Int. Moretti Mansion – Main Hall – Afternoon
The main hall of the Moretti mansion breathes history and power. The walls, clad in dark wood, reflect the dim light of the chandeliers. In the center, a large solid oak table holds spread-out maps and crystal glasses filled with amber liquor.
Don Salvatore Moretti, a fifty-five-year-old man with salt-and-pepper hair and a gaze combining toughness and wisdom, stands in front of the table. At his side are his son Giovanni, twenty years old, bearing the determined air of someone whose destiny is tied to this family, and his brother Luca Moretti, strong and pragmatic, radiating natural respect and authority.
Around them, the caporegimes and trusted men wait respectfully. Cataldo Sabino, a man with a severe gaze and calm expression, Giovanni's father-in-law and a recognized capo, stands firm alongside Luca Brasi, who at just thirty years old already inspires fear due to his reputation and unwavering loyalty.
Don Salvatore extends his hand toward a roll of maps spread over the table. His voice, deep and measured, fills the room.
—Midtown is the heart that begins to beat strongly under our control —he begins—. But occupying streets is not enough, we must govern with justice and firmness. That's why today, I officially hand over the territories to those I trust in this family.
He looks at each one with affection and sternness.
—To my brother Luca Moretti, I entrust the Garment District, between 34th and 42nd streets. It's a territory of industry and hard work, a place that requires a firm hand and vision to increase the family's income.
Luca nods respectfully.
—To Cataldo Sabino and his men —the Don continues—, I entrust Times Square, Broadway, and Grand Central Terminal. Here lies the pulse of commerce and city movement. A good business, but also an area where you must control the routes and prevent any intrusion.
Cataldo exchanges a firm look with Giovanni.
—Hell's Kitchen —says the Don with a slight smile, turning toward Luca Brasi—. A tough territory, with streets won by blood and loyalty. I trust your temper to maintain order and respect in this area.
Luca Brasi, without losing composure, gives a slight nod, accepting the challenge.
Finally, the Don turns toward his son Giovanni.
—You, Giovanni, though young, will oversee this consolidation. The family needs an heir who understands that power is sustained by unity and respect. You will watch every move and be the voice that keeps these men together.
Giovanni feels the weight of his father's gaze, a mix of pride and responsibility.
—I won't fail you, father —he replies firmly.
Don Salvatore lets his gaze fall over everyone present, his voice becoming more solemn.
—Remember, Moretti is more than a name. We are blood, honor, and loyalty. Only together will we be invincible.
The caporegimes nod, joining hands in a gesture of brotherhood. They exchange looks that seal a tacit pact: family comes first. Don Salvatore points firmly at the map spread on the table, his fingers tracing the streets and avenues of Midtown.
—The Garment District —begins Luca Moretti, taking the floor with a grave, confident voice— is the area where the clothes that dress the whole city are made and sold. Controlling this zone means managing the economy of the workshops and factories, as well as influencing unions and suppliers. Here lies the industrial power that can ensure our income for years.
Luca lifts his gaze and looks at those present.
—It's not a territory for games —he warns—. Here, people work hard and expect respect. Any attempt to destabilize the area will be met with no mercy.
Don Salvatore nods in approval and turns to Cataldo Sabino.
—Times Square and Broadway —he says—, along with Grand Central Terminal, are the visible face of Midtown. Tourism, entertainment, businesses that never sleep. But also a place vulnerable to infiltration by rivals and the police. Cataldo, you know these streets and their dangers.
Cataldo Sabino, jaw clenched, responds:
—I will make everyone know the Sabino name is in control. No one will pass without our mark. The family will be protected on every corner.
Luca Brasi's voice breaks in with his deep and cutting tone.
—Hell's Kitchen is no neighborhood for the weak —he says—. Respect there is earned with actions, not words. The people of those streets do not forgive mistakes. That's why I will be ruthless. Any threat, inside or out, will be crushed without hesitation.
Giovanni observes the men around him, knowing each has a different character but the same goal.
Don Salvatore turns to his son.
—Giovanni, supervision will be key —he assures—. It's not just about dividing territories but about keeping the family united, strong, and respected. Each of you knows loyalty is tested in moments like this.
Giovanni nods, aware that he will be the piece that maintains balance.
—I have gathered the best —he says—. We won't let anyone stand in our way.
In the room, gazes meet. The atmosphere is one of commitment and contained tension, the start of a decisive stage.