Loathsome Brothers

Mafia Gala

Arius' Pov

I open the last button of my tux as I sit down across from my parents. Mom eyes my outfit giving me a nod of approval as her gaze shifts back to the file in her lap.

Appearance really matters in events like today. Events where you'll be greeted by most feared men and women from around the world.

Felix would much rather prefer to wear jeans or trousers but he knows better and wore a black tux. I on the other hand love to dress formal and chose a royal blue tux, perfectly tailored to my size.

Soon the driver starts the car on my brother's instructions. And we start our journey to the flagship event of our world; the Mafia Gala.

"I think we should invite all our new allies over for dinner next weekend" Dad suggested to which mom hummed, tearing her gaze from the papers.

"We could. But I don't want to give an impression that our alliance with them was a desperate measure rather than a diplomatic solution" She replies deep in thought.

She's right. Our alliance with the Spanish, Greeks, Austrians and Italians were formed only to put an end to the sick minded French's futile killing spree.

After the death of American Mafia's leader, the French had gone to lengths, disregarding every unspoken law to quench their power hungry thirst.

Everyone had predicted them to calm down soon and not be foolish enough to make enemies with every major Mafia. But when they joined hands with Germany and Denmark, the situation got worse.

Many Mafias were forced to form unwanted alliances to stay in the power game. And we were no exception.

"But we need to strengthen our alliance with each of them. We can't predict the future. It's better that we make it clear that we do intend on continuing a peaceful fellowship"

"I think you're right" Mom agreed. "I'll talk to Lorenzo Bianchi. You talk to Hernandez" I made a mental note to give Nora a heads-up for it.

She was really pissed that her family didn't inform her of the Gala until two days ago. She ranted about it alot yesterday and was slightly surprised when I told her that I'll be there too.

The car ride was smooth with my parents talking about all the people they had to talk to today. While I did slide in a few opinions and suggestions that they considered, they still didn't want me fully in.

One thing that still pisses me off is that my parents treat me like a kid. I'm eighteen for god's sake! They're adamant on letting me completely join the Mafia only when I've graduated.

I'm grateful that they include me here and there but I really want to do more than they allow me to. But atleast they don't treat me like a five year old in public.

If they let me, I'll prove to be worthy of holding the position of a second-in-command. Hell, I'll even take the underboss title at this point. I'm desperate to work.

I've been trained to become the future Leader of British Mafia. I'm smart enough to take risky and necessary decisions. Other than that, I'm capable of giving people the most miserable and slow death.

I love to kill. It's peaceful. And my job calls for it. Also, it's a good skill to have. Doesn't hurt to hurt others in a world where everyone is up your ass.

We get off the car as it's parked outside the palace that's used each year for the Gala. It might be the prettiest of places but it sure has a dark history, with innumerable illegal deals and agreements formed here.

This Mafia Gala isn't a place to socialize or get a break from a tiring routine. It was an opportunity for all.

Alliances could be formed between generational rivals. Civil negotiations could be held between the worst enemies. And everyone can know their place in the sea of money, power and ego.