A Strange Old World, Day 13

Onboard the Maltese Falcon:

Yukiko (to Vincent, Victor & Fiona): Good morning... Is there any hot water?

Victor (to Yukiko): Good morning! I think the water in the kettle is still hot. I can put it back on the stove if not.

Yukiko (to Victor): Thank you. As long as it's not boiling, it should be fine. It's bad for the tea leaves.

Victor (to Yukiko): No, it's not quite that... Wait. What?

Fiona (to Victor): Ha ha ha! Oh no. Don't get her started. She thinks all of Britannia should have her tea confiscated, because we don't know what to do with it.

Yukiko (to Victor): Oh... I brought my own tea with me. I'm a bit particular about it. Fiona thinks I'm a snob.

Fiona (to Yukiko): You ARE a snob.

Yukiko (to Fiona): And, you're an uncivilized barbarian. :-P

Fiona (to Yukiko): Course I am! Never claimed anything else, did I?

Victor (to Yukiko, Fiona & Vincent): Heh. Everyone's particular about something. Dad has strong opinions about what the British do with coffee.

Vincent (to Victor, Fiona & Yukiko): I do. You brutes murder it. If there's a decent cup in all the Empire to be had, I haven't tasted it.

Fiona (to Yukiko): Captain Potter has been regaling me with tales FAR too funny to be true.

Yukiko (to Fiona, Vincent & Victor): Oh really? I'm sorry to have missed story time.

Victor (to Fiona, Yukiko & Vincent): Oh god... Don't tell him that. PLEASE don't get him going again.

Vincent (to Yukiko, Fiona & Victor): Hee hee hee. I'm afraid the missus and I are a deep and profound embarrassment to my son.

Yukiko (to Vincent): Oh? You don't seem all that bad to me, but then I did miss out on the stories. :-P

Fiona (to Yukiko): Let's say that I now know a whole host of new ways to get arrested at an Imperial Ball.

Yukiko (to Vincent, Victor & Fiona): Heehee... I'm not sure Fiona needs any more lessons on how to get kicked out of places. She tends to do a fine enough job all on her own.

Fiona (to Yukiko): True, but I've never done it while wearing a fancy party dress. :-P

Vincent (to Yukiko, Fiona & Victor): Hee hee. I have.

Victor (to Yukiko, Fiona & Vincent): Dad is lucky that the Empress likes him, and his antics, or he would have been hanged by now.

Yukiko (to Vincent): Well, that sounds quite impressive. I'd love to hear the story some other time.

Vincent (to Yukiko, Fiona & Victor): Hee hee. I think I'll let my son tell that one. He was the one who had to get me out of the dungeons.

Victor (to Vincent): Did you hear that? Dad! 

A few minutes later, on the bridge:

Kian: Maltese Falcon. Come in, Maltese Falcon. Potter! Answer your damn radio console. It's the one with the big dial in the center, you git!

Victor (to Kian): This is the Falcon. We read you. Who is this?

Kian (to Victor): This would be the Neptune's Bride... Victor, is that you?

Victor (to Kian): It is, Kian. What can we do for you?

Kian (to Victor): More like what I can do for you... You're heading for an ambush. Wong Fei Hung's got a trap setup ahead. We just caught wind of it. You may want to alter your course a bit.

Victor (to Kian): Oh shit! No kidding! Thank you, Kian! You saved our arses.

Kian (to Victor): I figured I owed you folks one after that mishap in the Colonies. Clear skies to you!

Victor (to Kian): Clear skies and fair winds! (to Vincent) Dad! We need to change course. 

Vincent (to Victor): Woah! I see you've already started. What's going on?

Victor (to Vincent): We just got a warning from the Neptune's Bride. Wong Fei Hung has an ambush set up ahead for us!

Vincent (to Victor): That pain in the ass. (to Yukiko) I'm afraid taking you to Singapore may take a little longer than anticipated, hun.

Yukiko (to Vincent & Victor): Is there anything Fiona & I can do to help?

Vincent (to Victor): I plugged new coordinates in, kiddo. We can regroup in Madras. (to Yukiko) How on earth did they know to expect us?

Victor (to Vincent): Aye aye.

Yukiko (to Vincent): I'm not sure... (to Fiona) Fi, I think our mission may have been compromised.

Fiona (to Yukiko, Vincent & Victor): Jesus, Mary and Joseph! I thought something about this smelled rotten. Sorry to put you in trouble, Captain.

Vincent (to Yukiko, Fiona & Victor): No worries. We've been in tighter spots before. Are you two still planning on going to Singapore?

Yukiko (to Vincent): Good question. We probably need to report to ISS before we call it a wash. (to Fiona) Fi, what are you thinking?

Fiona (to Yukiko): ...Mmm. (to Vincent) Captain, how quickly can you get us back to British airspace?

Vincent (to Fiona & Yukiko): If that's where you want to go, we may be able to make a couple of jumps to get us home shortly... I think we can help you girls out when we get home as well. (to Victor) The fastest route home will take three jumps. Do you think you'll be able to handle the last two, kiddo?

Victor (to Vincent): I can do it.

Fiona (to Vincent): If you could, we'd be obliged. (to Yukiko) The home office won't be expecting us for a few days. We need to go to ground. I'm afraid the rot's in our foundation.

Yukiko (to Fiona): ... This is my fault, isn't it? Because, I refused my last mark. You warned me there was going to be trouble.

Fiona (to Yukiko): We can worry about that when we're not on a flying death trap. (to Vincent & Victor) No offense, Captain. Mo chreach! WHAT IS THAT BLOODY BEEPING?

Victor (to Fiona): It's the proximity alarm. I guess they got tired of waiting, and decided to come and find us.

Yukiko (to Victor & Vincent): I'm very sorry for all of this.

Victor (to Yukiko): It's fine. They won't catch us. And really, you've been far less trouble than my father.

Vincent (to Fiona, Yukiko & Victor): My own flesh and blood says these things. My poor heart!

Yukiko (to Vincent, Victor & Fiona): I guess we should get out of your way, unless you need a hand.

Victor (to Yukiko & Fiona): Actually, I'm going to need you on the bridge for the next two jumps. (to Vincent) We've got about a two minute ETA until we hit the first one, Dad.

Vincent (to Victor): I'll take the helm. You're sure you can do this, kiddo?

Yukiko (to Victor): What do you need?

Victor (to Vincent): Yes. I'm sure I can handle it. (to Yukiko & Fiona) Just stay up here. It takes a lot of energy to get the ship and her passengers through a portal. Normally, we wouldn't have enough to do 4 jumps in one trip, so I'm going to help out a bit.

Yukiko (to Victor): What do you mean by help?

Victor (to Yukiko): Organic matter is a bit harder to get through a portal than inorganic, so I'm taking some of the...

Vincent (to Victor): Explain in a minute. We're about to hit the first jump. You've only got a couple of seconds between them.

Victor (to Vincent): Yes, sir. (to Yukiko & Fiona) Grab hold of my hands, and whatever you do don't let go. Try to keep your mind clear.

Fiona (to Vincent, Victor & Yukiko): I still don't see how this is going to conserve enough energy to... Mo chreach!

A short time later:

Fiona (to Vincent, Victor & Yukiko): What in the name of seven bloody hells was that?!

Vincent (to Victor): That's the last one cleared! Victor? Victor are you alright? (to Yukiko) Grab him before he falls!

Yukiko (to Vincent): Yes sir! (to Victor) Victor! Are you okay?

Victor (to Vincent, Yukiko & Fiona): Jesus... I don't think I can do that again…

Yukiko (to Victor): I don't think anyone is asking you to... Hopefully. Just rest.

Vincent (to Victor): Heh. It's alright, Victor. You don't have to. We're where you need to be. (to Yukiko) Ms. Kobayashi, could you get him to the galley? He needs some juice or coffee in him.

Fiona (to Vincent): That's an impressive little talent of your bonnie boy's, Captain Potter.

Vincent (to Fiona): That it is. I'm sure you can understand why we'd be very grateful to you and Ms. Kobayashi if you would forget you saw it.

Fiona (to Vincent): I used to be a boxer, Captain. Thing about getting hit in the head as a job, is that it makes the memory a might slippery.

Vincent (to Fiona): Thank you, Fiona.

Victor (to Vincent & Yukiko): No. It's alright. I can make it to... Ooo. Shit.

Yukiko (to Victor): Let me help you, Victor. It's alright... I'm already impressed. I promise.

A few minutes later, in the living quarters:

Victor (to Yukiko): Heh. So... That would be my parlor trick...

Yukiko (to Victor): Heh. So, I saw. Would you prefer juice or coffee?

Victor (to Yukiko): Juice if we have it...

Yukiko (to Victor): It looks like there's lemonade... Here, you are... I won't tell anyone about your secret, Victor.

Victor (to Yukiko): Thank you. So, um... Heh. I have no idea what to say.

Yukiko (to Victor): This is all a bit awkward... I feel a bit like I've seen you naked by mistake. Oh. Probably a bad analogy. My apologies.

Victor (to Yukiko): Ha ha ha! Oh... Oh shit! Ouch. Heh. Naked I could handle. Naked doesn't get you strapped down in a laboratory and dissected, or put on an ISS's "Persons of Interest" list, or conscripted into service for the Good of Queen and Country. :-P

Yukiko (to Victor): It doesn't take having a trick like yours to get you conscripted. Believe me.

Victor (to Yukiko): ... Yeah. I know. That's how my mom ended up with the ISS, and I know I probably already have eyes on me so I try to be as uninteresting as possible. Heh. Fortunately, I think I'm a bit of an undesirable because of my dad. :-P

Yukiko (to Victor): That's probably true. You look like you could use some rest. Do you need help getting to a bunk?

Victor (to Yukiko): No, I don't think so. I'm just exhausted. Trying to keep two people on a fast-moving target is more fucking difficult than... OK. Maybe I need a little help. Heh. Sorry.

Yukiko (to Victor): You know, it's not a sign of weakness to need help, Victor... Or are you just afraid of me touching you? ;-p

Victor (to Yukiko): Heh. I wouldn't use the word "afraid." Giddy, possibly. Flustered, definitely. Thank you.

Yukiko (to Victor): Heh. You're very welcome. Get some rest. I should go and see if your father & Fiona need any help.

A few minutes later:

Fiona (to Yukiko): How's the fluffy lad?

Yukiko (to Fiona): He's resting. That little trick of his took a lot out of him. What's going on up here?

Fiona (to Yukiko): The Captain's taking us back to home sweet home via some rather roundabout routes. We should be back shortly. He says he has a place we can lay low for a bit. I want to do some digging before I announce we're back. The Dandy says he as a hidey hole we can borrow, so long as we keep our yaps trapped.

Yukiko (to Fiona): Oh, of course, we'd be quiet about it. We're not idiots... So, what do you thinking is going on? I know you have an idea in that big giant brain of yours.

Fiona (to Yukiko): Oh, I've got all kinds of ideas, but it's still too early to crack any of them open. Why don't you tell me what's going on with you and Mr. Fancy Britches instead?

Yukiko (to Fiona): What? There's nothing going on. We had a drink together last night & made small talk. Oh, and I kissed him. But, that was all.

Fiona (to Yukiko): Oh. Is that all? ...Heh, heh.

Yukiko (to Fiona): ... What are you implying? I'm certainly not going to have my way with him on an airship with his father onboard... Not that I would, anyway... Stop grinning at me like that!

Several hours later, at Aiden & Nathaniel's apartment; West Piedmont:

Nathaniel: Butt Fucking God! How much of this shit am I gonna burn?

Aiden (to Nathaniel): Nate, what's going on in here? Gah! Let me open a window... Are you trying to make a smoke bomb?

Nathaniel (to Aiden): If I wanted to make a bomb, I'd just make a fucking bomb. I wouldn't choke us slowly with smoke.

Aiden (to Nathaniel): Calm down, Nate. What were you doing in here?

Nathaniel (to Aiden): I have to go to work tomorrow, and I've never cooked a day in my fucking life. I have memories of doing it, so I thought... It doesn't fucking matter what I thought. I can't do it! I'm fucking boned.

Aiden (to Nathaniel): You're not... boned? I'm not even sure what that means. However, if you talk to Emma, I'm sure she'll understand & re-teach you, if that's what you want... I am going to miss your cooking. Heh. We'll just have to order takeout in the meantime.

Nathaniel (to Aiden): … I need a fucking cigarette. Just leave all this shit. I'll clean it up in a minute.

Aiden (to Nathaniel): Can I join you or do you need a moment alone?

Nathaniel (to Aiden): Oh... Um, no. I don't mind. I mean, you can come if you want.

Aiden (to Nathaniel): ... You're rolling your own cigarettes? You always hated doing that... Damn. You really aren't my Nate, are you? There's so much about you that's the same, but you're also different.

Nathaniel (to Aiden): ... Shit. I was kinda waiting for you to say something like that. I'm... I know this is weird for you. I wish I knew what the fuck to say. If you want to... I dunno. If you want me to back off or whatever...

Aiden (to Nathaniel): ... I can't imagine my life without you in it, no matter which version you are, Nate. I love you more than anything. Just give us a little time to get to know each other again. Alright?

Nathaniel (to Aiden): I am more than fucking willing to give you how ever much time you need. Really. Look, there isn't a reality I know of that I wasn't crazy fucking in love with you. I'm not worried about that. I'm just... I know I'm not the same guy. I was... I was worried that cause I wasn't the same guy...

Aiden (to Nathaniel): Come here, you. I'm sorry to say that you are very much stuck with me.

Nathaniel (to Aiden): Heh. Wow. Holy shit I love you! ... Sorry. I, uh, I feel for you SO fucking much that it kinda freaks me out, sometimes.

Aiden (to Nathaniel): Heh. That is quite a compliment & quite a kiss... I think I could learn to like this version of you.

Nathaniel (to Aiden): Heh. I hope so, cause, honestly, whenever I'm this close to you all I can think of is ripping off your clothes with my teeth, and having my way with you 'til you beg me for mercy at least twice.

Aiden (to Nathaniel): Heh... I don't beg.

Nathaniel (to Aiden): Fucking twice.

Aiden (to Nathaniel): Prove it.

Nathaniel (to Aiden): With pleasure. Remember, you fucking asked for it.

Meanwhile, at the Longfellow bunker; The Tombs, New London, Britannia:

Yukiko: What the hell is this place? When Captain Potter said hidey hole, he wasn't kidding. I'm freezing.

Fiona (to Yukiko): Oh... I think I might be in love, Yuki. I may need some time to myself. Alone. With this bunker. It is GORGEOUS.

Yukiko (to Fiona): ... You can have it... It's like a nightmare... Only the dead should be buried like this. I-- I don't do well in places like this.

Fiona (to Yukiko): What are you... Kobayashi? Kobayashi!

A moment later:

Victor (to Yukiko): Oh! Excuse me, Ms. Kobayashi. I'm sorry I startled you. I was just bringing you some extra... Are you alright?

Yukiko (to Victor): I--I'm sorry, Victor. I can't stay here... I can't breathe. I need to get outside.

Victor (to Yukiko): It's alright. Not all of the bunker is underground. Come on.

A short time later:

Victor (to Yukiko): If you push right... Oh! There it is. Right here. There we are. Watch your step right there. Heh. These stairs have been rotten longer than I've been alive. I *think* Mom had them reinforced, but I'm not certain. Here you are.

Yukiko (to Victor): ... Thank you... I'm feeling better already.

Victor (to Yukiko): It wasn't a bother. The tunnels can be a bit much for most people, especially if you're a bit claustrophobic. My father doesn't really like them either. This is the main house. We're in the heart of the Tombs, so you don't have to worry about anyone paying you or Ms. McGillivray too much mind. Oh! I was meant to give this to you. Extra blankets and a copy of the floor plans for the tunnels. Heh. I thought your partner would like those.

Yukiko (to Victor): Oh yes, I'm sure she'll appreciate those... Are there trees in the yard here? If so, I think I'll sleep out there, if its okay.

Victor (to Yukiko): Oh. No, not really. Here... Shit. Hold on. The locks on this door are ancient... There we are. As you can see, it's not really much of a garden. More like a fenced-in alley, really. It's hard to keep trees in this part of town.

Yukiko (to Victor): ... Oh damn.

Victor (to Yukiko): You could sleep in the upstairs attic room. It's not very, uh, pleasant--it's a bit mildew-riddled, I'm afraid--but, there's a hole in the roof, so it's the closest to open air sleeping you'll be able to get around here.

Yukiko (to Victor): I guess that will have to do. Thank you for the blankets.

Victor (to Yukiko): You're welcome... Do you normally sleep outside?

Yukiko (to Victor): Yes. My flat in East Garden has a roof garden & I sleep out there most nights. It's a habit I picked up as a child... My mother wanted me to be able sleep anywhere as part of my training. Heh. Apparently, it worked too well. Besides, her punishments were to be enclosed in a locked box. If I could figure out how to escape, I was forgiven. I spent three days there once, until I discovered the trick. She had almost given up hope that I was going to get out... I'm sorry. I shouldn't have said all of that.

Victor (to Yukiko): That's terrible. I'm very sorry you had to endure all that. ...My dad is the same way, you know. He and my aunt were both tortured in a very small cell by Hiiri for a while when he was younger... I'm sorry. That's probably not helping. Heh. If it makes you feel any better, I was the opposite. I was raised on the Falcon. My mom said my first time at a park, I bawled. I didn't know how to process the open space. :-P

Yukiko (to Victor): Well, I guess I should take that as a sign that there's hope for me yet. You seem okay now... Or is it just an act?

Victor (to Yukiko): I like to think of myself as better. I haven't burst into tears in a park in --oh-- at least a year or two. ;-)

Yukiko (to Victor): Heehee... I appreciate you being so kind to me about it... Most times I can deal with the claustrophobia. But I think I'm overly stressed & it was just too much down there.

Victor (to Yukiko): I understand. It wasn't a bother. Honestly. If there's one thing we Potters understand, it's the odd and unusual. :-P

Yukiko (to Victor): Heh... I'm definitely both those things. You should probably get those schematics to Fiona. I think I'll be fine on my own.

Victor (to Yukiko): Good night, Ms. Kobayashi. I... That is, it was very nice to see you again. I hope you sleep well.

Yukiko (to Victor): Wait, Victor. What were you going to say?

Victor (to Yukiko): Heh. I, um, I really wanted to kiss you again. You are an exceptional kisser, you know. But, as you said, I should go.

Yukiko (to Victor): Oh, I would actually like that very much. I mean, the kissing part, not the you leaving... If the truth is to be told I was thinking about it all day.

Victor (to Yukiko): You have? Really? Heh. I'm not sorry to hear that. For purely for scientific reasons, you understand, we should probably try kissing again. To compare and contrast, of course.

Yukiko (to Victor): Oh yes...for science, of course... I'd hate to impede scientific discovery by refusing.

Victor (to Yukiko): Heh. Who are we to stand in the way of science...

Yukiko (to Victor): You talk too much... C'mere.

A Strange Old World, Day 12

At Winchester's house; East Garden, New London, Britannia:

Yukiko: ... Oh good, the noises have finally stopped.

A short time later:

Fiona: Huh. Sleeping like a coma patient. Just like Fox. Spies these days. Should be safe as houses here, Kobayashi. See you shortly.

Yukiko (to Fiona): I wasn't sleeping. I was playing possum. Where the hell are you off to?

Fiona (to Yukiko): Off to snoop about, ask some questions, and be a general suspicious auld bastard. The usual. Something doesn't smell right about last night. I intend to sniff it out. Shall I see what I can do about getting us a ride to Singapore as well, lovely?

Yukiko (to Fiona): I can find us a ride, I've got a few connections down at the docks. Unless, you'd rather. I honestly, could use a nap... There seemed to be an earthquake going on in the house all night & well into the wee hours... I hope it was worth it. ;-P

Fiona (to Yukiko): Ha ha ha! To be frank, I suspected Fox would be more talk than tackle, but the Sasanach managed to surprise me. I had myself a grand time, and he seems to have survived the encounter, so I'd say it's all well enough. Heh heh. Course our lovely coiffed little co-worker may have an opinion of a different sort. You'll have to ask him when he wakes up. I'll be back before the bread rises. Don't tell Fox I used his bonnie side door here. He'll be heartbroken it's not a secret.

Yukiko (to Fiona): Heh. Will do. I'd hate to break his little heart.

Fiona (to Yukiko): You know what a delicate creature he is. Get some rest, girl! What good's a delirious ninja.

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

Mrs. Esterly (to Fiona): Madainn mhath, Fiona dear. I was just puttering out in the garden. You really should announce yourself when you visit. One of these days, I am going to shoot you, you know. Come inside and I'll put the kettle on.

Fiona (to Mrs. Esterly): Can't stay long enough for the kettle, missus. I was wondering if I could trouble you for a spot of information instead.

Mrs. Esterly (to Fiona): Oh. Well, I certainly don't know what I could tell you that would be of any interest.

Fiona (to Mrs. Esterly): Ha! Don't spend all your lies on me, Artemis. Save 'em up for someone who'll believe them.

Mrs. Esterly (to Fiona): You always were a Nosy Parker, Fiona. What do you want to know?

Fiona (to Mrs. Esterly): Heh. 'Tis my only true talent, misses. I'll tell you plain; Kobayashi and I were meant for Singapore yesterday. ISS brass chartered the ship. We both got the twitchies as soon as we stepped on board. I'm as near to positive as I can be they had a ken of who we were, but I can't imagine how. We were SUPPOSED to be undercover, and that lot... Christ's wounds! They would've had to pool their brains just to tie their boots. Which begs the question, don't it?

Mrs. Esterly (to Fiona): How on earth did they know who you were? Do you think there's a leak at the ISS?

Fiona (to Mrs. Esterly): Either that or Kobayashi and I've been tagged for retirement. Would you mind asking a few friends at teatime what they know?

Mrs. Esterly (to Fiona): Of course, dear. What are you going to do about your assignment?

Fiona (to Mrs. Esterly): Make our own way to Singapore. Don't know that I can trust the Imperial channels.

Mrs. Esterly (to Fiona): I may be able to help you with that, at least. Come back around tea. (to Persephone) You can come into the kitchen now, dear. Honestly Persephone, if you're going to eavesdrop, at least be subtle about it.

Fiona (to Mrs. Esterly): Thank you, missus. You're my savior as always. We'll be here at four in bells.

Persephone (to Mrs. Esterly): Oh I'm sorry, Mrs. Esterly, I didn't mean to eavesdrop. I just didn't want to interrupt.

Mrs. Esterly (to Persephone): Hee hee. I'm sure, dear. As long as you're here, and were listening, you may as well help. I don't suppose your uncle would be able to run the girls to Singapore for bit, would he?

Persephone (to Mrs. Esterly): Oh, probably. What's today? Tuesday... He should be back in town today, prepping the ship for a run. He's usually docked at Pier 42... Should I go see if he's available?

Mrs. Esterly (to Persephone): Yes, dear. I think that would be a big help.

Persephone (to Mrs. Esterly): Alright. I'll run down there right now. when should I tell him to expect them?

Mrs. Esterly (to Persephone): I'll send them off after tea. Fiona has a bad habit of not eating or sleeping when she's got something on her mind. Oh, and be a dear and pick up some scones on your way back, will you, love?

Persephone (to Mrs. Esterly): Alright. Be back in a jiffy.

An hour or so later, at the airship docks, Pier 42; New London, Britannia:

Persephone (to Vincent): Uncle Vincent! Why are you hanging there? Do you need some help?

Vincent (to Persephone): What's that? Oh! Persephone! Hi, hun. I'm fine. I'm just making a repair to the rudder. Believe it or not, this is the easiest way.

Victor (to Persephone & Vincent): No it's not. It's just the most visually impressive way. :-P

Persephone (to Victor): Heehee. Victor! I wasn't expecting to see you. Gimme a hug! (to Vincent) When you're done being impressive, I have a business proposition for you, Uncle.

Victor (to Persephone): Heh. Dad has me helping until Mom's back in the swing of things.

Vincent (to Persephone): Do you? I'll be down in a jiff. I'm almost done.

Persephone (to Victor): Oh? Do I have a new cousin, yet? I can never figure out the time difference between the two places. (to Vincent) Yes. And, I imagine it'll pay quite well to boot.

Vincent (to Persephone): Hee hee. Lucas hasn't made an appearance yet, but we're expecting him any day now.

Victor (to Persephone): Heh. Yeah. Mom's become very zen about the whole thing, which is kind of terrifying, actually...

Persephone (to Victor & Vincent): Heehee. That does sound a bit terrifying. Permission to come aboard & make some tea for the crew?

Victor (to Persephone & Vincent): Uh oh...

Vincent (to Victor): Hush you! (to Persephone) You're always welcome aboard, Seph. Let's go someplace a little more private. 

Persephone (to Victor): Heh. Hush you. (to Vincent) Thank you, Uncle.

A moment later, in the living quarters aboard the Maltese Falcon:

Vincent (to Persephone): Now, what is this well-paying job you want to speak to me about, and why am I suddenly nervous? Is everything alright?

Persephone (to Vincent): Oh yes, everything is fine. Mrs. Esterly wanted to use your services to transport 2 ISS agents to Singapore. There was some sort of snag with their previous ride. It would be a big help to them if you could do it.

Vincent (to Persephone): Oh. Well, that should be easy enough to...

Victor (to Vincent): Uh, Dad? Isn't Madame Ching making port in Singapore right now?

Vincent (to Victor): Hee hee. She is indeed. Why do you think I said yes? :-P

Victor (to Vincent): That's what I thought.

Persephone (to Vincent & Victor): Is this a good thing or a bad thing?

Victor (to Persephone): For Dad, it's a good thing.

Persephone (to Victor): Oh? Why is that? Are they friends?

Vincent (to Persephone & Victor): Hee hee. Oh no. Not in the slightest. She HATES me. Don't worry. It will be FINE; you worry too much.

Persephone (to Victor & Vincent): ... I am suddenly so glad that I'm staying here. Anyway, the agents will be here after tea. Now, I have to run & get scones or face the wrath of Mrs. Esterly. Be safe!

Victor (to Persephone): If I never see you again, know that you were my favorite of my female cousins born in Britannia.

Persephone (to Victor): Heehee. Penelope will be very hurt.

Victor (to Persephone): Hee hee. She's a baby. I don't think she'll care. Take it easy, Seph!

Persephone (to Victor): You, too.

A moment later:

Vincent (to Victor): Stop fretting. I'm not really taking us into anything dangerous. We'll open a portal to Singapore. We'll be there and back before the madame can catch a whiff of whatever that godawful cologne you're wearing.

Victor (to Vincent): I'm not wearing cologne! The brothel owner you were flirting with this morning squirted me with it so she could "find me later." I'm on my third shower! ...I think it's made with skunk essence.

Vincent (to Victor): Hee hee. That sounds like Marianne. Go try shower number four. Your mother will be wondering who on earth I let on the ship.

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

Yukiko (to Fiona): So, who's boat did Mrs. Esterly say we were taking to Shanghai? And, why am I dressed in this ridiculous getup? I can barely reach my weapons in this thing.

Fiona (to Yukiko): She said we're taking an airship. Should be faster than a boat at any rate, and what are you... Pfffft! Ha ha HA! Sorry, your worship. Forgive me of my poor commoner ways. Ha ha ha!

Yukiko (to Fiona): What are you laughing at, Kono yarou?

Fiona (to Yukiko): You in that RIDICULOUS frock. Heh. Let's see if we can find some spots for you to hide a few vitals.

Yukiko (to Fiona): Mrs. Esterly said that we needed to look more presentable & shoved me in it. Help me rip these damn sleeves off... How do people walk in around in this frou frou folderol? And why aren't you wearing anything like it? 

Fiona (to Yukiko): Ha ha ha! Well, I can't rightly say how proper ladies move. Perhaps that's the point... And Mrs. Esterly already knows better than to try to get me into a dress. Heh heh. Besides, do you think they make anything that delicate in my size? :-P

Yukiko (to Fiona): I'm taking this bloody thing off... Apparently, Mrs. Esterly was just having me on.

Fiona (to Yukiko): Better not, lovely. Trust me. It's better to stay on her good side. Mrs. Esterly was the one who recruited me out of Aberdeen, if it tells you something.

Yukiko (to Fiona): Oh... Fine. But the first person to proposition me is getting a knife in the belly.

Fiona (to Yukiko): Ha ha ha! I wouldn't expect anything less. Shall we? I'll say this for Mrs. Esterly, she's a goddamn fine cook.

Yukiko (to Fiona): Oh yes, I definitely agree.

A short time later, at the airship docks, Pier 42; New London, Britannia:

Yukiko (to Fiona): Which ship are we looking for?

Fiona (to Yukiko): She said it's called the Maltese Falcon, and we'll be able to spot it and her captain when we see them.

Vincent (to Fiona & Yukiko): Hello, ladies. Were you sent here by Mrs. Esterly?

Yukiko (to Vincent): Yes, we were.

Vincent (to Yukiko & Fiona): Well then, I am more than pleased to report that I am your ride. I'm Captain Potter; the Falcon is this way.

Yukiko (to Vincent & Fiona): Thank you, Captain Potter. This is Fiona McGillivray & I'm Yukiko Kobayashi.

Fiona (to Vincent): Will the Missus be joining us, Captain?

Vincent (to Fiona & Yukiko): Oh good heavens, no. Poppy is still FAR too pregnant for this kind of fun. My son will be helping us instead. Speaking of which... (to Victor) Are we ready to take off yet, kiddo?

Victor (to Vincent): Almost! Good god Dad! How many times to I have to tell you that hitting the bloody boilers with a wrench doesn't... (to Vincent, Yukiko & Fiona) Oh. Beg your pardon. I didn't realize we'd taken on passengers.

Yukiko (to Victor): Hello, Mist-- Victor. (to Fiona) Stop that infernal grinning, you cow.

Vincent (to Victor): It helps me when I hit the boilers with a wrench. ;-) (to Victor, Fiona & Yukiko) Well then, let's get skyward bound. You can leave your gear here in the hold, ladies. Victor, will you show Ms Kobayashi and Ms McGillivray around?

Yukiko (to Vincent): Heh. Thank you, Captain Potter.

A little while later:

Yukiko (to Victor & Fiona): This is a pretty nice ship your family has here, Mister Victor.

Victor (to Yukiko): Heh. Yeah, the Falcon is my dad's baby. 

Yukiko (to Victor & Fiona): Heh. How long will the trip to Singapore take? Judging by these ship modifications, I would assume you have a portal device onboard which should cut the trip down considerably. Or is the plan to not attract attention?

Victor (to Yukiko): You met my father. Do you think he EVER tries to avoid attention? Besides, the Madame is in the area, and she isn't very keen on western pirates. My father particularly. Probably because he likes to annoy her. (to Fiona) There's another exit hatch right there.

Fiona (to Victor): Heh. Noticed I've been tracking them all, did you?

Victor (to Fiona): Yes, ma'am. Besides, you both work for the ISS, right? I assumed you'd be making contingency plans.

Yukiko (to Victor & Fiona): Heh. Fiona is always making plans. She's the brains of this operation.

Fiona (to Victor & Yukiko): Heh. Someone has to be. This one's more prone to pull out her sword first and interrogate second.

Victor (to Fiona & Yukiko): That would make interrogations rather difficult I'd imagine.

Yukiko (to Fiona): I didn't hear you complain when I stopped that maniac Carver from gutting you open.

Fiona (to Victor & Yukiko): Heh. If I can beg myself out of your company, I'm going to get some shuteye.

Victor (to Yukiko): You're not the agent that gave him that scar, are you? I read the file, but the names had been redacted.

Yukiko (to Victor): ... Oh yes, that was me. He was none to pleased about it, let me tell you. He would have kept coming to but Fi conked him on the head when he started for me. (to Fiona) Want me to wake you with some food in a few hours? You'll probably need it after all that exercise you got last night. ;-P

Fiona (to Yukiko): What? That little romp? :-P Try to have fun without me, you two. (to Victor) Nice to meet you, my fluffy little lad.

Victor (to Fiona): It was very nice to be formally introduced, Ms. McGil-... YIKES!

Fiona (to Victor): Good reflexes. What about... Now where did...?

Victor (to Fiona): Here you are, Ms. McGillivray. Please stop trying to stab me.

Yukiko (to Fiona & Victor): HAHAHA! I am going to tease you about that for months, Fi.

Fiona (to Yukiko): Well, well, well... Lives up to the rumors, doesn't he?

A few moments later:

Yukiko (to Victor): Watch out, Victor, if you're not careful, you'll pique her interest... Not many men survive it. ;-)

Victor (to Yukiko): Ha ha ha! Somehow, I'm not too concerned. I don't really think I'm her type.

Yukiko (to Victor): Heehee. You're probably right... Do you have anything to drink?

Victor (to Yukiko): Heh. I'm sure that we have SOMETHING hanging around. Let's raid the mess.

Yukiko (to Victor): Um, Victor? I believe I owe you an apology. I was a bit rude to you the first time I met & I'm very sorry.

Victor (to Yukiko): Oh. Um... It's alright. I'm sorry Nate was being obnoxious the other night. I'm not sure what got into him.

Yukiko (to Victor): Heehee, he had been regaling me with your prowess with the ladies. He said you're a notorious flirt. Is that true?

Victor (to Yukiko): Heh. I wouldn't say notorious...

Yukiko (to Victor): Oh? What would you say?

Victor (to Yukiko): Heh. I would attempt to say something that didn't make me sound like an asshole. :-P

Yukiko (to Victor): ... Do I make you uncomfortable, Victor? It's this stupid dress, isn't it? Look, this isn't me, at all... Mrs. Esterly insisted that I wear it for some reason. It's very binding.

Victor (to Yukiko): Heh. Honestly, yes. You do make me a bit nervous, but the dress has nothing to do with it. You're a very pretty young woman. And you're more than damned impressive. Besides, you weren't wearing that dress the first two times I met you. Heh. I'd imagine she insisted you wear it so that you and Ms. McGillivray don't look like you're about to murder someone. :-P Hold on for a moment. Heh. I'm not trying anything weird, I swear. Take a deep breath... There. Is that better?

Yukiko (to Victor): Oh my! I could kiss you... This is why I don't dress like this ever, because I like to breathe... Did I say something wrong?

Victor (to Yukiko): Oh... Uh, no. Not at all. I should... I should probably go see if my dad needs any help. Um, just don't do your laces so tight next time. You can stash all kinds of things in your corset if you need to... Uh, that sounds... I mean, my mom used to hide, you know, weapons... Right. Uh, I'm going to... Call if you need something.

Yukiko (to Victor): Oh? Are you sure you have to go? I have no one to keep me company.

Victor (to Yukiko): Heh. Well, if you want company, it wouldn't be polite to refuse. I don't think Dad will need me quite just yet. Besides, I believe I promised to find you a drink.

Yukiko (to Victor): Heh. Yes, I believe you did... So, what do you want to know, Victor? There's clearly something you want to ask me.

Victor (to Yukiko): I'm that obvious, am I? Heh. I never was very good at being subtle. We... We haven't met before, have we? I realize this is kind of a ridiculous thing to ask, but I can't shake this feeling that we've met before.

Yukiko (to Victor): We met a few months ago at Nate's birthday party at Aiden's house. Or do you mean something else?

Victor (to Yukiko): Heh. No, I meant something else... I'm sure it's nothing. Oh! I found rum. Provided it's not something Birdie made... My nose hairs aren't burning, so I think it's safe. Do you drink it straight, or would you like it with hot water and lemon?

Yukiko (to Victor): Straight is fine.

Victor (to Yukiko): Heh. Somehow, that doesn't surprise me. Here you are.

Yukiko (to Victor): Thanks... So, are you always this shy & quiet?

Victor (to Yukiko): Not in the slightest. Usually, I don't have any problems flirting, but I get the distinct impression you'd see right through.

Yukiko (to Victor): I'm honestly not very good at flirting. I've never really seen the need for it... This is some very good liquor. Heh. I usually prefer a more straight forward 'take off your clothes' approach. Which is probably why I'm here on this ship, instead of... Nevermind. This stuff is going to my head. I think I've had enough. Thank you.

Victor (to Yukiko): Really? Heh. Well, that's too bad. I rather liked the direction the conversation was taking...

Yukiko (to Victor): Oh? Which part did you like the best?

Victor (to Yukiko): Oh, um. Heh... I'm not going to lie; the part where you mentioned taking off all your clothes piqued my interest... What did you mean, that it's the reason you're on this ship?

Yukiko (to Victor): Oh... I have a feeling that the problem with the other airship was due to my previous entanglement. I upset several people with my behavior... I uh, refused to consummate my marriage with Tenchi Yashida. My parents thought my getting married would curb my "wild streak". Heh. Fooled them.

Victor (to Yukiko): The fat Yashida boy?! Eww! Oh! Um, excuse me. That was incredibly rude.

Yukiko (to Victor): Heehee. I could probably deal with the fact that he was toad but he was just an awful person. He tried to beat a maid because she laid out the wrong suit for him one morning. I stopped him, but that didn't ingratiate me to him all that much. I'm sorry. I don't know why I'm telling you this... I've never told anyone before.

Victor (to Yukiko): Heh. Well, I've been told bookish bores make good listeners. ;-) I'm just teasing, you know. Sometimes it feels good to be able to say something like that out loud. 

Yukiko (to Victor): Heh. Lots of things are good to say out loud... Do you think it would be much trouble if I slept on the upper deck?

Victor (to Yukiko): No, not at all. You'll have to wait until after we go through the portal. I don't imagine it would be a pleasant trip outside. Heh. There are two bunks in the cabin if you want to get some sleep until then. Speaking of which, I should go relieve my dad at the helm. Good night, Ms Kobayashi.

Yukiko (to Victor): Oh... That's a shame. Good night, Mister Harrison.

Victor (to Yukiko): Well, if you're not tired just yet, I wouldn't mind the company.

Yukiko (to Victor): I'm actually quite wide awake. Besides, I sleep better in the fresh air. It's an old habit from childhood.

Victor (to Yukiko): Excellent! I... uh, I mean, we'll be to the jump point soon enough. So you can get some rest.

A moment later:

Yukiko (to Victor): So, do you have a girlfriend?

Victor (to Yukiko): Um, no. Not at the moment.

Yukiko (to Victor): Oh good. I'd hate to be flirting with someone who's spoken for. ;-)

Vincent (to Victor): Hey, kiddo. Come to takeover for your old man? Why are you... (to Yukiko) Oh. Hello, Ms Kobayashi.

Yukiko (to Vincent & Victor): Hello, Captain Potter. I hope it's alright that I'm on the bridge.

Vincent (to Yukiko): Of course not. It's one of my favorite spots on the ship. Make sure Victor takes good care of her. 

Yukiko (to Vincent): Oh. I will.

Victor (to Vincent): Well shoot. I was going to fly us right into a mountain. Now what will I do with my evening?

Vincent (to Victor & Yukiko): She's all yours, Victor. I'm going to get myself something to eat. Give a holler if you need me. Heh. I'm sure you'll find some way to entertain yourselves. Toodles!

Yukiko (to Victor): Heh... Was your dad just implying that we were going to do something questionable?

Victor (to Yukiko): Yes. I'm afraid so. I'm very sorry. He's not usually... Shit. That's a lie. He's ALWAYS like that.

Yukiko (to Victor): Heehee. Would it be better to prove him right or wrong?

Victor (to Yukiko): Uhhh... Wow. Ha ha ha! You know, for someone who claims to be awful at flirting, you're sure doing a damn good job of it.

Yukiko (to Victor): Oh... I'm sorry, you must bring it out in me for some reason.

Victor (to Yukiko): Heh. Believe me, that wasn't a complaint.

Yukiko (to Victor): ... Oh, good. What's your feelings about kissing people you've only just met?

Victor (to Yukiko): Depends on the person, but in your case, I would say I'm pro-kissing. Very, VERY pro-kissing.

Yukiko (to Victor): I am very glad to hear that.

Victor (to Yukiko): ... Heh. May I kiss you?

Yukiko (to Victor): C'mere...

Victor (to Yukiko): Wow...