CHAPTER 3: The Pakhan's Invitation

CIMITERO DELLA FAMIGLIA DE LUCA

Five days after Giovanni Bianchi’s death, the De Luca family gathered at their private cemetery—rows of marble tombstones standing as monuments to their legacy. The mourners, dressed in black, surrounded the flower-draped coffin. A framed photo of Giovanni sat atop it, marking the grave of the man who had once been their consigliere.

The priest began solemnly. “We gather to honor Giovanni Bianchi—a man of loyalty, honor, and service to La Famiglia De Luca. His legacy lives on in those he touched.”

The crowd bowed their heads in silence, the weight of grief heavy in the air.

Then the priest turned to Ivan De Luca. “Don De Luca, would you like to say a few words?”

Dressed in black, Ivan stepped forward, voice strained with emotion. “Giovanni was not only our consigliere, but also my friend, my brother. I often urged him to settle down, but he lived life on his own terms—fearless, loyal, irreplaceable.”

His tone shifted, voice cold and fierce. “But his life was stolen—taken by the cowards of La Mano Roja. They will pay. We will not forgive. We will not forget.”

He paused, then added with remorse, “I’m sorry. I failed to protect him. My heart is heavy, but justice will be done.”

The grave was filled, the sound of dirt against the coffin echoing like finality. One by one, mafia leaders offered their condolences—Benito Morano, Capo of the Morano family, among them.

“Giovanni was a good man,” Benito said. “May his soul rest, and may your strength guide you through this.”

Others from the Esposito, Conti, and Rizzo families followed, each expressing respect for the fallen consigliere.

As the mourners departed, the De Lucas remained behind—quiet, grieving, but burning with purpose. Justice was no longer an option. It was a vow.

*********

As the mourners finished paying their respects, the grave was adorned with an array of flowers, candles, and other tributes. The Capo stood before the grave, his eyes fixed on the nameplate that bore Giovanni Bianchi's name. He took a deep breath, his chest heavy with grief and anger.

Ronan, who had been overseeing the burial arrangements, approached the Capo and nodded respectfully. "It is done, Don De Luca," he said, his voice low and somber.

The Capo's gaze lingered on the grave for a moment, and then he nodded slowly. La Famiglia De Luca's people dispersed, leaving only the Capo's closest associates and family members.

The Capo turned to his family and nodded again. Together, they turned to leave the cemetery. The atmosphere was heavy with sorrow, but also with a sense of respect and dignity.

The Capo walked slowly, his eyes scanning the faces of those around him. He knew that he had the support of his community, and that they would stand by him in the days ahead. The sound of footsteps on the gravel path was the only sound that broke the silence.

As they walked out of the cemetery, the Capo's thoughts turned to the future. He knew that he had a duty to fulfill, a promise to keep. Giovanni Bianchi's death would not go unpunished. The Capo's eyes narrowed, his jaw clenched in determination. He would make sure that those responsible for Giovanni's death would pay for their treachery.

SAINT PETERSBURG, RUSSIA (THE BRATVA'S EMPIRE)

The Pakhan sat in his office, surrounded by a small team of advisors. "It's time to finalize the guest list for my birthday celebration," he said.

One of his advisors spoke up. "Sir, what about the Lafamiglia De Luca? I heard they just lost their consigliere."

The room fell silent for a moment. "Really? That's unfortunate," another advisor said.

The Pakhan nodded thoughtfully. "What do you think? Should we invite them?"

One of his advisors spoke up. "At least this party might bring them some ease. They're going through a tough time. If they're interested in attending, let's send them an invitation."

The Pakhan nodded. "Very well. If they're interested, send them an invitation. It will be interesting to see if they attend."

The meeting adjourned, and the team began making the necessary arrangements.

PALERMO, SICILY (LA FAMIGLIA DE LUCA EMPIRE)

As the morning sun cast its golden glow over the city, Ronan entered Ivan's study. "Sir, Barino Moretti is waiting to see you."

Ivan nodded, and Ronan ushered Barino into the study.

Barino bowed slightly. "Ivan, I've come to discuss something with you. We've received an invitation from the Pakhan. He's celebrating his birthday, and he's invited us to attend."

Ivan's eyes widened in shock and excitement. "What? How did you manage that?"

Barino smiled. "There's no need to know the details, sir. The main thing is that we've received the invitation. I told you I'd handle it, and I have."

Ivan's excitement grew. "This is incredible! We'll attend the party, and I'll make sure to make a good impression. This could be the opportunity we've been waiting for."

Barino nodded. "I'll make the necessary arrangements, sir."

Ivan's face set in determination. "I must make sure the Pakhan accepts our alliance. I won't fail my people for the second time. This is our chance to secure our future. And making sure the La Mano Rojas pay for the loss of our Consigliere”.