Back in the Future, Day 118

At Aiden's house; New London, Britannia:

Nathaniel (to Aiden): Oh. Hey. Morning.

Aiden (to Nathaniel): Good morning. What are you doing down here?

Nathaniel (to Aiden): Making breakfast. Heh. After negotiating terms with Mrs. Esterly that is. I figured I'd forget if I didn't practice.

Aiden (to Nathaniel): Oh… That must have been difficult. The kitchen has always been her domain. Is she off pouting somewhere?

Mrs. Esterly (to Aiden): I do not pout, young man. I was getting some clotted cream and jam. Nathaniel is making us crepes and some kind of American scone.

Aiden (to Mrs. Esterly): Sorry, Mrs. Esterly. (to Nathaniel) It smells delicious.

Nathaniel (to Aiden & Mrs. Esterly): Ha ha ha! Sorry. (to Aiden) Oh. Thanks. This was the first thing Violet taught me to make.

Aiden (to Nathaniel): Is there any tea made? I feel like I should make myself scarce & go sit in the dining room.

Nathaniel (to Aiden): Heh. I don't mind if you stay if you make me some coffee. That damn hand grinder takes forever. (to Mrs. Esterly) Oh. Um, sorry, Mrs. Esterly.

Aiden (to Nathaniel): I don't mind. I'll grind the coffee for you.

Nathaniel (to Aiden & Mrs. Esterly): Heh. I believe it. Oh. Shit... I mean, damn. I mean... Crap. I burned that one.

Aiden (to Nathaniel & Mrs. Esterly): HAHA…. I beg your pardon.

Mrs. Esterly (to Nathaniel): Don't worry, dear. If you say something I've never heard before, I'll smack you one. You're fine, dear. Here your are, Master Aiden. A lovely cuppa. Now... Why do you boys both do that?

Aiden (to Mrs. Esterly): What exactly, Mrs. Esterly?

Mrs. Esterly (to Aiden): You both apologize after you laugh. It's a peculiar habit. 

Aiden (to Mrs. Esterly): Oh, I simply didn't want to appear rude by laughing at my lov-- Nate's distress.

Mrs. Esterly (to Aiden): There's no one here but us, dear. You don't have to worry. (to Nathaniel) What about you, Nathaniel?

Nathaniel (to Mrs. Esterly): Oh, um... I didn't realize I did that.

Aiden (to Mrs. Esterly): Oh right, I sometimes expect my father to come bursting in at any moment & bellow about something. Old habits, I suppose.

Mrs. Esterly (to Aiden): Well, your father is a very difficult man to bear sometimes. (to Nathaniel) What is your family like, Nathaniel? Oh, I don't mean your parents, dear. Don't fret. I heard all about them when Master Wilkes came home. I do hope you don't take offense, but if I ever met them, I would probably murder them in their sleep.

Nathaniel (to Mrs. Esterly): Wha--what?! Ha ha ha! Oh... oh shit! Heh. Yeah, no offense taken.

Aiden (to Mrs. Esterly & Nathaniel): He has a wonderful adopted family... Go on, Nate, tell her about the Potters.

Nathaniel (to Mrs. Esterly & Aiden): Oh. Um, heh. Yeah. The Potters are my aunt and uncle, Poppy and Vincent. Uncle Vincent is my dad's brother. I kind of showed up on their doorstep out of the blue, and they took me in. They're... They've been amazing. They're, um... Heh. How the hell do you describe my aunt and uncle?

Aiden (to Nathaniel & Mrs. Esterly): Theatrical?

Nathaniel (to Mrs. Esterly & Aiden): Heh. Theatrical and short. My uncle is, or uh, was--I guess--an airship captain. I think he's kind of retired.

Mrs. Esterly (to Nathaniel & Aiden): Hee hee. From the stories I've heard from Persephone, theatrical and short would be a good description.

Aiden (to Mrs. Esterly & Nathaniel): Heh. You may have met Miss Poppy before, Mrs. Esterly. She was one of Miss Dvorak's trainees.

Mrs. Esterly (to Aiden): Is she now? Let me think. Poppy... She isn't the one she pulled out of the Tombs, is she?

Nathaniel (to Mrs. Esterly): Um, I don't know. She doesn't talk about her past a whole lot.

Aiden (to Mrs. Esterly & Nathaniel): Her code name was Magpie, if that means anything. McGillivray is always calling her that. Never to her face, though.

Nathaniel (to Mrs. Esterly & Aiden): Oh! Yeah. She mentioned that she used to work as an assassin by that name. Hiiri had set some kinda trap for her and Uncle Vincent. She made it look like The Empress was asking her to come outta retirement.

Mrs. Esterly (to Aiden & Nathaniel): ... Would you two like some more tea?

Aiden (to Mrs. Esterly): No, thank you.

Nathaniel (to Mrs. Esterly): I'm sorry. Did I say something wrong?

Mrs. Esterly (to Nathaniel): Of course not, dear. The crepes were delicious, Nathaniel. Thank you very much for making breakfast.

Aiden (to Mrs. Esterly): Mrs. Esterly? You are normally a much better liar. What's wrong?

Nathaniel (to Aiden): Nothing for either of you to worry your little heads about. Just a little bit of old espionage theater, dear. That's what we used to call all the drama that used to arise within the ISS.

Aiden (to Mrs. Esterly): … Did something happen to Nate's aunt back then?

Mrs. Esterly (to Nathaniel & Aiden): Your aunt didn't have the easiest time growing up, Nathaniel. I'm glad to hear she's made a much nicer life for herself since then. That's all I'm going to say on the matter, Master Wilkes. So stop your nettling.

Aiden (to Mrs. Esterly): Yes, ma'am.

Nathaniel (to Aiden): Heh. Wanna give me a hand with the dishes, Aiden?

Aiden (to Nathaniel): Oh yes, of course.

Mrs. Esterly (to Nathaniel): Aren't you sweet? I'll leave you boys to it then. Nathaniel, I hope you don't mind if I reclaim the kitchen for tea and supper?

Nathaniel (to Mrs. Esterly): No. Of course not. Thanks for letting me cook.

At the Old Piedmont Inn, West Piedmont:

Delphine (to Winchester): Whoa there, beau, watch where you're pointing that thing! Could you please point me to Ariadne Fenris?

Winchester (to Delphine): I think not. What business do you have with her?

Delphine (to Winchester): The none of your's kind. I've come a long, long way to find her. I know she's here… Look, I was sent by her mother.

Winchester (to Delphine): I'm sorry to say you've missed her. She's out and about for the evening. You'll have to wait. We have just the place for you.

Delphine (to Winchester): Oh, you're too kind. Really, a dungeon? I thought you people were more civilized?

Winchester (to Delphine): We like to think of it as more of a "containment area". It has a much nicer ring. Sit tight.

An hour or so later, at Wanda's apartment, West Piedmont:

Vincent (to Wanda): Wanda! I was hoping I would catch you at home. Give me a hug, gorgeous!

Wanda (to Vincent): O. M. G. You know you are getting the shit hugged out of you, short stack! Let me look at you. Holy shit, dude! You look AMAZING. How the hell have you aged so well? Come inside. Lemme pour us some wine. What is up?

Vincent (to Wanda): Well, I was hoping to cash in an old favor. My ever wonderful biological family is causing trouble for my nephew Nate.

Wanda (to Vincent): Ohhh. I was wondering why I hadn't seen him or his ADORABLE boyfriend. No offense, dude, but your family fucking sucks.

Vincent (to Wanda): Don't I know it? If looks like we're going to need to retain the services of some very talented legal and medical professionals. I know we gave you a nice little nest egg to invest as you saw fit before Poppy and I went to England. Would I be able to withdraw any of those funds?

Wanda (to Vincent): Dude! Have you not been checking the quarterly reports I've been sending you?

Vincent (to Wanda): Um, well... I've received them, but honestly, I couldn't make heads nor tails of them.

Wanda (to Vincent): Hee hee hee. Oh my GAWD! Vincent! I could've totes embezzled, like, MILLIONS from you at this point. Your investments have grown at a rate better than we have expected. Basically dude. I've been making you shitloads of money.

Vincent (to Wanda): What? REALLY? Ha ha ha! Wanda, I knew you would do right by me.

Poppy (to Wanda): Hello, Wanda! (to Vincent) Lover, I've got the boys apartment all situated.

Vincent (to Poppy): Thank you, sweetness. Wanda was just telling me what a financial genius she is.

Poppy (to Vincent): I am not surprised at all. I knew there had to be loads of brains under there somewhere, honey. :-P

Wanda (to Vincent & Poppy): Seriously, guys. If you wanted to hire, like, I dunno--a horny senator's legal team for Aiden and Nate, you'd still have enough to retire on. And OF COURSE I've got brains. I wouldn't have gotten away with as much shit as I have over the years. :-P

Poppy (to Wanda): Heehee, give me a hug, you reprobate!

Wanda (to Poppy): With pleasure. Has anyone told you that you are a SEXY little preggers lady, Mrs. Vincent? ;-)

Poppy (to Wanda): Are you trying to make my husband jealous, Wanda? Because, if you are. Feel free to keep it up. ;-P

Vincent (to Poppy): I don't know if jealous is the word I'd use, lover.

Poppy (to Vincent): Well then, she clearly needs to try harder. ;-)

Wanda (to Vincent & Poppy): I have missed you two SO much. I'm glad to see that age hasn't made you behave any better. Seriously, though. Here's the name to my accountant Stevie. I'll call him tonight and tell him to expect a ring from you two. Whatever you need, it's yours. Even if, by some weird chance, there's not enough accessible funds in your account, don't worry. Whatever you need. Seriously. Not an issue. (to Poppy) And stop by my place sometime soon. I'll make Vincent *properly* jealous then...

Poppy (to Wanda): You are a doll, Wanda. Oh. Whatever happened to that young foreign thing you had lounging about? Did you finally get tired of him?

Wanda (to Poppy): Which one was that? Raul or Enzo or Isabella? Either he or she got bored or I did. :-P

Poppy (to Wanda): Heehee. I think it was Enzo, but clearly we've missed out on a lot.

Wanda (to Poppy): Hee hee hee. Oh, not that much. Trust me. Come up sometime and have sparkling grape juice while I drink all the wine, and I'll fill you in. 

Poppy (to Wanda): I'll call you this week, honey, and we can play catch-up.

Wanda (to Vincent & Poppy): Oops! I've got to run, cuties. I've got a charity something or another in 40. Let your nephew and his sweet piece of British man meat know that if there's anything they need, they just have to ask. Nate is legal now, isn't he?

Vincent (to Wanda): Wanda...

Poppy (to Wanda): Heehee, yes he is… Don't even think about it, honey.

Wanda (to Vincent & Poppy): I'm just kidding! See you later, Potters!

Poppy (to Wanda): Goodbye, honey.

A few minutes later:

Vincent (to Poppy): Hee hee hee. Wanda is far too much... She's not kidding, though. Look at this. She texted it to me while we were talking. It's the balance of our "portfolio."

Poppy (to Vincent): … Oh my. That can't be correct, can it?

Vincent (to Poppy): Apparently, she's been making a lot of very smart investments on our behalf over the years. Hee hee hee. I guess money won't be an issue any time soon. Even with the little one on the way.

Poppy (to Vincent): Will you take me out for ice cream, lover? I feel like we need to celebrate.

Vincent (to Poppy): Heh. I will get you whatever you desire, lover.

Poppy (to Vincent): Ice cream will do just fine, lover… How's our wayward daughter? She will hardly talk to me.

Vincent (to Poppy): Come on then, gorgeous. Let's get you some ice cream. Zoe is doing alright, I think. She is both annoyed at being grounded and she understands. She also may be avoiding you for a whole other reason, sweetie.

Poppy (to Vincent): Oh, like what, lover?

Vincent (to Poppy): Well, our darling girl has a boyfriend, lover. Why on earth would she possibly be avoiding her spy-trained mother?

Poppy (to Vincent): Oh? … Well, look at us, honey. We managed to raise two normal teenagers. How on earth did that happen?

Vincent (to Poppy): Heh. I'm damned if I know, lover. I just hope we an repeat the trick one more time. :-P

Poppy (to Vincent): As do I, honey… Did you ever think when we first met that we would end up here?

Vincent (to Poppy): Hee hee hee. I can honestly say I did not. Of course, I have to admit that my thoughts when I first met you were much less... Well, let's just say they were of a more physical nature. :-P

Poppy (to Vincent): Oh? From the very first moment? Was this before or after Percy? :-P

Vincent (to Poppy): Ha ha ha! After Percy, of course. But you already knew that, didn't you, lover?

Poppy (to Vincent): Heehee, I just like to tease you about that, honey.

Vincent (to Poppy): Heh. I know, you do. And I also know that YOU know, no one else in my world or yours has intrigued me as much as you have. Come here, gorgeous.

Poppy (to Vincent): Heh. Lucky me… Actually, very lucky me, lover. I wouldn't trade you for anyone in the world.

Vincent (to Poppy): Nor would I, hun. I love you very, very much, Poppy. And you too, Mr. Sidecar! I know everything looks bleak for right now, lover, but I know for certain it will all be alright.

Poppy (to Vincent): I know, honey… Ooh, I've been thinking, how about Lucas for a name? Or Hobart?

Vincent (to Poppy): Hee hee. I like Lucas, but Hobart? HOBART?

Poppy (to Vincent): Heehee, I just figured if I picked something terrible you'd like Lucas better.

Vincent (to Poppy): You sneaky little minx. I like Lucas a lot, lover. I have a feeling that you knew I would, however...

Poppy (to Vincent): You can pick the middle name, lover… Though, I was leaning towards Walker.

Vincent (to Poppy): Lucas Walker... I like it. I REALLY like it. Come here, sexy.

Poppy (to Vincent): I'm glad, lover.

Vincent (to Poppy): Of course you are. You simply love getting your way.

Poppy (to Vincent): Only when it makes you happy, lover… My ways are your ways & I just happen to know what you like.

An hour or so later, outside of Marlena's apartment, West Piedmont:

Yukiko (to Victor): Um, Victor? We may not want to go into the apartment right now.

Victor (to Yukiko): Why? What's wrong?

Yukiko (to Victor):  Nothings wrong… I just don't think you want to see Mars & River in the altogether, if you know what I mean.

Victor (to Yukiko): Oh... Heh. Not particularly. I suppose you and I will just have to entertain ourselves for a while, then. What would you like to do?

Yukiko (to Victor): We could go back to the Sister for the night.

Victor (to Yukiko): Heh. That we could. I take it you're done with communal living for a little while? :-P

Yukiko (to Victor): Honestly, I like our community of two the best.

Victor (to Yukiko): Heh. You're kind of misanthropic, you know it? That's not a complaint. As long as you keep liking me.

Yukiko (to Victor): Heehee. Why do you think Mars & I get a long so well?

Victor (to Yukiko): Heh. You. Mars. Nate. Compared to the lot of you, I'm well adjusted. And that is a sad, SAD statement all things considered. Come on. Let's get to the Sister.

Yukiko (to Victor): Give it a rest, Victor. I hate to say it but you ARE well-adjusted.

Victor (to Yukiko): Heh. Well, in my defense, I never had much basis for comparison. :-p

Yukiko (to Victor): Just don't get too well-adjusted… I like you just the way you are. You just might go off and find some "normal" girl.

Victor (to Yukiko): Heh. Yeah. I don't think you have to worry about that too much. No matter how well adjusted I might seem, I'm still a freak, and besides... After you, who else could possibly be interesting?

Yukiko (to Victor): You are very lucky that you are such a smooth talker & that it makes me simply weak in the knees.

Victor (to Yukiko): Yeah. I'm more than lucky... I love you, you know that?

Yukiko (to Victor): I know. I love you, too… What's on your mind, Victor?

Victor (to Yukiko): It's nothing definite. All this stuff with Hiiri has me feeling paranoid and jumpy. It's nothing. I just... I feel a little guilty that I hooked up with you. I don't have to worry about you taking care of yourself, you know? But, Zoe and Aiden, and even poor Mars to an extent all have to stress about dating "normal" people, you know? I know I'm being silly. I just... I feel kind of bad for Nate. He has to feel awful about what he's putting Aiden through.

Yukiko (to Victor): So, you're feeling a little guilty because you found a girl that is used to the weird?

Victor (to Yukiko): Yeah. I am. I'm being ridiculous, aren't I? I mean, it's Aiden. It isn't like it's some poor sap off the street.

Yukiko (to Victor): It's okay. Aiden's dealt with worse than this before… However, I would really like to know what Hiiri's end game is.

Victor (to Yukiko): You and me both. Come on. We won't solve anything tonight. Let's just take it easy and leave it for tomorrow. At least we know Nate and Aiden are safe for tonight.

Yukiko (to Victor): You're absolutely right.

Victor (to Yukiko): I'm glad to hear you say that. Come on...

At the Old Piedmont Inn, West Piedmont:

Ariadne, on communicator: Hello? Who is this?

Fiona (to Ariadne): Doc? Can you read me... Ouch. Hope for my sake you can hear me...

Ariadne (to Fiona): Dude? Is that you, Fiona? Where are you?

Fiona (to Ariadne): I'm... I'm not rightly sure, Doc. I'm sending you the coordinates now. If I'm not completely...alive when you get here... My report'll be in the rendezvous place. In case I don't get to say it... S'been an honor, Doc...

Ariadne (to Fiona): Stop being so melodramatic... 

A moment later:

Ariadne (to Fiona): I'm here. Dorogoy Bog! Let's get you back to the infirmary. 

Fiona (to Ariadne): Sorry... Sorry to disappoint you, lovely. I'm afraid being disemboweled isn't really melodramatic. I'd say it... I'd say it ranks as "justifiably dramatic..."

Ariadne (to Fiona): Let's get you stitched up & then, you can talk all you want about your funeral plans.

Fiona (to Ariadne): Mmm, aye, miss... If you think it isn't a lost...lost cause by now.

Ariadne (to Fiona): ... I certainly hope it's not the end. Chess has been awful since you've been gone. If you die, he'll be unbearable.

Back in the Future, Day 117

At Aiden's house, New London, Britannia:

Aiden (to Nathaniel): Good morning, my handsome boy. Did you sleep alright?

Nathaniel (to Aiden): Mmm. Morning. Yeah. Once I got back to sleep. Sorry I woke you up.

Aiden (to Nathaniel): Heh. I'm not that sorry. ;-)

Nathaniel (to Aiden): Heh... Um, I don't really know. It's not like I'm gonna be going to work or class or anything for a while. I don't know that much about London from MY time, let alone yours. I'm kinda at your mercy.

Aiden (to Nathaniel): What would you like to do today? Mrs. Esterly is heading off the market shortly. I can take you to see the sights or we can just stay here, totally your choice.

Nathaniel (to Aiden): Um, would you mind if we stay in? For now? I mean, I dunno how to talk or act or anything over here, you know? I don't wanna get you in trouble or something...

Aiden (to Nathaniel): Heh. You don't have to be so nervous. We'll be fine here.

Nathaniel (to Aiden): Oh... Heh. Yeah. OK.

Aiden (to Nathaniel): Here. Let me show you the house & help you get acclimated.

Nathaniel (to Aiden): You're sure it's OK? That you're here, and I'm here with you, right? I mean, this is where Hiiri's from and you're wanted for treason, and you said if your dad finds out that you're with a guy...

Aiden (to Nathaniel): No, no, you're right. We'll stay in, then. Are you hungry?

Nathaniel (to Aiden): I'm sorry. All this... all this shit has me kinda jumpy. I'm... I'll get over it.

Aiden (to Nathaniel): Let's go down to the kitchen & see if we can scrounge you up some coffee.

Nathaniel (to Aiden): I'm not hungry yet, but I would shank a guy for a cup of coffee. Yeah. ... Heh. I been INSIDE now, boy. I'm hard.

Aiden (to Nathaniel): Heh... I've been "inside" before on a mission.

Nathaniel (to Aiden): Seriously? Jesus... Heh. I'll bet you LOVED that.

Aiden (to Nathaniel): Yes, it was terrible. That was one of the reasons I have the tattoos. I needed to make friends with an O'Malley. So that I could infiltrate another smuggling ring. It was quite a terriifying year & a half.

Nathaniel (to Aiden): You were in prison for a year and a half?! That fucking sucks. I only spent a couple of weeks in juvie "to teach me a lesson" and it SUCKED. That must have been hard. And, I'm not complaining about the tattoos. :-P

Aiden (to Nathaniel): Heh... I'm glad you like them.

Nathaniel (to Aiden): I like you. I gotta admit, though, the tattoos are pretty fucking sexy. ... Oh! Oh shit. (to Mrs. Esterly) Sorry, Mrs. Esterly.

Aiden (to Nathaniel): Heh... She said you reminded her of her Liam when he was young.

Nathaniel (to Aiden): Oh god. She gave me such a, what did she keep calling me last night? Cheeky monkey? She gave me SUCH a cheeky monkey look. Liam was her husband, right? Well, I got that in my favor at least. I mean, I hope so... She liked her husband, didn't she?

Aiden (to Nathaniel): Yes... You would think so. :-p

Nathaniel (to Aiden): Hey. You never know. Some people don't like their spouses all that much. I'm pretty sure my grandma hates my grandpa.

Aiden (to Nathaniel): Come on, cheeky monkey.

Nathaniel (to Aiden): Oh god... You're not gonna start calling me that now, are you? Where are we going?

Aiden (to Nathaniel): Heh. Maybe... To the verandah. I thought it might be nice to sit outside & look into the garden.

Nathaniel (to Aiden): Pet names... We're doing pet names now. I thought we said we weren't gonna do that.

Aiden (to Nathaniel): No, I agree. Pet names are infantile & unnecessary... However, cheeky monkey is incredibly appropriate. I'm just kidding. Heh. It's not nice to make that face at your boyfriend.

Nathaniel (to Aiden): You're not fucking kidding. I can tell. Even if you don't say it, you're gonna be thinking it. Mister fucking spy, thinking no one knows what's going on in your damn head. I got your number, buddy...

Aiden (to Nathaniel): Oh? You do, do you? What am I thinking right now?

Nathaniel (to Aiden): Something that would make Mrs. Esterly make a fucking face at you.

Aiden (to Nathaniel): Maybe, you do have my number... Come here, you.

Nathaniel (to Aiden): Damn straight I do...

At Poppy & Vincent's apartment, West Piedmont:

Zoe (to Vincent): Dad? Are you & mom still upset with me?

Vincent (to Zoe): Come here, Monster. Yes, we're upset, but only because we worry about you. Your mom and I did A LOT of stupid things when we were younger, and we know EXACTLY how much grief it caused us. We love you, and don't want you to repeat our stupid ass mistakes. And this is Hiiri. The stakes are higher and more complicated than any of us can possibly realize. That being said... I don't blame you one damn bit for getting your cousin! You're still grounded, of course. :-P

Zoe (to Vincent): I know, Dad. I'm not stupid... I'll go back to my room then.

Vincent (to Zoe): Zoe, wait a minute. Come here. I know you're not stupid, hun. I never said you were. What's wrong?

Zoe (to Vincent): I was just thinking about the guy in the hospital that looked like Aiden.

Vincent (to Zoe): Yeah. Your mom has been thinking about that too. So? What are your thoughts, kiddo? The more brains we have working on this, the better. I'm afraid I'm not much help in that department. :-P

Zoe (to Vincent): Heehee... I was just trying to figure out why him? Was she going to switch them out or kill him in front of Nate? Or was she saving him for something else? And should we leave him in there? Maybe, we should take him to another facility where she can't find him.

Vincent (to Zoe): ... That's not a bad idea, sweetie. Especially since I hate the idea of leaving some poor soul with an agent of Hiiri's with a sadistic streak. Plus, if she wants him, we don't want her to have him. This is something your mom should TOTES plan.

Zoe (to Vincent): Mom already thought of this, didn't she?

Vincent (to Zoe): Heh. Hun, it's your mother. Of course. That doesn't mean we don't need your help, sweetie. This is a family problem. And you are a smart, capable young lady. We can use your help with this.

Zoe (to Vincent): Okay, Dad. I'll keep thinking.

Vincent (to Zoe): Good. Thank you. Now, not to momentarily change the subject, but I totes am. You and Colin. What's going on?

Zoe (to Vincent): Huh? Whatcha mean?

Vincent (to Zoe): Don't you "whatcha mean" me, young lady. Zoe, I promise you that no one is upset or angry with you, and I want you to feel like you can have an adult conversation with your mother or I about sex. I know I gave you and Nate a hard time in the car, but honestly, that was more for his sake than yours, Plus, you are not as sneaky as you think you are, young lady.

Zoe (to Vincent): Oh… Is this because mom found my pills? Really, I'm not taking them because Colin & I are having sex. I started taking them long before that because of my cramps. Emma went through the same thing when she was my age & Mars took me to Planned Parenthood when you were visiting Mom at the bunker… And, I'll stop babbling right now.

Vincent (to Zoe): It's not because of the pills, sweetie. If you don't want to talk about it, I can't make you. But, as I said, you CAN talk to us if you need to. And I hope you will, OK?

Zoe (to Vincent): … You want me to tell you something, don't you? Would it make you feel better if I did?

Vincent (to Zoe): You don't have to tell me anything you don't want to, hun. That being said, OF COURSE I want to know. Have you met me?

Zoe (to Vincent): Heehee, yes… Okay. Fine. We've had sex, once. It was awkward, clumsy... and absolutely sweet.

Vincent (to Zoe): Oh, hun. Come here... I'm glad you two are being careful, and I'm glad it was with someone you care about. If you continue those two trends through your whole life, I will be a happy man.

Zoe (to Vincent): I will try my best, Dad… So, you do want to hear details? Because, there was this move I used that I remembered from Eep... Heehee, I'm totally kidding… I didn't think I could actually make you blush.

Vincent (to Zoe): Do you really want to get into this with me, hun? I'm older and have FAR more experience with Perv Chicken than you. And besides, all providing me with details does is make me want to throttle Colin. No matter how much I may like him.

Zoe (to Vincent): Heh. I wasn't going to use real details… I have a LOT of memories. And, I remember you having quite a thing for Mr. Estevez when you were younger.

Vincent (to Zoe): Sweetie, he was gorgeous, awkward, and totally unavailable. OF COURSE I had a thing for him. :-P

Zoe (to Vincent): Oooo, I could tell you so many things about him. Heehee.

Vincent (to Zoe): Heh. You could no doubt tell me a whole HOST of things about Eep in his early 30s that me in my early 20s would LOVE to know. But, I honestly prefer the Eep I know now: the one who is a marvelous partner to my sister, and a good father. :-P Besides, I started dating your mother not too long after that. I REALLY can't complain about the way things turned out.

Zoe (to Vincent): Heh. Fair enough. I guess, I should go back to my grounding.

Vincent (to Zoe): Yes, you should. Give me a hug first, Monster. Ooo! We love you, you know!

Zoe (to Vincent): I know. I love you, too… I'm so lucky you guys took me in.

Vincent (to Zoe): And we are lucky to have you. Go! Go do some homework or something so your mom doesn't think we spend all morning gossiping. :-P

Zoe (to Vincent): Yes, sir… Am I really going to be grounded for an entire month?

Vincent (to Zoe): We'll see.

At Marlena's apartment, West Piedmont:

Marlena (to Yukiko): Yoyo? Are you still being fucking mopey about the whole Zoe slipping past you thing? Everyone makes mistakes. Just deal.

Yukiko (to Marlena): Leave me alone, Mars… Did you spend your entire life learning how to be unseen & then have some untrained 16 year old ditch you?

Marlena (to Yukiko): Seriously? You mean, Zoe? A clone of my mother & a psychotic robot? I think I'm going to say no… And, I'm glad she did. Otherwise, Nate would still be in that fucking hellhole. So, I'm sorry if I can't let you fucking wallow. Besides, you don't want to be just a spy.

Yukiko (to Marlena): … Just leave me alone. I'll be out in a little bit.

Marlena (to Yukiko): Fine… Then, you'll just miss out on the fucking empanadas.

Yukiko (to Marlena): Wait. You cooked?

Marlena (to Yukiko): Hell no. Mom sent 'em over.

Victor (to Yukiko): I love you, and I appreciate that you are upset, but I am about to leave you to get empanadas. I'm sorry that I'm not sorry.

Yukiko (to Victor): Tossed aside for a meat pie.

Victor (to Yukiko): If it was a choice between you and a meat pie, I would choose you. If it's a choice between watching you pout, and eating delicious empanadas... Well, that's a little harder. :-P Are you really mad?

Yukiko (to Victor): Not about you getting the empanadas. It's hard to say no to those. I really will be okay. I've just never been in this situation before. And, to have it be an untrained kid outsmart me, it just made me realize that it's a good thing I'm not being a spy, anymore… Which kind of made me sad & wonder what am I going to do? Am I destined to be an airship mechanic? Or am I doomed to be one? … Go get your empanadas. I'll be out in a bit. I promise.

Victor (to Yukiko): Yoyo... For one, you're smart, talented and amazing enough to be whatever you want to be. For two, Zoe avoided the ISS *and* CLANNG for months. It's not like she's some novice off the street. Three, if she really did "fool" you, I think it's because you either wanted to be fooled, or because you didn't want to have to deal with following around a teenager. :-P

Yukiko (to Victor): … You might be right.

Victor (to Yukiko): About you being talented and amazing? I know. :-P Come on. Let's go get something to eat.

Yukiko (to Victor): You're pretty talented and amazing, too.

Victor (to Yukiko): Well, I never doubted that. :-P Seriously, don't worry about this. Zoe is a Potter-Meriwether. We are pains in the arse. It's what we do.

Yukiko (to Victor): That's for sure. :-P

Victor (to Yukiko): Hey, we've got to be good for something. And, I hate to say it, but I'm glad Zoe gave you the slip and grabbed Nate. The only reason I didn't do it myself was because Aiden asked me not to.

Yukiko (to Victor): I'm glad that Zoe got Nate, too. (to Marlena) Have you eaten all the empanadas?

Victor (to Marlena): You better not have!

Marlena (to Yukiko & Victor): Cool your fucking jets. There's a ton of them. Mom was stress cooking. She's got more food at home. She said if we wanted more to come on over.

Yukiko (to Marlena): Oh. Man... Should we tell her that Zoe broke the law and got Nate out, or do you think that would make it worse?

Marlena (to Victor & Yukiko): I don't know. Mom's relationship with Zoe is fucking weird & complicated. But, I think she'd be happy to know that Nate is somewhere safe… He is somewhere safe, right?

Victor (to Marlena): He should be. I dropped him off at Aiden's last night.

Yukiko (to Marlena & Victor): Heehee. The idea of Nate being in Britannia is both terrifying & hysterical.

A couple hours later, at the Longfellow Inn; New London, Britannia:

Persephone (to Charles): Charles, is that care package for Mrs. Esterly ready? You know how she is about me being late for Sunday tea.

Charles (to Persephone): Yes, Miss Persephone. I put a few extras in as you asked. Are you going to deliver them?

Persephone (to Charles): Yes. With Mr. Wilkes being gone, I feel like I should check on her. Besides, she's been teaching me to play Gin Rummy. I'm sure you'll have the place more than under control while I'm gone.

Charles (to Persephone): Of course! I've already got the evening dinner prepped. You can take the rest of the evening if you need it, Miss.

Persephone (to Charles): Heehee, thank you... If you were a few years older, I'd give you such a kiss.

Charles (to Persephone): Miss--Miss Persephone! That's hardly proper!

Persephone (to Charles): Heehee. I was just teasing. Do not worry, Charles, I shall restrain myself from embarrassing you... But, it is a shame. You're going to be quite the lady killer when you're older. I can tell. Some girl is going to see what a great catch you are & snatch you from us.

Charles (to Persephone): Honestly, I have no idea what you're babbling about, Miss Persephone! If you're going to tease me, there are easier ways.

Persephone (to Charles): I just like rumpling your feathers a teeny bit. You're always so serious. Don't you ever have fun? Ever?

Charles (to Persephone): Of course I do, Miss. I schedule it every other Monday… Heh.

Persephone (to Charles): Oh my goodness! I do believe you made a joke... Are you feeling alright? Do you need a lie down?

Charles (to Persephone): Heh. Yes. I'm quite sure. If you don't leave now, Miss Persephone, I'm going to make you help me with dinner.

Persephone (to Charles): I'm going, I'm going! Thank you, Charles. You're a bloody marvel!

Charles (to Persephone): Thank you, Miss Persephone. I'm certainly glad you think so. I appreciate everything your family has done for me.

Persephone (to Charles): Awww, no need to thank us. You'd have done the same if roles were reversed. I'll see you later!

Charles (to Persephone): Goodbye, Miss Persephone!

A short time later, at Aiden's house; New London, Britannia:

Persephone: Mrs. Esterly? Hello? The door was open. Hello?

Nathaniel (to Aiden): God, I love you... Did you hear something?

Aiden (to Nathaniel): Yes... I'll be right back.

Nathaniel (to Aiden): Wait... Aiden! Should I...

Aiden (to Nathaniel): It's probably nothing. You may want to put on some clothes, just in case.

Nathaniel (to Aiden): Yeah. Wait a minute! Shit. Where the hell are my pants?

A few minutes later:

Aiden: Stop in the name of the empre-- (to Persephone) Persephone!?! What in blue blazes are you doing here?

Persephone (to Aiden): Aiden! You're alive! You brilliant bastard!

Aiden (to Persephone): Persephone, could you please let go of me?

Nathaniel (to Aiden & Persephone): Heh. I'm guessing we're not under attack?

Persephone (to Aiden): Sorry. I'm just so happy to see you. I thought you were dead. I had hoped it wasn't true... (to Nathaniel) Hello, Nate!

Aiden (to Nathaniel): Only by Persephone.

Nathaniel (to Persephone): Heh. Hey, Seph. We're, um, we're staying here for a while.

Persephone (to Nathaniel): Oh... That can't be good.

Aiden (to Persephone): That is understatement... If you're looking for Mrs. Esterly, she's down in her apartment.

Nathaniel (to Persephone): Oh. Um, yeah. Shit's kinda... It's fucked up.

Persephone (to Aiden): Oh good, I was worried. I've been visiting her every few days since the report of the explosion. (to Nathaniel) Nate, you don't have to talk about it, if you don't want to. What can I do to help?

Aiden (to Persephone): That was very nice of you.

Nathaniel (to Persephone): Right now? Nothing I think. We gotta avoid the other side right now. It's fucking Hiiri. She, um, she made it look like I'm fucking nuts, and... And like Aiden raped me three years ago.

Persephone (to Nathaniel): What!?! That is bloody awful!

Nathaniel (to Persephone): Yeah. Looks like she's taken a "special" interest in the family, and in me, cause of Uncle Vincent and Aunt Poppy...

Persephone (to Nathaniel): Oh? Should I be careful?

Nathaniel (to Persephone): Yeah. Probably isn't a bad idea. Aunt Poppy says the portals are closed and that CLANNG's been ousted from Britannia but, probably not a bad idea. Heh. Course, you're probably already super careful and shit. More than me, anyway.

Persephone (to Nathaniel): Yeah... Except... Nevermind.

Nathaniel (to Persephone): What? What is it?

Aiden (to Persephone): Seph? What did you do?

Persephone (to Aiden & Nathaniel): I may have made friends with a CLANNG officer. He's not with them anymore. He went to the colonies but he's supposed to be coming back to the city soon... I really like him. Do you think it's just a trick?

Aiden (to Persephone): Seph, are you insane?

Nathaniel (to Aiden & Persephone): Um, alright... Everyone calm down for a minute, OK?

Aiden (to Nathaniel & Persephone): I'm sorry.

Persephone (to Nathaniel & Aiden): It's okay... I know, it's stupid & probably a trick. But, once he stopped acting like a CLANNG tool, he's actually quite nice. He stole a ship & then ended up catching a ride with Victor & Yoyo to Kentucky. He's been writing to me since he's been gone.

Nathaniel (to Aiden & Persephone): Just... Be careful. Hiiri is fucking... CRAZY sneaky. She got herself set up as one of my doctors, and had agents in place when I was in the hospital every time, and got me thrown in a fucking hospital with some fucking psycho of hers that wanted to get creative with me and a sharp object.

Persephone (to Nathaniel & Aiden): Well, Sylvester might be a part of her plan... But, I hope not.

Nathaniel (to Persephone): Yeah. Me too.

Persephone (to Nathaniel & Aiden): I should get this package down to Mrs. Esterly. I'll see you boys, later. Come by the inn for dinner sometime.

Nathaniel (to Aiden & Persephone): Um, yeah. Sure. Thanks.

Aiden (to Nathaniel): Well, that was something.

Nathaniel (to Aiden): Heh. Yeah. Seph's alright. Are you, um, you still kinda hung up on her? Heh. Don't make that face. I'm not upset.

Aiden (to Nathaniel): Just a little, I suppose. But, it doesn't mean anything. I love you & our life together.

Nathaniel (to Aiden): I know. Christ, man, I figured if you didn't wanna deal with me, I wouldn't be here right now. I certainly wouldn't blame you if you didn't wanna deal with all this shit. But... You're still here, you know? With me, I mean. Now physically here. Heh. Cause this is your house.

Aiden (to Nathaniel): Come here, handsome. I'm afraid that you're stuck with me.

Nathaniel (to Aiden): Good. Cause if you think you're getting rid of me at this point, you are SO fucking mistaken.

Aiden (to Nathaniel): Heh... Would you like to continue where we left off before we were so rudely interrupted?

Nathaniel (to Aiden): Heh. Yeah. I REALLY would. And if I remember correctly, you weren't wearing that many clothes before...

Aiden (to Nathaniel): You would be absolutely right.

Nathaniel (to Aiden): Want me to help you with that?

Aiden (to Nathaniel): I'd like that a lot.

Nathaniel (to Aiden): Good. Cause I'd like to help you with that. A lot.

A short time later, in Mrs. Esterly's quarters; New London, Britannia:

Mrs. Esterly (to Persephone): Persephone! Oh! Isn't it nice to see you? You know you don't need to bring me anything. Come inside. I'll put the kettle on.

Persephone (to Mrs. Esterly): I know, but I didn't want to be rude. Besides, you're teaching me cards... So, you must be thrilled that Aiden is home?

Mrs. Esterly (to Persephone): Oh, I certainly am. I had hoped that he hadn't really died in that explosion, but... well, one can never be sure. Especially not in our line of work, dear.

Persephone (to Mrs. Esterly): So, true. What do you think of his young man? You're not going to tell Wilkes the elder are you?

Mrs. Esterly (to Persephone): Nathaniel? For one, he's all skin and bones. I don't know what Master Aiden has been feeding him, but he needs to eat. I've never seen Aiden so happy... And I certainly won't tell Lord Wilkes. I don't see why it would be any of his concern. How are you holding up, dear?

Persephone (to Mrs. Esterly): Oh. I'm just fine, I suppose... Wait. Why do you ask?

Mrs. Esterly (to Persephone): Well for one, because you said, "I suppose" after you said you were fine.

Persephone (to Mrs. Esterly): It's nothing important... Let's play some cards!

Mrs. Esterly (to Persephone): If you say so. All your cards need to be of the same suit to have a run.

Persephone (to Mrs. Esterly): Okay.

A few minutes later:

Mrs. Esterly (to Persephone): The same suit, dear. Not the same color. Also, if you're going to cheat, at least make it subtle.

Persephone (to Mrs. Esterly): Heh... I had to try.

Mrs. Esterly (to Persephone): Oh. Sweetie. That's a TERRIBLE hiding place for a card. How is running the inn going? Are you any closer to leaving? I know you're quite eager to get out of there.

Persephone (to Mrs. Esterly): Charles has been a great help. I'm hoping to be able to leave within the next few weeks.

Mrs. Esterly (to Persephone): What are you thinking you'll do after this? Gin, by the way.

Persephone (to Mrs. Esterly): Shoot! ... I was thinking of helping my cousin & his girl on his airship or maybe going to school.

Mrs. Esterly (to Persephone): Oh yes! Your cousin's the pirate, isn't he? Which would you rather do?

Persephone (to Mrs. Esterly): Honestly, I'd much rather work on the airship. But, I thought I should have a backup plan.

Mrs. Esterly (to Persephone): Well, I'm certainly not against having a backup plan, dear. Goodness knows I never headed into hostile territory without one. Of course, I never expected to live past my husband, or make it to old age. The best laid plans and all...

Persephone (to Mrs. Esterly): What was your husband like?

Mrs. Esterly (to Persephone): Liam? Oh, he acted like such a grouchy, old bugger, but he was sweet man. He was a tailor, you know. He was studying to be a doctor, but he didn't have the stomach for the blood and guts. Oh... He had NO IDEA what he was getting into when he began to court me. Every time I came home all bloody, he had to go outside and smoke a pipe afterwards.

Persephone (to Mrs. Esterly): Heehee, that sounds familiar.

Mrs. Esterly (to Persephone): I have to admit, Master Aiden's young man reminds me of my poor old, Liam. And I've never met a boy I wanted to feed more. Are you sure you're alright seeing him with someone else, dear? I know if I were you that would make me downright murderous.

Persephone (to Mrs. Esterly): Is it weird that it does make me a bit jealous? In the time we've been apart, I realized that I felt more him than I cared to admit. But, I don't have anything he wants & he seems very happy with Nate. So, what's the point of moping about it?

Mrs. Esterly (to Persephone): Oh my poor dear! Let me get us some cookies and perhaps some whiskey. It's not strange, Persephone. If I thought for one moment you did what you did to poor Master Aiden without caring for him at all... Well, I'd snap your pretty little neck, sweetheart. Have a biscuit.

Persephone (to Mrs. Esterly): Thank you... I think the only person that I was truly fooling was myself. And, it's too late now.

Mrs. Esterly (to Persephone): Well, I hate to say this, dear, but yes it is. Don't worry. I'm sure you'll find someone who interests you more. Or have you found someone else already?

Persephone (to Mrs. Esterly): I hope so, too... I told them about a young man who's been writing to me... I may have exaggerated my interest for their benefit. But, I think I've finally come to realize that finding a beau isn't all that important.

Mrs. Esterly (to Persephone): Not for a young lady like you, dear.

Persephone (to Mrs. Esterly): Heh. I should be getting back to the inn. Thank you again for the lesson & for listening to the prattle of a stupid girl.

Mrs. Esterly (to Persephone): Thank you for keeping an old lady company all this time. It is nice to know I haven't outlived everyone I care for. Same time next week?

Persephone (to Mrs. Esterly): Oh yes, of course. I enjoy our chats & games.

Mrs. Esterly (to Persephone): Of course you do, dear. Until next time. Tell Charles that I like his new scone recipe. It's delicious.

Persephone (to Mrs. Esterly): He'll be tickled to hear it. Until next time. Good night.

Mrs. Esterly (to Persephone): Good night, sweetie.

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

Persephone (to Charles): Charles, I'm back!

Charles (to Persephone): Welcome back, Miss Persephone! I have a plate waiting for you if you're hungry, miss.

Persephone (to Charles): Oh, thanks. That's very nice of you. How was the dinner crowd?

Charles (to Persephone): About like you expected. We did have a later hours rush looking for desert... And a lot of beer.

Persephone (to Charles): There must have been a match.

Charles (to Persephone): They did keep going on about goals and some kind of flags.

Persephone (to Charles): Yep, that sounds like a match... I'll be in my room, if you need me.

Charles (to Persephone): Of course. Good night, Miss Persephone. I'll finish cleaning up the kitchen. I'll see you in the morning.

Persephone (to Charles): Good night, Charles.

Charles (to Persephone): Good night.

A short time later:

Charles: ... I wonder what I should make for the breakfast crowd. Oh dear. I think I'm going to let the hem out on these trousers again. Bloody hell.