It stays in the Family (Regalia in Listonia)

Roleplay Library
1

Yensey Layastrovyey, the leader of Sipani, made his way to the back of Iseli Rigeli, a well-to-do club in Ye’leli. The older vulpine male opened a door and, upon being led by a few more vulpines, arrived at a private bar with a few of the more recognizable faces in the Listonian criminal underground. He allowed his coat to be removed and hung nearby as another individual asked for any weapons, to which Yensey produced a 9mm from his side (polished and engraved with his name in Unonian, of course). He made his way past the cigar smoke and waiters bussing various tables to a corner of the room.

“Stapen,” he said. “So nice of you to join me.”

Evesuni, the leader of Yu Levolar, managed a slight smile as he beckond his longtime friend (and rival) to sit at the table with him. The Listonian Premier wore a thick pair of glasses, something he had recently acquired by had kept hidden from the public view. He didn’t want anyone to realize that he was indeed aging every day and deteriorating ever so slightly.

“What may I bring you?” a waiter asked.

“Clove vodka. Eh… Levistravi. Neat. Two glasses, one for me and my friend.”

“Very well, sir.”

Evesuni smirked as he set down his newspaper. “Only the top shelf, right?”

“I’m allowed to have good taste, aren’t I?” He noticed the top story in the paper. “You don’t read,” he affirmed.

“I’ve been learning. Been increasing my vocabulary. I can’t really lead without being able to have someone read to me my mail. Can’t trust anyone for that.”

Yensey smiled. “I’m proud of you for that, you know? Always able to turn mud into stone, I always say.”

“What’s that supposed to mean?”

“Oh, just, you know, you’re able to make the best out of what you got.” He nodded as the waiter set two glasses on the table and left. “And the notion of having a trans continental highway run right through Listonia. What wonders that will do for business.”

“What do you want?” Evesuni asked.

He smiled. “It’s my daughter. She is getting married. Such a wonderous celebration requires that I invite all those whom I speak to the most. I am inviting all heads to it, and they’ve all confirmed. Except for you. I decided to ask you last.”

“I don’t know.”

“This is a private ceremony, Kirin. No media. No funny business. It’s celebratory. And, seeing as you’re her godfather-”

“I don’t do any of that,” Evesuni piped up. “That’s a Vekaiyun tradition, not Listonian. If I go, I’d only show up.”

He shook his head. “Come now. It is I who will be granting favors. It is her wedding day, after all. You, you just need to show for it. It would mean a lot. It would mean a lot to me if you come.”

Evesuni grimaced as he sipped his drink. “I can’t really be doing any of that. They just got rid of that Lso kid for me. If they find out I head Yu Levolar-”

“It’s a miracle they haven’t,” he said with a smirk. “Or, perhaps more possible, they know but have chosen not to say anything.”

“If it gets in the wrong hands, though.”

“So what?” he said as he shrugged. “What are they gonna do anyway? Throw ya in jail? The people here love you. And Vekaiyu at least seems to be okay with you. You know? They haven’t killed you off yet.” He smiled.

“Yeah, well, I don’t like being put in these positions.”

“It was the only way I’d be able to get a yes out of you.”

Evesuni downed his drink. “Fine. I’ll be there. But you better be right. No funny business. No media attention.”

“Nothing of the sort.”

“And I am bringing some muscle just in case.”

“Wouldn’t have it any other way.”

“And I want no part of the ceremony.”

“I wouldn’t dream of someone outside of my organization taking part in it.”

“I’ll sit in the back of the church.”

“So long as you’re there, what’s the difference, eh?”

“No reception.”

“Oh, you gotta show for that. There will be a nice table set up towards the back. Far enough where no one bothers you, but close enough where you can see people dancing.” He looked up at him. “So long as you bring those glasses there. And there’s a bar, too. Anything you want.”

“I don’t drink in mixed company.”

“No weapons. We’ll have it made up like they have it over here. You can even bring in one of your guys to check too.”

Evesuni took off his glasses and rubbed his eyes. “Eh, what the hell. Give me the details and I’ll show.”

2

Evesuni was careful to remain inconspicuous through the whole oreal. He sat in the back during the ceremony. A private car took him away prior to the end of the ceremony. Of course, he arrived late to the reception and sat in the back, as he told Yensey Layastrovyey earlier. But, as he sat, others began to sat around him. They weren’t people he didn’t know, though. Enlil Y’vnastroyu of the criminal organization Lont sat down first, followed close behind by Layastrovyey’s kid brother, Reko. Ehjy Istroyey, anointed leader of the Vekaiyun mafia made a grand entrance, of course, because he was in Listonia and no one in Listonia could touch him or his territory. His wife followed close behind.

Stapen looked around the table, but didn’t say anything. The table was relatively quiet until drinks started arriving. Naturally, they ordered for the Listonian Premier, and the lively atmosphere soon made its way to the table.

“Eh, how about this wedding, there?” Enlil whispered as a crooner sang some songs during the dinner, entertaining the guests.

“How about some more wine there, Enlil?” Reko asked, flagging down the waiter before he could answer.

Evesuni shrugged. “It’s fine I guess.”

“Fine?” he laughed heartily. “Fine? Fine, I’ve not seen a celebration like this in years. I mean, it’s nice to…” he paused and noticed Evesuni was watching the singer, so he decided to hold his conversation until he finished with the entertainment.

After the applause, the best man gave a speech to the crowd of about 250 a speech about the groom.

“Who does this punk think he is?” Enlil whispered to the table. He grimaced when he threw in a casual swear word. “Who is he trying to impress with those words? He’s making himself out to be a clown.”

“That’s his brother,” Reko informed.

“Oy,” he replied. “And I’ve never heard of the name ‘Kavaleri’ before. Marrying into mud.”

Evesuni shrugged. “I was dirt poor and married. Didn’t bother me any. Better to be happy about it than miserable in money.”

The group nodded.

Eventually the speeches were finished and people started eating and chatting.

“Did you tell him yet?” Enlil whispered to Ehjy who sat next to him.

“Tell who what?” Evesuni sternly asked back as he finished a shot of clove vodka.

“Take it easy.” Ehjy smiled. “We and some of the other orgs wanted to ask you something. See, we had this idea - how can we make money on the level. Then it hit us. Casinos. Lots of them. Each organization building one. Kind of like a friendly game of sorts.”

Evesuni grimaced. “I don’t know.”

“They’re outlawed in Vekaiyu,” Ehjy said. “Even if you require them to donate something like 10 percent to the government, it’d make your state bank.”

“And we’d get to keep the rest,” Enlil added. “With those highway systems in place, think of all the business it’ll attract.”

“You get yours, we get ours. And no one will ever need to worry about money.”

“Look at all these poor slobs around here. Wouldn’t you rather have them spend their money at your casinos instead of on themselves?”

Evesuni paused to think. With Vekaiyu always a presence in Listonia these days, it may not be a bad proposition to find legitimate means to accumulate money and further their influence over Yasteria. “You have plans for these things?”

“Ye’leli, Evesunigrad, Cestinglavoiga, Relusi, all the major cities,” Ehjy replied. “The whole continent will gamble their money away. And if other organizations want in on this, well, they’ll contact us. But it’s up to us to let them in.”

Evesuni shrugged. “Why not. When can we have these things up, anyway?”

Ehjy smiled. “Construction began four months ago.”

“Yeah?”

“Yeah. If you said no we’d just turn them into booking agencies,” Enlil said with a laugh.

Evesuni shrugged. “Alright. But if we’re going to do this, I want transparency. Full transparency. That means no going behind my back.” He glared at everyone in the table. “I’ll let you all play nice. But if things change and people start changing rules.” He waved a finger. “I’ll drop you where you stand. And if you don’t believe me… world leaders can make people disappear quickly. This is my playground.”

“Of course.”

“We wouldn’t have it any other way, Stapen.”

“Then you better lay it all out with your plans there. Because no one here wants to deal with military.”

The table fell silent. “You wouldn’t-”

“I’m old. You’re older. We’re not going to be here for another ten years. So we’re going to play with that knowledge. You fuck me over, I will…” he picked up his empty shot glass. “Finish you off. Do you understand?”

“Yeah, of course.”

Enlil put a hand on Stapen’s arm, causing it to come down. “None of that. Come on. We’ve known each other for almost thirty years now.”

“Fine. But Yu Levolar chooses the buildings.”

“That’s the spirits!” Yensey Layastrovyey said as he sat down next to his brother. “Just think of the money.” He laughed as he raised a glass in toast. “To a new Listonia - one that takes care of the money from those saps all across Yasteria!”

3

“So without any other words or worry, I now… humbly request that the doors to the first Listonian casino, and the first operable casino in the Vekaiyu Union, Aquatico, open its doors and let the world inside.”

Evesuni, who wore a well-trimmed tuxedo complete with a red rose in the pocket, smiled after giving his practiced speech. He even had a little touch-up done designed to take the years off him. He did not have his glasses on. He didn’t use a cane or any other guide. Instead, he joined the congregation in applause as the red ribbon was cut on the aesthetic structure, constructed as a sandstone building with various “cut outs” of blue tinted windows arranged between the large “cracks” or “holes” in the sandstone edifice. Everything about the building sung opulence - even the stairs leading to the doors were constructed with beautiful stones colored from turquoise to periwinkle.

And the man who cut the ribbon? Tomasu Aglestroviniyey, the squeaky-clean frontman chosen to head the operation. Unlike any of the guys behind the scenes, he didn’t have connections to any particular criminal organization. He wasn’t stupid - he knew who he was working for and knew how to run a business. Prior to this opportunity, he ran a private loan firm that was far away from any particular spotlight. He smiled and saluted Evesuni, who returned the gesture with a warm smile.

It was all an act, of course. An act to make more money for the organizations that were at the very foundation of a Listonian state… only on the periphery. Leaders from Sipani, Lont, I’lagasi, and of course the Vekaiyun Mafia were present, though only the ones that had good rapport with the public.

“Now I hope you’ll give me some chip, there,” Evesuni said with a smile, followed by appropriate laughter from the crowd.

“Oh come on, it’s all on the level!” Tomasu Aglestroviniyey replied as individuals began filing into the building for a tour.

And it was. Everyone wanted to make sure it was on the level, because if this casino profited, others would be built around Listonia as well. It remained to be seen if this gamble was worth it, but as far as the people in charge of the place, everything was set up to ensure the house would eventually win. The floorplan was confusing and difficult to navigate. Waitresses and waiters provided drinks made with garbage alcohol - but what did anyone care? It was free, of course. Plus people were looser with their money when they had a drink or two in them. And if they won? Well, the plan was to keep them in the building for as long as possible. Because in the end, the house wins.

And in Listonia, the house always won.

4

Although Aquatico had been open for a few months now, most agreed that it needed a certain splash (no pun intended) to really put it on the map. And while the antiquated shells in Listonia proffered various plans and ploys, Stapen seemed to have a good idea. He received it while watching an underwater hockey game in Ye’leli. While the home team was outmatched against their Vekaiyun counterparts, perhaps, he figured, the playing field needed to be leveled somewhat. After all, Vekaiyun teams seemed much better than Listonian ones these days (and, frankly, every year for that matter), so why not host something on their home turf for a change?

“I want you to invite the heads of Urth to that casino of yours,” Evesuni said as he cradled a drink in his hand.

Tomasu Aglestroviniyey looked at him. “You think they’d actually go for it? I mean, we’re Listonians. By now we probably have a reputation. You know?”

He watched as the delegation from Ye’leli scored a point. Still far behind, however. “Nevermind the connotations. World leaders are attracted to money and power and the likes, you know? This isn’t a money-making opportunity, just some kind of get-together that shows we’re a legitimate power, you follow?”

He shrugged as the teams finned to the puck. “I don’t have the clout you do.”

Evesuni sighed. “Look all you need to do is send out an email. Like this, you see?”

— Begin quote from ____

Stapen K. Evesuni
Premier of Listonia

To whom it may concern,

We invite all world leaders to attend the Aquatico Regalia in Ye’leli on the 10th of March, 2017. By now you all have heard of the newest casino in Yasteria, and we are looking forward to hosting all interested nations in this regalia. Please, allow us to host this event and cater to your every need. Of course, we look forward to entertaining all prospective attendees.

To ensure your invitation, please respond in the given time. We hope all will accept this invitation, as we seek to entertain those in and around Urth. Be advised there may be a few surprises here and there, but we will be sure to keep the festivities active and entertaining. Allow us to entertain you, and we will fulfill your desires.

With best,
Stapen Evesuni
Premier of Listonia

— End quote

“How did you do that?”

Stapen shrugged. “I have individuals who can write it out more coherently. It is what it is.” He took a sip of his drink. “We’re in control here. Just let the invites pour in and we’ll take care of the rest. Let them waste their money while at the same time realizing how advanced Listonia is.” He looked over at Tomasu. “You know?”

“I guess so.”

5

Nimona got the message at three in the morning. A message with a Yasterian extension made it’s way into her “Important” inbox and now beeped urgently from the left of her bed. Being president had it’s pros and cons. President and first lady stirred in the bed and tried to block out the angry noise.

“What… what is it, Ni-ni? Is it bad?”

Nimona rubbed sleep out of her eyes and read. “It’s… some kind of party. An invitation.”

“Does it look fun?”

“'S at a casino. Looks expensive.”

“Ni-ni you know we don’t have the kiribs to gamble. Your salary isn’t… huge.”

“We wouldn’t have to toss money away. Just… show up and look pretty. Shouldn’t be hard for you.”

They kissed.

“Fine, sure. When is it?”

“Uhh… Three days. We should get packed.”

“This better not be another Arcturia.” She looked past the bed and out the window at the city. Her expression seemed to darken despite the neon and LED’s of the capitol.

Nimona couldn’t say anything to that for a second.

“I hope not.”

6

Ikrisia arched an eyebrow as she read the message on her computer. She finished sipping some tea and set it down on her desk as she pulled her chair over to draft up a response. If she knew her father, and she felt she knew much of him at this point, then there had to be more to this than a simple regalia. But what exactly was he planning? And why would he want to host something - he certainly wasn’t the kind of guy who was sociable. At least, she didn’t think he was.

Still, she certainly had to attend. While she wasn’t a gambler, she needed to be there to rub elbows, talk business, and perhaps have a little bit of fun now and then. She heard the place had aquariums to dive in, too. Why not give it a shot?

She picked up the phone and dialed a number. After waiting a few moments for it to pick up, she began.

“Hey,” she greeted.

“What’s up?” Yensey Naligova answered on the other end.

“How do you feel about going to Listonia for a little bit? Sort of like a work vacation in that we are in a different location but we’re still tied up in our work?”

He laughed a little. “So not really a vacation then.”

“Maybe not for you.” She smiled a toothy smile, knowing he wouldn’t be able to see her joy. “But it’s in that new casino Listonia built. I want to take you. You’ll have to get to know more people. And Stapen. He’ll be there, too.”

“I guess I’ll do my best, then,” he replied. “You sure I’m cut out for this?”

“Yensey, I want you to come to this. I want to bring you along because if all I do is work and all you do is work then what time do we have for each other? Plus I’m not embarrassed by you. You don’t make me uncomfortable and I’m pretty sure no one else is. If they are, I may just have to kill them.”

“Scandalous!”

“Kidding. But yeah. Maybe see if you can go out a bit. You know? It might be fun.”

“Eh, sure, you’re more fun than chemistry anyway.”

“Alright. I’ll draft up plans and run them by you. See you tonight.”

“You too.”

— Begin quote from ____


Ikrisia Levinile
Premier of Vekaiyu

Stapen Evesuni,

I will certainly attend your regalia. I plan on bringing Yensey as my guest. And off the record, but please be nice to him. He really wants to get to know you and I enjoy his company. I would really appreciate it if you stopped busting his chops, so to speak. He is really a great individual, and I feel that if you gave him a chance, you would see that.

At any rate, we will arrive a bit early. I am told this casino has a large aquarium one can dive in, is that correct? The pictures are certainly intriguing, and I would like to give that a try if it is not too much trouble.

All the best,
Ikrisia Levinile
Premier of Vekaiyu

— End quote

7

Justinian was sitting in his office when Constantine Palmaras, Kaeliv’s Imperator, and Asklepios Castellanos, Kaeliv’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, walked in.

“What is it?” Justinian asked as he looked up at them.

Asklepios spoke first, “I’ve received a message containing an invitation to a regalia in a casino in Listonia.”

“Intriguing,” Justinian said, “I think I’ll attend. When does it take place?”

“Two days from now,” Constantine replied.

Justinian nodded, “If both of you want to come as well you may. I suggest you bring a small, but large enough amount of cash and maybe some family too. Now, is this all?”

“Yes Sir,” both of the men replied.

“Excellent. I want you to message them saying that we will attend.”

Both men nodded and left the room.

8

In a black vehicle driving in Volgoda, Kostromastan

Nicholas, now a 77 year-old man, looked out the window of his vehicle, and recounted the last week in his head; It had been rather busy, with many meetings and luncheons that he simply must attend. He sighed, and looked forward, towards the windshield.

“Theodore, what has happened recently?” Theodore, of course was his chauffeur, who turned his head to the right slightly.

“Mmm, nothing you’d be particularly interested in, sir. Although, you received an invitation in the mail about a regalia being hosted in Listonia’s newly-built casino.”

“A casino, you say? My, it has been a while since I attended a regalia. I do believe the last one was the crowning of Queen Xenia down in Imperial Fandom!”

The vehicle pulled up to the front door, passing the family garden.

“I shall have to bring this up with Vera when she returns from her outings.”

A few hours passed, and the doors of the mansion opened to reveal a woman of a respectable 72 years.

“Madam Vera, your husband would wish to speak to you, if you’ll follow me.”

“Why, I must have been at that brunch for too long! Oh, he’s furious at me, isn’t he?”

“Oh, no, madam! He simply wishes to discuss something with you.”

“In that case, take me to him. I’m quite intrigued!”

Theodore escorted Vera up to the third library, where Nicholas had got himself stuck in a good book. The moment the library door opened, Nicholas looked up.

“Darling, welcome home! Now, before you say anything, when was the last time you went to a regalia?”

Vera’s mind began racing. “A regalia? Why, the last time must’ve been the crowning of Queen Xenia!”

“Well, we have just been invited to another, this time in Listonia’s new casino!”

At this, Vera lost a bit of her excitement. “A casino, you say?”

“Now, I know it sounds rather… shall we say unsightly, but from what I’ve learned from Theodore, it sounds like this event might be quite elegant. What say you, dear?”

‘It has been a while since we did anything spontaneous…’ “Oh, why not! Let’s attend it! When does it take place?”

Theodore stepped in the room, and responded with, “In a week’s time, madam.”

“Oh, plenty of time to prepare then!”

9

“Does this look good, babe?”

“Y-yea. Hurry up and send it, Ni-ni, we don’t wanna be bumped out if they run out of seats or somethin’.”

“It’s an event for international leaders, I don’t think they bump people out.”

“You never knooowww…”

Nimona sighed and tapped send. She laid her phone on the bedside table and swung herself fully out of bed for the day.

— Begin quote from ____


Premier Evesuni,

My wife and I would be delighted to attend.
We will be arriving as only the two of us, so as not to impose too great of a security burden on the good Listonian people.
I thank you in advance for your hospitality, and am looking forward to the event.

Nimona Poole
President
Emberwood Coast

— End quote

10

5 Days since the invitation was sent

Vera looked over the invitation letter, and looked towards Nicholas. “Darling, it appears that in order to be accepted to this regalia, we are required to pen an acceptance letter. Shall we have Theodore write it up?”

Nicholas, still reading that enthralling book, looked towards Vera. A sudden rush of emotion hit him, with sudden flashes of his past. Nicholas realized he had little time left to experience this Urth. He duly replied with, “To be completely blunt with you, dearest, I haven’t written a letter in quite some time! I’d like to write the letter personally.”

Inspired slightly, Nicholas walked to his study, and began writing the letter. He missed the feeling of holding a pen, using it to capture the imaginations of people everywhere. Writing this letter was a small event, but the thoughts it provoked stuck with him.

[spoiler]http://i.imgur.com/rZDsfH4.gif
Official Crest of the Noskov Family
Premier,

I, Nicholas Noskov, and my wife Vera Noskov, would be honored to attend your fine regalia.
If it is not too much trouble, we shall arrive to the casino via our private jet.

Thank you for your time,
Nicholas Noskov
[/spoiler][edit_reason]Made it less boring (unless it’s still boring)[/edit_reason]

11

One day before the Regalia

“I assume you sent the letter already, Asklepios?” Justinian spoke as he entered the room.

Asklepios looked up, “Of course, Sir. I sent it yesterday. Would you like to see it?”

Justinian nodded, “Of course.”

Asklepios opened up the message and turned the computer around.

[spoiler]To:
Stapen Evesuni
Premier
Listonia

Greetings,

I, Asklepios Castellanos, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Kaeliv, Justinian Kalivas, Imperial Exarch of Kaeliv, and Constantine Palmaras, Imperator of Kaeliv, will attend your fine regalia. We will arrive by plane. As a side note, we three might take some of our families.

From:
Asklepios Castellanos
Minister of Foreign Affairs
Kaeliv[/spoiler]

Justinian nodded, “Good. Anyway, I’ll be going now. Make sure you’re ready for tomorrow.”

Asklepios nodded, “Of course.”

With that, Justinian left the room.

12

By now arrangements had been made to ensure all would arrive at the proper time and place in downtown Ye’leli. They were lead through a VIP entrance, which took them to a mirrored room complete with automatic doors that opened, revealing a bellman who would take their coats and provide any answers to questions the guests had, answering in impeccable Codexian.

Once they rode the elevator up to the private eleventh floor, they were greeted with an expansive room with walls backdropped with an enclosed aquarium, equipped with various saltwater seal life - from harmless sharks and even some mammals to spectacular coral reefs and breathtaking seascapes. Yes, the southern variant vulpines loved their water and Listonia seemed to have answered that with amazing cantor. The waters were almost irresistible to a vulpine, who sought beauty in such things, but nature seemed to cater to the expensive palette of unheard-of Listonian decadence. The walls flowed - there didn’t appear to be a single corner in the entire room. And in the center of the room hung the Listonian flag, prominently displayed even with the lights colored blue and green to simulate an aquatic environment shined below. Of course, despite the lighting, the room was aptly-lit and white lights speckled in the decadence shined upon the guests below in order to not make the colors unsettling.

Below the lighting fixtures were gambling tables, bars, and tables with a sampling of Listonian food (typically spicy but not in terms of heat - almost overpowering whatever dish they occupied in traditional fashion to the vulpine palette). A stage was at the far end of the room, lined on either side of vulpine mermaid statues constructed from marble collected from Southern Dveria.

Groups began to file in as Evesuni’s posse, led by Yuko Uyastromistre and completed with names like Yamano Subrirari and Daszo Strovuyistre, all heroes in their own right among the Listonian faithful with their dead-common Listonian names, introduced the master of ceremonies, Tomasu Aglestroviniyey, the squeaky-clean executive of Aquatico, as he stepped up to the stage.

“Good evening, friends,” he said in Codexian. “It warms my heart to see a collection of astute individuals gathered before me. Of course, each compliment will be tacked on the bill later,” he added as those in the audience laughed. “Welcome to the first annual regalia at Aquatico, the first casino operating in the unbreakable Vekaiyun Union. We do hope you enjoy your stay. Such an endeavor of course would not be capable without the guidance of Premier Ikrisia Levinile, but also through the undying efforts of Stapen Evesuni.” He smiled as the Listonian walked forward. He had an interesting gait as he was learning to walk normally without the aide of a cane, as wounds from the past became increasingly painful. The Listonian state simply didn’t want to believe his age, accelerated from years of fighting and peril, so he tried anything he could to prolong the inevitable. “Don’t worry, Evesuni,” Tomasu said amidst the applause, “we’ll carry on.”

Evesuni’s group applauded as Stapen walked up to podium on Tomasu’s left, his stage right. “Kivo Evesuni, do we have your permission to begin this regalia?”

Stapen looked out at the crowd. As he scanned the group, he honed in on his daughter, Ikrisia, who held the hand of Yensey Naligova, her invite to this regalia. His expression melted from cautious optimism to that of concern, but he was quick to regain his composure and even quicker with his words, opting for Codexian, which he only reserved for those whom he respected. “Sank yoofar cahmink tooahr mahst ahnairable evenink. Ahm open th’vent.” He watched as Ikrisia’s eyes widened, perhaps because she had never heard him speak the language he hated so much. Yet the older he grew, the more he realized that, in his opinion, language barriers was a way of corralling power. Those who couldn’t understand language were more likely to be ruled by someone who could hide their words. But that was then - and while in his past Codexian meant power, now he was here and the Codexian speakers were over there. It wasn’t satisfying; rather, it was humbling.

He forced a smile after he walked down from the stage and joined the congregation on the floor, moving toward the alcohol. It was time to show face… After all, he wasn’t getting any younger, and it might not be a bad idea to show everyone that he, a once-labeled terrorist, crime integrator, and killer among other nomenclatures would show that the Listonian ideal was greater than that.

13

Nico Chronapoulos arrived in a sleek limousine, trying to show off as much attention to himself while being anonymous at the same time.

He listened to Evesuni talk, and struggle to speak Codexian. “Sank yoofar cahmink tooahr mahst ahnairable evenink. Ahm open th’vent.”

He rolled his eyes. Just another foreigner butchering the noble language.

He was just in for the money. He had been chased out of Atlae for casino fraud. But here, you could gamble, possibly steal, and maybe get the girls!

14

Nimona and Coraline applauded Evesuni’s opening. While the president knew basic Unionian, it was nice not to have to take a minute to interpret a sentence. Her wife just appreciated the effort of mastering a foreign language. As he dismounted the stage, the two waited by an ornate marble carving to thank their host.

15

“What did you two think of the ceremony?” Justinian asked as it ended.

“I think it was alright,” Asklepios answered, “Now, if you don’t mind, I’m going to get some alcohol.”

“Alright. Just remember not to drink too much, Asklepios.” Justinian replied.

“I know, I know.” Asklepios said as he walked off.

“Anyway Sir,” Constantine spoke up, “I’m going to see if I can get lucky with my money tonight.”

Justinian nodded, “You know not to spend too much.”

“Of course Sir,” Constantine walked away.

As Constantine disappeared from his sight, Justinian sighed and went to view the room’s various decorations.

16

Once Evesuni escaped the podium, he was immediately flanked by his interpreter, Kesia Ayestrovuyey. She was everything he wasn’t, and he was everything she wasn’t. Kesia was meek and wore large circular glasses with thin rims that she constantly pushed up closer to her face. There was nothing too special about her looks - she was quite average for a female vulpine, and even had average red fur with white accents and an average Listonian bob for a haircut. She was rather meek and certainly no match for the larger-than-life individual she was charged with interpreting his every word. But she knew her place. Evesuni wasn’t a man who was very eloquent in his speech. She tried once to make him appear more intelligent with his words. Once. For he knew basic Codexian well enough where he could catch her in a stretch. It was scary, but he either wasn’t paying attention or didn’t care. She could not lose his trust in her. After all, this was now the third interpreter - the first was lost during the war for independence, and the second… no one quite knew what happened to him. But she was recommended by Levinile herself, who was rumored to think that her meekness would help temper his rough edges. It wasn’t enough all of the time, of course. Sometimes he lashed out. She bit her lip when he did this, for she had been with him long enough to know that he could barely read, that he couldn’t really speak Codexian, and that anyone who looked down on him for those things really struck deep inside him. For some reason. She didn’t quite know why. After all, he was a liberator and had everything he could need - why would something like a language barrier bother him?

Yuko helped steady his walk as the Listonian Premier walked over to greet members who attended the regalia. He offered a smile, though it was difficult to see if it was genuine or not, and a handshake to those from Emberwood Coast. He began talking in Unonian, which caused Kesia to force her way forward.

“Welcome to our nation,” she said, keeping an opened ear pointed to him. “And welcome to our regalia. We hope you enjoy your stay. And… your names are…?” she looked up at them.

17

“Nicholas. Nicholas Noskov.” Nicholas bowed, and upon straightening back to proper posture, gestured to his wife, “…and this is Vera Noskov, my lovely wife. It is a pleasure to be in your company, Premier.”

18

March 9th, 2017

“Dear, do send that e-mail. The regalia is coming up soon” Lieutenant General Marlene Verlhan sighed and sat down beside her husband, taking off her white gloves.

“I already sent it and I packed our bags. Is Velhanz coming?”

“Dear god what are you thinking? The Regalia is being hosted at a casino, Velhanz is still only 18. Dummkopf.”

“He’s becoming a man, Mars, he should experience something else than just regiment and military discipline” Marlene sighed and beckoned for William to show her the e-mail, which he did.

[spoiler]
To:
Stapen Evesui
Premier of Listonia

Good day, Premier. I am the President of the Republic of Setzna, William Verlhan. A Setznan delegacy will be attending your Regalia. The members of the delegacy are Bret Karlson, Director of Foreign Affairs, Marlene Verlhan, the First Lady, and Velhaus Kranz, Secretary of Defense. My eldest son, Midshipman Velhanz Verlhan and the rest of my children will also be coming to attend.

I hope that the regalia goes well and that we will be able to learn more about your country.

Sincerely,
William Verlhan
President, The Republic of Setzna. [/spoiler]

“So Velhanz IS attending?” said Marlene is disbelief.

“Why are you so worried? The rest of the family is attending, why can’t he? Velhanz knows what to do and what not to do. He’ll have a hard time mustering the courage to go gambling anyways,” William paused before continuing, “Too many important people” The First Lady reluctantly agreed with William and leaned on his shoulder. At that moment, Velhanz and his little sister came in through the door.

“We’re home…” They both said warily, Velhanz’s midshipman overcoat half drenched in rain due to lending his umbrella to Ayase so she wouldn’t get wet. Velhanz hanged his coat and officer’s cap up to dry on a clothes hook and went over to embrace his mother and father.

“Velhanz! Ayase! Welcome back, do you have your luggage?” William asked. Velhanz nodded and pointed over to the two suitcases resting near the door.

“I’m going to go get changed” Velhanz went upstairs to his room while Ayase stayed down in the living room to chat. For once, i’m not at Shiro… Velhanz flopped onto his bed and smiled. It’s good to be home, even it’s for the shortest period of time…

[hr]

March 10th, 2017

William Verlhan applauded with the rest of his group after the Premier finished his speech. As usual when around high ranking government officials from foreign countries, Velhanz tilted his cap so that the visor would emit a shadow over his face. He became unusually shy and tried to avoid talking to other people while his father, mother, and the Director of Foreign Affairs socialized easily. Velhaus was sitting at a table with the younger of the Verlhan siblings while Ayase stood beside her brother.

“Vel-nii, are you going to be alright here?” Velhanz nodded subtly and suddenly, the two of them got dragged along with their mother and father to meet the Premier and join up with the Emberitians. Velhanz adjusted the straps on his saber and followed after his group.

“Madam President! It is nice to see you here, are you also waiting for the Premier?” William greeted Nimona while Marlene greeted Caroline. Velhanz nodded and stood slightly behind his father, who was now conversing with his Emberitian counterpart as they waited for Evesui.

19

“Gosh, that was painful,” Enlil, the outfit leader of the criminal organization Lont, said to his cohort.

Yensey Layastrovyey, the family leader of Sipani, shrugged. “He was never one to make a strong impression. You know? He likes being around other Listonians, you know? Never really was one to branch out as far as I know.”

“Plus he looks old.”

“Eh, we look old,” Yensey continued. “Suppose… you know, suppose he’s old enough…”

“Skip it. Let him enjoy the moment for now.” He gave a nod at the armed Listonian military soldier who stood next to the door. Time and time again the Listonians used their own military for security to the point where nowadays it was almost expected. But this time was a little different. He was here solely to keep the peace and ensure nothing out of the ordinary occurred. Soldiers stood watch while members of the Listonian government with crime heads peppered about kept watch and decided to try their own luck out, but only for a little while. It wasn’t that they needed to make sure the machines worked properly; on the contrary, they and the tables were designed in such a way that eventually the house would win. And those running the tables to those running the pits and the floors were among the very best, those who had worked their way up in crime from a young age and knew every trick in the book. Of course, because of that, there would be some of the cash skimmed off. It was an inevitability with hiring cheats - they’ll cheat you a little, too. But for everyone, from the guys running the backrooms all the way up to Tomaso, it was worth it.

Ikrisia smiled as she watched Stapen mingle with individuals at the regalia. He was difficult to read, but while she knew it wasn’t something he preferred, perhaps this once he’d actually enjoy himself, when he wasn’t drowning in alcohol to replace the cigarettes he once enjoyed. Regardless, it was time to see if he would be willing to give Yensey Naligova a second chance. After all, she was looking forward to the aquarium tank. Perhaps putting him alone with her father would be the perfect remedy to their inability to get along. So she led her and her guest to the crowd and mingle.

20

As Justinian was looking at the decorations, he noticed a gathering of people out of the corner of his eye. He moved his gaze towards them and saw the leaders of Setzna, Emberwood Coast, some people he didn’t recognize, and Evesuni. “Quite a gathering,” he muttered to himself. “I should go get Asklepios and Constantine.” After finding Asklepios and Constantine, he walked towards the gathering, glad that they were still there. “Greetings Madam President Poole,” he said as he nodded towards Nimona. “President Verlhan,” he said, nodding towards William. "I am Justinian Kalivas, Imperial Exarch of Kaeliv. My two companions are Constantine Palmaras, Imperator of Kaeliv, and Asklepios Castellanos, Minister of Foreign Affairs.[edit_reason]phrasing[/edit_reason]