A Strange Old World, Day 114

At Holloway Sanitarium; New London, Britannia:

Mrs. Mirabelle Wilkes (to Roland): Martin, is that you? You haven't visited me in ages. You said you would & Mrs. Lawrence keeps stealing my blankets. You really must tell her to stop or better yet arrest her… That'll show the old bat.

Roland (to Mrs. Wilkes): I'm not certain I can arrest her for that, Mother. I will speak to the staff, however... How... I trust you've been well since the last time I saw you.

Mrs. Wilkes (to Roland): Oh. I'm fine as can be expected... You're not Martin... Which one are you again?

Roland (to Mrs. Wilkes): I'm Roland, Mother. Has Martin been visiting you?

Mrs. Wilkes (to Roland): Yes, he's a nice boy. He'd bring flowers from your father & sneak me chocolates. I think he was a bit sweet on me.

Roland (to Mrs. Wilkes): ... I see. I'm afraid Martin won't be able to visit you any longer.

Mrs. Wilkes (to Roland): He's dead, isn't he? I wish you boys would learn to play nice with each other.

Roland (to Mrs. Wilkes): We had nothing to do with it. He was... It was work. I'm afraid both he and Father are dead.

Mrs. Wilkes (to Roland): … Does that mean I can come home now? You boys need your mother. I promise to keep an eye on you… much better than before.

Roland (to Mrs. Wilkes): Mother, neither Aiden or I live at the main house. We're both grown men.

Mrs. Wilkes (to Roland): … Oh. Well, that just won't do. You tell Aiden to come home right this instance. His family needs him. This is punishment for our many wrongs. I told your father that God would not look kindly upon us but he wouldn't listen.

Roland (to Mrs. Wilkes): Mother... I doubt very much Aiden will come home, and I don't think this is God punishing us. I rather think it's our own misdeeds roosting in our rafters. I apologize I only seem to visit you when I have bad news. I wish I could say that I was going to visit more, but with Father dead, I'm afraid I'm going to be very busy.

Mrs. Wilkes (to Roland): Yes, yes. You sound just like your father. I'll be simply left here to rot because you both are afraid that I'll tell all the dirty little secrets… I know it was your father that was putting things in my morning tea. But with him gone, I'll be better soon, you'll see. Then, I can come home and take care of my babies.

Roland (to Mrs. Wilkes): As you say, Mother. I'll speak to the staff about your blankets. I have to go. I have to go give Aiden the news.

Mrs. Wilkes (to Roland): Alright… Come visit me when you can, Martin.

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

Aiden (to Nathaniel & Lily): I do believe that is the last applicant… Which ones should we ask back for a second interview?

Nathaniel (to Aiden & Lily): Hell if I know. Did you like any of 'em, Lil' Bit?

Lily (to Nathaniel & Aiden): … No, not really. They either smelled funny or had weird mustaches. And, Mister Desmond had a glass eye.

Aiden (to Nathaniel & Lily): Well, that doesn't help at all.

Nathaniel (to Lily & Aiden): ... He DID have a glass eye, didn't he? Ha ha ha! That explains it. You know, we could ask your aunt's girlfriend if she knows anyone. Or my aunt and uncle. Victor had tutors most of his life, I think.

Aiden (to Nathaniel & Lily): That sounds like a good idea. I'll ask Justine if you ask your aunt & uncle.

Lily (to Nathaniel & Aiden): Ooooo, will they come back to visit again? Your uncle was giving me sword lessons last time. It was fun. And, grand-auntie Poppy showed me a game… 3 card Monte… which I wasn't supposed to tell you. :-)

Nathaniel (to Lily & Aiden): ... On second thought maybe we shouldn't ask my aunt and uncle about tutors. :-P

Lily (to Nathaniel & Aiden): Awwww.

Nathaniel (to Lily): Heh. Calm down. I'm just kidding.

Aiden (to Lily & Nathaniel): Heh. They're not going to be your tutors, Lily. They are far to busy but they should know someone who appropriate. Victor seems to be intelligent & capable so they must have had a few good ones.

Nathaniel (to Aiden & lily): Heh.

Mrs. Esterly (to Nathaniel, Aiden & Lily): Master Aiden? I'm sorry to interrupt, but Roland is here. ...He needs to speak to you, dear.

Aiden (to Mrs. Esterly): Oh, yes, of course. (to Nathaniel & Lily) If you two will excuse me.

Nathaniel (to Aiden & Mrs. Esterly): Yeah. Of course. (to Lily) Wanna head into the kitchen with me?

Lily (to Nathaniel): Okay… Can I have a cookie?

Nathaniel (to Lily): Yes. Just don't tell Aiden.

A moment later, in the hallway:

Aiden (to Roland): To what do we owe the pleasure of your visit, Roland?

Roland (to Aiden): ... Father is dead.

Aiden (to Roland): … Oh.

Roland (to Aiden): I visited Mother, and gave her the news... She thought I was Wilkinson.

Aiden (to Roland): I believe father had been sending Wilkinson to visit her before he realized who he was. When is the funeral?

Roland (to Aiden): This Friday. There's obviously a lot to be done, and there will be an investigation. I'm sorry to report it wasn't... He was murdered in his study. His housekeeper, Ms. Averly was also killed. It might be a good time for you and Mrs. Esterly to stay elsewhere if you can.

Aiden (to Roland): I will definitely consider it, Roland. What are you going to do with Beatrice & the children?

Roland (to Aiden): I'm sending the children to school early, and I'm going to send Beatrice go visit her sister in Scotland for a while.

Aiden (to Roland): I hope for their continued safety. I'm sure you have a lot to take care. I'll see you at the service.

Roland (to Aiden): Thank you... I'll send over the information about the funeral as soon everything is finalized. Please be careful.

Aiden (to Roland): Yes, you do the same.

A couple minutes later, in the sitting room:

Aiden (to Mrs. Esterly): Mrs. Esterly, do we have any whiskey in this house?

Mrs. Esterly (to Aiden): Of course, dear. What's happened?

Aiden (to Mrs. Esterly): Lor-- My father is dead.

Mrs. Esterly (to Aiden): Oh good heavens. I'm sorry, sweetie. Come here… I'm so sorry. Let me get you that whiskey.

Aiden (to Mrs. Esterly): Thank you… Roland suggested that we leave town.

Mrs. Esterly (to Aiden): Did he? He must be worried.

Aiden (to Mrs. Esterly): He has good reason to be. Father & Ms Averly were killed in the house… I believe someone may be killing members of my family.

Mrs. Esterly (to Aiden): Oh that poor girl... What do you want to do, dear? We're not exactly a helpless lot.

Aiden (to Mrs. Esterly): Stay here, of course. I'm fairly certain it's Hiiri & if she wants a fight, I believe we are the ones to give her one. But, I think we should send Lily somewhere safe. She doesn't need to be caught up in all of this. She's already been through enough… I'm just at a loss as to where to send her.

Mrs. Esterly (to Aiden): We could send her to the other side with Nathaniel for a little while. Hee hee. Not that either of them will like that much.

Aiden (to Mrs. Esterly): Heh. He would not like that at all, though Lily might love it. It would be like those Verne books she's always reading.

Mrs. Esterly (to Aiden): Hee hee. She'd probably be over the moon... Although, it's Hiiri. She may know to look for him there. Why on earth is she targeting your family? ... I need to get something in the oven. I think better when I bake.

Aiden (to Mrs. Esterly): It may be just a coincidence… Wilkinson was creating his own faction. Father is-- was the director of the ISS... Who is the current leader of CLANNG? I bet you that we will hear about their death shortly if it hasn't happened already.

Mrs. Esterly (to Aiden): Who is it now... I think it's still that Fitzroy man who took over after Director Carver left.

Aiden (to Mrs. Esterly): Fitzroy? Really? Is it a coincidence that that's the alias of young George? Or does she tie into this as well?

Mrs. Esterly (to Aiden): The Fitzroys are quite an expansive criminal family. I believe Margaux chose that name to give her a bit of credence with the Smith Gang. ...Although, she does tie into it now that I think on it. Her father is the lead researcher at Vernian Industries.

Aiden (to Mrs. Esterly): Well, that is interesting… Where did you & Ms. Dvorak send Nate's friend, Hari?

Mrs. Esterly (to Aiden): We sent her to keep an eye on Grigori since he was the one who purchased Roland's debt.

Aiden (to Mrs. Esterly): …. Well, I think it might be time to take a family vacation. I hear the South of France is quite lovely this time of year.

Mrs. Esterly (to Aiden): I certainly wouldn't mind a bit of warmth, dear. This has been such a damp summer. ...How are you doing, sweetie? Your father was... Well, he was a brute and an arse, but he was still your father, wasn't he?

Aiden (to Mrs. Esterly): I'll grieve later, Mrs. Esterly. I need to protect my family first & foremost. Could you help Lily pack? I'll tell the Nate & the others. We'll get the house closed up.

Mrs. Esterly (to Aiden): Of course, dear.

A little while later, in the carriage house:

Aiden (to Persephone & Joseph): Sorry to interrupt your nesting but we need to go… Pack up only what you need. We're going on vacation.

Joseph (to Aiden): What?

Persephone (to Joseph): Something's wrong, sweetie. (to Aiden) Heh. We'll be ready to go shortly. Will you explain what's going on later?

Aiden (to Persephone & Joseph): Of course… My father was murdered last night.

Joseph: Shit.

Persephone (to Aiden): I'm so sorry, Aiden. We'll be ready to go, shortly. (to Joseph) Joseph start closing up the windows. I'll pack up the food.

Aiden (to Persephone & Joseph): Thank you.

Meanwhile, in the kitchen:

Nathaniel (to Lily): You're cheating! Don't deny it. I know you are, you crook! :-P

Lily (to Nathaniel): I am not!

Mrs. Esterly (to Nathaniel & Lily): Good heavens. What is going on in here?

Lily (to Mrs. Esterly): Heehee. We're playing cards.

Nathaniel (to Mrs. Esterly & Lily): I'm playing cards. She's counting them.

Lily (to Mrs. Esterly & Nathaniel): Everybody knows there's 52 of them.

Mrs. Esterly (to Lily & Nathaniel): He means your keeping track of which cards have been played and which are still in the deck, sweetie. Hee hee. It's your own fault for teaching her blackjack, dear. Come along, Lilian. We're going on vacation.

Lily (to Mrs. Esterly): Oh, is that bad? … I've never been on vacation before. Where are we going?

Mrs. Esterly (to Lily & Nathaniel): Hee hee. It's not cheating, but it does tend to annoy people. We're going to the South of France.

Lily (to Mrs. Esterly & Nathaniel): Oooooo… I can practice my French. Où est mon livre?

Mrs. Esterly (to Nathaniel & Lily): Nathaniel, dear, could you put up the kitchen? Shall we go pack you up, dear?

Lily (to Mrs. Esterly): Okay.

A little while later:

Aiden (to Nathaniel): Here, handsome. I brought some boxes.

Nathaniel (to Aiden): Thanks. What's going on?

Aiden (to Nathaniel): My father is dead, Nate. I'm fairly certain, it's Hiiri… We need to get out of the country for a bit. I figured a family vacation is the way to do it without raising too much suspicion. And, the south of France is nice this time of year… Mrs. Esterly sent Hari to Rodchenko's. And, his casino is probably the best place to hide.

Nathaniel (to Aiden): Shit. I'm sorry. C'mere. Don't worry. We're gonna be alright.

Aiden (to Nathaniel): I know we are. We just have to be smart & if it's possible, be a few steps ahead of Hiiri.

Nathaniel (to Aiden): Heh. Good thing we got you and Mrs. Esterly, then... Shit. She's making a grab for the ISS and CLANNG isn't she?

Aiden (to Nathaniel): I think so… Did she try something like this in the other timeline?

Nathaniel (to Aiden): Yeah. In both of them. In one, Carver was running CLANNG and she used your dad and Parliament to gain control of the ISS. In the other, CLANNG was runnin' both.

Aiden (to Nathaniel): You are amazing! You are our ace in the hole, Nate! You've been through this already. You know what she did & what she's going to do...

Nathaniel (to Aiden): What?!? I don't... Holy shit. You're right! She was grooming me to take Carver's place after she got tired of him or he went too fuckin' nuts to control. She made me sit in on all kinds of strategy meetings. Fuck! I wish I'd paid more attention.

Aiden (to Nathaniel): You may know more than you realize, Nate. When we get to the casino, Mrs. Esterly can help you with that. She was one of the best in retrieving buried memories.

Nathaniel (to Aiden): ... Yeah. Alright. Whatever I can do to help.

Aiden (to Nathaniel): You are my hero, handsome. I love you.

Nathaniel (to Aiden): Oh! Uh... Heh. Well, I can't say that I mind this kinda hero's welcome.

Aiden (to Nathaniel): Heh. Do you think you & Joseph can skip us all to the casino or should we take a more traditional mode of travel?

Nathaniel (to Aiden): I think between the two of us, we should be able to do it. Heh. Though one or both of us might be down and out for the count afterwards. Besides, the Lil' Bit's gotta learn I can do that shit sooner or later. ...Heh. Shit. She'll prolly work out Victor can do it too after this. She was kinda annoyed he wouldn't show her his "portal generator" after he came to visit.

Aiden (to Nathaniel): Heh. I think she was more annoyed that he left. I think she has a tiny bit of a crush on your cousin.

Nathaniel (to Aiden): Heh. Yeah. I noticed that. First time she met him, she was tellin' me how "handsome" he was. Christ...

Aiden (to Nathaniel): Heh. At her age, it's going to happen a lot… What? I've been reading books on child development.

Nathaniel (to Aiden): Heh heh. Why doesn't that surprise me? You are somethin' else, you know that?

Aiden (to Nathaniel): I hope that's a good thing… I've got everything taken care of here. Shall we gather the troops?

Nathaniel (to Aiden): It's a real good thing. Before we got a full house again... C'mere for a sec.

Aiden (to Nathaniel): Heh. Are you going to take us to Hawaii again? ;-)

Nathaniel (to Aiden): Wasn't planning on it. Even with Joseph helpin', that's a lot of people to move. I was gonna cause a scandal in the comfort of our own home instead.

Aiden (to Nathaniel): Heh… You are speaking my language.

A short time later, at Casino de la Renard; Nice, French Republic:

Ariadne (to Grigori): Dyadya? We're about to have company. Somethings happened in New London… Mrs. Esterly & her family are coming to lay low.

Grigori (to Ariadne): Is she? Excellent! I always look forward to seeing Agatha. It will be like the old times. Heh heh.

Ariadne (to Grigori): Heh... Aren't you worried about Bianca & her temper?

Grigori (to Ariadne): Not in the slightest. Agatha has never given me even the slightest amount of attention. I'm not sure if you've noticed this, but I am a bit of a flirt. If Bianca wants to marry me as she says she does, she will have to learn to live with that.

Ariadne (to Grigori): Heehee… You are a brave man, dyadya. We need to turn off the inhibitor field for a little while. They're bringing a bunch of people over & that may take them out for a bit. Throwing the inhibitor into the mix… Well, there's no telling what it'll do.

Grigori (to Ariadne): As you say, sestrenka. I trust your judgement. Will you make the necessary arrangements, or have you already? ;-)

Ariadne (to Grigori): Heh. I have already made the arrangements but I wanted to give you a heads up. I'll turn it back on as soon as they arrive. Where should we put them all? There's about six of them… Two couples, Mrs. Esterly & a little girl.

Grigori (to Ariadne): So we'll need three or four rooms? Eto ne yavlyayetsya problemoy. We can put them in the west wing. Where is Gee staying?

Ariadne (to Grigori): In the room across the hall from Mister Yong's suite. He wanted to keep a close eye on him.

Grigori (to Ariadne): Ha ha ha! That was probably a good idea. Very good. We should have more than enough room in the West wing then.

Ariadne (to Grigori): Alright. I'll go let the concierge know not to book anyone in that section of the hotel… oh… I think they're coming… Tingly.

Grigori (to Ariadne): Heh. You are incredible, sestrenka. Go see to our guests. I will go dote upon Bianca a bit more so she doesn't pout. Too much.

Ariadne (to Grigori): Heh. Will do.

A few minutes later:

Ariadne (to Mrs. Esterly, Nathaniel, Lily, Aiden, Joseph & Persephone): Greetings friends & welcome to the Casino de la Renard. We've got you housed in the West wing.

Nathaniel (to Ariadne): Ouch... Thanks. (to Joseph) Joseph? How you holdin' up?

Joseph (to Nathaniel): … I think I'm going to be sick.

Persephone (to Joseph): Oh, my poor baby! Come on, lean on me.

Nathaniel (to Joseph): Yeah. You look a little green. You'll be alright. (to Ariadne) Heh. Thanks, Hari. First big group, uh, thing for poor Joe.

Ariadne (to Mrs. Esterly, Nathaniel, Lily, Aiden, Joseph & Persephone): Here are your keys. Go get settled. I have room service bringing you some snacks & fresh towels.

Aiden (to Ariadne): Thank you so much for your assistance, Miss Fenris.

Persephone (to Joseph): Come on, sweetie, let's get you settled in bed. (to Ariadne) Thank you.

Nathaniel (to Persephone & Joseph): Coffee and juice! (to Mrs. Esterly & Lily) Um, you guys alright?

Lily (to Nathaniel): This is so amazing!

Mrs. Esterly (to Nathaniel): Hee hee. We're fine, dear.

Ariadne (to Lily): Heh. First time flying Skipper Air, little one? (to Mrs. Esterly) It's nice to see you again, Mrs. Esterly. I'm sorry to say that Mister Rodchenko knows I was sent to keep an eye on him.

Lily (to Ariadne): … Yes. (to Nathaniel) How did you do that?

Mrs. Esterly (to Ariadne): Hello, Hari, dear. It's quite alright. If he were a stupid man, he would have been a terrible spy.

Nathaniel (to Ariadne): Heh. Later, Hari. I think I'm gonna be answering a buncha questions for the rest of the night. (to Lily) It's, uh... Some people can open doors to other places. It's like a portal generator, but something a person can do instead of a machine.

Ariadne (to Nathaniel): Heh. Have fun.

Lily (to Nathaniel): Oh… Wow… You're like a wizard. (to Aiden) Daddy can you do stuff like that?

Aiden (to Lily & Nathaniel): I'm sorry to say that I can't… And, Nate is probably exhausted so ease up on the questions, sweetie.

Mrs. Esterly (to Lily, Aiden & Nathaniel): Hee hee. I'll leave you three to your explanations. I'm going to turn in.

Aiden (to Mrs. Esterly): Good night, Mrs. Esterly.

Nathaniel (to Mrs. Esterly): Yeah. Course. G'night. (to Lily & Aiden) I'm not a wizard, Lil' Bit. Just kinda... Different, I guess. Heh. Ha ha ha! Yeah. Different's a good way to put it...

Lily (to Nathaniel & Aiden): Heehee. I like different. This place is huge like a castle.

Aiden (to Lily & Nathaniel): Come on, family. Let's get you both tucked in.

Nathaniel (to Lily): Hell yeah it is. (to Aiden) Heh. Sounds good to me.

An hour or so later:

Ariadne (to Sang Gi): What are you doing down here, Gee? Shouldn't you be studying or something?

Sang Gi (to Ariadne): Yes… I heard the housekeepers gossiping about some very important new guests arriving. I wanted to check 'em out...

Ariadne (to Sang Gi): There are no single girls your age, so you can go back to your room… Did you talk to the florist today?

Sang Gi (to Ariadne): … Yes. I start tomorrow.

Ariadne (to Sang Gi): That's wonderful! … Why don't you seem happy about it? I thought you wanted to earn some spending money… Or was it really about girls & booze?

Sang Gi (to Ariadne): Look, why does it even matter to you? You have dated my brother for like a minute… Stop sticking your nose where it don't belong!

Ariadne (to Sang Gi): Wait… Gee. I didn't mean anything by it.

A minute later:

Ariadne: Shit… I need a drink.

Ji Yong (to Ariadne): Good evening Ms. Fenris... Is everything alright?

Ariadne (to Ji Yong): Yes… No… I just had a face to face run-in with teenage hormones… My greatest foe.

Ji Yong (to Ariadne): I... I'm afraid I don't understand.

Ariadne (to Ji Yong): Your brother… He just threw a mild tantrum at me. It's probably nothing.

Ji Yong (to Ariadne): ... Ah. Yes. He had been following me around all evening. I told him to go be bothersome someplace else.

Ariadne (to Ji Yong): Oh… When you guys were little did he used to follow you around a lot?

Ji Yong (to Ariadne): Yes, he did. We didn't have many friends in the orphanage... I scared most of the other children.

Ariadne (to Ji Yong): Really? I guess I shouldn't be surprised… Gee told me that I wasn't what he expected your girlfriend to be like. He thought your girlfriend would be quiet, proper and dutiful… I guess, more traditional.

Ji Yong (to Ariadne): More traditional?

Ariadne (to Ji Yong): Not me, basically.

Ji Yong (to Ariadne): Ah. I understand. I suppose he thought I would choose someone unlikely to upset me. As a child I was... Quel est le mot? I lost my temper quite a bit.

Ariadne (to Ji Yong): … Oh really? I find that hard to believe.

Ji Yong (to Ariadne): Yes. I got into fights quite often. When he was about five or so, Gee took an apple off a greengrocer's cart without paying for it. It was rare that we got fresh fruit in the orphanage. The merchant noticed and slapped him. I beat him unconscious. An agent from le Poignard Maison saw the incident. I began training later that same week... Excuse me.

Ariadne (to Ji Yong): Oh… You're going? You tell me something like that & then you're just going to wander off…

Ji Yong (to Ariadne): I apologize. I thought perhaps I had upset you.

Ariadne (to Ji Yong): Look, if I'm upset I'll tell you or show you. I'm not very good at subtle or haven't you figured that out by now. I am not some delicate flower that you have to protect from your profession, past or present… I don't like to talk about myself because I don't like upsetting people & making them feel obligated to say, 'Oh, you poor dear'. But, trust me, whatever you've done or have to do, I understand. We're survivors, you & I.

Ji Yong (to Ariadne): Yes. This is true. I am... I'm not accustomed to speaking about myself much either.

Ariadne (to Ji Yong): Heh. So, I've noticed… When you see your brother will you please tell him that I'm sorry I upset him?

Ji Yong (to Ariadne): Yes. Of course.

Ariadne (to Ji Yong): I should probably get back to work unless you have something else to tell me.

Ji Yong (to Ariadne): ... No. I apologize for monopolizing your time. Excuse me.

Ariadne (to Ji Yong): And here I thought I was monopolizing your time. ;-P

Ji Yong (to Ariadne): Not at all. I enjoy your company, Har... Ms Fenris. Excuse me.

Ariadne (to Ji Yong): Heehee… You don't really want to leave, do you? I bet I could make you stay.

Ji Yong (to Ariadne): I don't doubt that, but I do need to get back to work.

Ariadne (to Ji Yong): Yes, and so do I. But, I can see the tables on one side of the room & you can see the ones on the other… And, you're sexy when you're being all authoritative... Is that a new tie?

Ji Yong (to Ariadne): Yes, it is.

Ariadne (to Ji Yong): It's very nice… Go on, go back to work. I'll stop bugging you.

Ji Yong (to Ariadne): Thank you. The party from Bordeaux is acting very suspicious. ...If you aren't tired after work, I asked the kitchen to make a small cake for you. For your birthday. Gee suggested that I should do something for your birthday that didn't involve guns.

Ariadne (to Ji Yong): Oh. uh, Wow... I don't know what to say... Thank you. That was very thoughtful. I think I could stay awake for that… Oops. Gentleman in the red tie is palming cards. Gotta run.

Ji Yong (to Ariadne): Of course.

A Strange Old World, Day 113

At Casino de la Renard; Nice, French Republic:

Sang Gi (to Bianca & Ariadne): Hello, beautiful ladies. It's a lovely day outside, isn't it? May I join you? I hate eating breakfast alone.

Bianca (to Sang Gi & Ariadne): Well, after an introduction like that, how can we refuse? Sit, please. I'm Bianca. I believe you already know Hari.

Ariadne (to Bianca & Sang Gi): Shhh. Too much talking first thing in the morning.

Bianca (to Sang Gi & Ariadne): Heh. As you can see she is not much of a morning person. My fault really. I wanted company while Grigori is with his physician.

Sang Gi (to Bianca & Ariadne): Well, I'll turn down the volume & the charm… for now. :-)

Ariadne (to Sang Gi): I'd appreciate it. I was up late...

Bianca (to Sang Gi & Ariadne): Heh. I can only imagine why… If you two will excuse me, it looks like Doctor Crow is leaving.

Ariadne (to Bianca): Tell dyadya I'll stop by later to see him, okay? (to Sang Gi) Didn't your brother teach you that it's rude to stare?

Bianca (to Sang Gi & Ariadne): Of course. Enjoy your breakfast… you don't have to get up but I appreciate the gesture.

Sang Gi (to Bianca): It was a delight. (to Ariadne) You are not what I pictured.

Ariadne (to Sang Gi): Oh?

Sang Gi (to Ariadne): I always hoped that Ji Yong would find someone but I always figured he'd find some quiet, very proper, unassuming girl.

Ariadne (to Sang Gi): … I can be quiet. :-P

At Aiden's house; New London, Britannia:

Nathaniel (to Lily): Hey. Breakfast is ready... You OK?

Lily (to Nathaniel): I'm fine, just thinking... Breakfast sounds good. Did Daddy get home alright? I thought he came in & kissed me on the head.

Nathaniel (to Lily): ... Heh. Yeah. That was him. He got back late and wanted to check in on you before we went to bed.

Lily (to Nathaniel): … Do you ask people if they had a nice time at a funeral? Or do you just not say anything? I've never been to one.

Nathaniel (to Lily): ... Good question. No. Not usually. I've never been to a funeral either, but I don't imagine they're much fun. If you're worried 'bout somebody, though, you can always ask them how they're doing or give 'em a hug... I think.

Lily (to Nathaniel): Oh, I can do that… Was Daddy close to the person who died?

Nathaniel (to Lily): No. They worked together, and he didn't like your dad much.

Lily (to Nathaniel): But, Daddy still went to the funeral?

Nathaniel (to Lily): Yep.

Lily (to Nathaniel): … Daddy's a good man, huh?

Nathaniel (to Lily): Heh. Yeah. He's a crazy good man. One of the best I've ever met.

A few minutes later, in the kitchen:

Aiden: Oof… (to Lily) What on earth did I do to deserve that?

Lily (to Aiden): I just thought you could use a hug.

Aiden (to Lily): Well, I can't say no to that. Here, hop up. (to Nathaniel) Is there any tea or coffee made, handsome?

Nathaniel (to Aiden & Lily): Heh. Got it goin' now. We've been waxin' WAY to philosophical for my brain first thing in the morning.

Aiden (to Nathaniel & Lily): Oh really? Anything I should know about?

Nathaniel (to Aiden): Heh. Worried we were gossiping about you? (to Lily)  ;-)

Aiden (to Nathaniel & Lily): Heh. Always. :-P

Lily: Heehee.

Nathaniel (to Aiden & Lily): You should be. We were. We were sayin' that you were a good guy.

Aiden (to Nathaniel & Lily): Who me? You're going to ruin my reputation with talk like that. :-p

Lily (to Aiden): Heehee. You're so silly, Daddy.

Nathaniel (to Lily): Heh. Yeah he is. (to Aiden) Don't worry, I'm sure plenty of people'll still be shocked and scandalized by the company you keep. Coffee. (to Lily) You wanna try some grits, Lilian?

Aiden (to Nathaniel): Thank you, handsome. (to Lily) Don't make that face. You might like them.

Lily (to Aiden & Nathaniel): ... Okay, I'll try them. It just looks kinda funny.

Nathaniel (to Aiden & Lily): Ha ha ha! That is the SAME fuuu--freakin' face you made first time I made grits. Heh. Holy crap... Heh. Now I'm gonna have two of y'all tsking at me when I wanna chili cheese dog or somethin' else delicious.

Lily (to Nathaniel & Aiden): ... Why would you put chili & cheese on a dog?

Aiden (to Lily): HAHA! It's a colonial thing, Lily. Don't worry it's not a real dog... It's like a sausage. (to Nathaniel) And, you can eat whatever you like, Nate. Just be thankful we don't eat the standard British fare or you'd be making faces at us everyday. :-p

Nathaniel (to Aiden & Lily): You kidding? I'm a southerner, man. There's nothing you Brits make that we haven't deep-fried in pork fat. :-P Heh. Keep talkin' like that and I'll take you to Mississippi to prove it.

Lily (to Nathaniel & Aiden): ... Should I leave the room?

Aiden (to Lily): You're fine where you are. Eat your breakfast. We have a big day ahead of us.

Lily (to Aiden & Nathaniel): We do?

Aiden (to Lily): Yes. We're interviewing tutors for you.

Lily (to Aiden & Nathaniel): Oh my goodness! You mean, I don't have to go to school far away? Eeeeee! I love you both so much!

Nathaniel (to Lily): Heh. Calm down. We kinda got the impression that you didn't wanna go to boarding school.

Aiden (to Lily): Yes, it may have had something to do with the letter with bullet points against it. :-p

Lily (to Aiden & Nathaniel): Oh... I'll be the perfect student, I promise.

Aiden (to Lily): Yes, you will or we will revisit the school option again. Deal?

Lily (to Aiden & Nathaniel): ... Deal.

Aiden (to Lily): Good... Now, go get dressed & ready to go. (to Nathaniel) Heh. What's so funny?

Nathaniel (to Aiden): Heh. Nothing. It's not funny... I know which one of us is gonna be the soft touch, that's for damn sure. You're good with her, you know that? Like real damn good.

Aiden (to Nathaniel): It's nothing special. We're a lot alike... Heh. If I didn't know better, I'd think she really was my biological child. Heh. You know, when I was little I used to think Roland was my dad because of the big age difference between us. It would really upset him & my father. Once Theo was born, I kinda forgot about it... Heh. I wonder what made me think of that.

Nathaniel (to Aiden): ... I dunno. If we didn't know for a fact shippin' kids off to baby farms or orphanages was how your dad dealt with unwanted kids, then I'd think it was a possibility. Would explain why you and the Lil' Bit were so much alike... Sick. The idea that fucking Roland would be my father-in-law...

Aiden (to Nathaniel): Heh. You've never met my father, Roland is sadly a bit of an upgrade… I need to go talk to Mrs. Esterly. I'll be right back.

A moment later, in the sitting room:

Aiden (to Mrs. Esterly): Mrs. Esterly? Do you have that list of tutors we're supposed to be interviewing?

Mrs. Esterly (to Aiden): Yes, dear. It's right here.

Aiden (to Mrs. Esterly): Thank you… May I ask you a strange question?

Mrs. Esterly (to Aiden): ... One moment. I can tell something's bothering you. Let me just put this down. What is it?

Aiden (to Mrs. Esterly): … Am I really my mother & father's second child? With Lily being here & our similarities, it got me thinking a bit. And, I recalled that for a short period of time as a child I thought Roland was my father & then the silly fancy ended about the time Theo was born… It would just make a few things make sense.

Mrs. Esterly (to Aiden): ... I'm afraid I can't tell you for certain, dear. Your father certainly never referred to you as anything other than his son.

Aiden (to Mrs. Esterly): And, you never once suspected anything else might be the case?

Mrs. Esterly (to Aiden): Your mother had a difficult pregnancy with Roland. She became pregnant several more times, but kept loosing the babies. Shortly before you were born, she gave birth to a stillborn son. From what I heard, it was very hard on her, dear. I'm so sorry, sweetie. I don't have any good answers for you. Are you asking because of Lilian, or is this because of those awful things your mother used to say to you?

Aiden (to Mrs. Esterly): A little bit of both… Not to mention, everything that has happened with Wilkinson. It must have killed my mother knowing that father's eye wandered especially while she was going through all that.

Mrs. Esterly (to Aiden): ...Your father is not a very -- sensitive man, but I would imagine it was difficult for him as well. People do foolish things when they're hurting. Your mother included, sweetie. I doesn't forgive the awful things she said after Theo died, but she wasn't well. I do know for certain that she loves you, dear. Very much.

Aiden (to Mrs. Esterly): … Yes, I'm sure. That's very nice of you to say, Mrs. Esterly. However, that doesn't change the fact that my mother has refused to see me in years, despite my many invitations or requests. You have been more family to me than any of the people that I am biologically related to… I just want to know the truth so that when Lily wants to know I can answer her questions

Mrs. Esterly (to Aiden): I know, dear. I'm afraid the only people who could answer your question, would be Roland or your father, and I doubt very much we'll get a straight answer out of either of them.

Aiden (to Mrs. Esterly): … We shall see about that. Please give my apologies to Nate & Lily, I'll be back as soon as I can.

Mrs. Esterly (to Aiden): Aiden, Aiden! Wait a moment, dear! 

Persephone (to Aiden): Whoa there, speedy... (to Mrs. Esterly) Where is he going off to in such a hurry?

Mrs. Esterly (to Persephone): Oh good heavens. He's off to stir up some old family ghosts, I'm afraid.

Persephone (to Mrs. Esterly): Why on earth would he do that?

Mrs. Esterly (to Persephone): I really don't know, dear...

Persephone (to Mrs. Esterly): … So, what do we do? Let him stir up trouble or try and stop him before it gets out of hand?

Mrs. Esterly (to Persephone): Go distract Lilian for me, will you? I'll have Nate go fetch him.

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

Mrs. Esterly (to Persephone): Thank you, dear.

A couple minutes later:

Persephone (to Lily): Lilian dear, your fathers had to run a quick errand. Want to make chocolate chip cookies with me while we wait for them?

Lily (to Persephone): Ooo, of course. I love chocolate chip cookies.

Persephone (to Lily): Heehee, I thought you might. Come on. We'll go bring a couple to Joseph when we're done. He's been busily writing.

Mrs. Esterly (to Nathaniel): Nathaniel? I need you to go fetch Master Aiden and bring him home.

Nathaniel (to Mrs. Esterly): What? Why? What the fuck happened?

Mrs. Esterly (to Nathaniel): He's gone to confront either his father or brother about his lineage. He deserves answers, but now is not the time. Tensions are running high, for everyone. Lord Wilkes could still make life difficult for you two if he gets it in his mind to do so.

Nathaniel (to Mrs. Esterly): ...Yeah. OK. I get it. I'll be back as soon as I can.

Mrs. Esterly (to Nathaniel): Don't worry, dear. We'll see to Lilian and any tutors that happen to show up.

At Roland's house; New London, Britannia:

Aiden (to Roland): Roland? Your housekeeper let me in.

Roland (to Aiden): ... Did she? Well, since you're here, what can I do for you, Aiden? Shall I ask Ms. Smithson to fetch us some tea?

Aiden (to Roland): No, thank you, I won't stay long. All this stuff with Wilkinson has made me think about family, our family specifically… Roland, are our parents really my parents?

Roland (to Aiden): What on earth are you talking about?

Aiden (to Roland): I was reflecting on life and our family when I was struck by a childhood memory… I used to call you Daddy when I was very small. And well, some of the nasty things mother used to say to me after Theo was killed. It made me wonder.

Roland (to Aiden): I think you should leave.

Aiden (to Roland): I'm not saying that I think you're my father, Roland. After everything I just did for you & your family, the least you could do is answer my question… I've given up all claims to the Wilkes family title & estates, what does it hurt telling me?

Roland (to Aiden): ... I can't answer your question, Aide.

Aiden (to Roland): So, it's true… I'm not their child. If I was, you'd tell me to stop being ridiculous. I apologize for the intrusion… I'll see myself out.

Roland (to Aiden): You are being ridiculous. Mother and Father are your parents. I understand you haven't always... You haven't had an easy relationship with them, but it hardly means you're not a Wilkes.

Aiden (to Roland): So, that's it, then? Why didn't you just say so in the first place? I knew it was an odd question but this whole Wilkinson debacle just got under my skin.

Roland (to Aiden): I rather think you're not the only one. His body was left on my doorstep... Thank God the children will be at school shortly.

Aiden (to Roland): Yes, I'm sure they'll be much safer there. I am very sorry for the intrusion, Roland. I should go.

Roland (to Aiden): Yes. Good afternoon.

Aiden (to Roland): Good afternoon.

A couple minutes later, on the street:

Nathaniel (to Aiden): There you are. Shit! I figured I didn't get here before you did.

Aiden (to Nathaniel): Nate? What on earth-- Oh, Mrs. Esterly sent you to retrieve me. I'm fine. We can go home, now.

Nathaniel (to Aiden): Yeah. You look it. C'mere. Step back this way for a second...

Aiden (to Nathaniel): Heh... Are you trying to incite a scandal? Because at the moment I'm all for it. Hell, I'm all for faking our deaths & living permanently in West Piedmont.

Nathaniel (to Aiden): Heh. We don't gotta fake our deaths to do that, you know. Clear your head for a second. I should be able to get us...

A moment later, on a beach; Hawaii:

Nathaniel (to Aiden): ... Heh. I wasn't sure that would work.

Aiden (to Nathaniel): Heh. You're amazing.

Nathaniel (to Aiden): Zoe took me here once. Kinda. I mean, she took another me here, another time... You know what I mean. We're in Hawaii. Feel free to keep telling me I'm amazing, though. :-P

Aiden (to Nathaniel): Heh. I'll have to thank her the next time I see her. This is really quite lovely.

Nathaniel (to Aiden): I figured you might need a breather. And I can give you a hug here without causing any kind of a fucking "scandal."

Aiden (to Nathaniel): Yes, thank you... I'm sorry I took off like that. I think realizing that there might be one more lie in the Wilkes closet just bloody well set me off.

Nathaniel (to Aiden): Yeah. I can't blame you for that. What happened?

Aiden (to Nathaniel): Bloody fucking Roland said he couldn't answer my question & then when I said well that answers that, then... He backed up & tried to correct his slip-up. I just played it off like he managed to fool me & then I left. Clearly, there's something scandalous about my birth but they've had my entire life to cover it up. So, unless someone tells me the truth, I may never know. Which is fine. To hell with that whole damn family, anyway.

Nathaniel (to Aiden): C'mere... They don't fucking deserve you, you know that? You're too damn good for that family.

Aiden (to Nathaniel): I love you... You & Lily are the only family I need. Oh shit! Speaking of which... We need to interview tutors.

Nathaniel (to Aiden): I know. Calm down. It's alright; Mrs. Esterly is on it. You ready to go back?

Aiden (to Nathaniel): No... Let's go for a swim.

Nathaniel (to Aiden): ...You wanna... You wanna go swimming?

Aiden (to Nathaniel): Sure. Why not? The ocean is right there. We're all alone on this beach. It'll take my mind off of this shit. Just a quick dip & then we head back... Don't tell me you've never gone swimming before.

Nathaniel (to Aiden): ...Not in the ocean. I've been in pools and rivers and shit before.

Aiden (to Nathaniel): I don't believe it's that much different… Just to be safe, we'll stay close to the beach… I'll give you an incentive. I don't have a bathing suit.

Nathaniel (to Aiden): ...Yeah. I see that. Heh. Hold on. I'm right behind you. You know, I haven't got one either...

Aiden (to Nathaniel): Heh. I was counting on that. ;-)

A couple hours later, at Casino de la Renard; Nice, French Republic:

Ariadne (to Grigori): Good afternoon, dyadya. I've brought you some Gribnoy sup s perlovoy krupoy i syrom for lunch with fresh bread & red wine.

Grigori (to Ariadne): You are too sweet to me, sestrenka. To what do I owe such pampering?

Ariadne (to Grigori): Can't I just be nice to you for no reason? I just thought you might want a taste of home and I worry.

Grigori (to Ariadne): Heh heh. You are right, and I am sorry. Eto vkusno. My sister used to make this soup for me whenever I got a cold. Spasibo hy.

Ariadne (to Grigori): Vy ochen' privetstvuyem… Dyadya, can I ask you a personal question?

Grigori (to Ariadne): Of course.

Ariadne (to Grigori): Who is Antonina? Bianca mentioned her this morning & acted like I should know who she meant but I don't recognize the name.

Grigori (to Ariadne): What did she say about her?

Ariadne (to Grigori): Just that I reminded you of her & that was why you were doting on me… And, that I better not hurt you or I'd regret it.

Grigori (to Ariadne): Oh? Ha ha ha! I think Bianca might actually be growing fond of me, poor woman. ...Antonina was my granddaughter. She would have been a few years younger than you...

Ariadne (to Grigori): Oh… You have a family? I always assumed you were a bachelor.

Grigori (to Ariadne): I am now. I wasn't always.

Ariadne (to Grigori): … Oh. I won't pry if you don't want to talk about it. More wine?

Grigori (to Ariadne): It's alright, Ariadne. I'm an old man, and it's an old wound. My daughter married a beautiful man with a head stuffed full of of fire and idealistic notions. He became embroiled with the Southern Society and the Decembrist uprising, and you know how much our mother country adores revolutionaries. He, my daughter, and their baby girl all disappeared a few months after the uprising.

Ariadne (to Grigori): … I'm sorry.

Grigori (to Ariadne): Eto ne chto inoye. A good life is bound to have as much sadness in it as joy. And if I wasn't so very angry at the Czar, I would have never started passing along information to the Empire, or defected.

Ariadne (to Grigori): If you don't mind me asking, what became of your wife?

Grigori (to Ariadne): Nelly. Heh. We were both very young when we married, little more than poor peasants. I don't think she had quite settled on having a husband and child, and suddenly she found herself with both. She ran off with a Calvary man when Alexandra, our girl, was two years old. If she's still alive, I do hope she's happy.

Ariadne (to Grigori): Oh, dyadya… I understand more than you could ever know. My grandmother ran away from Mother Russia when she fell in love with a man her family would never approve of & then, my mother ran off to become a pirate when my brother & I were small. She remarried and as far as I know is happy. I went looking for her once & couldn't bring myself to bother her. But, you're my family now & I'm quite fine with that. :-)

Grigori (to Ariadne): Heh heh. Their loss is very much my gain, sestrenka.

Ariadne (to Grigori): Heehee… Should I quit working at the casino, dyadya?

Grigori (to Ariadne): What do you want to do?

Ariadne (to Grigori): I like the work. I was just concerned about, well, me & Ji Yong working together. I clearly distract him & that isn't good for business. I'm worried that he won't be his best if he's wondering what I'm doing.

Grigori (to Ariadne): Heh heh. Well, if I were him, I would certainly be distracted working with you. What would you like to do instead?

Ariadne (to Grigori): I have no idea… I love working at the casino & I think I'm good at it. I just thought you might not like it. I mean, he's stellar at his job. It's like watching a predator stalk his prey when he's walking the floor. And, I've noticed a difference since we hooked up. But, if you don't mind, I'd like to stay. I just wanted you to know that I would understand if you needed me to quit.

Grigori (to Ariadne): Sestrenka, I may not be the smartest man, but if there is one thing I have a talent for, it's predicting who will be very good at making me money. You are one of those people. There has been a noticeable increase in profits since you started working. I would be a fool if I asked you to quit. Especially if you enjoy it. I assume you and Mr. Yong will figure out how to work around one another. There is one thing you should think about, sestrenka. Sometimes, Mr. Yong is called on to do something dangerous and violent. Will you be alright with that?

Ariadne (to Grigori): Yes, I think so… I should tell you something, dyadya, since we're being all straightforward with each other… I'm a skipper.

Grigori (to Ariadne): Chto eto? Ah! Like that mercenary who was here the other night... Hooy na ny! That is quite a talent to have. Ha ha ha! I definitely don't want you to quit now. That could be most helpful.

Ariadne (to Grigori): Heh. I thought you might feel that way… But, that's why she decided to try and grab me. She tracks & captures skippers. I thought you should know… And, I know you've turned on an inhibitor field… It should stop most skippers & folks with portal devices. I know a couple skippers who can probably pass through it but they're good people.

Grigori (to Ariadne): I'm more worried about you than what kind of trouble, Delacroix might bring. I'm glad I can offer you a safe haven, sestrenka.

Ariadne (to Grigori): That is very sweet, dyadya… I should go and check on Ji Yong & the younger one. Who knows what trouble he's getting into.

Grigori (to Ariadne): Ha ha! He's more than likely driving Mr. Yong mad. When I first met the boy, I thought there was no way they could be related.

Ariadne (to Grigori): Heehee. You're telling me… If you need anything, ring down to the kitchen or call my room. Okay?

Grigori (to Ariadne): You can count on it. I'm very glad you came to stay with me, my little dove.

Ariadne (to Grigori): I am, too. Now, watch out, I'm coming in for a hug & a kiss.

Grigori (to Ariadne): With pleasure.

A few minutes later:

Ji Yong (to Sang Gi): Absolutely not.

Sang Gi (to Ji Yong): Why not?

Ariadne (to Ji Yong & Sang Gi): … Am I interrupting brother-bonding time? She asks noticing the annoyed face of her gentleman.

Ji Yong (to Ariadne & Sang Gi): No. Gee would like to work behind the bar.

Ariadne (to Ji Yong & Sang Gi): Heehee… Really? Why on earth would you want to do that?

Sang Gi (to Ariadne & Ji Yong): I need some spending money. I'm only here for two weeks. He's got me blacklisted from gambling… What else am I going to do while I'm here? Sit here quietly & twiddle my thumbs… Or should I make friends with one of the girls?

Ji Yong (to Sang Gi): I believe Colette warned them about you already. You could get caught up on your studies. You never get your summer assignments done until the day before you return to class.

Sang Gi (to Ji Yong): … True. But, I have very high marks in all my classes. (to Ariadne) Hari, talk some sense into my brother. Please?

Ariadne (to Sang Gi & Ji Yong): Oh no, I am not getting involved. This is between you two… Though, I do know that the florist around the corner needs a delivery boy while her son is laid up with a broken leg.

Ji Yong (to Sang Gi & Ariadne): There you are. If you would like a job, I'm sure they would be most grateful for your help.

Sang Gi (to Ariadne & Ji Yong): Really? A delivery boy for a flower shop? That's not glamorous at all… But, I want to work with you.

Ji Yong (to Sang Gi): I suspect you're less interested in working with me, and more interested in flirting with women and sneaking drinks while getting paid to do so.

Sang Gi (to Ji Yong): Heh… Just because you acted like a eunuch when you were my age doesn't mean that I have to act like one.

Ariadne (to Ji Yong): Um… Should I go?

Ji Yong (to Sang Gi): I was also working as an assassin. (to Ariadne) No. It's quite alright. I have no intention of debating the issue further.

Sang Gi (to Ji Yong & Ariadne): Fine… I'll go talk to the florist in the morning.

Ji Yong (to Sang Gi): Very good.

Sang Gi (to Ji Yong & Ariadne): I'm going to my room… to study.

Ji Yong (to Sang Gi): As you say.  (to Ariadne) What can I do for you, Hari?

Ariadne (to Sang Gi): Have fun, chicken little. (to Ji Yong) I thought I'd come and check on you & your brother. I was worried he was driving you mad.

Ji Yong (to Ariadne): He is. I'm sure I annoy him just as much.

Ariadne (to Ji Yong): Heh. The little weirdo looks up to you, you know. Not that I blame him, you're pretty damn amazing.

Ji Yong (to Ariadne): ... I don't know what to say about that.

Ariadne (to Ji Yong): Heh. Are you working tonight or can I steal you away for a little while?

Ji Yong (to Ariadne): Not tonight. Is there something you need?

Ariadne (to Ji Yong): Just your company… I bought myself a birthday present & I thought you might want to see me in it… And then, out of it.

Ji Yong (to Ariadne): ... I think I would enjoy that quite a bit.

Ariadne (to Ji Yong): Good. Come with me. I want to celebrate the end of my birthday in style.

Ji Yong (to Ariadne): As you wish... I believe it would be my pleasure.

Meanwhile, at Vernian Industries; Coventry, Britannia:

Carver (to Hiiri): Yes, mistress? You called for us, ma'am?

Hiiri (to Carver): Who is a pain in my bustle who's name rhymes with Board Milks?

Carver (to Hiiri): ... Board Milks? We're not sure we understand, ma'am.

Hiiri (to Carver): It's a game, Carver. Still rhymes with kill… Babble rhymes with rabble… Board rhymes with lord… Milks rhymes with Wilkes. See a pattern?

Carver (to Hiiri): We never were good with games, ma'am. Is there someone you would like us to kill? We hope so, ma'am. We would much prefer that to rhyming, ma'am.

Hiiri (to Carver): Fine. Ruin my fun… I want you to kill Lord Wilkes. That should disrupt the ISS for a bit.

Carver (to Hiiri): With pleasure, ma'am. We're sorry we ruined your fun. You know we're literal minded, ma'am. Other Carver doesn't see the need for "fun" when we have someone to play with, ma'am.

Hiiri (to Carver): Good… Don't fail me this time, Carver. I won't tolerate it a second time.

Carver (to Hiiri): Of course not, ma'am. We wouldn't expect you would. We won't fail, ma'am.

A couple hours later, at Casino de la Renard; Nice, French Republic:

Sang Gi: Merde! Those gentlemen look like bad news. I should get Ji Yong…. (to Ariadne & Ji Yong) Sorry to interr-- Oh. Wow… Uh, what was I saying?

Ariadne (to Sang Gi): Gee! What the fuck!?!

Sang Gi (to Ariadne & Ji Yong): I was looking out the window & I saw a bunch of guys in uniforms heading into the casino. I thought Ji Yong should know… You have beautiful legs, Miss Fenris.

Ji Yong (to Sang Gi): Merde! Stay here! (to Ariadne) Please stay here and keep an eye on Gee.

Ariadne (to Ji Yong): Of course… (to Sang Gi) Sit the fuck down.

Sang Gi (to Ariadne & Ji Yong): But--

Ji Yong (to Sang Gi & Ariadne): There will be no buts! There's a gun strapped under the bed if you need it. I'll be back.

Ariadne (to Ji Yong): We'll be fine. Be careful. (to Sang Gi) Do not go grab the gun, Gee.

A few minutes later:

Ji Yong (to Grigori): We need to clear the casino, sir. Please get to the safe room.

Grigori (to Ji Yong): Of course. (to Bianca) Come along, gorgeous. We should let Mr. Yong do his job.

Bianca (to Grigori): Of course… It's a good thing I came prepared. Lead the way, my bear.

Meanwhile, in Ariadne's suite:

Sang Gi (to Ariadne): Who's Carver again?

Ariadne (to Sang Gi): A douche bag who wears a stupid uniform with a creepy scar.

Sang Gi (to Ariadne): And, you think those guys down there are these CLANNG folks?

Ariadne (to Sang Gi): Possibly… Here, drink this. Let's play cards, grasshopper.

A little while later, in the casino:

Starling (to Delphine): Are you sure this is where the skipper was, Madame?

Delphine (to Starling): Oui, ma petite fille. I don't understand why you had to come with me this time around.

Starling (to Delphine): Because the mistress is tired of your constant failures. She is very disappointed. It's not good when she is disappointed.

Delphine (to Starling): My work involves a certain amount of finesse. And, storming into a casino with guns blazing is not the way to do it.

Ji Yong (to Delphine & Starling): You are trespassing. You should leave now.

Starling (to Ji Yong & Delphine): … But, sir, I'm trying to find my mommy… Can you help me find her?

Ji Yong (to Delphine & Starling): You have until the count of three to leave the premises.

Delphine (to Ji Yong & Starling): I was hoping to meet up with you again, mon chere… Where's la petite ballerine?

Ji Yong (to Delphine & Starling): One...

Starling (to Ji Yong & Delphine): … Oh, it's a game… Two...

Delphine (to Starling & Ji Yong): Oh, merde… I don't think I like this game, ma petite.

Ji Yong (to Delphine & Starling): I did try to warn you... Three.

Starling (to Ji Yong): Thank you, sir… She annoyed me.

Ji Yong (to Starling): You're an automaton.

Starling (to Ji Yong): Surprised?

Ji Yong (to Starling): Not particularly. I assumed.

Starling (to Ji Yong): I was told that Madame Delacroix overstepped herself the last time she was here. I was told to bring her here for punishment. My mistress holds your employer in high regard. Apparently, he once helped her many years ago.

Ji Yong (to Starling): ... Very good, miss. Will you be taking your leave?

Starling (to Ji Yong): Yes… We'll take the body. Please tell Mister Rodchenko that Hiiri sends her regards. (to Soldiers) You two, clean up this mess.

Ji Yong (to Starling): Will you be taking the other bodies as well?

Starling (to Ji Yong): … Are they important?

Ji Yong (to Starling): ... Apparently not. We will take care of this. Please advise your employer that if she wishes to utilize our services to "discipline" her employees again, that she will have to pay. Emptying the casino costs us quite a bit of money.

Starling (to Ji Yong): … Here. This is should more than cover the cost. If it doesn't, feel free to send her an invoice. Good night, sir.

Ji Yong (to Starling): Merci. Good evening.

A short time later, in Ariadne's suite:

Ji Yong: Are you two well? (to Ariadne) … You cannot shoot me with the safety on, Hari.

Ariadne (to Ji Yong): God, you scared me! I didn't want to shoot you. Are you okay? Shit! Are you hurt? … I may have slipped your brother a Mickey. He was trying to distract me so that he could follow you. I promise he'll wake up feeling refreshed.

Ji Yong (to Ariadne): I'm fine. I don't believe any of this blood is mine... Thank you for watching over Gee. I need to go speak to Mr. Rodchenko. The casino will have to be closed for the rest of the evening while we clean up the mess.

Ariadne (to Ji Yong): Do you need me to do anything?

Ji Yong (to Ariadne): No. ... Mlle Delacroix will no longer be an issue for you in the future.

Ariadne (to Ji Yong): … Oh. I'm guessing she's dead, huh?

Ji Yong (to Ariadne): ... Yes.

Ariadne (to Ji Yong): Good… Can you help me get Gee on the sofa before you go?

Ji Yong (to Ariadne): Of course... I appreciate you watching over him. I would not have wanted him to see... If you don't want to see me after this. I would understand.

Ariadne (to Ji Yong): What are you talking about, Ji Yong?

Ji Yong (to Ariadne): I just killed three men, and a woman... I thought that might bother you.

Ariadne (to Ji Yong): Sorry to disappoint you, Ji Yong. But, I think you might be stuck with me.

Ji Yong (to Ariadne): ... Oh. I... I don't believe I was expecting that... I'm glad. Excuse me. I should go make a report to Mr. Rodchenko.

Ariadne (to Ji Yong): Wait a second. I need a hug... I'm glad you're okay.

Ji Yong (to Ariadne): ... Oh. Yes. I, uh, I... Yes.

Ariadne (to Ji Yong): You should probably go & see the bossman. And, I should go find a pillow & a blanket for your brother.

Ji Yong (to Ariadne): Yes. Of course. Excuse me.

Ariadne: … I think I love that man.

A short time later, in the panic room:

Ji Yong (to Grigori & Bianca): Mr. Rodchenko? ...Excuse me. I didn't mean to interrupt. The floor is clear. Housekeeping is cleaning up.

Grigori (to Ji Yong): Thank you, Mr. Yong. I hope you won't blame us if we stay here.

Bianca (to Grigori & Ji Yong): Heh… I may have been distracting Grigori during this time of imminent danger.

Grigori (to Bianca & Ji Yong): It's quite alright. It's the way I've always wanted to exit this mortal coil.

Ji Yong (to Grigori & Bianca): ... As you say, sir. I'll oversee everything. Excuse me.

Bianca (to Grigori): Marry me, my bear… Make me a somewhat honest woman.

Grigori (to Bianca): Heh. Marry you? Come now, radiant one. You know it's just a matter of time before you get bored with this tired old man.

Bianca (to Grigori): … How many years have I been spending the summer with you, my bear? I have had many offers from gentleman who could afford to pay me three times what you pay, but I CHOOSE to stay with you. You have always been for me. You make me feel like a lady and not just a courtesan… I am growing tired of this life & want to retire. I have saved quite a bit of money over the years… I want to partner with you in more ways than one, if you'll have me.

Grigori (to Bianca): Bianca, my glory, I have never treated you like anything more or less than the wonderful woman you are. Stay with me. Spend a year with me as my partner. I can be a difficult, stubborn man, and I am far too entrenched in my ways to change. If after a year, you still want to marry, I will throw you a wedding such as Nice has never seen.

Bianca (to Grigori): You have yourself a deal, my Russian bear… When this year is up, you'll be begging me to stay.

Grigori (to Bianca): Heh heh. I certainly hope so.

Bianca (to Grigori): Do you not think I am up to the challenge?

Grigori (to Bianca): Oh no. I KNOW you're up to the challenge, my dear. Why else would I be grinning like this?

Bianca (to Grigori): Heh. Come here, mijn man te zijn. I'm going to show you why you want to keep me around… I'll be gentle. ;-)

Grigori (to Bianca): Heh heh. You'd best be, or Doctor Crow will scold me again.

Bianca (to Grigori): Well, we can't have that now, can we?

Grigori (to Bianca): Heh. not at all.

On the street; New London, Britannia:

Carver: Heh. That was... That was most enjoyable. Wasn't it, Other Carver? Yes. Yes it was.

An hour or so later, in Ariadne's suite, Casino de la Renard; Nice, French Republic:

Sang Gi: Huh? Où diable suis-je? (to Ariadne) Did you drug me?

Ariadne (to Sang Gi): What? No… I think I just made the drink too strong. We were playing cards & you fell asleep. Sorry about that. Feel free to stay. The crisis is over.

Sang Gi (to Ariadne): … So, you do like me.

Ariadne (to Sang Gi): Back the hell up, puppy. You are such a dog… But, not the one I want. So, can it.

Sang Gi (to Ariadne): But, Ji Yong is such a wet blanket and acts like such an old man. You're all vibrant & alive.

Ariadne (to Sang Gi): You don't know what you're talking about, Gee… And, I happen to love him so I'd appreciate it if you'd stop with the come-ons.

Sang Gi (to Ariadne): … Oh… I had no idea. I'm sorry. Wow... Does he know?

Ariadne (to Sang Gi): No… And, keep it to yourself.

Sang Gi (to Ariadne): … Why wouldn't you want to tell him?

Ariadne (to Sang Gi): You wouldn't understand… I don't want to be a liability to him.

Sang Gi (to Ariadne): Heh. Me neither… It'll be okay.

A short time later, in the casino:

Ji Yong (to Ariadne): ... Hari. I wasn't expecting to see you here. Is everything alright? Do you need something?

Ariadne (to Ji Yong): Everything is fine. I was just wondering if you needed any help... Heh. It's stuff like this which is the reason I don't do birthdays. I was really looking forward to it too, for the first time in years.