"Are we sure about this," a younger woman with a clipboard asks as she stares at the machine sprawling out on the level below her. Workers scuttle this way and that to put on the finishing touches. "It seems like…" She turns from her spot on an overhead catwalk and looks at the blonde-haired leader towering over all of it next to her, freezing up a bit.

"It seems like what?" Commander Abbot inquires, quirking her eyebrow.

The assistant knows she must keep going now, taking a deep breath before plunging. "It seems like it might just make her angrier honestly. And I think we've long chipped away any sort of good will she could have towards us."

Abbot reflects on this a minute, silent. "Are we ready yet?!" she barks suddenly to the gathered workers, making one drop something in shock.

"Five minutes," one speaks up. "Just five more minutes."

"May I remind you I was told that five minutes ago!"

He flinches, hands going up on instinct. "Yes, I know. And we're sorry. But… but it's a lot. We're going off an energy we've only studied from a large distance and we need to make sure we don't rip a hole in the fabric of reality when we activate the character… magnet."

"I don't care what we rip so long as it gets me a character! Now get back to work before I lose my patience!" Everyone instantly starts moving again.

XXX

Meanwhile, the one and only Lori Fitzgerald is sitting on a blanket outside next to her dorm building, enjoying the sunshine as she looks through some of her notes. Her best friend Charlie Prescott is next to her as well as Rachel Ellis and Finch Hale.

Finch glances up. "I still don't understand why with all the proven and clear studies on the effects sun has on a person's wellbeing that you insist we spend time in direct path of its rays."

Lori shrugs, mind clearly in her notes as she fiddles with the patchwork scarf firmly wrapped around her neck. "It's a human thing."

Rachel shoots her a look. "Rephrase please."

Lori instantly looks up, nodding as she realizes what she just said. "Sorry. I didn't mean it like that. You know I didn't. We just for some reason… like to be outside on days like this. It feels good. It is good to be outside rather than just lurk indoors all the time. We try to enjoy days like this while we have them." She glances at Rachel with a smirk. "You might just be the best thing that's ever happened to her."

"I take my best friend duties seriously," she nods, feeling along the pages of her book. Finch seems to freeze up at those words. Charlie notices, but decided not to do anything here and now except elbow Lori so she notices too. The two nod at one another and the emotion quickly disappears from Finch as she looks back up.

"Maybe I can understand the sentiment one day. I must gather more data on this subject."

"Better hurry up," Rachel declares. "We won't be having many more like this. Besides, we have to get to practice soon. Can't keep Robert waiting," she sighs dreamily.

"The boy could have acne and buck teeth for all you know," Lori shakes her head.

"But he doesn't. I can tell." Rachel pauses. "Right Finch?"

"Robert Rowell has neither acne nor buck teeth. His teeth are very straight from three and a half years of braces and he uses a daily face cream to prevent acne from occurring." She sees everyone is staring at her, even Rachel. "It is easy to find traces on his skin and I accessed his dental records before deciding if he was safe in becoming my friend."

Rachel takes a beat before quickly changing the topic. "Besides, I can tell he's beautiful on the inside. I'm automatically deep because I can't judge by outer beauty- just the personality I get with the other four senses."

"Does that line actually work?" Lori questions.

"It would… if I did try it on someone…"

Charlie is still looking at Finch in amazement. "Just when I think you can't get any cooler."

XXX

The worker nods at Abbot, who can't help but give a smirk. "Turn it on. Let's get a character here and then contact her. If she wants to learn her lesson and send them home, well then she'll just have to cooperate with us to even see them."

Everyone nods, clearing out, and then the assistant hesitantly throws the switch behind them, cutting the power to the entire building for a moment. A glow centers around the machine, sparking erratically in and out but continuing to grow bigger. Then with the last pulse a loud thud is heard below before it goes dark.

"Get the power back up!" Abbot barks. "Let's see who we've got!"

XXX

Hannah Frost is sitting at her desk typing away when the book perched on her roommate's bed begins to bounce up and down. She pumps her fist a moment before running over to it, grabbing it just as a bright light emits from it for a moment just like usual. However, she's too busy running down the halls to miss the sputter of a second flash a moment later- running out the door to where the others are gathered on their blanket.

"Well, look who decided to join us, Ms. My Wi-Fi Won't Work Outside," Lori quips with a smile. She then notices the book dangling at her side. "And here I thought I was going to have a day off."

"Silly you," Charlie shakes his head.

"Silly me indeed," she echoes, rising to her feet before pulling her best friend to his. She pulls out her phone. "You two can still go to practice for now. No need to be on red-alert just yet."

"You're sure?" Rachel inquires.

Lori nods. "Grab Jess if you see her there. She still refuses to give me her number."

"Just stop calling her President's Daughter. That was the condition," Hannah comments.

Lori doesn't even consider it. "Never. I don't make the rules after all. I'll text the boys- "Her phone starts to ring and she picks it up. "Hey Michael. It just- oh. Awesome. We'll be right over." She hangs up. "He appeared in their room luckily. Andy's with him now. Nobody to worry about."

"We will meet you there later then after our rehearsal," Finch nods, before leading Rachel off with her. The others fold the blanket and start back for the dorm building.

Hannah sees Lori playing with her scarf as a group of students pass them with blankets of their own. She puts a hand on her arm. "No one can tell. Promise."

"I know," Lori agrees. "I just… haven't adjusted… to having a big ass scar around my neck I can't explain so I need to hide." She sighs. "Maybe Rachel was right. I should go find a blind guy who won't notice or care."

"I can think of someone else who wouldn't care," Hannah whispers to herself. Lori turns to her. "Nothing. Just saying you're being a bit ridiculous."

"An evil witch slit my throat and nearly caused me to bleed out," she counters. "I get to be overdramatic as I want because I'm sure you'd take it compared to the alternative." Hannah has nothing to counter, so Lori points at her in triumph before continuing.

"You can complain all you want to me," Charlie makes clear. Lori ruffles his hair.

"I know, buddy. I know."

"So, who have we got?" Charlie asks, curiosity too much for him.

"Only the greatest cowboy the West had to offer," Lori clues him in as they enter the building. "One might even say rootinest tootinest."

"Woody?" Charlie asks and Lori nods. "Awesome!"

"Agreed," Hannah concurs. "I've been waiting for him or Buzz for forever. Those movies were my childhood. I grew up as Andy did."

XXX

The lights finally come up on the building as Abbot navigates down the stairs to the floor where the machine rests. As soon as she can see the handle she throws it open, revealing a figure hunched over in the corner of the small room inside. He unconscious but she can clearly make out who it is.

"Call her!"

XXX

"Listen," Charlie argues as they approach the door. "Just because I'm not as old as you guys doesn't mean I can't appreciate Toy Story the same way you do."

Hannah shakes her head. "No, it means exactly that."

Lori crosses her arms. "And who are you calling old?" Charlie goes to appease her when her phone rings. She raises an eyebrow at the contact. "Why the hell would…?" She picks is up. "Shawn?" Her face instantly hardens and she goes to hang up. "Okay, fake numbers is just a new low! Tell Commander Dracula-!"

Something makes her pause though. "What do you mean you're going to put the character on the line? We have- hello?" There is a pause before her eyes widen and she drops the phone. "Holy cow!"

"What?" Charlie asks clearly concerned. "What's wrong?"

"What does the she demon want?" Hannah narrows her eyes. "To kill another one of us."

Lori shakes her head, looking up at the two of them. "They have another character."

"But Woody's- "

"I know. But I heard that voice. I know that voice."

"It could've just been the movie," Charlie guesses.

"Definitely not saying lines from the movie."

"Is it Buzz?" Hannah questions. "We've had pairs of characters before."

Lori sighs. "Unless we live in a world where Woody and the Lone Ranger somehow crossed over I doubt it." They take that in, both of their eyes widening just a bit at the realization. "Yeah. That face. We might be in trouble."

XXX

So Follow Me Down

Lori Fitzgerald stands with a glowing Disney Encyclopedia. She makes her sword appear and pulls out her phone.

Where To?

Charlie Prescott examines his map and grabs his flashlight from the closet.

Outta This Town

Hannah Frost is typing away at her computer when she receives the massage and leaps off to grab her coat.

With You

Ben Prescott adjusts his tie as he wheels himself out the door.

Girl, You're Movin Way Too Slow

Kaity Klingbeil is drawing pictures of the group absently in her dorm room when her phone vibrates, instantly grabbing her attention.

So Follow Me Down

Michael Harms grabs his First Aid backpack and throws it on his shoulders, waving to Jen and Sara as he goes.

Which Way?

Finch Hale is in class with Robert and Karen when she puts the two fingers to her temple and her eyes glaze.

Down, Down, Down

Rachel Ellis is performing onstage when her phone rumbles in her boot.

I'll Show You Around

Andrew Parker runs out the door, nearly tripping, removing his magician's cap from his head.

Okay

Jess Timmermans strides out of the Art Building at her own pace, clearly annoyed.

There's a Place We Gotta Go

Follow Me, Follow Me

Fa La La La La

Lori, Charlie, Hannah, Michael, Ben, Kaity, Finch, Rachel, Andrew, and Jess are all running through the preserve in a tight group, eyes looking every which way.

Follow Me, Follow Me

Fa La La La La

Lori comes to an abrupt halt and the others crash into her, sending them all to the ground.

Lori Disney? (Not Likely!)

Episode Seven: Couldn't Call Myself His Friend

XXX

"Alright, everyone, that completes our blocking for today," Dr. John, Trinity's theatre professor, claps his hands to gather the attention of the students both on stage and in the seats of the theatre. "We'll pick up back at this scene Wednesday. Look at the schedule to see if you've been called in. Have a great one."

Finch hops off the stage, eyes narrowed with purpose, and proceeds to help Rachel down without hesitation, grabbing both of their things. She begins to exit the theater at a quick pace, Rachel almost jogging to keep up with her. "Finch, what's-?"

"Hey Finch." They both turn to see Robert Rowell jogging to catch up to them. "Where's the fire?"

Rachel's smile brightens. "I was just saying the same thing. You were great by the way, Rob."

"Ah, I haven't really done a lot of work on the character yet," he shrugs. "It's hard to be the straight man sometimes. I have to work on balancing it so that I'm reacting properly but not over the top."

"Well, maybe sometime we can run some lines," Rachel suggests. "Help each other out with finding that balance. In fact, we're not up to anything right now. Maybe we can all go to the café and grab some coffee. Finch?"

The projection shakes her head. "Negative. I have a task I was notified of during practice that must be completed promptly for my friend, Lori Fitzgerald. It's of critical importance."

"Well, then we'll let you get to it. Lori got injured last week and still needs a bit of help with things," Rachel tries to deflect.

"Oh, is she okay?" he instantly questions concerned. "I hope she's okay. I mean, she seems to get put through the ringer an awful lot from what I've observed. And she seems like a nice… if you're friends with her then she has to be special."

Rachel waves him off. "She'll be fine. She is fine. Lori's special. She is tough as nails… I'm pretty sure she actually eats nails. But anyway, what do you say Robert? Finch is out but how about we grab some coffee and study some character?"

"Actually, I really appreciate the offer but I have some Trigonometry homework I really need to get cracking on. I might end up texting you later if that's alright Finch." The projection merely nods. "Excellent. Talk to you later then. Bye Rachel."

She waves at him as he heads for the door. "Bye Rob!" She waits a beat before elbowing Finch. "I think he was a little shy and I may have been a bit strong, but I think overall that went well. Lay the groundwork you know. Have a few cups of coffee and then maybe ask him out to dinner or something. I think it could work. He seemed to be receptive. I think he was. What do you think? Do you think he likes me?"

"I'm not the one to ask about these sorts of matters." Finch starts for the other door.

Rachel follows with a sigh. "I suppose I should have expected that. But hey, you started dreaming. You might learn and grow into romantic relationships. Find the right guy… or girl. I'm fine with either. We have no clue the limits of your programming yet."

"I have no desire to embark on such discovery."

Rachel can see she's getting nowhere. "So what's the mission Lori has you going on? I'm imagining it involves a visit to DIZ and Commander Dracula."

"DIZ has obtained a character and Lori Fitzgerald requested I be the one to visit and secure him. She is still keeping her distance from their headquarters as discussed despite their insistence she be the one to make contact."

"That's probably for the best. They want her so we need to make sure to keep her as far away as possible. Who's the character?"

"The Lone Ranger," someone answers, and they both look to see Ben Prescott has entered the building with a reluctant Jess Timmermans trailing with a large bag on her back.

"For the record, we didn't come here together," Jess makes clear. "This is completely coincidence. I probably wouldn't walk with him if he asked. Thought I suppose you don't walk when I think about it."

"Feeling's mutual Timmermans," Ben grits out, still a little animosity between them. "But, it's the Lone Ranger. Which is odd considering Michael and I were both there when Woody appeared in our dorm."

"Two characters?" Rachel questions, crossing her arms. "We've had that once or twice before though."

"Not two characters unrelated to one another," Finch reminds her. "This is most concerning. I am currently going to DIZ so I can obtain The Lone Ranger from them and begin the learning process." Something crosses her mind that adds a bit of lightness to her next request. "Maybe you would like to accompany me Benjamin Prescott. It always benefits to have numbers when confronting figures such as Commander Abbot."

"I'm actually going to meet up with Kaity right now. She's been working so hard on fixing her painting I thought I would break things up for her and take her out to dinner. Especially now that we've both made our way to the fringes yet again."

"You quit over a temper tantrum and she almost killed Lori," Jess reminds him. "Like on death's door and you only have your little brother to thank we're not a funeral right now almost killed Lori."

"Yeah. Good thing Charlie didn't completely freeze up when we were in the clutches of the villain," Rachel digs. Jess just glares daggers at her. "Sorry rookie. You had that coming. Because when you fight a dragon together… you stick up for one another. Something you might learn if you actually participate."

"But the only ones who encountered the dragon were-"

"Don't ruin my point Finch!"

Ben regains control of the conversation. "Anyway, you'll be fine on your own right Finch? Lord knows you'll be better off without me dragging you down. The last time I went down there I kind of lost my head to be perfectly honest."

"Alright," Finch hides her disappointment well. Rachel barely notes it but Jess gives a look in her direction. "I can agree it is very necessary to be there for Kaitlyn Klingbeil during this time and she is very lucky to have you as such a big part of her life."

"Thanks Finch," Ben takes the compliment up-front. "I really appreciate it. I guess I'll see all of you later then." With that, he wheels off down the hallway towards the Art portion of the building.

"I shouldn't have mentioned the walking thing," Jess says to herself once he's gone. "I realize that now. God, this is why I don't do people. They're so sensitive."

Rachel turns to Finch, who is still looking where Ben left. "Hey. I can come with you if you want someone to have your back."

Finch shakes her head. "I should be able to manage. You don't have to come."

Rachel nods, trying not to be disappointed. "Sure. I get it. You're trying to secure a character from our sworn enemies and the last thing you want is the blind girl holding you back. I completely get it."

"And I'm out," Jess declares, starting away. "I'm not putting up with any of you guys and your drama. I've made myself that promise right now."

"I did not mean it in that way naturally. I just didn't want to disrupt the course of your day. You had mentioned studying lines and I wanted to make sure you accomplished your goals. But of course you can join me," Finch interjects quickly, sincere. "You will be a great asset to have when negotiating with Commander Abbot. Jessica Timmermans could also-"

"Skip!" Jess shouts before vanishing around the corner with a sarcastic peace sign. "I've got things I need to do."

"She'd hold us back anyway," Rachel dismisses. "Now let's get going and get us a Lone Ranger." She laces her arm through Finch's and they head out the door. "Go in there and represent just what a blind Companion is capable of… when she has her handy best friend projection by her side of course."

"Of course."

XXX

Kaity Klingbeil is painting up a storm in the Art Studio, getting a bit frustrated as her repeated layering isn't doing much to cover the dark line the still runs down the middle of her work. She wipes her brow with a sigh of frustration before diving back into adding yet another layer.

"It's starting to come along," Ben offers as he wheels in. She smirks.

"And it's got a long way to go." She sets down the brush and takes a seat in his lap. "To what do I owe this visit?"

"Can't a boyfriend just come visit the girl he loves?"

"He can… except when that couple is us." He tries to look insulted, but with one raised eyebrow from her he reaches under his wheelchair.

"I thought you might like a visit from our newest friend." A moment later he gently sets Woody on the table. "It's alright Woody. She's one of us."

The toy instantly blinks to life, dusting himself off as he rises. "Excellent. Doing that is actually a lot harder than it looks." Kaity lets out a cry of near glee that makes Ben smile.

"Ben, Woody from Toy Story is standing on the table right now."

He kisses the top of her head and she bolts up to stand next to him. Woody extends a hand that she shakes. "It's a pleasure, ma'am."

"Kaity please. I'm such a big fan. This… this is so cool. Is he our first-?"

"We had Bo Peep before you came along. She was one of our first real lessons in sticking together… back when it was just the five of us." He crosses his arms and leans back in the chair. "Charlie was debating graduating early. I learned I had an extra two years. Lori and Hannah were battling what would become Finch."

Kaity gives him a punch in the arm. "Look at you getting all nostalgic."

"It's just… it feels a lot longer ago than it really was. It used to be five and now we've doubled. And things were different back then… it was newer and we weren't as experienced. We hadn't quite found our groove with one another. We weren't a team let alone a family. In fact, this was a time when Lori never hugged Charlie."

"Bullshit." She looks at Woody. "Sorry."

"I'm not kidding," Ben insists with his hands up. "I told you things weren't the same. Then just as we started to figure it out along came people to make it infinitely better. You see, when we met Merlin he set up a table for us with these empty chairs. He tried to play it off, but he knew pieces of us were missing even back then. That we weren't the group we were meant to be yet. And now that I think about it… this is the group we were meant to be."

"Not that I don't love hearing all this, I think everyone loves the stories before they came, but you're giving a pretty big speech here. Wouldn't you agree cowboy?"

"Indeed I would."

"Kaity, I'm pretty sure you haven't talked to a single Companion bar myself and Rachel since we got back from the mirror."

She blows the hair from in front of her eye. "I should have seen this coming. Backstory as a trap. I knew it."

"She's fine is all I'm saying. There's nothing to beat yourself up about. We made her that scarf and she's coping. And I'm sure she misses having you around. Right now she's probably getting more of Timmermans than anyone can handle."

Kaity goes back to her painting. "She has to wear a scarf in public now because I nearly got her killed. Forgive me for giving her some space to work through that."

"Lori's not the space type. You know that. She's the talk it out and move on type. She doesn't have the time, energy, or sanity for anything else."

"I'll talk to her, okay? I just… need to work out what to say first. How to properly apologize for the fact that one of my very best friends was bleeding out in front of me and it was completely my doing."

Ben rolls up to her. "It was the Evil Queen. She cast the spell. Not you. Lori knows that. It's one thing to beat yourself up over something big, but this isn't worth torturing yourself over. You've been on this roller coaster enough times to know that. She wants all of us together… united. She needs each and every single one of us… the whole table. Because everyone has an important piece of the puzzle." He takes a beat before continuing when she doesn't speak up. "I'm just speaking from experience. She's forgiven me for a lot myself."

"Listen, I get it. This is a habit with me. I do something and beat myself up about it. But her forgiving me doesn't make me forgive myself," Kaity fires back. Ben nods.

"That's true. And that's why I brought him by, because I get the feeling he came here to meet you."

Woody looks a bit perplexed by this. "Sorry, partner, but I'm afraid that's not the case." Ben turns to look at him surprised. "When you explained it to me back there it made sense, but after your story I've come to a different conclusion."

"And what's that?" Kaity inquires.

"Well, I believe I'm here to help Ben."

"What do I need a lesson on?" Ben questions, clearly not understanding in the slightest. "I cleared everything up with Lori last week. We're on good terms. There's nothing for me to do."

"I don't believe that," Woody explains carefully. "Because I do think from my observations before that you're neglecting someone very important." Ben has no response, so Woody adjusts his hat and decides to go for it. "You have a very important job when you're someone's first friend- like myself with Buzz. You lay a lot of the groundwork for what they can expect with others. They look to you a lot of times for a lot of things… and you have to be there to support them. I personally got off on the wrong foot and showed him a lot of the wrong things. I realized my mistake though and now I think I'm here to help you see yours."

"Sorry, but who exactly are you talking about? Because you lost me."

Woody sighs. "Ben, I'm talking about Finch."

"That's ridiculous. Finch and I are just fine. I just talked to her out in the hallway. You were there."

"I was," Woody agrees. "And I couldn't help but see she feels like she can't rely on you when she needs you. Which is a shame considering that from what I understand you're the very person who taught her what being a friend means."

"I've had enough," Ben cuts him off. "Finch and I are fine. You're here for Kaity. I'll leave you two be to talk things out. I'll be back in a bit to take you out for dinner." With that, he wheels himself out of the room. Kaity turns to Woody and just shakes her head.

"He has other redeeming qualities, I swear."

Woody just shakes his head. "Trust me, I know a thing or two about delusions. He'll come around." He sits on the edge of the table. "Otherwise, I'm going to have to become friends with that alligator Charlie has in his bed. And something tells me he's not a big conversationalist."

"Unfortunate side effect of lack of magic in these parts."

Woody just sighs, kicking his boot on the table. But then he forces himself to perk up, adjusting his hat. "Well, I'm of no use waiting around here."

"Hold up there, cowboy. Give me a few and then I'll walk you back, okay?" Woody nods and Kaity goes back to her art.

"There must be magic in these parts, because that painting… it's pretty amazing that you did all that."

Kaity can't help but blush. "God, you almost make we want to live in the chivalry of Western times. But then I think of the corsets and lack of hygiene. It's enough to turn that switch back around real fast."

"I could see you as a cowgirl like Jessie."

"That might just be the nicest compliment I've ever been given, especially considering that was my dream when I was little. There wasn't much West left to explore though, so I ended up going with Art. I still have her hat hanging up in my closet at home though. But you can't tell anyone that."

Woody puts a hand up. "Your secret's safe with me," he vows, settling back down to watch her paint up a storm.

XXX

Finch and Rachel descend the stairs, coming up the secretary from before as she scribbles at her desk. "We are here to obtain the character Commander Abbot acquired for Lori Fitzgerald."

She doesn't even look up. "Third door on the right. We've been keeping him sedated after he shot one of our officers with the pistol he brought through with him. Apparently he doesn't miss." Both of them stand hesitantly, causing her to look up. "Well?"

"We just weren't-"

"Why the hell is Commander Abbot making this so easy?" Rachel sums up. "We were expecting some sort of negotiation or deal to be forced. Which we would break of course but we're kind of insulted you're not trying."

"Exactly why we are complying," the secretary states. "Besides, we have no use for the character. The lesson and responsibility falls on those with the book. Which is Ms. Fitzgerald. Funny how she sends you to pick him up though."

"Funny how Commander Dracula isn't here to greet us either," Rachel counters.

"Commander Abbot is otherwise occupied right now."

"Sure she is. Let's just say we'll be searching him for bugs before we leave." Rachel taps Finch on the arm and the two start making their way down the hallway. Finch is keeping her two fingers to her temple.

"Commander Abbot is indeed currently not on the premises. This is beginning to indeed feel like some sort of trap."

Rachel raises an eyebrow. "Then where the hell is she?"

XXX

Michael Harms is making his way down the hallway towards the girl's dorm, dressed up in a pair of blue scrubs and large bag on his shoulder. He comes to a halt at a door before theirs, walking up to it and holding his hand up as if to knock. He seems to think better of it though and lets his hand drop, trying to force deep breaths as he keeps walking.

He is barely a few steps when the door is thrown open. "I said get out!" The voice is pure fury and it is enough to make Michael double back. "I'm not answering any of your damn questions!"

He runs to the doorway and freezes at the sight. Jolene Dean stands with a uniformed guard holding each of her arms back. She is currently staring off with the one and only Commander Abbot, who is looking at her with a very smug expression. "Let go of me! I said let go!"

"Hey!" Michael attracts their attention. He holds his phone up. "You guys have some nerve. She is six doors down the hall and if you don't let her go this instant she will be in here with the sword before you can say Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious."

Abbot takes a moment before nodding at her goons, who promptly release Jolene and send her crashing to the floor. "Now get out like she said," Michael adds, nodding towards the door. Another tense beat follows before Abbot listens, starting for the door. "You have some nerve showing up here after what you did to Caleb. You don't deserve to even look at her, let alone speak to her."

Abbot smirks. "We both know who is truly responsible for the unfortunate death of Mr. Dean."

He just stares her down. "They're standing in this room. But that's okay, because they're never going to come near his cousin again."

"Or maybe they're the ones who let him participate when he couldn't read the book," Abbot offers. Michael doesn't even flinch, hand hovering over dialing Lori. "You're all so protective of her. It amazes me. She moves her pawns into all the right places so that she can control the board without ever putting in an appearance. And now she's even added the President's daughter herself to her ranks to secure any move we may make. She plays the game very well, doesn't she?"

"That's because she knows this isn't a game. And maybe if you did the same, Caleb would be standing right here next to me."

"Hmm. Well, she'd better watch herself. Because if this isn't a game than I fear things will be over very quickly. Because I have plans of my own after all and I doubt a handful of children would be able to stop me. See you soon, Mr. Harms." With that, she vanishes around the corner with her guards. Michael waits a moment before pocketing his phone and running to Jolene. "Hey. Are you alright?"

She shoves him off, getting up herself. "I didn't tell them anything if that's what you want to know."

"What?" he questions. "No. Doesn't matter even if you had. I'm asking if you're okay. You're the part that matter here."

"Well, I'm fine." She runs a hand up and down her arm. "They just wanted to see if I would be willing to volunteer any information about you guys and that book. I told her I had nothing to offer. And that's that." She sighs. "You didn't have to come running in here like some kind of hero."

He steps towards her, comforting. "Jolene, they had no right to be here. They had no right to talk to you after everything they've done."

"I don't need saving, Michael!" she shouts, snapping. "Especially not from you! You said she doesn't get to say his name, well none of you get to either! You knew him for a few months! He was my cousin! He was my family, my real family! And now he's gone! He's gone and all of you are still of playing hero like nothing happened! Replacing him with that girl… like he didn't matter!" She takes a steadying breath as he takes a step back. "I need you to leave now."

"Jolene…"

"Leave Michael!" She shoves him. "Take your scrubs and get out of here!" He can see he won't win and does as she says, heading out the door just before she slams it behind him. He puts his head against it, hearing sobbing from behind it.

He slides against the door to the ground himself, desperately trying to keep his breathing under control. His hands wrap around his head before he forces himself to pull it together and stand up, resolutely heading off in the direction he planned.

He does look over his shoulder once as he goes though, unable to mask the deep frown of pain now etched on his face.

XXX

Lori stands with her arms crossed over the guest bed, Hannah and Charlie flanking her on either side. She is clearly deep in thought. On the bed is the unconscious figure of The Lone Ranger on their couch, minus the hat and mask which are set on one of the side tables. "Lori, there's smoke coming out of your ears at this point," Hannah comments after a long moment of silence.

"She's just trying to figure out what happened and what this means," Charlie guesses. "I mean, if the book's going to start throwing out two unrelated characters at a time from here on out… that's going to mean a lot more work for us."

"Yeah," Hannah agrees. "I just wonder why now? What happened that this became the point the book decided we needed to start going at a quicker pace? What are you thinking Lori?"

Lori snaps out of it a bit. "Oh. I was just thinking about how awful The Lone Ranger was."

Hannah blinks a moment. "Seriously? The Stupid Book changes potentially our entire way of doing things and you're reflecting on a mere romp of an action flick?"

"Yes. Because it was awful." He starts to stir a bit and she takes a step forward. "Alright. Let's do this."

"It wasn't awful," Hannah argues.

"When you can tell what the hell Johnny Depp was going for and why there was the need to place a bird on his head, then we can talk. Otherwise, there will be no praising of that film in this dorm." The Lone Ranger opens his eyes, seeing the people gathered, before he seems to come into his right mind and spring awake. "Hey. Hey. It's okay. It's okay," Lori comforts him. "You're safe. You're with us now."

He stares at her a moment before his hand goes to his face. "My mask!" He spots it on the table and reaches for it. Lori quickly snatches it first.

"Listen, we already know who you are. You're John Reid, also known as The Lone Ranger. You ride a horse named Silver with an Indian insultingly not played by a Native American named Tonto. There's nothing to hide, but if it makes you feel better I'll give this back to you." She extends her hand with the mask and he grabs it, affixing it to his face. He then starts looking around the room in complete confusion.

"Where am I?"

"You're in our spare room," Lori volunteers. "I'm Lori Fitzgerald and these are my friends Hannah Frost and Charlie Prescott." She holds up the book. "This brought you here to our world to help us learn something important. As soon as we do that we can send you right back home like none of this ever happened."

"This is different from where I was before," he notes, sitting up and playing with the lamp on the table beside him.

"Yeah. Before you were with DIZ," Charlie volunteers. "They're these guys who kind of really don't like us."

"Because we have the magic book," Hannah continues.

"And they want it for themselves."

"Then how did I end up with you?" he asks. "Was there some sort of hostage negotiation while I was unconscious."

"No, which is very troubling," Lori admits. "We still need to figure out what the hell they're up to. Because this is all just too easy."

"We have another complication." Andrew Parker enters with a still rattled Michael after him. "I was coming over here when I found him wandering a bit down the hallway. Tell them."

"They visited Jolene," Michael informs everyone. "They were interrogating her about us for some reason. I managed to chase them off, but they really shook her up. She chased me out." Lori comes up and sympathetically hugs him.

"I'm sorry."

"Commander Dracula… she made it sound like it was your fault Caleb died," he continues. "And she knows about Jess. And she called you a coward for never showing up. And said we were all just pawns in some big game. Lores, she was playing with me. Saying things she knew had more meaning while leaving me lost. She let me think I won that fight, but I'm pretty sure I didn't."

"Can you go over what she said?" Hannah requests. "Maybe if we go over it we can figure some things out. Because if this is coming to a head then we need to make sure we have the upper hand in any way we can." Michael nods and Hannah goes to grab her laptop. "I'll document it all so we have it. Just go over the whole conversation. Then we'll break it down."

"If you guys don't mind, I'll take the Lone Ranger and show around him… him around," Andrew volunteers. "I'm newer here so I might not be as much help with all of this. But I can show this guy where to get a nice cup of coffee and figure out what we need to send him home."

Lori smiles at him. "Thanks Andy. I'd really appreciate that. No reason for him to listen to us babble on."

Andrew waves at The Lone Ranger. "Andrew Parker."

He smiles after a moment, instantly warming up to this stranger in front of him. "John Reid."

"Let's go get you a better disguise so you can fit in around here. I don't know if you'll fit in anything of mine, but hopefully we've got something." He gestures for The Lone Ranger to follow him, which he does after only a moment of hesitation. "Then I can show you the cool stuff- maybe go get some cream ice… ice cream. Sorry. I mix up my words sometimes."

"It's not a problem Mr. Parker. I've actually been talking with only Tonto for months, so this is kind of refreshing."

"Be sure to show him a magic trick!" Charlie calls after them.

"Magic trick?" Lone Ranger asks as they exit.

"Yeah. I've got some up my sleeve." Andrew then reaches up his flannel sleeve and pulls out a deck of cards. Lone Ranger lets out a laugh. "But that comes after clothes and ice cream… in that order because I think I said that one right." They continue walking down the hallway. "So what have you and Tonto been up to? I'm sure you have stories."

XXX

Ben is sitting at his desk working on some spreadsheets when he hears the door opening. "Howdy." He turns to see Woody hanging from the doorknob. "I might need some help getting down from here."

Ben sighs before wheeling over to him, letting him drop into his hand. "Thanks partner. I really appreciate it."

"Did you walk all the way over here?"

"No. Kaity dropped me off."

"Of course she did." He wheels them back over to his desk and sets Woody on it. "I'm sure you're here to continue your line of thinking about me somehow letting Finch down."

"I might be."

"Well, no offense but I have other ways I need to be spending my time right now. Important real world things that don't involve ridiculous concepts."

"Okay," Woody accepts. Ben goes back to his work and Woody sits in silence for a moment before speaking up again. "I just want to ask you something though."

"Then you'll leave me alone?"

"Of course. I just want to know if Kaity asked you to go with her for something important when you had plans of visiting Finch if you would."

"Of course I would." Woody's crosses his arms, thinking. "It's not… she's my girlfriend. She needs me with everything going on."

"And Finch doesn't? She is a projection trying to fake being human enough while developing human qualities of her own. Be glad she isn't delusional of being something she's not by the way. It gets old very fast."

"But Kaity is more important," Ben defends his words. "She's the most important. And me being there for her doesn't mean I'm not being a good friend to everyone else. Finch has a lot of people who care about her- myself included. If she needed something she'd ask."

"Like asking you to come with her today?"

"This is ridiculous." He backs up from the desk. "Listen, how about this. We'll go talk to her right now. I will literally roll us over to her dorm and bring all this up. Then you'll see that you're wrong and we can both move on with our lives. Go find out who you're really here for, because for once everything in my life is going just fine. Except for the homework the annoying toy won't let me finish because he's too busy judging my capability to know my friends. Sound good?"

Woody nods, scrambling onto Ben's shoulder without hesitation. "Then let's go prove me wrong partner."

"I plan to."

XXX

Andrew is sitting with Lone Ranger at the school café, both with pints of ice cream in their hands. Ranger still sticks out a bit with his sweatshirt looking almost a size too small, but no one seems to be paying them too much mind. The girls do enjoy a look as they pass by though.

"So you never miss?" Andrew questions. Lone Ranger nods. "Wow. Now that's magic."

"You're telling me," he makes clear. "Trust me, sometimes I still have no clue why it had to be me. Anyone probably would have been better for the job. My brother especially."

"He sounds like he was amazing. I'm sure he's pretty proud of you though."

"I don't know. He was always about the law- doing what's right."

"Well, I've learned recently that might not be defined as you think it is… as defined." Lone Ranger doesn't even bat an eye at it anymore, clearly quite comfortable with his new friend at this point. "Black and white don't quite exist and we just have to do our best to figure out the space between."

Lone Ranger nods, finishing off his ice cream. "You said when I get back no time will have gone by for me."

"Nope. Be like you never left."

"Good. It can be lonely sometimes, even with Tonto, but it's the life chosen for me. It's the one I'm needed to live." He looks around. "I still can't quite believe this is happening. Or that somehow… I'm sort of growing used to it. I mean, first there was the machine and then-"

"Machine?" Andrew questions. "What machine?"

"I woke up in one at DIZ. At least I think so. It's foggy but I was in a metal box with a door someone opened. They dragged me out and I saw this enormous metal machine."

"Filing that away to tell Lori," Andrew comments. "Do you want another one?"

"No. I'm fine. Does she always send you out to welcome people? Because you're very good at it."

"Thanks," Andrew run a hand through his hair. "But, listen, if you have time before you have to go we should go to a shooting range. See if your superpowers work in this world."

"You shoot?"

"Bow, but yes. So how about it? Your gun versus my arrow."

"Sounds like fun. We'd have to get my gun back from DIZ though." Kaity enters through the door and Andrew waves to her. "Though if I don't have my powers anymore, you'd better watch out for completely different reasons."

"John, this is Kaity," Andrew introduces as she makes her way over. "She's another Companion. Kaity, this is John Reid."

"Who?"

"Umm, The Lone Ranger."

"Never seen it," she shrugs. "I see you're showing him how we roll outside the Old West though."

"Indeed he is," Lone Ranger agrees. "He gave me a tour of the entire campus as well. He mentioned you're an excellent artist when we passed the Art Building."

"He's too nice for his own good," Kaity shakes her head. "Listen, I'm grabbing some food to go and then heading over to Lori's."

"Sounds good," Andrew nods. "I probably should get him back over there myself." Kaity goes to wait in line and he rises. "One minute?" Lone Ranger nods and he goes to join her. "How are we doing?"

"Pretty good," she tells him with ease. "Normal. Which means I'm ready to face Lori, because I didn't want to do it on a peak or a valley. I wanted to be me if that makes sense."

"It does to me. You feel like you need to be your best around Lori."

Kaity nods. "I know it's going to be okay though. I learned that lesson already the hard way. Speaking of, so I think Woody's figured out and in the process. What's he here for?"

Andrew takes a moment before shrugging. "I'm honestly not sure. There's a lot going on with DIZ right now so maybe something with them. They've been off figuring that out and might have a plan by the time we get back on that mess."

Kaity gets up to the counter and gets her sandwich and juice scanned, grabbing a pint of ice cream herself after a moment of thought. "I hope it involves banishing them forever. Because they're just starting to get annoying at this rate. I mean, we're never going to help them. That's all there is to it." The two of them walk back over to Lone Ranger who rises to join them.

They walk in comfortable silence across the bridge back towards campus when it happens. Someone skates by with his friend right behind him, knocking Andrew in the shoulder and sending him to the ground.

"Oh, dude, I'm sorry." The guy on the board comes to a halt, hand instantly going to Andrew's shoulder. And just like that an already frazzled Andrew loses it, letting out a cry and backpedaling as his breathing becomes broken and uneven.

"Shit," Kaity grits her teeth. She drops her food to kneel next to Andrew, hands in the air since she doesn't quite know where to put them. "Hey. Hey. It's okay. Just… just breathe." She turns to the guy with the board who looks utterly baffled by what's happening. "Germ thing. He doesn't like being touched"

"Sorry. I didn't mean to freak him out like that."

"Of course not. You didn't know. Listen- Oh my God!"

She's on her feet just as Lone Ranger has hoisted the kid up by his collar. She runs to him but is too late as he proceeds to deposit the kid over the side of the bridge, causing him to land in the water with a loud splash. "No. No." She hears Andrew's breathing and is torn between the two situations.

The friend then rushes Lone Ranger and quickly proceeds to end up in the water as well. But as if that wasn't enough, he clears the railing to go after them. Kaity finally pulls out her phone and hits a button, blowing the hair from her eye.

"Lori. We've got a situation." She looks at both Lone Ranger shoving one of the guys under the water and Andrew nearly hyperventilating against the railing. "Like the now kind. Bridge to the café." With that, she hangs up and goes to Andrew's side. "She's coming. She's coming. Just… keep breathing." She then runs to the railing as The Lone Ranger punches the second guy. "Hey! Stop that!"

"They won't get away with hurting him! I won't let someone else get hurt!" Lone Ranger merely shouts, continuing his assault. Kaity takes a moment before making a choice, hopping the railing with some difficulty and landing face-first in the water. She pulls herself up and quickly gets between Lone Ranger and the two guys. "Enough! Or you have to hit me first, okay?!"

Lone Ranger finally back off a bit and she turns to the two petrified guys. "Get out of here." They take off running up the slope and over the bridge, passing Lori as she comes running up with Hannah, Charlie, and Michael behind her. She takes the scene in, Kaity giving her a wet wave.

"And so it continues," she mutters, running instantly for Andrew with a worried expression.

XXX

Finch and Rachel are sitting in Rachel's room on her bed, scripts in their hands. "I just think this scene needs a little more fun."

"We can work on that," Finch agrees. Rachel nods when her phone buzzes.

"Text from Cute Robert"

Rachel beams. "Read."

"Yeah, maybe sometime. We need to invite Finch too though"

Rachel contemplates this a moment. "Still a little shy I see. But we'll work out of that, you'll see."

"Text from Cute Robert"

"Read."

"Listen, I just want to make something clear. Because your text was worded in a way that was kind of uncomfortable. I think you and I will be great friends, but right now I'm interested in someone else. I'm sorry if that hurts your feelings. Or if I'm crazy."

Rachel instantly freezes. "Uncomfortable? I make him uncomfortable?" She takes a moment, clearly hurt. Finch just watches, unsure what to do. "Someone else? There's someone else? I didn't- oh my God I'm an idiot. Finch, you didn't tell me he was into someone!"

"I was not aware. I had not seen any inclinations on his part since he requested a date with last semester. Since then, I feel he has shown interest in no one in particular. My database shows no name of significance."

"He asked you out?" Rachel asks.

"Yes. I informed him I wasn't built for such function. He took it rather well and we have been friends since."

Everything seems to hit Rachel at once. "He tried out for the play because you were in it. It's you. He still likes you. You're a projection and he doesn't know and he loves you." Her hand goes to her mouth. "I'm such an idiot."

"Negative. But I believe you are incorrect in your statement. His interest in me had passed and I am sorry he did not see you as compatible in a relationship as you wished he would."

Rachel clearly doesn't buy it. "It all makes sense, and a great story quite frankly." She takes a deep breath. "Leave it for the one guy I'm into to literally be in love with a computer. That one hurts." She seems to realize something. "But I don't blame you Finch. Just want to make that clear. You don't get to choose who falls for you."

"Love truly is a baffling concept."

"It is." She lies back in the bed, clearly still upset. "Well, I think I'm done for the day."

"Rachel Ellis-"

"Finch!" Finch hops down just as Ben wheels into the room with Woody on his shoulder. "Hey, I thought I'd find you here. I need to talk to you about something."

Finch turns to Rachel who nods. "Go ahead. I want some alone time anyway."

Finch nods and follows Ben into the living area, Rachel letting out a sigh. "What can I do for you, Benjamin Prescott?"

"Finch, am I a good friend?"

"I do not understand…"

"Am I a good friend to you Finch?" He crosses his arms. "Because Woody seems to think I'm lacking. So I just want to clear things up and show him he's wrong. Go on. Tell him the truth."

Finch hesitates briefly. "I need a clear definition on good friend? Is it similar to family, because then my answer would be affirmative."

Ben gives Woody a sharp look. Woody sighs and turns to Finch. "Kind of. But a good friend means that you have someone who is there for, who cares for you, and you know it. You feel that you can count on them for whatever is bothering you- big or small. Just like they count on you." Finch reflects on this. "So Finch, has Ben been a good friend to you recently."

She seems to hesitate for a long moment before looking down. "Negative."

It takes a minute to realize what has just been said. Ben's arms suddenly drop. "What? Finch, what are you saying? What do you mean? You and I… we're fine."

"Benjamin Prescott is a good friend and boyfriend to others. But personally I have felt a definite lack of connection or care on his part when it comes to our interactions. But I do not wish to continue and hurt him further, so I shall leave now."

She goes to walk past them, but Ben grabs her arm. She turns to face him, nearly crying. "Finch… tell me what's wrong. I'm here. I'm listening."

"Since this semester began, you have requested many things of me. You requested I spy on Andrew Parker despite my relationship with him. You requested I be your Vice President to accomplish your goals. You pushed me away during the election despite being your compatriot within it. You have denied my attempts to spend time together- always favoring Kaitlyn Klingbeil. I have sought your counsel recently, but have never been able to receive it. Recently Rachel Ellis called herself my best friend. And I start to worry it may be true, betrayal to you it may be. But that is how I feel."

Ben just sits there for a minute. "Finch…"

"I'm sorry. I should not have spoken. My feelings are irrelevant in this matter, especially compared to that of Kaitlyn Klingbeil."

"Negative." She turns to look at him. "Finch, together we discovered that you had feelings. You and me. We were a team. And here I thought I couldn't hurt them." He takes a moment to orient himself. "I'm sorry. The fact that you felt like you couldn't even bring this up… being Kaity's boyfriend is one of the biggest honors I hold. Being a Companion is another. Brother. Son. But one of the ones in that closest circle is the fact that I am your first friend. That I am the person you could always count on and look to. That I'm the reason you wear that tie." He's tearing up himself now. "I failed you. There's no other way to say it. I got caught up in things and I let you down."

"Benjamin Prescott, we should just forget this conversation."

"Negative," he shakes his head. "Because Woody was right. I have a job and I haven't been doing it to the best of my ability. All you ask for is for me to be there for you and that is completely legitimate and fair. So I will do better. I will be better for you. I swear." He slides his hand down so it's laced in hers. "I love you, Finch. In a very special way. Always have. Always will. And I will endeavor to make you feel like you can rely on me the way I do on you. And the first way I'm going to do that is take the words you said right now to heart." He looks up to see tears running down her face. "How does that sound?"

"That sounds like something I want more than anything." She falls forward, kneeling so she can engulf him in a hug. "Thank you for understanding Benjamin Prescott."

"Thank you for being you, Finch Hale." He holds her tight. "You tell me next time you feel like this. You are still very good at hiding those emotions when you want to and you shouldn't have to carry this around with you."

She pulls back, merely nodding. He smiles at her. "Good. And one more thing. It's okay if Rachel's your best friend. You two have a special connection and spend a lot of time together with a shared interest and hobby. That's what a Charlie is to a Lori. And I'm okay with that not being me. I understand and I promise I'm not upset or mad about it. I'm fine with being your Hannah."

"You will always be the Benjamin Prescott to my Finch Hale."

"I'll take that too. Now, how about the two of us take some time this week to have a conversation about some stuff weighing on you."

"I would like that immensely."

"Then it's a plan." He looks at Woody on his shoulder, who raises an eyebrow at him. "Thank you." The cowboy merely tips his hat. "I just hope I can live up to you from here on out."

"I'm sure you will."

"Let's go find Lori. I think it's time for you to go home."

XXX

"Are you guys crazy?!" Jess shouts to the gathered party of Lori's room in the meantime. Lori stands at her desk with Charlie and Michael, Hannah flanks her Vice President, and Kaity sits on Hannah's bed wrapped in a towel and The Lone Ranger next to her does the same. Andrew is leaning against the dresser, still clearly shaken. Lori meets his gaze and smiles though, causing him to tentatively smile back. "You realize he just assaulted two students who went straight to security. Which means tomorrow there will be a report crossing Dad's desk about the violent mystery man with Andrew and Kaity who threw two students in a river!"

"Those men assaulted Andrew. I could not let an attack on the innocent, on my friend, be unmet with action on my part."

Jess groans. "This isn't the Wild West! We don't just go around giving students concussion- which you did by the way! Besides, they didn't assault Parker. He's just weird."

"Jess!" Hannah barks.

"It's true and you know it." She flops in a chair, clearly exhausted. "What the hell did I sign up for? This is insanity. Here I am shredding document to save your asses and then you go and do something like this that'll connect back to all of you… all of us no unfortunately. Now Lori Fitzgerald has a Crazy Violent Cult."

"Are you good?" Lori asks. Jess just huffs. "Good. Because then it's my turn." She turns to Andrew. "Are you okay?"

"Just fine. Don't worry about me, Fitz."

She nods, turning to Kaity. "You were amazing back there. You held down that situation better than I think most of us could. And you really took one for the team at the potential risk of pneumonia."

"Anything to help. You know that."

Lori nods, moment passing between them. "I do." She turns to Lone Ranger now. "She's right. This is going to be a mess, despite your reasons. The sooner we can send you back the better."

"I agree," he says solemnly. "It probably is for the best I return to my own time where I am more… aware of the customs and practices."

"But what was the lesson here?" Hannah asks. "Because I'm not sure we have one. No one did anything that expanded their character."

"Well, I can help us with one," Ben speaks as he comes into the room with Finch pushing behind him. "Woody helped me work through some things today and I think it's time he gets back to his best friend."

"Excellent," Lori sighs, grabbing the book. "That makes some things easier." She flips through the book to a glowing poem. "Sorry we didn't get to talk much Woody. It's been a crazy day."

"Always is when you're the leader of a crazy posse. It has been a pleasure though."

"Likewise."

Ben puts Woody on the desk. "Thanks for everything, my friend. To infinity and beyond."

Woody nods with a large smile, giving Kaity a wave that she reciprocates. "Keep that cowgirl close. She's a real keeper." He turns to Lori, tipping his hat. "Whenever you're ready."

"He's the very best He's the rootinest tootinest cowboy in the wild, wild west"

Woody vanishes in a flash of light and Lori flips through the book again, reaching the end with a frown and glance at Lone Ranger. He frowns deeply too. "Just what are we going to do with you?"

"I think we should ask DIZ," Andrew speaks up, stepping forward. "I think I may know what happened here and why the book isn't working for him." He turns to Lone Ranger. "Tell them about the machine."

XXX

The next morning, the secretary looks up as the doors are thrown open to see Lori enter with all her Companions and Lone Ranger behind her. She walks right up, eyes narrowed in determination and buries the sword in her hand in the desk. "Commander Dracula. Now."

The girl takes off down the hallway and through a door. Lori pulls the sword out and waits as Commander Abbot emerges a moment later, looking perfectly calm. "Ms. Fitzgerald-"

"Save it. We can't send him back." She flips through the book for emphasis. "And it's all your fault. Because he didn't get sent here with a lesson to be taught. No, he got pulled here because you decided to try and best us yet again. You built a machine that pulled him here."

Abbot thinks a moment, deciding how to play this. "We did."

"Well, now he's stuck here. Any character you use that thing for will get pulled here randomly with no lesson and be trapped here. I don't know exactly what your plan was, but I imagine it didn't involve screwing all of us over this hard."

"All of us?"

"Because you have just as much vested interest in keeping all this secret as we do. And if they start flooding in then good luck with that." She stares her down a minute.

"You're right," she puts her hands up. "It was a design flaw we did not see. The original plan was to ferry all interactions you had with the characters through us, but the book made it very clear it will deliver characters still as it pleases. It was misguided."

"And what was going after Jolene?" Michael questions.

"Gathering intel," she confesses. "She refused to turn though, your girl. You see, all our evidence seems to have vanished thanks to the President and Vice President of campus."

"You were trying to get all of them expelled," Jess reminds everyone. "I saw the papers."

"Just another attempt for control you managed to counter. Like I told Mr. Harms, your command of the pieces on the board is incredible. Sometimes you manage to change the game entirely on me."

"They're not pawns. They're my family."

"Yes. And a cute one at that. My ultimate goal still remains though Ms. Fitzgerald. I want you to trust us and allow us to help you with the heavy burden you carry. Let us help you so that you and your family can go back to living a normal life."

Lori glances at the book before looking up. "I don't know if that was ever in the card for me at this point. We've been tricked by all of you and we buried someone for it. It won't be happening again."

"Then let me prove I mean well," she attempts. "Let me try to help fix what Higgins broke. No more with the tactics or the schemes. Let me just help you and fix my mistake."

Charlie rolls his eyes. "I'd like to see you try."

"You say the book can't send him back. So what is it that you plan to do with him for the time being. I hear Security is quite interested in him after all due to events on the bridge yesterday."

"He can stay in our guest room until we sort this out somehow… without you!" Lori barks, pointing her sword.

"Or he can come stay with us at DIZ. We'll look after him, take care of him, give him everything he needs until the time comes that we can send him back. And then we will. We will carry the burden for what we have done."

Andrew edges in front of Lone Ranger. "Not on your life."

There is a deadly long pause before someone speaks up. "Maybe we should hear her out." Everyone turns to see it is Jess. "I'm just saying, she has a point. We should at least talk this one out and make sure we're all on the same page. Because I keep thinking about my dad and what keeping him here might do for this campus and by extension him. How much more complicated it makes an already magic book situation. Because I don't know about you, but I don't have time to babysit and tech Old West the social graces of this time. And from what I've seen I don't think any of us do. Or care enough to do it. So I want to talk about this. If we're not pawns we deserve to talk about this."

Lori takes a moment. "We need a minute alone."

Abbot nods. "Of course. I will take Mr. Reid here to retrieve his gun then." She gestures and Lone Ranger only follows after a nod from Andrew. "Take all the time you need."

They wait until the two round a corner before Lori turns to face the group at large. "What are we going to do?" Charlie asks.

"Jess is right. Everyone gets a say. We put it to a vote. We leave him to DIZ or her comes back with us. Whatever we all decide together." She starts at the beginning of the line. "Michael?"

He takes a beat, taking a deep breath. "I abstain. I'm conflicted. There's this whole Jolene situation which doesn't sit right with me. But then there's the fact that this year is already so much harder. And honestly I don't know how much more all of us can take. So I'm just not answering this one. I'll go with whatever everyone decides."

"Charlie."

"He stays with us of course. It's our job. We take care of the characters until we send them home. Like we have since Ariel."

"Andy."

"Stays. It may be harder but after what he did for me I am willing to put in effort whatever…whatever effort it takes. He's my friend."

"Jess has made her vote clear. Hannah."

"I hate DIZ. You know I do. But Jess is right. I'm President and I need to think of the entire school now. I don't know if campus can handle something like this for however long it is." Charlie looks at her in shock. "It's nothing personal. I just have to think of the bigger picture."

"Ben."

"He goes."

"Kaity."

"I have too much to worry about already. He goes." Charlie and Andrew are both clearly in shock at this point, staring at their friends. Lori keeps a straight face.

"Rachel."

She sighs, clearly still not in a good mood. "Goes."

"Finch."

"He shall remain with DIZ. I promise to continually monitor to make sure they do not betray their deal and hurt him in any way until we can secure him passage home. This I'm sure will put everyone more at ease with the situation."

"Not really," Andrew voices. He and Charlie are still in complete disbelief.

"Shut up," Ben bites back.

"Enough," Lori silences it. "With Michael abstaining the vote is two to six. The Lone Ranger is staying with DIZ. I'll honor the vote."

"Thank you," Jess crosses her arms. "It's appreciated."

"I'll go talk to Abbot then. Everyone else can head home. I'll meet up with you guys later." Her Companions nod and start filing out, Andrew hesitating.

"Tell him thank you for me please. And that I'll be asking about him. That's he's my friend and I'm sorry we can't get him home. That I'll still make sure we get out to the shooting range."

"I think that's more than enough," Ben quips.

Lori glares. "I will, Andy." She turns to start down the hallway when someone falls in step beside her.

"We do this together," Charlie reminds her. "Just like everything else. Especially this one." She nods, clearly thankful. "What would you have voted for?"

"Wouldn't have been enough," is all she volunteers.

"This could really hurt us Lori. Like really hurt us in a way nothing has before."

"I know." They come across Commander Abbot and The Lone Ranger. "Trust me, I'm thinking the same exact thing."

All it takes is one look for Commander Abbot's face to blossom into a smile. "I bet you wish they were merely pawns now. Welcome to the next level of the game Ms. Fitzgerald. Now we're playing for real."

Lori turns her attention to The Lone Ranger, who almost looks afraid. "I'm so sorry."

He just hangs his head. "I understand." She goes to take a step towards him, but he steps back. "After all, the redhead's right. I'm not worth the time and effort. I'm just an accident. Isn't the first time and it won't be the last time. Thanks for everything."

"Andy said-"

"Tell Mr. Parker thanks too. Let me know when you can get me home." With that he turns to Commander Abbot who begins to lead him off with a smile. "What's going to happen to me?"

"We'll take you to a secure location for your safety- help teach you about this world in any way we can." She leads him out another door to a truck. "Hop in." He does after a moment and she goes to the driver's seat where one of her guards sits. "You know what to do. I'll be along in a few days to begin the next phase."

XXX

Lori and Charlie just watch them go with a horrible sinking feeling about what has just occurred. Finally, the two are out of sight and they are forced to head back. But Lori takes a moment to flip the desk in a moment of rage as they pass it with a cry. She just stands there a moment.

"Lori?"

"I'm not going to let her win." She looks at her best friend, determination clear in her face. "I'm never going to let her win. Whatever it takes." She flips through the book, doing it again when no poem appears. "Whatever it takes," she utters as she flips through it once again as they finally exit.

XXX

Tune in two weeks from now as a certain firefly notes much romance in the air. Andrew receives a request for a date, Hannah holds off an old flame, Michael struggles to find where he stands with Jolene, and Lori figures out just what she wants.