Romeo and Julian return to New York under the cover of darkness, using forged documents and disguises to avoid detection. They make contact with Sofia, who has arranged a secret meeting with key members of both families. The city feels different now, colder and more hostile than before. Every corner, every shadow, feels like a threat.
The meeting is tense. Both families are suspicious, and the air is thick with distrust. Romeo and Julian present their case, arguing that continued fighting will only lead to more loss and suffering. They propose a truce, a division of territories that would allow both families to coexist without further bloodshed.
To their surprise, there is a moment of consideration. Some of the older members, tired of the endless violence, seem open to the idea. But just as it seems like they might have a chance, Antonio arrives with his faction, guns drawn.
