Back in the Future, Day 48

Aboard the CLANNG vessel Holden, New London, Britannia:

Hiiri (to Starling): Miss Starling, is our marvelous leader taking visitors?

Starling (to Hiiri): Yes, Miss Hiiri. We didn't realize you were in New London. I'll let him know you're here. (to Carver) Mister Carver sir, you have a visitor.

Carver (to Starling): Who is it, Miss?

Starling (to Carver): It's Miss Hiiri, sir. 

Carver (to Starling): Oh! We didn't realize she was in England. Please show her in immediately, miss.

Starling (to Carver): Of course, sir. (to Hiiri) He'll see you now, Miss Hiiri.

Hiiri (to Starling): Thank you, Starling. You know, you may want to have that arm looked at. It doesn't look very useful like that.

Starling (to Hiiri): It's alright. It's my punishment for failure, miss.

Hiiri (to Carver): Carver, you know you shouldn't play so rough with your favorite toys.

Carver (to Hiiri): Hello, Mistress. We're very sorry, miss. You know how we get. It's very nice to see you again, miss.

Hiiri (to Carver): I've been hearing reports about your progress, little brother. I'm quite proud of you... and Other Carver. Well done.

Carver (to Hiiri): We're pleased that you're pleased, Miss. We must admit that we're getting a bit restless. Especially Other Carver, miss.

Hiiri (to Carver): I know & you have been playing your role to perfection. It's not much longer & then I'll let you run wild. I promise.

Carver (to Hiiri): We look forward to that day, Mistress. Very much. You know we're not a patient man, miss.

Hiiri (to Carver): I promise it will be well worth the wait. The pieces are failing perfectly into place & soon we will have everything we want, including those particular playthings you have always wanted to play with... It's so exciting.

Carver (to Hiiri): You do know how to keep our attention, Mistress.

Hiiri (to Carver): I do try... (to Starling) Give us some privacy, Starling.

Starling (to Carver & Hiiri): Oh, is that what you want, sir?

Carver (to Starling): Please excuse us, Miss Starling. We will see you shortly, miss.

Starling (to Carver): Yes sir. If you need anything you know where to find me, sir.

Carver (to Starling): We do, miss. Thank you, miss.

Hiiri (to Carver): I thought she'd never leave.

Carver (to Hiiri): Yes, mistress.

At Poppy & Vincent's apartment, West Piedmont:

Nathaniel: Who the fuck?! ... Aiden. It's Aiden, jackass. Go back to sleep.

Aiden (to Nathaniel): Huh? Shhhh… Go back to sleep.

Nathaniel (to Aiden): Yeah. Sorry...

Aiden (to Nathaniel): It's alright. I was just laying here trying to decide if I should get up and have a smoke or continue to enjoy being in bed.

Nathaniel (to Aiden): Heh. I think I'm gonna stay here. I'm still not...

Aiden (to Nathaniel): … Heh. Still not what?

Nathaniel (to Aiden): Huh? Sorry. Heh. Still not awake. You keep putting me back to sleep.

Aiden (to Nathaniel): Oh? That doesn't sound like a good thing, at all. Is it the hair stroking? I'll stop it, if you like.

Nathaniel (to Aiden): I wasn't a complaining...

Aiden (to Nathaniel): Nate? Have you fallen back asleep or can I talk to you for a minute?

Nathaniel (to Aiden): Huh? No. I'm... I'm up. Mostly up.

Aiden (to Nathaniel): Okay… Um, how would you feel if I had to stay over on this side for awhile? I'm not sure what the situation is back home but the fact that Miss Starling came to take me to see Carver is a bit disturbing. Which means Seph won't be safe if I go to the inn… and well, your uncle said a few things to me last night that started me thinking. I don't think Seph & I should get married. I know, she wants to get away from the inn & she's going to be livid at me… not to mention Victor & your aunt, as well. But, no matter how much I love her, I can't help shake the feeling that she's not in love with me & that would be a terribly one-sided marriage.

Nathaniel (to Aiden): Oh. Wow. Um... Jesus. I don't know what to say. I mean, I, uh, I wouldn't mind you being here, at all, but that's... That's a lot of upheaval. And I don't know jack shit about relationships, but if you don't think you'll be happy...

Aiden (to Nathaniel): Well, honestly, there's someone else I think I would much rather spend my time with, who I think feels the same about me... I could be wrong, though. He has a tendency to simply swear a lot when he's talking, so it's a bit tricky. :-P

Nathaniel (to Aiden): Shit... I do. This is gonna be messy as fuck. I mean, messy as, um... Fuck you. I don't cuss that much!

Aiden (to Nathaniel): You're cute when you're flustered, you know that?

Nathaniel (to Aiden): Yeah, well, you... You... Wow. You shouldn't kiss me like that. There's no door on this room, you know...

Aiden (to Nathaniel): I know. And, I promised Vincent nothing would happen, but sleeping. So, behave.

Nathaniel (to Aiden): I'm behaving! I am fucking behaving. I wasn't the one who started with all the kissing and compliments and shit...

Aiden (to Nathaniel): Heh… I'll try to remember that.

Zoe (to Nathaniel): Nate, are you in there? I thought I heard you… Oh, sorry… I didn't realize you had company… Oops.

Aiden (to Zoe): Good morning, Miss Zoe.

Nathaniel (to Zoe & Aiden): Calm down. Everyone is fully dressed. All hands are above the waist. I should probably get up anyway, and... Jesus in a shithouse! I still feel like lukewarm hell...

Zoe (to Aiden): Hi, Aiden. (to Nathaniel) You opened a portal with a passenger, huh? I'll grab you some more juice. You're going to need it. You can't go from not using your ability to mach 10 in one fell swoop without feeling like shit, you know? And, you may want to take a shower. A cold one before you come out in public… Both of you.

Nathaniel (to Zoe): How did you know I... God. I've just decided I don't care. Juice would be good. Thanks.

Zoe (to Nathaniel): I just assumed… You were off running an errand for Poppy. You're suddenly back, but you didn't come say hello, & you look like shit. Plus, Aiden is here with you. You don't have to be a genius to figure out 2+2 is 4. Am I wrong?

Aiden (to Zoe): Heh… I can see why the ISS & CLANNG both want you, Miss Zoe.

Zoe (to Aiden): I'm not really sure if that's a compliment or not, Aiden. (to Nathaniel) I'll go get you that juice, now.

Nathaniel (to Aiden & Zoe): Thanks. And you are wrong! We took the magical rainbow bridge here. I'm having an allergic reaction to the gay.

Aiden (to Nathaniel): Really?

Nathaniel (to Aiden): Gimme a break. I feel like the floor of a taxi cab. I can't always be my usual witty and charming self.

Aiden (to Nathaniel): Fair enough. I'm going to grab myself a smoke on the balcony & then, head over to Yoyo's place. I'm going to need to find out how bad it is for me back home… Plus, a shower & hunting down a change of clothes might be good too.

Zoe (to Nathaniel): Here's your juice. Drink.

Nathaniel (to Zoe): Jesus. Alright. No need to be vaguely threatening about it.

Aiden (to Nathaniel): Yes, most definitely. (to Zoe) It was nice to see you again, Zoe.

Nathaniel (to Aiden): Yeah. Makes sense. I'll, um, see you later.

Zoe (to Aiden): Yeah, yeah. Nice to see you, too.

A few moments later:

Zoe (to Nathaniel): Holy fuckin' fat christ! What's going on? Why is Aiden in your bed in the house? Way to be subtle. Who am I kidding? No one in this fucking family seems to know how to be subtle. It's probably not even in our dictionary.

Nathaniel (to Zoe): Ouch! Stop... stop fucking smacking me, you fucking little terrorist! Your parents know he was here last night! 

Zoe (to Nathaniel): What!?! Goddamn it! I may have doomed my chances with Colin covering for you with everyone… Fuck. I should have just told Mom when she was grilling me the other night.

Nathaniel (to Zoe): I passed out after I opened a portal last night, and scared him, I guess. He asked Uncle Vincent if he could stay. They found out last night. It was kinda fucking obvious. What the fuck happened with Colin?

Zoe (to Nathaniel): I don't know... Mom invited him over for dinner as a way to squeeze information out of me. I've left him a couple messages & it's been dead silent on the other end. I think Mom scared him off. And, here I was trying to help you out & then all this. I'm a fucking idiot. I should have just spilled my guts when she first asked me what was going on with you two. Jerk.

Nathaniel (to Zoe): Shit... I'm sorry.

Zoe (to Nathaniel): It's fine… Doesn't mean I'm not going to be grumpy for a few days, though. I really liked him.

Nathaniel (to Zoe): I'm really sorry, Zoe.

Zoe (to Nathaniel): Yeah, whatever. I guess that's what I get for trying to be nice. You get a boyfriend & I don't.

Nathaniel (to Zoe): I... Oh Jesus... Remind me never, ever to fucking open a portal again. Come here. Want me to go... I dunno. Break his knees?

Zoe (to Nathaniel): No… It's okay. I can't really blame him… I'm going to go listen to old, sad music & be depressed in my room.

Nathaniel (to Zoe): Well, I can fucking blame him. If he let Aunt Poppy scare him away, fuck him. Lemme know if you need anything?

Zoe (to Nathaniel): Okay… Thanks.

A couple hours later, at Yukiko & Marlena's apartment, West Piedmont:

Aiden: Well, that went well… And by well I mean like a giant lead balloon that burst into flames & took out a small village filled with orphans.

Marlena (to Aiden): God fucking damn it! Don't fuck sneak up on someone like that! I very nearly… hit you with a spatula. Where the fuck does this thing keep coming from!?! That's not embarrassing in the slightest… Want some lunch? I'm making grilled cheese & tomato soup.

Aiden (to Marlena): Heh… I see the swearing is a family trait. That sounds lovely. I hope you don't mind but I bought a bottle of rum & wine... The wine is a thank you for letting me stay here present for you & the other is a 'I just called off my wedding' sorta thing.

Marlena (to Aiden): Here, let me get you a glass… God, I bet Seph was not happy about that.

Aiden (to Marlena): I believe that would be called the understatement of the century. She was quite livid. I hope she'll forgive me someday.

Marlena (to Aiden): She will… eventually.

At the Longfellow Inn, New London, Britannia:

Persephone: Grunt! So not fair! I was so close to getting away from this dump. Damn Aiden & his scruples. He's a spy, for god's sake, why does he have any of those, anyway? I thought they removed all of them when you signed on. (to Percy) Percy, do you still have that airship that aunt Poppy gave you?

Percy (to Persephone): Yes, honey… Why?

Persephone (to Percy): Pack your bags, kitten, we're going on an adventure.

Percy (to Persephone): I don't think-- Damn this programming, I can't say-- You're the boss, honey.

At Poppy & Vincent's apartment, West Piedmont:

Poppy (to Nathaniel): Hi there, honey. I brought you some lunch. How are you feeling?

Nathaniel (to Poppy): Like fu-- Um, not so hot. I'll be alright. Thank you for the food...

Poppy (to Nathaniel): Heehee, you're very welcome, honey… If you're feeling up to it. I'm going to need to talk to everyone in the living room...

Nathaniel (to Poppy): Um, yeah. Is everything OK?

Poppy (to Nathaniel): It's not about you, honey. I would just rather not repeat myself & this may affect all of you, so I want you to have a say. Eat your lunch & then join us. I'm still in the process of wrangling children. Vincent is still being a bit huffy as well so you have time.

Nathaniel (to Poppy): Oh. OK.

A moment later:

Poppy (to Victor): Victor honey, are you in here?

Victor (to Poppy): Right here! What's going on?

Poppy (to Victor): Honey, please grab your sister & join us in the living room. I'm calling a family meeting.

Victor (to Poppy): Oh. Uh, yes, ma'am. (to Zoe) Zoe? Are you... Are you listening to Dad's Cure albums in here?

Zoe (to Victor): Yes… They suit my mood. Gah! Don't turn on the light! I liked the room being dark… like my life. One big dark room.

Victor (to Zoe): Come on, Lydia. Mom's calling a family meeting. You can go back to pouting afterwards.

Zoe (to Victor): Fine… You're no fun, at all.

Meanwhile:

Yukiko (to Vincent): Hi Vincent, I got Poppy's message & came as soon as I could get out of class… This is about the mission, isn't it?

Vincent (to Yukiko): It is, hun. Do you know what it is already?

Yukiko (to Vincent): No, not really. What I was given said simply that I had a mission & that Poppy would fill me in on the details.

Vincent (to Yukiko): That's what we're doing. Come on. We're consolidating in the living room.

Yukiko (to Vincent): Oh okay… I take it it's pretty bad, huh?

Vincent (to Yukiko): I wish I could say otherwise.

A short time later:

Poppy (to Vincent, Nathaniel, Victor, Zoe & Yukiko): Thank you, sweeties, for coming to this meeting. God, I have no idea how to do this.

Vincent (to Poppy): I know, lover. (to Victor, Nathaniel, Yukiko & Zoe) Your mom has been asked to assassinate Director Carver by the Empress.

Zoe (to Vincent & Poppy): That's fucking insane!

Vincent (to Zoe): I know, sweetie.

Poppy (to Vincent, Nathaniel, Victor, Zoe & Yukiko): I'm supposed to have a partner & Yoyo was selected, but I'm going it alone.

Nathaniel (to Vincent & Poppy): But... I don't understand. Why would she ask Aunt Poppy?

Poppy (to Nathaniel): In my much younger days, I was an assassin known as the Magpie, honey. I retired a long time ago before I met your uncle.

Nathaniel (to Poppy): Jesus.

Victor (to Poppy): Are you going to do it?

Poppy (to Victor): I don't know, honey, that's why I wanted to talk to all you, first. This is a big deal

Victor (to Poppy): He could kill you, Mom.

Poppy (to Victor): I know, honey. But he needs to be stopped. My home, family & friends are in danger if he becomes prime minister.

Yukiko (to Poppy & Vincent): I'll do it, Poppy... You have a family to look after & you're out of practice. You haven't done this kind of work in a long, long time.

Victor (to Yukiko & Poppy): What!?!

Poppy (to Yukiko): Don't be ridiculous, honey.

Zoe (to Vincent, Victor, Nathaniel, Poppy & Yukiko): This is all so fucked up. I'm going to go smoke.

Nathaniel (to Zoe): I'm, uh, I'm coming too. Wait up.

Yukiko (to Poppy, Vincent & Victor): Look, I've been raised my whole life as an assassin & that's what I've been doing until now. It makes the most sense. Poppy can act as my handler & help me with the planning. I owe you all so much for helping me, it seems only fair that I do this for you.

Poppy (to Yukiko): Honey, that's very sweet of you but you have your whole life ahead of you. I couldn't let you do that.

Victor (to Yukiko): If you go, I'm going with you.

Vincent (to Poppy, Yukiko & Victor): Alright. Alright. Everyone calm down. No one under the age of 20 is assassinating anyone.

Poppy (to Victor): Honey, you are a bit too much like your father sometimes. (to Vincent) Talk to your son, lover.

Yukiko (to Vincent): You're really willing to let your wife do this? She might not come back.

Vincent (to Yukiko): Believe me, sweetie, I know.

Yukiko (to Poppy & Vincent): I don't mean to be insulting but you are both fucking crazy... I can totally do this.

Vincent (to Yukiko): No one doubts that, hun, and no offense, but you're a kid. Someone should give you a chance to be one.

Poppy (to Yukiko): Yoyo honey, you're not doing it & that's final. Go into the practice room. I need to show you something.

Yukiko (to Poppy): Fine... I just don't agree with this, at all.

Poppy (to Yukiko): Duly noted, honey. But I'm your superior officer... Get in that room.

Vincent (to Victor): How are you holding up, kiddo?

Victor (to Vincent): Does it matter?

Vincent (to Victor): Of course it does.

Victor (to Vincent): No. It doesn't.

Meanwhile:

Nathaniel (to Zoe): How you holding up?

Zoe (to Nathaniel): Fucking terrible... My mom just told me that she's going to kill someone & she might not come back. I just found them. Today can totally die in a fire.

Nathaniel (to Zoe): Come here.

Zoe (to Nathaniel): God... It must be really bad if you're willing to give me a hug for the second time today.

Nathaniel (to Zoe): Yeah. Well, as far as I can figure, it is. And you look like shit.

Zoe (to Nathaniel): Thanks. You have a true way with words.

Nathaniel (to Zoe): So I've been fucking told.

An hour or so later:

Yukiko (to Vincent & Victor): Vincent, you might want to bring Poppy some ice & a glass of whiskey.

Vincent (to Yukiko): Oh dear.

Victor (to Yukiko): What happened?

Yukiko (to Victor): Your mother wanted to teach me a lesson... I happen to be an A student much to her dismay, I think. She's sadly a bit rusty.

Victor (to Yukiko): You realize that I'm coming with you, don't you?

Yukiko (to Victor): Is insanity a family trait, Victor?

Victor (to Yukiko): Just now learning that, are you? Yoyo... I'm a skipper who can handle himself in a fight. I'm a excellent contingency plan, and you know it. Besides, try to go without me. :-p

Yukiko (to Victor): I give up! You are a wonderful pain in the ass.

Victor (to Yukiko): As long as you think I'm wonderful.

Vincent (to Poppy): Hun? I have a large bag of ice & an even larger bottle of whiskey.

Poppy (to Vincent): Thank you, lover. My plan backfired a bit.

Vincent (to Poppy): Good heavens. So I see. Here. Come here, lover.

A couple hours later:

Zoe: I have decided that this cure album is the music of my people... It speaks to me.

Victor (to Zoe): Zoe, are you awake?

Zoe (to Victor): Yeah… Is the music too loud? I can turn it down or put on headphones if it's bothering you.

Victor (to Zoe): No. It's not bothering me. I wanted to talk to you. Yoyo's taking Mom's assignment to assassinate Director Carver.

Zoe (to Victor): Oh? Why would she do that? I thought Mom was doing it.

Victor (to Zoe): Um, they had a disagreement about who should take the assignment. It sounds like Yoyo may have banged up a couple of Mom's ribs. She's going to be in a terrifying mood for a few days, I'm afraid. I'm going to Britannia with Yoyo.

Zoe (to Victor): … Oh. That's stupidly dangerous. Why are you going? Mom & Dad aren't going to let you go, you know?

Victor (to Zoe): I'm a skipper & I know how to fight. I've been doing it my whole life. You got to admit that makes me pretty good fucking backup. And it's either I let our mom do this alone, or the girl I love.

Zoe (to Victor): You can't go! I just got a family… and you're my big brother... This fucking sucks.

Victor (to Zoe): If the truth is to be told, I don't really want to go; it's an assassination, I'm not keen on the idea of killing anyone. Even Director Carver, but he has to be stopped.

Zoe (to Victor): Well, talk them out of it. Tell them to say no & have them send someone else… I have a bad feeling about this whole thing.

Victor (to Zoe): I'm pretty sure Dad's already done that. He's not happy about this whole thing... Don't worry. We'll come back. I promise.

Zoe (to Victor): You better.

Victor (to Zoe): Take care of everyone while we're gone, OK?

Zoe (to Victor): I will. And, please, please be careful. I don't want to be an only child.

Victor (to Zoe): No, you don't. Trust. me. It's much better with siblings. Give me a hug, little sister. We'll be careful.

Zoe (to Victor): Today can seriously die in a fire.

Victor (to Zoe): It can *totes* die in a fire.

Meanwhile:

Nathaniel: Jesus... This is just what I need today. (to Colin) Hi.

Colin (to Nathaniel): Hey Nate, what's up?

Nathaniel (to Colin): It's been a really shitty day, and I'm having a hell of a fucking time trying to get anyone to buy me some damn cigarettes. And you! I thought you liked her! You're really gonna let 5 feet 2 inches of crazy mom shit scare you off? Christ! She really liked you, you know that? If you decided you weren't fucking interested, you coulda at least had the balls to tell her to her goddamned face.

Colin (to Nathaniel): Nate… I have no idea what you are talking about… I don't smoke… And, I haven't been scared off about anything. If you're talking about Zoe. I do like her. Quite a bit. Has she been trying to get a hold of me? I left my phone at the coffeehouse & the battery is dead. I couldn't remember her number off the top of my head & I thought it would be rude to just show up.

Nathaniel (to Colin): What? Oh. Oh shit... I--I'm sorry. I swear I'm not usually this fucking crazy... Uh... Not lately, anyway. Christ. Wow, uh... I really don't know what to say now.

Colin (to Nathaniel): … It's okay. I'd probably act the same way if someone was interested in a female friend of mine & it looked like they were ignoring them. Did Zoe really think I was avoiding her?

Nathaniel (to Colin): Yeah. She thought Aunt Poppy scared you off.

Colin (to Nathaniel): Could you please tell her that's not the case? I'll call her as soon as my phone is charged up.

Nathaniel (to Colin): Yeah. Of course. Um, you won't let her stupid dick-ass cousin scare you off either, will you?

Colin (to Nathaniel): Not likely… I've known Mars for years. :-P Speaking of which, doesn't she smoke?

Nathaniel (to Colin): Shit! Yeah. Of course she does. So does fucking Aiden. Christ I'm a moron... Hey, thanks! You're a smart fucking man. I'll tell Zoe what you said.

Colin (to Nathaniel): Thanks! I gotta get home before my dads kill me.

A short time later:

Marlena (to Aiden): Hey, English muffin, get off the fucking floor. You're totally blocking the doorway. Get your ass on the couch.

Nathaniel (to Marlena): Hey. I'm not waking you up, am I?

Marlena (to Nathaniel): Thank the fucking Christ that you're here… You can help me deal with the drunk englishman on my floor.

Nathaniel (to Marlena): Oh. Shit. (to Aiden) Aiden? Can you stand up?

Aiden (to Marlena): You, Miss, are surprisingly unpleasant. (to Nathaniel) Yes... I'm fine... Okay, sort of fine...

Marlena (to Aiden): Boo fucking hoo. Get on the couch.

Nathaniel (to Aiden): You're sort of fucking wasted. Jesus! Easy.

Marlena (to Nathaniel): He's been practically comatose for the past few hours just sitting on the floor.

Aiden (to Nathaniel): I-- I told Persephone that the wedding was off... To say she didn't handle it very well would be an understatement to wells.

Nathaniel (to Aiden & Marlena): Oh. Shit. (to Aiden) Come on, Aiden. We're headed to the couch. It's like 200 more feet. I need you to help me a little bit.

Aiden (to Nathaniel): I can make it. I'm fine... What are gahoolies? Because Seph said something about ripping them off & that doesn't sound nice.

Nathaniel (to Marlena) Um could you get me the biggest fucking glass of water you can pour, a couple of painkillers & something with caffeine in it? Please? (to Aiden) Really? Cause you don't look real fine to me. You are gonna have one hell of a hangover tomorrow. I have no idea what the fuck gahoolies are, but I can take an educated guess.

Marlena (to Nathaniel): Yeah, of course. Be right back.

Aiden (to Nathaniel): I'm sorry to be in such a state... I was naive to think it was going to go any other way. I was honestly hoping she would, I don't know, tell me that my concerns were unfounded & that she felt the same way... Instead, she yelled at me about how I ruined everything.

Nathaniel (to Aiden): Jesus... That fucking sucks. I'm sorry.

Marlena (to Nathaniel & Aiden): Here's water, painkillers & coffee.

Aiden (to Marlena): Thank you.

Nathaniel (to Marlena): Thanks, Mars.

Marlena (to Nathaniel & Aiden): You're welcome. (to Nathaniel) Here, I thought you might be needing these, Nate.

Nathaniel (to Marlena): Sweet baby Jesus! You have no idea. Thank you! You're a fucking saint!

Marlena (to Nathaniel): Yeah, yeah. Don't fucking spread it around too much otherwise everyone will be wanting to wash my feet or something. Can you handle Aiden on your own? I've got some homework to finish up.

Nathaniel (to Marlena): "Those who have had a bath need only to wash their feet; their whole body is clean. And you are clean..." What? Poppa's a preacher man. I can handle Aiden. I've dealt with messier. Hell, I've *been* messier. I'll get some water in him, and he should be alright.

Marlena (to Nathaniel): Great! If you need help, give a holler. (to Aiden) If you feel sick, there's a bucket next to the couch. Please use it.

Aiden (to Marlena): Yes, buckets are useful.

Nathaniel (to Marlena): Will do. (to Aiden) How you holding up?

Aiden (to Nathaniel): I feel like someone ripped my heart out through my spleen... I didn't mean to drink this much. How are you? Feeling any better than you were this morning?

Nathaniel (to Aiden): Physically, yeah...

Aiden (to Nathaniel): Oh... that doesn't sound good.

Nathaniel (to Aiden): It's not. The queen, or whoever, asked my aunt to fucking kill Director Carver cause she used to be some kinda hit man... Uh, hit woman, I guess.

Aiden (to Nathaniel): Yes, the Magpie... but she's been retired for 18 years or so. That doesn't make any sense. There are plenty of other agents capable of that type of thing.

Nathaniel (to Aiden): Yeah, well, tell that to her boss. As you can imagine, no one is real fucking happy about it. Jesus. I didn't realize how fucking exhausted I was until I sat down next to you...

Aiden (to Nathaniel): Heh... We seem to be making a habit of finding the most unaccommodating spots to cuddle up on.

Nathaniel (to Aiden): Heh. Yeah... I should head home. You OK?

Aiden (to Nathaniel): I'll be fine. Will you be okay?

Nathaniel (to Aiden): Yeah, I... Jesus. I don't fucking know. I hope so.

Aiden (to Nathaniel): Come here, Nate... It'll be okay. Poppy is an amazing woman & very good at what she does. There's nothing to worry about.

Nathaniel (to Aiden): Yeah. Thanks. You, uh, you're not making it any easier for me to go, you know...

Aiden (to Nathaniel): Heh... Think of it as mild revenge for you doing the same to me yesterday. :-P

Nathaniel (to Aiden): Yeah, well, yesterday you didn't leave, did you? I've gotta... You should REALLY stop that. You're drunk, and I've... Fuck it. I, uh, I think I could stay another couple of minutes.

Aiden (to Nathaniel): ... I'd hate for you to do something you don't-- You're a bit evil, you know that?

Nathaniel (to Aiden): You complaining?

Aiden (to Nathaniel): Not at all... Just really wishing for more privacy.

Nathaniel (to Aiden): Yeah. Me too... You're probably too drunk to go wandering off anywhere, huh? I'm gonna head home. Night.

Aiden (to Nathaniel): Ummm, Yoyo's not here... No, no... You should go home. I don't want you to get in trouble. Good night.

Nathaniel (to Aiden): ... You know what? Fuck it. Come on...

Aiden (to Nathaniel): Heh. You're sexy when you're all take charge.

Back in the Future, Day 33

At Eep & Mouse's house, West Piedmont:

Mouse (to Yukiko): Yoyo, what are you doing awake so early? Trouble sleeping?

Yukiko (to Mouse): Huh? Sorry, Miss Emma, I was just sitting here thinking.

Mouse (to Yukiko): It must have been something good, your tea has gone cold in your hands. Would you like some more or maybe, coffee?

Yukiko (to Mouse): Coffee would be fine. Thank you.

Mouse (to Yukiko): Here, you go. Care to talk about it?

Yukiko (to Mouse): Thank you for the offer. I'm not sure this is anything you can help me with. Would you please tell Mars that I've gone over to the apartment to sign the paperwork? I've got a couple errands to run, so I might not be back for a little while.

Mouse (to Yukiko): Oh yes, of course. Are you sure you're okay, Yoyo?

Yukiko (to Mouse): Yes, I'm fine. Thank you again for the coffee. I'll throw it in a travel mug & bring it with me. Bye, Miss Emma.

Mouse: I swear there's something going on with that girl... I hope it's nothing too serious. (to Yukiko) Bye, Yoyo.

An hour or so later:

Marlena (to Mouse): Is there any coffee?

Mouse (to Marlena): Yes. Don't you look cheery this morning. Did you fall asleep in your clothes again? Oh, Mars, you've got paint in your hair.

Marlena (to Mouse): Yeah, that happens when you fall asleep painting. Just let me get caffeinated & then you can bitch at me all you want.

Mouse (to Marlena): I'm not bitching at you. Before I forget, Yoyo went to go sign the paperwork for the apartment & run some errands. She'll be back later... And, I will now leave you to your grumpiness. I've got to run to work. Love ya, see ya, bye.

Marlena (to Mouse): Thanks. I love you too, Mom.

Eep (to Marlena): What crawled up your ass and died this morning?

Marlena (to Eep): It's just too fucking early for Mom to be griping at me about my appearance. And, I fell asleep on the floor while I was painting.

Eep (to Marlena): Heh. So what you're telling me is that you're sore and dangerously cranky because you slept like shit. Got it.

Marlena (to Eep): Yeah, basically... Also, I'm a little disappointed that Yoyo went without me. I mean, I know it's her apartment & all, but I was kinda looking forward to going over there with her. It's just weird. Usually, she'd wait for me.

Eep (to Marlena): Maybe she knew you'd bite her head off if she tried to wake you. :-p If you wanna go, call her.

Marlena (to Eep): You don't think it's being a little clingy? I mean, what if she asked Victor to go with her. I don't want to step on their toes. I'm trying not to be all jealous, but I kinda miss when it was just me & Yoyo... God, I'm being fucking whiny.

Eep (to Marlena): You're not being fucking whiny. You're being fucking normal. You're Yoyo's best friend, Monkey. You can ask her to spend time with you and only you once in awhile. It doesn't make you a clingy weirdo. Insisting you go on dates with her and Victor, THAT would make you a clingy weirdo.

Marlena (to Eep): God, I DO NOT want to go on dates with the two of them. It's bad enough watching them be all smooshie face when they're not on a date. I can only imagine what them being on a date is like... Actually, I would really rather not.

Eep (to Marlena): Heh. Hate to break it to you, Mars, but you're gonna be living with Yoyo, so you're gonna be seeing a LOT of smooshie face.

Marlena (to Eep): Shit... Do you think it's too late to change my mind about living with her? I'm just kidding... mostly.

Eep (to Marlena): Do I even wanna know what the fuck smooshie face is?

Marlena (to Eep): Probably not... Though, you & mom do it too, you know.

Eep (to Marlena): God fucking forbid your mother and I act affectionate towards each other. Or YOU. The world will surely fucking end.

Marlena (to Eep): Yeah well, I always assumed it was a sign of the apocalypse. :-P I'll call Yoyo & see if she'll wait for me.

Eep (to Marlena): Good. I'll get out of your paint-streaked hair.

Marlena: That's weird... (to Eep) Ummm, Dad? Yoyo's phone says she's out of network range.

Eep (to Marlena): Calm down. It might be an error with the network. I have to pick up something at my office. We can stop by the apartments, and we'll see if she's there, OK?

Marlena (to Eep): Okay. Thanks, Dad.

Eep (to Marlena): It's no problem. Go change into something that doesn't look like you slept in it on the floor, will you? I'm gonna call your aunt and uncle and ask them to give us a call if Yoyo shows up over there, OK?

Marlena (to Eep): I see how it is... Embarrassed to be seen with your own daughter. Don't make that face! I'm going... Sheesh.

Eep (to Marlena): I am when she looks like that! (to Poppy & Vincent) Hey. I don't suppose Yoyo is over at your house, is she?

Marlena (to Eep): Okay, okay. I'll be back in a minute.

Poppy (to Eep): Not that I'm aware of, honey... But, I've only been up for a few minutes. Let me check Victor's room... No, we are very much Yoyo free. What's going on?

Eep (to Poppy): Probably nothing. Mars tried to give her a call and the message said her phone was outa range. She's just a little freaked, because Yoyo got grabbed before. We're going to the college to look for her. If she turns up, ask her to give Mars a call.

Poppy (to Eep): Of course, honey. I'm sure she'll turn up & we will have worried for nothing.

A couple hours later:

Poppy (to Nathaniel): Nate honey, sorry to wake you... But, did anything odd happen yesterday during your little group outing?

Nathaniel (to Poppy): Huh? Sorry ... what?

Poppy (to Nathaniel): Did anything strange happen yesterday, honey?

Nathaniel (to Poppy): You're gonna have to be more specific than that. The whole thing was kinda strange...

Poppy (to Nathaniel): Well, specifically with Yoyo, honey? It's probably nothing, but Eep called over wondering if she was here. He & Mars were having trouble reaching her.

Nathaniel (to Poppy): Oh. Uh, yeah, actually. Some drunk guy stumbled out of a pub and she had like down and unconscious before I could blink ...

Poppy (to Nathaniel): That is interesting, honey... I never showed her how to do anything like that. Was there anything else that caught your attention?

Nathaniel (to Poppy): Yeah. It, uh, it struck me as really weird, you know? She and Aiden were also acting really weird around each other.

Poppy (to Nathaniel): I'm sorry to hit you with all these questions, honey. I just suddenly feel like I'm missing something important. And, frankly, I'm not used to feeling like that.

Meanwhile, in New London, Britannia:

Aiden (to Yukiko): Why on earth did you set up this meeting, Miss Kobayashi? You know it's not safe for you & I to be seen together.

Yukiko (to Aiden): I know but I think Nate is a little suspicious of me after yesterday. I don't know how much longer I can keep this routine up.

Aiden (to Yukiko): I know it's difficult, Miss Kobayashi, but the Empress needs to know exactly what Miss Meriwether & family have been doing. The ISS taught her a lot of very valuable skills & she seems more willing to use them in her husband's questionable enterprises than for the empire. Just continue to fulfill your duty & we'll continue to pay for your education on the other side.

Yukiko (to Aiden): Yes sir.... I just hate lying to them.

Aiden (to Yukiko): The empress is exceedingly grateful for all that you're sacrificing. She will not forget what you've done for her. And when the time comes, I'm sure she will be quite generous. Now, I must get back to the Inn. Do not contact me again until you have something. Alright?

Yukiko (to Aiden): Yes sir.

A couple hours later, at Mouse & Eep's house, West Piedmont:

Marlena (to Yukiko): Fucking hell, Yoyo! Where the fuck have you been? I've been worried sick about you? First, your phone doesn't work when I called. Then, when we went by the apartment complex office & no one had seen you. I was fucking frantic.

Yukiko (to Marlena): Mars, calm down. I went and ran some errands first. I just got done at the apartment. See, here's the lease, all signed. I don't know why my phone wasn't working. I'm sorry I worried you. I'm okay... You really went looking for me?

Marlena (to Yukiko): Well, yeah, you're my best friend... Not to mention, the fact that you've been grabbed before. So, I was a little paranoid and I may have... overreacted.

Yukiko (to Marlena): It's okay. I am sorry that I worried you. I should probably find out what's wrong with my phone.

Marlena (to Yukiko): Yeah... I should probably call Aunt Poppy & let her know you're okay & it was just me being paranoid. (to Poppy) Hey Aunt Poppy, I just wanted to let you know it was a false alarm. Yoyo's made it safely home. Totally my fault. Sorry if I got everyone worried for no reason.

Poppy (to Marlena): It's alright, honey. I'm just glad she's okay. I'll tell the calvary to stand down. :-P

Marlena (to Poppy): Heh. Thanks.

An hour or so later, at Poppy & Vincent's apartment, West Piedmont:

Zoe (to Poppy): Um, Poppy? Vincent wanted me to ask you how you felt about chinese food for dinner?

Poppy (to Zoe): ... Oh, I'm sorry, honey, I was just sitting out here thinking. Chinese sounds perfect as long as they deliver. Make sure he orders it from Hong Kong Garden. They have the cutest delivery boys.

Zoe (to Poppy): Ok... Is everything alright?

Poppy (to Zoe): Hmmmm? ... Yes, honey, everything is fine & dandy. I'll be inside in just a minute.

Zoe (to Poppy): Alright... I'll let Vincent know.

Poppy (to Percy): Percy? Do you read me? Pick up the damn communicator & stop flirting with that boy!

Percy (to Poppy): How on earth did you know I was flirting with a boy?

Poppy (to Percy): Because, you're ALWAYS flirting with a boy... Look, I need you to do something for me.

Percy (to Poppy): That's just not true, honey... Sometimes, I flirt with girls.

Poppy (to Percy): Just shut up & listen to me. I need you to find out what the ISS has on the Kobayashi family. And I mean everything. Leave no stone unturned and DO NOT let Aiden know you're doing it. Okay?

Percy (to Poppy): Okay, honey... Is there something wrong? I thought Aiden was a friend.

Poppy (to Percy): Well, let's just assume for the time being that he isn't. Be as fast as you can, but be very careful. No one should know what you're doing.

Percy (to Poppy): Alright, honey, I'll let you know when I have something.

Poppy (to Percy): Thank you, Percy. (to Vincent, Nathaniel, Zoe & Victor) Sorry to keep you all waiting, sweeties. The food smells delicious.

Nathaniel (to Poppy): S'alright. Um, can I ask you something? Later?

Poppy (to Nathaniel): Of course, honey.

Zoe (to Nathaniel & Poppy): Heehee, I bet I know what it's about.

Nathaniel (to Zoe): No, you don't.

Poppy (to Zoe): Zoe sweetie, that is incredibly rude & uncalled for. You're a young lady not a child.

Zoe (to Poppy): Oh... (to Nathaniel) I'm sorry, Nate.

Nathaniel (to Zoe): It's fine.

Poppy (to Vincent): Husband o' mine, would you be terribly upset if I stepped outside with our nephew for a minute?

Vincent (to Poppy): Heh. Only if you're not gone too long, lover. Who knows what kind of trouble I will get into left to my own devices?

Poppy (to Victor): Yes, all on your own with your son and daughter. I think you'll be fine. (to Nathaniel) Come on, Nate. You look finished with your noodles. Besides, I'm sure you'd like to go outside & get some "fresh air". 

Vincent (to Poppy): Hee hee. They can't be trusted any more than I can. :-P

A moment later:

Nathaniel (to Poppy): Um, yeah. You don't mind if I grab a cigarette?

Poppy (to Nathaniel): I do mind, because it's a nasty habit. But I know it's a stress reliever for you, so have at it, honey.

Nathaniel (to Poppy): Uh, yeah. Thanks. It's about what you asked me earlier. About Aiden and Yoyo.

Poppy (to Nathaniel): What is it, honey?

Nathaniel (to Poppy): They only met the once, right? I mean, just that time when Aiden came here after CLANNG invaded your job's headquarters?

Poppy (to Nathaniel): I certainly thought that was the case, honey. Do you have a reason to think differently? It's okay, if it's just a feeling. Trust your gut, it's usually right.

Nathaniel (to Poppy): Yeah. That's what I thought too. It's just... The way they were acting, if I didn't know better, I'd swear that they'd had an affair or something. It's like... They were going out of their way not to interact or speak to each other. I don't know. I mean, I don't think for one second that's what happened... It just seemed off somehow. And Yoyo seemed really upset when she realized that I saw her knock out that drunk. I mean, I didn't freak out or anything… So why would she care that I saw? I'm sorry. I'm being paranoid and suspicious.

Poppy (to Nathaniel): No, you have very good instincts, Nate... The first day that Aiden arrived, did anything odd happen between him & Yoyo? I know a lot has happened since then, but I'm beginning to get a very bad feeling... and, I really hope I'm wrong. But, if you can remember anything that struck you as strange, it might help me put this puzzle together.

Nathaniel (to Poppy): I don't know. He knew an awful lot about her. He said she had a file that he had read, cause he had arrested her parents. He seemed surprised to see her there.

Poppy (to Nathaniel): Bloody hell! Did he, by any chance, use the phrase, "person of interest" to explain away why he had read her file?

Nathaniel (to Poppy): Oh. Um, yeah. I think so. He said that your work kept files on people they thought might be useful?

Poppy (to Nathaniel): Yes, they do... I'm a fucking idiot! Oh... She is very good. I actually fell for her simple, innocent act...Oh god, Victor. This is going to break his heart. We need to be absolutely sure before we tell him anything.

Nathaniel (to Poppy): What? Tell him what?

Poppy (to Nathaniel): Oh, sorry, honey. I think Yoyo is a spy of some sort. I'm not quite sure who she's working for, but that certainly explains a few things... Aiden is probably her contact... I've got Percy doing some checking on him & Yoyo.

Nathaniel (to Poppy): She's what? Oh my god. OH MY GOD. Oh... Oh Jesus. That... That can't be right, can it? I mean...

Poppy (to Nathaniel): I know, honey. I don't like it, either. But, it would explain why she's so proficient at the sword, and various other things. Because, she already knew how to do it. The question is, if she is a spy, what is her mission? And, does it concern us or are we just a coincidence? ... Personally, I'm leaning towards it being about us, but I tend to plan for the worse.

Nathaniel (to Poppy): Oh. Shit... Sorry, but I'm smoking another cigarette.

Poppy (to Nathaniel): Trust me, honey, I may go fix myself a drink after this... Please, don't tell Zoe unless you think she won't say anything to Victor. I hate keeping secrets from him, but I want to make sure we're right before we say anything... Just in case.

Nathaniel (to Poppy): No shit. I won't say anything to her. She'd probably go punch Yoyo in the head if she thought she was spying on you guys.

Poppy (to Nathaniel): Thank you, honey... Now, I'm going to fix myself a stiff drink. Try not to smoke the whole pack.

Nathaniel (to Poppy): Heh. Yeah. No promises.

A moment later:

Poppy (to Vincent, Victor & Zoe): What on earth are you three up to in here?

Vincent (to Poppy): Nothing at all, hun. (to Victor & Zoe) Isn't that right, children?

Zoe (to Poppy, Vincent & Victor): Yes, clearly.

Victor (to Poppy): Dad was showing Zoe how to do a backhand twirl with a butterfly knife.

Zoe (to Victor): Tattletale.

Victor (to Zoe): Trust me. You can't lie to Mom. I don't know why Dad tried.

Vincent (to Zoe & Victor): Hee hee. I'm a optimist.

Poppy (to Vincent, Victor & Zoe): It's alright, sweeties. Just be careful... I'm going to get myself something to drink.

Vincent (to Poppy): Wait up, lover. Let me make you something. (to Victor & Zoe) Don't lose any fingers kids.

Victor (to Vincent): Yes, sir. (to Zoe) I wonder what's going on?

Zoe (to Victor): I was just going to ask you the same thing. Maybe, it has to do with whatever Nate talked to Poppy about... She's got a real serious face on.

Victor (to Zoe): Yeah. She's upset about something... You can go check on him if you want to. I promise I won't cut off any digits.

Zoe (to Victor): Okay... I'll tell you if I find out anything. (to Nathaniel) Hey, what's going on out here? Are you trying to smoke all of the cigarettes?

Nathaniel (to Zoe): Yes. I've purchased stock in Camel cigarettes, and I want to single handily make sure they stay in business.

Zoe (to Nathaniel): Well, as long as you've got a plan, I suppose... What's going on? Poppy came inside all serious faced & didn't even yell at us for playing with knives & you're out here smoking everything. Are you dying? You're not dying, are you? Please, don't be dying. That would be awful. I would cry.

Nathaniel (to Zoe): I'm not dying. Calm down. You can stow your tears. I was just talking to Aunt Poppy about something that was bugging me. Earlier, what did you *think*I was going to ask her?

Zoe (to Nathaniel): Oh, I thought you were going to ask her about Oliver asking you out.

Nathaniel (to Zoe): Oh Jesus... With all this drama, I forgot about that. Fuck. I'm gonna see him tomorrow.

Zoe (to Nathaniel): Are you going to say yes?

Nathaniel (to Zoe): I don't know. I probably shouldn't. I mean, I don't think I should. Do you think I should?

Zoe (to Nathaniel): Heh. Personally, I'd do it. Because, a date with a cute robot is better than no date, at all. But, I'm probably the wrong person to ask.

Nathaniel (to Zoe): Yeah... maybe. Why do you think you're the worst person to ask? It's not like I've got a whole lot of experience either.

Zoe (to Nathaniel): Gimme a break. You've, at least, actually dated someone. I have memories of dating & everything that goes with it, but I have never actually done it. And, I have a tendency to be attracted to people who have no interest in me. So, you know...

Nathaniel (to Zoe): It's not like I've done a whole hell of a lot better. I've had one boyfriend who dumped me. As far as I can tell, we're both kinda at a loss. Maybe I'll say yes. I don't know...

Zoe (to Nathaniel): Hey, if Victor moves in with Yoyo, do you think you might stay here longer?

Nathaniel (to Zoe): ... I thought he decided he wasn't going to move in with her. Do you think he actually wants to?

Zoe (to Nathaniel): I don't know what he's decided. Yesterday, he said he wanted to, but he had some reservations. He was worried that he might get twitchy about being in one place, putting her in danger or being dull... you know, the usual excuses. Heh... at least, I like to think they're the normal excuses. I'm sure other people don't worry about danger as much as we do.

Nathaniel (to Zoe): Yeah. Probably not. Makes sense that he's got concerns. I mean, he's only 16, and he's only ever lived with his parents.

Zoe (to Nathaniel): Besides, I don't think he's told Poppy & Vincent about her offer. They may not go for it... But, I know they'd like him to go to college over here & that might be the encouragement he needs. Who knows?

Nathaniel (to Zoe): Yeah, well, if you ask me, he probably ought to live on his own for a little bit before he moves in with anyone. You can't use someone else to try to solve or run away from your problems. I don't think it works.

Zoe (to Nathaniel): Oh... Are you feeling okay? I was expecting you to say something about how if they move out we won't have to watch them suck face or be so cute with each other anymore... Instead, you say all that.

Nathaniel (to Zoe): Sorry. I was probably thinking about Timothy... Ignore me. Don't you dare tell Victor what I said. He might start thinking I like him or something.

Zoe (to Nathaniel): Yes, that would be horrible... Actually, I'm surprised Yoyo isn't here. Before she left last night, it sounded like he wanted to talk to her today. Heh. Maybe he got cold feet & has simply decided to pretend it's not happening.

Nathaniel (to Zoe): Heh. Probably. So, not to change the subject, but I'm changing the subject. You still think I should say yes to Oliver?

Zoe (to Nathaniel): Yeah, why not? I mean, it's just a date. He didn't ask you to marry him or anything. And, you might have fun or you might have a terrible time. But, you'll never know unless you do it... Besides, I know of, at least, two people who dated an automaton… and one of them may possibly kill me if I told you who it was.

Nathaniel (to Zoe): Someone we know dated an automaton? Who? Dammit, you HAVE to tell me now. Wait, did you say two? Who?

Zoe (to Nathaniel): Well, it was the same automaton, sort of... Percy dated Eep's roommate Wanda for awhile... and before that he dated Vincent. But, Percy was a girl when he dated Vincent. Trust me, it was very confusing sounding, if you ask me. Mars told me about it when I was asking her questions about Percy.

Nathaniel (to Zoe): I can't believe Uncle Vincent dated Percy! He's so... He unnerves the shit out of me. He seems like such an aggressive pervert... Wait. Maybe that *does* make sense.

Zoe (to Nathaniel): Yeah, it's probably a good thing, he doesn't look like Pop-- a girl, anymore.

Nathaniel (to Zoe): Wait. He doesn't look like who? What were you gonna say? Do not make me put you in a headlock, shortie. I will do it!

Zoe (to Nathaniel): Okay, okay... No need to threaten me! When he was a girl, Percy looked exactly like Poppy... Well, he was Poppy. No one knew she was an automaton until after they broke up... This was ages ago before Victor was born.

Nathaniel (to Zoe): So Percy used to be based on Aunt Poppy? That is so fucking bizarre. They are *nothing* alike. God this family is so weird.

Zoe (to Nathaniel): You'd rather a boring, normal family?

Nathaniel (to Zoe): No, thanks. Had one of those. It didn't go over so well. ;-)

Zoe (to Nathaniel): That's what I thought... I'm going back inside. Hopefully, Victor hasn't cut off his fingers.

Nathaniel (to Zoe): Heh. Alright. I'll see you later. I need to think about some shit. Night.

Zoe (to Nathaniel): Good night.

A moment later:

Zoe (to Victor): Are you missing any fingers, yet?

Victor (to Zoe): I have all twelve of my fingers.

Zoe (to Victor): Oh... Are we supposed to have twelve? I seem to be missing two... Oh god, I'm a freak.

Victor (to Zoe): You don't have twelve fingers? That's it! You're out of the family! So what was up with Gloomy McSmokerson?

Zoe (to Victor): Oh... Oliver asked him out the other day & he's trying to decide what to do about it. He tried to play it off like there was something else, but I knew that's what was bugging him.

Victor (to Zoe): Why is it bothering him? I thought he liked Oliver.

Zoe (to Victor): He does... But, I told him that Oliver was an automaton & he's not really sure he should be dating anyone right now. I mean, he just got dumped. If he's not ready to date, he probably shouldn't right? I mean, how did you know you were ready to date when you met Yoyo?

Victor (to Zoe): That's true, and he's all weird around other guys... I didn't really *know* I was ready to date Yoyo, she was interesting, smart, and really, really cute, so when she asked me out, I said yes. Honestly, I was scared to death.

Zoe (to Victor): Heehee... I can't imagine you being scared of anything. Especially, Yoyo.

Victor (to Zoe): Bullshit! I get scared of plenty of stuff, I'm just better at hiding it than most. When Hiiri last made an appearance, I thought my heart was going to stop. And the idea of going on a date with a smart, capable girl, who didn't fall for any of my crap *without* compromising me or my parents, AND making her like me was almost worse.

Zoe (to Victor): Heh... You really like her, huh? That was a joke... I know you do. Have you decided what you're going to do about the apartment?

Victor (to Zoe): Oh. Heh. Sorry. I must have pulled quite a face. I do really like her, and I think I would very much like to live with her. But... I don't know. I think I'm just scared. Like an idiot. Mostly because I would have to talk to my parents about it. I'm not sure Mom will take that news very well.

Zoe (to Victor): Well then, just tell her you're not ready & then, ask your dad if you can stay over there occasionally. :-P

Victor (to Zoe): Yes. That won't make it any less awkward. I'll talk to them tomorrow. Of course, there's also a chance she's changed her mind. You don't think she's changed her mind, do you?

Zoe (to Victor): Look, Yoyo's from Britannia, and most girls there her own age are getting married & taking on adult lives... But, we're on this side & well, we've got the opportunity to be kids a little longer. No one can fault you, if you're not ready... Why would you think she changed her mind?

Victor (to Zoe): Because I didn't say yes immediately. I suppose I'm worried she'll have had time to reconsider or will be mad at me.

Zoe (to Victor): Maybe, you should talk to her, you big dumbie.

Victor (to Zoe): Heh. I suppose I should. Thanks.

A short time later:

Yukiko: Deep breaths... You can do this. You just have to end it. I mean, you like him, but you're compromised & you can't be objective... the longer you date him, the messier it's going to become. Come on, Kobayashi, put on your grown-up pants & just do it. (to Victor) Victor, are you still awake?

Victor (to Yukiko): Hey! I am. Heh. I slept until 3 in the afternoon earlier, and I'm a bit wired. I was just thinking about you.

Yukiko (to Victor): Oh... I was thinking about you, too... I don't know how to do this... I'm really sorry but, I don't think we should see each other, anymore. I know I should be doing this face to face, but I'm a coward. If I had to look you in the eyes, I wouldn't be able to do it.

Victor (to Yukiko): I... You--you what? But... Why? What happened? Did I do something? Is it because of the apartment? I just...

Yukiko (to Victor): No, it's not the apartment and it's not you... It's me... I don't deserve you. I'm a liar & a fraud.

Victor (to Yukiko): You're not making any sense... What do you mean you "don't deserve" me. That makes no fucking sense. I... I love you, Yoyo.

Yukiko (to Victor): I know... I'm sorry. Just stay as far away from me as you can... It's for your own good. I don't want to do this, but I have to.

Victor (to Yukiko): Yoyo, please... Just tell me what's going on. I... I thought you loved me.

Yukiko (to Victor): I do... That's the problem.

Victor (to Yukiko): I don't understand.

Yukiko (to Victor): Victor, I'm sorry. I wish I could explain but I can't. This isn't easy for me... I'm going back to the other side & I'm taking my uncle's proposal. I'll be on an airship to Shanghai by tomorrow afternoon… This is for the best.

Victor (to Yukiko): What?! You CAN'T! Yoyo! If you don't want to date me anymore that's--that's one thing but you'll be MISERABLE if you do that! Please don't do this...

Yukiko (to Victor): I deserve to be miserable... You're going to find out everything & you're going to hate me. Just please try to remember that I really did love you and that I'm very sorry.

Victor (to Yukiko): Why don't you let me fucking decide that? I'm coming over there. Don't tell me otherwise. If you don't want to see me anymore and you want to go back to your family, *fine*. I will respect your stupid ass decision, but I'm not doing this over the phone, and I'm sure as hell not letting you tell me how I'm going to feel about this!

Yukiko (to Victor): Damn it, Victor! I'm trying to save you!

Victor (to Yukiko): Oof... Good god. I think I'm still a little tired from the other day... If you want to "save" me, then this is the worst possible way to do it. Come on. Let's go someplace we won't wake up my Aunt and Uncle, and you can tell me what's going on, and THEN fucking dump me.

A few moments later:

Yukiko (to Victor): Oh, Victor... I'm sorry. I don't know where to begin... I work for the Imperial Guard, as part of the Corsair Division. My mission is to find capable skilled members of the empire & either recruit them or dispose of them. Your mother has been on the list for quite some time, but because of her ties to the ISS & piracy, her motives were in question. I was sent over here to discover where her loyalties lie. I discovered that I liked it over here & I made friends with Mars... I didn't know she was related to you all, not until she introduced me to you. At first, I thought it was just a happy coincidence. I could get firsthand intel for her highness... but, then it got complicated... So, I'm turning down my commission & I'm leaving.

Victor (to Yukiko): God damn... You're really fucking good. Did you tell them about me? Or that Zoe, Nate and my parents are skippers?

Yukiko (to Victor): No, I didn't tell anyone.

Victor (to Yukiko): Thank you. If they knew what any of us could do... What did you do to piss off one of your higher ups? It must have been something mighty impressive. My dad started off as a marauder, but he's got proper papers and been running legit cargo for years. The only thing he does that's technically illegal is run supplies into No Trade Zones like the Tombs, but the empire doesn't REALLY care about that. They never have. Plus, the Empress LOVES Dad. It's slightly disturbing. And if they don't know we're all skippers... They aren't worried about my mom's loyalty. My mom is the Magpie, Yoyo. She's retired now, of course, but if they sent you after her, it wasn't to take my mom out. Or even to spy on her.

Yukiko (to Victor): ... It was a deal my father worked out with the Empress to keep me away from... my mother. It was designed to look like a proper mission, but if scrutinized too closely it would fall apart. Especially, if anyone actually knew about your parent's background. With all of the upheaval in the empire lately, Parliament & CLANNG have been looking at everything with a fine tooth comb. It's just a matter of time before they figure out that I'm over here under false pretenses… In a year, I'll be eighteen & legally an adult, my mom won't be able to keep me at home. Father wanted me to have my own life, not an extension of her's, she's been training me to be a Kuniochi like her, ever since I could hold chopsticks.

Victor (to Yukiko): Why didn't you just *tell* us all this?

Yukiko (to Victor): I was going to, but then that little creepy girl grabbed me & Daisuke got hurt... I thought it would be best not to break my cover and then, it just kept not being the right time. I was scared of what you would think... Yesterday, when Nate saw me knock that guy unconscious. I knew it wasn't long before your mom went digging and found the mission report. I know she sent Percy to look into my family, there are alerts set up on my files. That's when I decided to make my travel arrangements with my uncle.

Victor (to Yukiko): You can't do that, Yoyo. PLEASE don't do that. You're only a couple of months away from your birthday. Please... If you need to be scarce for a couple of months, we can... we'll find a way. I don't... No. That's not true. I care if you don't want to be with me. Intensely. But I can't stand the idea of you being sold off.

Yukiko (to Victor): Victor, I was going to my uncle's to protect you. If Director Carver gets a hold of my mission files, he'll know exactly where to find you & he knows you're a skipper. If I step down, my current active mission gets shredded. And, if I'm gone, I'm not a potential hostage... I thought I was leaving to protect you.

Victor (to Yukiko): Carver already knows where to find me! Why do you think that inhibitor is set up near the Inn? Just... Please don't go. Not just yet. Please? Let's try to think of something first and then... If we can't, and you still want to go... I will never, ever be able to live with the idea of you selling yourself to some horrorshow of a human to "protect" me.

Yukiko (to Victor): Alright... you win. I won't go. I'll contact my uncle in the morning & tell him I had a change of heart.

Victor (to Yukiko): Thank you. We'll figure this out tomorrow. I'm... God. I'm exhausted. I'm sorry. I'm going to go home. We'll figure this out tomorrow.

Yukiko (to Victor): Oh... okay... I do love you, Victor.

Victor (to Yukiko): I--I know. I... I'll see you tomorrow.