A Strange Old World, Day 1

At CLANNG Headquarters; New London, Britannia:

Nathaniel: What the fuck was THAT? Jesus Christ!

At Aiden's house; New London, Britannia:

Zoe: OW! What the fuck was that!?! ... Nate, are you okay? Nate? Where the heck are you?

Aiden (to Zoe): Miss? I don't know who you are or what you think you're doing here, but you have made a very big tactical mistake. My house is not so easily robbed. (to Mrs. Esterly) Mrs. Esterly? Check her for weapons, if you please.

Zoe (to Aiden): Haha, very funny, Aiden. It's me, Zoe... You really need to practice your jokes more. 

Mrs. Esterly (to Aiden): Of course, Master Aiden. (to Zoe) (to Mrs. Esterly): Be a good girl. I wouldn't want to have to hurt you, dear.

Aiden (to Zoe): I don't really do jokes... How do you know who I am?

Zoe (to Mrs. Esterly): Really? I can't believe you're going along with this, Mrs. Esterly. Bad jokes don't seem your style. 

Mrs. Esterly (to Zoe): They aren't dear. And if you know us as you claim, you know jokes aren't Master Aiden's style at all. You need to start talking and quickly, I think.

Zoe (to Aiden & Mrs. Esterly): … I'm Zoe Meriwether, your boyfriend's cousin. He's been staying with you for the last couple months because Hiiri ruined your lives on the other side... Mrs. Esterly is a whiz in the kitchen & with questions. Any of this ring a bell?

Mrs. Esterly (to Zoe): No. It doesn't. You need to tell us why you're really here.

Aiden (to Zoe): Are you crying? (to Mrs. Esterly) Is she crying?

Zoe (to Mrs. Esterly & Aiden): Oh... Shit. She did it... She really fucking did it... Go ahead shoot me. What's the fucking point of anything? My parents are dead. Nate's gone to I don't know where. You're back to being all stodgy... I don't know where my brother is... I'm on my own.

Mrs. Esterly (to Aiden): Yes, dear. I believe that's what she's doing. (to Zoe) Come along into the kitchen, Zoe. Sit down. Good girl. No one is going to shoot you. (to Aiden) Master Aiden, please put your gun away and put the kettle on.

Aiden (to Mrs. Esterly): Yes, Mrs. Esterly.

Mrs. Esterly (to Zoe): Why don't you tell us exactly what's going on, dear? What happened to your parents?

Zoe (to Mrs. Esterly): I-- I think Hiiri killed them.

Aiden (to Zoe): Hiiri? As in the chief advisor to the director of CLANNG?

Zoe (to Aiden): ... Yes, I guess so.

Aiden (to Zoe & Mrs. Esterly): That's ridiculous. Ms. Meriwether & her husband died in an airship explosion over three years ago. It was ruled an accident.

Mrs. Esterly (to Zoe): Well that wouldn't really surprise me. They're a nasty sort. What do you mean you think your parents are dead?

Zoe (to Mrs. Esterly & Aiden): Well, if you & Aiden don't recognize me then it's already happened. Hiiri must have done it as I crossed over. That's why I'm not changed & I remember what it was supposed to be like... Oh my god! Victor!

Mrs. Esterly (to Zoe): Wait a moment, dear. You're not headed anywhere just yet. Not until Master Aiden and I understand. What did Hiiri do?

Zoe (to Mrs. Esterly & Aiden): ... Don't you get it!?! She went back in time & killed my parents, Vincent Potter & Poppy Meriwether.

Mrs. Esterly (to Zoe): Young lady, you sit your bottom down this instant. Now. You're quite upset, so I'll forgive you your tone, but, if this situation involves myself & Master Aiden as you say, then we need to understand. You will be calm.

Zoe (to Mrs. Esterly): I'm sorry... I just lost everything... I'm sorry.

Mrs. Esterly (to Zoe): Oh, sweetie. Have a biscuit. I understand. I very much do, but now is not the time for hysterics. Master Aiden is right, you know. Their deaths were ruled an accident three years ago. And more to the point, as far as I know, the Potters only had a son. What was his name, Master Aiden?

Aiden (to Mrs. Esterly & Zoe): That would be Victor Harrison Potter… Last I heard he was hanging about the Longfellow Inn doing odd jobs. But that was some time ago. He could be anywhere by now.

Zoe (to Mrs. Esterly & Aiden): I was adopted by them a year ago... I mean, I would have been.

Mrs. Esterly (to Zoe): You have to know this sounds all a bit far-fetched, dear. Isn't if far more likely you've had a shock of some kind, and you've concocted this whole elaborate story?

Zoe (to Mrs. Esterly & Aiden): ... Aiden had a younger brother named Theodore who was killed when he was eight. Aiden still blames himself. As does your father Lord Wilkes to some extent. You have an older brother Roland, who Mrs. Esterly thinks is an ass.

Aiden (to Zoe): How do you know that?

Mrs. Esterly (to Zoe & Aiden): Oh my...

Zoe (to Aiden & Mrs. Esterly): Because... Where I came from, you're dating my cousin, who tells me everything... Thank you for the tea & for not shooting me. But, I really need to find my brother & see if I can fix all this.

Aiden (to Zoe): ... Miss Zoe? If what you're saying is true. You're not going to be able to do this on your own.

Zoe (to Aiden): It seems I don't have much of a choice.

Mrs. Esterly (to Zoe): Don't be ridiculous, dear. If you know us, you know we're not about to let you go wandering off on your own. (to Aiden) Master Aiden, please take Zoe down to the Longfellow Inn. See if you can track down Victor. I'm going to go visit with an old friend. If Hiiri did indeed murder Poppy Meriwether, she'll want to know.

Aiden (to Mrs. Esterly): Of course, Mrs Esterly. (to Zoe) Come along, Miss Zoe.

Zoe (to Mrs. Esterly & Aiden): Oh, um, thank you.

Mrs. Esterly (to Zoe): Of course, dear. (to Aiden) Go ahead and get your coat, Master Aiden. I want to ask Zoe something in private.

Zoe (to Mrs. Esterly): I'm not crazy. Honest.

Mrs. Esterly (to Zoe): No, dear. You seem quite lucid. That's not what I was going to ask. What you knew about Master Aiden... You said you learned it from your cousin?

Zoe (to Mrs. Esterly): Yes, my cousin, Nate.

Mrs. Esterly (to Zoe): Nate, you say? Hee hee. Well, I can't say that's a surprise. Were they happy together?

Zoe (to Mrs. Esterly): Yes, I think so. They certainly seemed like it. They were always smiling and touching. Heh. They had even moved into together.

Mrs. Esterly (to Zoe): Had they? Good heavens. I can't imagine Master Aiden acting like that, which is a bloody shame. Shoo now. I won't keep you.

Zoe (to Mrs. Esterly): Thank you.

Meanwhile, at CLANNG Headquarters; New London, Britannia:

Hiiri: Where on earth has that boy gotten off to? He's going to be late for his debriefing with Carver & Parliament.

A few minutes later:

Hiiri (to Nathaniel): Nathaniel? Where the bloody hell have you been? Carver has been waiting for you.

Nathaniel (to Hiiri): I'm sorry, ma'am! I kinda passed out. I don't know what happened. I just woke up on the floor outside the armory. Director Carver isn't too angry, is he? Like, gut me in the board room, angry?

Hiiri (to Nathaniel): Not, if you hurry... you weren't gambling again, were you?

Nathaniel (to Hiiri): Heh. Not this week, ma'am. I haven't got anything left to gamble with right now, do I? I think I overdid it with the training last night. My damn head is killing me.

Hiiri (to Nathaniel): Get some aspirin into yourself & then get to Carver's office. I'll send up Starling to let him know you're on your way. How are we ever going to teach you the ropes if you keep missing meetings?

Nathaniel (to Hiiri): Yes, ma'am. I keep telling you I'm too dumb to get this shit. Goes right the hell over my head.

Hiiri (to Nathaniel): Yes... That country bumpkin act may work on other people, Nathaniel. But, you are sadly barking up the wrong tree.

Nathaniel (to Hiiri): ... Yes, ma'am. Let Director Carver know I'll be right there, and that I'm sorry he had to wait.

Hiiri (to Nathaniel): I will.

Nathaniel: Jesus... I am gonna fucking die in this place.

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

Aiden (to Zoe): I'll wait for you out here, Miss Zoe.

Zoe (to Aiden): Oh... okay. You sure you don't want to come in? I'm sure Perse-- won't know who you are-- nevermind.

A moment later, in the back garden:

Victor (to Persephone): Yeah? Is there something you need, or do you have something else gross that Uncle Bernard wants cleaned?

Persephone (to Victor): I think that's it... You should probably hose yourself off. You smell like a pig sty.

Zoe (to Victor): Oh my god! Victor, you're okay! I'm so glad to see you! (to Persephone) And, Persephone, you're here, too! I'm glad to see you, too.

Persephone (to Zoe): Do I know you?

Victor (to Zoe): Uhhh... (to Persephone) Hey! Don't look at me! I don't know her either. (to Zoe) I'm sorry, love. I don't quite remember your name. And you'll want to back up. I'm a bit on the foul side.

Persephone (to Zoe): If you're one of his girlfriends I'm sorry to say he never remembers any of your names. I hope he didn't tell you that you were special... Though, you don't look like his normal type.

Zoe (to Persephone): I'm not a bloody girlfriend! I'm his sister... Or at least, I used to be... I'm sorry. I don't know what I was expecting to happen here... I just wanted to see my big brother.

Persephone (to Zoe): HAHAHA! That's a new one on me.

Victor (to Zoe): I don't know what kind of scam you're trying to run here, but I don't have a sister. Plus, I hate to be the one to shatter your illusions, but lordship isn't all it's cracked up to be. Take a deep whiff if you don't believe me. I've been mucking out chicken coops all day, so I'm afraid that I don't have any grand inheritance to share with a "long lost little sister."

Zoe (to Victor & Persephone): I'm not after your inheritance, you big ninny! I'm here to stop Hiiri from killing our parents or at least, fix what she already did... You're supposed to be captaining an airship with your fiancee right now & Seph you were helping out at the inn while your mom was busy with the new baby... I know it sounds crazy, but it's true! I'm Zoe Meriwether, Mom & Dad adopted me a year ago... I was crossing over with our cousin when Hiiri changed the timeline.

Persephone (to Zoe & Victor): ... Wow. That's quite a story. Victor, did you get drunk and natter on again?

Victor (to Persephone & Zoe): ... Who can bloody well remember? You look SO familiar. Tell us the truth! How do I know you?

Zoe: ... God. I'm really going to regret this... Deep breath. (to Victor & Persephone) I'm one of your Aunt Emma's clones that Hiiri made I was considered defective so Maladori didn't bother to complete my maturation process. In this timeline, I could be anywhere... Still in the stasis pod in Siberia, working for Hiiri or dead, for all I know. Look, Hiiri killed ou-- your parents, I can't prove it, yet but it's true.

Victor (to Zoe & Persephone): ...I don't doubt for a second Hiiri killed my parents, but even if she did... What the fuck am I supposed to do about it?

Zoe (to Victor & Persephone): Fine. You know what!?! You stay here & keep wallowing & feeling sorry for yourself. I'm going to try & fix it with or without your help. I'll just do something stupid that's what we Potters are good at. Besides, if I fuck it up, it can't be any worse than it is now.

Persephone (to Zoe): Wait! You can't be serious... Grunt! (to Victor) She's going to get herself killed.

Victor (to Persephone): I know. I KNOW! (to Zoe) Wait a minute, will you? You can't go up against Hiiri. She has all of CLANNG AND half the bloody Empire in her pocket. What are you hoping to do?

Zoe (to Victor & Persephone): I don't know... I need to go back and stop her from killing our parents. I just don't know when she did. If she made it look like an accident, she could have set the bomb at anytime... You once went back and stopped Hiiri from killing Seph's parents, do you remember doing that?

Victor (to Zoe): I... I did WHAT?

Zoe (to Victor): ... Oh... Well, you were a different Victor then... You were following in dad's footsteps. Heh. you even had a spy for a girlfriend... God, everything is going to be different over here... Um, when was the last time you saw Mars?

Victor (to Zoe): ... Not since a little while after Mom and Dad died. Aunt Emma wanted me to live with her, but it was too bloody confusing. You really ARE from an alternate timeline aren't you? I haven't opened a portal in... That isn't how you got here, is it?!?

Zoe (to Victor): Yeah, I'm a skipper like you... Do you mean, to the inn or in this timeline? Cuz, I walked over with Aiden. He & Mrs. Esterly were nice enough to offer to help me find you.

Victor (to Zoe): ANYWHERE. Bloody hell! CLANNG tracks all portals opened within the confines of the Empire. Director Carver will be sending Hiiri's little "pet" over to ask questions soon enough. I should make myself scarce... Who's this Aiden who escorted you?

Zoe (to Victor): ... Oh, shit. No wonder Mrs. Esterly was so insistent about Aiden going with me. He's Lord Wilkes, the youngest. In my time, he was dating our cousin... who you probably haven't met yet. And, I should probably not tell you about, just to be on the safe side. He's out front. Or at least, he was. 

Victor (to Zoe): THAT Aiden? Ha! Now I know you're lying. Little Lord Wilkes is a few gears short of being an automaton. (to Persephone) I'm going and taking my "little sister" with me. Tell Uncle Bernard and Aunt Molly I'll be back in a couple of days when the coast is clear. Probably.

Persephone (to Victor): Heh. Okay... Don't get yourself into too much trouble. If Francesca comes by, what should I tell her?

Victor (to Persephone): Tell her the truth. I've run off for a few days with some other girl. ;-P

Persephone (to Victor): Heehee... I can't wait to see the look on her face. It's going to be so moo.

Zoe (to Victor): Um... Where are we going?

Victor (to Zoe): We're going to my mother's house in the Tombs. Now that CLANNG's "respectable" they don't bother with us riff raff as much.

Zoe (to Victor): Oh... (to Aiden) Thank you for the assistance, your lordship. You'll probably want to get back home.

Aiden (to Zoe): <yawn> Of course, Miss Zoe... I'm sure Mrs. Esterly would thrash me soundly if I did not tell you to check in with us in a few days.

Zoe (to Aiden): Oh, right... I will.

Victor (to Aiden): My apologies, Wilkes. We seem to be keeping you awake.

Aiden (to Victor & Zoe): I just got back from abroad. Good day to you both.

A moment later:

Zoe (to Victor): Gosh, I even miss our Aiden... He's stuffy but, not that stuffy... Shit! Colin! I almost forgot... This timeline sucks.

Victor (to Zoe): I refuse to believe there's a timeline in which Wilkes DOESN'T have a very large stick stuck up his arse. 

Zoe (to Victor): Heehee, oh don't worry, he did when I first met him.

Victor (to Zoe): He was the one who finalized the report that said my parents died in an accident. He told me this when he tried to tap me for the ISS. He advised me that I was holding onto a grudge for no reason, and needed to think of my future. Stuck up bastard.

Zoe (to Victor): ... Oh. I'm sorry. I didn't know. If it makes you feel better, I know all sorts of embarrassing things about him. :-\

Victor (to Zoe): Heh. The more you say shit like that, the more I think you've got to be running the greatest con I've ever seen. This way.

Zoe (to Victor): I wish I could prove to you that I'm telling the truth... I just want things back to normal. We were going to have a new baby brother... Who I guess won't exist now... Shit... I promised myself I wasn't going think about this stuff.

Victor (to Zoe): Are you seriously trying to sell me on the idea that my parents were gonna have another baby?

Zoe (to Victor): I'm not trying to sell you on anything... His name was going to be Lucas Potter. Mom & Dad were in discussion about the middle name. Mom had been teasing him about making it Walker. Heh. When I asked them to come up with a new name for me, you teased them about going for the sci-fi names.

Victor (to Zoe): ... I believe you. Which might make me a moron, but... You mentioned I could skip in time. No one, NO ONE, knows that. Not even Seph knows that. I haven't done it in YEARS.

Zoe (to Victor): ... Thank you. So, uh, this is where you live? This is… Nice… How come you don't stay in the bunker?

Victor (to Zoe): The bunker? Mom reinforced a couple of rum running tunnels, but I wouldn't call it a bunker.

Zoe (to Victor): Heehee, well then I have something to show you. There's a secret door. She told me she had them built a long time ago. I'm hoping that they're here, anyway.

Victor (to Zoe): What the hell are you... Holy shit!

Zoe (to Victor): Heehee, there should be food & living quarters down here… At least, in theory.

Victor (to Zoe): Wow. How long has Mom been working on this? This is...

Zoe (to Victor): Amazing?

Victor (to Zoe): Yeah. Exactly. Heh. It's been three years, and I'm still finding stuff from them...

Zoe (to Victor): Heh. That sounds about right... So, tell me about yourself.

Victor (to Zoe): Oh no. You already know all about me, minus three fucking years or so. Tell me about you. What's your life like? In your time, are Mom and Dad still enormous pains in the arse?

Zoe (to Victor): Well yeah, of course... Um, I lived with Mom & Dad in west piedmont. I'm a junior in high school... I don't really know what else you want to know.

Victor (to Zoe): Shit. Heh. I don't know... Who's Colin?

Zoe (to Victor): Oh, He's my boyfriend... Or I guess, he was.

Victor (to Zoe): Wait right here...

A couple minutes later:

Victor (to Zoe): Here. It tastes like arse, and you'll probably feel like you're about to go blind, but it does the job.

Zoe (to Victor): Heh. Is this Uncle Bernard's hooch?

Victor (to Zoe): ... Heh. Yeah. It is SO strange having you know this kind of thing. So. I'm guessing you have questions too. Go on!

Zoe (to Victor): Gah! This stuff is as bad as I remember... At least, somethings don't change... Oh, um, have you been staying with Seph's family this whole time or have you traveled? How come you're not off pirating?

Victor (to Zoe): Heh. It's tough to be a pirate without money or a ship, you know. I tried joining a few crews, but it didn't really work out. Turns out I have opinions on how shit should be done, and that doesn't always go over so well with the captain. I stay at the Inn as much as I can, but that's getting to be less and less these days...

Zoe (to Victor): Oh? Why is that? ... Cuz of the women?

Victor (to Zoe): No, of course not! That's only 1/3... No, 2/3 of the problem at the most.

Zoe (to Victor): Heehee... So, what's the real reason, then?

Victor (to Zoe): CLANNG knows I'm a skipper. They're SALIVATING to catch me violating a law or ordinance so they can get their hands on me.

Zoe (to Victor): ... That doesn't surprise me.

Victor (to Zoe): They don't need that kinda trouble at the Inn.

Zoe (to Victor): I suppose they don't... I'm going to see if I can find a crash space down here, if that's alright with you... I'm sleepy.

Victor (to Zoe): Suit yourself. I'm not sleeping in this hole if I can help it.

Meanwhile, at Aiden's house; New London, Britannia:

Nathaniel (to Mrs. Esterly): Good evening, ma'am. I'm awfully sorry to disturb you so late, but we had a report that a portal was opened in this vicinity.

Aiden (to Mrs. Esterly): Mrs. Esterly, is there any wine left? ... Oh, I beg your pardon.

Nathaniel (to Aiden): Aiden? I... I mean, have we... Don't I... Do I know you?

Mrs. Esterly (to Aiden): Oh no, dear. I was just about to explain to this young man, he must have had a faulty reading.

Aiden (to Nathaniel): ... I'm sorry, I don't think so. (to Mrs. Esterly) Quite right. We don't make a habit of opening portals in our domicile.

Nathaniel (to Aiden): Oh! Oh. Yes... Of course. I'm... Excuse me. (to Mrs. Esterly) What did you say, ma'am?

Mrs. Esterly (to Nathaniel): Hee hee. I believe Master Wilkes already explained everything better than I ever could, dear.

Aiden (to Nathaniel): You know, if you're going to keep staring at a gentleman like that, someone might get the wrong idea...

Nathaniel (to Aiden): What kinda idea would that be, Lord Wilkes? Cause I got plenty of ideas. Fact that they're wrong is what makes 'em fun.

Aiden (to Nathaniel): ... I am not quite sure what you're referring to, sir. I do believe my family has immunity from these sort of intrusions or does being the son of the director of ISS now mean absolutely nothing?

Nathaniel (to Aiden): Now, now. I ain't intruding. I'm following up on a lead. Just doing my job. We all gotta do our part, right? And it's a crying shame you don't know what I mean... Night!

Aiden (to Nathaniel): ... I know exactly what you mean, however there's a lady present... Good day, sir.

Nathaniel (to Aiden): As you wish…

A moment later:

Nathaniel: Am I fucking Wesley? Why the hell did I say that?

Back in the Future, Day 135

At Poppy & Vincent's apartment; West Piedmont:

Poppy (to Zoe): Zoe honey, are you feeling okay? You're late for school.

Zoe (to Poppy): Oh, I was hoping to stay home or go in later, Mom. I don't have any tests... I brought Nate over. He wanted to see you guys.

Poppy (to Zoe): Oh well, in that case I'll go fix some breakfast for all of us, honey.

Zoe (to Poppy): Thanks, mom. I'll get cleaned up & come help.

A short time later:

Poppy (to Zoe): Thank you, honey... It seemed like a good idea at the time, to put all the pans in the bottom cabinets. However, bending over is a bit of a problem with your little brother taking up so much space. Heehee.

Zoe (to Poppy): Heh. Was Victor this much trouble when you were pregnant with him?

Poppy (to Zoe): Probably more so, honey. We were young & he was our first. I was way more stubborn than I am now. And, wanted to be able to continue on with business as usual. I've been a lot more relaxed this time around. Heh. In fact, so has your father. He was an absolute wreck.

Zoe (to Poppy): Heehee...

Vincent (to Poppy & Zoe): Don't go spreading nasty rumors about me. I wasn't an absolute wreck. I was a hysterical mess. :-P

Poppy (to Victor): You were wonderful, lover. There's coffee made & Zoe is helping make breakfast. She brought Nate over to visit. He missed you guys. He's been feeling a bit homesick, I think.

Vincent (to Poppy): Hee hee. Well, I'm glad to hear it. Good morning, gorgeous. Awww, Nate has been homesick?

Zoe (to Vincent & Poppy): Yeah. That or he's just bored. He doesn't have much to do over there. Being the kept man of a lord must be really tough work, if he actually misses this side. :-P

Nathaniel (to Zoe): Real nice, shortie. 

Zoe (to Nathaniel): Heehee. You know, I'm just teasing. I knew you were there. :-P

Poppy (to Nathaniel): Come here, Nate, and give me a hug. Ignore your cousin.

Nathaniel (to Poppy): Hey Aunt Poppy. Wow! So, uh, that's a lot of baby on board, huh?

Poppy (to Nathaniel): Heh. Thankfully, little Lucas will be making his exit in another month or so.

Vincent (to Nathaniel): Hee hee. It is indeed. She looks beautiful, doesn't she? Give me a hug, grumpy puss.

Poppy (to Zoe & Nathaniel): So, what's going on you two? You both seem tense.

Zoe (to Poppy & Vincent): Nothing much. Just stupid teenager stuff.

Nathaniel (to Poppy & Vincent): It's, uh, it's my fault. I... I've been kinda paranoid with all this stuff going on. And Ms. Dvorak and Mrs. Esterly were asking me a bunch of questions cause they're trying to figure stuff out.

Poppy (to Nathaniel): Well, no wonder you're rattled. Do you want breakfast with your coffee? Or are you still on a mostly liquid diet, honey? :-P

Nathaniel (to Poppy): I'll take some toast if you have it, thanks. Heh. I've been eating. Mrs. Esterly isn't big on letting me skip meals.

Poppy (to Nathaniel): Well, that's good... Here's your toast. So, are you just here for a short visit or can we talk you into staying longer?

Nathaniel (to Poppy): Oh. Um, I was just planning on a short visit. I mean, I'm still considered a missing person over here, right?

Poppy (to Nathaniel): Only for a few days more, honey. Aiden's lawyer is a miracle worker. I think you'll be able to come home by next week.

Nathaniel (to Poppy): REALLY? Oh god. I'd... I would really like to come home...

Vincent (to Nathaniel): Are you alright, Nate?

Nathaniel (to Vincent & Poppy): I'm fine. Heh. Sorry. Just... It's just a relief, is all.

Zoe (to Nathaniel): ... Nate, don't you have that thing I need to get you back for? You know, that thing you didn't want to be late for?

Poppy (to Zoe & Nathaniel): What sort of thing is that, honey?

Nathaniel (to Poppy & Vincent): It's Aiden's fu--, uh, stupid father. He's coming to dinner. I have to make sure I'm out of the way. I told Seph I'd help Charles out with dinner tonight at the Inn.

Poppy (to Nathaniel & Zoe): Oh well then, we shouldn't keep you two too much longer, I suppose.

Nathaniel (to Poppy): Yeah. Probably not... I can visit everyone properly next week. You know, when I'm home for good.

Poppy (to Nathaniel): I will hold you to that, honey.

Vincent (to Zoe & Nathaniel): You two aren't planning something stupid, are you?

Zoe (to Vincent): Of course not, Dad.

Nathaniel (to Vincent & Poppy): No, sir. Heh. I'm way too fucking paranoid to be anything but cautious.

Vincent (to Nathaniel & Zoe): Good. Give us another hug if you two are headed off.

Nathaniel (to Vincent & Poppy): I, um, I love you guys. I'll see you next week. (to Zoe) Let's go.

Zoe (to Poppy & Vincent): I'll be back shortly. (to Nathaniel) Okay. Here we go!

Meanwhile, onboard the Airship Holden:

Hiiri: HAHAHA, it's working! ... It's time you got yours, you little munchkin brains.

Back in the Future, Day 134

At Aiden's house; New London, Britannia:

Zoe: Ummm. Hello? Anybody home? Mrs. Esterly? I'm sorry to call so early. I got a message that someone needed a lift to West Piedmont.

Mrs. Esterly (to Zoe): Hello, sweetie! Come inside. Would you like a cuppa or something sweet? I'm afraid we had to take charge of one of your classmates. A mercenary grabbed him from your school. I'm sorry to make you come all the way here, dear.

Zoe (to Mrs. Esterly): A cup of tea & a sweet would be wonderful, Mrs. Esterly. Thank you... So, it's one of my classmates? That's weird.

Joseph (to Zoe): Hey Scout. Come to bring me home?

Zoe (to Joseph): Joseph!?! ... Well, this explains a lot.

Mrs. Esterly (to Zoe): Here you are, Zoe. (to Joseph) Joseph, would you like something before you go as well?

Joseph (to Mrs. Esterly): Yes, please. I'm going to really miss your cooking, Mrs. E. (to Zoe) What does it explain?

Zoe (to Joseph): Oh... nothing important. It just seems like skippers tend to gravitate towards each other or to certain areas with natural occurring portals.

Mrs. Esterly (to Joseph): Hee hee. Aren't you sweet? Anytime you visit New London, dear, you're more than welcome to stop in for a bite.

Joseph (to Zoe): Oh. (to Mrs. Esterly): Thank you again for everything.

Mrs. Esterly (to Joseph): It was a pleasure, dear.

Nathaniel (to Zoe): Heh. I thought I heard you down here, short stuff. (to Joseph) Come to take home Crazy Boy Joe here?

Zoe (to Nathaniel): Yeppers. He hasn't been causing you too much trouble, has he? :-P

Nathaniel (to Zoe): Fuck yeah. He was running around New London yesterday telling people I brought him here for a Wild West Circus. Cause I fucking look like the cowboy type, don't I? 

Joseph (to Nathaniel & Zoe): Hey! Right fucking here.

Nathaniel (to Joseph): I know you're right there. That's why I'm saying it. :-P

Joseph (to Nathaniel): And yeah, you look like a cowboy... We've all seen 'Brokeback Mountain'. :-P

Zoe (to Joseph): ... I am so going to leave you here.

Joseph (to Zoe): Don't you fucking dare. My mom would miss me... Heh. when she finally realizes I'm missing.

Nathaniel (to Joseph): Heh. See you later, Joe. (to Zoe) And you, gimme a fucking hug! Miss you, shortie. Tell everyone I said hi, OK?

Joseph (to Nathaniel): Bye, Nate. Thanks for your help.

Zoe (to Nathaniel): I will. I miss you, too. Heck, even Mars misses you. I hope you're coming home soon. 

Nathaniel (to Zoe): Yeah. Me too. (to Joseph) Later. Thanks for yesterday. And, uh, sorry.

Joseph (to Nathaniel): For what? 

Nathaniel (to Joseph): Heh. For nothing obviously. Don't worry about it.

Zoe (to Joseph): All set?

Joseph (to Zoe): Yeah. (to Nathaniel & Mrs. Esterly) Bye. Thanks again.

Zoe (to Joseph): Here we go!

Mrs. Esterly (to Nathaniel): Speaking of yesterday, dear. Sit down. You're eating something.

Ms. Dvorak (to Mrs. Esterly & Nathaniel): Oh, did I just miss one of the Potters? Damn. Hello, Agatha dear... And, you must be Nate. I'm sorry to intrude so early but I had some questions.

Mrs. Esterly (to Ms. Dvorak): I'm afraid you did. Have a seat. Do you want a little something stronger than sugar in your tea, dear? (to Nathaniel) Nathaniel, this is Ms. Dvorak.

Nathaniel (to Ms. Dvorak & Mrs. Esterly): Oh! Um, yeah. I've heard about you. Nice to meet you, ma'am.

Ms. Dvorak (to Mrs. Esterly & Nathaniel): I apologize for the trouble with Delphine the other day. I had no idea she was rounding up skippers for Hiiri. That's a risk you take when you work with mercenaries, I suppose. They're only as loyal as the money in their pockets allow them to be.

Nathaniel (to Ms. Dvorak & Mrs. Esterly): Oh. Yeah... If there's anything I can do to help, I'm more than willing.

Ms. Dvorak (to Nathaniel): Oh good. I have a strange question... Who might Hiiri refer to as a chihuahua or munchkin?

Nathaniel (to Ms. Dvorak): ... Shit. I dunno. My uncle maybe? I mean, I know he's short, and she doesn't like him.

Ms. Dvorak (to Nathaniel): And, if it was plural? Would you think it was referring to Poppy as well?

Nathaniel (to Ms. Dvorak): Yeah. I'd guess so. I mean, they're both kinda tiny. Especially Aunt Poppy.

Ms. Dvorak (to Nathaniel): Hmmm, just as I suspected. One last question. How long ago was your spot of trouble back home, dear?

Mrs. Esterly (to Ms. Dvorak): Heh... Which spot of trouble? According to my folks, I was a pain in the ass from the beginning.

Ms. Dvorak (to Mrs. Esterly): Thank you for the tea, Agatha. It's perfect. (to Nathaniel) The first time you were institutionalized, dear.

Mrs. Esterly (to Ms. Dvorak): You're very welcome.

Nathaniel (to Ms. Dvorak): Oh. Yeah. Course. Hiiri was involved in that. Right. It was a little over three years ago.

Ms. Dvorak (to Nathaniel): Oh dear... (to Mrs. Esterly) Do you think 3 skippers would be enough to jump back that far or would it require 4? We may need to find someone to ask.

Mrs. Esterly (to Ms. Dvorak): I'm not sure, dear. Zoe and Victor appear to be able to do it on their own, and take someone along with them. But, I suspect they may be special cases. I would imagine ideally she'll need 4, but she may try to make due.

Ms. Dvorak (to Mrs. Esterly): Which would certainly explain why she was eager to get her hands on Zoe...

Nathaniel (to Ms. Dvorak & Mrs. Esterly): What are you talking about? What's going on?

Ms. Dvorak (to Nathaniel): Sorry dear. Did anyone ever tell you about Vincent's sister?

Nathaniel (to Ms. Dvorak & Mrs. Esterly): Emma? Yeah. I know Hiiri's kinda based on her. So is Zoe.

Ms. Dvorak (to Nathaniel): Yes, yes. We all know that. Do you know what Hiiri tried to do to her? Why her daughter was born over here? I'm guessing no. Hiiri moved Emma five years in the past on this side, in hopes that she could get to Vincent before she did. She couldn't kill her because she was worried that it would cause her to cease to exist... Sadly, for her it didn't work that way & she couldn't crossover to West Piedmont once she did. Time Paradox or some such scientific mumbo jumbo. It goes right over my head, dear.

Nathaniel (to Ms. Dvorak & Mrs. Esterly): Yeah. Same here. Well, thank fucking god for that. So, she wanted to kill him before Emma found him, and he found out he was a skipper, right? No. Wait. She couldn't do that or she wouldn't be built. I don't get it. Why would she... Did SHE wanna fucking raise him?!

Ms. Dvorak (to Mrs. Esterly & Nathaniel): Give that boy a kewpie doll! Yes, you are absolutely spot on and I think she's trying it again. Only, this time with you, dear.

Nathaniel (to Ms. Dvorak & Mrs. Esterly): WHAT?! That is just fucking... Why the fuck would she wanna do that? She doesn't even know me!

Ms. Dvorak (to Nathaniel): Oh, but I think she does. (to Mrs. Esterly) Agatha dear, could you please tell him what we discovered?

Mrs. Esterly (to Nathaniel): Here. Drink this, Nathaniel. It appears that Hiiri has been watching you and your family for some time, dear. Much longer than just three years. I'm sure she suspected the skipping gene would be genetic and wanted to keep an eye out to see if any of you developed any talents along those lines. I'm sure it was also for her own amusement. She would have all of Emma's memories, you see, and--I'm only speculating, of course--but I wouldn't imagine she had much love for your grandfather, dear. She remembers how Emma discovered your uncle, you see. And your grandfather, and then your father, were both public figures, dear. Easy to spy on. We believe she was the source that leaked the info about your grandfather that caused all those scandals. 

Nathaniel (to Mrs. Esterly & Ms. Dvorak): ...Yeah. I kinda suspected that already. Christ... But why ME? I'm not even a very good skipper.

Ms. Dvorak (to Nathaniel): But, you could be, dear. If you had the right teacher & the time to learn.

Mrs. Esterly (to Nathaniel & Ms. Dvorak): And I do hate to say this, but we think she replaced your grandfather with an automaton over a year ago. He was behind the scenes pushing your family to institutionalize you, no doubt. She's been doing a lot work behind the scenes. Manipulation the rift between you and your family to grow, making sure you were vulnerable. That man who offered to help you get to New York when you ran away? He was one of her agents, dear. As were some of employees at the State Hospital, and a minister from your father's church. The reason you're not with her now is because you stopped at your aunt & uncle's.

Ms. Dvorak (to Nathaniel & Mrs. Esterly): She hadn't planned for that. She didn't know you even knew about him.

Nathaniel (to Ms. Dvorak & Mrs. Esterly): Yeah. My parents mentioned him occasionally. Mostly blaming him for all the bad shit in the press... And I can do a fucking internet search. This is... This is fucking crazy! So, now what? What's she doing now? Why is three years ago important? Is she just gonna snatch me outta the hospital or something?

Ms. Dvorak (to Nathaniel): No, dear. Three years ago, the Potters were based on this side. If something were to happen to them over here, it would be quite some time before anyone noticed back home in West Piedmont, however lots of wheels would be set in motion...

Nathaniel (to Ms. Dvorak & Mrs. Esterly): Oh my god. And then if she wants to get her hands on me, she knows where I'm gonna be... Shit! And Zoe!

Ms. Dvorak (to Nathaniel): Yes, that's what we're thinking, dear. Now, this is all just speculation but after Delphine told me about the machine that Hiiri has & her need for skippers to power it. I'm fairly certain we're correct.

Nathaniel (to Ms. Dvorak & Mrs. Esterly): So, what do we do? I mean, she doesn't have all the skippers she needs, right? She... She can't DO this.

Ms. Dvorak (to Nathaniel): I don't know, dear. That's what we need to find out... (to Mrs. Esterly) Agatha, I have a friend of Poppy's working on a machine of our own. One that will hopefully neutralize Hiiri's however, we need answers to a few questions regarding the device that she's using. Do you think you can do something about it? I wrote the questions down.

Mrs. Esterly (to Ms. Dvorak): Of course I can, dear. Who do I need to speak to?

Ms. Dvorak (to Mrs. Esterly): There's a lab assistant of Maladori's that's just returned to the city. Name of Redken. I think he'd be a good start.

Mrs. Esterly (to Ms. Dvorak): Of course. I think I'm going to ask Fiona to help me. Hee hee hee. She's been hanging about looking for something to do. Oh, don't worry, dear. I won't have her help with the question asking.

Nathaniel (to Ms. Dvorak & Mrs. Esterly): Is there anything I can do?

Ms. Dvorak (to Nathaniel): I don't rightly know, dear. What can you do? (to Mrs. Esterly) Good god, that woman isn't very good with subtle.

Nathaniel (to Ms. Dvorak & Mrs. Esterly): ...Not much. Cook a handful of things. Open portals under extreme duress. Sorry.

Mrs. Esterly (to Ms. Dvorak): Hee hee hee. Oh good heavens, no. But that's rather her specialty, isn't it?

Ms. Dvorak (to Nathaniel): Don't worry, dear, if we have need of you, we know where to find you. (to Mrs. Esterly) Heehee, it'll be just like old times. Won't it, dear?

Nathaniel (to Ms. Dvorak & Mrs. Esterly): Oh. Yeah. I'm gonna... I'm gonna go grab a cigarette.

Mrs. Esterly (to Ms. Dvorak): Oh, good heavens no. We're much smarter now, dear. Hee hee hee. Oh! I do admit to being a bit giddy. We haven't had a good adventure in ages.

A short time later, in the garden:

George (to Nathaniel): Need a light?

Nathaniel (to George): Oh, uh, yeah. Thanks. Here to see Ms. Dvorak?

George (to Nathaniel): Heh. I drove the horseless carriage. She said I needed to know how to drive the bloody thing, it might come in handy. She's been teaching me a bunch of things.

Nathaniel (to George): Yeah... It's not a bad idea to learn as much as you can. And Ms. Dvorak is a sneaky bastard, so she can teach you a lot.

George (to Nathaniel): Heh. You're probably right.

Nathaniel (to George): About her being a sneaky bastard? Heh. No shit I'm fucking right. You don't wanna end up fucking useless...

At Renfield's, West Piedmont:

Seychella (to Oliver): Sooo, I'm curious. What do you do for fun? You always seem to be here... when I'm here to work, when I stop by after class for a "I need to study late" coffee... there has to be SOMEthing you do other than work here and make coffee...

Oliver (to Seychella): Oh. Well, not really. But I really don't mind! I did try to ask someone who worked here out on a date once.

Seychella (to Oliver): REEEally... from the "tried" I take it that didn't work out as you'd hoped.

Oliver (to Seychella): Oh. I wasn't expecting anything, but no. It didn't work out. I'm not very good at dating. Neither was he, of course. So I thought together we could maybe learn how to do that, but I made him a bit too nervous, I think.

Seychella (to Oliver): oh... OOH! Wow. I'm sorry, I didn't realize that... uh.. nevermind. SO, there has to be something you like to do. Read, listen to music... go to the museum... watch movies.. something?

Oliver (to Seychella): Oh. I'm not gay. I don't really prefer men to women or women to men, for that matter. I do read and watch movies rather extensively.

Seychella (to Oliver): So what... you're a "true neutral" in your sexuality? That's... different.

River (to Seychella & Oliver): Heh. Are you grilling Oliver on his dating life?

Seychella: Hello foot.. have you met mouth? Of course you have... (to River & Oliver) I... no... just. I was just curious! Oh, hey, look... we're out of milk up here. I'm... going to the cooler.

Oliver (to Seychella): Oh no. I think we have plenty of milk for the... (to River) Why on earth did she run off?

River (to Oliver): Fuck. Sorry about that. I didn't mean to interrupt. I was just bringing up the scones you asked for.

Oliver (to River): Thank you. Did I say something strange?

River (to Oliver): You're fine. I don't think it was you, Oliver. Is there anything else you need up here?

Oliver (to River): No, I think we're alright. Thank you, River.

River (to Oliver): You're welcome. Back to the coal mine.

A moment later, in the kitchen:

Seychella: Crap... we had plenty of milk up there. What can I bring back with me so I don't look like a total moron...

River (to Seychella): Sey? Are you hiding in here? I'm sorry I interrupted earlier.

Seychella (to River): … I might be. Is it that obvious? I get flustered easily. I.. well.. didn't want it to look like. I'm not sure what it looked like actually.

River (to Seychella): Heh. It just looked like you were talking to Oliver. I really am sorry I flustered you... You know? If you want to ask him out you're going to have to be more straight-forward. He's not very good with the subtle hinting. In fact, he's downright terrible at it.

Seychella (to River): Yeah, so I'd noticed. But, I was trying to use that to my advantage, however awkwardly. I'm not sure I want to actually ask him out... but I DO want to find out more about him. He's... very different from anyone I've ever met before. Figured once I found out more about him then I'd decide.

River (to Seychella): Heh. Fair enough... I do know that he really likes old movies, especially anything with the Marx Brothers.

Seychella (to River): Huh… wouldn't have pegged him for someone that would enjoy pun humor. Here, help me figure out what I can bring up front so I don't look like a complete idiot for running back here.

River (to Seychella): Heh. No problem. Take this sleeve of to go cups & napkins. That should help.

Seychella (to River): Thanks... I think I've reached a manageable embarrassment level now.

River (to Seychella): Heh. You'll do fine.

A minute later:

Seychella (to Oliver): Sorry 'bout that. I… uh… brought these once I remembered we did have milk.

Oliver (to Seychella): Oh! We needed more napkins. Thank you!

Seychella (to Oliver): You're welcome. So… Ya know, if ya ever wanna hang out outside of work, just let me know. Or not. Whatever works for you.

Oliver (to Seychella): I wouldn't mind that. What would you like to do?

Seychella (to Oliver): Well, the film students at the college are holding a film festival down at the student union next week. I think its gonna be mostly old movies and some of their own. Their 'influences' and then their work. So, it shouldn't be COMPLETELY terrible and "avant garde". I never expect anything intelligible from student work.

Oliver (to Seychella): Oh! I would like that. It's always very interesting to see how people with more ambition and talent than experience interpret their influences. I would like that.

Seychella (to Oliver): Okay... so. It's not this Friday, but next. I think it gets started at 6 or so... I'll find out for sure and let you know.

Oliver (to Seychella): their influences. I would like that.

Onboard the Airship Holden:

Delphine: Where am I!?! … Oh, merde!

Starling (to Delphine): Miss Hiiri will be with you shortly, miss. Don't bother to try to escape. We've made some improvements since you were last held here.

Delphine (to Starling): Do I really have a choice?

Starling (to Delphine): Not at all.

A couple hours later, at Aiden's house; New London, Britannia:

Nathaniel (to Aiden): Oh shit! Hey. I didn't hear you come outside.

Aiden (to Nathaniel): So, Mrs. Esterly told me what happened with Ms. Dvorak. Are you okay?

Nathaniel (to Aiden): Yeah, I think so... Shit no. I'm kinda fucking freaked.

Aiden (to Nathaniel): I'm sorry, Nate. Come here.

Nathaniel (to Aiden): With fucking pleasure. I love you...

Aiden (to Nathaniel): I love you, too... It's going to be okay.

Nathaniel (to Aiden): God, I fucking hope so. If Hiiri goes back in time and grabs me when I show up at my aunt and uncle's...

Aiden (to Nathaniel): ... I probably shouldn't be encouraging this sort of thing, but have you thought about talking to Victor & Zoe?

Nathaniel (to Aiden): Pfft! Yeah. What are we gonna do? Go back in time and say, "Hi. You don't know me, but I'm your nephew. Please don't get shot by a crazy, fucking robot?" ...Wait. That might actually work.

Aiden (to Nathaniel): Heh... It's been known to work before.

Nathaniel (to Aiden): Alright... I'll see if I can get a hold of my cousins. Would you... Do you mind hanging out with me for the rest of today? Or at least until I can reach Zoe and Victor?

Aiden (to Nathaniel): I wouldn't mind at all. It would actually be my pleasure.

A few hours later:

Zoe (to Nathaniel): Nate? I got your message. What's going on?

Nathaniel (to Zoe): Hey. Shit... I'm not sure how to tell you this. It's fucking Hiiri. Mrs. Esterly and Ms. Dvorak think... They think she's gonna try to kill your mom and dad. And make a grab for us. 

Zoe (to Nathaniel): What!?! When? How?

Nathaniel (to Zoe): Three years in the past. She's been working on a time-traveling... THING. I'm guessing it's not a fucking DeLorean. She needs four skippers to power the thing. She has three.

Zoe (to Nathaniel): Shit… That's not going to stop her for long. Have you told Victor?

Nathaniel (to Zoe): No. He's been out of range for a couple of days. That's why we called you to pick up Joseph.

Zoe (to Nathaniel): That's probably for the best. Do we know if she's tried it yet?

Nathaniel (to Zoe): I don't think so. Ms Dvorak thinks that she's waiting on the last skipper. But they don't think she'll wait long.

Zoe (to Nathaniel): No, she probably won't… How you holding up?

Nathaniel (to Zoe): Fucking freaked. How about you?

Zoe (to Nathaniel): Freaked but also kinda relieved that I now know why she wanted me. Doesn't make me any less angry or freaked, though.

Nathaniel (to Zoe): I don't think that's the only reason she wants you... Ms Dvorak said that she wanted to grab your dad after he ran away and fucking raise him. They think she's trying to pull the same shit with me and you... 

Zoe (to Nathaniel): Oh yeah, I remember that... We can't let that happen.

Nathaniel (to Zoe): Aiden suggested we go back ourselves and warn your folks.

Zoe (to Nathaniel): Yeah, we should… And, we should go soon.

Nathaniel (to Zoe): C'mere!

Zoe (to Nathaniel): Huh? Oh! God, it must be bad if you're giving me a hug on your own.

Nathaniel (to Zoe): Nah. I mean, I've hugged you at least like four times on my own... It'll be fine. We'll warn your folks, and then... It'll be fine.

Zoe (to Nathaniel): Yeah... You wanna come home with me & see them? I should be getting back.

Nathaniel (to Zoe): ...Yeah. Kinda. Do you think it'll be alright?

Zoe (to Nathaniel): I think one night won't make a difference. Besides, Mom's so pregnant & I know she'd love to see you.

Nathaniel (to Zoe): Yeah. Gimme a second. I wanna go say goodbye to Aiden.

Zoe (to Nathaniel): Okay.

A moment later:

Nathaniel (to Aiden): Hey. I just told Zoe what's going on. I, um, I was thinking about going to visit my aunt and uncle. Just for a night.

Aiden (to Nathaniel): That's quite understandable. I'll miss you but I think I can handle one night. Besides, I could use a night to recuperate... You wear me out. ;-)

Nathaniel (to Aiden): Oh. Um... Heh. You complaining?

Aiden (to Nathaniel): Good god, I should say not... Be safe. I love you.

Nathaniel (to Aiden): Heh. Good. I love you too. I'll be careful, and I'll see you soon.

A few moments later:

Nathaniel (to Zoe): Ready to go whenever you are, shortcake.

Zoe (to Nathaniel): Okay... Hold my hand...

A moment later, at Poppy & Vincent's apartment, West Piedmont:

Nathaniel (to Zoe): Whoof! Heh. Haven't done that in a while.

Zoe (to Nathaniel): Yeah... It looks like they might be in bed already. Wanna crash in Victor's room? I can bring you back in the morning.

Nathaniel (to Zoe): Yeah... That'll be fine. God, I'm really tired all of a sudden. Heh. I think I've been running on pure stress all fucking day. Night.

Zoe (to Nathaniel): Good night.