Story of Absurdity

## Chapter 1

In terms of the companions that a male penguin could have, Nicholas Mason is one of Honk Gong's luckiest creatures. His first companion, Jacqueline Chung, is a beauty with brains who read a law degree from Cuntbridge University and graduated with first class honours. She is the youngest female partner in Moore & Partners, which is one of Honk Gong's oldest law firms. Another, Sally Tang, is a managing director in Nicholas's Orient Banking Group. Even though she, like Jacqueline, is not a creature who lacks merits, her promotion from vice-president to managing director a few months after she moved into Nick's mansion in Spice Bay is said to be the product of nepotism. The third woman, Roslyn Wong, is one of Hong Kong's most famous actresses. Despite her fame and success, she is arguably the least impressive but the most physically stunning among the three. Many have lamented her for starring in many premium TV shows and movies despite having mediocre acting skills. Despite that, she is easily more beautiful than over 99% of all female creatures in the city-state even without makeup. As the saying goes, looks do sell after all.

Why so many women, one might ask. A wealthy penguin like Nicholas Mason has to keep his prick satisfied. In fact, most males have to keep their pricks satisfied, but if they are wealthy like Nick they could afford to have multiple women. Nick is not by any measure the wealthiest person in his social sphere. However, his banking fortune is substantial despite only being around "1.2 billion CPC". This amount, while massive, is peanut compared to one branch of the Mason family that he is visiting this evening. Driving past the secluded mansions in the Peak, Nick can't help but feel envy seething inside him as his relatives' mansion creeps closer. While he is lost in his jealous thoughts, the Ferrari Dino nearly runs over a jogger.

Nick: "Why the fuck is there still a jogger at this hour? They should stop penguins from jogging along these narrow roads so that they won't get run over. I bet many of them don't even live here."

After a few more minutes, the car stops in front of a freshly painted but obviously dated gate. If there is a house on the parcel of land behind the gate, then Nick is unable to see it. Nor can anyone else do so on the public roads. A penguin wearing a plain polo with a kevlar vest appears from the guardhouse and approaches the vintage sports car.

Guard: "Good evening, Nicholas."

Nick: "You too."

As he enters the compound, Nick feels impressed by the fact that the security guard knows his name even though he has never met the person before. He is not sure anyway, as he has a forgetful memory. It is only when he takes a second look that he realises the penguin is wielding a pump-action shotgun. “Seriously, a shotgun？ That is overkill, you old fuck," he comments on Daniel Mason's employment of armed guards. It is then he gets a full-view of the neo-Palladian mansion built upon the fortune of Honk Gong's top conglomerates. According to Nick's estimation, the structure alone is worth 38 million CPC, but the land it sits on is worth roughly 1 billion CPC.

The Mason Group's interests are diversified, but it is primarily involved in logistics (owning multiple warehouses and operating container terminals with several other allied companies), real estate (building 3 of the city-state's shopping malls on its own and building another 4 via consortiums), trading general commodities and various other sectors. It is normal for the Mason Group to be involved in all aspects of a Honk Gonger's daily life. They would wake up in a cramped apartment built by the conglomerate, waken by the alarm of a smartphone that is imported by the company, before getting breakfast in a chain restaurant owned by the company and then going to work in a company that the Mason Group has varying degrees of ownership in. Ever since the patriarch started investing in private equity, its influence over the regional economy of Asiapelago has only grown.

At the footsteps leading to the main entrance, a girl around his age, probably 3 years younger, is typing away on her smartphone. She is dressed in a ruby red dress and she looks like a mixed Malesian-Zhouese penguin. Nick stops his car in front of her, which is parked by a valet, and then makes his exit. She momentarily stops typing and looks at the vehicle and its owner.

Penguin: "That is a rather uncommon car you've got there."

Nick: "Why yes, it is. It's more likely to see a 488 or a 458 on the streets of Central than a Dino."

Penguin: "I haven't seen you in a while, Nick."

Nick: "Wait, how did you know my name?"

Penguin: "I'm Vivian, goddamnit."

Nick's memories of this person suddenly reemerges. The last time he saw her in real life was when she was 14 and he was 16. Even back then, he thought she was a smokeshow. Despite not looking like a full Zhouese penguin, she is probably more attractive than Nick's companions in his subjective opinion. He saw her account on social media a year ago, but he didn't chat with her as he was busy trading oil derivatives.

Nick: "Oh yeah, right. How are you doing?"

Vivian: "I just started working in Mason Properties 2 months ago as a vice president. I suppose the MBA from my university helped."

Nick: "Of course your Ivory League degree did, along with old-fashioned nepotism."

The banker smirks.

Vivian: "As if you didn't benefit from it."

Nick: "Never said I didn't."

The dinner consists of three courses. Cream of asparagus is served, followed by roasted veal and "burnt" cheesecake. The group is seated on a rectangular table, with the patriarch Daniel seated on one end. The two penguins seated closest to him are Nick and Vivian's father (and Daniel's son) Benedict. Vivian and her mother sit besides the two respectively.

Daniel: "Nick, we really need your bank's help to acquire FakChoy Entertainment."

Nick: "I'm sure I can help you with that."

Benedict: "Can you lower the M&A fees for us? After all, we are family."

*No, I don't really consider you to be my family, dumbass*, Nick says to himself. He still remembers how Daniel refused to bail out his father's company several years ago when it nearly went under. Vivian sees red in her cousin's eyes.

Nick: "I can lower it from 1.2% to 1% since this is a multi-billion transaction."

Benedict: "Nah, I was thinking 0.5%."

For a moment, Nick is tempted to grab the dinner knife and throw it at his unreasonable uncle. He manages to keep his composure by taking a sip of Riesling from his glass while locking eyes with Ben. It is then that Benedict breaks into laughter. His daughter cringes from the badly attempted joke.

Daniel: "Ben is just kidding, Nicky boi. We'll go with 1%. This is a really important deal for us, so we really need the best team to help us out."

Nick: "Would you care to explain why?"

Daniel: "As you might be aware, our family has attempted to break into Margate's gambling industry for years without any success. FakChoy holds one of the 2 casino licenses in the city-state, along with the Silva Corporation. It also owns several of Muçao's casinos and operates Honk Gong's only lottery. In order to expand our operations, acquiring this company is a strategic move."

Benedict: "We can't let the Silva Corporation get them."

The patriarch angrily bangs his flippers on the table upon hearing his rivals' name.

Daniel: "THE GODDAMN SILVA'S! WE CAN'T LET THEM GET AWAY WITH STEALING OUR PROFITS!"

Nick and Vivian look at each other. *They aren't your profits yet but okay*, they both think to themselves.

Daniel: "IF THEY OWN FAKCHOY, THEN THEY WILL MONOPOLISE MARGATE'S CASINOS AND INCREASE THEIR MARKET SHARE IN THE WORLD'S GAMBLING CAPITAL BY A HUGE MARGIN! THOSE GREEDY PIGS!"

Nick: "I'm sure they're just looking to expand their operations like you."

Daniel: "Why can't that pig Rafael Silva give us some breathing space? He is already worth 13.8 billion CPC. What else does he want?"

This is the peril of being surrounded by the rich. For someone who is rich, like Nick, there is always someone who is richer. He shakes his head in disapproval, as Daniel himself is worth 6 billion CPC. He is not impoverished by any means.

Ben: "Do you think we can convince the Margatian government to block the Silva corporation's acquisition of FakChoy's operations in the city-state?"

Nick: "I doubt it. Even though the chairman and the CEO is the Westioner president's father-in-law, the acquisition won't be blocked because the gambling industry does not have any national security implications for the Margatians."

Daniel: "Can't we nail them on suspicions of corruption?"

Nick: "I doubt the acquisition will benefit President Tulsuoy."

Ben: "You're not a banker, man. Let your bankers give their advice."

Nick: "They will say the same thing, actually."

Daniel: "No they won't."

Nick: "Okay, boomer."

Daniel: "Anyway, just send your bankers to discuss this deal with me at my office on Monday. We'll work out on the specifics then."

“Can you believe that old douche?!”, Nick exclaims as he walks into his detached house on Spice Bay Road. Jacqueline is typing away on her notebook on one of the living room’s sofas, while Roslyn is watching a period drama show on her own laptop.

Jacqueline: “Which douche? Your granddad?”

Nick: “He’s not my granddad.”

Jacqueline: “Well even if you hate him, he’s still your granddad.”

Roslyn: “Why do you hate him anyway?”

Nick: “Well, I also hate his son. That fricking grunt Benedict attempted to lowball me when it comes to M&A fees.”

Jacqueline: “By how much?”

Nick: “I offered to lower the percentage from 1.2% to 1%, but he dared to suggest 0.5%! What the eff?! How am I supposed to explain to my bankers when their bonuses are low.”

Roslyn: “They get paid millions anyway.”

Nick: “If they get a lowball bonus, they will join my rivals. They’re some of the best bankers in Honk Gong, if not the world. I can’t afford to lose them at all.”

Jacqueline: “Who are the lawyers handling the deal?”

Nick: “Well you already know the Mason Group is going to hire you to represent them. I’m not aware of FakChoy’s lawyers though. Where’s Sally by the way?”

Roslyn: “Probably slaving away for you.”

Nick: “Shush it.”

Jacqueline: “How is the house like?”

Nick: “I have to be honest. It’s one of the best looking houses in Honk Gong, if not the best. It is at least 16,000 square feet large.”

Roslyn: “Dang!”

Nick: “I know, right? The entire residence is probably worth 1 billion CPC.”

Jacqueline: “Wait that means he’s paying at least 500,000 CPC on property taxes alone every year.”

Nick: “I guess.”

Roslyn: “Damn. That’s more than what I earn in 3 months.”

Often times, words muttered by penguins such as Daniel Mason should be taken with a grain of salt. However, unbeknownst even to him, the allegations of corruption that he told Nick about are half-truths. While the Margatians themselves does not even consider blocking the acquisition by the Silva Corporation, President Stanley Tulsuoy takes the initiative by inviting the Margatian ambassador to Westion for dinner and bringing the topic up, while subtly mentioning the bid of one of the Margatian Investment Corporation’s portfolio companies to build a 2.3 billion CPC industrial park in Westion. Needless to say, the Margatians approve of the Silva Corporation’s acquisition.

At his mahagony desk, Tulsuoy is reviewing a bill recently passed by the Parliament in his Government House office when the Director of the Politico-Security Bureau, James Cavanaugh, approaches him.

Tulsuoy: “Good morning, do have a seat.”

Cavanaugh: “Sir, I’d like to present my findings to you.”

Tulsuoy: “Regarding what?”

Cavanaugh: “Last week, my bureau has gathered the names of several organisations that are suspected to be involved in drug trafficking.”

Tulsuoy: “Drug traffficking? Is that even a problem here?”

Cavanaugh: “Due to our country’s close proximity to the USA, our ports are used as a transit hub for narcotics distribution.”

Tulsuoy: “Fair enough. Who are the major cartels?”

Cavanaugh: “We suspect that Gamarra Holdings is the largest drug trafficking organisation in Westion, and perhaps one of the largest in the world.”

Tulsuoy: “How so?”

Cavanaugh: “3 weeks ago, over 1.3 tons of heroin were seized in the container terminal that Gamarra Holdings operated. Apparently the batch was to be shipped to Margate. 4 months before that, we intercepted another 2 tons of heroin and 890 kg of meth in the same terminal, which were also about to be shipped to the Ninja Archipelago.”

Tulsuoy: “Alright, keep investigating the matter.”

Cavanaugh: “Of course, Mr. President.”

As the spymaster left the room, Tulsuoy took off his clubmaster/browline glasses and pinched the bridge of his nose in despair.

Tulsuoy: “What the fuck, Rafael? You’re already the wealthiest penguin in Westion. Why do you have to smuggle drugs?”

It did not occur to the spymaster, but Stanley Tulsuoy himself was partially involved in setting up Gamarra Holdings. Years ago, Tulsuoy was a banker that specialised in helping his clients to avoid complex tax problems. Rafael Silva, who had already known him by then because he was dating his daughter Yvonne Xaviera Silva, recruited his employer’s help in setting up a complex network of corporations in order to make his holdings as opaque as possible. At the time, he thought that like all of his other clients, Rafael merely wanted to hide his assets for privacy and taxation purposes. However, a third reason is apparent now. His father-in-law is involved in illicit activities.

## Chapter 2

While on his way back to his black-and-white bungalow, Tulsuoy can't stop thinking about Cavanaugh's revelation to him. *Why would he do that? It couldn't possibly be real,* Stanley keeps wondering. From an outsider's perspective, it does not make sense either. Rafael Silva is the wealthiest penguin in Westion, who controls the largest swath of privately-owned land in the country and several of the country's most profitable companies. Like his arch-nemesis Daniel Mason, his interests range from real estate, container terminals, retail to finance, telecommunications and agriculture. Last year alone, the old man earned at least 300 million CPC from dividends distributed by his portfolio companies.

As he arrives home, he notices that Yvonne is already home as her Volvo S80 is already in the driveway. He steps out of his official car before entering his house. A pot of Darjeeling tea, along with 2 almond biscottis and a cup, are on the outdoors table at the veranda. He pours the brew for himself while he starts reading a novel. Not long after, Yvonne approaches him. They give each other a hug before sitting down.

Stanley: "I have some rather shocking news about your dad."

Yvonne: "What is it?"

Stanley: "The PSB thinks that one of his companies is trafficking drugs. Not only that, but they also suspect said company to be the largest drug smuggler in the country."

Yvonne: "WHAT?!"

Stanley: "In other words, your father might be a drug lord."

Yvonne: "Stanley, I know for a fact that he would not peddle drugs."

Stanley: “Well, I do trust the PSB’s intel. They really are the best.”

Yvonne: “Maybe they made a mistake.”

The president sighs.

Stanley: “Alright, maybe Cavanaugh made a mistake. I’ll just wait double-confirmation then.”

Kalieth High School is considered by many Nexonans to be one of the top public high schools in Nexon. It has sent more students to the prestigious Ivory League universities than any other public high school in the empire. Top-scorers in the country’s notorious Higher Studies Examinations (HSE) often come from this school. It often competes with top-tier private schools such as Junxiao Independent High School and Astoria Private School in matters such as sports, extracurriculars and academics.

Caroline and Charlotte Mason are recent enrolled in the school after they finished Grade 9 last semester. Their father sent the twin sisters to join their elder brother, Jonathan (who will be known as Slender II in the future), in the public school as he wants them to socialise with penguins from a diverse range of backgrounds. As they step out of their chauffeured Volvo S90, penguins around them were immediately taken aback by how much they looked alike. Both of them have dark brown hair, white feathers and share nearly identical facial features. Their faces are on the chubbier side, albeit that only make them even more stunning. The twins are even wearing white hoodies from the same brand. The only differences between them are that Caroline has her hair tied into a messy bun, while Charlotte has hers tied into a ponytail. They also have different schoolbags, with Caroline’s being red and Charlotte’s black.

Caroline: “Where is Jonathan again?”

Charlotte: “He said that he’ll be waiting at the indoor basketball court.”

As they walk past the onlookers, the students begin to chatter among one another.

Student 1: “Are those two clones of each other or something?”

Student 2: “Doofus, they’re twins!”

Student 3: “Any idea who they are?”

Student 2: “I heard that they are Jonathan’s sisters.”

Student 1: “Whoever they are, they must be extremely wealthy to be chauffeured to school.”

Standing outside the main building’s entrance, the twins look around and notice several benches placed around them. Students are either using their mobile devices or dating each other on them. They approach a student who is using his smartphone to play a game.

Charlotte: “Excuse me?”

The student looks up and gets a shock as he sees two identical penguins in front of him. He is too stunned to say anything. The twins are able to tell he’s surprised as his facial expression suddenly changed upon seeing them, but it is a common occurence in the morning since penguins still tend to be groggy.

Charlotte: “Do you happen to know where is the indoor basketball court?”

Student: “Oh...you two must be new, right?”

Caroline: “Yeah, we are.”

Student: “Ah, just follow me. I’ll bring you two there.”

The twins follow the bespectacled penguin as he leads them to the basketball court. They walk past the hallways, where many students look at the twins in curiosity.

Caroline: “By the way, what is your name?”

Student: “Oh, just call me Andrew. Andrew Solomon.”

Caroline: “Nice to meet you, I’m Caroline.”

Charlotte: “And I’m Charlotte.”

Andrew: “Wait, can you repeat that again?”

He stops walking to look at the twins in an attempt to find a way to identify who’s who.

Caroline: “I’m Caroline.”

Charlotte: “I’m Charlotte.”

Andrew: “Ummm...”

Charlotte: “Look, for today just remember that I’m wearing a ponytail while my sister is wearing a messy bun.”

Andrew: “And how do I distinguish between you two on other days?”

Caroline: “Usually, I’ll be wearing spectacles like the one that I’m currently wearing. Charlotte doesn’t wear spectacles unless she is extremely tired in the morning.”

Andrew takes a closer look at the twins. Caroline is wearing a pair of black and oversized full-frame spectacles with a square shape, while Charlotte is wearing a pair of round spectacles that’s recently revived by Joseonean popular culture. Charlotte lets out a yawn.

Charlotte: “Yeah, I’m particularly exhausted today. The wedding reception yesterday lasted until 12:30 am this morning!”

Caroline: “I don’t even know how Jonathan is able to shoot basketballs even though he slept later than the two of us.”

Andrew: “Wait, Jonathan Munro is your brother?”

The twins suddenly remember what their father told them. They are reminded that their surname is registered in the school’s database as Munro, rather than Mason.

Caroline: “Yeah, he’s our brother. That’s why we’re going to the basketball court right now.”

Andrew remains silent as he continues walking to the court. *Who the heck are these penguins? Jonathan drives a Bugatti Chiron to school every day,* he wonders. Soon enough, they are inside the basketball court. Jonathan is sitting on one of the benches, having taken a quick shower after his practices.

Andrew: “Alright, I’ll get going now. See you two soon.”

Charlotte and Caroline: “Thank you!”

Jonathan walks towards his sisters with his bag in tow.

Jonathan: “How late did you two sleep last night?”

Charlotte: “Well we only slept for 5 hours.”

Jonathan: “Both of you look exhausted as fuck.”

Caroline: “Well blame dad for entertaining his guests until midnight.”

Jonathan brings the sisters to the school’s own convenience store, which is modelled after those found in Japaland and South Joseon. Not only are imported snacks and drinks sold, microwave meals, ramen cups (complete with hot water dispensers to cook the noodles), cosmetic products, stationery and oden are also available for purchase. Caroline buys a bowl of the in-house spicy ramen noodles with a slice of cheese on top, while Charlotte buys a cup of flat white and a tuna sandwich. Jonathan buys a yoghurt drink and a bowl of spicy ramen noodles. Upon making their purchase, they sit at one of the several tables in the store. Several students are also there to have a quick breakfast.

Jonathan: “Caroline, you’ll regret having those noodles.”

Caroline: “C’mon, I’ve had spicy food ever since I was a chick. Do you think I’d be afraid of this?”

The naive girl puts a spoonful of noodles into her beak. Immediately she feels the broth’s spiciness stinging her tongue. She forcefully swallowed the contents in her mouth. Jonathan smirks and gives her his yogurt drink, which she quickly drinks a considerable amount of.

Jonathan: “You’re welcome. I told you that it’s really spicy.”

The brother heads off to buy another yoghurt drink. The twins start chatting among themselves.

Charlotte: “How do you feel about dad taking a second wife?”

Caroline: “I don’t really mind. She seems like a kind and outgoing gal.”

Charlotte: “I’m cool with Candice, but him taking a second wife when he’s already married to Nicole is in itself weird.”

Jonathan: “I hear something about Nicole.”

The twins turn to their brother in shock, as they thought that he wouldn’t return that quickly.

Caroline: “What do you feel about yesterday’s wedding?”

Jonathan: “Aside from the fact that the Farah Langley accidentally stomped my foot during the dance, I must say that I enjoyed it.”

Charlotte: “No, she meant dad’s marriage to Candice.”

Jonathan: “Ah, well I don’t really see a problem with it.”

Charlotte: “Doesn’t the fact that he’s already married to Nicole bother you?”

Jonathan: “Not really. As long as they love each other and Nicole is fine with it, I couldn’t care less.”

Caroline: “Yeah. I had a difficult time adjusting to dad marrying Nicole after mom passed, but she turns out to be a really sweet woman.”

Cuharlotte: “I’m not worried about Candice’s character. I’m just weirded out by dad having 2 wives.”

*You sweet sweet summer child. If only you know that dad has far more than 2 women out there,* Jonathan thought.

At the table behind Charlotte and Caroline, 4 students overheard the Mason *Munro* kids’ chat and started talking to each other.

Student 1: “Guys, did you hear that?”

Student 2: “What?”

The penguin signalled for all of them to speak silently.

Student 1: “The siblings behind me just said something about their dad marrying a second wife called Candice last night.”

Student 3: “Wait, you mean Candice as in Emperor Slender’s second wife, Princess Candice of Kush?”

Student 1: “Yes, as in the woman married by the Emperor yesterday.”

Student 4: “That’s probably a coincidence.”

Student 2: “To be fair, there aren’t a lot of penguins out there named Candice, especially not those who also happen to married as someone’s second wife yesterday.”

Student 1: “The dude also talked about how he danced with Farah Langley last night.”

Student 3: “Wait what?!”

Student 4: “Who’s that supposed to be?”

Student 3: “She’s the daughter of the Earl of Langleyshire! She’s a wealthy aristocrat!”

Student 1: “I also heard something about their dad’s first wife being called Nicole.”

Student 2: “You mean Empress-Consort Nicole?”

Student 1: “Yes.”

Student 3: “Look it can’t be a coincidence anymore. They are definitely the Emperor’s children.”

Student 4: “But we don’t have any concrete proof yet!”

Student 2: “I mean, the brother is known for driving a Bugatti to school every day. I wouldn’t be too surprised if he actually is the Emperor’s son.”

Caroline manages to quickly find a table to have her school lunch as her mathematics teacher had dismissed the class earlier than the other classes. Sabich, 2 falafels, hummus and a carton of orange juice are served today. In her previous school, which is a private school, foods such as ratatouille, baguettes, grilled veal, roast beef and grilled salmon are served instead, followed by an assortment of Francterrean cheeses (most commonly brie and camembert).

Just then, a boy around her age walks up to her table and sits across from her.

Male student: "That was fast."

*Who is this? Is he from my class? I didn't really identify any of my classmates yet*, Caroline wonders.

Caroline: "Yeah Ms. Klein dismissed us early."

Male student: "Oh really? I thought her name is Ms. Thompson."

*I swear that I heard Klein, not Thompson,* she says to herself in confusion. Instead of revealing what’s in her mind, she masks her feeling with a smile instead.

Male student: “Your hair looks different from what you had in class.”

*Oh god, he’s hitting on me.*

Caroline: “Really?”

Male student: “Yeah, that’s one of the best looking messy buns I’ve ever seen.”

*Oh he’s not in my class at all. He confused me for Charlotte.*

A female student appears at that moment. Her face transforms from one of expressionlessness to confusion as she sees Caroline.

Female student: “Charlotte, weren’t you at the counter a while ago?”

Caroline: “Umm, this might be awkward to explain, but that’s my twin sister.”

The two students are stunned for a moment, before they erupt into laughter.

Female student: “Hahahaha, that was good.”

Male student: “I admire your dedication towards making a joke. You went all the way to change your hairstyle just to prank us.”

Charlotte: “She actually is my twin.”

The trio turns to the twin sister, whose only differences are her pair of spectacles and her ponytail.

Male student: “What the-“

Caroline: “I told you I have a twin.”

They sit down rather awkwardly. After a pause, Charlotte speaks up.

Charlotte: “This is my sister, Caroline. Caroline, this is David and this is Felicity.”

Her shyer counterpart gives the two a smile and a wave. David extends his flipper to shake hers.

David: “Nice to meet you.”

After shaking flippers, the four start their meals.

The Nexonan deputy domestic advisor is a rather anal penguin. Every night before he goes to bed, he puts on an ice pack to make his eyes less baggy. After waking up, he starts his day by jogging for at least 15 minutes before doing 100 push-ups and crunches. After that, he cleanses his face with a *specially formulated pore cleansing foam* before washing his body with a *green tea shower gel* and a *honey body scrub*. Every 3 or 4 days, he also uses a *chemical exfoliant* on his face to clear up his dead skin cells. Upon stepping out of the shower, he applies a *charcoal clay facial mask* on his face for 15 minutes. In the meantime, he prepares a glass of cold-pressed juice and 2 slices of toasts, slathered with the finest marmalade. He then sprays an *alcohol-free toner* on his face, as alcohol dries out your face. This is succeeded by a *puffle seminal moisturising cream*, which ensures that his face retains enough moisture. Last but not least, a sunscreen is applied to shield his face from the evil sunlight. He blow-dries his hair with a supersonic hairdryer before styling his hair with clay.

Walking out of his 2 bedroom apartment in 420 Wesley Street, which is a work residence granted to him by the Nexonan Emperor, he then starts waddling to the Imperial Palace of Nexon, which is a majestic building in the middle of Nexon City's central business district. 420 Wesley Street's proximity to the palace is what makes it one of the most expensive apartment buildings in the empire. The Praetorian Guards, armed with their assault rifles, grant him access into the palace. He has an important meeting to attend that day.

He is escorted by an aide into one of the palace's conference rooms, where the Emperor and several other advisors are already there. The deputy domestic advisor takes a glance at Felix Lehder, who manages to look splendid without applying any skincare product except for a sunscreen and moisturiser. Lehder, who is the finance minister of the empire, always manages to look great thanks to his photogenic looks. While the deputy domestic advisor is also a stunner when it comes to his looks, he always holds the belief that he has to look better than everyone else, which is why he has strict skincare and exercise routines. The deputy domestic advisor then takes a look at the Emperor himself, who also looks good in his opinion. *How the heck did he get those stunning eyes without any surgery?!,* he ponders as he remembers his eyelid surgery. Slender appears to be somewhat hungover after his wedding reception yesterday, during which he drank a copious amount of alcohol.

Slender: "Felix, you have something to say?"

Felix delivers his presentation on taxation, which the others listen to intently as nobody else had thought of the points he brought up. *Goddamnit, I need to murder this fucker for being more intelligent than me,* he mutters under his breathe. That is no surprise, as Felix is one of the youngest penguins to graduate *summa cum laude* from Imperial University with Bachelor degrees in both economics and applied mathematics.

Felix: "These are the reasons why I believe my proposal will not only generate more tax revenue for the government, but it will also help increase economic efficiency."

Slender: "Alright..."

The Emperor senses a feeling of pain in his left temple. The other members in the room look at him in confusion. He quickly regains his composure and drinks a glass of water.

Slender: "I will ponder about it. All of you are dismissed."

Slender and his Praetorian guards leave the audience hall. They board a helicopter, which then flies to the Emperor's vacation palace at the outskirts of the capital. While it is smaller in scale compared to the Imperial Palace, it is not by any means less extravagant. Historic works of art are plentiful in the palace, which is clad in marble and other opulent materials. He enters his office suite, where his wives Nicole and Candice are waiting for him. They greet him as soon as he walks into the room.

Slender: "Good morning."

Candice drapes her flippers around the Emperor's shoulders as he begins reviewing the tax proposal submitted by Felix Ledher. She frowns at him.

Slender: "Yes, dear?"

Candice: "I thought this is going to be a honeymoon with no work..."

Slender: "Too bad that this country is under DIR."

Candice: "What does that mean?"

Nicole: "DIR stands for *Direct Imperial Rule*. It means that he holds executive, judicial and legislative powers in Nexon. There is literally no way he can't stop working unless he delegates authority to subordinates."

Candice: "Wow you're so smart."

Nicole blushes, being the humble penguin that she is.

Nicole: "It's nothing, really, but thanks."

Slender: "Well I've already delegated the unimportant affairs to my ministers. If I delegate more tasks, DIR will be challenged."

Unbeknownst to Candice, *Direct Imperial Rule* refers to a provision in the old Nexonan constitution. It enables the Emperor to rule the country by decree in the event that the monarchy is under threat, making it akin to a civilian version of martial law. Years ago, when the Emperor was merely 15 years old, the country came under heavy protest after the Nexonan government was revealed to be colluding with the Westioner government at the time in securing admission for the children of top Nexonan officials into Westion's internationally renowned universities, in exchange for massive bribes. When a police officer was greviously injured by protesters, Slender declared martial law and implemented DIR, giving his armies the green-light to shoot anyone who attempts to undermine the Emperor's authority.

Candice: "My father would like to have dinner with you tonight, by the way."

Slender: "What? That was unannounced."

Nicole: "Apparently he wants to discuss an urgent matter with you."

Slender: "Alright then. My schedule is empty tonight anyway, so I have time for dinner with him."

Notifications emit from the phones of Slender and Nicole. They are from an international news company, linking the viewers to a news article. The CEO of the government-owned Goryeoan Republic Finance Group has been charged with bribery, misuse of power and embezzlement. Over 180 million Club Penguin Coins is alleged to have been gained in illicit manners, with the CEO also allegedly revealed to have over 70 mistresses.

Slender: "Fucking amateur."

## Chapter 3

President Cho Dae-Jung is besieged by nausea in one of the toilet cubicles of the enormous Presidential Office. He attempts to vomit into the toilet, albeit to no avail.

Cho: "Dumbass, why do you have to be caught?"

The President of Goryeo has a valid reason to be worried. In a confidential report to the president, the bank CEO was previously revealed by the Goryeoan Central Intelligence Agency (GCIA) to be engaging in illicit activities. However, Cho seized an opportunity to gain from the mishap. He offered to sweep the report under the rug in exchange for the CEO paying 'tribute' to Cho, which is then used as a slush fund for the ruling National Democratic Party (or National Democrats). One of the bank accounts for the slush fund happened to be in the Goryeoan Republic Financial Group, which has potential to implicate Cho and his party in a corruption scandal.

Cho: "Okay, you know what? I'll have to enlist Kim's help."

The president attempts to regain his composure, before walking back to his office suite to make a phone call.

Slender:" Wait what?!"

The Nexonan Emperor is shocked by what he has just heard. His father-in-law King Nikolai of Kush stops drinking the soup.

Nikolai: "I am going to expand my drug operation and I need some investment. Are you willing to bankroll 600 million Club Penguin Coins?"

Slender: "How much do you expect to make after the expansion?"

Nikolai: "Revenue is expected to increase by 6 times, so at least 24 billion CPC per annum."

Slender: "What the fuck, you are making 4 billion per year?"

Nikolai: "First of all, not all of it go into my pocket. I only make roughly 500 million CPC after paying for my country's development. Secondly, I have been making that amount for the last 7 years. Do you really expect me to be able to gain much from taxing 2.4 million peasants who only earn 3,000 CPC per year on average."

Kush is a small developing nation that has traditionally been ruled by absolute monarchs under a feudal system that renders at least two-thirds of the inhabitants as serfs owned by the king and leased to a group of aristocrats. Traditionally, the local economy subsists on the cultivation of crops, but when Nikolai ascended to the throne, he started forcing his serfs to work in sweatshops and call centers in an attempt to export higher-value goods and make more money. A few years ago, the King started using his serfs to manufacture and smuggle narcotics to countries where these substances are lucrative, especially the United States of Antarctica.

Slender: "Damn. You do realise that's 5 times more money than my fucktard relative Daniel Mason makes from dividends, right?"

Nikolai: "Well I can give you a stake in the business if you want."

Slender: "Fuck no, I am only doing this as a favour for Candice. She gets to keep my cut of the profit."

Nikolai: "You don't need the money anyway. Based on your 'imperial tax' alone, you are making more money than the drug operation's entire revenue after your capital injection."

The Kushian king is right. All Nexonans who work pay an average of 1 CPC per day to the Emperor as a form of personal tribute. As there are 180 million Nexonans, Slender earns 180 million CPC daily from this source alone. In a year, that amount is a staggering 65.7 billion Club Penguin Coins, easily eclipsing the GDP of small countries such as the one ruled by his father-in-law. Like his Nikolai, Slender surrenders a considerable percentage of the money to fill his state coffers (even though Nexonans have a progressive tax levied on the rest of their income and other forms of taxation exist). Unlike him, however, Nexonans make 38,000 CPC per annum, thus significantly reducing the imperial tax's burden on their incomes. In contrast to the 0.96% that they have to pay from their income, Kushians have to pay one-third of their income to their king, while receiving little to none of the benefit that the money could have funded. This is thanks to Nexon's status as a high-income nation, a status that it achieved back in 2013.

Slender: "Of course I don't. What else do you need?"

Nikolai: "Can you give my army new armaments?"

Slender: "That could be done."

*Tulsuoy: "THINK ABOUT OUR FUTURE! DON'T LET YOUR ACTIONS RUIN THE LIVES OF OTHERS WHO SUPPORT YOU!"*

*The bespectacled penguin with a green bandanna wrapped around his head suddenly freezes. The penguins surrounding the two, among whom included Yvonne, stopped as well. All of them were dressed in school uniform, with the males wearing white short-sleeved buttoned shirt and the females wearing white shirts and white skirts. Some of them were wearing navy blue ties, which happen to be an optional but rather fashionable choice to add some colour to their uniforms. Others were wearing red ties, indicating their roles as prefects of their respective schools. Tulsuoy himself was wearing a navy tie.*

*Tulsuoy: "All of us hate corruption here, but we still need to take whatever opportunity we have left to do well in the NSEA (National Secondary Education Assessment). We cannot give them an excuse to fill Westion National University up with the elite's children even if they happen to be far less qualified than some of us could be! Boycotting the NSEA is not a smart move at all, in my opinion. Even if you think it is, do you think it's right to brutally attack students like my friend Timothy just because they have other priorities?!"*

*Many of the penguins started chatting among themselves.*

*Tulsuoy: "You have my guarantee that most students will join the protest after the NSEA, but until then, we have to take care of one final task."*

*With that, the future president walked away from the public square in front of Westion City Hall, with Yvonne quickly following him. Back then he did not know the enormous implications that his speech would have on his career.*

The Westioner president suddenly wakes up. He is sweating heavily from the dream. Tulsuoy looks at his wife, who is soundly asleep. He looks at his watch on the night stand, which indicates that it is time for him to get ready for another day. He walks into the shower and lets cold water drip on his body, as he ponders about what happened in the past.

Despite its Archipelagoan-influenced culture, Westion still adheres to some Asiapelagoan values, one of which is the importance of studying hard. As a result, the National Secondary Education Assessment (NSEA) quickly becomes on par with Goryeo's Suneung exam or Zhou's High Exam as some of the most stressful exams in the world. This is due to the fact that these exams are often the sole determining factor in the university that the exam candidate will be studying in. In the year that Tulsuoy was going to sit for the NSEA,a scandal broke out when it was revealed that some Westioner government officials' children were able to study in the country's most prestigious universities in spite of having below average grades. In addition to that, a Nexonan diplomat's son also gained entrance in exchange for the diplomat giving the country the machinery to exploit its newly discovered offshore oil and gas deposits.

The scandal caused widespread protests after a student from Stanley's school immolated himself in front of the entire school. Students would occupy public space while revising for the NSEA. However, the police was ordered to fire at the protesters in one such protest, killing 32 and injuring hundreds. Police brutality grew as tear gas canisters were thrown everywhere and students were beaten up with batons and shot with plastic (and, in some cases, real) rounds on a daily basis. This resulted in more radical students calling for a nation-wide boycott of the NSEA after rumours spread that the NSEA results were rigged, even going as far as to attack students who were going for "remedial classes" (after school classes that Westioner students take in order to improve their grades in certain subjects, with similar institutions existing in other Asiapelagoan countries), sending Tulsuoy's friend Timothy to the ICU in one such attack and nearly harming Yvonne in another. This caused Tulsuoy to confront the leader of the radical protesters in public, helping him to gain popularity in the process. After the NSEA, Stanley and over 90% of all Westioner students joined the protests. Realising that the entire country had turned against the government, more progressive factions within the military staged a coup and overthrew the government, with many of the more academically successful protest leaders (especially Stanley Tulsuoy) becoming the cream of the crop in Westioner society.

Tulsuoy steps out of the shower after 25 minutes and put on a charcoal grey suit with a white shirt and a navy tie. He waddles to the veranda, where Yvonne is already eating breakfast. Their housemaid prepares toasts with marmalade and coconut jam every morning, along with scrambled eggs for the president and poached eggs for the first lady. Tea is also served.

Tulsuoy: "Good morning."

Yvonne: "You had a bad dream, didn't you?"

The president is stunned.

Tulsuoy: "How did you know?"

Yvonne: "Your side of the bed was drenched in sweat."

Tulsuoy: "Yeah, I had a dream about us being 18 again. I was confronting Howard Chan for what he did and it was a tense situation."

Yvonne: "It really was tense especially after what they did to Timothy. I remember it taking place only 1 week before we sat for the NSEA."

For a while, her husband looks despondent. She realises that she shouldn't have reminded him of the incident. Tulsuoy manages to regain his composure and takes a sip of tea.

Tulsuoy: "Remember how riots broke out immediately after we finished the final paper? When we walked out of the exam venue, we could literally see tear gas being fired by riot police and cars being set on fire. Heck, a tank regiment even mutinied and had their tanks bombard the City Hall."

Yvonne suddenly remembers how her boyfriend at the time held her flippers as they tried to escape the chaotic city to their respective homes, as tear gas canisters and rubber bullets were fired all around them.

Yvonne: "How could I forget about the tanks? I remember the speech you made on top of one the next day. You talked about how we had responsibilities towards not only our families, but also towards our fellow citizens, country and future generations. Your call to spark mass demonstrations was really effective, because hours later over 2/5 of the city's population was rallying on the streets."

Tulsuoy: "And that was partly why I'm here now I guess, haha."

The first lady leans closer to him and adjusts his tie.

Tulsuoy: "Thanks. I have to get to work now."

The president enters his official car.

Chauffeur: "The office, sir?"

Tulsuoy: "Not today. Bring me to Scarsborough Detention Centre."

Chauffeur: "Yes sir."

Tulsuoy: "No, before that, let's go in another car."

The duo walked out of the limousine and into a black Japalandese sedan, before heading to the infamous detention centre. Among Westioners, it is known for being used as a detention facility for political dissidents. When an interim military government came into power after overthrowing the Perot government that caused the university admission scandal, Scarsborough was quickly expanded as the military began to arrest supporters of the previous government, such as business owners who benefited from corruption, government officials and military officers who were hardline supporters of the dreaded President Henry Perot, as well as radical protesters such as Howard Chan. The purge enabled opportunists such as the President's father-in-law Rafael Silva to buy up businesses and assets at low prices from the military government, as it confiscated assets from corrupt tycoons. Over the span of 2 months, Silva's fortune went from 70 million Club Penguin Coins to over 2 billion. This was mostly thanks to his friendly relationship with those running the military government prior to the coup, which also indirectly led to Tulsuoy being exempt from any questioning at all (most "student leaders" who led the protests were picked up for questioning by the Politico-Security Bureau).

The car finally arrives at the infamous prison. Tulsuoy is escorted to Howard's cell, which is tightly cramped and rather unsanitary.

Howard: "We meet again."

Tulsuoy: "Yes."

The sight of the unkempt, bespectacled penguin further enrages Tulsuoy, as he remembers the call that Timothy's parents gave him after he finally perished in the ICU with a collapsed lung. He takes out a pistol that he legally owns and shoots Howard several times until the magazine runs out of ammunition. The PSB agents in the room do not even bulge.

Tulsuoy: "Prisoner Howard Chan attempted to grab your gun. Is that clear?"

PSB agents: "Yes sir!"

The agents went into the cell to dispose of the corpse, which they did by dousing it with gasoline before setting it on fire.

Jonathan Mason takes a look at his watch as he waits outside of his girlfriend Fiona's class for her to be dismissed. He has been waiting for at least 10 minutes now. He dislikes her geography teacher, who always insists that "the bell doesn't dismiss you, I do". Several of her classmates are looking at Jonathan and pointing at him, which eventually made Fiona and the teacher realise his presence as well.

Geography teacher: "Is that the kid who drives a sports car to school every day? Anyway, you're to complete the online quiz by tomorrow and page 64 until 79 of the workbook. Submit it by Monday."

The students let out a collective sigh as they have a math quiz on Monday.

Geography teacher: "You are now dismissed."

As the teacher leaves, several of the students give him the middle finger.

Student 1: "Douchebag!"

Fiona walks out of the classroom and embraces her boyfriend.

Jonathan: "That took a while."

Fiona: "Yeah, he's a dickwag."

Jonathan: "So what's for lunch?"

Fiona: "Goryeoan BBQ?"

Jonathan: "Alright sure."

The two walk to the car park, where they enter his car. It then speeds out of the school.

Fiona: "You should drive a car that is less flashy."

Jonathan: "Why?"

Fiona: "Even the teachers know this is your car."

Jonathan: "I am not afraid of anything."

Fiona: "Not even of your car being stolen?"

Jonathan: "I can assure you, that's the least of my concern."

In just a few minutes, they arrive at the restaurant. There is already a group of students from their school dining there. They ordered some beef and pork bellies. Cabbage kimchi, kongnamul and kimchi pancakes are also served as side dishes. The couple also ordered a bottle of makgeolli (rice wine).

Fiona: "When are you going to bring me to your house?"

Jonathan hesitates to answer it, so he continues drinking the rice wine.

Fiona: "I've already shown you mine, so why don't you show me yours?"

Jonathan: "Your house is simply too impressive. I can't bring you to mine."

Fiona: "It can't be *that* bad. You drive a Chiron for Pete's sake."

Jonathan: "Nothing trumps a 7,000 square feet penthouse on Junxiao Avenue."

Fiona: "Except whatever you will be bringing me to later."

Jonathan: "I ain't bringing you to my house later."

Fiona decides to use the ultimate trick to get her way.

Fiona: "Alright alright, I know I am just a fling to you."

Jonathan: "What? No, you aren't just a fling."

Fiona: "It's obvious that you don't really like me the way I like you."

Jonathan: "Of course I like you."

Fiona: "Then why are you so secretive about your family?"

The Nexonan crown prince sighs. It is time.

Jonathan: "Alright fine, I'll bring you over to my house later."

Just then, Jonathan's twin sisters walk into the restaurant and spot them. They wave back at the twins before the latter approach them.

Jonathan: "What are you two doing here?"

Caroline: "To have lunch, duh."

Charlotte: "You must be Fiona, right?"

Fiona: "Yeah, and you are?"

Charlotte: "I'm Charlotte, and that is my sister Caroline."

Fortunately for Fiona, Charlotte is dressed in a cropped orange blouse and white jeans today, while Caroline is wearing a baby blue sweater. From her observation, the "Munro" siblings probably are not as rich as everyone thinks.

Fiona: "Wanna join us?"

Her boyfriend glares at her, as he intends to have some alone time with her.

Charlotte: "We don't want to disturb you two, so yeah."

Fiona exchanges eye contact with Jonathan. He eventually relents.

Jonathan: "Nah, we insist."

Charlotte: "Why thank you."

Charlotte and Caroline sit next to Fiona and Jonathan, respectively. Fiona decides to prod some information out of the twins.

Fiona: "So what do you like to do in your free time, Caroline?"

The older twin sister, who is more introverted and shier than her younger twin, looks up from her tablet that she carries around to draw on.

Caroline: "Oh, I like to draw and to take pictures."

Fiona: "Can I see some of your works?"

Caroline: "Umm, sure."

Caroline opens her account on PicsGram, which is the most popular photo-sharing social network in Antarctica. It is under another name, which gives Caroline anonymity. She shows her tablet to Fiona, who is surprised by what she sees.

Fiona: "Wow, you have over 800,000 followers on PicsGram?

Caroline: "Yeah."

Fiona: "Your drawings and photos are really amazing. I should follow you."

Caroline: "They are nothing, but thanks."

Jonathan: "Caroline is somehow more popular even though she is introverted as heck and has never shown her face on social media."

Fiona: "Charlotte, can I follow you as well?"

Charlotte: "Yeah, I'll follow you back too."

Several thoughts are now in Fiona's mind as she looks at Charlotte's account. Even though all three of them are really attractive and most students in their school have heard of them, none of them is popular on social media except for Caroline's anonymous account. Caroline has merely 300 followers, while Jonathan has below 200. Meanwhile, Fiona has over 2,000 followers on PicsGram. *Their parents are probably really strict when it comes to controlling their privacy,* she says to herself. She also notices that Charlotte's outfits are styled to attract people's attention, while Caroline's are intended to make her look put together without much effort. Because of that, Caroline's clothes tend to be in muted colours.

Fiona: "You two have really great fashion sense."

Charlotte: "Thanks, you too."

After 1 hour has passed, they have already finished their meal.

Jonathan: "How are you two going to go home?"

Caroline: "Mr. Raymond will pick us up."

*Well they are rich enough to have a chauffeur apparently*, Fiona thinks to herself. Pretty soon, a Volvo S90 arrives to pick them both up. *Ok, maybe not as rich as I thought*, Fiona says to herself again.

Fiona: "I can't wait to go to your house."

Jonathan: "Don't be too surprised."

The supercar drives out of the central business district. As they progress closer to the destination, tall buildings become increasingly absent and fauna becomes more common. Before they realise it, they're surrounded by Archipelagoan-styled mansions, luxury dwellings of more modern designs, detached houses on large parcels of valuable real estate, and embassies, including those from Westion and the United States of Antarctica. It is the most expensive neighbourhood in the country, if not the world.

Fiona: "Damn, do you really live here?"

Jonathan: "Not really, but we're getting there."

They soon reach a plot of elevated land, with no buildings at all around it. The car motors through the road and stops in front of a guard post. There are 5 plain-clothed penguins who are armed with military-grade carbines.

Fiona: "What the fuck?"

The penguins allow the car to pass into the residence upon recognising the crown prince. Fiona sees several watchtowers that are camouflaged in a way that doesn't make them visible from the rest of the neighbourhood. They are soon greeted by the sight of the main residence, which is a 89,250 square feet Neo-Renaissance mini-palace. It is then she realises she wasn't able to see the structure at all before the car went up the hill. Jonathan drives the car into the basement car park, where the Volvo S90 that picked up the 'Munro' twin sisters is also parked. There are roughly 30 parking spots, with 4 of them usually occupied by a Rolls Royce Drophead Coupe, a limited edition Mercedes SLR McLaren, a bulletproof Mercedes AMG G63 and a Honda Accord. Jonathan turns off the engine and faces Fiona, who is too shocked to get out of the car.

Jonathan: "I told you not to be too surprised."

Fiona: "I know, but I didn't know you live in a palace with bodyguards licensed to carry firearms!"

Jonathan: "I mean the Chiron should have given away my wealth by now."

Fiona: "Yeah, but the fact that you and your sisters do not appear to be wearing branded clothes and how all of you can easily pass off as middle class catches me off-guard."

Jonathan: "We try to blend in so that we don't get targeted."

Fiona: "Is that why your parents control your privacy?"

Jonathan: "Well my dad definitely doesn't want people to find out I'm the Crown Prince of Nexon- oops."

Fiona: "WHAT?!?!"

After yet another threesome with his 2 official wives last night, Slender decides to spice things up a bit. He goes to one of his mistresses who lives in a 14 million Nexonan Pounds penthouse on Junxiao Avenue (paid for by the Emperor). The apartment building is located on top of a mall that is entirely built underground. He fucks her before ordering the private in-house chef to cook a meal of Eggs Benedict for them.

Slender: "Are your children doing alright, Stella?"

Mistress: "Don't you mean *our* children?"

Slender: "We don't talk about that."

The mistress sighs after drinking some tea.

Mistress: "Fiona is doing alright. She just won a cheerleading competition."

Slender: "That's awesome. How's Jakeson?"

Mistress: "Don't you mean Jackson?"

Slender facepalms internally. *Fuck, I did the other thing that one should never do.*

Slender: "Yeah, I meant Jackson. My pronunciation's been fucky lately."

Mistress: "Jackson just joined his school's basketball varsity team."

Slender: "That's splendid."

After some customary small talk, the Nexonan Emperor leaves the penthouse apartment before driving away in his Bugatti Type 57SC Atlantic.

Slender: "Alright, where should I go next? Hmm, I might as well go to the house in Cuntington Hills and see if the little runts have damaged anything.

The Emperor then proceeds to drive towards the house that his children Jonathan, Caroline and Charlotte stay in. As he is not in a rush, he drives at a low speed. It is the most relaxed he has felt in a while.

Slender: "Fuck it, I might as well buy some stuff for them."

The Emperor stops at a chocolatier to buy a box of premium hot cocoa for his daughters, as well as some chocolate pralines and truffles. He has also brought some craft stout that the imperial brewery made. Unbeknownst to him, Jonathan's Bugatti speeds past the store as he makes the purchase. After making the purchase, Slender's car arrives at his house 25 minutes later. The plain-clothed Praetorian Guards' commander approaches him.

Commander: "Your Imperial Excellency, Their Imperial Highnesses have all arrived home."

Slender: "Thank you, commander."

Familiar with the house's layout, Slender parks his car in the basement before entering the house. He is first greeted by one of the servants.

Slender: "Do you know where are the kids?"

Servant: "Caroline and Charlotte appear to be in the former's room. Jonathan is in the library with his guest, sir."

Slender is astounded. *I told the fuckers to get my permission before they bring anyone to the house.*

Slender: "Thank you."

He goes upstairs and enters Caroline's room, where the twins are working on an online quiz together.

Charlotte: "Dad! Why are you here?"

Slender: "I just want to see if any of you damage my house or whatever. The last time I came, I found out that you broke a really expensive vase."

Charlotte: "That was Caroline."

Caroline: "Bruh, what the heck?"

Slender: "Well I don't care who broke it. I brought you two some chocolates."

The Emperor gives the boxes of truffles and pralines to the twins, who are overjoyed. They start eating them on the spot, as they are tired of doing the quiz.

Charlotte: "Yay!"

Caroline: "Thanks daddy!"

Slender: "Now tell me, who did Jonathan bring to the house?"

Charlotte: "His girlfriend."

Slender: "Oh, okay."

Caroline: "Why? Are you mad at him for dating?"

Slender: "Nah, I don't care about that. In fact I fuck 10 girls a day when I was his age-"

Caroline: "Dad! I don't want to hear that!"

Slender: "Alright alright, fine. Anyway, I would have shot the kiddo if he brings a rando to my house without my permission. A girlfriend is more permissible."

Charlotte: "It's not your house though. It's ours."

Slender: "Right, like three kids in high school are able to live in a billion dollar CPC palace without their daddy's money. Do not bring anyone to my house without my permission."

The Emperor walks to the library so that he could meet his son's girlfriend. Just as he is about to enter though, he attempts to peek around, only to get the shock of his life when he finally sees his son caressing his illegitimate daughter from the mistress he visited just now. *WHAT THE FUCK?!*, he says under his breath. A while later, Jonathan leaves the room. His father quickly catches up to him.

Slender: "Hey, who the fuck is that in the library?"

Jonathan: "What the heck, dad? That's my girlfriend."

Slender: "Not anymore, because she is your half-sister and you are ending things with her right away."

Jonathan: "What?!"

Slender: "Look, I forgot to tell you about the illegitimate children that I have, son. There are several more in your high school, now that I recall."

Jonathan: "WHY THE HECK IS SHE MY SISTER?!"

Slender: "Because I fucked her mom, duh."

The Emperor shows Jonathan several pictures of all of his illegitimate children. Jonathan becomes more shocked as he scrolls through the pictures.

Jonathan: "What the fuck, I think one of them is Caroline's classmate who has a crush on her."

Slender laughs. He knows his daughter is too good for someone like that.

Slender: "He may have my genes, but based on how his mom described him, Caroline definitely will not like him. You didn't screw Fiona, did you?"

Jonathan hesitates to give an answer.

Slender: "Well hopefully you didn't get her pregnant, or things will be real bad."

Jonathan: "DAD! I USE CONDOMS OKAY!"

Slender: "Alright, just warn your sisters about the illegitimate children."

Jonathan: "Why can't you do it?"

The Emperor feigns looking at his extremely expensive wristwatch, of which only 300 are produced. *Ah, the classic 'I have to yeet now' gesture,* Jonathan says to himself.

Slender: "Whoops, I have to go now. See you soon, but before I go..."

The emperor gives him the beer he brought for him.

Jonathan: "Wow, thanks for the bribe."

Slender ignores his son and leaves the mansion. By now, Jonathan and his sisters are already used to it. Ever since he met Princess Candice of Kush 3 years ago, the Nexonan Emperor has been spending more time with her than with his own children.

## Chapter 4

As he sits in the modern-looking conference room, Cho Dae-jung couldn't help but worry about his troubles. A few days ago, Goryeo's neighbouring nation Zhou tested several intercontinental ballistic missiles off the country's coast. The move sparked fears among Joseonean society that another war with the ginormous socialist state might be on the horizon. As a result, his 2 largest allies, namely the Antarctic President Chuck Grennedy and the Nexonan Emperor Slender, will be meeting him to discuss the issues at hand. If he could manoeuvre this correctly, the country will forget about the banking scandal. His chief of staff, Yun Byung-hoon, puts a bottle of mineral water on the table for his boss.

Yun: "Sir, what should we do if the media ever finds out about the crisis?"

The Goryeoan president remains silent for a while. Eventually he comes up with an answer to his subordinate's question.

Cho: "Send my daughter to Nexon."

Yun: "What?"

Cho: "I'll have her pretend to be the daughter of the Goryeoan ambassador there."

Yun: "You should inform Emperor Slender about it beforehand then."

Cho: "I know what to do. I am not stupid."

The foreign leaders are soon escorted into the room by their bodyguards. They sit at the chairs closest to President Cho.

Cho: "As you know, tensions in Asiapelago are at an all-time high because of Zhou's recent missile tests. Therefore, my country would like your approval to abolish all limitations on our missile range."

Signed after the end of the First Goryeo-Zhou War, the Goryeo Missile Range Treaty gives the country protection under the USA's "nuclear umbrella". Initially, Goryeo would only be allowed to possess and develop ballistic missiles with a maximum range of 300 km. However, this was subsequently revised to 900 km a few years ago. Ever since then, Goryeoan presidents have wanted to abolish the limits for good in order to be well-equipped against the Zhouese menace.

Chuck: "We will think about it."

*It is time to show my deck*, Cho says to himself.

Cho: "Well it'd be better to not have to resort to shredding Antarctic soldiers' lives if a war ever breaks out. A war could be easily deterred if we have proper deterrents in place, such as ballistic missiles that are capable of reaching Luojing."

Slender: "Also, the Zhouese know you'll be too ball-less to use nuclear weapons. They will still run over the country and expect you to not use them."

Chuck: "Alright fine, scrap the goddamn range limits."

It is now time for Cho to pull his next move. He will get both of his allies to increase their military aid to him as much as possible.

Cho: "Now that we have that out of the way, let's talk about the prospect of increasing military assistance to my country."

Slender, eager to undermine Antarctic influence in the Goryeoan peninsula, decides to give him an insane amount of money.

Slender: "Alright, I'll offer roughly 1.1 billion CPC in military equipment to you."

Chuck: "I will give you 1.5 billion CPC."

The two world leaders begin trying to outdo each other to see who can give the country the most military aid. By the time they agree on a final amount, the Republic of Goryeo will be given a total of 4.7 billion CPC in military equipment, free of charge.

Cho: "That's splendid then. The defence ministry will send the contracts listing out our orders to your respective departments in a week."

The trio hear notifications on their smartphones all of a sudden. They look at it and become visibly shocked - an airplane that the Westioner President Stanley Tulsuoy was on board of has just crashed.

After a long night out, Nick Mason returns back to his house. Roslyn is waiting on the couch when he enters the living room.

Roslyn: "Where have you been?"

Nick: "Oh, I had dinner with Vivian and then watched a movie with her."

Roslyn: "Did you also fuck her in your car?"

Nick is perplexed.

Nick: "Excuse me?!"

Roslyn: "Sally said that you had sex with her in your car."

Nick: "What, no."

It is apparent to Nick that Roslyn is beginning to feel jealous of his cousin, with whom Nick has been going out with recently. He also realises that Sally and Jacqueline probably conspired with each other to spread false rumours about Nick and Vivian to Roslyn in order to make her jealous, as payback for Nick "displacing the two white-collar professionals with a mere actress". Even though Nick tries to keep the dynamics in the household as equal as possible, he has unknowingly lost all control over the equilibrium after Roslyn moved into the house with him. While he was somehow able to divert love and attention to Sally Tang and Jacquenling Chung rather equally, Roslyn got over 60% of Nick's attention, while the others only got 20% of it. However, this too is changing, as Nick has been spending more time with Vivian.

Sally and Jacqueline then waddle out of their respective rooms into the living room.

Sally: "Are you free this Friday?"

Nick: "Why?"

Jacqueline: "Let's go on a trip to the Melodeeves together."

Nick: "Wait, do you mean the islands?"

Sally: "Yeah, the three of us figured that since you have been spending less time with us, we should do something together for once."

Nick quickly realises what is going on. All three of them are obviously feeling threatened by his relationship with his cousin, which is why they planned a trip with him.

Nick: "What resort are we staying in?"

Roslyn: "Soreva Inaj."

Nick: "Fuck, that's gonna bleed my wallet dry."

Jacqueline: "I thought you've always wanted to go there."

The banker sighs.

Nick: "Alright, remember to pack your bags by Friday."

Nicholas's phone starts vibrating. It is his grandfather.

Daniel: "Nicky, I need to see you right away at my house!"

The old man hangs up abruptly. Nicholas sighs.

Roslyn: "What's wrong?"

Nicholas: "The old bastard wants to see me in his house right away."

The banker gets into his car and starts driving to what is arguably the most expensive residence in Honk Gong. Thankfully, his neighbourhood is relatively close to Daniel's. A while later, he arrives and enters the house. Nick is led by the butler to a reception room, where Daniel and Ben are seated.

Daniel: "Nicky boy, short the Silva Corporation's stocks."

Nick: "Umm, why?"

Daniel: "Something bad will happen to Rafael de Silva soon. Not only will it cause the company's stock price to tumble down, but it will also fuck over its proposed acquisition of FakChoy. It's gonna be a good year for me."

Nick: "What happened?"

Daniel: "Ben here is a genius. He has some inside men working in the fucker's private hangar. We gave them the order to rig his plane."

Nick is stunned by what he had just heard. *Did the old fart really just try to have his archrival killed?*

Stanley Tulsuoy's father-in-law lives in one of the grandest mansions in Westion, if not the grandest. The eclectic style mansion has always awed the president ever since he first met Rafael de Silva after the latter became a billionaire. Thanks to his connections to the interim military government at the time, he was given a selection of "choice-mansions" which were seized from businessmen affiliated with the corrupt Perot regime. The house was supposedly the ancestral home of Perot's wealthiest political donor, who was the country's top landlord at the time. According to Westioner high society lore, the owner's wife (a princess from Nexon, who would be Emperor Slender's first cousin once removed) married him because his house "is the only one befitting Nexonan royalty" in the country.

*Unfortunately, this is not something that I'd live in, ever*, Tulsuoy remarks to himself as he sits in one of the stylishly decorated reception rooms, echoing a common sentiment shared by all Westioner presidents. All of them have lived in ostensibly humble looking black-and-white bungalows, rather than living in the stately Government House. Unbeknownst to many foreign guests who praise the Westioner presidents' "frugal lifestyles", each of these bungalows is considered to be the ultimate status symbols in the country. Built by the island's elite when it was first established, they are colonial-style bungalows that are around 4,000-8,000 square feet large on plots of land ranging from 40,000 to 60,000 square feet large. Costing an average of 34 million CPC, not only does one have to be exceedingly wealthy, but sellers often scrutinise prospective buyers' background and rarely sell to those who are not considered to be part of Westioner fine society. Despite coming from a middle class background, Tulsuoy was given his house by none other than Raul de Silva. The man soon shows up in the reception hall in a pinstripe suit and looking as lively as ever.

Rafael: "Stan, I see you've already made yourself comfortable."

Stanley: "Not really, I have to remind myself not to be too comfy in such a venerable looking house or risk trashing it."

Rafael: "Come on, it'll be yours one day. Make yourself at home!"

Stanley: "Please, Rafael, you know I can't live up to this house's prestige."

Rafael sits down on the nearest sofa to the president. He lights up a cigar and takes a puff before looking at his son-in-law straight in his eyes.

Rafael: "Look, son, this will be yours whether you like it or not. I've already given you the black-and-white bungalow that you currently live in."

Stanley: "I really appreciated the wedding gift. I still do."

Rafael: "And consider this to be my parting gift for you."

Stanley: "Come on Rafael, don't talk about death right now."

Rafael: "Lad, death is inevitable. All of us have to confront it someday, so I don't see why it's taboo to talk about it."

Stanley: "This house is just too much for me."

Rafael shakes his head in slight annoyance.

Rafael: "I've given you my ancestral home and over 8 billion CPC worth of shares in my business empire. A palatial residence isn't going to change the equation that much."

Stanley: "This house just looks too formal for me."

Rafael: "You young people have it easy. Back in my day, I had to bust my ass in order to convince my father to give me the bungalow you currently live in. I had to compete with others for a prestigious scholarship and become the youngest ever medical graduate in the National University of Westion, while getting first class honours and getting into the Dean's list, in order to get him to give it to me. Of course, you are aware that I later abandoned medicine because my true passion is in business, just like you."

Stanley: "Yeah I am aware of that, boomer."

The two burst into laughter about the boomer remark.

Stanley: "By the way, I heard that you purchased the *old* government house, right?"

Rafael: "Yeah, I intend to turn it into a hotel."

Stanley: "Your current house looks more suitable as a hotel, to be honest."

Rafael: "Why would I turn my house into a hotel-"

The smart business mogul stops before realising what Tulsuoy is implying.

Rafael: "Oh, I get it. You don't want my house because it's too stuffy for you. Instead, you want the cozier Government House."

Stanley: "Well I have been to the old Government House. It looks more like a home than a palace, which I honestly prefer."

Rafael: "I can give it to you right away."

Stanley: "Wait, what? What about your hotel proposal?"

Rafael: "According to my analysts, at most the hotel will only barely break even. It is merely a trophy property to me that I bought for the sake of prestige. You can have it."

Stanley: "Well maybe when my family's larger."

Rafael: "Alright, it's settled then. I'll transfer ownership to you."

Stanley: "Hang on, it is classified as a commercial property though. I can't just live in it."

Rafael facepalms.

Rafael: "You are *the president*. Just have your men change the category and then move Yvonne and the kids into their new home."

Stanley: "Damnit, I forgot the main purpose of my visit just now."

Rafael: "What's that?"

Stanley: "Can I borrow your jet to get to the world leaders' meeting in Hanseong, Joseon? The presidential jet is currently being repaired after the engine unexpectedly failed."

Rafael: "Sure, no biggie."

To the mere mortals of Antarctica, the next few days are filled with shocking news. The first headline they saw was about a plane that the Westioner president was on board of crashed into Westion's jungles while on its way to the Goryeoan capital of Hanseong. 13 hours later, Westioner military personnel who were part of the search effort found the Westioner president, who suffered from minor injuries in his legs. There was no other survivor in the crash.

For Slender's kids, however, things are more normal. Ever since breaking up with Fiona, Jonathan Mason has been feeling desolate. His mind has in a state of blankness. Sitting in the cafeteria with his sisters, he stares mindlessly into the background. Eventually his sisters notice his idle staring and become worried.

Caroline: "Is everything alright?"

Jonathan seemingly snaps out of his trance.

Jonathan: "Huh? Yeah, I am alright..."

Charlotte: "Cheer up, there are many other prospective girls out there for you."

Jonathan: "I don't know. Fiona was one of the few girls I've ever actually liked, but then it turns out she's our half-sister."

Charlotte: "Does she even know about that part?"

Jonathan: "No, dad told me not to tell her at all cost."

There was a pause for a while, before Jonathan starts speaking again.

Jonathan: "Are you two interested in dating anyone at all?"

Charlotte: "Actually I am, but he seems to be avoiding me recently for some reason."

Jonathan: "Who is he?"

Charlotte: "David Smith."

Caroline: "Oh, he's your classmate isn't he?"

Charlotte: "Yeah but he seems not to be too eager with talking to me recently."

Unbeknownst to all of the "Munros", Fiona told several of her friends about Jonathan's house after their breakup. They, in turn, told people they knew about it, even sharing pictures of the house that Fiona secretly took. However, when they tried to find it on a satellite map, it was nowhere to be seen. In the past, they suspected that the "Munros" were the children of a prominent government/military official or a diplomat. However, the new rumours were that they could be related to the Nexonan imperial family itself. Even though Fiona told her friends that Jonathan blew his cover as the crown prince of Nexon, they rationalised that she was probably exaggerating and didn't believe that part of the story.

Jonathan: "Actually, now that you mention it, I have been experiencing the same thing as well. People seem to be afraid of talking to me."

Charlotte: "Caroline, did you feel anything?"

The elder twin sister stops doodling on her drawing tablet and looks at the two.

Caroline: "Feel what?"

Jonathan: "Do you feel that students are more reluctant to speak to you lately?

Caroline: "Actually, I do notice a difference lately. Random guys would approach me in the past and try to talk to me even if I was busy drawing, but that doesn't happen anymore lately."

To the ordinary students, Caroline's "true identity" is perhaps the most surprising of the three siblings. As the less well-known twin sister, she doesn't really carry an "aura of elegance" with her. Because of that, unlike Jonathan and Charlotte, horny boys would initially think that she is a girl who they could easily pursue as a romantic interest. However, in reality, Charlotte is more open than her elder sister and more likely to talk to strangers, while Caroline would respond halfheartedly to them. Fiona's revelations changed everything however, as male students begin to view her as the "hardest" girl to date in the entire school. Caroline's half-assed replies would make them doubt themselves and lead to them thinking that they were not good enough for her, especially given her status. In reality, she is only interested in Andrew Solomon.

Just then, a student approaches the trio. She appears to be an East Asiapelagoan female who wears a pair of round frames and has monolids on both of her eyes. She has little to no makeup on her face, which doesn't deter Jonathan and his sisters from thinking that she looks cute.

Student: "Hey excuse me, can you guys help me out with something?"

Jonathan: "Sure, how can I help you?"

Student: "Do you happen to know where is Room 3-4-01?"

Jonathan: "Yeah, are you going to Miss Fitzgerald's geography class?"

The student appears to be rather surprised.

Student: "Yeah! Are you in the same class?"

Jonathan: "Of course, but class will be starting in an hour, so why don't you join us?"

The student takes the vacant seat right beside Jonathan. His twin sisters look at each other and give the same stupid smile, which Jonathan manages to catch a glimpse of. *Are you thinking what I'm thinking?*, the twins said to each other subconsciously.

Charlotte: "So, where did you come from?"

Student: "My name is Jo-jo. I am from the Republic of Goryeo."

The three siblings' assumption is now confirmed. Charlotte extends her flipper to the new kid and points at Caroline with her other flipper.

Charlotte: "I am Charlotte, this is my twin sister Caroline."

Jo-jo greets Charlotte and Caroline with a nod. She then looks at Jonathan, who instantly freezes up.

Jonathan: "I-I am Jonathan. I am their elder brother."

Jo-jo herself also appears to be stunned. She locks eyes with him for a while before nodding.

Jo-jo: "Nice to meet you too."

Jonathan: "Do we happen to have any other classes in common?"

Jo-jo: "I don't know, let me check my timetable."

The two pull out their phones to check their classes. The twins begin to leave the store one by one to give the two some space together.

Gwenaëlle Schaeffer looks flustered as she searches for Room 3-4-01. *Cet endroit est un labyrinthe!*, she complains about the school's layout as she continues to find her classroom. Students in Kalieth High look at her in awe as she waddles around the compound. She is easily one of the prettiest girls they have ever seen.

Student 1: "Who is *that*?"

Student 2: "I heard her dad is the newly appointed Francterrean ambassador to Nexon."

Soon enough, she manages to find Room 3-04-01, which is on the 4th floor of Building 3. Noticing that the teacher is already in the classroom, she knocks on it before entering. As soon as she makes her entrance, most students in the classroom are staring at her.

Miss Fitzgerald: "Ah, this is the other transfer student that I mentioned a while ago. Please introduce yourself."

Gwen: "Bonjour, my name is Gwenaëlle Schaeffer but you can just call me Gwen. I am from Francterre."

The male students in the classroom keep exchanging looks with each other. *Who the fuck is that?*, is audibly heard in the room. The teacher points at an empty seat beside a male penguin with white feathers.

Miss Fitzgerald: "You can sit right next to Jonathan Munro over there, Gwen."

Gwen: "Thank you so much."

As she approaches the seat, she sees the male penguin chatting with the girl seated behind him. The Goryeoan-looking girl who looks visibly tanned is familiar to her. By the time she is in front of the two, Jonathan and Jo-jo are also staring at her in curiosity. The Goryeoan transfer student looks shocked when she first sees Gwen.

Gwen: "Hi, nice to meet you."

She greets Jonathan before placing a kiss on each of his cheek. Despite being surprised by the overtly physical greeting since Nexonans don't greet others with kisses, he reciprocates the favour and kisses her cheeks as well. Jo-jo looks at them with a humourous smile, albeit she is fuming in reality.

Jonathan: "Hey, I am Jonathan. You must be the new Francterrean student?"

Gwen: "Yeah. It looks like I got a warm welcome."

Jonathan: "That's great, Jo-jo here said the same thing not long ago."

There is an awkward pause, before Jonathan realises he hasn't introduced his newfound Goryeoan friend to her yet.

Jonathan: "She's a transfer student from Goryeo."

The two transfer students greet each other in the same way Gwen greets Jonathan. Even though Jonathan couldn't feel it, there's tension boiling in the room. As soon as class is dismissed, Jo-jo approaches Gwen and takes her to a secluded area.

Jo-jo: "What are *you* doing here?"

Gwen: "No, what are *you* doing here?"

Jo-jo: "No, I asked first."

Gwen: "Fine, my father was promoted to the ambassador to Nexon a few days ago. Now, why is the Goryeoan president's daughter doing in a Nexonan school?"

Jo-jo: "The hell do I know?! I am just following his order!"

There is a pause, before the two start laughing.

Gwen: "We're in such a small world!"

Jo-jo: "I know, right? I wasn't expecting to meet you 2 years after *that* party."

Gwen: "Yeah, I remember how my dad insulted yours by saying that kimchi is sub-par."

Jo-jo: "That's why he deserves having makgeolli spilt on him by my dad."

Gwen: "At least no Francterrean wine was wasted in the process."

The two erupt into laughter before continuing their small talk while walking to the next class.

The Nexonan Emperor himself finds himself in an auction house in Snowdon, where several auctions to sell off luxury jewels, branded handbags, artworks and watches are being held for 4 consecutive days. As one of the top bidders, he is seated in a private bidding room with Empress Nicole and Princess Candice. These private rooms are located on the second floor of the building, giving the occupants a good view of the item being auctioned off. It is through a computer that the bidder in each room relays their bid to the auctioneer. Several Praetorian guards are also in the room to protect Slender. The item currently being auctioned off is a rather exquisite handbag. The starting bid is 80,000 CPC.

Slender: "Do you want it, Nicole?"

Nicole: "I already have something like that."

Slender: "Candice?"

Candice: "Yes!"

The monarch smiles at the girl with blonde hair that also has pink ends. He submits his bid via the computer.

Auctioneer: "I have a bid for 120,000 CPC! Do we have something higher?"

Slender: "Welp looks like you'll be getting it."

Candice: "Fabulous!"

Auctioneer: "I have a bid for 170,000 CPC! Do we have a higher offer?"

Candice: "What the-"

Slender: "Philippe Tomas. It must be him."

Philippe Tomas is the incumbent president of New Delphis, which is a rather sizable country in Antarctica bordering Polaris and the USA. The country is always deemed by international media to be a 'mafia state' and 'oligarchy', due to the rampancy of organised crime in the state. He is also believed to have various mistresses, which explains why Slender realises his rival is him.

Nicole: "What if we give an insanely high bid?"

Slender: "Fuck it, Candice do you really want it?"

Candice: "I mean I like how-"

Before the 2nd wife could even get to the part where she says she doesn't like it too much, Slender submits a 300,000 CPC bid for the bag. Nicole rolls her eyes at her own husband's rather extravagant spending.

Auctioneer: "I have a bid for 300,000. Is anyone willing to bid higher?"

Slender: "Knowing that Tomas is not devoted to any particular mistress, he's not likely to bid higher."

A penguin approaches the trio.

Penguin: "Your Majesty, you're only down to 9,700,000 CPC as of now. Would you like to have the funds replenished?"

Slender: "Sure, give me the phone to the central bank."

The servant gives the emperor a phone, which is connected to the Imperial Bank of Nexon on the other side. The IBN is the central bank of the country.

Slender: "I'd like to have 150 million CPC transferred to my auction account, thanks."

Candice looks at her friend Nicole in amazement.

Candice: "Wow, my dad does the same thing whenever he needs some money, but he never transferred so much money to his own account."

Nicole: "Honestly, that's chump change for him."

Just then, Slender receives a video call from his son. He answers it.

Slender: "Yes?"

Jonathan: "Look, there are 2 transfer students in my class for some reason. I know you made that arrangement, who are they?"

Slender: "The dark-looking one with squinty eyes is the Goryeoan president's daughter, but she is posing as the daughter of a random Goryeoan diplomat instead. The one that I would have fucked if I were you is the Francterrean ambassador's daughter."

Jonathan looks at his dad with disgust, as does Candice with some shock. Nicole is rather nonchalant about what he had just said. Instead, she was thinking about a different matter altogether. "Pretty sure that Jo-jo gal is disguised as the Goryeoan *ambassador*s daughter instead of a *random* diplomat's," she said to herself.

Jonathan: "What the heck?!"

Slender: "Well I don't know who you'll end up liking, but take good care of them."

The emperor ends the video call, as he thinks he had already answered his son's question. It is indeed true that he had the 2 foreigners placed in Jonathan's class, but the only reason he did that is because he wanted the crown prince to forget about dating any of his potential half-sisters.

"Ugh...where am I?"

Stanley Tulsuoy's vision slowly recovers. The first thing he sees is the ceiling. As he attempts to get up, someone helps him up. He turns to the person, revealing herself to be his wife Yvonne. After he gets up, she gives him a warm embrace.

Yvonne: "You have finally woken up!"

Stanley: "How long has it been?"

Yvonne: "You were unconscious for only 2 days. The doctor said that you are alright aside from some minor injuries."

Stanley: "What happened to Gavin?"

The first lady hesitates to answer. Gavin, who is the president's private secretary, and every other passenger and crew on the flight have perished.

Yvonne: "You are the only survivor."

Stanley: "Hell, that sucks."

Tears begin to drip down from his eyes. He considers Gavin and the bodyguards who accompanied him on the flight to be his close friends, even though many of them only regard the president as their superior in a professional capacity and nothing more.

Yvonne: "It's alright. What's most important is that you are well and alive. The country needs you."

Stanley: "I suppose. Any idea what caused the plane to go down?"

Yvonne: "At first we thought it was due to mechanical failure, however we found out that someone working in my dad's hangar attempted to rig the plane."

At first, the president feels confused. Upon realising that someone attempted to assassinate him, he begins to feel angry.

Stanley: "Who the fuck did that?!"

Yvonne: "We're not sure yet, but it could be people who hate you."

The president thinks for a while. He suddenly recalls the PSB's investigation on the country's top drug traffickers.

Stanley: "Must be the fucking drug lords!"

Yvonne: "What drug lords?"

Stanley: "Remember the time I told you about Gamarra Holdings? Well there are other companies being investigated as well. Perhaps some of them banded together and tried to kill the goddamn President!"

Yvonne: "Wait, you're thinking that dad tried to have you killed?"

Stanley ponders for a while. If he tells his wife what he actually thought, a rift might result in their marriage. On the other hand, he could try to change the topic.

Stanley: "What if the bomb isn't actually intended for me, but for dad? Does dad have any rival?"

Yvonne: "Now that you mention it, he does."

Stanley: "Who is it?

Yvonne: "There's an old-money family from Honk Gong that dislikes him because they're also interested in acquiring FakChoy Entertainment."

Stanley: "Huh?"

Yvonne: "The Mason family. They are a Puffish family that has been in Honk Gong for over a century now. Their collective business interests are known as the Mason group. Said conglomerate's executive chairman is Daniel Mason, while the company president is Benedict Mason. One of their relatives who carries on the surname despite being abandoned by the family is the Emperor of Nexon, while another member with closer relations is the CEO of the Orient Banking Group."

Tulsuoy suddenly remembers how smart his wife actually is. After all, she held the record for having the highest score in the country's qualifying examination to become barristers for over 12 years.

Stanley: "Alright, get James Cavanaugh to visit me, pronto."

## Chapter 5

If flexing over 130 million CPC on buying auctioned luxuries isn't enough, Slender does yet another thing to infuriate the armchair republicans and socialists around the world. It all starts when he is taking a stroll in his palace's gardens with Nicole.

Slender: "To be honest, sometimes I wonder how I manage to end up wearing this crown."

Nicole: "You mean how your maternal granddad somehow selected you?"

Slender: "Yeah. As you know, my father used to be a heir to the Asiapelagoan conglomerate now known as the Mason Group. When he married my mother, who later turned out to be a long-lost daughter of my predecessor, Daniel Mason was so infuriated because my dad didn't marry the daughter of another tai-pan. Because of that, he disinherited him. Later on, my dad remained as a senior civil servant in Honk Gong, before he got killed over a business dispute. My mom then took me to Nexon, where I lived with my maternal grandfather before he made me his successor."

Nicole: "At least what was initially inauspicious somehow turned out well for you."

Slender: "That wasn't really the hardest part yet."

Nicole: "Are you talking about DIR?"

Slender: "Yes. If I did not give the order to have the army intervene, my head would've ended up on a pike."

Both penguins remember the implementation of *direct imperial rule*. Nicole remembers the streets being eerily quiet the day after DIR. As someone hailing from an upper-middle class family, she avoided witnessing any bloodshed and was sheltered from unrest. Meanwhile, Slender remembers watching from his palace with a pair of binoculars as army tanks ran over protesters and his soldiers gunned down those disobedient subjects. Later on, he even boarded a military helicopter just to gun down several protesters with a machine gun.

Slender: "You know, I've always felt the urge to fuck the paternal side of the family over. Daniel, Benedict, everyone."

Nicole: "I don't think that's wise, *darling*."

Slender: "Not for now, but I'll wait for an opportunity to present itself."

Just then, the Emperor's phone starts ringing. He picks it up.

Slender: "Yes?"

Jonathan: "I have some bad news."

Slender: "What?"

Jonathan: "Some guy has been following Charlotte around at school."

Slender: "WHAT?! What is his name?"

Jonathan: "Tobias Hewitt. At first he claimed to be in love with her, but after the rumours spread about our background, he started telling her to run away with him *from the oppressive palace*."

Slender: "WHAT?!?!"

Jonathan: "Can you at least care about your daughter and do something about it?"

Slender: "I will, bye."

The emperor hangs up. Steam is blowing out of his ears. He quickly runs back into the palace, forcing his empress to give chase. He gets to his office, where he issues an order to have Tobias Hewitt apprehended.

The next day, Charlotte and Caroline are relaxing on the benches at the school's small park. The younger sister is busy preparing for her history quiz later that day when Tobias approaches her again.

Tobias: "Hi Charlotte, you look as beautiful as ever."

The twins attempt to ignore him. Instead he decides to sit in the gap between the twins.

Caroline: "Hey! You bumped into me and ruined my drawing!"

Tobias: "You are a spoilt royal anyway! Just buy another million CPC drawing! Can't you be like Charlotte who is so humble and warm?"

Caroline slowly puts her tablet away. What follows next is unexpected by either of them. She punches Tobias straight on the beak, forcing him off the bench.

Caroline: "Don't insult my passion, dick."

The older twin sister angrily storms off, followed by Charlotte who is still confused by what has just transpired. As they leave, they see some uniformed soldiers entering the park. If everyone in the area didn't pay attention to Caroline punching Tobias, they are certainly paying attention now. The soldiers surround themselves around Tobias.

Soldier 1: "Under the provisions of Direct Imperial Rule, you are hereby under arrest. We will be taking you into custody."

Tobias: "Seriously?!"

Soldier 2: "Yes, now move!"

Tobias: "All that I did was trying to convince Charlotte that she should leave her oppressive father!"

The soldiers know that he would say something like that, especially after bugging his private messages. In fact, the emperor gave them the order to shoot him if he says something like that. To everyone's horror, the soldiers shoot him several times with their automatic rifles before dragging his corpse out of the school.

*General Oh Boon Seng takes a puff from his cigarette as he listens to Rafael de Silva's proposal. Ever since the overthrow of Henry Perot 3 years ago, Oh has been the Chairman of the National Governance Council, which is an interim government comprising of fellow military officers who assisted him in the coup. They are aware that the Westioners and the international community will not tolerate the country being permanently ruled by a junta, yet the generals wanted to find a way to keep their wealth and influence after having tasted the former. Having promised that their work would be finished in 5 years, time is running out for the generals.*

*Rafael: "My plan is to set up some of the demonstration leaders as part of the future elite. That way, the world will think there are reforms."*

*Boon Seng: "I don't know, some of them are rather radical, such as Howard Chan."*

*Rafael: "I am thinking about moderates, like Stanley Tulsuoy."*

*The general chuckles. He should have seen that coming.*

*Boon Seng: "So you want your son-in-law to rule the country?"*

*Rafael: "It could work, depending on how he does his job. We can start by giving him a government job."*

*Boon Seng: "Isn't he working for an investment bank now?"*

*Rafael: "So you do keep tabs on him after all."*

*Boon Seng: "Never underestimate the Special Branch."*

*The two laugh.*

*Rafael: "We can start off by getting him to run for Parliament in the upcoming general election."*

*The general ponders for a while.*

*Boon Seng: "I could see it working out. The voters will love him because of his history, but isn't he working for a bank at the moment?"*

*Rafael: "Since when has that ever been a problem for our MPs?"*

*Boon Seng: "Well obviously not. Now, where does that leave me when we dissolve the council?"*

*Rafael: "You can become the CEO of Gamarra Holdings."*

*Boon Seng: "You mean the shipping business?"*

*Rafael: "Yes, and I know it is the perfect cover for your side business."*

*It is then that Boon Seng remembers who is the true power in the country. Mixed Archipelagoans, or more specifically Archipelagoans from Castilla and Lisboagal who inter-married with Zhouese immigrants like the military ruler's ancestors, will always be the elite old-monied class of Westion despite the so-called 'Students' Revolution'. Despite being nominally the most powerful penguin in the country and the first among equals, Boon Seng is aware that at any moment, his peers could opt to overthrow him when given the prompt to do so by the Westioner elite, personified by Rafael de Silva. Only a penguin with as many connections and allies like him will be aware that the most powerful Westioner at the moment is involved in drug trafficking. The most powerful penguin in Westion is the owner of the Silva Corporation, which controls a significant portion of the economy, and he has never held a government position in his life.*

*To Rafael, integrating Stanley Tulsuoy into the elite has nothing to perpetuating racial dominance. Instead, his ambitions are much grander. Even though the de Silva family is the wealthiest old-monied family by now, he wants to increase his prestige to a further level. He wants the family to be known as the country's* presidential dynasty*, with Tulsuoy being the first president coming from the family (even if he does not belong to it at birth or if he does not carry the same surname). To ensure that his grandchildren and future descendants will follow the same path as his son-in-law, Rafael intends to shape the young penguin with a set of 'old-money' values that the future president will pass on to his own children and vice versa. It will be a process that runs on autopilot even after his death, and it will forever cement his legacy as the true founder of the family from which the country's presidents and highest officials will come from in the future.*

*Boon Seng: "Of course. I'll discuss the idea with the council members.*

*Rafael: "Thank you for seeing the logic behind my proposal."*

*The two shake hands before the businessman leaves the general's office.*

After reminiscing about the conversation he had, Boon Seng takes a look at the antique clock. The clock hands seem to increase its speed in tandem with his heartbeat. The effects of the pill are kicking in. Forewarned that Tulsuoy thinks he is responsible for nearly having him assassinated, he knows the president had sent a squad of Special Branch officers to arrest him. However, he knows that if he is captured, he will be forced to testify against Yvonne Xavieria de Silva, who is his secret partner in the drug trafficking trade rather than Raul de Silva himself. He will also be forced to testify against Rafael, because the billionaire is technically an accomplice to his trafficking activities by giving him the ships for his operations. Even then, he knows the de Silva family will arrange for an accident to happen if he is indeed captured.

What is more important to him than his death is that if either the first lady or the billionaire is indicted, then Tulsuoy will likely lose a lot of support among the Westioner electorate. All of his plans to usher a new elite class in the country will fail, and the country's youngsters might end up on the streets again. To him, stability is paramount, and he has chosen to sacrifice himself than to witness all of his plans unraveling.

26 hours later, a group of Special Branch field agents found the former general slouched on his rattan armchair. There was foam in his mouth, with no indication of heartbeat and breathing. He was promptly taken to the mortuary where an autopsy confirmed that he had ingested cyanide.

As a licensed pilot, Emperor Slender would occasionally enjoy flying his private jet to his destination. Often on these trips, he would enjoy having sex while piloting the plane. Princess Candice moans in pleasure as her consort thrusts inside of her. She wraps her flippers around the emperor's neck.

Slender: "How do you like it?"

Candice: "O-oh my gosh, t-this...is fun!"

The monarch grins as he intensifies his move. Before they know it, they have safely landed at South Pole City's international airport. The Nexonan emperor is supposed to attend a meeting with the United Antarctic Nations. He is promptly chauffeured to the headquarters of the UAN, where he is surprisingly one of the earliest heads of state to arrive. One of the faces he saw is President Stanley Tulsuoy, who is chatting with the Margatian prime minister and a young girl in one of the lounges. He approaches them with his retinue of assistants and bodyguards.

Slender: "Hello there."

The 2 turn their heads towards him and greet him.

Tulsuoy: "Do you know the agenda for the meeting, considering that you head one of the permanent members of the security council?"

Slender: "That, I am not aware of, why?"

The Margatian prime minister, Loong Lee, offers his insight.

Loong Lee: "I heard through the grapevines that they are proposing a condemnation motion."

Slender: "Towards whom?"

Loong Lee: "I am not certain about that, but it's for rights abuses."

Slender knows for certain that it is a motion to condemn him for ordering Tobias's execution. In the emperor's opinion, he did nothing wrong as it is well within his prerogative under *direct imperial rule* to issue a death warrant for anyone in the country, as well as for Nexonan nationals overseas. Nevertheless, he decides to feign ignorance. The 2 world leaders in front of him reminds him of the plan that he had concocted while flying to the Antarctic capital.

Slender: "This reminds me. I will be hosting a party in my residence and both of you are invited. Do feel free to bring your relatives and friends along."

Loong Lee: "How many guests can we bring?"

Slender: "5 at most."

Tulsuoy: "When is it?"

Slender: "One month later. Once the date has been finalised, I'll send the invitations out to all of you."

Loong Lee: "Alright, sure."

The Nexonan emperor quickly spots the Antarctic president Chuck Grennedy speaking to the Joseonean president Cho Dae-jung. He approaches them to make some small talk.

Slender: "Good afternoon, gentlemen."

Cho: "Your majesty."

Slender: "Any idea what the motion today is about?"

The Antarctic president, still salty that the Nexonan emperor tried to outspend him when it came to giving the Republic of Joseon military aid, takes the opportunity to throw shade at him, although it's in good fun since the two countries are historical allies.

Grennedy: "From rumors, I heard it is directed towards an extremely oppressive dictatorship known as the Empire of Nexon."

Slender: "Any idea who is behind it?"

Cho: "My sources say it is the Penguins' Republic of Zhou."

Slender: "Ah yes, of course the enemy of the country that I am providing military aid to will try to condemn me. By the way, would you two like to go to a party of mine next month."

Cho: "Of course."

Grennedy: "I'll have to think about it, but if I can't make it, I'll be sure to send the vice president instead."

Slender: "Alright cool, I'll send out the official invitations once I've come up with the exact date."

As 30 minutes pass, the monarch walks around the building and starts inviting every single world leader that is remotely friendly to him, except for those that are outright hostile to him. Eventually, the heads of state and representatives are asked to enter the main audience hall, where the motion to condemn Nexon is to be brought forward. The Zhouese premier，who is the second most powerful government official in Zhou, starts playing a video for all of the representatives.

Battalions of armed penguins in Nexonan military uniform were shown marching on the streets of Nexon City. Audible gunfire pierced through the atmosphere as penguins were shown being restrained and beaten up by soldiers. Soldiers were recorded trying to cut off the heads of those they shot with machetes, in order to validate the identities of troublemakers. The scene then switched to a montage of tanks and soldiers surrounding the Parliament building, where the rebellious Nexonan chancellor at the time was holding a sit-in demonstration with most Members of Parliament. The tanks started firing incendiary rounds at the building, while the soldiers threw incendiary grenades and fired flamethrowers at the majestic building.

**It was the Nexonan autocrat's wish that his servants die slow and painful deaths**, the text showed on the screen.

Several MPs were shown attempting to jump off the building to avoid being burned alive. However, the military had prepared life nets around the building so that they would be captured alive. The video then depicted the live decapitations of the rebellious MPs who were captured. Paramedics were then shown carrying away the corpse of former Chancellor Anwar Razak, who was the penultimate head of government before he fled Nexon with over 700 million CPC he had embezzled from the Nexonan emperor, out of his South Pole City townhouse.

*This is the Lord of Evil,* the video reads before it ends.

The heads of state watch at the video solemnly. On one hand, most of them think this is Zhouese propaganda to defame Slender and that Slender was too young to be responsible for these atrocities at the time. On the other, they couldn't help but wonder if he is complicit in one way or another. As it ends, the Nexonan Emperor laughs coldly.

Slender: "Vetoed, next."

## Chapter 6

Jo-jo and Jonathan exit the school after school had ended for them. While suspicions that the Munro siblings were extremely powerful became stronger in the past few weeks, nobody had any concrete proof that they were actually members of the imperial family yet. Because of that, Cho Jo-jo still thinks he is another member of the Nexonan upper class. On the other hand, Jonathan decides not to reveal that he knows Jo-jo's real identity as the Goryeoan president's daughter. They walk to his Honda Accord, which he had started driving after breaking up with Fiona.

Jo-jo: "In my country, students who are rich like to drive flashy cars to school."

Jonathan: "You mean like a Bugatti?"

Jo-jo: "Nah, we haven't seen a Bugatti yet. However, they would usually drive Mercedes, BMW, Audi, Porsche and even Ferrari."

Jonathan: "I thought you have a sophisticated metro system in Hanseong."

Jo-jo: "The majority of students rides on the subway, just like in your country. Only rich teenagers drive their own cars, like you."

Jonathan: "Nah, I am not rich."

Jo-jo: "Are you sure? I've heard lots of rumours."

Jonathan: "Rumours like how I think you are adorable? Then yes, I am guilty as charged."

The Goryeoan girl blushes at her Nexonan friend's pickup line.

Jo-jo: "So where are we going?"

Jonathan: "I gotta pick up a tuxedo that I ordered from a tailor and run some other errands, but first, let me change into more comfortable clothes so let's head back to my house first."

The crown prince starts driving to his residence in the capital's Terminus Avenue. Upon entering the street, Jo-jo looks at the art deco buildings in awe. Most of them are townhouses that have either been converted into luxury boutique stores, apartments or boutique hotels. Some of them are still owned as single family homes, such as the one that Jonathan Mason arrives at.

Jo-jo: "Do you live here?"

Jonathan: "Yeah, why?"

Jo-jo: "I live in a studio nearby. Two blocks away, actually."

Jonathan realises that she has accidentally blown her cover away. *If she is really the Goryeoan ambassador's daughter, then she wouldn't be living alone in a studio*, Jonathan thinks to himself.

Jonathan: "Oh that's cool, we could hang out in each other's houses sometimes! However, this isn't my main residence though."

Jo-jo: "Wait, what?"

Jonathan: "This is my pied-à-terre."

Jo-jo: "Pie a what?"

Jonathan: "A pied-à-terre is an apartment that is kept as a secondary home in the city so that the occupants could stay there if they are going to said city, rather than booking a hotel."

Jo-jo: "So it is like a second house?"

Jonathan: "Yeah. I stay here if I am in the city after a long night out and I am too exhausted to go home."

Jo-jo: "In my country, we are only allowed to own 1 private residence.”

Jonathan: "I am sure there's some merit to that."

Jo-jo: "Yeah, that's why there are so few homeless creatures in Hanseong."

Unbeknownst to Jo-jo, there used to be a lot of them in the Goryeoan capital. The year after she was hatched, Goryeo was set to host the Olympic Games. In order to make Hanseong's streets more "appealing", the military dictatorship in power at the time forcibly relocated them to more rural cities such as Pasoong, Jeongguk and other "backwater" provinces. Those who resisted relocation were allegedly shot dead and cremated.

The two enter the townhouse's door and find themselves in the living room. It is stylishly decorated in an art nouveau theme, which Jo-jo thinks is rather chic.

Jonathan: "I am just gonna go upstairs to get changed."

Jo-jo: "Umm, okay sure."

The Goryeoan could not believe what she had heard. *I thought he only owns one floor of the building.* She snoops around the floor quickly and realises that it is larger than her father's former residence in Hanseong. Her crush soon returns to the living room dressed in a casual pink sweatshirt and black jeans.

Jo-jo: "Did you just say you went upstairs just now?"

Jonathan: "Yeah, why?"

Jo-jo: "I thought you only own this floor."

Jonathan: "Nope, the entire building is mine."

Jo-jo: "What the heck?!"

Jonathan: "What's with it?"

Jo-jo: "In Goryeo, our houses are small, even if we are from privileged backgrounds like mine. Back there, my house is an apartment that is 1,400 square feet large in the affluent district of Aonama."

The Nexonan thinks this is the best time to prod the Goryeoan president's daughter to see how she reacts when under pressure, as he thinks there is no way a Goryeoan diplomat could afford an apartment in an affluent district.

Jonathan: "I thought you are constantly overseas."

Jo-jo: "Well there were years when my father wasn't posted overseas. Instead, he served as a foreign policy advisor for the Blue House. My mom inherited some money from her father, so she used that money to purchase the apartment."

Jonathan: "Oh okay."

In reality, Jo-jo's father was a high school dropout after being expelled for assaulting another student. Instead of accepting that he would permanently work as a manual labourer, he worked part time while studying for the country's law exam. Goryeo was unique in that it allowed law exam takers to become qualified lawyers even without taking the Suneung exam or having graduated from high school. 4 years later, at the age of 20, he became one of the youngest lawyers in Goryeoan history as most newly qualified lawyers were 22 or 23 years old. It was by practicing law before entering politics that the family was able to afford the apartment.

Jo-jo: "I think one floor of your townhouse alone is larger than my entire apartment back home."

Jonathan: "That sounds like an exaggeration."

It was not. After counting the 4 floors in the building, plus an underground floor or two, she concludes that the townhouse is at least 16,000 square feet large.

Jo-jo: "Even the detached houses of rich chaebol heirs are smaller than yours."

Jonathan: "Now you really are pulling my leg."

Jo-jo: "I am not. I know some of them, and their houses are humongous by our standards. You have to be extremely wealthy to own a detached house in Hanseong. Heck, who knows what your main residence looks like if your second home is already this big."

The two enter Jonathan's car, who then drives to the Imperial Bank of Nexon.

Jo-jo: "Wait, why are we here?"

Jonathan: "I gotta withdraw some money, stay here."

Jo-jo: "But I thought this is the central bank-"

Jonathan closes the door without giving her a response, because he didn't hear her question. 10 minutes later, he came out with a briefcase.

Jo-jo: "What the fuck, did you just rob the bank?"

Jonathan: "Of course not, this is legitimately my money."

As her crush puts the briefcase into the trunk, Jo-jo couldn't help but wonder who exactly is Jonathan Munro. He has to be extremely powerful and wealthy to not only own an entire townhouse as a secondary residence, but also withdraw money from the central bank for his personal expenses.

Jo-jo: "Are you the Nexonan Emperor's son or something?"

Jonathan is momentarily stunned by the question.

Jonathan: "What makes you think so?"

Jonathan's response inadvertently confirms Jo-jo's suspicion. She decides to ignore the question her crush posed.

Jonathan: "So what kind of school did you study in prior to moving to Nexon City?"

Jo-jo: "I went to this place that is basically the Joseonean version of Kalieth High School. Despite being a state school in name, in practice many civil servants send their children here because it is a rather elite school. Even then, the government made sure that only 20% of the students' parents have government backgrounds at most. It's less common to see diplomats' children here, and there are more people from working class backgrounds."

Jonathan: "Why didn't you go to an international school or something?"

Jo-jo: "All schools are state-run there and the curriculum is globalised enough to be suitable for foreigners. Also, the mediums of instruction are English and Korean so it's not like they can't understand the topics."

Jonathan nods. *Time to put all schools under state control when I am coronated.* When he looks at his right, he sees Gwen Schaeffer walking on the sidewalk. He pulls up next to her to greet her.

Jonathan: "Hey Gwen, where are you going?"

The ambassador's daughter takes a look at him, before taking a look at Jo-jo. Her face betrays her nervousness and fear that Gwen might end up third wheeling what would be her date with Jonathan.

Gwen: "I'm going to Rothman Plaza to buy some clothes."

Jonathan: "We're going there as well."

The Francterrean grins mischievously. By now, Jo-jo looks pissed off.

Gwen: "Mind if I join you two?"

Jonathan: "Of course not, hop on in!"

Unbeknownst to Oh Boon Seng, by committing suicide, he is also undoing what is his last legacy known to the public. After the military coup, the ethnic Zhouese general used government funds to prop up private schools where the medium of instruction was in Mandarin. These schools were mostly attended by the descendants of ethnic Zhouese immigrants. Boon Seng believed it was his duty to preserve his cultural heritage to the best of his ability. However, this was in direct opposition to President Stanley Tulsuoy's policy of creating a unified Westioner national identity. He was of mixed Zhouese and Puffish ancestries, like 71% of the population with mixed Zhouese and Archipelagoan (Puffish, Francterrean, Alemanian, etc) ancestries. Meanwhile, 18% have pure Zhouese ancestries and the remaining are either pure Archipelagoan or of other ethnic minorities. While people like the President identify themselves as Westioner for the sake of simplicity, many of those with Zhouese ancestry still prefer to identify as Zhouese rather than Westioner. Tulsuoy believes that by cracking down on the schools, he will be able to achieve his vision of a united Westioner identity.

In the past, when he had attempted to close down the Zhouese private schools out of fear of political interference by Zhou via their curriculum, Oh Boon Seng intervened and changed his mind. With him out of the picture, the President believed it was the right time to make his move. However, as soon as the Minister of Education announced the mandatory conversion of all Zhouese private schools in the country, all hell broke loose. Zhouese school students began demonstrating in front of their schools and boycotted classes. The police was hesitant to intervene, as they were afraid of causing another revolution just like the one their president used to lead. From the old Government House, which is now his private residence, the President stares at a live broadcast of the protesters.

Tulsuoy: "Fuck, these people remind me of my friends back then...and Howard fucking Chan."

He unbuttons one of the buttons of his custom tailored white shirt to reduce tension. Despite being at home in his comfortable shirt, beige chinos and monkstrap shoes, he does not feel comfortable at all. Unbeknownst to the rest of the world, Tulsuoy had already made up his mind. In his opinion, the Zhouese communist party masterminded the protest in order to influence the country, and he will not look weak. Just then, his 15 year old daughter walks into the room. She has changed from her school uniform into a tropical dress after returning from school.

Tulsuoy: "Why did you get suspended today, Rachel?"

Rachel: "It's so unfair, daddy!"

Tulsuoy: "Alright, sit down. Spit your words out slowly."

The First Daughter sits on the sofa.

Rachel: "One of my classmates said that you are a horrible leader because of what's going on right now, so I argued with her and ended up punching her."

Tulsuoy takes a sip of water.

Tulsuoy: "Rachel, we are better than that."

Rachel: "I know..."

Tulsuoy: "We gotta be the better person in private. If she doesn't hit you, do not hit her. However, if she does, then you can retaliate. When you're in my job in the future, though, you *have* to be tough."

Rachel: "What do you mean?"

Tulsuoy: "Give barbarians a treatment befitting those for barbarians and give civilised people a treatment befitting civilised creatures. Look at the TV to see what I mean."

As they set their sights on the television screen again, the police officers have started firing tear gas and water cannons at the protesters. While he is determined that no lethal force should be used, the Westioner president will not tolerate any disruption to the national identity.

The day of the party is here. All guests are invited to Fuckingham Palace, which is Emperor Slender's vacation palace. As the servants and guards perform their duties of preparing food and drinks for the guests, the guests each start the Emperor, who is wearing his imperial crown and blue suit. While Nexonan nationals prostrate in front of Emperor, foreign guests merely have to bow as a sign of respect. Soon, the Emperor sees the face of the penguin who betrayed him. The 84 year old penguin with neatly combed white hair and a grey tuxedo approaches Slender, revealing himself to be Daniel Mason. Behind him are his three "familial allies", namely his son Benedict Mason, Vivian Mason and Nicholas Mason.

Slender: "Good evening."

Daniel: "Slendy boy, how are you?"

The emperor's grandfather extends his flipper to shake his grandson's, who is momentarily surprised that he didn't bow to him. Instead, he firmly grips his flipper.

Daniel: "I guess we are technically equals now huh, especially since you would have to defer to me if you are like your cousins Vivian and Nicky. However, since you are a head of state now, I am glad to consider you an equal."

Slender forces out a smile. This is the first time he has seen the old bastard after ascending to the throne at a young age. From a distance, Rachel Tulsuoy, who is wearing a blue floral dress, asks his father (who is wearing a black tuxedo) about the identity of her grandfather's business rival.

Rachel: "Daddy, who is that?"

Stanley: "That, my dear, is tonight's surprise."

The president winks at her. Meanwhile, the Westioner First Lady, Yvonne de Silva, is dressed in a blue dress. She turns to her father Rafael, who is dressed in the same way as his presidential son-in-law.

Yvonne: "I have never understood why you dislike him so much."

Rafael: "The truth is that I didn't, not initially at least. When I was building up the family business prior to the coup, I was planning to make a foray into Honk Gong's property market. I had in mind a mixed-use real estate development that would be an amalgamation of upscale retail stores, a luxury hotel and office space for multinational corporations. I needed a partner so I approached Daniel Mason and asked if the Mason Group wanted to do it together as a joint venture."

Yvonne: "How much was the proposal worth back then?"

Rafael: "By the time the project would have been completed in the original parcel of land, it would be worth 290 million CPC."

Yvonne does some quick thinking. Such a venture built back then will be worth at least a few billion CPC today.

Rafael: "I found a piece of land with convenient access to public transit, all that jazz. However, not only did he refuse to work with me, he also used his influence to get the Puffish colonial government to sell the leasehold to him rather than me."

Yvonne: "What the heck?! So he basically screwed you out of an entire fortune?"

Rafael: "Screwed me over he did, but 2 years later the coup occurred. Suddenly I was the Westioner government's favourite man for overseas investment. They gave me enough credit to purchase an arguably less strategic land, albeit at a higher premium than the original plot of land because Daniel tried to bid against me for that land as well."

Yvonne: "That's scummy."

Rafael: "Of course, later on when he tried to approach me for joint ventures, I rejected him because I was on equal footing with him by then. The bastard never intended to apologise for costing me what is essentially a few billion CPC, so what's to say he won't feel guilty about screwing me over again?"

Soon, it is the other relatives' turn to greet Slender. After they bowed in front of him, the Emperor gives Nicholas Mason a friendly hug. He then whispers something to his cousin.

Slender: "I have set up everything. Thanks for the intel."

Nick: "You're welcome."

Slender: "Just enjoy the show."

The banker waddles into one of the washrooms in the ground floor, which are reserved for guests. To his surprise, he does not expect it to have art deco design. It is then that the Westioner president enters the bathroom to have a leak.

Nick: "Good evening, Mr. President."

Stanley: "Good evening to you too."

After 2 hours of cocktail, the servers begin serving food to the guests. An appetiser of tuna with olive, mackerel with lemon, cuttlefish with tomato, mullet with basil (pesto)and sea bream, served on a rock and steamed with boiling broth is first served, followed by chilled langoustines with almond, pomegranate, and ginger, confit byaldi, coastal turbot in natural form, green peas, squid, nasturtium, scampi, onion and potato, Japalandese 'teppanyaki' wagyu beef and a raspberry sorbet to cleanse the palette. A selection of cheeses from around Antarctica are also offered as a dessert course.

After the meal, some guests start dancing to the live orchestra while most of them prefer to chat among each other in the Nexonan Emperor's palace. Jonathan Mason looks dashing in his black tuxedo. As he mingles around with the guests, he expects to see Jo-jo or Gwen because their fathers are invited (or in Jo-jo's case, both her real and "fake" fathers are invited). It is not long before he is able to spot the tanned Joseonean girl talking to a bespectacled Joseonean man in his mid 50's. *Holy crap, she looks very gorgeous in her white dress,* the Crown Prince thought to herself. Downing the entire glass of martini, he summons up the courage to meet her parent for real.

Jonathan: "Good evening, Jo-jo."

Jo-jo: "Hello there! Have you met my father?"

Jonathan: "No, I haven't."

Dae-jung: "Greetings, Your Majesty."

The Joseonean president shakes Jonathan's flipper.

Jonathan: "Good evening to you too, Mr. President."

Dae-jung: "I'll let you two catch up, excuse me."

As he leaves, the Joseonean first daughter looks at her crush bewildered.

Jo-jo: "Are you surprised that he's my father?"

Jonathan: "Nope, my father told me in advance, and in retrospect there are several occasions when you slipped up."

Jo-jo looks embarrassed.

Jo-jo: "Come on, it can't be that obvious right?"

Jonathan: "Actually it is to me."

Jo-jo looks around the room before asking Jonathan a question.

Jo-jo: "Have you seen Gwen?"

Jonathan: "Nope, why would you ask that?"

Jo-jo: "I was just curious."

Jonathan: "Well my eyes are solely on you for tonight. Shall we dance?"

The Joseonean girl smiles.

Jo-jo: "Of course!"

Upstairs, the Nexonan Emperor is infuriated as he steps out of his bathroom, having cleaned himself up and changed another blue suit. Earlier, Daniel Mason had 'accidentally' spilled some wine onto his suit and tried to shrug it off by saying that it's not a big deal.

Slender: "Motherfuckers! I'll make them pay."

Slender goes to the ballroom to look for the Westioner president.

Slender: "Send them in now."

Stanley: "Alright."

The president approaches one of the suited bodyguards accompanying him and whispers something to him. He replies with a grunt before he relays the instruction to his other colleagues. They then walk towards Daniel, Benedict, Nicholas and Vivian Mason, the four of whom are sitting on a sofa to listen to the patriarch's nonsensical mumblings.

Daniel: "Now, all I need is to do is to offer a higher purchase price for FakChoy Entertainment and the Mason Group will dominate the gambling industry."

Westioner agent 1: "Daniel Mason and Benedict Mason, under the laws of the Republic of Westion, you are both under arrest for conspiracy to kill the President of Westion."

Benedict: "No, we did not!"

Daniel: "You don't have jurisdiction here, pal. Bugger off."

The emperor approaches his relatives. He is trying his best to hide his grin.

Slender: "What's going on here?"

Daniel: "Slendy boy, this is your country. Tell these Westioner imbeciles that they can't arrest me somewhere not under their jurisdiction!"

Slender: "Actually, I am giving them permission to do so, get them mates."

The agents forcibly handcuff Daniel and Benedict, causing every guest to look at the commotion. The duo's humiliation is complete as they are arrested in front of literally almost every head of state and wealthy corporate figures in the world. Daniel looks around the room, bewildered. He then locks eyes on Rafael de Silva, who is standing next to Yvonne de Silva and Stanley Tulsuoy. The elder de Silva smiles and raises his martini glass at him to make a mock toast. The president looks at him with satisfaction.

Rafael: "Thanks for helping me to buy FakChoy Entertainment, old chap!"

Daniel: "FUCK YOU RAFAEL! FUCK YOU TOO, SLENDER! HOW CAN YOU DO THIS TO ME?!"

Slender: "Oops, boys I'll have to ask you to release Daniel."

Daniel: "Wait, what?"

Slender: "You are being placed under Nexonan custody for lèse-majesté instead. Get him, boys."

Nexonan soldiers in the room surround Daniel and drag him out. His son is also escorted out of the palace by the Politico-Security Bureau agents, who put him on a flight back to Westion. For Emperor Slender, this is a glorious moment as his revenge is finally complete.