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__________ finally had a chance to check her mail. Early this morning, Francis kidnapped collected her for the task of helping him go grocery shopping. Francis never shopped on his own, unless he was doing the cooking and even then, he paid someone.

“The fucking place I usually order from as been bought out for a private event so I’m bringing you,” it was his own way of say: ‘I want to spend time with someone today’. A red and black letter arrived in the mail that morning addressed to her and Matthew. She thought it looked important and took t along with her. She curiously looked at it before opening. Inside was an invitation.

You have been cordially invited to the tenth annual Vargas Charity Gala. The ticket in enclosed is for Elite guests only. Only those with this ticket are permitted into the Garden Ballroom. This year’s theme is red and black only, please dress accordingly. Ciao!

Her eyes widened. This was the most exclusive event in the county. Only important people, honored guests, and wealthy stiffs are invited. Some people bought their way in but not even they got the Garden Room of the Vargas Villa. She squeals happily.

“What are you so happy about?” she stopped. She forgot Francis was there. He was sitting in the living room, doing what he did best, festering.

“We’re invited to the Vargas Charity Gala!” she said bouncing excitedly. Francis looked up.

“You and Matthew?”

“Yes, it has his name on it,” Francis got up and grabbed it. There in fancy print was Mr. Matthew Williams and Miss _______ ________.

“Fuck…”

“What’s the matter?”

“Nothing, just forget it,” he said.

“I’m so excited! I never been to a charity ball before!”

“More like shake down,” said Francis glaring, “It’s basically a charity ball for those who are pillars of the community,”

“You’re a pillar of the community?” he looked at her before messing up her hair.

“Support a business and now you’re automatically a donor for life,”

“What business do you support?”

“The brothel and Arthur’s Bakery,”

“That’s so sweet!”

“Well Artie’s Bakery is his livelihood and since I live here and he’s basically my fuckin’ wife I support him as much as I can,”

“A wife? Really?”

“Worst than a fuckin’ wife! At least with a woman she’ll shut up eventually but Artie just fuckin’ keeps going,”

“Francis!” as if on cue, Artie walked into the room, “How many times do I have to tell you to not put your cigarette butts into the potted plants! It’ll mess with her roots and it’ll make her limp and dying! Also, please try not leaving your clothes all over the house! And they’re starting to take on your natural smell of alcohol and tobacco!” Francis said nothing but just let the colorful man finish his ranting and raving about his filthy habits, “Do you have ANYTHING to say for yourself?”

“I’m making dinner tonight, want anything special?” Artie stopped and thought for a few moments.

“That delicious veal?”

“Done. By the way, we got our Gala invitations,” this time Artie squealed. Francis covered his ears.

“I simply love the gala!” he looked over the invitation. He grabbed them both and took them upstairs where he searched through the closet for something. “He said red and black only right?”

“Right…”

“I think I have a red suit somewhere,”

“Why don’t you just wear black like a NORMAL human being?” said Francis.

“Black is so depressing,” ___________ looked at her invitation once more. He squealed and took out a couple of reddish suits, “I wish it was would blue, blue is better, or pink!”

“Well, pink is a just a very light red,” Artie perks up.

“You’re right!”

“Don’t encourage him, petite! You know two know damn well that pink doesn’t count,” Artie pouted.

“You’re such a party pooper Francis,” Downstairs, Artie started ironing his red suit, though ________ didn’t see any winkles or creases, Artie INSISTED they were there. Francis was in his chair smoking near the window.

“I still don’t see how I got an invitation,” she said.

“You’re Artie’s assistant, my Rep, and personal accountant for some of the riches clientele in the world. Yours was set in stone,”

“Matthew is ever invited?”

“Not really, his invites stopped when he moved out. Even before that he usually tosses it and does something else. It’s mandatory this year since you’re a part of shit now,” she smiled to herself at the thought they really saw her apart of thing more.

“So how is the Gala like?”

“Fuckin’ boring,” Artie and _______ jumped. How Alfred managed to sneak into the house and get into the kitchen without anyone noticing was anyone’s guess. He was munching on a sandwich.

“Why the holy fuck, do you come back here!” growled Francis, “You have a fuckin’ home so get lost,”

“Hey! I just came in to visit and there’s not shit you can do!” Francis went to get up. ________ immediately tried to defuse the situation.

“So…it’s really that boring?”

“To be honest, you can cut the fucking tension in the room,” said Alfred, “Imagine being in a room where everyone wants to kill, maim, or torture you,”

“Basically how he feels every day,”

“Francis be nice,” said Artie

“It’s true, no one likes him,”

“Did you get invited Al?”

“Of course I did,” he grinned. Artie squealed.

“Will you take that special someone?!”

“There is no special someone!” he said reddening, “Just me and myself,”

“Well I guess the whole fuckin’ family going,” Alfred looked at Francis, “Yeah, Matthew’s going this year,”

“Fuck…” he glanced over at _________, “I guess I get to finally get my ass kicked at this now,” she looked at the pair. They were all acting really strange, stranger than usual. Before long, it was time for her to leave.

“I’ll take you home,” said Artie grinning at her, “We can talk about makeup! Now I think you’ll look stunning in black liner!” Francis and Alfred waited until she was in the car before talking.

“Does she know?” said Alfred.

“Seriously doubt it,” said Francis, “She was there when he was in the hospital but I doubt that she knows how her injury happened,”

“She was the one that stitched him up, remember?”

“I know but she didn’t know the extent of his injuries,”

“Do you think he’ll go?”

“Don’t know but don’t you fuckin’ say anything about it to her. We’ll just have to keep an eye on her when we’re there,”

***
Matthew was lounging on the couch when _________ walked in. She grinned when she saw him and excitedly told him the news. He sighed.

“Excited about something boring,” he said.

“I’ve never been! I can’t wait to go!” he stiffened.

“You want to go?”

“Yes, your name is on it too!” Matthew snatched the invitation from her and read it. The color drained from his face, “Matt? What’s the matter?”

“I don’t have anything to fuckin’ wear,”

“Is that all?” she kissed his cheek, “You have a suit remember?” he nodded, “Speaking of, let me see if I can find something,”

Matthew watches her looking for something to wear in her closet. He didn’t really want to go. He felt really uneasy about this. This would be the first year he would be back at that place; He tried not to think about it. He didn’t want __________ to worry. As far as she knew, it was just Gala. They’ll go, stay there for a few moments to show that they were there and leave. He touched his scar on his stomach, which still bothered him from time to time.

“Mattie?” he looked up. She was wearing a black dress with ruffles and lace and sequence that was skin tight, short, and made her look cheap. He knew her mom bought her this most likely.

“Burn that and I think you’d look great in a red and black dress. Go buy whichever you want, my treat,”

“Really?”

“Do I have to go?”

“No, I’ll ask Elizabeta or Amelia if one of them wants to go,”

“That’s thanks enough,”

“What are you wearing? I can find something nice!”

“No, no, I have that under control,” she smiled and pecks his cheek. He ruffled her hair and watches her put everything back into the closet. He waited until she left. It had to be a fuckin’ typo. He reread it over and over and there were their names, separately etched in gold inlay. He rubbed his temples. If Francis goes then he knew he had to go. He knew __________ didn’t know what happened to his stomach that night. As far as she knew it was an accident and nothing more. Then again, he would never forgive himself if something happened to her. Then again, no one knew of their relationship outside of family and associates but still, that didn’t ease his worry at all. Now for the next few days he was going to have to focus on other things and pray that she doesn’t end up in the crossfire for any reason. He didn’t even hear her when she came in again holding a bag. He hated shopping. He was also glad that she didn’t love it, just like it. She trots upstairs. He followed her. She always looked so fuckin’ cute.

“Don’t come in yet, I’m not ready,” she said smiling. He humored her and lingered in the hall.

“Now can I come in?”

“Yes! How do I look?” Matthew reddens. She was in a knee high black dress with ¾ sleeves. The top part was black and it flowed into the redness at the waist. The red of dress was decorated with black roses. He brought out her (e/c) eyes and her figure nicely.

“Turn around,” she turns, “Bend over,” she bends over.

“What’s the matter?”

“Just taking it all in,” she giggled and pecks his cheek.

“Thanks for going with me,” he pulled her into a hug and whispered in her ear, “To the Gala I mean,”

“You know I’ll do anything for you,” she reddens and then smiles. He lingered for a few more moments, as though if he let go, she’ll slip away from him forever. He didn’t want that to ever happen. Ever.

***
The Family arrived at the Gala together. Francis and Matthew was in a black suit and a red dress shirt. Francis’ scruffy appearance added some sort of mystic handsomeness aura about him. Matthew looked coolness gave the appearance of “I don’t want to be here”. Artie was dressed in a dark red suit with a blue dress black dress shirt. He was going to wear a hat but Alfred said it made him look like a gay pimp. Alfred was in a black suit. His buttons were closed, showing the red shirt under it. ______ stared, it gave him a sophisticated bad boy look. Artie took her hand and they happily trotted towards the entrance. Alfred followed after them. Matthew found himself lingering back. His stomach hurt him a bit. Francis looked at him.

“Get through it, you’ll be fine,”

“I know. I don’t give a fuck about myself this time but if he knows about her,”

“He knows of her but he doesn’t know that she’s your wife. Keep your distance,” they walked inside without another word. The Saloon Room or the “Peon” Room was where all of the local small businesses and guests resided. It was gorgeous with white marble flooring, floral décor, and just an air of elegance. The people were laughing and talking and smiling.

“I can’t believe fuckers would buy their way into shit,” said Francis.

“They seriously do that?”

“You have no fuckin’ clue, it’s embarrassing, wait until they see what in the upper floor, they’ll probably sell their homes to get up here,” Inside the Garden Room, it made the Saloon Room like a back alley in a bad neighborhood. Inside were all of the most important and influential people around. It was on the middle floor of the grand villa. The floors were black Italian marble, there were walls were a gorgeous beige fabric with a print of small white roses and above were large, beautiful chandeliers. It was a breathtaking

“Wow…”

“I’ve seen better,” said Francis.

“Don’t be rude,” said Artie smiling.

“It’s true,”

“Betcha want to live in a place like this,” said Alfred smirking. Matthew glared at him.

“No, I’m happy where I am. Warm, cozy, and quiet,” Francis spotted and walked over to Antonio and Yao. Matthew saw Maximo and walked over to him. Artie saw the dessert cart and trotted towards it. He was catering some of the treats tonight, knowing him, he just wanted to give them the fifth look over to make sure they were all perfect. Alfred was alone with _________.

“Don’t worry babe, Al is here to keep you safe,”

“I’d rather take my chances with the Cupcake King,”

“You said you’d never mention that again!”

“All hail the Cupcake King!” she laughed, “So what do people do at these things?”

“Linger, eat, dance, and catch up really. I’m with you because I haven’t seen Toris, Eduard, or Ravis yet,”

“Gee, that’s nice of you. Who are they?”

“Ivan’s associates, they’re an alright bunch, fuckin’ brutal but alright,”

“And of course you hang around them,”

“What? They’re awesome to be around. They know how to really have a good time,”

“Ew, amica, don’t stay around for too long, you’ll catch something,” ________ turns. A cute Italian woman was grinning at her.

“Feli!” they hugged. Alfred glared.

“At least I got a man!” he snapped his finger and went away.

“What are you doing here?”

“My Nonno’s running it. I get invited every year because I’m his favorite,” she laughed.

“And you didn’t ask if I wanted to do?”

“Because it’s BORING when you’re a teenager. A bunch of people being all stuffy about stupid shit and then I become Nonno’s gopher to be kept out of the way,”

“Wow, this is your grandpa’s place?”

“Yep, well more his and my brothers’ places,”

“You know, I never met your brothers,”

“They’re around lemme me see if I can find one for you,” she ran off. She was about to look for Matthew when Artie then took her hand and led her towards the dessert cart. He passed her a chocolate fudge brownie with a thick layer of ganache on it. Her mouth watered as she bit into it.

“Artie, this is one of your best creations yet,”

“I’m so glad you like them!” he said smiling, “And you’re immune now,” she swallowed the piece in her mouth.

“Artie are these poisoned?!” she said in a harsh whisper.

“Some not all,” he said looking at them with pink swirled eyes, “I don’t like seeing any of my children in pain, I just hope these do the trick,” he smiled over and her before going off to see Ivan. She stared at the couple. Ivan was so tall, broody, sullen, and scary whereas Artie was shorter, cheery, and perky. Artie gave him hug, Ivan had to stoop a bit to return it and the pair finally went off to chat. She noticed that Matthew disappeared and looked to see if there was anyone she recognized. So far there were only the gangsters she remembered from the meeting. Even Feliciana disappeared. She then found a familiar face, Monika was here. She immediately walked towards her direction. However, half through her mission, she was grabbed and pulled in a secluded part of the Gala. The person in question looked very familiar then she saw a hair curl. She pulled back but his grip was firm. He took her behind a huge potted plant in the corner.

“Feliciano…Wh-What are you doing here?” she said, finally finding her voice.

“Why shouldn’t I be here? This is my villa after all,” she glared and kept her smile. She turned to walk away.

“It was nice seeing you again, but I really must be going,”

“What’s the rush, gattina?” He shoved her hard against the wall, “A beautiful woman shouldn’t come into a den of wolves without a proper escort,”

“I’ll be fine as long as you stay far, far away from me as possible,” she said glaring at him.

“You’re so beautiful when you’re angry,” he cupped her face in his hands and forced her to look into his eyes, “So determined, I’ve always loved (e/c) eyes, gattina, but I’m curious to wonder…” he pulled her closer, “How your lips taste,” she immediately and without warning, shoved him away into the potted plant and ran off. Her face was flushed and she immediately grabbed a glass of champagne. Feliciano watched her scamper away and climbed out of the plant. He smirked. He loved how she played hard to get. Kuro looked on as well.

“She’ll look gorgeous wearing nothing but a short sailor fuku or a French maid uniform,”

“Hmmm think you can get her in my chamber in fifteen minutes?”

“I can,”

“Make sure it happens,”

***
“Monika?”

“_______!” the robust girl grabbed her and started ruffling her hair. She was dressed in leather pants and a red denim jacket, “What are you doing here?”

“Invited! I’m so excited,” she said smiling.

“Where’s Mattie? Hunting or something?”

“No he’s here too,” Monika stared at her as though she grew two heads.

“What’s the matter?”

“Are you fuckin’ sure Matthew is HERE?”

“Yes but I can’t find him,” Monika looked very uneasy as she looked around, “Monika, what’s the matter?” she stares at her.

“You don’t know?” she shook her head. Monika sighs, “Right, of course. Listen just find Matt and get out of here for awhile. Seriously, it’s for your best interest. Seriously, get out of here,” Monika walked away looking for Matthew all the while muttering under her breath, “Fuck Matt, you barely got out of here alive the first time…”

***
Francis joined Yao, Antonio, and Heracles outside. It was the place where Francis and Yao could smoke without being offensive. However, it was only them outside. Many people referred to the room as the “Old Man” area because it was usually where the older, mature men stayed. Because the smoking was so bad, the area was closed off. It gave the men freedom to talk without anyone listening.

“I really try to stay neutral of your shit,” said Antonio, “Though I can see why Roma decided to make it red and black,”

“To hide the blood stains, aru,” said Yao downing more Mao-tai, “There’s going to be a fucking bloodbath tonight, aru,”

“Between all of us and them, let’s fuckin’ hope there’s survivors,”

“Why the fuck did you let Matthew come?” said Heracles. He was a calm, confident man with green eyes, light brown hair and a double hair curl on his head. He was a dressed in a black suit with a red tie, “Especially what fuckin’ happened last time,”

“He insisted, I can’t make him not do anything,”

“You know the fuckin’ reason why,”

“And he still has that scar to prove it,” said Francis, “My son isn’t fuckin’ weak, if he’s going to finish what he started, then he’s going to do it,”

“But…________ isn’t here, is she, aru?” Francis said nothing but took a long drag from his cigarette.

“She can get killed you know,” said Antonio, “She’s a hindrance to him. If she’s around, he’s not going to put his soul into it in order to keep her safe,”

“Don’t you think I don’t know that? When the shit hits the fan, everyone in this room is going to go into survival mode. It’ll be like old times. Everyone in here hates someone else for different reasons. Rome knows this more than anyone but they can act but until then, I know she can handle herself until she get out of the way,”

“And Artie?”

“I really don’t want him here either. He doesn’t need to know about this shit,” Yao and Heracles looked over at the odd man in the room with Ivan, “But I’d rather not get on his bad side. He doesn’t know what happened with Matthew and intend to keep it that way,”

“You have to admit,” Heracles looked at the sky. It was a very calm, still night, the stars will visible despite a large, bright full moon, “that bastard Roma knows how to pick a night for a bloodbath,”

***
Ivan and Artie spent most of the evening talking in deep conversation. The pair has been friends for a long time. Ivan knew the quirky little man better than he knew himself sometimes. Although, many hadn’t noticed, Artie was in fact ready for blood too. Francis tried keeping Artie from knowing some of his activities but he couldn’t keep this one a secret. Artie remember that night so well. Francis stumbled in that evening covered in blood with Alfred holding him up looking just as bad. Francis’ eye was swollen shut, and he looked like he was about to collapse any second. He knew about the territorial wars and helped in his own way, but seeing Francis like that stirred something in him. Then he saw Alfred, banged up with defense wounds but otherwise fine. He used a blade to cut Francis’ eye open. He breathing was labored and he could barely speak. When he saw them, the first thing he was asked was where was Mattie. Alfred mumbled.

“I don’t know,” Artie remembered looking for him, he remembered the phone call, he remembered seeing Matthew in the hospital with a bloody wound on his stomach. According to the doctor, he wouldn’t have survived the night if it wasn’t for a teenage girl with (h/c) and (e/c) who stitched him up because of the jagged wound on his chest. He insisted he was fine but his wounds said otherwise. Artie didn’t want to see anyone he cared about like that, ever again. Francis and Matthew were both in there for weeks, treating various wounds. Artie and Alfred never really left their sides. __________ was also frequent visitor.

“Hard feelings, da,” said Ivan looking at the guests.

“I can’t forgive what Roma did to Francis and Mattie. I still haven’t given him proper payback for his attacks on Mumsy,”

“Britannia almost castrated him if you recall,”

“Still, I don’t think I can forgive anyone who harms my family,”

“Take care of it, da,”

***
“Chocolate Truffle?” ________ jumps. A waiter holds out a small plate with a few pieces of chocolate in front of her. She nods and takes it. She hadn’t had truffles in awhile. She ate the first piece. She had to admit, it didn’t taste half bad. She walked to a place to sit. She pops the second one into her mouth. By the third, she felt really, strange. She tried to shake it off but she still weird. She dropped the plate. She immediately tried to find a bathroom or something. She staggered down the halls. She felt her body getting heavy. She held onto a wall to keep balance. Her vision was getting blurry and she couldn’t will herself to speak. The only thing her mind was shouting was getting someplace safe. She looked up again. She saw Feliciano’s silhouette. She moved back but it was too much for her faltering body and she collapsed. He strode over to her limp unconscious body and scooped her up.

“Don’t worry dear, gattina…you won’t have to worry about anything anymore…” ________ woke up in a daze. She sat up, only to fall back as she held her head. It was pounding. She looked around her surroundings. She knew she was still in the villa but she was surrounded by whips, chains, and paddles on the wall. The window opened to a balcony and that cool air was making her feel a lot better. She tried to leave the bed when she realized her hands were tied tightly firmly in place. She struggled to get out of them. She didn’t even have a knife on her, just her stun gun but that can’t help her now. Then, the door handle jiggled. She froze. The door opened and in stepped Lutz. She remembered him from Alfred’s house party in her house and of course the Francis’ meeting. He was an intimidating man with scruffy blond hair, purple eyes, and deep scar running down his cheek. She stared at him. He said nothing but closed the door and sat on the bed.

“You really are up; most women would be out for hours with a drug like that. Are you okay?”

“I’ll live, but can you please let me go?”

“No can do Liebling. Feli would have my cock if I let you go,”

“What is he planning on doing to me?” Lutz gestured the various bondage and torture instruments on the table. Her face with red.

“And he loves it when he breaks his prey, just so you know. He’ll savor the moment when you completely and utterly submit to him,” Her eyes widened. She tried to get out of the ropes now. She was scared now, no one knew she was there and who know what else Feliciano was into! “Take it easy, you’ll be okay, just calm down,”

“You don’t understand! I’m married and I don’t want this!”

“He really doesn’t give a shit that you, you know,” he said

“I know but it matters to me,”

“A large villa, servants, a horny Italian giving it to you every night is every woman’s dream,”

“I’m fine with my house in the woods with my Canadian husband giving it to me every night,” Lutz’s eyes widen.

“What’s your last name?”

“_________,”

“No, married last name,”

“Williams,”

“You’re Matthew’s wife, right?” she nodded, “Well shit, didn’t know he was…and for your sake I’m not saying anything. Though I have a question, why him?”

“What do you mean? I love him that’s why and never wanted to be with anyone else. Though it’s flattering that Feliciano is trying, I’m not leaving anytime soon,” she looked at Lutz. He seemed as though he was debating something in his head.

“How’s Artie doing?”

“You know Artie?”

“Answer the question, Liebling,”

“He’s fine! He’s expanding his Bakery to vegan and natural treats, thinking of hiring a little delivery girl who always come into the shop, and making clothes again,” Lutz seemed satisfied.

“I’ll let you go granted you tell me one more thing,” she looked up, “Have you Matthew done any Canadian sex positions or those just fucking myths,”

“They’re not….myths,” her face went red, “There’s a lot of them out there, the One Handed Mountie, the Toronto Tumble, the Maple Lumberjack—,”

“So wait, you know the Maple Lumberjack?”

“Yes! Matthew likes that one, mainly because of the maple,”

“Okay, how do you keep your legs up for so long?!”

“Oh that’s easy you have to use a log and rope for that. We tried duct tape once but it was murder trying to get it off,”

“Of course!” Lutz took out a pen and paper, “Now about that Caribou Twist?”

“Oh well, you need a pair of antlers for it,” they pair talked for awhile about different Canadian Sex Positions. Lutz took all of the notes he could.

“Now what about the Québec Baguette,” her face went red, “Come on! Don’t leave me in suspense!”

“Okay, you need toys for this but…” she on and on in detail. Lutz perversions were satisfied. He went over and unlocked her cuffs.

“You, Liebling, have a lucky husband. Shit, maybe there’s an upside to this wife thing. Look, if anyone says anything, you escaped yourself, got it?”

“Got it,” she said smiling and hugged him tightly. He awkwardly pats her back. She ran out of the room and down the halls.

***
Alfred, Toris, and Ravis made small talk in corner. All three had at least had a job together at some point in time. Alfred gulped down more whiskey.

“Think we’ll break a record tonight?” said Toris.

“Probably,” said Alfred wiped his mouth on his sleeve, “Especially if you two fuckers are helping,”

“Please seems like you’re getting soft, Ally,” said Ravis smirking, “Especially around (Al/RC),”

“Who told you?!”

“Who the fuck do you think?” said Toris grinning.

“We’re just friends,” he said glaring at them.

“It’s true, he didn’t fuck her,”

“Alfred Jones didn’t fuck a chick? Must be fuckin’ serious,”

“Fuck off, both of you,” Ravis smirked.

“Tell you what, if you win, I’ll never tease you again, if I win, I may try and steal her from you,” Alfred glared. Two men strode into the room. One was wearing black suit, his hair slicked back, and vibrant green eyes. He had a cocky, confident look on his but his eyes gave way to exactly what he was capable of doing. He was known as a loose cannon and his carnage was destructive but only second or third to anything Alfred could do. The second had an emotionless face. His black hair was spiked; he was wearing a black suit as well with a blood red lapel. His golden eyes were far from warm. His gaze was ice cold, almost daring something to happen. Alfred smirked.

“Just when I thought this party wouldn’t get started,”

“How does it feel to have a room full of people who wants to kill you, Ally?”

“Pretty used to it actually but I’ve been waiting to fight that Bulgarian bastard since our last shit ended in a draw,”

“Still said you won,” said Toris.

“Fuck yeah I did until Kuro and Kasem showed up and ruined everything. Japanese fucker is still on my list. Please tell me that Vladimir is here,”

“Yep, hadn’t seen each other yet. Speaking of old shit; did I fuckin’ see Matt in here?”

“Yeah, he came,” they looked at him, “Look, we all know what happened or heard rumors of what happened. He’s fine now and a hundred percent bad ass,”

“As much as I hate to admit, he’s right,” said Eduard joining them, “Everyone has a grudge against everyone tonight. Francis is against Roma more so than many of us. Feliciano is just as bad and Roma’s successor; you can only imagine how much Matthew wants a piece of Feliciano,”

“Feliciano isn’t going to be noticing Matthew,” said Alfred

“Oh?”

“I gave him the perfect distraction and a guarantee that Mattie would be more vicious this time around,” they looked at him. Alfred gave them a cocky, confident look, “I introduced ________ to Feli and I think he’s in love,”

“Who’s ________?” they said.

“Mattie’s wife. Remember the girl who used to tag along in our shit in school? Her,”

“Are you fuckin’ crazy?!” said Toris, “Matthew will KILL you when he finds out,”

“That’s a dick move but that took balls,” said Ravis, “I commend you,”

“I hope you know what you’re doing,” said Eduard, “If not, someone may end up seriously hurt or dead,”

“You’re a doctor; you can handle that shit, right?” Eduard glares and looked at all of the guests. So far, everyone’s own enemy was here. There was going to be a lot of blood tonight. There just had to be one little spark.

***
Matthew lost sight of _________. He didn’t like this. Francis didn’t like it either as they both started searching around to see if she’ll pop up. So far, she wasn’t there. The tension in the room was bad enough but now that she was gone, it was just a thick layer of dread added. She could be anywhere. He wanted to get out of here soon before all hell broke loose.

“Matthew, are you sure you want to stay?” said Maximo looking at him.

“Fuck off,” he growled, “You know why I’m here, why we’re all fuckin’ here,”

“I’m not fuckin’ stupid but ________ is here. How the fuck are you going to get her out of here?”

“When I find her, I’ll tell you,”

“You better hurry then,” said Monika striding towards him, “I just saw the door close. If she’s not out soon, she could get hurt. This is no place for a woman,”

“Dude, you are a woman,” said Maximo

“Fuck you,” Meanwhile, _________ was trying to get back to the Garden Room and get the hell out of there. She had no idea that the villa was this big and so confusing. She didn’t want to open any random door and find Feliciano or anyone else she didn’t know. She peeked around halls, she stopped when she heard a noise, and had her stun gun just in case. She heard someone coming down the stairs. She quickly hid in the cupboard under it. She kept quiet. There two sets of footsteps, one was very heavy and the other was light.

“Where’s your brother, nipote?” said a deep, Italian voice. She blushed slightly and swallowed a lump in her throat.

“I don’t know, Nonno,” said Lovino’s voice.

“See to it that the exits are sealed,”

“Yes Nonno,”

“And keep your sister away; I don’t want her in the crossfire,”

“Yes Nonno. But…do you think it’s wise to have all of them in the same room, this can end badly,”

“Don’t think Nipote, it’s not good for you, then again you’re not useless like your fratello. I know what I’m doing,”

“Yes Nonno,”

“And I have to admit, this suit you designed is exquisite,”

“Thank you! I know it’s hard for you to cover your bulges and still look classy as ever! But I have been working on tailored trousers that would look lovely on you Nonno!”

“And that’s why you’re my favorite Lovi. Now, stay clear, I’ll see you in the morning,” Then the doorknob turned. She had her gun ready just in case. Before she attacked she saw blonde hair curl.

“________?!” Roma stopped.

“What did you say, Nipote?”

“Umm you know? _________ the name of that really old song? It’s really catchy,” Roma shrugged it off and went away. Lovi made sure he was gone, “Ragazza! What are you doing here?!”

“I-I don’t know but you have to get me back to the gala! Please! Someone is after me!”

“Who?!”

“His name is Feliciano,”

“Fratello?”

“Wh-What?! Fr-Fratello as in brother!”

“Si! Merda, why is he after you? He wants to kill you?!”

“No! He wants to sleep with me!” Lovino looks at her for a few moments. He then sighed and rubbed his temples.

“Of course. You’re the (h/c) headed woman he’s been talking about. I didn’t know it was you. Okay we have to get you out of here now!”

“Lovi, what’s going on? Where’s Matthew?” Lovi looked uneasy. He sighed.

“Look, you did not hear this from me but there’s going to be a lot of violence and a lot of blood and Matthew and Francis are two main targets. Everyone in there is a target but Roma has a very personal grudge against the offspring of elders like him. Artie because of Britannia, Francis because of Gaul, and so on,” the clock struck, it was nine-forty five. Lovi sighs.

“Come on, I’ll sneak you in so we can get you out the balcony or something and keep your stun gun out,”

***
The tension in the room was literately at its breaking point. Matthew was becoming more and more agitated. He didn’t know where his wife was and it was starting worry him. Alfred was getting antsy; he wanted to wreck something and some soon. Francis was having wine in the corner. The clock struck ten. Roma soon appeared in the room. Everyone went silent. He was a tall man with dark hair and purple eyes dressed a very smart black suit. He walked through the room without a word. He stopped only momentarily to take a cannoli from the dessert cart and eat it walk her calmly went into the other room. The room was left in confusion. He didn’t say a word and they went back to their conversation. Another door opened, Lovino brought _________ back into the room. She looked visibly shaken but relived that she was in somewhere familiar.

“_________,”

“Mattie?”

“Where were you?!”

“Kidnapped,” she said. She explained what happened with the truffles and waking up in the bedroom (not telling who freed her), “I escaped and Lovi brought me here!”

“Who did it?!”

“Gattina…who let your out of your cage?” she froze. Feliciano pulled her into his arms, “I guess I’m going to chain you tighter this—,” she shoved him away as a barbwire hockey stick slammed Feliciano across the face. He looked at the pair. Matthew stood in front of her and got ready to attack again, “Wow, it’s been awhile, Mattie,”

“Hello Feli,” he growled. Feliciano stared at _________ then to Matthew and then back again. He smirks.

“Cara Mattie, if I knew she was yours, I would have had her in my bed, screaming my name with you watching by now,”

“Fuck you,”

“Funny, I intend to really fuck your wife,” Matthew went at him again. Feliciano blocked with his knife. Both went at it. Lovi pulled ________ out of the way. Kuro took the opportunity to join the fight while Matthew’s back was turned. He took out his sword and ran at the pair. He didn’t get far, a bat connected his stomach. He doubled over. He looked up to see the smug face of Alfred Jones.

“Fucking Yank,”

“Wanna finish what we started, Kuro-chan?”

“You think I’m going to really let a kusottare like you win?”

“Heh, bring it old man,”

“I don’t fuckin’ think so,” Heracles said, “I have some unfinished business with him,” Soon the room erupted into violent scene. There two or three against one, one on one two on one, three on three, every sort of thing you could imagine. Concealed weapons came out from all directions and years and years of suppressed rage and anger was now embodied in the room. Kuro got up and went after him. Heracles’ weapons of choice were a pair of falcata. He blocked and dodged but had to keep up with speed with Kuro. Because Kuro went in, Yong and Kasem went after the Greek. However, they both hit a snag. Wang was holding two chui in his hands smiling mischievously at them. Although shorter, he was not about to back down.

“You should have come to join us,” said Kasem growling.

“Yao isn’t so bad, then again, working under a bunch of people really is nice isn’t, puppet?” Kasem made a slice at his throat. Wang dodged and wielded his heavy metal clubs swinging them violently at Kasem and Yong until Ivan took the burden off and went after Yong. Viktor, on the other hand, barely had time to dodge. He was fast but so was Alfred. He shoved his bat into his stomach and punched him. Viktor’s face went back as Alfred slammed him over and over with his bat.

“Motherfucker, I don’t I was going to let you walk after fuckin’ around with me,”

“Is that all you got you American fucker?”

“Just getting started,” Blood soon covered the black marble. Members of the Italian Mafia ran in, though they didn’t get too far. Toris, Ravis, and Eduard’s job from Ivan was not to allow anyone to interfere in what he called the Grudge Match. He told them he could kill as many as they wanted, as long as they keep them away. Antonio and Monika did the same for Francis. Soon there were limbs flying across the room. Ravis glanced over at Alfred who was holding his own against Viktor.

“Hurry up fucker! There won’t be any more bodies if you keep playing around!”

“Who’s fuckin’ playing?!” Alfred dodged again and took a hit to the ribs, “I’d like to see you do better!”

“Probably could! Remember, if you die, I’m giving it to your bitch,” Ravis wrapped a sharp piece of wire around man’s neck and tucked, taking his head clean off.

“FUCK YOU!”

“I’d rather fuck her! Oh Ravis, you’re so small but you’re big where it counts!” That did it. Alfred ignored his pain, the adrenaline burst and started beating the sense out of Viktor. He went to plunge his sword into Alfred, but he caught it, cutting his hand in the progress, and knock in his temple. Viktor fell with a thud. Alfred spats. Eduard was impressed.

“You really know how to rile him up don’t you?”

“It’s a hobby,” he shrugged. Francis on the other hand tried to slip away for he could finish what he started with Roma, since Matthew was busy with Feliciano. He used the chaos to slip towards the door. A hook sword stopped him. He looked up see a Taiwanese woman in a black and red qipao. Her brown hair fell lazy at her shoulders. Her eyes mocked him.

"Don't tell me you're leaving the party so soon Francis,"

"Hello Mei. Still blowing Kuro I see, I can smell him on your breath,"

"Fuck you old man," she said and went after him again. Francis smirked and sliced at her with his saber. He reflected and parried her attacks. Both of their advantages were being close. But she had the upper hand, she used two swords instead of one. He really didn't have time for this shit. He went at her faster blocking her twin swords. She continued to backup more and more. He wanted to her get as close as he could from there he could carry out his plan. He finally got her where he wanted her. He grabbed one of her hook blade and brought his down on her shoulder. She screamed and dropped her other blade. He went in for the kill but without warning, she ducked and slashed his stomach with her other one. It wasn't deep but it was still hit like hell.

"Salope!"

"Payback," she kneed him in his stomach. He doubled over. She held her shoulder while standing over him, "What's the matter old man?" she mocked, "Getting too old for this game?"

"Look behind you," he growled.

"I'm not really going to fall for that on--ACK!" Antonio pulled his ax out of her back. She crumbled into a heap on the floor. Francis kicked her a few times before kicking her to the side. The two men nothing and parted ways. Now he was too incapacitated to even try and handle Roma. He glared over at the Taiwanese woman. She'll pay for this later. Artie followed Roma out of the Gala when everyone started fighting. And as planned, the man ate one his cannolis. The effects of it should take after an hour and that was all he needed. He kept thinking about that day again. Francis and Matthew in the hospital because of him. Everything was because of him. He walked towards the man's study to get him there. He decided to end him in his study. Then he heard a gun click. He stopped.

"Hello Lutz," he said not turning around.

"What you're thinking is suicide, Artie," he growled.

"I can't just let him get away with this,"

"And risk getting killed yourself? Don't be selfish,"

"I know I'd win,"

"Don't get cocky," Artie sighed. Of all the people, why was it him? "I know you're upset but it wouldn't do any good to get yourself seriously injured because you want petty revenge,"

"It's not petty! Have you ever lost someone that was important to you?!"

"Besides you?" Artie turned around.

"Lutz...you didn't lose me," he said reddening, “I’m sorry I…look at me, I’m stuttering,”

“Still know how to get you, don’t I? Come on, you know I’m not good with this shit and besides, your fuckin’ family would be behinds themselves if they knew what you were about to do,” Artie thought for a few moments.

“Let’s go,”

“Still angry?”

“A bit but I think he’ll know better in the future to not mess with my family again,”

“Kind of figured but I’m guess whatever was in that canolli isn’t going to kill him,”

“He could survive it, if he’s discovered in time,” Lutz didn’t even want to know what Artie did but he knew it was very unpleasant. Roma slipped away back to his study. His work there was done and soon all he had to do was just pick up the pieces. He felt so relaxed after that. He headed to his study. He didn't know why he felt so relaxed. He felt too relaxed but it came with age, he knew that. He noticed something almost immediately when he entered and decided to go to his balcony instead. He then felt weary, very weary. He started coughing violently. He slumped over his balcony. He started breaking out in a cold sweat, his whole body was chilled. He unloosened his tie and shirt. Lacerations appeared on his body. He knew he had to calm himself. He knew if he didn’t, he’d succumb to the disease that was coursing through his body. He lies on the floor of his balcony. He looked at the stars. He couldn’t help but smile through his coughing. Wouldn’t this be the perfect way to end his Empire, on a beautiful night like this?

***
_________ fought her way through towards the balcony with Monika. They both fought back to back while running. If either of them found an opening, they pulled the other with them. They had to duck and dodge weapons, bullets, and even fists.

“I didn’t know they could escalate so fast!” she said.

“These bastards all hate each other, it was inevitable. LOOK OUT!” Monika slammed another Italian down, “And having the Mafia in here isn’t fair fuckin’ play,”

“I think they’re regretting it now,” they ran past Toris who was playing “tag” with Alfred and Ravis, where they chase the men around and killed their victims with whatever object they were tagged near. So far these items were a vase, a plant, and a cake slicer. ________ moved to the side and found an opening between two men. She pulled Monika and went through. One of the men turned.

“YOU!” she turned. Yong looked murderous at her. She quickly ran for it. Yong when after her. Monika looked puzzled.

“What just happened?!”

“He wants to kill me!”

“What the fuck did you do?!”

“One incident I told him he was over compensating and the other well I left him for dead in Canada, it’s a long story!”

“And I thought Alfred made friend easily,”

“No time for bad jokes!” Monika smirked. She then grabbed ________ and pulled her back, just in time for Wang and Kasem exchanging blow for blow. Even though he was taller, Wang’s chui was heavier and connected harder. Kasem was faltering, the final blow to his stomach decided it. Wang still had his infamous smile on her face.

“Yay! Oh hi ladies! Sorry about that! What are you doing?”

“Getting me to the balcony so I won’t get killed,”

“Ooh! Lemme help! I already took care of Kasem!” soon now there were three, they finally managed to get through the piling bodies, limbs, and attacks. All the while he talked about the fights so far.

“Alfred took down Viktor but he got up again then Vladimir took over. You haven’t met Vlad have you? He’s from Romania and a part of the Romanian Syndicate. Hate Viktor’s guts actually! Alfred and Ivan’s have been having their contest. So far Alfred and Ravis are tied,”

“I hope Matt’s okay,”

“He could handle anything! Don’t worry your pretty little head!” said Monika, “In a few minutes, you’re going to be home, having hot, piping sex in every home,”

“Damn it Monika!”

“I'm right, am I! You look so cute when you’re flustered! I’m totally pinching those cheeks when we’re safe and sound,”

Matthew and Feliciano were exchanging blow for blow, while dodging the shit that was going around them. Both of them were near exhaustion, covered in blood, theirs and their opponents but still found on. Feliciano grinned.

“We both know how this is going to end Mattie, only this time I’ll make sure you’re dead, amico,”

“You fuckin’ cheated the last time,” he dodged another knife swipe from the Italian with his hockey stick.

“You know what I’m going to do after I kill you?”

“Don’t say fuck my wife, that shit gets old,”

“Game’s change in this case. I wonder how it’ll look to see her pretty red blood outside of her body, that is, if she resists me,”

“She can handle herself and that’s why I fuckin’ married her!” Matthew shoved rammed the hockey stick into his stomach. Feliciano grins and cuts Matthew across the eye.

“You didn’t think I came without protecting myself, bastardo,”

“Kind of figured,” Matthew winced. Feliciano went at him with his knife again. Matthew and wrapped his neck in barbwire. He started choking the man with everything he had. Blood poured from his neck as he gasped for air. Matthew had a sick grin on his face while Feliciano flailed. The wire wasn’t sharp but it won’t be long to finish him off. He then looked up. He looked up. He saw ________ with her stun gun out racing to the balcony with Monika. He didn’t give two shits about anyone else seeing him like that but she was different. He didn’t want her seeing him do this. He lets Feliciano go and went to her. But this time, ________ was at the balcony. It was time to go and get her out of this shit. He’ll feel a lot better knowing she was safe. He grabbed her hand. He looked over the edge. It was a long jump down. She looked at him.

“No way!”

“You trust me don’t you?”

“Of course!” they teetered over the edge. Then everything went into slow motion. ________ heard Yong’s voice.

“Die you fuckin’ bitch!” then she heard gunshots. From there, she saw the city below. Then she remembered falling, Matthew holding her close as they both fell. She didn’t remember much else, just that she was immense pain. Matthew groaned. They landed with a thud but otherwise fine, so he thought. They fell a few stories and onto something semi soft, a mattress put there no doubt by Lovi. He realized that _______ wasn’t moving. She didn’t even saw a sound. He moved his hands from his body. To his horror his hands were covered in blood. He stared in shock. Her body was limp.

“________? Hey! C-Come on!” He gently turned her over and saw she was bleeding from the chest. Blood poured and spread in crimson pools. He noticed three exit wounds in her chest. Her breathing was labored but the fact was that she was still alive but he if didn’t do something soon, it wouldn’t be long. He quickly picked her up and ran towards his truck. Her eyes were starting to come dull and lifeless, “Fuck! Fuck! Fuck! FUCK!” Francis and Alfred, saw them scene, and came running towards them. Alfred stopped when he saw Matthew holding _________’s lifeless body.

“Come on! Hurry up! She doesn’t have much time!” They loaded into Alfred’s car and drove off to the nearest hospital. Matthew was so shaken, he couldn’t speak. He almost lost her once, he didn’t want to lose her again…