The city was rather small, but, it was built high. Glassy buildings reflected the bustling streets below. Situated in the center was a park where a large circular stadium stood. It was much older than the surrounding structures and had been decorated for the occasion. Festival banners hung from the five entrances.

Food stalls lined the crowded pathways leading up to the building. Amongst the grass, families sat on spread blankets. Children's laughter came from the nearby playset. Hidden by a shroud of tall, neatly trimmed bushes.

"Interesting." Said Braginski, examining a modern day drinking fountain. He and Alfred were waiting for the young master outside the restrooms. In amazement, Ivan played with the series of food pedals that controlled the temperature and strength of the water stream. "I do not understand why one would prefer hot water." "I do not understand why one would prefer hot water."

Leaning against the wall, Jones watched in boredom. His attention quickly switched to the crowd. Most were dressed in what Alfred assumed was modern day casual wear. Ladies wore light colored fitted skirts trimmed with tassels and high collared blouses. The men were dressed sharply in dark blues, black, and tan slacks. Their dress shirts elaborately embroidered. Knee high boots were common amongst men and woman ranging from a neutral black to bright neon green.

Bells began to chime in the distance.

"The Queen has arrived!" Toby exclaimed, suddenly appearing next to Alfred. "Hurry sloths, we need to get to our seats before they are taken!"

The kid hurried towards the stadium, shoving his way through the mass of people.

"H-hey! Wait, don't run off on your own!" Jones called after him.

Ivan was quick to follow. His movements graceful, trying not to loose site of the boy. Alfred attempted the same, but, he was quickly consumed by the horde.

The child had halted. Braginski approached him, slowing, as he realized the crowd had also ceased. Their heads were bowed, all activity frozen. The chimes grew louder and people moved aside to form a path as two hooded men directed them to do so. Ivan stepped back, allowing them to pass mimicking the crowd. A young woman followed close behind.

She was dressed in a bright blue gown. A lengthy, white cowl covered her head. It was made of lace and ran over the shoulders, trailing behind her like a bridal train. The woman stopped, pulling back her veil. She was gorgeous. Her eyes were a memorizing shade of indigo and her pale face was framed by long ashen hair.

"You, raise your head." She spoke, glancing over at Braginski. "What is your name?"

With surprise, he did as he was instructed. Raising his head and greeting the young queen with a kind smile.

"Ivan Braginski, my Queen."

The queen came close. Lacking emotion, she eyed him over.

"To whom do you belong?" She asked.

"I serve the Kirkland's, my Queen. This is my Young Master, Toby Kirkland."

Her blank gaze went to the child whos head was still bowed in respect.

"I see." She said, replacing her hood and returning to place. "Rodrick, Matthew, let us proceed."

With her words, the procession continued.

Braginski watched the queen enter the stadium. As soon as she disappeared within, the crowd came back to life. Toby's cheeks were red with embarrassment. The Russian bent down, chuckling.

"Shall we go join the festivities inside?" He asked.

"Hey, you two!" Alfred called out, breaking through the wall of people. "We need to stay together. No more running off." He sighed.

"Da." Ivan nodded.

Abruptly, the entrance doors burst open. Distressed people flooded out of the building in terror. Screams echoed from inside as mass panic ensued. Alfred snatched Toby and pulled him close, the stampede knocking them about.

"SOMEONE TRIED TO ASSASSINATE THE QUEEN!" Someone cried out.