Hiiri: Why am I hearing rumors regarding CLANNG's airship factories in Rangoon & a R&D facility in Minsk being destroyed? Who would dare !?! (to Starling) Starling, are you seriously going to play this game again with me? You know, it never ends well for you. Let me see Carver.
Starling (to Hiiri): I'm sorry, ma'am, but he asked not to be disturbed by ANYONE. He's in a very important meeting right now. I'm sure he'll be more than happy to see you when the meeting is over. Would you like to wait here? Or I could contact you when he's through?
Hiiri (to Starling): … I know when I'm being handled, little bird. And, I don't much like it. Please, tell Director Carver that I would like to see him when he is done with his very important meeting. I'll be in my rooms.
Starling: I'll definitely make sure he gets the message… Just like all the other ones you left. Carver is mine & I'm not going to share. (to Hiiri) Oh yes, ma'am, but of course.
A few hours later:
Starling (to Carver): Hello, sir. Did your meeting with Parliament go well? Would you like me to call down for your lunch, sir?
Carver (to Starling): No. Thank you, miss. We're tired of meetings. We're ENDLESSLY tired of fat old men who won't stop talking, miss. We had to try very hard not to puncture the lungs of every last one of them, miss. Other Carver was screaming for their blood so loudly, we couldn't hear much else. He has given us quite the headache, miss. Is our mistress about? We are weary of these games, miss. We wish to be done with them.
Starling (to Carver): … She is in her room, sir. I would be more than happy to take care of those fat old men for you, sir. Those are my favorite kind to play with… They usually offer me candy or a pony first before I gut them.
Carver (to Starling): We would like very much to handle their insides personally, miss. But we do hope you will help. We must speak to our mistress, Miss Starling. We are tired. Please make sure we're not disturbed, miss.
Starling (to Carver): … Is that really necessary, sir? … I didn't mean to overstep my bounds, sir. My apologies… I'll be right here if you need me.
Carver (to Starling): We don't understand, miss.
Starling (to Carver): Talking to Hiiri, sir... All she does is order everyone around, but you're the one in charge. You could do anything you wanted. Who really cares about her plan, except for her? If she really cared about you, she'd let you play rather than being cooped up with those fat old men… We could go and paint the town red like in the old days, sir.
Carver (to Starling): We're afraid you don't understand, miss. Of course our mistress doesn't care for us. She needs us for her plan, miss. She has always been there. Making sure we could continue to play, miss. We will again. When that day comes, miss, shall we start with the fat, old men? Or would you like us to visit an orphanage, miss? You always enjoy children. We have no interest in being in charge, miss. It makes Other Carver scream. Worse than with father, miss.
Starling (to Carver): I'm sorry, Mister Carver sir. I'm just jealous that you choose to spend time with her, instead of wandering the streets with me. I didn't know… And, I do like playing with orphans. They're always seem so hopeful right before.
Carver (to Starling): That is our favorite part, miss. They always scream so beautifully... We shall call if we need you, miss.
Starling (to Carver): Yes sir.
Outside of Renfield's, West Piedmont:
Marlena: Goddamn it, it is too fucking early for this shit… Dad was right about sadistic gallery owners.
Vincent (to Marlena): Good morning, sweetie. What on earth are you doing up and about this early?
Marlena (to Vincent): Oh hi, Uncle Vincent… I had a meeting with a gallery owner at ass o'clock.
Vincent (to Marlena): Why on God's green Earth would anyone schedule a meeting first thing in the morning. Did it go well?
Marlena (to Vincent): She said she was intrigued and would like to see some more of my work before she made space on her calendar. Whatever the hell that means?
Vincent (to Marlena): Well, clearly she thought you were too talented to dismiss immediately, but it's still not a yes, is it? Fuck her soundly then. Do you want a coffee? I'm dying for a cup.
Marlena (to Vincent): That would be fucking fantastic. Thank you. What are you doing out and about so early? You're, like, the antithesis of a morning person.
Vincent (to Marlena): Hee hee. You are so much like your father. I'm just getting back from a little errand running on the other side. Don't worry. Everyone is fine. Your roommate and aunt send their regards.
Marlena (to Vincent): Oh good. I'm glad they're okay… Oh fuck me. Sorry. I just saw someone working I was really hoping not to run into today.
Vincent (to Marlena): Why don't you wait outside then? I can grab the coffees. What do you want?
Marlena (to Vincent): Thanks. A red eye with an extra shot of espresso would be great.
Vincent (to Marlena): I'll be back in a heartbeat, hun.
Marlena (to Vincent): Sounds good.
A minute later:
Nathaniel (to Marlena): Hey, Stretch. What the fuck are you doing up and out this early?
Marlena (to Nathaniel): Hey tough guy… I had a meeting with a gallery. I ran into Uncle Vincent on my way here, he's grabbing me a coffee.
Nathaniel (to Marlena): Oh yeah? His kids'll be glad he's back. I take it the meeting didn't go well. Cigarette?
Marlena (to Nathaniel): Thanks… I have no idea how it went. She said she was intrigued & wanted to see more of my work.
Nathaniel (to Marlena): So show her some more. Have you seen some of the shit on display around town? You're more than fucking talented enough.
Marlena (to Nathaniel): Heh… Thanks for the vote of confidence. No, seriously. I'm not being sarcastic. I know it's a shock, but I can actually be sincere.
Nathaniel (to Marlena): I don't think you're insincere. You're not warm and fuzzy, but I wouldn't say you were insincere at all. Heh. If anything, you seem to tell people exactly what you're thinking. Probably annoys the shit outta the overly sensitive type. Whoops. Looks like Uncle Vincent is headed this way. I should get back to work anyway. Later, Stretch.
Marlena (to Nathaniel): Bye & thanks, Nate.
Nathaniel (to Marlena): Heh. For what? Most girls would be insulted if I said that to them, Freakshow. :-P
Marlena (to Nathaniel): Takes one to know one. :-P
Nathaniel (to Marlena): Never claimed otherwise. Later. (to Vincent) Hey Uncle Vincent. Everything OK?
Vincent (to Nathaniel): Everything and everyone is fine, hun. No worries. I'll see you after work. (to Marlena) Here you are, hun.
Marlena (to Vincent): Thanks. Sorry to make you go in there on your own.
Vincent (to Marlena): Hee hee. That boy will turn into a regular person if he's not careful. So, who are you avoiding in the cafe? Don't make a face. You knew I was going to ask, and that I'm completely immune to your glare. I've known your dad forever.
Marlena (to Vincent): … It's uh, just River. He's back from wherever the fuck he went. He just gets on my nerves.
Vincent (to Marlena): Ah, the wandering wastrel returns, & he gets on your nerves suddenly, does he? You two were thicker than gravy before he left.
Marlena (to Vincent): Yeah well… He fucking left without telling me. So yeah, he gets on my fucking nerves, now.
Vincent (to Marlena): Heh. Fair enough.
Marlena (to Vincent): What? You're thinking something… Go ahead, Uncle Vincent, let me have it.
Vincent (to Marlena): Heh. I'm not going to "let you have it," hun. Clearly, River hurt you when he took off without telling you. How long had you two been going out?
Marlena (to Vincent): … Six or seven months. We were keeping it quiet, because we didn't want to make it weird for him at work. You know how Mom can get.
Vincent (to Marlena): Mmm. I do at that. And then he left. Ouch. I'm so sorry, sweetie. That's rough.
Marlena (to Vincent): He stopped by the other night to apologize & talk, looking all sexy with his dumb hair. I pretty much told him to fuck off. It's fine… I just thought I was fucking over it. Apparently not. I'm sorry. You don't want to hear about this shit. I mean, you've got all sorts of more important things to deal with then some whiny ass bullshit from me.
Vincent (to Marlena): Sweetie, you're my niece and I love you. Of course I care what's going on with you. It's important to me too.
Marlena (to Vincent): Thanks.
Vincent (to Marlena): Boys at that age are fucking morons, hun. Trust me. I've got two of them in my house, and I WAS one. Believe me, I was an especially epic fucking moron. Your poor, poor mother.
Marlena (to Vincent): Heh… How did she handle that?
Vincent (to Marlena): Honestly? I have no earthly idea HOW she managed, but I'm very glad she did.
Marlena (to Vincent): Heh. I bet Aunt Poppy is, too… Do you think I'm being too hard on River?
Vincent (to Marlena): That's up to you, hun. You have plenty of very good reasons to be angry at him, but you're the one who has to decide if he's worth forgiving.
Marlena (to Vincent): I had a fucking feeling you were going to say that. Thanks for listening. I should probably let you get home. I'm sure Zoe & Victor have gotten talked into something terrible by Seph by now… I'm kidding. They're probably fine.
Vincent (to Marlena): Oh good heavens. You're probably right.
Marlena (to Vincent): Bye, Uncle Vincent.
Vincent (to Marlena): Later, tater tot.
A few hours later:
Vincent: Good heavens… (to Victor, Persephone & Zoe) What are you three doing in here?
Persephone (to Vincent): We, uh, got bored and were playing pirates...
Vincent (to Persephone): What have we told you about swords, Seph? They belong in the practice room. And if you want to teach Zoe how to use one, please do so when either myself or your Aunt are here. (to Persephone, Victor & Zoe) Am I clear on that, everyone?
Persephone (to Vincent): Yes, Uncle Vincent. I'm sorry. She just seemed so keen on learning how & we got carried away.
Zoe (to Vincent): I'm sorry, Dad. We didn't mean to end up in the living room, it just sort of happened.
Victor (to Vincent): Yes, sir. Sorry, Dad.
Vincent (to Victor, Zoe & Persephone): Alright. Come give me a hug, you heathen monsters.
Zoe (to Vincent): How's Mom and Yoyo doing, Dad?
Vincent (to Zoe): They're doing fine, sweetie. They miss everyone.
Zoe (to Vincent): That's good to hear… You're not going to tell us anything else, are you?
Vincent (to Zoe): Nope.
Persephone (to Vincent): Uncle Vincent, do you think it's at all possible if I could go be with Aunt Poppy and help? I know I'm supposed to be grounded, but couldn't I be doing something useful rather than languishing here?
Vincent (to Victor & Zoe): Could you two excuse Persephone and I for a minute, please?
Persephone: Oops. (to Vincent) I'm sorry. Did I say something wrong, Uncle Vincent?
Zoe (to Vincent): Oh sure.
Victor (to Vincent): Oh. Yes, of course. (to Zoe) Come on, Zoe.
Zoe (to Victor): Right behind you.
Vincent (to Persephone): No, you didn't, sweetie. I know you want to help, hun, but you have to understand that right now, what your aunt and her former coworkers are doing is incredibly, * incredibly* dangerous. They've all been marked for death. By both CLANNG and the Empire. What they're doing counts as treason, Seph, and if they, or anyone helping them is caught... There won't be a trial, hun. They'll be shot or hanged on sight. If her hand hadn't been forced, your aunt would NEVER do something this risky, and she certainly wouldn't have chosen to involve the people we care about. You're 17, Seph, and this is FAR too dangerous for you to be involved in. Even if they're successful, and manage to oust CLANNG from Parliament, everyone involved might not be pardoned. They may be banished from Britannia and all her subsidiaries.
Persephone (to Vincent): I understand all that, I just thought there might be some tiny errands that might need running that important folks shouldn't be wasted on. You know, like they might need someone to pass notes through the inn. I know, I'm going to need go home soon. Mam isn't getting any less preggers & Da is probably making himself crazy with running the inn. That's all.
Vincent (to Persephone): I'll ask her, hun. Don't be too disappointed if she says no, OK? (to Zoe & Victor) And you two can come out of hiding now! Do you not know what a private conversation is? I swear!
Persephone (to Vincent): Alright.
Victor (to Vincent): How did you know we were there?
Zoe (to Victor): Probably because of your heavy breathing. :-P
Victor (to Zoe): Or maybe because you giggle nervously when you think you're being "sneaky."
Zoe (to Victor): I think I know how to be sneaky a whole lot better than you.
Victor (to Zoe): You are not!
Zoe (to Victor): Are too!
Persephone (to Victor & Zoe): Seriously? Are you two really going to start a fight about this? Grunt, you really are siblings.
Vincent (to Persephone, Victor & Zoe): All three of you are awful at being sneaks. If you were spies, you'd all have been shot. Victor, I already know you've sneaked out of the house to visit Yoyo. And YOU, Zoe, have visited Colin. Do I have to give all three of you the Sex Talk? AGAIN?
Victor (to Vincent): Dad, you're the only parent I know that uses that as a threat.
Nathaniel (to Persephone, Vincent, Victor & Zoe): Hey, I'm... I'm going back to work.
Zoe (to Vincent): I swear, Dad, I'm not having sex with Colin. I was only there for 10 minutes. Honest.
Persephone (to Vincent): I haven't snuck out anywhere, since I've been here… I don't deserve to get the SEX TALK.
Vincent (to Nathaniel & Persephone): Seph, you and Nate are excused. I need to sexually educate my children.
Persephone (to Nathaniel): I don't think I've ever been happier to see you in my life. Want to grab a soda in the kitchen?
Nathaniel (to Persephone): Uhhhhh, yeah. I'm not staying in here.
Persephone (to Nathaniel): Heehee, I don't blame you at all…
Vincent (to Zoe & Victor): You see kids, when one person loves another person, or several people in some cases...
Zoe (to Vincent & Victor): Oh God! Are you really going to torture us with this again? I swear I haven't done anything except kissing.
A moment later, in the kitchen:
Persephone (to Nathaniel): Heh. You must be desperate to avoid the sex talk from Uncle Vincent if you willingly came in here with the person you've been avoiding for weeks.
Nathaniel (to Persephone): I've had The Talk from Uncle Vincent once already. That's enough for one lifetime... But, um, yeah. I can go out on the patio.
Persephone (to Nathaniel): Just so you know I'm not mad at you, Nate. I wasn't even really mad at Aiden. Mostly, I was mad at myself because I did something extremely stupid… and then when I took off, that I got caught. I'm glad that you & Aiden have each other. Really. He's a swell guy under that stuffy, distant exterior & heck, if given time I could have probably fallen in love with him... But, I shouldn't have manipulated him like that to get what I wanted. I was just desperate to get away & it seemed like my only option at the time. I'm sure you can understand that… Anyway, can we call a truce? I already feel enough like a pariah, without you leaving rooms every time I enter them.
Nathaniel (to Persephone): Oh. Um, yeah. Alright. Sorry. I wasn't trying to make you feel like a pariah. I just wasn't sure how much you'd wanna see me, you know? I, uh, I get being desperate. I almost did something... Well, if my aunt and uncle hadn't been, uh, them, I woulda done something way stupider, and way shittier to get outta my house.
Persephone (to Nathaniel): Really? Dumber than marrying a man you didn't love? … I am slightly intrigued, but you don't have to tell me.
Nathaniel (to Persephone): Guess it depends on your perspective, but yeah. I, uh, I almost shacked up with some guy who used to pay to talk to me. He offered me a place to stay, and money and shit... He never said he expected me to fuck him, but I'm not an idiot. Considering all the fucking hangups I have? I'd say kinda fucking dumber. At least you like Aiden.
Persephone (to Nathaniel): Yes I do. He's just a little too stuffy for me... & well, not to mention, the whole being gay thing. Kind of puts a damper on the whole romance… I know, he said he had feelings for me, but I think he was just starved for affection of any sort. And, I just happened to be the first person to provide it. Poor boy. Besides, you two look adorable together. Got this whole cross time look going. He needs someone that will take him out of his comfort zone, which I think you can totally do.
Nathaniel (to Persephone): Oh. Um, thanks. I, uh, I really like him.
Persephone (to Nathaniel): Heh. Yeah, I kinda figured. It's totally moo.
Nathaniel (to Persephone): Um, moo is good, isn't it?
Persephone (to Nathaniel): Heh. Yeah… Sorry. It's the last remnants of a secret language Victor & I had when we were little. Moo is good, grunt is bad. I don't really remember anything else…And, Victor doesn't do it anymore, because he forgets which childhood he's remembering. Plus, he likes to act like he's all grown-up.
Nathaniel (to Persephone): Heh heh. He does, doesn't he? You and Fancy Pants are fucking tight. Doesn't surprise me y'all had a "secret language." Me and my brother were always pretty much at each other's throat. Heh. You know, it's funny. This family is like everything my dad used to rally against at the pulpit. I mean like almost EVERYTHING. Premarital sex, same sex attractions, drinking, all the fun immoral behavior that makes you a vessel of Satan and tarnishes the light and holiness of God. But... y'all are WAY more forgiving, and way better people than anyone in my dad's fucking congregation. I mean, shit... Oh. Heh. Sorry. I kinda started rambling there. Sorry.
Persephone (to Nathaniel): Heehee, it's okay… Just so you know, my Mam & Da make us kids go to church until we're twelve and then, we get to decide if we want to continue… I'll tell you a little secret, I still go on occasion for the big fancy holidays. I like the pomp & circumstance but I don't think God's holiness and light needs to be housed in a building. I think it's everywhere & it's in the people and their actions… It doesn't seem that Christian to me to condemn someone for being different. It should be celebrated… The world would be a terribly dull place if everyone was the same. Could you imagine a world of nothing but people just like your father? Dullsville… Heehee, see? Even I can ramble about stuff.
Nathaniel (to Persephone): Heh. Yeah, well, when you talk it's nice. I tend to be angry and bitter about shit. Or hadn't you noticed? :-P
Persephone (to Nathaniel): I think deaf people would notice. :-P
Nathaniel (to Persephone): Yeah. I'm real fucking subtle.
Persephone (to Nathaniel): Heehee, it's a family trait.
Nathaniel (to Persephone): Oh... Holy fucking shit. It IS isn't it? God's hairy balls! I always wondered how the fuck I fit in with this group... Heh. Ha ha ha! Holy shit! Heh. Jesus...
Persephone (to Nathaniel): Heh. Are you okay, Nate? I don't think I've ever seen you laugh like that.
Nathaniel (to Persephone): Heh. Yeah. I--I'm fine. Just a release of tension, you know? Heh, heh... I do laugh from time to time, you know.
Persephone (to Nathaniel): I think I've only seen you scowl or smirk… It's nice to hear. You've got a nice laugh… I think I'll start making some dinner for everyone. Should we go rescue Zoe & Victor from their father?
Nathaniel (to Persephone): Jesus. Probably. I'll be they're ready to commit suicide by now. You wanna do it or shall I?
Persephone (to Nathaniel): I'll rock, paper, scissors you for it.
Nathaniel (to Persephone): Alright. Rock. Paper. Scissors. SHOOT!
Persephone (to Nathaniel): Haha. Paper!
Nathaniel (to Persephone): Shit! Fuck you and your paper! Alright. Alright. I'll go rescue the fucking Potter kids.
Persephone (to Nathaniel): Heehee, I'll make dinner. I think it's a fair exchange.
Nathaniel (to Persephone): Says fucking you...
A few moments later, in the living room:
Vincent (to Victor & Zoe): And SOMETIMES, a person will get involved with something mechanical like a marital aid or automaton...
Victor (to Vincent): DAD!
Zoe (to Vincent): Like the Poppy-bot or Percy?
Vincent (to Zoe): That's EXACTLY what I mean, hun. When I was a young pirate...
Zoe (to Vincent): Dad, are we being punished?
Vincent (to Zoe): Of course you are, sweetie.
Nathaniel (to Vincent): Hey, um, Uncle Vincent? I had some, uh... concerns. You know. Um, personal concerns. Can I talk to you? For a minute? You know. Alone? On the patio? For a minute? Please?
Vincent (to Nathaniel): Oh. Of course, hun. (to Victor & Zoe) Excuse me for a minute, kids.
Zoe (to Vincent): Yes, of course.
Nathaniel (to Zoe & Victor): You both owe me SO FUCKING MAJORLY right now.
Zoe (to Nathaniel): We totally do… Thank you. (to Victor) So, do we make a break for it?
Victor (to Zoe): Holy shit, YES! We run into the kitchen and do whatever we think will make Dad forget that line of questioning.
Zoe (to Victor): Okay, right behind you… So, you really snuck over to see Yoyo?
Victor (to Zoe): Yes. Did you really sneak over to see Colin?
Zoe (to Victor): Yes, but it really was just for ten minutes or so & all we did was kiss. If I had known I was going to get punished like this, I should have done more.
Victor (to Zoe): Ha ha ha! I feel like I should yell at you that you're too young, but you're kind of brilliant for a 15 year old.
Zoe (to Victor): Heh… You're only a year older than me, old man.
Victor (to Zoe): Yes, but I'm the Older Brother. :-P (to Persephone) Ooo. What are you making in here, Seph? It smells delicious.
Persephone (to Victor & Zoe): Oh good, Nate got you… Here, you chop these onions & you, grate this cheese. (to Victor) We're making lasagna & cheesy garlic bread.
Victor (to Persephone): Aye aye, ma'am. So, did you hit Nate with a frying pan? What happened in here?
Zoe (to Persephone): Okay… Why are you suddenly being so domestic? Are you feeling alright?
Persephone (to Victor & Zoe): We came to an understanding… And, someone needs to step up & feed you all properly. I don't want to deal with your mom coming back & finding you dead of starvation or malnourished because you've been eating nothing but breakfast & then missing dinners. I have a feeling Uncle Vincent is going to have his hands full & since I'm here, I might as well be useful.
Zoe (to Persephone & Victor): Heehee… Who are you? What have you done with the real Persephone?
Victor (to Zoe & Persephone): Heh. You're better than we deserve, Seph. So, when should we think about rescuing Nate?
Persephone (to Victor): Probably the sooner, the better. If you start doing the layers. I'll go rescue him.
Victor (to Persephone): OK, I think I've got it. If I need help, I'll start screaming.
Persephone (to Victor): Heehee. I'll bet Zoe can help you.
Zoe (to Persephone & Victor): Sure, I can.
A little while later, on the balcony:
Persephone (to Vincent & Nathaniel): Sorry to interrupt but, I'm in a very delicate stage in the lasagna making game & we seem to have run out of olive oil and we don't have anymore of that red wine you like, Uncle Vincent. Could you possibly run out and pick some up for us? The cheesy garlic bread just won't be the same without the olive oil.
Vincent (to Persephone): Heh. Alright, hun. I'll go pick some up. Thank you for making dinner. Is there anything else we need? Hmmm, somehow, I get the impression you're trying to get rid of me. But since you're making lasagna, I'll ignore it.
Persephone (to Vincent): Thank you. I didn't notice anything that can't wait until later. I'll make a shopping list tomorrow, if you'd like.
Vincent (to Persephone): Thank you, Persephone. I'll be back shortly.
Persephone (to Nathaniel): Sorry that took me so long. I had to figure out what to do with the olive oil in case he looked for it.
Nathaniel (to Persephone): Yeah... Next time, YOU distract him.
Persephone (to Nathaniel): It's a deal.
A little while later, in the kitchen:
Nathaniel (to Persephone): Heh. Do you need any help?
Persephone (to Nathaniel): Oh, sure… you want to mince the garlic for the bread?
Nathaniel (to Persephone): Yeah. I'm pretty sure can handle that.
Victor (to Nathaniel): What the hell did you say to Dad to make him stay out there with you so long?
Nathaniel (to Persephone, Victor & Zoe): You don't wanna know.
Victor (to Nathaniel): Yes, I do. (to Persephone & Zoe) How about you guys?
Persephone & Zoe (to Victor & Nathaniel): YES!
Zoe (to Persephone): Heh… You're okay. You still can't dress me, but you're okay.
Persephone (to Zoe): Heehee.
Nathaniel (to Persephone, Victor & Zoe): You guys are some nosy bastards, you know that?
Zoe (to Nathaniel): Please, tell us… Please?
Persephone (to Nathaniel): Yes… That's why our family is so attracted to espionage or criminal activity. It's in our nature.
Nathaniel (to Persephone, Victor & Zoe): Jesus! Fine! ... I asked him if he thought I was still a virgin. BEFORE now, I mean! You know. Not technically, but, um... I dunno. Intellectually?
Victor (to Nathaniel): Oh. Well, that would certainly keep him occupied.
Persephone (to Nathaniel, Victor & Zoe): … I think that would keep anyone occupied. Good job, Nate.
Zoe (to Nathaniel, Victor & Persephone): … I'm gonna go with yes. Don't all look at me like that. What? I can't answer?
Nathaniel (to Persephone, Victor & Zoe): I wasn't thinking about putting it up to a vote, you know!
Victor (to Nathaniel): Calm down. No one is making fun of you. And for what it's worth, I agree with Zoe. Are you done with that garlic yet?
Persephone (to Nathaniel): Not that it matters, but I agree with Zoe, too.
Nathaniel (to Persephone, Victor & Zoe): YES. I'm done with the garlic. And... Um, thanks.
Zoe (to Nathaniel, Persephone & Victor): Well, if you're done with my services. I'm gonna grab a quick smoke before we eat.
Persephone (to Nathaniel): Good. Now, hand it over… Where's Uncle with the olive oil? (to Zoe) I am. Thank you for the help.
Nathaniel (to Persephone): Here. I'm going out with Zoe to grab a smoke. Holler if you need me.
Persephone (to Nathaniel): Will do… Dinner should be ready as soon as Vincent gets back.
Nathaniel (to Persephone): Yeah. OK.
Victor (to Persephone): Didn't we have olive oil?
Persephone (to Victor): … Yes, but I think I used the last of it for the sauce.
A minute later, out in the balcony:
Nathaniel (to Zoe): Hey. Loan me your lighter for a second.
Zoe (to Nathaniel): Oh sure. Here you go.
Nathaniel (to Zoe): Thanks. God, I'm so fucking exhausted. Today has been a weird day.
Zoe (to Nathaniel): You mean besides the usual family stuff?
Nathaniel (to Zoe): Heh. In this family, isn't that enough? But, yeah... What? Having a group vote on the status of your fucking virginity isn't embarrassing enough?
Zoe (to Nathaniel): Hey, you brought it up… after we all bugged you about it. But, that's not the point. You could have told us anything & you chose to tell us that instead. Were you really concerned about it?
Nathaniel (to Zoe): I dunno. No! Maybe... Kinda. It's the only thing that popped in my head when I needed to distract your dad. What I'm hearing here is "lie in the future."
Zoe (to Nathaniel): I am not saying that, you big baby. What I was trying to say was that I thought you probably wanted to talk about it or you wouldn't have brought it up.
Nathaniel (to Zoe): Yeah. Probably. S'not how I thought of myself, or how my parents treated me. Doesn't matter.
Zoe (to Nathaniel): So, what else happened that got under your skin?
Nathaniel (to Zoe): Nothing much else happened. Mars's ex saw me smoking with her & was grilling me about it.
Zoe (to Nathaniel): Mars has an ex? I didn't think she even went on dates… like, ever.
Nathaniel (to Zoe): Heh. Yeah. She does. He dresses like Dean Winchester, uses too much product in his hair & rides a motorcycle.
Zoe (to Nathaniel): HAHAHA! I was totally not expected that. For some reason, I was expecting him to be a mathematician or a librarian.
Nathaniel (to Zoe): Heh. He was also apparently raised by hippies and read "The Motorcycle Diaries" one too many times. His name's River.
Zoe (to Nathaniel): … And, you think he's a jerk, huh?
Nathaniel (to Zoe): Dunno. I don't know him that well, so I can't really say. He was just trying a little TOO hard to make me like him, you know? I don't trust anyone trying that hard to be charming. But, Stretch seems like a smart chickadee. What do I know?
Zoe (to Nathaniel): I don't know… even smart girls go stupid over the bad boys, sometimes.
Nathaniel (to Zoe): Yeah. Let's hope that's not the case. I mean, the last guy I met that I didn't trust was Aiden, and you can see how that went.
Zoe (to Nathaniel): Heehee, so you're going to make out with him? Is there something attractive about your cousin's love interests? …I'm kidding.
Nathaniel (to Zoe): That is... That is not funny! I'm not some kinda... I dunno, fucking slut or something.
Zoe (to Nathaniel): I was just joking… Wait. You totally think he's hot, don't you?
Nathaniel (to Zoe): No fucking way. He reminds me too much of every dickhead at school who ever kicked my ass. Sorry. Seph just... Basically, she told me that she's not mad at me, and she's glad Aiden and I are together and that we're... What was the word she used? Moo? I dunno. I just still feel kinda like shit over it, I guess.
Zoe (to Nathaniel): Well, you shouldn't… do you regret it? I mean, you've been a lot happier & more relaxed since you started seeing Aiden. It seems like a pretty good thing to me. Yes, it was fucked up how you got together, but who cares?
Nathaniel (to Zoe): Heh. Yeah, you're right. I don't regret it. One fucking bit, actually. Don't mind me. It's just old shit rattling in my head.
Zoe (to Nathaniel): It's okay… Let's go get some food. I'm starving.
A couple hours later:
Vincent (to Percy): Percy? What on earth are you doing here, hun? ... What's happened?
Percy (to Vincent): There was an accident at the inn, honey. Molly was hurt. She's okay, but the doctor has put her on mandatory bed rest. I've come to collect Persephone. They need her at home.
Vincent (to Percy): Of course. The kids are all in the kitchen. What kind of accident was it, Percy? There's something you're not telling me.
Percy (to Vincent): … Molly got into a bit of a verbal dispute with a CLANNG soldier who was trying to confiscate a delivery. He claimed that she didn't have the proper paperwork & that she had come by the goods dishonestly. It got a bit heated… Bernard & I were fixing a broken fence at the other end of the yard, so we only know what the neighbors told us, honey.
Vincent (to Percy): Those goddamn, self important shitheads! I ought to find whoever this fucker is... Whooo. I'm alright, hun. I'm alright... Let's go tell Seph, and have the kids say their goodbyes.
Percy (to Vincent): I know, honey… Poppy said much the same thing, too. I asked Aiden to keep an eye on her.
Vincent (to Percy): Thank you, Percy. (to Persephone, Zoe, Nathaniel & Victor) I have some bad news, guys. It's your mom, Seph. She got into a fight with a CLANNG officer. She's OK, but she's been put on bed rest. Your dad needs your help at the inn.
Zoe (to Vincent): Oh?
Persephone (to Vincent): Oh god… What about the baby?
Vincent (to Persephone): It'll be OK, sweetie.
Persephone (to Vincent): Of course, I'll get my things packed right now.
Nathaniel (to Vincent & Persephone): Wait. Some guy roughed up Seph's mom? What the... What the fuck for?!
Vincent (to Nathaniel): Nate. Please. Not now, OK?
Nathaniel (to Vincent): Oh. Yeah. Sorry.
Zoe (to Vincent): What are we going to do about this, Dad? We are going to do something about this, right? Not we, specifically. I mean, you & mom.
Vincent (to Zoe): Sweetie, I doubt very much your mother will let this lie, but CLANNG knows that Seph's family is related to us. We can't retaliate if it can be connected to the Inn or the Longfellows at all, OK? We can't let our tempers get the better of us, OK? Believe me, I would love to show that man EXACTLY what I think of a someone who raises a hand against an unarmed, pregnant woman, but we have to be careful.
Zoe (to Vincent): … I know, Dad. This really sucks. I mean, I've been wanting Seph to go home for days, but not like this. Not because someone got hurt… (to Victor) Victor? You've been awfully quiet. Are you ok?
Victor (to Zoe): I'm upset... (to Vincent): Was it because of us, Dad?
Vincent (to Victor & Zoe): Victor, our relation to your aunt may subject her to increased scrutiny right now... but do you REALLY think Molly isn't capable of getting into trouble on her own?
Persephone (to Percy): I'm ready to go.
Percy (to Persephone): Alright, honey. Say your goodbyes & let's get going.
Persephone (to Vincent, Victor, Nathaniel & Zoe): Goodbye, all. Please be safe.
Zoe (to Persephone): … Screw it. Give me a hug, Seph.
Victor (to Persephone): Come here. BE CAREFUL! Please call us if you need us, alright?
Persephone (to Victor): Of course.
Nathaniel (to Persephone): Um, I hope everything turns out OK. With your mom and stuff. Don't let the Inn drive you nuts, alright?
Persephone (to Nathaniel): Thanks, Nate.
Vincent (to Persephone): Call me if you or Bernard need anything, sweetie. We love you. (to Percy) Keep an eye on them, Percy.
Persephone (to Vincent): I will. We love you, too.
Percy (to Vincent): Of course, honey. They're my family, too…in a manner of speaking. (to Persephone) Come on, honey. There's no time like the present.
Persephone (to Percy): Let's go.
Zoe: Well, that was the suck.
Victor (to Zoe): Yeah. Pretty much.
Vincent (to Victor, Nathaniel & Zoe): I know this is awful, guys, and I know you're worried, but Molly is made of stern stuff. She'd have to be to run that inn and put up with Bernard all these years. She'll be fine.
Victor (to Vincent): I know, Dad.
Zoe (to Vincent, Victor & Nathaniel): I'm going to go have smoke & then go to bed... I have school in the morning.
Vincent (to Zoe): Give me a hug, smokestack.
Zoe (to Vincent): I love you, Dad.
Vincent (to Zoe): I love you too, kiddo. (to Victor) I love you too, Mr. Gloom and Doom.
Nathaniel (to Zoe): Want some company?
Zoe (to Nathaniel): Sure.
A few minutes later:
Nathaniel (to Zoe): Hey. You holding up?
Zoe (to Nathaniel): Yeah... I guess so.
Nathaniel (to Zoe): Yeah. You look real alright. Don't worry. Everyone will be OK.
Zoe (to Nathaniel): I know... I'm just kinda feeling nervous about school tomorrow.
Nathaniel (to Zoe): Really? heh. All the shit you've had to face and deal with in your life and high school is scaring you? You'll be alright. Besides, isn't your boyfriend with with six pack gonna be there with you? :-P
Zoe (to Nathaniel): Heh... Colin is still grounded, so school is the only place I'll get to see him for a week.
Nathaniel (to Zoe): See? There you go. All the more reason to seek a higher education.
Zoe (to Nathaniel): Heh... It still makes me nervous but I'll get over it.
Nathaniel (to Zoe): Heh. I know you will. Christ... I'm exhausted. I'm up early tomorrow too. Take it easy, Shortie.
Zoe (to Nathaniel): You, too.
