Wherever You Mght Look Tonight, You Might See This Wanted Man

The money given to BJay, Marty stood for a few minutes after the man left staring at the one way ticket to Paris. For the first time since coming home from McQueen's office that morning, he looked at the clock. "Damn," was the only word he spoke as he realized how much/little time he had to make that flight. First thing he did was grab his passport and check to make sure his visa was valid. "Damn," was again the only word he spoke as he realized the French visa had expired only a few days ago. Picking up his mobile, he called the consulate and found out if he got there in the next three hours, yes they could rush the visa through in time for his flight that evening. He could do that.

Straight into the shower and a change of clothes later, Marty slipped his phone in his jacket pocket along with his passport, wallet in its usual trouser pocket and, making sure he had all the required documents/identification he would need. First stop was the branch of his bank just a few blocks over where Marty made a withdrawal of cash and had it changed into francs for his trip. Fortunately, he banked most of his salary since there wasn't much he had to spend it on. Rent and utilities, food and whatever. Travel had always been arranged and covered by work. Over the years he had be employed for SmokingLlama.com, Marty had slowly managed to create a nice little bank account with some good retirement investing for later.

Hailing a yellow cab, he soon found himself at the front entrance of the French Consulate, not the same location he had been at the other night so that meant the rally had been somewhere else. Marty made himself a mental note to go back in daylight after his return and find out where he had been after all. For now, his main concern was getting that visa renewed and making that flight. Why? Marty was not sure but he made the decision to go and go he would. Getting out at the consulate, he made his way inside, asking for the individual he had spoken to on the phone. Led to her office, she reviewed the documentation and processed his visa for him, of course, for a fee but then when time is of the essence, fees are always a bit more pricey.

Having been experienced enough to ask the cab to wait, he left the consulate, unaware of the copies of his documents about to packaged and sent up to the very top floor of the embassy. The woman who aided him had just received a memo that came from the Ambassador's office stating that should anyone by this name come in, please contact that level. Too bad the memo came after he was out the door, but at least she could send them the copies. As she did, she wondered what it was all about but discretion meant never asking.

Marty's cab pulled in the departing flights section with a bit of time to spare and Marty paid him as well as a decent tip for his waiting and speed. He went straight to check in and then to the gate where the flight attendant was waiting at the walkway entrance. "Just made it , sir," she told him as she checked his boarding pass and then turned to close the door behind them.

"Wait! Wait!" shouted a man who was running toward the gate she was now closing. "I must catch this flight!" he shouted again, his french accent strong.

Marty raised one eyebrow as the attendant ignored the pleas and finished locking the gateway entrance. "If it's a matter of ticket, he could have mine?" Marty offered, for it sounded like the man had urgent need of getting on the flight.

The attendant shook her head. "That's kind of you, sir, but he's done this before. Maybe he has diplomatic immunity with the law but there's no such thing with our airline. " She explained as she and Marty made their way in, she officially checked his pass and he found his seat, fastening his seatbelt just as the pilot began the departure announcements and prepared to taxi to the runway for take off. The man in the airport forgotten by them. He in the meantime, after uttering a few colorful terms in French before sending a quick message back to the consulate that he had missed the flight. Someone on the topmost floor was not very happy at the news.

The flight across the Atlantic was uneventful and Marty, used to long flights from his work, slept. Really it was the first night since the rally that he managed to do so without the aid of refreshment. Upon awakening, he drank the coffee offered and watched the clouds go past under the plane for most of the rest of the flight. It seemed the attendants guessed he wanted to be left to himself and except for occasional offerings of coffee or meals and one offer of an ice pack for his eye which Marty managed a smile and a light comment it was fine now, left him to his own thoughts.

By the time the direct flight landed at Charles DeGaulle Field in Paris, it was afternoon and Marty disembarked, making the routine visit to customs with no luggage nor anything to declare, he was through quickly. Which left him to head to the main part of the terminal and wonder what he was supposed to do next.

Fifi walked into the Ministers waiting room, her heels clicking against the hard wood floor. Dismissively she glanced at the portraits of previous Ministers, how disapproving they seemed of her but a couple where leery in hope that it was going to be another of 'those' visits. Even the dead needed the odd bit of spice to their otherwise dull life after all. Dominic had owled her almost the moment she had arrived back in Paris.. so far she had managed to avoid him but a howler today meant that she knew she would have to be there or face the consequences.
"Miss LaRoux! How wonderful to have you back.. I hope your trip was not too taxing?" Dominic's secretary had been hired especially for being apparently the only women in the world who did not keep up with current affairs.
"Just fine.. thank you Lola" Fifi replied before giving the woman a small smile when told that she was welcome to see Dominic now.
Fifi took a deep breath, just what was it that had Dominic in such a mood? Could it have been that he knew what she'd done? Fifi didn't hazard to guess, she'd fine out soon enough. Dominic was sitting at his desk as the door swung shut behind her. Fifi using a hand to smooth down her dress got a small whistle from a painting behind her. Jacques Milnot always tended to be easily excited, it was rather worrying for a man who'd been beheaded back in 1784.

"You have really gone too far this time" Dominic stated as he read over a recent intelligence report regarding the status of the Wizard Bank's downgrading of Muggle currency due to the ongoing financial crisis. "Did you really think I would allow that man to just waltz into my country and not be aware of it?"
Fifi's heart sunk, he knew, of course he knew. The best she could do was to put on a brave face "It was for the best" Fifi said not meeting Dominic's eye. "You wished to know of whom was behind the trouble, now you can" mentally kicking herself for leading Marty straight to Dominic but she could tell just by the look in his eyes that there was no way for her to get out of this. Fifi had no idea of how Dominic had found out about Marty, she had used her own accounts to pay for his ticket so how had he been detected? Alas she had never known that Muggles also used Passports, nor that they where checked before each flight. She'd always carried her Ministry pass and had never flown on a Muggle aeroplane before, so how was she to know that the moment Marty had arrived at the French Consulate the news had been passed onto one of Dominic's staff who had immediately contacted the minister by Floo to ensure he was made aware.

Fifi was very much in the dark with the whole thing, what had seemed at the time to be a good idea.. or at least not a bad one, was falling to pieces right in front of her as Dominic questioned her on every aspect of her relationship with Marty Harper.. though she denied it being anything of a sort, and avoided mention of how she had broken the law in using a unforgivable curse. Fifi was not proud of that, however she held firm that the man had come out better off and she had kept her eye on him to make sure he came to no harm. What more was it that she could have done?
"Fifi if you wanted this man so much, why didn't you say? Instead you go behind my back and make a fool of me.. I don't enjoy being made a fool of!"
"Do What?! How was I to know you hadn't planned on killing him?" Fifi shouted as she pushed away the quill and parchment on his desk with a florish. The faces in the paintings leered.. they knew this game well.
"Why on earth would I wish to do that? Dangerous or not this Marty as you insist upon calling him has information.. someone ensured that he was in the right place at the right time.. someone also maneuvered the NYPD to arrive at just that moment.. don't you see Fifi..?" Dominic took off his coat, his secretary knew to hold all calls when he was in an important meeting.
While she knew where this was going Fifi wished to refuse but Dominic had been so cross with her, how could she say no to him? They kissed as the phone on the desk rung. Fifi left breathless as Dominic spoke on the phone, Marty had been spotted at the airport boarding a plane to Paris. A short once sided conversation later and everything was arranged for Marty's arrival, satisfied Dominic ran a hand over Fifi, Fifi shivered, it wasn't all a nice feeling. Somewhere in the sky Marty was alone and no doubt confused.

The next day the pair rose late, Fifi laying in bed watched as Dominic wandered back and forth with the telephone in hand in order to keep on top of the business of the day. Left to see to herself she washed and tried to ignore the feeling of being nothing more then dirt as she charmed her hair dry and selected a dress for the day. Dominic had a wide range of such, he did well to keep her in whatever caught her fancy. With a hour before the plane arrived Fifi tried to hide her growing nerves as the pair shared a breakfast before climbing into a automobile to be driven to the airport. It was a strange thing that while Fifi was familiar with the place she had never stepped foot on a single plane. Dominic's Auror's had been ahead, Fifi could tell as they walked into the terminal.. Dominic's hand firmly holding her arm as a familiar shaggy haired man came into view. Fifi didn't know what was going to happen. Surely he couldn't be a spy and yet how was it that their fates seemed to be crossed in such a way? Fifi glanced up at Dominic who was just staring straight forward and nodding at the odd stranger who crossed their path. They made a awkward pair, both alert and both not looking at each other. Fifi could only hope that Marty would understand.

Marty waited a bit and after a while got the odd feeling he was being watched. Normally, he would shrug it off as nothing but after recent events, he was not going to ignore his instincts. There was an easy way to find out and that was to head to the mens' room and see if anyone suddenly had an urge to do so as well. Sure enough, a rather ministry appearing guy came in not more than seconds behind Marty. He was now beginning to wonder what in the world Fifi was up to or involved in, remember vaguely her comments about not being safe or some such around her.

He had not flown across the Atlantic to deal with embassy annoyances and so when the guy followed him in, Marty did the only thing he could think of and that was to turn around suddenly and shove the guy forward. He winced as he heard the guy's skull crack against the porcelain of the urinal, knocking him out. "Shit," was his only comment after looking around and realizing that, fortunately, no one else was in there. He hadn't meant to knock the guy out, just to find out what he thought he was doing watching Marty. He could have been nice and laid the guy on the floor but he left him where he had landed instead and went back out into the terminal to see if Fifi was going to show up or not.

It wasn't too much longer after that that he spotted her, only she was not alone. With a sigh, Marty did the only thing he could think to do. So he began to walk toward the ticket counter to purchase a return ticket to NYC on the next plane out.

Waiting was quite dull, they had arranged for Vincent to direct Marty to the correct part of the airport and ensure he arrived safely. Little did they know that in typical 'watches too many James Bond movies' style said Auror was currently laid out on the floor of a mens lavatory. Well.. mostly anyway. Fifi sighed "This is not right, he will not come" she said before biting her lip as Dominic gripped her arm tighter.
"He will, and if he doesn't we will find him", cursing him Fifi was caught wondering if that wasn't the very point. Dominic was playing with her, forcing her to break the poor mans heart all together. Fifi didn't have any polite words to use on Dominic as she watched Marty, the moment he spotted her she knew her worlds where correct. "You salaud!" Cursing Nicci didn't help but shoving him gave her just enough room to grab accio her wand. "Let me go Nicci.. NOW!" breaking into English she was serious and even Dominic wasn't foolish enough to do otherwise.

It was obvious that Fifi's boots had been made for walking, not running across a stone floor in the middle of a crowded airport. Fifi didn't care though as she hurried towards Marty. Dominic just glaring at her the entire time before one of the security escort of Aurors went to speak to him that Vincent hadn't checked in. "Marty! Please... please don't go.." Fifi's feet where aching, she'd grown long used to a life of high heels but it was another thing all together to run in them on slick stonework. She was sure a ankle had been twisted somewhere. "He's just my boss.." Fifi was tempted to shout, Americans with their holier then thou outdated beliefs about how a man and a woman should relate. She knew her relationship with Nicci wasn't "correct" by the prudish standards of Americans and the English but Nicci had cared for her, and why was it wrong for her to make him happy on the occasion when they both felt it was right? Emotions where complex things, Fifi knew that just as she knew nothing about her own feelings made any form of sense. Why else would she have gone to such trouble to bring this man here? Why when he would rather turn his back then face her. Fifi didn't know, all she knew was that he was a weakness to her. One that Nicci now knew and was liable to manipulate to his own ends. "Ai am sorry.. he did insist but he only wishes to talk to you Marty" Fifi said hoping that it would be enough to change Marty's mind about leaving.

Marty had no idea why it bothered him to see that Fifi arrived with another, older man but it did. Marty really had no idea why he had just flown from New York to France just because she asked him to either. Well, okay, he knew it was because he really did not want to just drop everything the way it had been dropped in the back of the squad car. He knew that he thought of her when he least expected ever since that day he found her neck deep in mud, little things like wondering how she was or if she had managed to return to wherever it was she had been staying after he assisted her.

Of course, Marty did not read fashion magazines, Muggle or wizarding kind, so he had no way of knowing she had found her way around all right and returned to Paris. Nor had he had any idea she was in New York that night but the did think of her after that day, fairly sure she had forgotten him. Thus, it really surprised him to find her rushing to help him when things went haywire and he had not been able to make sense of it all since then between being told get lost on the way to the station then having that guy, Benjamin, show up at his apartment with the ticket to her showing up with her hus....

"Boss?" he repeated, stopping where he was and turning around to see her running toward him, looking as if she was about to break her neck in those shoes she had on. "Fifi," he called to her, quickly covering the distance left between them before she did fall and break her neck, his hand gently reaching out under her elbow if she needed to steady herself -- not that Marty seemed to have developed some sort of protective streak towards the young woman, no, not at all, nope. "So... you didn't just fly me here to further explain why I shouldn't be seen around you by introducing me to your husband? He's your boss... " he repeated as if to assure himself he was hearing correctly and/or not having a dream or nightmare.

Marty had quite a few questions, some he wanted to ask and probably would, some he wanted to ask and had no idea why or how he would, some were not even fully formed at the moment. But he was not going to ask them right now as the man had closed the distance between the pair and himself and was coming up behind Fifi now. "Your her... Please to meet you, sir," Martin held out his free hand and introduced himself, remembering manners. "Martin Harper."

"Yes.. my Boss" Fifi was not impressed by Marty's actions, sometimes he seemed hardly worth it like now when he had turned his back on her. Yet in the next moment he stepped up to the plate as they put it and behind them Dominic was forced to hunch his shoulders and scowl a little as Marty supported Fifi from falling. One moment it seemed that he understood her and yet the next he would do or say something so wrong Fifi had to cool herself not to slap him. Instead she stepped back, crossing her arms before her "Ai did tell you of him in the automobile if you recall" The word 'husband' stung, as if she would tie herself down to some outdated model of romance and commitment. Ha, she was Fifi LaRoux not some little girl wishing for fairytale prince to step into her life. She knew the world was what you made it, and Fifi was hardly going to limit her 'vision' to that of some American ideal towards stability and the myth of two-point five children, a perfect home and love forever. Fifi knew she would never have children, the very thought made her feel somewhat ill along with the fact that she would never wish her 'issues' upon another.

Even if they where annoying noisy creatures that seemed to come from the bowels of hell. It was clear that while public relations was part of her duties from time to time she did manage to do her best to avoid scenes involving large amounts of young witches.. they where all just too excitable. Either way Fifi's plan had gone awry the moment Dominic had called her into his office. Fifi didn't have much to say for herself, she knew she had been inconsistent and often was the first to admit that most of the time she didn't have a clue what she was doing. "Ai told you Marty, you are here because it is not safe.. there are certain.. factions who would wish harm upon you" Frump was probably number one. The American Minister's approval ratings where at a record low since the events televised on the Cherry Clinger Show. "Come.. meet Dominic.. " Fifi stated as the French Minister for Magic put himself forward, only shaking the hand once it was offered in a carefully measured way. "Dominic Benoit Minister for the Esoteric Arts" Dominic stated using one of his many, bogus titles. Every Muggle Government was careful to save one strange and archaic ministry title to bestow on the head of the Magical Ministry and Dominic was rather fond of that one for it's general sense of being both important and a pun at the same time.

"Now if you have everything we have a car waiting.. Fifi if you would show Marty the way, incidentally there was a fellow who was supposed to be with you.. a Mr Vincent Vincent? Tall thin chap with a unfortunate nose?" Dominic looked at Marty with suspicion, despite his unimaginative name Vincent had been a good agent and Dominic couldn't help the feeling that there was foul play at hand somewhere in the disappearance. He had already given Fifi a curious glance at the fact that her 'Marty' had introduced himself as 'Martin', no wonder they had not found it so easy to track the man down originally. Had it not been for the police records Martin might well have slipped right though the cracks all together.
"I'm sure Marty.. I mean.. Martin had nothing to do with it.." Fifi said to Dominic after giving Marty a second glance. How was it that she'd never known that his real name was Martin? If that was even his real name. Fifi wished she could allow herself to trust others but she would hardly be a good Hit Wizard if she didn't know to second guess everyone she met. After all this whole thing could have been a elaborately staged attempt to get to Dominic. Already they had a Auror down and it was going to be difficult to maneuver a battle with so many Muggles all around. No it was not a good position at all and Fifi knew that it would be on her head if any harm came to Dominic.. made all the worse that he was the most popular Minister for Magic since even before the war had begun.

Marty felt bad about jumping to the conclusion Fifi would have brought him there to just make not seeing her again worse. "I'm sorry," he apologized, "And yes, I mentioned my boss... ex-boss," he corrected himself, "As well but I didn't know this was him." Marty remembered her letter saying he was not safe but he really had no idea why or what was involved. He still was not really sure why he had come except that she asked, just as he went to meet Dominic and, really, the man seemed nice enough at first appearance. Guarded, perhaps but then again, Marty reminded himself, the man did work in some sort of governmental capacity, which he included his title upon returning Marty's introduction. Marty winced as Fifi changed to his given name. "Please, just Marty," he asked. "Short for Martin which is my given name. I mostly use the Martin for professional papers."

It was when Dominic mentioned that there had been someone who was supposed to have met Marty that the American paled and almost choked with embarrassment. "Oh... uhm... I'm afraid he may be the man I owe a massive apology too?" he asked a bit sheepishly. "Some guy kept following me since I disembarked, every where I went and when he even followed me into the...... Well, I guess it's just been a rather long few days between the events at the rally, getting arrested, getting fired, and now flying here. I'm really sorry," he finished quietly figuring he probably would definitely be looking into a return flight in a few minutes, well unless he was about to be arrested again?

Ex-Boss? Fifi took the news like she did all others, attempting to weigh up the meaning behind the words. So whoever 'she' was no longer employed Marty.. or was it that someone else had beat them to him? "Ai see..." she just stated, Dominic could deal with this, it was all becoming too much like layers upon layers for her liking. Fifi didn't like it when things where complicated, she preferred her life to be a simple path of cause and effect. Usually her cause and a rather painful effect for whoever got in her way. She'd always considered herself a
good eye at telling what was true or not but when it came to Marty everything was telling her the same thing from when they first met, that he was a nobody. Yet why was it that everything since was pointing to quite the opposite? "Well honestly, who else would it be Marty?" Fifi snapped, her nerves where starting to bring out the worst in her and being stuck between the two men unable to trust either of them this moment was not a good place to be. Behind her dark glasses Fifi scanned the walkways and the high roof for any signs of a ambush, it was not how she wished things to be which was enough to make her moody.

To think she had gone to so much effort and here he was thumbing his nose at her, a husband? Fifi was still aghast at the thought that she looked the type to require one. She wasn't sure if she could call him Marty right now. "..Then Martin will do, we are professionals after all" Fifi simply stated as if it didn't matter to her. The problem was that it did, more then she could say and more certainly then she could state in front of Nicci who had taken the entire Marty Harper thing with the air of amusement that she could fall so low to be interesting in a man who was old, overweight, and most certainly unattractive. Fifi knew all those things as well, yet he had something greater then all that. It was as if he thought himself a noble knight who wished simply for a cause to live under the banner for. The only problem was that Fifi couldn't trust that the banner was hers, and not an enemy.

Clearly things where tense, Dominic just stared sharply as Marty explained about needing to apologize, a odd smile as he told of how he'd recognized their Auror. The Auror who was still missing. "Fifi you are a fool.. you hear he smiles and plays the clown while he has no doubt murdered one of our finest agents!" Dominic said in French as he put his hand on the hilt of his wand. While he might be old Dominic had been a Auror himself in his time and there was still a bit of life in him yet.
"Marty.. you didn't?" Fifi was honestly hurt, he couldn't have murdered Vincent in cold blood could he? "Ai'm sure it is a mistake.." Fifi said to Dominic just as a rather battered looking figure limping though the terminal towards them with one hand pressing a handkerchief to a wound above his eye came into view. Fifi was honestly shocked to the core of her being as she covered her mouth at the sight of Vincent, he'd obviously been in a struggle (though of course mostly he'd just knocked his bad knee on the urinal as he'd fallen and hit his head) but never the less appearances could be deceiving.

Martin was tired. He was sore still. His eye was still puffed and bruised and hurt. Sure, he slept on the flight over but let's not forget the several days of sitting in a daze of depression. He had been arrested. He had dropped... Well, okay, he had been fired but he should have been home trying to send out his CV or at least see if there was any place to send it to because he was now unemployed and eventually, the severance package that the firm was required to pay him, as well as the quite decent savings he had built up over the years of employment would run out. Let's not add the sudden request/demand to come to France only to be followed and have her show up with some other guy who he had no idea who it was and when he tried to guess seemed to offend her.

And then she did it. "Martin?" He repeated. "Well, fine though actually, in business meetings we usually go by last names, Ms. LaRoux." His voice was breaking and he blinked his eyes, trying to restore some sense of calm and bring back the feeling that making this trip had been the right thing to do. Somewhere over the Atlantic, Marty realized he believed that it was but now? Now he had no clue why he had listened and come. Now, he had had it and he was going to have his say for a change.

"You know what? I thought when I took you into town and we parted, we parted as friends. I've always thought friends stick up for each other and when that damn photo was broadcast to the crowd at that ......... Whatever the hell it was that night, I just couldn't let it be flashed around without anyone defending my friend so I did. I still believe that damn thing was phony and that was not you in it originally. I've had the shit kicked out of me for it. I've been arrested when I was the one attacked. I've spent most of a night in jail. I've been fired because I refused to tell my employer why I did what I did because I didn't think it was any of her goat damn business. I've come here simply because you ask only to be followed all around by some dude into the bathrooms...." As she interrupted, Marty answered, "Hit him? Hell, I didn't. Don't know about here but in Manhattan, you don't put up with that shit. I'm sore. I'm tired. I'm unemployed and apparently, I'm not even an acquaintance to you so I have no fucking idea why you had me come here."

Looking at Dominic, he added. "Hit me, arrest me, kill me. I don't give a shit but decide fast cause I'm going home. I have job hunting to do." Marty turned to head toward a ticket counter.

"Ai did not know we where in such a meeting Martin" Fifi narrowed her eyes at Marty, so Dominic was right? "Forgive me for thinking that anything you did was not business related.." could it be that Marty was the greatest spy America had ever had? That underneath the rumpled exterior that had managed to get under her skin was nothing more then a front to misdirect her? Was his voice different for emotion or was it that he was acting? Biding time and playing on her emotions all at once to whatever end. It seemed ridiculous, but then again there was no questioning how effective Marty had been at putting her off her game. Twice now she had lead Dominic into a position where he could be at risk, she had been arrested, caused a diplomatic scandal and worse, broken the law by putting a young man under a dangerous curse. All for what? That was the part where Fifi was left wishing to pull her hair out. She didn't know. She didn't know why Marty mattered to her, she wasn't attracted to him physically, they where far apart in age, class and social stature and yet she had done all this..

Maybe it was just her own instinct for self destruction that had allowed him to play her so effectively? It was better for her not to feel, to harden her heart against his words as Nicci put a hand on her shoulder. Fifi didn't know if it was to comfort her, display his ownership of her or to stop her from commuting a act of violence upon Marty right here in front of all these witnesses. Either way she didn't like it, but having seen how Marty had reacted before she left Nicci's hand there. Let him think what he wished, Dominic would be angry to have not found any useful intelligence about this 'She' who employed Marty but with his real name and passport details there was at least a new lead to follow.

It was with a cold heart that she listened to Marty rant, no longer could she trust any word from his mouth and she was hardly amused by the re-hash of what she already knew. The only piece of insight was that he had been fired by whoever 'she' was. Disgruntled employee, yes the act suited him to a tee. "She.. she.. she.. Ai should have known it all along" Fifi tipped her sunglasses to Marty in a respect of one well played act. "Tell me ..'friend'..was there ever a moment when you where not under the order of this elusive 'she'" Fifi punched the words with airquotes, her long nails making a comical threat of the words. "You think Ai wished for all this to happen? You think Ai wished for some fat, boring American to step into my life and mess it all up? Ask Nicci.. ask Vincent who you attacked without one bit of provocation.. this is not one of those ridiculous Hollywood films Marty.. Ai did tell you that if you did lie there would be consequences so all Ai wish to know was why really where you in that small field in Australia? Why did you happen to be there and why where you also trailing Mr Reid's protest.. why did you call in on the radio and yet though all of this you refuse to see what is right in front of you!"

Fifi raised her arm.. wand in hand.. Dominic was immediately vicious as he grabbed Fifi's wrist and wrenched it down behind her back. "Not Here.. I will not have you break the statue in my own country Fifi!.." Blended with the crowd more Aurors where stepping into view, all looking to Dominic for what to do next as Vincent just glared at Marty. "Let him go.. if he does not wish to know the truth then so be it..." Dominic ordered. Reluctantly the other Aurors stepped away to let Marty though.
"I hate you.. " Fifi said to Dominic, her wrist aching as she tried to pull it out of her grasp. Despite the cold act to Marty there was tears in her eyes, while she couldn't believe in him, and had done everything it seemed in her power to push him away Fifi did, deep down feel the sting of the word Friend.
Agent or not, lying or not for that one day when they had first met Fifi truly did feel like she had found a friend. Now she'd scared him away forever.

Had there been a desk present, Marty would have definitely been applying it to his forehead repeatedly as Fifi ranted over his admittedly snarky comment back to her over his name. "Oh come off it. Maybe I should ask the same of you? What the hell were you doing buried up to your neck in a field? At least I was there, working on research. I'm a scientist. A forensic scientist and that's what we do. We go out in the field and research and find out why things happen. Like the reported sightings of a blank panther in the bush of Victoria. It was all over the news and papers there," he shouted back to her, standing his ground with the frustrating, annoying, rude French woman that for some reason he could not get out of his mind lately. "I wasn't working when I ignored my assignment to find out what the story was and if the panther sightings were real and if so, why it was out of its natural territory to dig you out. Would you or Dominic here by happier had I just left you there? " he asked, thoroughly on a roll now. "I wasn't working when I called that weird radio station.... You heard those?" he paused to ask, surprised but continued on. "I stopped working and threw it all out the proverbial window when I tried to do what I thought was the right thing that night, not that it apparently mattered and yes she. The owner of the private firm I used to have a job with doing scientific research which obviously means I sure as hell am not working now when I answered your summons to appear for apparently more abuse."

Fat? Boring? So that was what she thought of him. So much for friendship. He shut up then except to turn to Vincent and apologize. Realizing he was currently too upset to try to deal with anyone at the ticket counters enough to be civil and beginning to feel suffocated by the hurt her words caused yet refusing to give her the satisfaction of witnessing it and seeing that Dominic wasn't going to stop him, he stormed out of the terminal........

........ forgetting that Paris traffic was worse than Manhattan until there was the loud screeching of tires.

Fifi laughed "Ai was drunk...." and yes she was telling the truth, "drunk and going home with that Qudditch Player... you remember him yes? Well of course he wasn't all that but for a little bit.. he was okay while he held out and well.. once we got to the field it all seemed rather..fun?" and that was why Fifi didn't tell the truth. People always put so much weight on honesty but why did one have to dwell on every past choice. Of course that didn't explain the hole but hardly was she going to give away a trade secret like that. Being angry usually made Fifi lose with her tongue and while she didn't know whether or not Panther's where exotic to Australia or not it was a simple matter to explain exactly what could cause such a thing "Well that's hardly a Mystery Marty.. It was probably just a shapeshifter". Because of course that made perfect sense.

Marty was yelling now, Fifi didn't much care for it as she gave him a cold smile "You could have left moi, Ai would have been perfectly fine had it not been for your stumbling in. Your kind are always stumbling in where they are not wanted" Fifi said not caring for what Marty was going on about. "Ai See..she is the owner.. it's amazing you have not married her yet!" Fifi snarked, the husband comment still on her mind. It was only Dominic stepping in that could cool Fifi, furiously she turned on him instead. It was enough of a distraction that when she turned back Marty was walking away. "Let go of me" Fifi said to Dominc as she slipped out of his grip. Massaging her bruised wrist and ego Fifi "Que tu es emmerdant!" she shouted at Nicci, not caring that people had stopped to look at them.
"Come on now Fifi, there is nothing you can do for him and you know it" Dominic said as he took her wrist..gently this time and started to lead her towards the exit where the automobile was awaiting them.

Stepping out there was a strong dip in the temperature, Fifi and Dominic had of course charmed themselves before leaving the car to resist the weather but outside it was clear that others where not so lucky. Somewhere there was a screech of tires, Dominic ignored it but ever alert Fifi turned..
was Marty truly insane? What on earth was he doing out the road like that? Even with their argument Fifi wasn't about to let the man get himself killed. It was her fault that he was in Paris after all, she
owed a obligation that he at least survived the trip to return to his sad little life in New York city.

Had Marty not been so angry and hurt, more the latter than anything, he would have caught Fifi's use of the word shapeshifter and paused to find out what she was talking about. He did however catch her snarky remark making fun of his error regarding who Dominic was. "Because she is ... Was my boss and even if she wasn't, half the staff referred to her as Ice McQueen. Damn it Fifi, if all you wanted was to argue and insult me, why didn't you just put it in your letter," Marty shouted back as a parting shot and headed out the terminal, not paying attention to where he was until the car screeched to a halt. Apologizing yet again, he stepped back onto the sidewalk, before hailing a cab and heading straight to the Louvre.

Yes, Marty's answer to stress was to simply head to the nearest museum and let the talents of men long gone sooth him back to a reasonable state. Unfortunately, there wasn't much time left in the day for that but he used what time there was as best he could, spending time in the gallery before it closed. From there, the made his way to the Left Bank and found a table at one of the cafes, ordering a coffee and just staring out at the Seine as it made its journey past him. By this time, any anger had left him and he was left with what seemed to be an emptiness at the destruction of whatever bit of friendship might have been between him and Fifi. Or had there been any, after all, she had made it clear what she thought of him.

"What am I doing here?" he asked quietly, to no one in particular.

Fifi had moved past the point of not caring and into the barrier that she held between herself and the world. In a way she was in a constant state of ruin, the complete picture she put to the world nothing but smoke and mirrors for what felt like nothing underneath. Everything she did, every lie, ever sin grew on it till she felt like it might chip her away to nothing. All she had wanted was to talk to Marty, face to face like two real people. Everywhere she went there was Muggles talking and being with one another without any of the pressure or demand that she felt whenever she was in public. Even away from the limelight she was fearful that any contact or discussion with strangers could shatter her peace. It was safer to hide away and attack, push Marty away even as the rest of her hated herself for doing it. Go figure that when she was trying to be nice there was nothing she could say that wouldn't make matters worse.

Having Dominic there to witness was the last straw, Fifi hit Dominic, struggling as he dragged her back towards the car "Leave him" for a man of his age Dominic still had enough strength to force Fifi into the back seat. Following her sent one of the agents who had tailed them to the car to set up a trace on Martian Harper, and to keep their distance this time. It did not bother Dominic that Fifi refused to talk or look at him on the drive back, it was hardly the first time she'd played that game. "Drop her at home.. we will talk later" Dominic told the driver as they stopped outside of the Ministry, stepping out he had a busy afternoon of business to do, reports to read, underlings to sideline and all the usual bureaucracy to quell. If Dominic loved Fifi for anything it was that she forever managed to distract him from the tedium that was public office.

There was always a infinite supply of work to be done but choosing to check in with the Auror assigned to head up the trace on Martin Harper Dominic was pleased to hear that he had calmed and not created a scene. With a nod he quickly wrote down the address of the Cafe that the man had been spotted at before grabbing his coat and took the floo to a nearby safe zone. The city was dotted with such little nooks and crannies hidden from Muggle eyes where Wizards could Floo or apparate in safety of being spotted by unaware Muggles.
At one with the city Dominic had no problem finding the cafe, ordering the house special he was about to sit at Marty's table when he overheard the younger man observe the very question that caused such a scene earlier that morning. "A very good question Mr Harper" Dominic had managed to spend a little time on the file his colleges in the French intelligence agency had managed to pull together. "I mean no offense of course but you must understand that a women such as Fifi, well it is much like you Americans do love your firearms. She is beautiful, charming and destructive beyond measure" Dominic had broken a minor rule of politeness as he sat down. However after the scene earlier today had made anything clear it was that the only way he would be able to get anything out of Marty was to do all he could to difuse the situation as fast as possible. "You do not mind my being here? It is just that the coffee is especially fine" because of course Dominic had just been passing though, not that he'd wasted a good part of the defense department trailing a solitary Muggle through the city.

Marty started a bit at the sound of the somewhat familiar voice, not expecting anyone in the city to know him, at least anyone he knew that he wanted to be in touch with other than those involved in the scene at the airport. He had professional connections within the city, other forensic scientists that he had met at various conferences and such but since he had not contacted them that he would be in Paris, they wouldn't have expected to see him sitting at a cafe. This voice, however, he had heard earlier that day.

"Please, just Marty," he asked the Minister of whatever the department was that he had told Marty earlier. Some of that was a blur, unfortunately, not the things Marty wished were a blur. "I'm really sorry about your staff member," he began, "I had no idea Fifi would be sending anyone official to meet me. I just... I don't know what I expected," he told Dominic. "Just, I know it wasn't any of that." He did manage a wry grin as Dominic compared Fifi to a loaded gun. "Not all of us Americans, personally, I can't stand them but I understand what you mean about her," he agreed.

As the Minister asked if Marty minded him being there, Marty shook his head. "Not at all," he told him. "Actually, in a way, I think I'm glad you happened by," Marty admitted. "Gives me a chance to apologize and hopefully when I board a flight home in a few hours, you'll not think me a total, what were her words? Fat, boring man who makes scenes in airports."

"Very well.. Marty" Dominic's manner was crisp if a little stiff however he did manage to put a sense of ease as he shook his head "That, would have been my doing" he explained when Marty apologized. "Vincent was my decision.. as it was he was sloppy, had he done his job correctly you would not have seen him at all". Dominic did not make apologies, he was of the opinion that to be a leader one had to take every decision and move forward from it. There was no mistakes simply... new opportunities. Such as the one sitting before him. Dominic did have to hand it to Fifi that she was correct, Martin.. or Marty as he insisted could quite well be a interesting asset if they where to discover who was behind the ruckus at the American Ministry. After all one did have to admit that while the protest itself had been a failure there was always a concern that encouraging people to take to the streets would prove just as infectious to the Magical world as it did to the Muggle.

Dominic looked out the window, he did not envy his Muggle counterpart in the least and for the short stint that he'd been forced to take over during some less.. then stable times he'd been more then happy to withdraw to his own area of specialties. "Yes well I am not a fan of them myself either" Dominic simply stated, Firearms where just the latest in a long line of Muggle inventions to try and mimic the powers of the magically inclined. Unfortunately they did forget that the power in magic came from the scarcity of such powers.. not in having as many weapons as one could. It was all about quality after all.

While Dominic often put forward the front of being two steps ahead in any occasion he was honestly surprised when Marty said he was glad to see him. After what had happened that morning Dominic had resided himself to a uphill battle so it was a positive that things may well be easier then expected. "Ah, so I guess it was a bit of luck that I had two of my best men trail you after all" Dominic posed it as a wry joke, but he left it open as to if it was merely a joke or a observation. "I did not wish for you to leave with such a .. negative .. view of our fine country, how did you find the Museum anyway? I hear some of their exhibitions this season where a little.. uninspired." Dominic asked before sitting back when his coffee was served. Unlike Fifi Dominic was not fussy about his drinks and took a polite sip before nodding his satisfaction with it.

"I do believe you are hardly in a position to apologize, Fifi was under my employ and broke trust to treat you in such a way. Had it not been for the fine souls at the consulate we might not have known of your arrival at all" Dominic simply stated. He did have to laugh though, Fifi did have a way of talking that was often hard to forget. "You should feel privileged, most would be lucky to get her attention at all.. and trust me the worst she has used to describe myself.. well they would best not said in polite company." Dominic crossed his arms in front of him before looking to either side to ensure that nobody was paying them any particular attention. "The cusp of the matter Marty is that she is what is best described as a fractured soul.. we do the best we can to help her but like many survivors there is a limit" Dominic did not have a fully fledged plan yet but there was an idea forming, one that Fifi herself no doubt would disapprove of but Dominic knew that if Marty was going to be any use of all he had to know the truth about what he was getting into.

Marty looked up at Dominic and raised an eyebrow in a combination of surprise and question as he listened to the man admit he was the one who sent a staff member to meet/follow/keep up with Marty's arrival. He managed another wry smile as Dominic admitted Vincent should not have been seen. "Just remind him that New Yorkers do not survive by not being aware of their surroundings much. Though I really did not hit him, just was going to hang onto him till he explained what was going on. I pushed a little to hard, he slipped and the rest is, as they say, history," Marty explained. "Hope he's okay." Marty really did not like hurting anyone, even by accident.

By this time Marty was not sure if the man across from him was joking about having him tailed all day or not but the way things had been happening lately, Marty was beginning to believe it was not a joke. "Well, they definitely did manage to stay hidden this time," he half joked back, "Though as our....." He winced and paused then corrected himself, sounding a little sadder at the fact, "Your friend, Fifi said earlier, this is not one of those ridiculous Hollywood films." Marty continued sipping on his coffee as Dominic explained why he had him tailed.

As the conversation turned to his museum visit, Marty nodded. "It was rather calming. I didn't look at the rotating exhibits, preferred to spend some time contemplating the likes of Watteau, Corot, Heem." When Dominic did turn the conversation back to Fifi, Marty said nothing. He did not like the strange hurt he felt at the way things had gone. Though when Dominic finished, he stared into his coffee cup as the man continued with his description of Fifi. When he finished, Marty did not look up but acknowledged all that had been told him with a quiet but honest, "Law of Attraction, like attracts....." leaving the balance unfinished. Marty understood fractured soul more than he desired to admit. Sometimes occurrences caused it, sometimes nothing happening caused it. But the result could be the same.

Trying to shake off the familiar lonely feeling continuing on those thoughts would bring him, he looked directly at Dominic. "So tell me this, Dominic Benoit. What is so interesting about this fat, boring unemployed forensic scientist that has caused you to put your department of whatever that fancy title you rattled off earlier was to work keeping track of me since I arrived?" He wasn't angry or upset. Marty's researcher's nature had now kicked in and he was curious and he really did not believe the words earlier had been those of a light hearted joke. Besides, it wasn't like he didn't have any time on his hands.

"Oh I am sure Vincent has learned his lesson quite well thank you" No doubt Vincent Vincent was soon to be the butt of the office jokes after being taken down by a American in such a way. Listening intently to Marty's words Dominic nodded, satisfied that they matched the incomplete report Vincent had been able to provide. "He will be just fine" Dominic stated it as fact, the healers had already seen to the wound and given him a clean bill of health notwithstanding. "He has agreed not to sue.. however in return I must ask that you refrain from causing injury to any more of my staff" Dominic gave a small wry smile at the joke. Within the cafe Dominic was quite pleased of the set up, one might have noticed had they been looking that nobody managed to glance in their direction or seemed to notice them at all, even by french levels it was unusual. He allowed a small smile at the comment that his men had done their job correctly, Dominic did not consider it nessercary to mention that if at any time Marty had shown himself to be a threat his men had been aurorised to use lethal curses to bring him down.

"Friend? No Fifi is my protégée yes but I am sure she would be the first to tell you that we are not, in any of the traditional sense..friends." Dominic paused to take a measured sip of coffee. "No doubt Fifi would describe me most horribly for what has happened to you today, and for not stepping in when you where arrested.. how did you manage to make bond by the way?" It was a curious question, Dominic could have paid the bond to have the man released but by the time his man had arrived the next day it had already been arranged. "No doubt Fifi means that much as Hollywood might endeavor to show our world as exciting and dangerous the fact is that in most cases such things are limited by the knowledge that in the real world people die" another sip of coffee, as if he'd been merely discussing the draft picks for the next Quidditch game. "..they on occasion do disappear as well of course" Dominic added, a small frown. He did not enjoy the knowledge but there had been more then a few occasions that Hit Wizards had been dispatched to deal with particular incidents of national interest. It was the same in all parts of the world no doubt that every so often one person would have to 'disappear' at precisely the right time.

"Ah yes, I am not partial to the work of Corot or Heem, alas still life is not my passion.. whereas Watteau's Jupiter and Antiope.." Dominic clicked his finger "utter perfection". However art did tire him, Paris was a city of art and long tired of such conversation. "Hardly" Dominic stated giving Marty the look over, if there was anyone more unlike Fifi LaRoux then this man here well.. Dominic would not of believed it. Just how had it been that Fifi LaRoux, star of the social scene would risk everything for someone who looked like they had never stepped in to a fashion boutique in their life? Dominic just had to feel fortunate that he wasn't as bad as some of the others who had taken Fifi's intrest for a short peroid of time. Indeed now it was that Marty was trying to get answers from him? "Very good Mr Harper.. the answer is quite simple." Dominic placed his hands flat on the table in front of him as he spoke. "While it is not known to your kind the fact is that Fifi LaRoux is some what of a celebrity here in France, a real life Jane Bond as you might say." Dominic gave a small smile at the joke "She is a asset, one which has won the hearts and minds of many both at home and abroad and landed quite a bit of prestiege and value to our department. One that others are in kind to envy". Dominic paused to let the words sink in before continuing "Now to this picture add a man who appears to be no one, is not on our files and yet for whatever reason Fifi has chosen to take a interest in. A man who then as Fifi stated managed to be in the right place not once, but twice and of course one had to show a element of suspicion".

Dominic gave Marty a glance before returning to his drink for a moment. "The fact of the matter is that our government has invested quite a large amount of time and money into ensuring Fifi LaRoux remains with us. Yet somehow you have managed to undo much of that work, Fifi is more distracted, emotional and difficult to deal with since the incident where you two first met. She has withheld information and gone against a direct order in bringing you here" Dominic at last shrugged "It seemed the least one could do would be to find out why". Dominic knew that Fifi was a problem, she had always been a problem ever since the day she had joined the department he had seen her as something beautiful but broken and just needing the right hand of patience to fix. Now it frustrated him that all his work could be undone by some American fool who didn't even know what it was that he was dealing with. Such was his luck, but Dominic would do what it took to get her back, after all he'd wasted too much time to give up now.

At the question of his bond, Marty looked up. "I did," he answered. "I've worked most of my life. My expenses are covered. Invest occasionally, yes safely," he added quickly sure it was rather obvious he was not the type to do high dollar high risk investing. "Save up all along, it all adds up. I'm not wealthy but I do have some savings. Of course, you only have to actually pay a percentage and guarantee the rest. First arrest, pretty much good recognance release as well." Yes, thankfully, Marty had never been arrested before so getting himself out would have been easy. "I asked when they released me if Fifi needed bond but they said hers was being covered."

Was the answer to his question really as simple as Dominic wanted him to believe? Marty didn't know but he listened at the man explained. Somehow, it did not surprise him to find out he apparently was Fifi's latest 'fascination'. However, it was beginning to irk Marty how somethings kept being referred to. "First, Dominic, I had no idea Fifi was in either of those places. From what I've seen today and what you've been telling me, which thank you for being up front and honest, I'm sure you can search my travel records, my cell phone usage, even my internet history and confirm this but I never expected to stumble across anyone buried in mud in a field in a tiny place in Australia called Drouin. I don't know what she told you about that meeting but I did what I could to help her, same as I would anyone. Somehow, it seemed we apparently make some sort of connection. Kindred spirits? I don't know. I just know she's rather unforgettable."

Marty took another drink of his coffee and looked out at the Paris night for a bit before continuing. "I worked for a firm that handles investigations of odd occurrences, such as the one that brought me to Australia then. Usually, I travel alone though sometimes a team of two may go out. It was this firm that apparently knew about this rally occurring at that particular location. Out of no where, it seemed suddenly Fifi was there." Marty paused. "Though honestly, I couldn't see any reason that I needed to observe what was happening. It was a simple protest rally and probably would have remained at that if I hadn't seen that fake photo and spoke out."

As Dominic explained the problems that had arisen since that chance meeting in Australia, Marty contemplated what he was saying. "Really, I don't know what could have happened to cause that because really, nothing happened between us that would ... Could be considered as ..." Marty didn't know exactly how to describe what didn't happen. "She was in trouble, I helped as best I could since the other guy that was there wasn't much help. I just treated her like I treat anyone, like a human being who deserves consideration and respect till they prove otherwise."

However, Marty couldn't hold back the question that kept getting pushed to the front. "Yeah, what is with that 'your kind' and 'one like you'? You've said it tonight and Fifi did as well when we were being arrested and she was telling me it was best we not see each other anymore. I get that she's well out of my social stratosphere."

"I see.." Dominic just said leaving the words on their own. It was rather a amusing fact to listen to a man discuss safe investment when so much of Europe was marred in the dangers of less well thought though decisions. Dominic had not been popular for refusing to link the gallon standard with the local currency, but there was no doubt that it had profited kindly on the magical population as the local currencies fell. More people where investing in gold then ever before they said. Dominic himself had always been one to take risks, moving investments just as quickly as the market grew and fell with reckless abandon. He was much more wild in his own affairs then in that of his statehood which had to count for something though. "Very kind of you" Dominic stated when Marty explained about covering Fifi's bond, "of course I would hardly be much of a boss if I was to let my employees languish away in a Police station." But of course that was exactly what Dominic had done in punishing Fifi.

Listening to Marty Dominic folded his hands elegantly before him as the man explained and went on the defensive. He let the man speak rather then interrupt until he seemed satisfied "Unforgettable yes" he nodded. If there was a single word to describe Fifi it would be that. "As for the rest of your claims.. I'm glad to inform you that it is complete nonsense, had we even attempted to access such personal information we would find ourselves up against the Commission nationale de l'informatique et des libertés" Dominic couldn't help giving America a small dig as he added "of course America has no such requirement for personal privacy but here in Europe such things do matter". Yes, Dominic couldn't legally collect such data, that was why they outsourced to Mtech who where based far outside of their jurisdiction after all. It seemed though that such things would not be required. Marty was speaking freely, a good thing since it saved on Veritaserum after all. "A firm?" Dominic asked, so he had two clues of the puzzle, a woman head and a firm that seemed to be tied to the false images. "So you have no idea why your expertise where chosen to observe on that particular occasion?" Dominic had to think on this, it was very much attempting to play battleships against a opponent who you had no clue as to where or how they would next fire.


It was when Marty took turn to ask 'the' question that Dominic had to laugh, a charismatic smile as he gave the man a expression of whatever being said being just between the two of them. "Fifi tells me that you are a man of science, and indeed you have held yourself like a true agent not unlike those Movies spoken of earlier." For a moment he held up a finger as if stopping the conversation and went about luring a waitress to their table, ordering a bottle of table wine he waited to see if Marty wanted anything more before watching as the waitress was outside of hearing range before continuing. "Fifi was no doubt trying to do you a kindness, you see there are laws Marty that we must live by, Laws that require Fifi and myself to be not as forthcoming with the truth as one might wish to be in order to protect ourselves and others. Of course one of my position could chose to flaunt them and it is my right after all, however there are further issues that a man of science and logic such as yourself would no doubt find what I would say wholly unbelievable.. no doubt you would think myself to be joking or even deranged to suggest what it is I know to be a fact" it was clear that he was giving Marty a choice, Dominic did not care much for one or the other. Either Marty would learn the truth and Dominic would have to later wipe such knowledge from his mind, or Marty would refuse and continue to live out his life not knowing that so much that he based his rational logic on was a lie. The net sum in total was the same, order would remain and a problem would be dealt with, that was all Dominic considered important after all.

Marty smiled at the news Vincent would be fine. He really did hate hurting anyone if he did not have to. That is not to say he would not defend himself or another if the situation called upon him to do so but he would not strike out needlessly with intent to hurt someone on purpose. As he had said, it was actually an accident. "Not a problem, be glad to promise that. Don't have any that know how to play cribbage or 500 Rummy, do you?" he asked with a grin. It was logical that Dominic was going to continue to have him followed and watched. It was equally logical to Marty that it was better off to work with it and accept it rather than play 'dodge the tail' the entire time he was in Paris, even if only a few hours. Considering the time though, he was beginning to feel that it was going to be at least another day or two. If only he knew what the weather back home had in store for all.

At the mention of being not much of a boss if Dominic had let Fifi wallow in jail which, of course Marty had no idea did happen for a few hours but then his boss never offered to reimburse his bond. "Hey, she still has her job too, at least," Marty said with a wry sarcasm directed back to his own previous employer rather than Dominic, which the topic of conversation soon turned around too. "Yes, a private firm..." he hesitated, "Let me rephrase that, I've always understood it to be a private firm but sometimes, over the years, little things seemed out of place." Yes, Marty had noticed odd things here and there and his brain filed them away. Sometimes, he even went as far as making notes in his private journal. He'd always thought maybe one day he'd look back at them and see if they still looked out of place or had it been just the feeling of the moment.

And then came the question one again about why he had been at the Rally. "As I said earlier, I'm what's referred to as a forensic scientist. Usually, they work within a court system. Coroner is a field within the forensic sciences. It's what I thought I would end up doing but then McQueen approached me about working for her. Instead of using various sciences to investigate the who and why of a crime, I would go out and investigate the what and why of occurences," Marty explained. "But scientifically. Collecting samples, finding evidence such as particles or prints, or whatever to explain how an event occurred. Never just 'watch this protest and tell me what happens'. " If this was a game of battleships, Marty had felt like a small cruiser who had come close to being sunk when he was sent out to that protest. "No explanation or anything. Definitely won't get one now."

In some ways as Dominic answered his question, the answer given was only full of more confusion yet, in some ways, it was rather clarifying in a very logical way. Marty sat back in his chair and listened as the French Minister began, once the waitress had brought the requested wine and left. "Dominic, a few days ago, heck probably as I was boarding the plane, I would have probably thought you were either having a joke at my expense or still referring to spies and agents," Marty said, quietly but firmly. "But anymore, I'm beginning to suspect my logic is missing a few bits of information that it really needs to judge a lot of things fairly. I also suspect that this lack of knowledge was something my former employer knew about and did her best to ensure it stayed that way,"

Marty said, the years of employment and events replaying in his mind. Marty was also a very observant man, it came with being a scientist. Observation was a major part of any research and/or experiment. He had seen Dominic's reaction a couple of times, slight though they were, to mention of his ex-employer. Passing him a now incorrect business card, he told the Frenchman, "That's where I worked. Something tells me there's more to that place than I realized before and that it interests you. I don't like being kept in the dark by someone I was supposed to have trusted. How can I help you and Fifi?"

"Possibly" Dominic just replied to the comment, he of course had no idea what 500 Rummy or cribbage was. Cards where not a area of interest for him. It seemed that Marty was going to be quite easy to handle. Maybe he did owe Fifi a element of thanks after all for bringing the man to France, it was certainly easier then having to concern himself about the impressions given to Frump and his people after all. Home territory advantage allowed Dominic to pick and chose, of course having the extra time to work on Marty would help as well. Dominic was sure that if they could not make a arrangement by the end of the discussion that there would be plenty of time to 'accidentally run into' one another again before Marty returned home.

"Oh yes, much as Fifi might vex me on occasion one is wise enough to think of the bigger picture. Would I prefer Fifi LaRoux to work for someone else?" Dominic pretended to muse on such a thought for a second. "It would be much like your Manhattan Project, perfecting the perfect atom bomb before handing it over to those who wish you the most harm". Dominic had always had a 'interesting' relationship with France's nuclear program. In one way he was proud of his nation having the third largest nuclear arsenal in the world. Yet at the same time there was the obvious security concern of the weapons one day coming into the wrong hands. One did not have to think of what could have happened if Lord Voldemort had chosen to make use of warheads. Of course such was exactly what Dominic was planning for Marty. What better way to learn about this secretive figure who had manipulated the protest rally then from their own former disgruntled employee? All he needed was a act of faith from Marty that the man was truly willing to work on their side against his former employer.

"You seem a man of many valuable skills" Dominic stated as Marty finished his explanation of what he did and how he had come to the protest. A idea was forming in Dominic's mind but of course there was one big issue that first had to be dealt with. Dominic needed to know that Marty could be trusted. For the moment Dominic remained in keeping his thoughts to himself, simply taking the card offered to him. Dominic took it with two fingers, quickly glancing before putting it away in his front pocket so it would be safe. He would have his divination people look over it to see what kind of information it could give. "No doubt your suspicions are correct Marty" Dominic said before stopping the conversation again as the wine arrived. "Wine?" Dominic offered before pouring a measured amount into his cup. He usually drank only to moderation, the 'outlandish' performance on the Cherry Clinger show being purely a act to get on the nerves of their American host's counterpart. "At this moment I think you would be best to enjoy your holiday, we will see that your return and accommodation will be comfortable. It is important however that you continue as you where once you return to America to keep this meeting and the identities of Fifi and myself under wraps".

Dominic finished his wine, pretending to be relaxed and will full time to talk he was of course pushing the conversation forward along the lines that Marty would either agree or protest. Either way he had the information he needed now. Fifi no doubt would be able to handle the rest. But what to do with Marty Harper? That was indeed a puzzle that required some thought. "Tell me, Mr Harper... if I was to tell you that deep below the city there was a room where one could enter and by spending his time walking in concentric circles leave the room in the past.. precisely the number of moments that he had spent within. Would you call me crazy?" Dominic put the question forward quite innocently. France had of course signed the Time-Travel Accord Pact that banned all study and practice of magic to forward the advances of study into time travel, however since the destruction of the last Time Turners foolishly stored at the Ministry of Magic in England.. along with the claims that such technology had been used for academic measures well.. Dominic considered it only fair that France would be less then forthcoming about their own research projects in the department of mysteries.

Marty figured he was going to be watched and there was no sense making whoever it was creep around in the shadows. He did not plan to give anyone the slip and couldn't think of anywhere he wanted to go that he didn't care if Dominic knew about. He had been to Paris before once or twice and knew that he'd probably visit the museum again and the Left Bank if left to his own devices. Of course, at the time, he wasn't sure he'd be there more than a few days.

Marty couldn't help it, he had to laugh at Dominic's description of why he would not take away Fifi's job from her. "A very apt description, I do believe from what I have seen of her, " Marty admitted, beginning to feel as if he could relax with Dominic and trust the man, at least more than he currently trusted his previous employer. Though as Dominic commented on Marty being a man of valuable skills, he shrugged and offered, "Yes, well apparently one of them is not being communicative since I wouldn't answer McQueen's questions. I have to admit, in all the years I worked there, I never saw Victoria McQueen that angry, and she has been angry."

As the conversation paused for the arrival of the wine, Marty shook his head at Dominic's offer. "Thanks but not tonight," he told him. For now, he had had enough alcoholic beverage and realized what he really wanted soon would be a chance to just rest. He'd have to do a bit of clothes shopping in the morning as it was since he had not expected to remain here more than a couple of hours. At Dominic's assurances and request, Marty assented to the fact that any information about the pair would not be divulged. Obviously, he had proved that much regarding Fifi and if Dominic was her employer and, well friend even if the man said it wasn't quite that, it was obvious he had concern for his employee, then it was important to Marty they be kept safe.

It was the question that Dominic proposed to Marty that resulted in Marty sitting quietly and contemplating it for a moment. "First, I'd probably ask to see it because the curiosity and questions it's presenting already are encouraging me to find answers. There's a reason for everything and a reason for how something works or happens," he answered, firmly for after all that was what he was, a forensic scientist who hunted for answers. Then, with an almost sheepish grin, he also admitted, "Then I'd probably be trying to figure out how to make it useful by finding if there's a way to cut down the time you had to spend in it to get more time in the past." It wasn't that magic was firmly fiction, it was more that Marty had never seen any. If there was a logic to it, such as Gamp's Law which he had no clue existed yet, then it was possible. He just had to discover it was there.

"Consider yourself lucky that it's all you've seen of her" Dominic warned, he spoke light heatedly however there was truth in the matter that when vexed Fifi LaRoux was a war onto herself. "McQueen?" the name tugged at his memory but Dominic shrugged, he would deal with that later. At least until Marty repeated the name. Victoria McQueen.. he couldn't mean.. Dominic burst out laughing as the name came back to him, Ice McQueen indeed. "You'll have to excuse me, Victoria McQueen.. I never suspected she would be involved due to her.. situation" it was the kindest to say that he knew her family where part of the ones believing that Muggles where best to be exterminated. So why on earth was she here hiring a Muggle to spy for her? "You where very wise not to give her the information" Dominic was thinking hard. He had to get this information to Fifi immediately and see that she returned to America to keep a eye on this McQueen. Something still didn't feel quite right.

While he'd ordered the wine to try and soften Marty up it was with a element of celebration that Dominic enjoyed the drink, Victoria McQueen.. this was certainly going to be fun and just the image of the woman's face in anger at how he had manged to control the situation to his own ends.. well it was worth every knut. "Very well then, but please, if there is anything you wish during your stay do not hesitate to call on our staff, they are most hospitable". Much as he would not admit it Dominic was rather enjoying this little meeting with the American, though he could not see what it was that Fifi could find attractive in him he was a curious sort and did make good company. Testing him was another amusement, Dominic mimicked the man's position curious to see what he would say. "I see, maybe if time permits I will see about getting you a invitation, in the strictest confidence of course" of course Dominic was toying with the poor man, it would take weeks to organize a visit to the department and the room itself was often sealed for one experiment or another.

It seemed for the moment that Dominic had exhausted what use Marty could be, however there was no doubt that the man would be a asset to the research department. However first he had to see about McQueen. From what he knew of the family they did not take being beaten at their own game very well at all. Taking a card out of his pocket Dominic offered it to Marty, a simple phone number with no other markings. "If you do feel in need of assistance, of any kind do call, in the meantime I must be going, enjoy your stay in Paris Marty". Standing he offered the man a handshake in farewell before seeing to the bill and seemingly vanishing into thin air a few moments after stepping outside of the cafe. One might have said it was almost magic.

Marty did consider himself lucky, as Dominic suggested, because he was fairly sure he had only seen the 'tip of the iceberg' as it were regarding Fifi LaRoux. He hoped he would never witness further because it was directed at him. However, as the topic turned to his former place of employment and Dominic verified the last name, Marty nodded. "Yes, McQueen..." Any other response was cut off by his companion's hearty laughter. Needless to say, Dominic's explanation was even stranger as he asked him what he meant by 'her situation' but he was at the point that he needed to consider other things discussed before he asked about her situation.

"Thank you, Dominic," he replied at the man's offer of assistance should Marty need any while staying in the city. Marty nodded at Dominic's hinting of the possibility of an invitation, responding with an "Of course" to the comment regarding the need for secrecy. Taking the offered card, Marty slipped it into his inside jacket pocket and stood as well. Taking the offered hand, he shook it firmly. "There's a hotel not far from here that I'll be staying at. I hope I get to meet with you again sometime, Dominic," he replied to the man. He found that, while the two had definite differences, they also had some things in common and he found himself respecting the French Minister's directness. It was refreshing after the coldness that was known as Victoria McQueen.

He watched as Dominic left the cafe and walked outside, blinking as it seemed the man vanished into thin air. Normally, Marty would have told himself he was seeing things and it did not happen, that he had blinked while Dominic turned a corner. Tonight, however, Marty decided that it was a topic to research another day.