Back in the Future, Day 3

In West Piedmont:

Victor (to Persephone): What? Is there something you want, or are you just going to dangle over me smiling like a cat in an aviary?

Persephone (to Victor): I am bored. I'm going to get coffee. Do you want anything? Also, how was your date? You got in rather late.

Victor (to Persephone): Oh. Yes, please. Do you want company? I didn't get in that late. I was back before my curfew. Believe me, I know better than to tempt fate and my mother's wrath by coming in late. How was the boy hunting with Mars?

Persephone (to Victor): Sure, you can tag along, if you'd like. The boy hunting was quite successful. Mostly, for Mars, though. It's the strangest thing. That tall, gawky girl kept having boys come up to her & she kept shooing them away, which just seemed to make them more interested. But, I did end up with a date tonight, if your parents will let me go.

Victor (to Persephone): I think they should. It's not like you've never had a date with a boy before, ant they're trying to be less overprotective. Take full advantage while you can. Mars was the belle of the coffeehouse was she? Heh heh. I'll bet she hated that.

Persephone (to Victor): Yeah, she seemed really annoyed about it. Honestly, it was kinda funny. So, did you have a nice time with Yoyo?

Victor (to Persephone): I did. She forgave me for being a forgetful cad and we watched a movie.

Persephone (to Victor): Oh. Well, that sounds... Frankly, it sounds dull. Nothing interesting happened, at all?

Victor (to Persephone): It wasn't dull! You're... You're trying to get me to give you details, aren't you?

Persephone (to Victor): No... Well yes, maybe just a little detail would be nice. It's not like you don't know things about my escapades.

Victor (to Persephone): Whether I've wanted to know it or not. ... Alright. Don't make that face. It's not like I can keep secrets from you anyway. Let's find someplace to sit. I DO NOT want my parents overhearing me. They've been enough of an embarrassment already.

Persephone (to Victor): Oooh, this is going to be good, I can tell.

A short time later:

Vincent (to Poppy): It looks like you and I are alone, lover. The kids went out to get coffee.

Poppy (to Vincent): Oh, whatever shall we do, honey? Breakfast? Persephone is probably pumping Victor for information about his date. I swear that girl needs to get out more or she's going to end up being one of those middle-aged ladies that reads nothing but romance novels I see in the checkout line.

Vincent (to Poppy): Breakfast sounds divine. Seph is quite the nosy parker. I wonder where on earth she gets that trait from...

Poppy (to Vincent): I have no idea, honey, must be on her mother's side. Besides, I know exactly what they're talking about, so it's not being nosy. It's just being aware.

Vincent (to Poppy): Hee hee. I wasn't insulting you, hun. It's one of the things I love about you. Mostly because I share the trait. :-P Speaking of which, did you dig up any dirt on the two love birds from Yoyo?

Poppy (to Vincent): Heehee, I didn't have to dig, honey. The little man has too much of his father in him, despite his protests to the contrary. All I had to do was remember what you acted like when we first started seeing each other and Voilá!

Vincent (to Poppy): Oh dear. I was afraid you were going to say something like that. I want to huff and complain that they're too young for this sort of carrying on, but I don't suppose they are, are they?

Poppy (to Vincent): No, they're not. Strangely in this one instant they are completely average. Go figure

Vincent (to Poppy): Hee hee. I suppose statistically, something about SOMEONE in this family had to be average. Our Little Man is all grown up... Well, very nearly. He still seems like a baby to me.

Poppy (to Vincent): Wow. I'm impressed, lover. That was one of the only times I think I've ever heard a stereotypical male thing come out of your mouth. Basing his maturity on being sexually active. Really. He may be an "adult", but he still has a lot to learn. Might as well just pin a medal on him or something. The way he's been strutting around here.

Vincent (to Poppy): Hush. I didn't mean that and you know it! Of course he's still a kid, but he's on the long slog to adulthood now, hun. Believe it or not, I still think of him as that sullen little boy we had to pull out of elementary school.

Poppy (to Vincent): I can't believe you didn't notice. Or did you notice and you were just ignoring it?

Vincent (to Poppy): Heh. I think I was rather ignoring it. :-P Hee hee. I think I'm not the only one who isn't ready for the Little Man to grow up. Come here, hun.

Poppy (to Vincent): It's true, lover, I don't like it one bit. I know I always said that one was enough, but do you think it was fair to him? Dear god, is this what that whole empty nest thing feels like?

Vincent (to Poppy): Heh. I don't know, lover. I worried the same thing when we pulled him out of school.

Poppy (to Vincent): I know, honey, I did too... Who the bloody hell is knocking on our door? Are you expecting anyone?

Vincent (to Poppy): Not I, hun.

Poppy (to Vincent): Well, I'll go check, honey. We'll have to postpone our worries about our status as terrible parents for later.

Vincent (to Poppy): Heh. We did fine, lover.

Poppy (to Nathaniel): Well, hello there. Are you looking for Victor or Persephone? I'm sorry to say you just missed them. They're down at the café.

Nathaniel (to Poppy): Hello, Mrs. Robinson! I think I may have the wrong place. I'm looking for either Paul Jones or Vincent Potter.

Poppy (to Nathaniel): Heh. Cute. If you're here to talk to us about our personal relationship with our lord & savior. We're full up on crazy here. Go peddle your god talk somewhere else, honey or is there some new way Pastor Nate & family would like to torment us?

Nathaniel (to Poppy): Oh my god, NO! No, I've had enough of the father, son and holy ghost for three lifetimes. I'm not sure how else to say this, but, Paul, Vincent that is, is my uncle. And I... I kind of need someplace to stay.

Poppy (to Nathaniel): OH! Oh my! Come in, honey. This is something of a surprise. I'm sorry. Where are my manners? I'm Poppy. I'm your aunt. 

Nathaniel (to Poppy): I'm Nathaniel, Nate. You're my... You're my *aunt*? I thought Vincent was...

Poppy (to Nathaniel): Oh, that old chestnut, honey? When are they going to get the distinction between queer & gay? It's the 21st century. (to Vincent) Honey, we have a visitor.

Nathaniel (to Poppy): I'm very sorry. My parents said... Well, they have some very old fashioned ideas. They're idiots.

Vincent (to Poppy): So I see. (to Nathaniel) Hello, hun. If you're one of the poor souls looking for Persephone, she should be back soon.

Nathaniel (to Vincent): No, actually, I was looking for you. I'm your nephew, Nate. I'm Peter's son.

Vincent (to Nathaniel): You're what?! Good heavens!

Poppy (to Vincent & Nathaniel): Now, that I'm looking at you both, I can see the resemblance.

Nathaniel (to Poppy & Vincent): I needed someplace to go, and I came across an article about my grandfather and, uh, Vincent online. I thought I might... Well, it doesn't matter. I didn't realize you had gone respectable with a wife and all.

Poppy (to Nathaniel): Heh. You think we're respectable. That's a lark.

Vincent (to Poppy): Hee hee. That's because he doesn't know us very well, lover.

Poppy (to Nathaniel & Vincent): Clearly, you two have some catching up to do. I'll be in the practice room, if you need me, lover.

Vincent (to Poppy): I'll pine for you while you're gone, sweetness. (to Nathaniel) Calm down, hun. We're not going to turn you out. Do you want something to eat?

Nathaniel (to Vincent): Yes, please. I haven't eaten since last night. I gotta say, you're half what I expected & half not what I expected at all.

Vincent (to Nathaniel): Hee hee. Well, I hope you don't mind if I take that as a compliment. What brings you to West Piedmont?

Nathaniel (to Vincent): Dad wanted to send me to one of those camps after they found pics on my phone of me and my boyfriend.

Vincent (to Nathaniel): Oh good God... Are you alright?

Nathaniel (to Vincent): No. I mean, yes. I mean, they didn't hit me or anything, but they said a lot of things... Dad's a pastor, you know, so he was worried about what the congregation would say, and...

Vincent (to Nathaniel): It's alright, hun. You don't have to explain if you can't. Believe me, I understand.

Nathaniel (to Vincent): Thank you, Uncle Vincent.

Vincent: Good God. I do believe this is what would be known as karma. (to Nathaniel) You're more than welcome to stay here as long as you need. The quarters are going to be a bit tight with Victor & Seph here, but I'm sure that we'll manage. Here you go, kiddo. Eat up.

Several hours later:

Victor (to Persephone): Good heavens, Seph! How many more times are we going to go over this? Heh. Are you EVER going to drop this?

Persephone (to Victor): Well, why'd did you have to say that to Garrett? I mean, it was our first coffee date.

Victor (to Persephone): I'm sorry! How many times do I have to say I'm sorry! I didn't know he was the Coffee Date Boy! I thought he was... Um... Who the hell is that on our couch?

Persephone (to Victor): I have no idea.

Victor (to Poppy): Um, Mom? Mom! There's some random guy on our couch!

Poppy (to Victor): Honey, it's okay. Calm down. He's, well, he's family. Sort of. 

Nathaniel (to Victor): Hey. Benny Hill. Can you turn the volume down by at least half? Some of us didn't get any sleep last night.

Persephone (to Victor & Nathaniel): What's a Benny Hill?

Victor (to Persephone): I have no bloody idea. (to Poppy) Uh... OK. What's going on?

Nathaniel (to Victor & Persephone): Benny Hill is a... Never mind. You two must be Persephone and Victor.

Poppy (to Victor): Nathaniel is your cousin from your dad's biological brother. He's having a rough time of it & came looking for help. Honey, you can have your bed back. We've set up a bed in the study for Persephone. Nate's going to crash on the couch.

Persephone (to Nathaniel): Yes... You're another cousin? Wow. Is there a closet somewhere where estranged relatives are hiding?

Victor (to Poppy): Oh. Well that explains it. (to Persephone) Heh. Knowing this family? Probably.

Nathaniel (to Persephone): There are a whole gaggle of Joneses out there. Though, we seem to have a hard time staying in the closet.

Persephone (to Nathaniel): Ooh, I've been known to find boys in closets myself. Of course, I think you mean something completely different.

Victor (to Nathaniel): I'm sorry I woke you up. You caught me a bit off guard. (to Persephone) You only find boys in closets that you put there in the first place.

Nathaniel (to Victor): It's fine. And here I thought your dad and I were the only two outcasts in the fam.

Victor (to Nathaniel): I don't know anyone from Dad's side of the family. It's kind of hard to be cast out of a family that doesn't know you exist.

Nathaniel (to Victor): No, no. I mean... You are gay, aren't you?

Victor (to Nathaniel): Um, no. Why would you think that?

Nathaniel (to Victor): Sorry. But, between the suit and the fake accent and everything...

Persephone (to Victor & Nathaniel): Victor & I grew up in London, you prat. He's not gay. He's had sex with a girl & everything... Oops.

Victor (to Persephone): Christ almighty, Seph!

Persephone (to Victor): Sorry. Me & my big mouth.

Poppy (to Persephone, Victor & Nathaniel): Well, that answers that question. Alright, that's enough! Everyone to their corners, right now or I swear I will slap you all (to Victor) It's okay, honey. I already figured as much.

Victor (to Poppy): Oh god...

Poppy (to Persephone, Victor & Nathaniel): I am going to get myself some aspirin. You all have given me a headache. Please try to be nice.

Nathaniel (to Victor, Persephone & Poppy): OK. OK. I'm sorry! It's been a long day. (to Victor) I'm sorry, Victor. I didn't mean any offense by it.

Victor (to Nathaniel): I didn't take any offense to it. Why would I care if you think I'm gay? I'm going to get something to drink. (to Persephone) Want anything, Seph?

Persephone (to Victor): I'll have whatever you're having. (to Poppy) I'm sorry, Aunt Poppy. We'll try better to behave.

Poppy (to Persephone): Yes, please try honey and if you decide to kill each other, just do it quietly. I really can't be havin' with this nonsense.

Persephone: Yikes! It's so not good when Auntie goes all East Garden. (to Poppy) Yes, ma'am.

Victor (to Persephone): Here you go, Seph. I made tea. (to Nathaniel) I made you a cuppa as well, if you want one.

Nathaniel (to Victor): How very British of you.

Persephone (to Victor): Thank you, Victor. (to Nathaniel) So, what's your story? Why are you here, really?

Nathaniel (to Victor & Persephone): My dad found out I had a boyfriend and was gonna send me to one of the family camps for reprogramming. I didn't want to go.

Victor (to Nathaniel): What family camps? What are you talking about?

Nathaniel (to Victor): Grandpa's pray out the gay camps. Most of them have been discredited and disbanded over the years but there's a few of them hanging on for dear life in super enlightened areas like good ol' Mississippi.

Victor (to Nathaniel): Your grandfather has brainwashing camps? That sounds, uh, that sounds creepy.

Persephone (to Nathaniel): And? There's obviously more to it. You can't kid a kidder.

Nathaniel (to Victor): He's your grandfather too. (to Persephone) What? Being brainwashed by your family isn't enough?

Persephone (to Nathaniel): No. You're hiding something. You wouldn't have come all this way to find long lost family just for that. You had to have known it would come to that, eventually. Look, you can trust us, honest. We may be strangers but we are family. It's fine if you don't tell us, but Aunt Poppy is very good at finding out lies & secrets. It's uncanny.

Nathaniel (to Victor & Persephone): God almighty! You two are suspicious bastards, you know that? Honestly, I just need someplace to stay for a little bit. I'll be out of your hair soon enough.

Persephone (to Nathaniel): It's a Longfellow family trait, we come by it honest.

Nathaniel (to Persephone): Longfellow? So you're related to Mrs. Tiny Terror in the other room, rather than to the Jones tribe, huh?

Persephone (to Nathaniel): Yes, she's my Da's sister.

Nathaniel (to Persephone): I should have known a single family couldn't possibly contain this much fabulousness. (to Victor) Are you gonna say anything, Vic, or are you just gonna sit and stare?

Victor (to Nathaniel): Nope. I'm just going to let you talk.

Persephone (to Nathaniel): Hmmm, fabulous you say. I think you're trying a little too hard. So, do you really like boys or did you do it to upset daddy? And, where are you planning on going after this if we're just a stop on the piss off daddy train?

Nathaniel (to Persephone): I... I don't have to explain myself to you! You don't wanna believe I'm gay? FINE! I don't give a shit about your opinion. As soon as I have enough money, I am out of here. This town is too small for my tastes anyway! Whatever. Believe whatever damn fool thing you wanna believe about me. It doesn't matter.

Victor (to Persephone & Nathaniel): Shhhhh! Shhhh. Quiet! I don't know about you two, but I don't want my irate mother back out here.

Persephone (to Victor): Sorry. (to Nathaniel) Yes, it does or you wouldn't be here. I'm sorry I upset you.

Nathaniel (to Persephone): It's... It's fine. I'm just tired. I was on a bus for almost 24 hours yesterday.

Persephone (to Nathaniel): A bus? Oh right, a bus.

Nathaniel (to Persephone): Yes. A bus. It's the transportation of us poor masses. I'm assuming they have those in England.

Victor (to Nathaniel): We'll let you get to sleep then. (to Persephone) Come on, Seph. Come get all your clothes out of my room.

Persephone (to Nathaniel): Oh yes, they're kind of like trolleys. I had just forgotten. I must be sleepy myself. (to Victor) Fine. I didn't bring that much with me. Should only take a minute.

Nathaniel (to Persephone): I think he wants to gossip with you about me in private.

Victor (to Persephone): Come on.

Persephone (to Nathaniel): Good night. (to Victor) I'm coming, I'm coming.

Victor (to Persephone): Wow. My dad's family seems to be made up of charmers, doesn't it?

Persephone (to Victor): Yep, it's no wonder that he left. That boy is hiding something, I can feel it.

Victor (to Persephone): Oh, he was totes lying about something. Heh. Don't worry. Either you or my mom will get it out of him.

Persephone (to Victor): It'll probably be your mom. She's much better at it & has been doing it longer. I wouldn't be surprised if she figured it out based on the color of socks he was wearing or something insane like that.

Victor (to Persephone): Oh. Oh god... I'll bet my parents are going to want to have a LONG conversation with me about Yoyo tomorrow. Shit.

Persephone (to Victor): Oh god, I'm so sorry about that. It's my fault, I could tell them that I made it up.

Victor (to Persephone): Heh. True, but you're like a terrier after a rat when someone is lying to you. And don't worry about spilling the beans. I was going to have to talk to them about it sooner or later.

Persephone (to Victor): Really? Grunt! I'd never tell my parents about that sort of thing, They'd skin-- boy, look at the time, I should go to bed. It's been a long day & I'm suddenly very tired.

Victor (to Persephone): Uh huh. You know I'm going to ask you about that later, right?

Persephone (to Victor): Hmmm? I'm sorry I must have dozed off for a minute. I really should get to bed. Good night, Victor.

Victor (to Persephone): Good night.

Back in the Future, Day 2

In West Piedmont:

Poppy (to Persephone): Good morning, Persephone dear. Yukiko & I were just sitting here having some tea after her lesson. Did we wake you?

Persephone (to Yukiko & Poppy): Oh, not at all. Is there any more tea or coffee? Good morning, Yoyo… Wait. What kind of lessons, Auntie?

Poppy (to Persephone): Sit down, I'll pour you some tea & get you some breakfast.

Yukiko (to Persephone): Ummm, your aunt has been gracious enough to give me sword lessons in exchange for Nipponese lessons.

Persephone (to Yukiko): You're learning how to sword fight!?! Wow. Does Victor know? Wait. Of course, he knows. You're not planning on becoming a pirate, too? Are you? I mean, it would be fine, I guess, but you're not, right?

Yukiko (to Persephone): I hadn't really thought about it. Besides, I'm terrible at it. Your Aunt is getting a better deal out of this arrangement.

Poppy (to Persephone): She's being modest. She's quite good. I think she'd give you a run for your money, Seph dear. Here you are. Breakfast and some hot tea. (to Yukiko & Persephone) I've got some errands to run so I'll see you two ladies later. Play nice!

Persephone (to Poppy): I always play nice, Auntie... except when I don't. (to Yukiko) So, when I'm done with breakfast. I'd like to see just how good you are with a sword, if you don't mind?

Yukiko (to Poppy): Thank you, Poppy. (to Persephone) If you insist. But honestly, I'm terrible. Your aunt was just being nice.

Persephone (to Yukiko): Oh yes, I insist.

A few minutes later:

Poppy (to Victor): Victor honey, you may want to get yourself to the practice room. It seems your cousin wants to check out Yoyo's sword skills

Victor (to Poppy): Hmmm? What? Oh! I overslept. I'm up. I'm awake. What did you say about my cousin and a sword?

Poppy (to Victor): Late night chatting with Seph, honey? Anyway, she & Yoyo just went off to the practice room. She apparently wants to see just how well Yoyo can handle a sword. Her modesty may be her undoing with your cousin... and well, she may kick her butt.

Victor (to Poppy): Uh oh. Hee hee hee. Oh! I shouldn't laugh at that. Seph's going to be very annoyed. Thanks, Mom.

Poppy (to Victor): Heh. I just thought you might want to put an end to it before there's real bloodshed. I'm off to the store. I'll be back.

Meanwhile:

Persephone (to Yukiko): Would you bloody well hold still? How are we supposed to sword fight with you leaping around like that?

Yukiko (to Persephone): See! I told you I'm awful. I can't even stand still enough to let you whack at me with that thing.

Persephone (to Yukiko): Stop putting me on! Do you know kung fu or something?

Yukiko (to Persephone): No! Besides, that's from Qin, I'm from Nippon. Despite stories, not all asians know martial arts, you know?

Persephone (to Yukiko): Well then, come on and just take your position!

Yukiko (to Persephone): Oh, alright... Just don't beat me too badly.

Victor (to Yukiko & Persephone): Yikes! Easy ladies! Would it stop the fight if I told you you're both adept at swordplay and lovely to boot? (to Persephone) Seph... Don't point that at me! I'm unarmed and you hate wearing all black! They'll never let you wear red to the funeral.

Yukiko (to Victor): Thank goodness, Victor! Could you please tell Seph how awful I am & that I don't want to fight her?

Persephone (to Victor): Haha, very funny. You have terrible timing.

Victor (to Persephone): I think I have very good timing. I don't want to spend all morning getting blood off the floor. Besides, Yoyo doesn't want to fight you.

Yukiko (to Victor): Thank you. (to Persephone) See, I was trying to tell you that repeatedly. I don't really want to fight you.

Persephone (to Victor): I wasn't going to hurt her. I just wanted to see what she's learned. I mean, I feel a-- Wait. What aren't you telling me?

Victor (to Persephone): Take a guess whose blood it was last time we had to clean it up. She hasn't got a scratch on her. Yoyo is very modest.

Persephone (to Victor): Hmmm, so she's good, huh? Better than me?

Victor (to Persephone): Oh no you don't. I am not answering that question. That question is a trap, and my head aches more than enough right now.

Persephone (to Victor): Well, darn. I'm sorry your head still hurts. I can go fix you up some of that tea you like. (to Yukiko) I'm sorry, Yoyo. I shouldn't have been pushing the issue... It's just I kinda feel like I'm being replaced. I know, I'm not but, you know.

Yukiko (to Persephone): No one could ever replace you, Persephone. You're too weird. :-)

Persephone (to Yukiko): HAHA, fair enough. (to Victor) I'll go fix you up some tea. Go rest your weary head.

Victor (to Persephone): It's not THAT weary. I just have a headache. Thank you, though.

Yukiko (to Victor): Is your head still hurting from the crossing? It's never lasted this long normally, has it?

Victor (to Yukiko): No. This is unusual. Typically, I just get headaches if the time stream changes too drastically, or I overexert myself. But it was an odd crossing last night.

Yukiko (to Victor): Here, give me your right hand. There's a pressure point in it, that should help to relieve your headache. Could something be wrong with the portals you're opening?

Victor (to Yukiko): I don't know. I don't think so. I haven't noticed anything odd any of the other times and usually, the more times I've been someplace, the easier it is to go there. Oh... Oh. Wow. That helped immensely! You're amazing! Thank you.

Yukiko (to Victor): Heehee. I'm glad it helped. I guess, you'll keep me around for a bit longer, huh? :-P

Victor (to Yukiko): Heh. That's my intention.

Yukiko (to Victor): That's good. I should probably go, so you can spend sometime with your cousin. I don't want her to feel like a third wheel.

Victor (to Yukiko): You're right. I'll see you later. 

Persephone (to Victor): Here's your tea. I'm sorry your head still hurts.

Yukiko (to Victor): See you later! (to Persephone) Bye Persephone, I'm sure I'll see you later, too. If not, I hope you have a nice visit.

Persephone (to Yukiko): Thank you.

Victor (to Persephone): Hmmm? Oh! Thank you, Seph. It's starting to feel better. So, what do you want to do today? So long as we "behave like civilized human beings and not dreadful monkeys," we have permission to wander West Piedmont.

Persephone (to Victor): Oh, if you're feeling up to it. I'd love to go see one of those moving picture thingies & maybe, just some wandering... That was awfully nice of Yoyo to skedaddle. She didn't have to. I suppose I have to get used to her being around. You know, since you're very clearly smitten with her.

Victor (to Persephone): I'm not *very clearly* smitten with her! I think it's a normal amount, and well within smitten perimeters. We can see a movie, if you'd like, and we should probably stop over and see Mars. She'll want to say hello. She can tell us if we look too outlandish for this side. I caused a mild sensation wandering around at the college one day.

Persephone (to Victor): Uh huh... And, where is Yoyo staying these days? Back on campus or with your Aunt & Uncle? :-D Heehee, what on earth were you wearing?

Victor (to Persephone): 1: Yoyo is staying on campus, as she was before, smart arse. 2: I wasn't wearing anything shocking. Just my usual kit. People thought I was doing some sort of, what was it, Victorian performance art installation and kept following me. It's not like I raided my father's closet or something.

Persephone (to Victor): Heehee, you should have given them a tour of campus & then asked them for a fiver.

Victor (to Persephone): Ha ha ha! Damn. I didn't think of that. I just kept telling them they were nickey and to bugger off. Which makes zero sense on this side. One obnoxious haybag kept trying to get me to curse, because it "sounded so classy." 

Persephone (to Victor): Heehee, well if I'm with you the next time it happens, I've got some very choice things to say to them.

Victor (to Persephone): At least if we look ridiculous this time around, I know we'll make money doing it. Heh. I've missed you, Seph.

Persephone (to Victor): I've missed you, too. It's been terribly grunt without you around... and not to mention, dull.

Victor (to Persephone): Missed breaking into the Tower of London and having terrifying automatons stalk you in the streets, have you?

Persephone (to Victor): Well, not that part so much, but the other stuff, yes. I mean, sure I can get other people to do silly things with me, but it's just not the same. So, you really don't mind hanging out with me on our own? If you wanted Yoyo to come along, it would be fine with me. I mean it. You seemed a little disappointed that she left.

Victor (to Persephone): I was, but somehow, despite being so very clearly smitten, I think I'll survive your company. :-P Come on. Let's go see the Martian... Oops. I promised I wouldn't call her that anymore. Let's go visit Mars. 

Persephone (to Victor): So, we can't call her Martian, anymore? Well, where's the fun in that? 

Victor (to Persephone): No. She feels a bit like a freak because she's so smart, so I said I wouldn't call her Martian anymore as it upsets her.

Victor (to Persephone): You can ditch the corset and wear one of those disturbingly short skirts you enjoy so much.

Persephone (to Victor): Goodbye, corset. Hello, mini skirt. I like it here. I still can't believe this is considered normal dress over here. It would cause such a scandal back home.

Victor (to Persephone): Heh. And I don't know how "normal" that dress would be considered, but it certainly won't cause a scandal. Stares, yes.

Persephone (to Victor): Stares I can handle. Heh. I actually, I could probably handle a little scandal as well. But, I'll behave.

Victor (to Persephone): You say that now. Ready? We have to take the long way to my aunt and uncle's. They have an inhibitor field I know about.

Persephone (to Victor): Well, I don't want you to suffer too much more on this side. It sounds like you've had your fair share. Besides, I want to make sure I can come and visit again.

Victor (to Persephone): Heh. Thank you. I'd like you to visit as well.

Persephone (to Victor): I do what I can. :-P

A short time later:

Victor (to Mouse): Hello, Aunt Mouse. We were coming to visit Mars. Is she home?

Mouse (to Victor): Hey there, kiddo! She's in the backyard with Gabe. He got a toy stuck up a tree. She was trying to help get it down.

Victor (to Mouse): Heh. How on earth did he get a toy stuck in a tree? 

Mouse (to Victor): I have no idea how Gabe manages to do half the things he does. He's sneaky. Have fun. (to Persephone) Nice seeing you again, Persephone.

Victor (to Mouse): We'll see ourselves around back. Thank you.

Persephone (to Mouse): It's nice to see you too.

Victor (to Marlena): Um, Mars? Do you need help or are you hanging upside down for recreational reasons?

Marlena (to Victor): Oh, hey. It's a little from column a & a little from column b, I think. Gabe & I made a toy rocket for one of his action figures and it landed in this tree. I was looking for it when I realized it might be on the ground somewhere, so I was just hanging here and looking for it. (to Persephone) Hey Seph! Nice to see you.

Persephone (to Marlena): Hey yourself, Marti-- Mars. Nice tree you got there.

Victor (to Marlena): Is this it?

Marlena (to Victor): You found it! Wow. I had the trajectory completely wrong. I guess that's what I get for following the directions on the box.

Victor (to Marlena): It looks like one of your fins came a little loose. Probably created drag, which changed your course... What?

Marlena (to Victor): Heehee, you're not as dumb as you look, shortie. :-P

Persephone (to Marlena & Victor): HAHA.

Victor (to Marlena): Please. I've been flying an airship since before I could see over the helm. I'll leave actual rocket science to you, brainiac.

Marlena (to Victor): Heehee, I figured as much. I was just giving you a hard time. What's going on? You two are obviously up to something.

Victor (to Marlena): We were going to go to a movie, and then wander around the school campus for a bit. Seph has exhausted the well of eligible bachelors in all of New London. Clearly we are a pair of debased deviants.

Persephone (to Victor & Marlena): And, we are not up to anything, I'll have you know.

Marlena (to Victor & Persephone): Okay, okay. I'm sorry if I sounded accusatory. If you're going boy shopping, you should definitely go to my mom's coffeehouse. It's right off campus & it's perfect for that sort of thing. And, it's her day off so unless she gets called in, you'll be free from the mom glare.

Persephone (to Marlena): Ooh, that sounds perfect. So, Mars, do we look okay for wandering the streets of your fair city? Not too odd?

Victor (to Marlena): I already know what you're going to say about what I'm wearing, so save your breath. I'm not changing.

Marlena (to Victor): You look fine, you always do. You're one of the most dapper men I've ever seen. Calm down. (to Persephone) You, on the other hand, look like you have escaped from a circus. What on earth are you wearing?

Persephone (to Marlena): The bustle overskirt with the mini dress is too much, isn't it? I liked the patterns together.

Marlena (to Persephone): Just take off the overskirt & put on a jacket or a sweater. Come up to my room. I think I've got something that'll work.

Persephone (to Marlena): Well, it certainly explains the looks I was getting. I have so much to learn about this place.

Victor (to Marlena & Persephone): I have no idea what any of that means.

Marlena (to Victor): Heehee, it's girl talk, I guess.

Victor (to Marlena): It's like some strange kind of code. (to Persephone) Good heavens, Seph! If your mom could see you in that... Ha ha ha!

Persephone (to Victor): What's wrong with it? Ma would probably have a heartattack & then Da would ground me.

Victor (to Persephone): Nothing is wrong with it. You look fine. Gilbert would probably swoon.

Persephone (to Marlena): Gilbert would swoon if you showed him a bare ankle. He's a boring toad.

Marlena (to Victor): I think you're going to have your hands full with her dressed like that. Maybe, I should get her some pants to wear, instead. (to Victor & Persephone) What in the world is a Gilbert?

Victor (to Marlena): Do you think she'd be less of a handful in trousers? A Gilbert is Seph's future amphibian husband. (to Persephone) Yikes! Ha ha ha! Don't throw things! It's unbecoming and not ladylike in the slightest.

Marlena (to Persephone & Victor): Okay, okay! I've done all I can for you. Stop destroying my room! Go out & terrorize some other folks.

Persephone (to Marlena): Sorry. Thank you for the help with the clothes.

Victor (to Marlena): We're sorry, Mars. Thank you for your help. (to Persephone) Come on, Seph, let's go terrorize other parts of West Piedmont.

Marlena (to Persephone): You're welcome. Have fun!

Persephone (to Victor): Alright, let's go.

A few hours later:

Yukiko (to Marlena): Hey Mars, you busy?

Marlena (to Yukiko): Sort of, but not really. What's up?

Yukiko (to Marlena): You wanna come over and watch a movie or something? Victor's off spending the day with Persephone.

Marlena (to Yukiko): Yeah, I know. They came over here to say hello and terrorize me a bit. I could probably be talked into hanging out with you. What's going on, Yoyo? You sound a little upset. Is it family stuff?

Yukiko (to Marlena): No, it's not that. I'm being silly & I shouldn't be upset about it. But, Victor & I had been planning to have a date night tonight, and I think he forgot with Persephone being here & everything. It's no big deal, really. He just didn't even mention it to me at all. So, I just thought some company would be great.

Marlena (to Yukiko): Oh, I'm sorry, Yoyo. I'm sure it just slipped his mind. I'll bet when he remembers he's going to feel terrible about it. I'll be over in a little bit. (to Victor) Hey, Mister Fancypants... By any chance, are you forgetting something?

Victor (to Persephone): No... Seph! That's not how you answer it! Just give it back, please? Thank you. (to Marlena) Mars? Are you still there? What did you say?

Marlena (to Victor): I said, by any chance are you forgetting something? Something that was supposed to be happening tonight, maybe?

Victor (to Marlena): Tonight? I don't think so. What's tonight... Oh! Oh my God! Yoyo and I were supposed to go out! Oh shit. I am a huge jerk. With the whole dampening field thing it totes slipped my mind... Was she terribly mad?

Marlena (to Victor): No, you're not & she's fine. A bit disappointed. That's why I'm calling. Look, I'm going to go over and hang out with her. And, I was figuring that the boy shopping is more my speed, so I'll go with Seph & do girlie things. While you could come over here & surprise Yoyo. It may not be your fancy date night, but I know she'd be happy to see you. What do you think?

Victor (to Marlena): Oh my God! I think you're a better cousin than I deserve. Thank you! Will, um, will you do me one more favor?

Marlena (to Victor): If I can. What is it?

Victor (to Marlena): Will you see if you can convince Seph to stay an extra couple of days? I think there might be something odd at the inn.

Marlena (to Victor): Oh okay. Have you talked to her about it? I mean, if she won't listen to you about it, why do you think she'll listen to me?

Victor (to Marlena): No, not yet. I kind of freaked her out a little last night, and I didn't want to upset her if it's nothing. I wanted to ask my parents about it first, but they've been out of the house all day, doing God only knows what.

Marlena (to Victor): Probably just trying not to go stir-crazy, knowing them. I'll give it a try. Text me when you're heading to Yoyo's dorm.

Victor (to Marlena): I will. Thanks again, Mars. (to Persephone) Heh. I leave you alone for 10 minutes, and you've got half the coffeehouse mooning over you.

Persephone (to Victor): What's wrong with that? Apparently, they know an interesting, charming lady when they see one. Plus, I think it's the accent. What did the martian want? I hope it's something good.

Victor (to Persephone): I didn't say it was a bad thing. Mars was going to go "boy shopping" with you, if you don't mind.

Persephone (to Victor): Yeah, Mars would probably be a better partner for boy shopping, anyway. We don't want people thinking we're a couple or that you're my gay best friend, like last time.

Victor (to Persephone):  I forgot I told Yoyo I would spend tonight with her. Apparently, she was a bit disappointed about it.

Persephone (to Victor): Ooo, bad boyfriend, no biscuits-- I mean, cookies for you. I'm just teasing. I'll be fine with Mars. I promise.

Victor (to Persephone): Thank you! I feel rotten about the whole thing. I'll text Mars that I'm going to see Yoyo. Do you want me to wait until she arrives before I leave, or am I cramping your style? :-P

Persephone (to Victor): Get out of here, you! Go see your girlfriend & tell Mars to meet me here. I'm trying for an even dozen phone numbers before I decide to call it quits for the evening & I only have one so far.

Victor (to Persephone): As your gay best friend I say bend over in that top a little more. You'll have half a dozen more before Mars gets here.

Persephone (to Victor): Ooo, good idea. See you later!

Victor (to Persephone): Thank you again! I'll see you shortly! (to Marlena) Seph is happy to hand out with you tonight. She's at your mom's coffeehouse preying on the lads of West Piedmont. I'm headed to Yoyo's now.

Marlena (to Victor): Okay, I'll make an excuse to be outside in a couple minutes, then we can swap, you can head back in my place. Sound good?

Victor (to Marlena): Yes! Thank you. Do I have to sneak in? We always did before, but I wasn't sure if that was due to rules or dramatic effect.

Marlena (to Victor): I think you only have to sneak in, if it's after 10pm. That's when there aren't supposed to be visitors entering the dorms. (to Yukiko) Hey, I need to take this call. It's my Dad. I'll be outside. Keep watching the movie. I'll be right back. Okay?

Yukiko (to Marlena): Yeah, sure. Tell your Dad I said hello.

Victor (to Marlena): Ah. Half due to the rules and half due to dramatic effect, then. Good to know. See you soon!

A short time later:

Victor (to Marlena): Thank you again, Mars. Have fun and good luck with Seph. She's in a good mood tonight.

Marlena (to Victor): No worries. That's what friends are for. I'm sure it'll be fine. I have bail money in the bottom of my boot, just in case.

Victor (to Marlena): Heh. Don't worry, she's not having THAT good a time. Um, I don't think. Later!

Marlena (to Victor): See ya!

Yukiko (to Marlena): Is everything alright at home? Hurry up, you're missing the best part. (to Victor) Oh, Victor! What are you doing here? I wasn't expecting you. I thought you were out with your cousin.

Victor (to Yukiko): I know. I was. I hope you don't mind; Mars and I plotted to switch places to surprise you. I am SO terribly sorry I forgot that we were supposed to go out this evening. It slipped my mind.

Yukiko (to Victor): It's okay. I was trying not be upset about it. I know you don't get to see Persephone very much & she's your best friend. But, I'm very glad you came to surprise me. It was very sweet of you.

Victor (to Yukiko): It's not really a very good excuse. I'm sorry again. Will you let me make it up to you? Mars deserves most of the credit. She called to remind me where I was supposed to be, and offered to hang out with Seph.

Yukiko (to Victor): Heh. I don't care how you came to be here. I'm just glad you remembered, even if it was due to Mars reminding you. I've just been missing you. I mean, I know we see each other all of the tie, but it seems like there's always someone else around. I was looking forward to being alone with you. I'm sorry if I'm being a clingy girlfriend.

Victor (to Yukiko): You're not clingy. You're not clingy in the slightest. Heh. Ask Seph about Gilbert if you want to hear a tale of clingy woe. And I'm certainly never, EVER going to complain about you wanting to be alone with me. I'm sorry I upset you.

Yukiko (to Victor): Oh well, good. It really is okay. Honest. I don't know if I should tell you this, but I was a little nervous that you had changed your mind about me. After the last time we were alone together and well, you know. 

Victor (to Yukiko): Heh. Yeah... I mean, no! Of course I didn't change my mind about you. It, uh, it didn't change your mind about me, did it?

Yukiko (to Victor): Of course not! Heh. We're being a bit silly, aren't we? I'm sorry. I think I've been alone with my thoughts a little too long these days. It's making me second guess everything.

Victor (to Yukiko): Heh. I think we might be acting a bit silly, but we're allowed a pass. I'm sorry things have been so complicated lately. And I'm certainly not leaving you alone with your thoughts tonight. So, date night? What were you and Mars watching?

Yukiko (to Victor): A French film, Brotherhood of the Wolf. It's good eye candy. We watch it whenever one of us needs something to distract us.

Victor (to Yukiko): Woah. I should say so. Are you sure that guy with the tattoos is actually a human being? No one is that good looking.

Yukiko (to Victor): Heehee, I can think of at least one person I think it is that good looking & I'm fairly certain he's human. :-P

Victor (to Yukiko): Heh. Oh, I'm human alright. Which is why I don't look like *that* in a loincloth. Shall we keep watching the movie, or do you want me to try to make up for being a terrible boyfriend?

Yukiko (to Victor): Heehee. You keep saying things like that I'm going to make you put on a loincloth just so I can judge for myself.

Victor (to Yukiko): Heh. If you want. It wouldn't be the strangest thing I've ever worn. Seph insisted I put on one of her dresses, once. Complete with bustle, bonnet and shawl.

Yukiko (to Victor):  Heehee. Well, there goes my plans for the evening. :-P

Victor (to Yukiko): Heh. Well, there are easier ways to get me out of my suit, you know.

Yukiko (to Victor): Oh? Do those ways fall under the category of making up for being a terrible boyfriend? And, just so you know I don't think you're a terrible boyfriend. Forgetful maybe but not terrible. :-P

Victor (to Yukiko): I can't believe I forgot! I was looking forward to it. I think last night knocked more sense out of me than I thought.

Yukiko (to Victor): Stop beating yourself up about it. How about you pick out a movie & then we curl up together on the couch?

Victor (to Yukiko): Heh. Yes, ma'am! Is Ghostbusters any good? I know my dad loves it, but I don't think I've ever actually seen it.

Yukiko (to Victor): I liked it, Mars had to explain a bunch of it to me since it's from the 1980's and everything seemed a bit weird to me. If you don't understand something, just ask me. I think I can explain it, now.

Victor (to Yukiko): Hee hee. A movie and a lesson. Sounds good to me.

Yukiko (to Victor): Do you want any popcorn or something to drink?

Victor (to Yukiko): No thank you. Just your company is enough.

Yukiko (to Victor): Oh my... You know, all you had to say was that you had popcorn at the movies earlier. But, that certainly works, too. 

Victor (to Yukiko): Heh heh. I could have, but where would the fun in that be? You don't let me get away with anything, do you?

Yukiko (to Victor): I could, but I think you like the fact that I don't. If I did, I'd be just like one of those vapid girls you used to see. Besides, you don't have to be all smooth with me. I'm not going anywhere.

Victor (to Yukiko): It wasn't a critique. And you're right. I enjoy the fact you call me out on my bullshit. I've never met anyone like you, Yoyo. You're more than a little amazing. Heh. Sorry...

Yukiko (to Victor): I think you're more than a little amazing too. And, I like it when you say nice things about me. It makes me feel special.

Victor (to Yukiko): Heh. I was worried I was embarrassing you. In that case, you're one of the most interesting, pretty girls I've ever met. And you're damned good with a sword. Thank you for not trouncing Persephone today. It would have upset her.

Yukiko (to Victor): Oh, um, it was nothing. I could tell it would have upset her, I probably would have thrown the fight if I could. I think she's a little jealous & upset about me being here with your family, while she's on the other side. I don't want to get in the way of your friendship, which was why I wasn't making a big deal about you forgetting our date.

Victor (to Yukiko): Yeah. She is a little put out. She knows she is, though, so she hasn't been obnoxious about it. Heh. She was even getting me to try to invite you along when we were exploring. Seph and I get a little, uh, insular with each other, I suppose. I think because for her, she feels accepted by my family. She's a born trouble-maker if there ever was one. And for me, she was my only real friend for a long time.

Yukiko (to Victor): Well, while she's here visiting I'll leave you alone, okay? You two spend as much time together as you need to. I'm sure I can find something to do to occupy myself. I mean, I've got school, lessons with your parents & I can hangout with Mars. Heck, now that I say all of that, I'm surprised I have any free time at all.

Victor (to Yukiko): You say that as though I won't keep trying to see you anyway. And I'm still, selfishly, going to bogart all your time tonight.

Yukiko (to Victor): Heehee. Well, you sir, have my undivided attention.

Victor (to Yukiko): Excellent.