Day 2

"naho"

- Friendship is the marriage of the soul. Friendship doubles our joy and divides our grief. Friendship is the phantom of falsehood.

Phantom of Falsehood is the second episode of 91 Days.

Synopsis
Don Vincent's Mansion is bustling with the wedding of his daughter, Fio and Ronald. Behind the scenes of this showy party, the Family is wrapped in a turbulent air. Recently, the relationship with the Orco Family has been deteriorating. This is especially true for Vanno, enraged by the death of his comrade. By this, Nero proposes plans to take-out Fango. This important task is taken on by Avilio.

Plot
Driving along the bumpy road, the car rocks back and forth as Vanno checks the time (9:33pm). Vanno tells Tronco, who's driving, that it's about time for the cops to make their rounds. Tronco asks why they don't just grease their palms a little. Vanno says that Scusa isn't satisfied with "a little." Arturo asks who Scusa is, and Vanno says that he's the new Federal Bureau of Prohibition head. Vanno says that he heard Scusa took a small fortune from the Orco family. Arturo suddenly turns sharply, knocking Vanno to the side of the car. Vanno grabs Arturo's shoulder, knocking out his cigarette, and tells him to watch his driving. He says that he through Arturo had been driving taxis up until then. Seeming annoyed, Arturo says that all the booze in the back is throwing them off. Vanno sits back down and says that it's at least putting more money in his pockets. At that, Arturo smiles and says that he's going to buy a Phantom once he saves enough. Vanno smiles too and says that after 100 more booze runs, he'll buy one for him. Arturo is overjoyed at this and says that he'll hold him to it. Smiling and looking ahead, Vanno says that that is assuming they're both alive.

Suddenly, Vanno spots a car in the distance. He says that it's them and tells him to hurry. Arturo nods and takes a sharp turn right. They both jump out of the car and begin throwing branches on the car. As the car rounds the corner, Vanno yells to hide. Vanno runs behind a tree. Two men exit the car are shine their flashlights. Vanno sees this and pulls the gun out of his pocket. He hears the car drive off and turns to see it as well. Smiling, he puts his gun back in his coat and stands up. He says that they're gone and calls Tronco. Tronco doesn't answer, but hears a branch break behind him. He turns to find a man that he mistakes for Tronco. He says that they should go back. The man pulls out a bloody knife and swipes it at Vanno; swiping his cheek. Vanno leans back on a tree and Serpente tries to slash him again. Vanno dodges this and falls on the ground. Serpente is about to stab him again but Vanno grabs a thick branch and Serpente stabs his knife into it. Vanno pushes him back with this and runs. Serpente throws the thick branch off his knife and looks around. Vanno runs towards the car. He crawls underneath it, panting. Another car pulls up, illuminating the Vanetti car. Vanno sees Arturo's body; his throat slashed and eyes wide. Vanno is infuriated. Three men walk up. Serpente says that there is still one man as he wipes his bloody knife on Arturo's coat. This infuriates him even more. One of the men walk over to the Vanetti's car. He looks around, nervous, and spots three men shining their flashlight at the car. One of the men start the car as the other car drives away with the supplies.

At the Vanetti Mansion, a band plays and people dance. In their wedding attire, people surround Fio and Ronald to congratulate them. Vanno downs a glass of alcohol. Vanno tells Nero that it's war against the Orcos now. Nero pats his cheek, smiling. This angers Vanno as he bats his hand away. Still smiling, Nero says that he must have clung to the underside of the truck to escape and that it was smart thinking of him.

Avilio approaches, holding a briefcase, and Corteo walks slightly behind him, looking uncomfortable. Nero, smiling, says that he's late. Avilio opens his case to show five bottles of Lawless Heaven. Nero whistles and says that his dad will love it. Nero sticks a cigar in his mouth and starts to pull out his wallet. Avilio smiles and says that it's a gift. Corteo is taken back by this. Avilio looks to the side and says that he realizes that it hardly compares to a car, wrapped as a gift. Nero says that it's a Phantom from the Galassias. Vanno seems annoyed by this. Nero takes a sip from a jar and says that it's good stuff. Nero gestures over to the table and says that the groom is the nephew of Don Galassia; the guy who controls Chicago. The three look at him unhappily. Vanno says that the Vanettis own Lawless and they don't need the Galassias' help. Avilio says that's funny, as he heard they lost some turf downtown to the Orco family. Vanno yells that he'd better watch his mouth. Avilio doesn't react to this but it surprised when someone calls out to Nero.

Barbero says that his father is calling him. Nero smiles and says sure. He introduces him as the brains of his operation. He introduces him to Avilio and Corteo. Barbero smiles and shakes their hands. Nero tells them to have fun before walking away. Corteo quietly asks what he was thinking, they came because they needed money. Avilio pulls out a cigarette and light it. Looking uncomfortable, Corteo says that need to get out of there. Angelo says that it's a party and they should enjoy themselves. Corteo looks more put off by this.

In Vince's office, Vince asks how the Playhouse is coming along. Nero says that it's all going smoothly and should be done by the end of June. Del Toro stands silently behind Vince. Frate says to his brother that Don Galassia decided to come to the big opening. He says they have three months, then the Vannetis, Orcos, and Galassias will be in the same place. Though Frate is happy about this, Nero doesn't look at him as he says "So what?" Frate says that he knows the Orcos have been overstepping lately, but they have to do as the Galassias say, too, suddenly unhappy. Nero says that they do as well.

Vince takes a drag of his cigar before saying that he doesn't have much time left. Frate says that that's why Fio is marrying Galassia's nephew. He says that Ronald's a good and trustworthy guy. He starts to say that there's nothing to worry about, before Nero cuts him off, saying that that killed another one of theirs. Frate looks away before smiling and saying that it's because they stole Orco's booze. This infuriates Nero and he says that the route was theirs until three months ago. He says that a family that can't protect their own turf has no future.

After taking another drag, Vince asks if he'd like a cigar. Vince says that when one smokes, they inhale time. He says that they must act carefully and if they go too fast, they'll trip. Frate seems annoyed by this and Nero says that God helps those who help themselves before walking out.

While staring at Ronald and Fio, Vanno stuffs a cupcake in his mouth. As Ronald pulls Fio toward himself, Vanno curses at Ronald to Barbero. He says that if he makes Fio cry, he'll beat the crap out of him. Barbero says that he seems to be in a foul mood.

Ronald notices them and smiles and begins walking over to them. Smiling, Barbero says that it seems "Master Ronald" is paying them a call. Vanno scoffs and looks away while Barbero rises and congratulates him. Ronald ignores him and walks past him to Vanno. He pours himself a glass from an adjacent table. He says that he's now officially a member of the family and asks where Nero is. Barbero says that the don requested his presence. Ronald looks annoyed and asks that he won't even attend his own daughter's wedding. Then smiling, he says that too much caution just becomes cowardice.

Infuriated, Vanno stands and seems to be about to attack him. Barbero quickly stands between them and says that they're keeping it within the family, but he's staying indoors on his doctor's recommendation. Ronald says that he'll fix their little Orco problem for them, but that he doesn't understand the point of fighting over "this backwater burg." Vanno tries to charge at Ronald, but Barbero holds him back.

The three are interrupted when Angelo says that it's funny. Annoyed, Ronald puts his glass down and asks what is. Corteo sits at the table behind him. Avilio finishes "Watching an ass strut around in a lion's skin." Ronald laughs slightly then suddenly throws a punch at him. Avilio quickly stands to the side, dodging him, and he falls on top of Corteo's table. Ronald stands and is about to try and punch him again when Vanno pulls him back. Vanno twists his arm and Ronald asks who the hell he thinks he is before he twists harder. Barbero steps in and tells Vanno to stop immediately.

Fio interrupts, asking what's wrong. Vanno lets go and Ronald shoves Barbero before walking away. The two look ashamed as Fio scolds them before walking towards her husband. They sit back at their table and see Fio comfort her husband, he pulls her close by her back as they walk away. Vanno throws his hand up in annoyance before stuffing a cake in his mouth. Barbero says that teetotalers have it rough.

Avilio and Corteo walk up to their table and Avilio puts a jar on the table and asks what he thinks. Barbero adjust his glasses and asks if it is the liquor they mentioned. Barbero pulls himself a glass and Avilio watches him, smiling. Barbero chokes a bit and says that it's got quite a kick and asks where they make it. Still smiling, Avilio looks toward Corteo. Corteo, looking uncomfortable, says in the kitchen of his apartment. Vanno laughs at Barbero's shock and says that he hasn't seen that look on his face in ages. Barbero smiles and asks if they can talk in private. Corteo is shocked and looks at Angelo, he smiles and nods back. Barbero puts his hand on Corteo and they walk away together.

Smiling, Vanno says that Avilio has a way with words. Avilio smiles and Vanno says that he doesn't think they'd been introduced. Vanno extends his hand and introduces himself as Vanno Clemente. Avilio shakes his hand and introduces himself as Avilio Bruno. He says that he thinks they'll make a good team.

Later that day in the cellar, Vanno tells the group to enjoy their stew as he puts bowls in front of Barbero, Nero, Tigre, and himself. He calls it Maestro Vanno's special Lawless-style cioppino. Smiling, Nero rubs his hands together and says that it looks great. He's about to eat some before Vanno scolds him, beginning to pray. Nero sighs and bows his head as well. Vanno says grace and they begin eating.

Tigre takes a spoonful in his mouth, but then recoils in pain and throws his spoon on the table. Barbero asks if it still hurts as Tigre rubs his cheek. Tigre grabs some chew and says that he won't be eating for a while. Smiling, Vanno pours Tigre's bowl into his own and says that Avilio's pretty interesting. Barbero smiles as well and says that Corteo also makes a mean brew. Nero smiles and says that maybe they won't have to press things with the Orcos. Suddenly concerned, Vanno asks if he asked his father about it. Nero doesn't answer, so he asks if they're taking Fango out. With says that they aren't. Vanno is taken back and demands to know why. Nero says that Galassia wants the Vanettis and the Orcos to make nice. Vanno slams his fist on the table and stands, asking how Tronco is supposed to rest in peace. He says that he'll do it himself if he has to. Barbero asks if he's drunk, even if he could beat the Orcos, the Galassias, but Vanno cuts him off and says that they won't know it they don't try. He says that they need funds first, so if they have the booze, but Nero cuts him off and smiles, saying that they'll kill him. They other three men are surprised. Nero says that they won't be the ones pulling the trigger.

In Corteo's apartment, Avilio says he'll do it. Corteo asks if he's serious and Avilio asks if he takes Fango out, he'll be able to join the family. Vanno says that it's a dangerous job and they recently killed one of their young guys. Avilio asks to let him try. Vanno pulls out his gun and bullets, and slides it across the table to him. He tells him on Wednesday night, he'll be spending time at Lacrima's apartment. Avilio takes it and asks who she is. Vanno says that she's Fango's mistress and that her apartment is across from the Lawless Chronicle. Avilio asks what he should do about her. Vanno looks down and rubs the back of his head. He says that he can kill her as well. Vanno asks if he'd ever killed before. Avilio says he hadn't, so Vanno says that he's getting a late start then. He looks up, and scratches his chin, starting to talk about his first kill. He trails off and stands up, saying he'll be in touch later. He pats Avilio's shoulder and then leaves.

After he leaves the room, Corteo says that teaming up with him is insane. Avilio agrees and says that the whole world's gone mad. Corteo looks horrified at him and then Avilio hands him the letter. Angelo says that they claim to be his dad's best friend and want to help him with his revenge. He light his cigarette and says that it's bizarre and explains that they claim to be his dad's best friend, and want to help him with his revenge and that He's been handed everything, even the names of the men who stole the people he loved. Corteo reads through it, horrified.

On Wednesday night, parked outside Lacrima's, Cerotto leafs happily through a stack of money in the backseat of a car. In the front seat, Vanno says that he'll get the other half after he succeeds. Cerotto agrees and slides it into his coat. Avilio hands Cerotto a bottle and tells him he'll be fine. Cerotto takes a swig and then hands it back. Avilio also takes a swig, but instead spits a mist on his coat sleeve as Cerotto stares in awe.

Serpente sits in a car close to the buildings entrance. He notices Avilio stumbling towards the entrance and sitting on the steps. Angry, he gets out of his car and walks towards him. Serpente tells him that he stinks and asks how soused he is. He then kicks him and says that he can't sleep there. Avilio looks up, but his face is covered by a scarf and a toque, and says that his friend lives there. Serpente yells that he doesn't care and kicks Avilio onto the sidewalk; face down. Serpente kicks his again before Cerotto yells out to him. He runs over and, smiling, offers him some alcohol from his flask. He suggests that they go to the car, as they're too conspicuous there. Serpente kicks Avilio's stomach before fallowing him. As soon as Avilio sees them enter the car, he stands and enters the building.

Avilio goes upstairs and picks one of the lock on Lacrima's appartment. Inside, Fango can be heard asking someone to do it "harder" a few times. Avilio takes off his face scarf.

Outside, Vanno drives his car past the entrance and Serpente, who is laying back in his car, drinking from the flask.

Inside Lacrima's bedroom, Fango pants with slashes and blood across his back and his arms tied above his head. Smiling, he looks back and tells her to keep going. Lacrima smiles and begins whipping his back; calling him a pig. He begins panting and smiling. He turns around and looks in the mirror, only to see Avilio pointing a gun wrapped in his scarf. He quickly flips over as Avilio fires. Fango falls onto the ground and Lacrima is knocked back as she screams.

Smiling, Fango asks if his mother ever taught him to knock as he fishes something out of his pocket. Avilio approaches Lacrima with his gun drawn. She begs him not to kill her but he motions her to move over. Lacrima doesn't understand and Fango uses this as an opportunity to quickly move a knife in front of her neck. Fango says that he likes it and that he's getting chills all over. He says it's getting fun and asks if he wants to join in and dares him to fire. Lacrima again begs him not to as Fango begins reaching behind him for his gun. Fango pushes his gun into her armpit and begins pushing it in and out slowly, in a sexual manner. Fango again tells him to shoot one off already. Fango shoots, missing Angelo barely but injuring Lacrima's armpit. He then pushes her onto the ground and begins shooting at him.

Outside, Serpente hears the gunshots and sits up. Avilio shoots back, but misses as well. Fango returns fire and Avilio hides behind the wall. Fango manages to grab his clothes and runs out the window in only his pants. He jumps from the balcony in and barely manages to make it onto the adjacent roof, cutting his foot in the process. Avilio runs out behind him. He aims at him but Serpente suddenly barges in, stopping him. Serpente recognizes him but, before he can do anything, Vanno clocks him with his gun and Serpente collapses on the bed. Avilio walks in and Vanno asks where Fango is. Avilio looks down to see Lacrima laying on the ground, crying, shaking, and bleeding from her armpit. Vanno asks if he got away and Avilio says that he had and apologizes. Vanno says that they knew he was a tough one and that it's not his fault.

Vanno looks down at Serpente and notices his knife; he realizes that he is the same man as before as the handle looks like a serpent. He tells Avilio that he's the one who killed Arturo Tronco. Avilio asks if it will make trouble; a Vanetti killing an Orco. Vanno says that they'll go to the graveyard in the old village. Suddenly, sirens can be heard in the distance and Avilio says he'll meet him there.

Vanno arrives in his car and takes Serpente from the car. Serpente's arms are tied behind his back and holds a gun to his head as they walk forward. Vanno prays and apologizes for his sins. They arrive at a grave and Vanno says that this is where they laid Arturo to rest. He tells Serpente that he was a good guy and he liked cars. As the sun rises, Vanno tells him to start praying as he undoes his gag. Serpente kneels on the ground and begs for his life as Vanno raises his gun, saying he doesn't want to die and promises not to kill anyone ever again and to cut ties with Orco and Fango. He asks if he would kill him in front of Tronco. Vanno asks if he isn't going to pray. Serpente begs him not to and yells that he doesn't want to die. Vanno coldly says that he sees before shooting Serpente to death. He falls to ground and Vanno asks God to have mercy on Serpente's soul as he crosses himself. Behind him, Avilio can be seen in the shadows of the trees.

''It flashes back to when Avilio showed the letter to Corteo. Avilio tells him that, that night, the ones who killed his family were Vincent Vanetti, his son Nero and Vanno Clemente.''

As soon as Vanno turns around, Avilio shoots him before he can react and Vanno drops his gun as he begins bleeding from his stomach. He gapes in shock as he clutches his stomach and falls to the ground. Vanno asks who he is. He says that his name is Angelo and he's the son of Testa Lagusa. Vanno gasps before Angelo shoots him again.

Back at the cellar, Nero suddenly punches Angelo in the face, knocking him back. Barbero steps between them and tells him to calm down, saying they should hear his side of the story first. Angelo wipes his mouth and says that Serpente stole Vanno's gun. He says that he shot Serpente, but it was too late. Barbero asks if his hands were tied. Avilio says that Serpente said he'd let Avilio pray, then he tied up Vanno. Nero tells him to take him to where it happened.

At the graveyard, Angelo walks in front of Barbero and Nero. He says that it's over there. As the scene comes into view, Angelo is shocked to find Vanno lying flat on the ground, but Serpente's body is nowhere to be found. Nero pushes his gun into Angelo's back, so he slowly looks over his shoulder.

Character Appearances

 * Vanno Clemente
 * Arturo Tronco
 * Serpente
 * Ronald Galassia
 * Fio Vanetti
 * Nero Vanetti
 * Angelo Lagusa
 * Corteo
 * Barbero
 * Vincent Vanetti
 * Del Toro
 * Frate Vanetti
 * Tigre
 * Cerotto
 * Fango
 * Lacrima