumbo.
Victor (to Persephone): Really, damn. That is a shame...
Nathaniel (to Victor): Stop thinking with your damn stomach and tell me what's going on.
Victor (to Nathaniel): Hiiri killed Wilkinson. Captain Roth contacted us to warn us. Apparently, she was "returning your favor."
Nathaniel (to Victor): ... Yeah. We knew he was dead. His body was discovered on Roland's front steps. It wasn't hard figuring out who was responsible for that clusterfuck... Good to hear it from the horse's mouth, though. Heh. Captain Roth got herself out, huh?
Victor (to Nathaniel): Was she the one who grabbed you?
Nathaniel (to Victor): Yeah.
Victor (to Nathaniel): ... Why did you warn her?
Nathaniel (to Victor): I dunno. I guess I felt bad for her. She didn't really look like she wanted to be involved in any of that shit. Heh. I know the fucking feeling. So you staying for dinner, or are you gonna talk to your mom and dad next?
Victor (to Nathaniel): I'm going to see my parents. Will you tell Mrs. Esterly when you see her?
Nathaniel (to Victor): Yeah. Course.
Victor (to Nathaniel): Lilian seems like a smart, nice little girl, who REALLY doesn't want to go to boarding school.
Nathaniel (to Victor): Heh. Yeah. The Lil' Bit's alright. And believe me, we ALL know how she feels about boarding school. She ain't shy.
Victor (to Nathaniel): No, she is not. Heh. I'll see you later, 2nd Daddy. ...Stay safe.
Nathaniel (to Victor): Yeah, yeah. We will. You too, alright? We ain't gonna be the only ones on her hit list, you know.
Victor (to Nathaniel): Bye, Nate.
A moment later, in the kitchen:
Nathaniel (to Persephone & Joseph): You know, if that dinner is burnt because you two were too busy fucking making out...
Joseph (to Nathaniel): She's been stirring it religiously, Nate.
Persephone (to Nathaniel): We can control ourselves, grumpy ass.
Nathaniel (to Persephone & Joseph): Really? Damn. Y'all gotta get your priorities straight. I wouldn't have been behaving.
Persephone (to Nathaniel): Well, that's because you're a flossy, Nate. ;-P
Nathaniel (to Persephone & Joseph): What the hell's a flossy?
Persephone (to Nathaniel): Heh. I meant a floozie. We've been drinking.
Joseph (to Nathaniel & Persephone): Shhhh… We managed to hide it this far.
Nathaniel (to Joseph): You think so, huh? That's fuckin' adorable.
Persephone (to Nathaniel): Oh, like you've never done it before. Hush.
Nathaniel (to Persephone): Who me? Never. (to Joseph) Heh. I don't think I've seen you grin that much since you were stoned after... Shit. Heh. Sorry. That wasn't you. Never mind.
Joseph (to Nathaniel): Oh? Did alternate me get to hook up with Seph sooner? Cuz, I'd be very jealous of myself.
Persephone (to Joseph): Heehee. You are such a lightweight.
Nathaniel (to Joseph & Persephone): Heh. Yeah you are. This is just about done. Where's the kid?
Persephone (to Nathaniel): In the tree reading a book.
Nathaniel (to Joseph & Persephone): She's what? ...Heh. Yeah she is. I'll go grab her.
A couple minutes later:
Nathaniel (to Lily): Hey, Lil' Bit! You ready to eat?
Lily (to Nathaniel): Yes! I'm starving. Where'd your cousin go? Is he staying for dinner? Can I sit next to him?
Nathaniel (to Lily): Victor? He had to go talk to his folks, so he couldn't stay. Which is probably a good thing, cuz between the two of you I'd need to make a second pot of gumbo. Need help getting down?
Lily (to Nathaniel): Nope. I got it... Oof. I've never had gumbo.
Nathaniel (to Lily): Heh. So I see. It's from the southeastern Colonies. Don't worry. I'm sure my cousin'll come visit when he can.
Lily (to Nathaniel): He's very handsome.
Nathaniel (to Lily): ... Oh yeah? You think so?
Lily (to Nathaniel): … Yes, very much so.
Nathaniel (to Lily): Heh. Guess so. C'mon. Let's get you fed.
Lily (to Nathaniel): Okay.
A couple minutes later, in the kitchen:
Nathaniel (to Lily): Hopefully, Seph and Joe have got the table... HOLY SHIT! Don't look! (to Persephone & Joseph) Seriously, guys?
Lily (to Nathaniel): Heehee. They must really like each other.
Nathaniel (to Lily): Yes. Yes, they do.
A couple hours later, at Casino de la Renard; Nice, French Republic:
Park Sang Gi (to Ariadne): … Well, hello beautiful! Is Park Ji Yong around?
Ariadne (to Sang Gi): He's presently with a patron discussing an issue… Can I help you?
Sang Gi (to Ariadne): I can certainly think of a few things you could help me with, pretty lady… But, I really do need to speak to Ji Yong.
Ariadne (to Sang Gi): Heehee. Well, aren't you a sassy one… I'm sure I can interrupt him, if it's important. Who should I say is here?
Sang Gi (to Ariadne): I'm his brother… His younger brother. Sang Gi is my name but you can just call me Gee.
Ariadne (to Sang Gi): Oh yes, of course. I'll see what I can do.
Sang Gi (to Ariadne): Thank you, beautiful.
A couple minutes later:
Ariadne (to Ji Yong): … Um, Mister Yong? I'm sorry to interrupt but your "brother" is here.
Ji Yong (to Ariadne): My brother? That's entirely... True. So he is. Excuse me.
Bianca (to Ariadne): Hari? If you keep making that face, it may stick like that & then, you'll never find a husband.
Ariadne (to Bianca): … What? Oh, sorry. Do you think that's really his brother? Or some boyfriend?
Bianca (to Ariadne): Who do I think is what? And why should I care?
Ariadne (to Bianca): … Nothing. Nevermind. Go back to selling off your favors for a significant markup.
Bianca (to Ariadne): As if I've never heard that sort of thing before… But, I should be getting back to the Duke. My advice to you is to stop staring & go back to work. Whatever is going on is private & not for you to know.
Ariadne (to Bianca): … I can't believe I'm about to say this but you're probably right.
Ji Yong (to Sang Gi): <What are you doing here, Gee? What's going on?>
Sang Gi (to Ji Yong): I just arrived home & I thought I'd say hello. It's been forever. I thought you'd be happy to see me.
Ji Yong (to Sang Gi): Of course. I apologize. I thought something had gone amiss. ...WHY are you home?
Sang Gi (to Ji Yong): Ennui, homesickness… I ran out of money.
Ji Yong (to Sang Gi): Fils de pute... How are you out of money, Sang Gi? What I provide you with monthly is more than enough to cover school, board, food... How did you lose it?
Sang Gi (to Ji Yong): I didn't lose it, per se, mon frère. I just lost my spending money on a bet. Besides, I really was bored, school's out, all my mates have been off on vacation. So, I thought I'd come see you & spend my last two weeks here. Is that so bad?
Ji Yong (to Sang Gi): Yes. Last time you visited, I had to work for Mr. Rodchenko for a month and a half for free to cover your debt. I've blacklisted you in every casino in Nice, incidentally.
Sang Gi (to Ji Yong): Spoilsport… Well, I may have found something to occupy my time with that's not gambling… Who's the fresh talent? She wasn't here the last time I was here or I would have remembered.
Ji Yong (to Sang Gi): Who are you... That's Ms. Fenris. She's a relative of my employer's, so unless you want to be back in St. Francis's orphanage, you will treat her with respect. If I'm fired, we are both going to suffer for it.
Sang Gi (to Ji Yong): Yes, yes, Ji Yong. I will behave like a gentleman with Ms. Fenris. Heh. For a second, I thought she might be yours, but that would be impossible. I doubt you could handle that kind of woman… (to Rachel) Excuse me, miss, can I get a whiskey & soda? Merci.
Ji Yong (to Sang Gi): How exactly are you going to pay for that, Gee? I'm not giving you anything else until school starts again. And you are correct. Ms. Fenris and I are... We're seeing one another.
Sang Gi (to Ji Yong): … Wow. You would really say anything to keep me from talking to her. Don't worry, I won't get you in trouble with your boss. Hand to God. And, I happen to have enough for one drink.
Ji Yong (to Sang Gi): Thank you. Excuse me. I should get back to work.
Sang Gi (to Ji Yong): I'll be right here.
Ji Yong (to Sang Gi): Mmmm...
An hour or so later:
Ariadne (to Ji Yong): Mister Yong, would you like someone to go keep an eye on your visitor?
Ji Yong (to Ariadne): I'm afraid someone might have to. He's been blacklisted, but my brother... I'm afraid he'll be a nuisance while he's here.
Ariadne (to Ji Yong): I'll have Collette keep him company, she should keep his attention. Or would it be better to have a gentleman? Or I could do it… Which would you prefer?
Ji Yong (to Ariadne): No, Collette should do fine, though she may refuse after last year... He has been told to treat you respectfully.
Ariadne (to Ji Yong): What!?! Heehee. What did the little brother do to upset Collette?
Ji Yong (to Ariadne): I'm not really sure, but she was very cross when he went back to school.
Ariadne (to Ji Yong): It'll be fine… I'll go ask her & if she says no, I'll handle it. Okay?
Ji Yong (to Ariadne): ...Very well. Please don't let him harass you.
Ariadne (to Ji Yong): Ain't no thing like a chicken wing… I can handle a lusty young man out for adventure.
Ji Yong (to Ariadne): Uh. Yes. As you say.
A moment later:
Grigori (to Ji Yong): So, the rumors are true. Gee is visiting us again.
Ji Yong (to Grigori): ...Yes, sir.
Grigori (to Ji Yong): Heh heh. Don't worry. We won't let him get you into too much trouble.
Ji Yong (to Grigori): Thank you, Mr. Rodchenko.
Grigori (to Ji Yong): Heh heh. Calm down, Mr. Yong. I promise you, Ariadne can handle herself. Go back to work, please.
Ji Yong (to Grigori): ... Yes, sir.
Ariadne (to Sang Gi): Hello again. Gee was it? I'm Hari. I thought you looked lonely over here.
Sang Gi (to Ariadne): Really? You weren't sent over here to be my babysitter by Ji Yong?
Ariadne (to Sang Gi): Heehee. Well, that's not a very nice way of putting it but, yeah. So, you're really his brother? I thought he was an orphan.
Sang Gi (to Ariadne): We are. There's just the two of us. We grew up at the St. Francis orphanage until he was tapped by le Poignard Maison. And then, he sent me off to a boarding school in Switzerland so that I could have a "proper" education.
Ariadne (to Sang Gi): Really? Tell me more… I'll get us some drinks… non-alcoholic drinks.
Sang Gi (to Ariadne): Come on, pretty lady. You worried that you can't control yourself around me?
Ariadne (to Sang Gi): Yes, that's it exactly… Hands to yourself!
Sang Gi (to Ariadne): Heh. You can't blame a guy for trying.
Ariadne (to Sang Gi): Yes, I can. Stop acting like a spoiled brat. It's not cool or sexy.
Sang Gi (to Ariadne): What?
Ariadne (to Sang Gi): You heard me. Your brother has clearly been trying to do the best he can to make sure that you're taken care of & you come around here acting like an overly-privileged little douche. Now, we can sit here & have a nice evening or I can ask him to sit here with you, which is probably why you're really here but too stubborn to admit.
Sang Gi (to Ariadne): … I think I'd prefer it if you stayed, pret-- Hari.
Ariadne (to Sang Gi): Heh. You two are way too much alike… I'll be right back. (to Ji Yong) Excuse me, Mister Yong. Can I speak to you in private for a minute?
Ji Yong (to Ariadne): Yes, of course.
Ariadne (to Ji Yong): I don't want to overstep my bounds but, I think your brother is here to simply see you. He acts out just to get your attention. I'll trade you. You sit with him. I'll make the rounds & grab you if I need you.
Ji Yong (to Ariadne): ... Very good. (to Sang Gi) Ms Fenris suggested that I come sit with you.
Sang Gi (to Ji Yong): Oh… She's a sneaky one. I thought she was joking.
Ariadne (to Ji Yong & Sang Gi): Sorry for the interruption, but Ji Yong you left before I could give you this...
Sang Gi: … Daaammmmnnnn…
Ji Yong (to Ariadne): Har... Ms Fenris! We're working.
Ariadne (to Ji Yong): Yes, and I should get back to it. (to Sang Gi & Ji hong) Now, play nice, boys.
Ji Yong (to Ariadne): ...
Sang Gi (to Ji Yong): HAHAHA! Mon dieu. You are in trouble, Ji Yong.
Ji Yong (to Sang Gi): Yes. I believe I am.
Sang Gi (to Ji Yong): I didn't think you dated.
Ji Yong (to Sang Gi): I didn't. But Ms. Fenris, Hari, is a very... unique woman.
Sang Gi (to Ji Yong): Yeah, I can see that… Did you know she yelled at me? Actually yelled at me. Told me that I was being an over-privileged, spoiled brat… No one has ever said that kind of stuff to me before…
Ji Yong (to Sang Gi): Heh. Well, you do have a propensity for acting like a child when you want something. Is everything really alright?
Sang Gi (to Ji Yong): … No… The headmaster wants to expel me, Ji Yong. I have high marks, I keep my head down but he doesn't seem to like me.
Ji Yong (to Sang Gi): ... I see. Merde. Cet homme est un crétin... I apologize, Gee. Mr. Anderhub contacted me last year. He had concerns that our family wasn't the "right sort of element" for the school. He wanted to raise your tuition to an exorbitant amount we wouldn't be able to afford.
Sang Gi (to Ji Yong): Oh… I was worried that it was because of Amelie.
Ji Yong (to Sang Gi): ... Who is Amelie?
Sang Gi (to Ji Yong): His stepdaughter to be, his fiancée's daughter. She's been harassed by a couple of older boys, so I've been walking her home after school. We're just friends… He expressed his distaste for it once or twice.
Ji Yong (to Sang Gi): I think that's because I threatened to expose the fact that his grandfather made their family fortune running brothels & opium. That isn't the worst of it. Very few "fine" families are any different than the people with whom I work.
Sang Gi (to Ji Yong): They did? Wow. So, what do we do?
Ji Yong (to Sang Gi): I can speak to Mr. Anderhub, and remind him that making your time in school difficult is a foolish idea. But I fear that would not help your friendship with Amelie.
Sang Gi (to Ji Yong): We are just friends, Ji Yong… She has boyfriend, Bartholomew, that goes to another school.
Ji Yong (to Sang Gi): I don't believe I suggested otherwise. Very well. If you have no objections, I may be able to keep Mr. Anderhub from causing you any more undue trouble.
Sang Gi (to Ji Yong): I would appreciate it… Do I really make your life difficult?
Ji Yong (to Sang Gi): Yes. Sometimes. Just as I make your life complicated. You're my brother. I would much rather have you in my life than have an easier time of it... I hope you feel the same.
Sang Gi (to Ji Yong): I do… Heh. Your girlfriend really is something. You never would have come and talked to me if she hadn't suggested it.
Ji Yong (to Sang Gi): No. I would not. Why didn't you tell me what was really going on?
Sang Gi (to Ji Yong): Because, you always seem so busy.
Ji Yong (to Sang Gi): I am busy. But if you need me to do so, I can make time for you.
Sang Gi (to Ji Yong): Oh… I don't know what to say… Thank you. Do you want me to go back now or can I stay here with you until my vacation is over? I promise I won't act like a duchy.
Ji Yong (to Sang Gi): You can stay if you'd like. What is a duchy?
Sang Gi (to Ji Yong): I'm not really sure… Har-- Miss Fenris called me that earlier when she was scolding me.
Ji Yong (to Sang Gi): I see... There's much that she says I don't understand.
Sang Gi (to Ji Yong): Heh. You really like her, don't you? It's nice to see, mon frére. I often worry about you being all alone.
Ji Yong (to Sang Gi): I'm not sure I know what to say to that.
Sang Gi (to Ji Yong): Heh. You could just go steal her away from the fat man that she's currently flirting with & leave me 20 pounds for drinks… It's just an idea.
Ji Yong (to Sang Gi): ... Or I could give you 10 and get back to work.
Sang Gi (to Ji Yong): Heh. Or you could do that… Spoilsport.
Ji Yong (to Sang Gi): Here you are. Behave.
Sang Gi (to Ji Yong): Yes, sir. :-P
A short time later:
Ji Yong (to Ariadne): Thank you for your help this evening, Ms. Fenris.
Ariadne (to Ji Yong): Oh. You're very welcome, Mister Yong… Heh. By the way, that kiss made us so much money at the bar & tables… Most everyone bought me drinks & made ridiculous bets when I came around the tables. Heh. We should do that more often.
Ji Yong (to Ariadne): Oh? ... Perhaps we should. Excuse me. I should get back to work.
Ariadne (to Ji Yong): Is that the only reason you came over here?
Ji Yong (to Ariadne): No. May I see you after work? I may be a bit late. I need to make arrangements for my brother.
Ariadne (to Ji Yong): I would like that & I don't mind it being late. I'm usually up for a bit after I get done, anyway.
Ji Yong (to Ariadne): Very good. I'll see you then. Excuse me.
Ariadne (to Ji Yong): Okay. See you then. (to Bianca) I swear, Bianca, I will wipe that stupid smirk off your face…
Bianca (to Ariadne): Don't mind me, I just came to get a drink… I hope you know what you're doing with Mister Yong.
Ariadne (to Bianca): I'm not sure what you mean.
Bianca (to Ariadne): He's always been closed off, guarded & business-like…You may be getting more than you bargained for opening those doors, sweetie. I've seen it happen before.
Ariadne (to Bianca): I'll keep that in mind.
Bianca (to Ariadne): You should… Soon, you won't have me here to watch out for you. My time here is quickly coming to an end.
Ariadne (to Bianca): Oh really? That's such a shame… I should really go check on… something.
At Aiden's house; New London, Britannia:
Nathaniel (to Aiden): Hey. You're back. You want something to eat? I saved you some supper.
Aiden (to Nathaniel): I'm not really hungry, handsome, I ate during the wake. Is the Lil Bit in bed?
Nathaniel (to Aiden): Yeah. Everyone else turned in. How're you doin'?
Aiden (to Nathaniel): I'm fine. I know how to deal with death, it's everything else that I often have difficulties with. :-)
Nathaniel (to Aiden): Heh. Not everything. :-P
Aiden (to Nathaniel): Oh? Are you coming onto me, Mister Jones?
Nathaniel (to Aiden): Shit yeah, I am. Have you SEEN you?
Aiden (to Nathaniel): Heh. Every morning when I shave. I still don't quite understand your fascination with my appearance but I'm grateful for it.
Nathaniel (to Aiden): Yeah, yeah. Sell the false modesty someplace else. You're hot as shit, and you know it. So... I got a question for you. Heh. And if you want me to keep kissing on you, you're gonna answer it...
Aiden (to Nathaniel): Heh. Well, then clearly I have to say ask away, then.
Nathaniel (to Aiden): How come you didn't tell me Hiiri was the one who killed Wilkinson? S'not like I didn't already figure on that...
Aiden (to Nathaniel): Because, Roland didn't tell me & the note just said, 'a friend'. I didn't want to jump to any conclusions without proof. And, to be honest, I was kind of hoping it wasn't her.
Nathaniel (to Aiden): Yeah. It was. Captain Roth radioed Victor to warn him... So that was it? No secret worrying I was gonna flip my shit? You tell me the truth and I'll keep doing this...
Aiden (to Nathaniel): … If that thought crossed my mind at all it was just for a moment. After everything that has happened recently, I'm fairly certain you could handle it… and, that is very distracting.
Nathaniel (to Aiden): Heh. I know. Tell ya the truth, I figured that was the case. I can't help it if you're kinda adorable when you're flustered. Didn't they teach you to deal with this kinda questioning in spy school? :-P
Aiden (to Nathaniel): You know that they don't… Mostly torture. Hell, if I had interrogations like this, I would have gotten captured more.
Nathaniel (to Aiden): Ha ha ha! Yeah, yeah. I'll bet you say that to all the cute CLANNG operatives with their hands under your clothes...
Aiden (to Nathaniel): I'm not quite sure. Should we go find one or two to test the theory?
Nathaniel (to Aiden): Sure. I didn't think you were into that kinda thing, but--hey--we got a kid now and we're gonna get married and shit, right? We gotta keep the spark alive somehow...
Aiden (to Nathaniel): You know perfectly well that you're the only one for me.
Nathaniel (to Aiden): Heh. Yeah. I do. Don't know what I did to deserve luck this good, but right now I don't care... C'mon.
Aiden (to Nathaniel): Wait. C'mere. I want to kiss you right here.
Nathaniel (to Aiden): Heh. I ain't gonna say no to that...
Aiden (to Nathaniel): You're very wise.
Nathaniel (to Aiden): Heh. Yeah. That's why you love me. My big sexy-ass brains... You alright?
Aiden (to Nathaniel): I am better than alright at the moment. But, it may simply be due to you.
Nathaniel (to Aiden): Heh. Alright then. How 'bout I take you upstairs and make sure you're better than alright?
Aiden (to Nathaniel): Heh. Allow me to carry you. I know how much you find that hot.
Nathaniel (to Aiden): ... Yeah. So what if I do? Not my fault. If you didn't have, like, 5 inches on me and like 80 pounds, I'd show.... Oh shit! Heh. I fuckin' love you. How 'bout you carry me up them stairs and have your fuckin' way with me?
Aiden (to Nathaniel): I thought that's what we were trying to do but we keep getting waylaid... Pun very much intended.
Nathaniel (to Aiden): Nope. Sorry. You missed your window. Put me down. I'm gonna... Oh shit! I'm gonna carry YOU upstairs, Mr. Wilkes. Heh... Shit. I'm gonna try, at least.
Aiden (to Nathaniel): Heh. I love you, Nate. C'mon.
A few hours later, at Casino de la Renard; Nice, French Republic:
Ariadne: Oh shit... Is that the date tomorrow? Well, happy birthday to me.
Ji Yong (to Ariadne): 'm sorry I kept you waiting. Gee was... He's quite amused at seeing me date someone.
Ariadne (to Ji Yong): Uh huh... How come I never knew you had a brother?
Ji Yong (to Ariadne): ... I suppose I don't talk very much about myself. To be fair, neither do you.
Ariadne (to Ji Yong): I guess that's true... I'll tell you whatever you want to know.
Ji Yong (to Ariadne): ... I'm not sure what to ask, to be honest. You seem to be alone. Is this an accurate assumption?
Ariadne (to Ji Yong): Yeah... I had a family once but they're all gone. I've been on my own for awhile, now. I-- I'm not from this side. That's why I say weird things & dress a little odd sometimes.
Ji Yong (to Ariadne): ... Oh? Oh! Yes, I understand. That would certainly explain... It would explain why you are the way you are. Why stay here?
Ariadne (to Ji Yong): There was an accident three years ago & well, I don't have anywhere else to go.
Ji Yong (to Ariadne): Ah. I understand... And, I'm sorry. Is there anything you would like to know about me?
Ariadne (to Ji Yong): Honestly? Everything... But, I understand if that's a little overwhelming.
Ji Yong (to Ariadne): ... Yes. I'm not quite sure where to start.
Ariadne (to Ji Yong): It's okay... Just kiss me & say happy birthday.
Ji Yong (to Ariadne): Is it your birthday? Would you like to... I'm not sure. Don't people normally do something for their birthdays?
Ariadne (to Ji Yong): Heh. Yeah, some people celebrate with presents, cards, cakes, balloons, parties. But, I'm fine with the kiss. It was very nice.
Ji Yong (to Ariadne): ... As you say. I'm not sure when my birthday is. Gee always insists it's the day before his, but I'm not sure that's true.
Ariadne (to Ji Yong): Oh... That's both adorable & sad, Ji Yong.
Ji Yong (to Ariadne): Is it? ... Oh. Happy birthday. I should have said that sooner.
Ariadne (to Ji Yong): Thank you... I'm 26 now, if you wanted to know... Is this weird? We shouldn't force this whole relationship thing. Can we just relax & be ourselves?
Ji Yong (to Ariadne): I think perhaps we should relax... I'm not sure I know what to do in a "relationship thing."
Ariadne (to Ji Yong): Heehee. Neither do I, apparently. We could just jump right to what we do know how to do & save the getting to know each other portion for another time. Though, I do like that you were trying.
Ji Yong (to Ariadne): Yes! I mean... That would be amenable to me.
Ariadne (to Ji Yong): I figured that was why you wanted to see me, anyway. ;-)
Ji Yong (to Ariadne): ... Yes. I'm sorry. Am I making you uncomfortable?
Ariadne (to Ji Yong): Not at all. I look forward to spending time alone with you, Ji Yong.
Ji Yong (to Ariadne): Oh? Oh. Yes... Good. I do too.
Ariadne (to Ji Yong): So, what did you tell Gee about me? And us?
Ji Yong (to Ariadne): That we were seeing one another. He didn't believe me at first.
Ariadne (to Ji Yong): Oh. Heh. I guess we are doing that... C'mere.
