Sammich was in a state of shock.

Thats bottom dollar? I told you bottom dollar! Jesus Christ man, what do they think this is, Hollywood Boulevard?

Marston and Tetly looked at the street, then each other and then back at Sammich. Marston pointed at the Mann Chinese Theatre.

'Yes Sam. Thats exactly what they think. Because it is...'

Sammich looked around, looked down at the sheet and shook his head in resignation.

Right. Fine. Pay the fucks. We'll get it back soon enough. This better be worth it! The city has a lot to live up to if they expect us to pay that much. I better be fucking beside myself with excitement or I'mma head down to city hall and cut the fucker's toes off where he sits!

'I'm sure it'll be spectacular.'

Marston turned and headed off with Tetly. Shortly afterwards a long black Ford pulled up at the side of the road. ScreamingButterfly climbed out of the back looking regal in a long sparkling dress. Full of sequins and style she seemed to slide across the sidewalk toward Sammich. He met her with anticipation.

Everything worked out, right? At the Godfather's house? Its all done and Jack is safe?

Scream nodded and Sam let out a massive sigh of relief. So much had been riding on that. Sure they all had every confidence that Jack would take down the old Godfather. He'd been up there in his mansion in the hills forever. Living off reputation and past glories more and more each year. The threat was small. Jack had brought The Damned to LA and together with tnaryT they had sent a crime wave across the city like an unstoppable tsunami. The old man on the hill was just the last piece in an inevitable puzzle. Sammich imagined the old guy sitting up there like King Canute trying to stop the tide. He almost felt sorry for him.

Anyway. Fuck him. It was done. Jack was the man now and nothing could change that. And on this day Sam was especially relieved. He'd spent an absolute fortune on a surprise party, spared no expense. He even had trucks brought from the LA zoo containing lions and elephants and all manner of fascinating creatures. There had been so much hassle getting them all into buildings along the famous Hollywood Boulevard. He'd lined the roofs with ticker tape throwers and firework launchers. For a mile and a half the road was as loaded as a hitter's gun. Scream looked at him and asked.

'Is everything ready?'

Yeah. Everything! You are not going to believe your eyes. You are also not going to believe how much the cops wanted to give us this entire street for three hours! Anyway, I've told 01000011 to drive him down this way. He'll turn onto the boulevard down there near the end of the main strip. Then it will all go off!

They both smiled and waited. It wasn't long before a flash came from a roof at the end of the street and the long open topped car pulled onto the road. As soon as The car had past the first of the main store fronts, the doors opened and two lines of dancing Girls appeared. Flash-bang firework madness exploded from the roofs of the buildings and followed the car as it went, forming a continuous canopy of rainbow coloured sparkles that blotted out the sky. Ticker tape fell in a blizzard and the full bloom of a band burst into life as they filed out from opening store fronts either side of the car.

Dancing girls in chorus lines walked ahead of the big Bands that march in time. Doors continued to kick open as soon as they approached. Out would pour all manner of things. Lions and tigers with powerful roars, Stilt walkers who barely fit through the doors, Elephants covered in fabulous colours, Zebras walking and monkeys above us. Every step of the way there was life, action and wave upon wave of fantastic fireworks. The music blared as the car slowly made its way toward Sammich and ScreamingButterfly outside the Mann Chinese Theatre. Eventually the car pulled to a halt among a crescendo of dazzling madness. Jack climbed out of the car, half covered in ticker tape, wide-eyed and speechless. He gave the band time to finish their tune and allowed the chaos and falling debris to subside before strolling over to his hands. A huge smile greeted them both.

I don't know what to say to you two. Really! This is just about the most amazing thing I've ever seen! I know you love a big party Sam but you really went to the wall on this one! My. God.

He turned and applauded all the performers, animal trainers, musicians and assorted madmen that had made all this come to life. A magnificent show by all. After a good deal of collective applause he raised his hands and quieted the crowd. The various performers ebbed away leaving the main collective membership of the two principal families in the city and assorted associates from around the country. Jack climbed up on the hood of the car and addressed them all.

My friends! What can I say? I'm quite taken aback by all this. A truly magnificent sho by any standard!

To business...

I am standing here proudly today as the Godfather of Los Angeles!

A roar went up and took some time to subside enough for Jack to speak again.

It has been a long long road that has taken me, and many of you, across three cities in an incredible journey. The relentless devotion and sheer work-rate that many of you have displayed over the years has been astonishing. I am forever in your debts and as long as I reign here, you will be well served by me. Now...

With this position comes a transition. As everyone understands I will be unable to operate a family the size of the one I have now. My time and focus will be much more devoted to nation-wide interests and the progress of our city as it sits with the other great families around the country. As such I will be keeping a small collective of trusted people around me to help me in this task. The rest of you will need a new man to lead you.

Jack turned and beckoned Marston over to his side. Putting both hands on his shoulders, he kissed him firmly on each cheek and then embraced him as warmly as any brother. Holding him out again at arm's length he stared at Marston with eyes full of pride before turning back to the crowd.

Marston will take over from me as the leader of the family. You will all work for me, as will tnaryT's family but Marston will be your leader. You will treat him with all the respect that you have treated me and follow his every command without question. This man has served me with an unquestionable loyalty and has outstanding natural skill in all aspects of this thing of ours. I have had a long time to consider this decision and from the first moment until now there has never been any other choice. I would be doing all of you a disservice to select anyone else.

Ladies and Gentlemen. Your new leader. Marston.

There was another hearty round of applause and much cheering before Jack could quiet everyone down once more.

Now. Everyone. With all this laid on by my beloved hands. I am damn sure going to enjoy it! There is music and dancing and food and frivolity for all. Please make the most of everything. Get good and smashed and lets live it up!

Heading down into the crowd of family and friends he was lost among well wishers while an army of champagne corks popped and fizzy fountains of celebration broke out all over. The band ripped up again and the street became one giant drunken party.

DoctorDoom flies in

Congrats marston im sure you wiill do great things in LA and Congrats to Godfather Pepper LA Shall prosper with you my friend

Doctordoom takes a sip of his whiskey before flying out

congrats old friend, about time we saw you reach this height, we all know what what a special member to this world you are and its simply amazing to see you up there and completely justified too.

again, grats mate.

Odysseus overhears the newest Godfather talking and steps forward.

Congrats to you on your new Godfather crew and congratulations to you Marston. I know you will both do great things in Los Angeles.

Steps back into the crowd.

Xiphos stands around as Jack is making his speech. He looks at the party favors all around him, resisting the temptation of the alcohol. He looks into Jack's eyes as soon as he says the words "Godfather of Los Angeles". An overwhelming pride overcomes Xiphos. One of his closest friends has just received the greatest honor in our world. With a smile he approaches Jack at the end of his speech. He shakes his hand and pulls him into a hug.

Jack...where to begin. From the moment Clarity and I moved from Chicago to New York, you were there. When I took up my bold suit, you were there. You've been by my side, almost since day one. You've encouraged me in everything I've done. You've been a great friend, and an even greater colleague. Words cannot express the pride I have to see you filling in the big shoes as a Godfather. I won't hold you from your guests, but I just wanted to express my gratitude, and offer my congratulations. I can think of no one more deserving of the title Godfather of Los Angeles, then you my friend.

With a nod, and a smile, Xiphos leaves Jack to the mercy of the crowd. He looks around at the festivities, debating what to do first.

Trunks awaited patiently within the crowd, and before stepping up to speak with the new Godfather of LA he had to gather himself and his words, upon finding them he started his way towards this outstanding man, on this short but ever so long walk he began to think of everything this man has done for not only the great city of LA, but at one time a solid and highly respected leader of New york city. Even though I was only a boy at the time I remember hearing stories of this outstanding individual, the hype was huge and he never ever failed to disappoint, finally reaching the newest Godfather of this fine thing out ours Trunks extended his hand with a large grin running from ear to ear…

JackPepper, I will never and have never forgotten the name since I was nothing but a young lad with your time spent in New York. Ive been blessed enough to see a great man climb to what you have now accomplished on this fine day, truly an inspiration to us all. Though we have never had the time to speak a whole lot, I have always respected what you put into this thing of ours and always seen you as a great man of honor. Today, I feel compelled to say these things as you have just been to outstanding with everything you have done, guess you can say ive always been one of your fans watching from a distance, always learning and setting the bar higher and higher.

Congratulations, and I not need say anymore because everyone already knows your going to rock the joint.

Trunks does a full 360 pointing around him…

Not just anyone, or any set people can put such a thing together so I guess you can say im not only congratulating the new Godfather, but his loyal followers in the city of LA.

Finding himself at a loss for words he takes another good look at JackPepper…

Outstanding, couldn’t be more happy for you and your city.

Giving a final nod he catches up with Xiphos to take part in the once in a lifetime festivities…

IkeTurner stands in the crowd smoking a cigarette and grinning.

Well its about time mate! Thought you'd never make it.

Ike hands JackPepper a bottle of brandy and hands Marston a cigar.

Good day good sirs.

Sam stumbles elegantly from the bar to the stage where he throws his arms around Jack and Marston. He looks at Jack.

You know, Jack, I always knew you were destined for great things. While seeing you take this position pleases me it certainly doesn't surprise me. We started off in Chicago with a plan and stuck with it and now we're seeing the culmination of that plan. Now we get to start down a new path as Las Angeles grows into the prospering city we had hoped it to become when we moved out here.

Sam turns to Marston.

You've done so much great work in your time with us, Marston. You are truly deserving of the honor of taking over this crew. I have no doubt you will continue to grow and maintain the operations we've begun in our city.

I'm very proud of the both of you. Congratulations to you both and I look forward to us working together for a long time to come.

Congratulations to JackPepper and Marston on new positions. I am sure they will do great.

Well, its not often I bring myself out onto the street to congratulate people. I tend to do that more so in private if i'm honest, but the two people before us reaching their goals are two of the hardest workers I know from outside my own City.

Marston and Jack, both of you are deserving of your advances in our world and it comes as little surprise to any of us that you have achieved your goals. Indeed Marston you had a fleeting stay in our fine city of Sin and we were all saddend to see you leave for the bright lights of New York, though we understood why and wished you all the best, you have proved yourself to be a fine mafioso just like we knew you would.

Jack, as you touched on yourself, you've not only proved yourself in 1 city, but 3. Starting your fine work in Chicago and then moving to New York and establishing a fine Criminal enterprise alongside the lovely Clarity, to then moving out on your own to LA and building your own empire. You've taken each move in your stride and your progress is well deserved. I look forward to watching as you mould LA into the City you want it to be.

Best of luck to both of you in your new found positions!

Magneto strolls in with a smile on his face.

Congrats to both of you guys, i'm sure yous will do a fantastic job!

Gives them a nice friendly handshake then hands them both cuban cigars.

Enjoy them while they last.

Walks off into the moonlight.

Glad to see all the citys filling up.

Congrats man.

Kurtz finished paying off one of the zoo keepers and headed into the crowd to listen to Jack's speech. When the commotion had died down and the new Godfather was mingling with the crowd, he made his way toward him. Taking his moment he shook Jack's hand.

Jack! You have been good to me, solid and supportive, I owe you a lot. I am delighted on this day to see you here. You have provided us all with so much and now you have an appropriate title. It fits you well. I'm sure as time goes on and the city continues to blossom the way it has under your rule, we will see all the fruits of your years off work, come to fruition.

Kurtz pulled out a finely crafted wooden box and handed it to Jack. Opening it carefully he saw a perfect pair of old duelling pistols inside. Resting snugly in a carefully crafted purple velvet interior they were the very definition of immaculate. Jack smiled and closed the box carefully. Kurtz went on.

You're not just a good man Jack but a busy one. So I'll waste no more of your time. Lets get smashed!

Raising a bottle of champagne he took a huge swig and cheered before dancing toward the monkeys and their keeper.

Congratulations on your promotion to the highest level,Jack.It is indeed a great news and really happy for us. You have reached this position in your career through sheer hard work and dealing with new challenges. You have reached the pinnacle of success due to your determination and vision. You have done an excellent job there, and recognition of this kind is well deserved. Your love for MR has certainly paid off in your career!

Well done, and I wish you continued success.

tnaryT shows up to the celebrations and festivities fashionably late as always. However, he makes up for it by bearing partying gifts of some of DnC's best shine and other medicinal consumables. tnaryT, after dispensing his "presents"  makes his way to Mr. Pepper with open arms. After giving Mr. Pepper a very manly man hug, tnaryT slips a white envelope into Jack's inside jacket pocket. At this point, tnaryT nod's at Mr. Pepper and then grabs everyone attention by clanking a champagne glass with a fork. After gaining everyone's attention, tnaryT begins his speech.

First and for most congratulations to Jack for gaining this highly esteemed rank of honor and power, as well to Mr. Marston for taking control of Jack's crew. As Mr. Pepper stated earlier, it has been a long road for some of us. Going from working for the late JessieJames in Chi-town, to having the pleasure to serve under Ms. Clarity in New York and finally making the move to L.A. where he finally got the position of City Head. Now we finally see him take the reins as an official God Father. This promotion is well deserved and much over due. As I have said before, it is a pleasure to continue to work for you, Mr. Pepper and as much so I look forward to working with my new counterpart Mr. Marston. Once again congratulations to both of you.

Stamina walks in fashionably later than the fashionably late tnaryT. Looking around, he spots a few faces he recognises and gives a warm nod to those who are happy to see him there. Chancing eye contact with JackPepper, he walks over in his direction with a grin on his face, a grin that he cannot pretend to hide. Extending his hand towards the new Godfather, Stamina begins...

I can't begin to tell you how happy I am to see you standing here as you are today, you have travelled such a long way and I'm glad to see you've turned Los Angeles into something special. Although not a surprise that you got there I was confused when my assistant alerted me about the previous Godfather being challenged, it was a massive relief to hear you had taken over full control of the city and not Mr. Durden.

Your bloodline goes back as far as mine, and further. I remember my grandfather working with your family in New York such a long time ago, he told me you were a good man and that you look out for your people before anything else. I have confidence that you will continue the fine work you've been doing and will build on the family history, as many others will believe the same.

Stamina tips his hat for the Godfather of Los Angeles and his new Leader, Marston

Congratulations to the both of you, I know you have both worked hard to be where you are today.

The traffic in Los Angeles was horrendous. By the time Jordan got to the party she was exhausted from watching her driver. “Good job, Danny Boy.” The leader commented and patted his shoulder when they got to Hollywood Boulevard. “Thanks for getting me here before Christmas.”

The party was in full swing when Jordan got out of the car. In the crowd she saw a few friends from New York and walked towards them. After a few minutes of chit chat with them Jordan mingled through the crowd until she found the new Godfather of Los Angeles. With a proud smile she approached him and shook his hand.

“Congratulations, Jack. Your new title is a great honor and well deserved. From Chicago to New York and now LA you’ve been one of the hardest working people I know. I’m glad to see it has paid off for you. I look forward to seeing your future plans for Los Angeles.”

Much later during the party Jordan found the new leader, Marston and his Right Hand Man, Kurtz. A suit tailor and a mild mannered book store owner, perfect covers for mobsters, Jordan thought as she approached them.

“Hello, gentlemen.” The gorgeous Don greeted them with a smile. “Marston, congratulations and good luck with your new job.” Jordan turned to Kurtz. “And you….” She mimicked the cheeky wink he threw at her after a political speech and said, “Call me next time you’re in New York.”

I want to extend a Heartfelt congratulations to the new Godfather of LA. This is possibly the hardest thing to accomplish in this life that we live and something that will mark your bloodline for the rest of time. I am sure that you will take LA from the floursishing city that it already is into a magnificent havent of profit and mob activity. 

It is not every day that we see this my friends, so when we do we need to take note. 

To JackPepper, congratulations sir. This is an amazing feet. The city of Las Angeles is in good hands. 

I want to extend a Heartfelt congratulations to the new Godfather of LA. This is possibly the hardest thing to accomplish in this life that we live and something that will mark your bloodline for the rest of time. I am sure that you will take LA from the floursishing city that it already is into a magnificent havent of profit and mob activity. 

It is not every day that we see this my friends, so when we do we need to take note. 

To JackPepper, congratulations sir. This is an amazing feet. The city of Las Angeles is in good hands. 

Clapping from a bench across the street as he drank his coffee he lit up a cigar and stood up stretching his legs.. he was getting old indeed it felt

I am pleased personally to see the west coast now on lock and the criminal operations there running so smoothly and prospering, as LA holds a special place in my heart from the old days. I love the gambling, the beach and the people and I am excited and eager to see what you will do with the city sir. Congrats on Godfather and to Mr Marston for his promotion to running his own crime family. I wish you all the best

Finishing his coffee he smoked on the cigar.. watching the fine women as they walked by