Chapter Six: The Queen's Chessboard

Leo's submission granted me absolute control over the family's armed forces. The Villani Family war machine now obeyed only my will. Luciano, my father and former Don, witnessed my thunderous methods and chose tacit approval. He likely realized I was better suited for this dark throne than he ever was. My next target was the complete annihilation of the Massimo Family. But I wouldn't use conventional means. I sought not merely victory, but an artistic, flawless murder worthy of being etched into the annals of Mafia history. In the name of my family, I sent a letter to the Massimo Family. Its contents were simple: I offered to surrender Roco as a witness and cede three northern city blocks in exchange for peace. The negotiation was set for seven days hence, aboard a neutral cruise ship on the open ocean. This show of weakness stunned everyone. “Vera, have you lost your mind? We just won!” Leo asked, bewildered. “War is a barbarian's game,” I said calmly, gazing at the dark empire beyond