Chapter 6 - The Gathering at Valenti Manor
Saturday evening arrived with a biting autumn chill. The grand ballroom of the Valenti Manor was filled to capacity with over two hundred delegates from every faction of the regional syndicate. Crystal chandeliers illuminated tables laden with roast meats, fine wines, and floral arrangements.
To the outside world, it was an annual gala of elite businessmen. To the underworld, it was the supreme court where bosses were crowned and traitors were executed.
Helen sat near the elevated dais, wearing a shimmering emerald gown and her signature pearls. She smiled gracefully at visiting bosses, playing the role of the benevolent matriarch to perfection. Beside her, Richard conversed smoothly with senior capos, subtly reinforcing the narrative that Domenico was unstable and unfit for leadership.
"He's emotionally compromised," Richard whispered to Don Moretti, the elder statesman of the neighboring family. "Ever since his wife passed, he can't make rational calls. He's harboring an illegitimate child and threatening his own parents."
Don Moretti stroked his gray beard, his old eyes unreadable. "A Don who cannot control his own house cannot control the streets, Richard. If what you say is true, the Elders will support a transition of power tonight."
High above the ballroom, in the private balcony overlooking the floor, Domenico watched the scene play out. He wore a crisp black tuxedo, his posture rigid and commanding.
Behind him stood Marco and three trusted soldiers, along with Dr. Vance and a representative from the state's top forensic laboratory.
"Is everything in place?" Domenico asked without turning around.
"The main display screens are hijacked, Don Domenico," Marco confirmed. "The outer perimeter guards have been replaced by our loyal units. Bruno and his men have been quietly disarmed and detained in the basement."
Domenico took a slow breath, adjusting his cuff links. "And Lily?"
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"She's safe in the safehouse with a dedicated medical squad. She's watching cartoons, boss."
Domenico smiled faintly—a brief moment of light before entering the storm. "Good. Let's finish this."
