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SICILIA
[Against the backdrop of a dark screen, we hear the sounds of digging with a shovel, and then a collapse.]
1904
[A man lights a match in the darkness and brings it to a kerosene lamp, creating at least a little light in the kingdom of darkness. We see that the man is actually two - one holds the lamp while the other burns matches to increase the amount of light. They appear to be in some kind of mine. The man holding the lamp has dark skin and a hairstyle resembling an "afro." He is quite young - looks about 25 years old. The other man is shaved bald, but relatively long ago, so stubble is showing on his head. He is about the same age. Both men are wearing vests and pants made of thick, possibly linen fabric. They look dirty, worn out, and exhausted from hard work but maintain a cheerful spirit.]
GAETANO: We're down here too long Enzo, they'll notice we're gone. Come on.
TREMORI
[They both carefully move through the mine, looking around, afraid of causing another collapse.]
GAETANO: Alright. Let's grab it and get out of here.
ENZO: Look at this place. What if it's already buried?
GAETANO: Then we dig it out. There's no way I'm leaving without it.
ENZO: We can't be too long. Anyone sees us down here, we'll catch hell.
GAETANO: Who cares? One more tremor, we'll be buried here, too. This was the spot. Check under that rubble.
[Enzo slowly starts to clear the debris.]
GAETANO: Come on. Get it out.
ENZO: Here.
[He carefully takes out a box wrapped in a red scarf, containing money. They joyfully count it.]
GAETANO: We're nearly there.
[The box also contained a photograph, which GAETANO kisses, and a handmade toy with the inscription "Enzo." Apparently, the guys came to retrieve their savings.]
GAETANO: You taking that?
ENZO: No.
[He throws away the toy. Upon closer inspection, it's a clumsily carved wooden horse. They continue to slowly walk through the tunnels.]
GAETANO: What's with that stupid toy anyway?
ENZO: I've had it since I was brought here. My father left it with me.
GAETANO: How thoughtful of him.
ENZO: Hope it bring us out somewhere quiet. Don't want to be caught with that on you.
GAETANO: Just keep your head down and stay out of trouble. Think you can do that?
ENZO: Strùnzu (jerk)... I only get in trouble covering for you.
GAETANO: Will you speak to your father? When you get out?
ENZO: The bastard who sold me to this place to pay off his dents? If I saw him again, I'll kill him.
GAETANO: Nearly there. Come on.
NOTICE - MINE DECOMMISSIONED
NO ENTRY BEYOND THIS POINT
Due to increasing instability, as of the 12th of August, 1904, the lower tunnels of the South Mine will be permanently decommissioned.
All workers will be reassigned to a new area.
Full closure will be executed thereafter, by means of explosive.
Sig. Ruggero Spadaro
ENZO: Better keep that money hidden up there.
GAETANO: You think I'm going to flash it around? After all these years saving?
ENZO: Just be careful. People are desperate.
GAETANO: All this will behind us soon. Until then don't let any of these bastards get to you, alright?
[They come out to the miners.]
MINER: Where have you been?
GAETANO: What's it to you?
MINER: Sfacciato (cheeky). Il Merlo's around. See if you talk to him that way.
[They walk towards Il Merlo, overhearing conversations of other miners along the way.]
CARUSU: Si, signore.
MINER: Not much left here... They'll move us to the East Mine before long.
MINER: So be it. No use complaining, not if you want the work.
[They enter Il Merlo's "office" - a small nook in the mine where he is tormenting a poor soul sitting on the sand.]
IL MERLO: Move! On your feet. Get that up top.
MINER: Signore, my ankle. I can't.
IL MERLO: What?
MINER: Please, I can't.
[Il Merlo grabs him by the neck and pins him against a support beam.]
IL MERLO: There is no 'can't', not down here.
ENZO: I'll do it.
IL MERLO: Take him away.
[The poor soul, who can barely move, is led away.]
IL MERLO: I saw the veterinarian up with the horses, if he needs putting down.
[Il Merlo approaches Enzo, who has already started working and is hauling rocks. Il Merlo speaks quietly and very menacingly.]
IL MERLO: Stick your nose where it does not belong again, and you just might lose it.
[Enzo and Gaetano fill woven baskets with rocks and carry them through the tunnels.]
IL MERLO: (screams to the miners) Back to work! All of you!
GAETANO: Picking fights with II Merlo in front of everybody? Is that keeping your head down?
ENZO: Someone had to help him.
GAETANO: Anyone ever helped you? We're getting out of here, don't ruin things.
MINER: Late finish today, boys?
GAETANO: You know us. Always working hard.
MINE GUARD: Take that to the kiln. Now.
MINE GUARD: Baskets here.
[They carry the baskets out of the mine.]
GAETANO: Time to eat. You hungry?
ENZO: You have to ask?
ENZO: Good thing we moved the money. Any more tremors, it would be buried.
GAETANO: Like I told you. Having it out here's risky, but it's that or losing it all.
[They walk down a path from a small mountain towards the town. They pass many miners on the way.]
MINER: They should stop all work, close the mine. There could be more tremors any moment.
MINER: Spadaro can't afford to close it. Don't be surprised if they ask you.
GAETANO Bedda matri (Beautiful Mother!), look at that. That smoke... Doesn't look good.
ENZO: Think we should be worried?
GAETANO: Come on. Say a prayer to Santa Barbara if it'll make you feel better.
MINER: They still want us to hit our quotas? They're out of their minds?
MINER: You finished?
MINER: Nor even close. Shifts are getting longer. Every time I come up for air, they send me back down.
[Enzo passes by a small shrine and decides to pray.]
ENZO: Nel nom de Padre, Figlio e dello Spirito Santo. Protect us. Just a little longer.
GAETANO: You think she watching over us?
ENZO: We're still here, aren't we?
GAETANO: Can't argue with that.
[They notice that the food distribution tent is still open.]
GAETANO: Good. Ignazio hasn't packed up yet. Let's see what he has today.
[Enzo leans on the counter and casually asks.]
ENZO: Hey Ignazio, what do we have today?
IGNAZIO: You're too late.
GAETANO: Cchi minchia é?
IGNAZIO: Not my problem. Want to complain? Take it to Spadaro. Want to eat tomorrow? Get a watch.
[The guys leave hungry.]
GAETANO: You know what this means?
[They decide who will go on the "job" by playing rock-paper-scissors. Enzo loses.]
ENZO: Minchia!
GAETANO: Your turn, brother.
ENZO: Madone...
GAETANO: Head to the building at the back. They moved the food there after the rats got into it last week.
ENZO: So much for keeping our heads down.
GAETANO: Just don't get caught. I'll distract the guards if they're in your way. Good, delivery's here. Should make it easier for you.
[They crouch down and start sneaking across the territory.]
GAETANO: You sneak into the storeroom. I'll meet you on the other side. Alright, you know what to do. I'll be waiting around the back.
MINE GUARD: Romano, you done with your count? Delivery's here!
MINE GUARD: Almost.
MINE GUARD: Pick it up later. These crates need unloading.
MINE GUARD: Strùnzu...
[The guard leaves, allowing Enzo to proceed.]
MINE GUARD: You think Gino's skimming?
MINE GUARD: Not this again.
MINE GUARD: What?
MINE GUARD: You don't remember the last driver? What Spadaro did to him?
MINE GUARD: I was right, wasn't I?
STAKEHOLDER FRICTION
12th July 1904
TENSIONS ERUPT AT MINING GIANT
Tensions between Baron Raffaele Fontanella and Signor Girolamo Ludovici, principal shareholders of the Compagnia Mineraria del Mediterraneo Centrale, have unsettled investors. The mine, historically tied to the Fontanella family has become a source of conflict as the Baron resists Ludovici's aggressive plans to expand operations and modernize the business.
Labor concerns and the potential effects on the landscape raised by Fontanella were opposed by Ludovici, who pushed that reacting to dwindling global demand for Sicilian sulfur should be their priority.
At a recent shareholder meeting, heated exchanges overshadowed discussions on profitability, with fears that the feud could destabilize the company. Shareholders have expressed unease about the growing discord, which threatens to undermine confidence in the board's governance.
One investor commented that "progress must balance tradition and sustainability." The future of this enterprise now hinges on whether these two influential figures can reconcile their differences and chart a unified path forward.
MINE GUARD: With the volcano, the tremors... No one wants to work.
MINE GUARD: Wouldn't catch me down there. But hey, that's the job.
ENZO: Come on, Gaetano, where are you...
[Someone throws an empty bottle that shatters and attracts the guard's attention.]
MINE GUARD: Can't handle a simple task?
MINE GUARD: It wasn't me!
MINE GUARD: Horseshit. Spadaro'll be on my back about this. Clean it up!
ENZO: That'll do.
[Enzo enters a toolshed, but the next door is locked.]
ENZO: Locked. Of course. Could force it open....
[He pulls out a small knife stuck in a workbench and examines it. He uses the knife to pick the lock on the warehouse door.]
LETTER - BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Compagnia Mineraria del Mediterraneo Centrale
16th July 1904
Dear Signor Spadaro,
We are writing to inform you that your recent request for new tools has been denied at this time.
While your argument that higher quality tools will increase productivity is sound, the cost of providing these tools across so large a site is not financially viable without increased profit in the short term.
Any further outlay on machinery should be considered contingent upon a sustained rise in output. We continue to recommend that opening new shafts and extending operational hours is the surest route to achieving this.
Sincerely,
The Board of Directors Compagnia Minerana del Mediterraneo Centrale
DELIVERY INVOICE - POLICARODO SUPPLIES
Trading Invoice Policardo Supplies
7th of August, 1904
To be settled by Sig. Ruggero Spadaro, Minsera di Collezolfo, Collezolfo.
Bread - Skg _____ 2.5 lire
Fratelli Galante Canned Tuna - 20 units ___ 30.85 lire
Montalto Macaroni - 10kg ____ 7 lire
Fava Beans - 8kg ____ 5.44 lire
The extras, for the wolves, are tucked in tight with the bread.
Delivered by: Gino
ENZO: Ah, there it is.
[He notices Il Merlo passing by on the street.]
IL MERLO: They'll work, I'll make sure of it.
[Enzo, grabbing some bread from a crate, climbs out the window where his friend is already waiting.]
ENZO: Help me. Come on! That window's getting smaller.
GAETANO: Any luck?
[He happily gives him the bread.]
GAETANO: Let's get inside, eat this in peace.
[They walk along a dusty road and talk.]
ENZO: Minchia! What was the hold-up back there?
GAETANO: Had to take a piss. Bad timing, I know. Thought you were going to get caught when il Merlo turned up.
ENZO: Did you hear what they said? About the East Mine?
GAETANO: East Mine's nothing to do with us. We pay off our debts, no distractions, and we get out of here.
[They enter the camp.]
IGNAZIO: You look happy for two idiots who haven't eaten. What've you got to smile about?
GAETANO: None of your business. Go back to kissing Spadaro's ass.
IGNAZIO: Testa 'i minchia, watch your mouth!
NOTICE - EXTRA SHIFTS
NOTICE TO ALL WORKERS
Effective Immediately
To meet growing demand and compensate for lost time due to the recent tremors, an additional shift is to be added to each working day, paid at the regular rate.
Any workers picking up these shifts will be expected to clear debris in allocated shafts, alongside their usual responsibilities.
We urge all hardworking picuneri to consider this opportunity. Those unwilling to participate may find their seams offered to others more willing to seize the chance for work. Let us together secure a prosperous future for all.
By order of Sig. Ruggero Spadaro
[They enter their barracks, where besides our heroes, about a dozen other workers live. The furnishings are more than modest - straw beds on the floor, a few wooden crates, and a bucket for relieving oneself. The guys tiredly sit down on their straw beds.]
GAETANO: Few months left. Not long now.
[He takes out the postcard that was in the box. On the worn front is a picture of a city and the inscription "Empire Bay."]
GAETANO: Read this again for me, will you?
ENZO: "Dearest nephew, I hope this message reaches you in good health. I washed up again-in America and, this time, I've decided to stay." "Write to me, if you can. Better still, join me here. I'll buy you steak and eggs for breakfast. My fondest regards, Uncle Silvio".
GAETANO: La Merica! Steak and eggs! Once we're paid up, I'm on the first boat over.
ENZO: I'm going far away from this place Gaetano. Never coming back. Bastards would have to kill me first.
[Suddenly, two men burst into the barracks.]
IGNAZIO: All of you, out!
GAETANO: Ey! We're finished.
IGNAZIO: Not today. Double-shifts. Spadaro's orders.
GAETANO: Can you believe this?
IGNAZIO: Hurry up!
[All the workers exit the barracks. Gaetano reaches under his pillow and takes the savings.]
IL MERLO: You don't want to work. then clear the way for someone who does.
MINER: Nobody's working down there until it's checked out.
IL MERLO: Testa 'i minchia!
[A rough-looking man in an expensive green suit enters, pushing the dirty miners aside.]
DON SPADARO: Out of the way! Who is wasting my fucking time?
L'OMBRA: Wretches won't dig-
MINER: Don Spadaro. Federico's crew has not returned from the new deposit. Something's not right.
DON SPADARO: So sorry to hear that. I'll remember to say a prayer for them.
MINER: There have been tremors. Supports could've collapsed, gas could've leaked, anything.
DON SPADARO: We'll be sure to look into it. Now get back to work!
[On the last word, he raises his voice and makes a sweeping gesture with his hand. The miner bows his head in resignation and leaves. The Don approaches his subordinate, il Merlo.]
DON SPADARO: Send someone down there!
[Il Merlo immediately notices Enzo, who likes to do others' work, and theatrically reaches out his hands towards him.]
IL MERLO: Carusu! You like making yourself useful, don't you? I've got just the job.
[The guys have to go to a dangerous mine. And they didn't even get to eat.]
THE DEEP MINE
IL MERLO: New deposit's a long way down, so no messing around. Find Federico and his carusi, and be quick about it.
ENZO: But what if there's gas?
IL MERLO: Should be lanterns down there. If you find one, take it with you. He knows what to do.
GAETANO: I'll go first.
MINER: They're going to the deep tunnels.
MINER: God help them.
IL MERLO: Off you go. Don't come back until you've found them.
GAETANO: Grab a lantern. If it flares, there's gris, gas, understand?
ENZO: What do we do then?
GAETANO: What do you think? We get the fuck out of here. They never sent you testing for gas before?
ENZO: I've only heard stories about this mine. Do you know where you're going?
GAETANO: I don't know it like the others. We need to stay close. Minchia! Closed off. Need to look for a connecting tunnel. Federico! You down here? Hm. Nothing.
NEW DEPOSITS - EAST MINE
Closed the access point to the first seam. Tunnel unstable, not safe until we get more supports. Direct route caved in. Need more men to shift the rocks.
Opened a smail passage to the neighboring tunnel. Seam just beyond here.
Water
Sulfur deposit
ENZO: It opens up over here!
GAETANO: I'm right behind you. Be careful, alright?
ENZO: This way's caved in. Hey! Under here.
[They find tools but see no workers anywhere.]
GAETANO: Their tools....
ENZO: If they're not work where are they? It's so quiet. You think something happened to them?
GAETANO: This is the deepest mine here, biggest too they're lost somewhere, we might never hear them.
[Enzo finds empty water containers.]
ENZO: Water's gone. Either they drank it all, or it dried up.
GAETANO: Working down here without water? Bedda matri... Only way forward is down there.
ENZO: Let's go. They could be in trouble.
[Enzo wants to carefully descend but slides down. His friend follows him.]
ENZO: Agh! Hey! Federico?
GAETANO: Shit. Where are they?
CATARINA'S LETTER
Federico, amuri miu
You work so hard for us, but we miss you terribly. All Nino does is ask where you are. Once you have saved enough money to come home, you must promise never to leave us again.
We will find you another job, something closer. Away from the mountain.
My father knows of a blacksmith who would consider you. We can discuss when you return. Counting down the days until I can hold you again.
Love, Catarina
[They find a corpse.]
ENZO: Cristo!
GAETANO: Gas? Maybe it's cleared, for now? We need to get out of here! We tell the men. They'll come pick them up when it's safe.
[But then an earthquake starts.]
GAETANO: Get down!
[However, the guys don't sustain significant injuries... but then their lamp flares up brighter and a hissing sound is heard from afar...]
GAETANO: Merda!
ENZO: Run!
[The guys run for their lives. Gas explosions occur here and there around them.]
GAETANO: Go! Now!
ENZO: We should war the others!
GAETANO: We will, when we're out! Keep running!
[They run, escaping the explosions and collapses.]
ENZO: Merda! No! Damn it!
GAETANO: Down here, come on!
[Enzo's leg gets pinned by a rock...]
ENZO: Get me out of here! I can't move!
GAETANO: Grab my hand!
[He helps his friend get out, and they continue running.]
GAETANO: Gas! We need to get out of here!
[As they run across a wooden bridge, it gives way under Enzo, who was second, and he falls onto the lower levels of the mine.]
ENZO: Agh!
[But Gaetano has already run to him and helps him climb up.]
GAETANO: Over here! Hurry! This way. Come on!
ENZO: Nearly there! Come on!
GAETANO: Go! Keep running!
ENZO: I see the way out! Hurry!
[Almost out of the mine, Gaetano checks his pockets and realizes he lost the money somewhere in the frantic rush...]
GAETANO: Minchia! The money!
ENZO: Forget it! We need to go!
[The money turns out to be dropped nearby, behind a narrow passage they just came through. In a hurry, Gaetano reaches for the money.]
ENZO: Forget it! We need to go! Gaetano!
GAETANO: I see it!
ENZO: Let's go!
GAETANO: I have it!
[However, part of the passage collapses.]
ENZO: No!
[He barely makes it out of the mine - Gaetano is beyond help. Emerging, Enzo sees that some miners have survived but are no longer on their feet. Il Merlo is yelling at the others as usual.]
IL MERLO: If you can walk, you can carry. Get all of this shifted.
L'OMBRA: These shafts need to be open.
[Enzo approaches them and, in a fit of anger and grief, screams at his boss.]
ENZO: Ey! You! You did this. You sent us down there!
IL MERLO: Mountain does as she will, boy.
L'OMBRA: Just get them back to work.
ENZO: Figgh'i buttana!
[In response, Enzo receives a sharp, powerful blow to the face and falls onto the sand.]
IL MERLO: Hold your tongue carusu if you want to keep it.
[However, Enzo gets up and pulls out that very knife from his pocket.]
IL MERLO: If that's what you want.
[He also pulls out a knife, and a fight begins.]
ENZO: Gaetano's dead because of you!
IL MERLO: Accidents happen. Don't do something you'll regret, carusu. Come on then, finish what you've started. Or are you scared?
ENZO: Bastaddu!
IL MERLO: You little fucking rat!
ENZO: You won't touch me.
IL MERLO: You see, boy? This is grown man's business.
ENZO: Sicominchia! You'll pay for what you did!
L'OMBRA: You fuckin up now, boy!
IL MERLO: Enough games! You wanted to fight, so fight like a man.
[He grabs both of Enzo's hands.]
IL MERLO: Lot of fight in you over a pile of bones.
[He throws Enzo onto the sand and gets distracted by a cracking sound coming from the canopy they are under. Enzo uses this opportunity, grabs the knife, and strikes, cutting il Merlo's cheek just below his left eye. He screams like a little girl, as if seeing his own blood for the first time.]
IL MERLO: Ahhh! Ahh! Figgh'i buttana!
[He moves to kill Enzo, but the canopy breaks, giving Enzo a chance to escape. He jumps and slides down a gentle slope. They start shooting at him, clearly intending to kill him on the spot. But Enzo escapes.]
L'OMBRA: Stop that carusu della minchia!
[Enzo mounts a horse that happened to run by.]
MINE GUARD: He has a horse! Get after him!
IL MERLO: Don't let him get away! You hear me?!
[However, Enzo manages to escape from the mining town. He rides as far as he can, and at this moment, we see the game's title sequence as if watching a TV series. Against the backdrop of beautiful shots, the names of the voice actors appear.]
Riccardo Frascari
as Enzo
Johnny Santiago
as Don Torrisi
Carina Conti
as Isabella
Christian Antidormi
as Cesare
Alberto Frezza
as Luca
Lane Townsend
as Don Spadaro
Anthony Skordi
as Tino
Tony Amendola
Mark Whitten
Carlo Rota
Davi Santos
Mateo d' Amato
Monique Hafen Adams
Gabriel Burrafato
Piotr Michael
Raphael Corkhill
Giancarlo Sabogal
[Against the backdrop of a dark screen, we hear the sounds of digging with a shovel, and then a collapse.]
1904
[A man lights a match in the darkness and brings it to a kerosene lamp, creating at least a little light in the kingdom of darkness. We see that the man is actually two - one holds the lamp while the other burns matches to increase the amount of light. They appear to be in some kind of mine. The man holding the lamp has dark skin and a hairstyle resembling an "afro." He is quite young - looks about 25 years old. The other man is shaved bald, but relatively long ago, so stubble is showing on his head. He is about the same age. Both men are wearing vests and pants made of thick, possibly linen fabric. They look dirty, worn out, and exhausted from hard work but maintain a cheerful spirit.]
GAETANO: We're down here too long Enzo, they'll notice we're gone. Come on.
TREMORI
[They both carefully move through the mine, looking around, afraid of causing another collapse.]
GAETANO: Alright. Let's grab it and get out of here.
ENZO: Look at this place. What if it's already buried?
GAETANO: Then we dig it out. There's no way I'm leaving without it.
ENZO: We can't be too long. Anyone sees us down here, we'll catch hell.
GAETANO: Who cares? One more tremor, we'll be buried here, too. This was the spot. Check under that rubble.
[Enzo slowly starts to clear the debris.]
GAETANO: Come on. Get it out.
ENZO: Here.
[He carefully takes out a box wrapped in a red scarf, containing money. They joyfully count it.]
GAETANO: We're nearly there.
[The box also contained a photograph, which GAETANO kisses, and a handmade toy with the inscription "Enzo." Apparently, the guys came to retrieve their savings.]
GAETANO: You taking that?
ENZO: No.
[He throws away the toy. Upon closer inspection, it's a clumsily carved wooden horse. They continue to slowly walk through the tunnels.]
GAETANO: What's with that stupid toy anyway?
ENZO: I've had it since I was brought here. My father left it with me.
GAETANO: How thoughtful of him.
ENZO: Hope it bring us out somewhere quiet. Don't want to be caught with that on you.
GAETANO: Just keep your head down and stay out of trouble. Think you can do that?
ENZO: Strùnzu (jerk)... I only get in trouble covering for you.
GAETANO: Will you speak to your father? When you get out?
ENZO: The bastard who sold me to this place to pay off his dents? If I saw him again, I'll kill him.
GAETANO: Nearly there. Come on.
NOTICE - MINE DECOMMISSIONED
NO ENTRY BEYOND THIS POINT
Due to increasing instability, as of the 12th of August, 1904, the lower tunnels of the South Mine will be permanently decommissioned.
All workers will be reassigned to a new area.
Full closure will be executed thereafter, by means of explosive.
Sig. Ruggero Spadaro
ENZO: Better keep that money hidden up there.
GAETANO: You think I'm going to flash it around? After all these years saving?
ENZO: Just be careful. People are desperate.
GAETANO: All this will behind us soon. Until then don't let any of these bastards get to you, alright?
[They come out to the miners.]
MINER: Where have you been?
GAETANO: What's it to you?
MINER: Sfacciato (cheeky). Il Merlo's around. See if you talk to him that way.
[They walk towards Il Merlo, overhearing conversations of other miners along the way.]
CARUSU: Si, signore.
MINER: Not much left here... They'll move us to the East Mine before long.
MINER: So be it. No use complaining, not if you want the work.
[They enter Il Merlo's "office" - a small nook in the mine where he is tormenting a poor soul sitting on the sand.]
IL MERLO: Move! On your feet. Get that up top.
MINER: Signore, my ankle. I can't.
IL MERLO: What?
MINER: Please, I can't.
[Il Merlo grabs him by the neck and pins him against a support beam.]
IL MERLO: There is no 'can't', not down here.
ENZO: I'll do it.
IL MERLO: Take him away.
[The poor soul, who can barely move, is led away.]
IL MERLO: I saw the veterinarian up with the horses, if he needs putting down.
[Il Merlo approaches Enzo, who has already started working and is hauling rocks. Il Merlo speaks quietly and very menacingly.]
IL MERLO: Stick your nose where it does not belong again, and you just might lose it.
[Enzo and Gaetano fill woven baskets with rocks and carry them through the tunnels.]
IL MERLO: (screams to the miners) Back to work! All of you!
GAETANO: Picking fights with II Merlo in front of everybody? Is that keeping your head down?
ENZO: Someone had to help him.
GAETANO: Anyone ever helped you? We're getting out of here, don't ruin things.
MINER: Late finish today, boys?
GAETANO: You know us. Always working hard.
MINE GUARD: Take that to the kiln. Now.
MINE GUARD: Baskets here.
[They carry the baskets out of the mine.]
GAETANO: Time to eat. You hungry?
ENZO: You have to ask?
ENZO: Good thing we moved the money. Any more tremors, it would be buried.
GAETANO: Like I told you. Having it out here's risky, but it's that or losing it all.
[They walk down a path from a small mountain towards the town. They pass many miners on the way.]
MINER: They should stop all work, close the mine. There could be more tremors any moment.
MINER: Spadaro can't afford to close it. Don't be surprised if they ask you.
GAETANO Bedda matri (Beautiful Mother!), look at that. That smoke... Doesn't look good.
ENZO: Think we should be worried?
GAETANO: Come on. Say a prayer to Santa Barbara if it'll make you feel better.
MINER: They still want us to hit our quotas? They're out of their minds?
MINER: You finished?
MINER: Nor even close. Shifts are getting longer. Every time I come up for air, they send me back down.
[Enzo passes by a small shrine and decides to pray.]
ENZO: Nel nom de Padre, Figlio e dello Spirito Santo. Protect us. Just a little longer.
GAETANO: You think she watching over us?
ENZO: We're still here, aren't we?
GAETANO: Can't argue with that.
[They notice that the food distribution tent is still open.]
GAETANO: Good. Ignazio hasn't packed up yet. Let's see what he has today.
[Enzo leans on the counter and casually asks.]
ENZO: Hey Ignazio, what do we have today?
IGNAZIO: You're too late.
GAETANO: Cchi minchia é?
IGNAZIO: Not my problem. Want to complain? Take it to Spadaro. Want to eat tomorrow? Get a watch.
[The guys leave hungry.]
GAETANO: You know what this means?
[They decide who will go on the "job" by playing rock-paper-scissors. Enzo loses.]
ENZO: Minchia!
GAETANO: Your turn, brother.
ENZO: Madone...
GAETANO: Head to the building at the back. They moved the food there after the rats got into it last week.
ENZO: So much for keeping our heads down.
GAETANO: Just don't get caught. I'll distract the guards if they're in your way. Good, delivery's here. Should make it easier for you.
[They crouch down and start sneaking across the territory.]
GAETANO: You sneak into the storeroom. I'll meet you on the other side. Alright, you know what to do. I'll be waiting around the back.
MINE GUARD: Romano, you done with your count? Delivery's here!
MINE GUARD: Almost.
MINE GUARD: Pick it up later. These crates need unloading.
MINE GUARD: Strùnzu...
[The guard leaves, allowing Enzo to proceed.]
MINE GUARD: You think Gino's skimming?
MINE GUARD: Not this again.
MINE GUARD: What?
MINE GUARD: You don't remember the last driver? What Spadaro did to him?
MINE GUARD: I was right, wasn't I?
STAKEHOLDER FRICTION
12th July 1904
TENSIONS ERUPT AT MINING GIANT
Tensions between Baron Raffaele Fontanella and Signor Girolamo Ludovici, principal shareholders of the Compagnia Mineraria del Mediterraneo Centrale, have unsettled investors. The mine, historically tied to the Fontanella family has become a source of conflict as the Baron resists Ludovici's aggressive plans to expand operations and modernize the business.
Labor concerns and the potential effects on the landscape raised by Fontanella were opposed by Ludovici, who pushed that reacting to dwindling global demand for Sicilian sulfur should be their priority.
At a recent shareholder meeting, heated exchanges overshadowed discussions on profitability, with fears that the feud could destabilize the company. Shareholders have expressed unease about the growing discord, which threatens to undermine confidence in the board's governance.
One investor commented that "progress must balance tradition and sustainability." The future of this enterprise now hinges on whether these two influential figures can reconcile their differences and chart a unified path forward.
MINE GUARD: With the volcano, the tremors... No one wants to work.
MINE GUARD: Wouldn't catch me down there. But hey, that's the job.
ENZO: Come on, Gaetano, where are you...
[Someone throws an empty bottle that shatters and attracts the guard's attention.]
MINE GUARD: Can't handle a simple task?
MINE GUARD: It wasn't me!
MINE GUARD: Horseshit. Spadaro'll be on my back about this. Clean it up!
ENZO: That'll do.
[Enzo enters a toolshed, but the next door is locked.]
ENZO: Locked. Of course. Could force it open....
[He pulls out a small knife stuck in a workbench and examines it. He uses the knife to pick the lock on the warehouse door.]
LETTER - BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Compagnia Mineraria del Mediterraneo Centrale
16th July 1904
Dear Signor Spadaro,
We are writing to inform you that your recent request for new tools has been denied at this time.
While your argument that higher quality tools will increase productivity is sound, the cost of providing these tools across so large a site is not financially viable without increased profit in the short term.
Any further outlay on machinery should be considered contingent upon a sustained rise in output. We continue to recommend that opening new shafts and extending operational hours is the surest route to achieving this.
Sincerely,
The Board of Directors Compagnia Minerana del Mediterraneo Centrale
DELIVERY INVOICE - POLICARODO SUPPLIES
Trading Invoice Policardo Supplies
7th of August, 1904
To be settled by Sig. Ruggero Spadaro, Minsera di Collezolfo, Collezolfo.
Bread - Skg _____ 2.5 lire
Fratelli Galante Canned Tuna - 20 units ___ 30.85 lire
Montalto Macaroni - 10kg ____ 7 lire
Fava Beans - 8kg ____ 5.44 lire
The extras, for the wolves, are tucked in tight with the bread.
Delivered by: Gino
ENZO: Ah, there it is.
[He notices Il Merlo passing by on the street.]
IL MERLO: They'll work, I'll make sure of it.
[Enzo, grabbing some bread from a crate, climbs out the window where his friend is already waiting.]
ENZO: Help me. Come on! That window's getting smaller.
GAETANO: Any luck?
[He happily gives him the bread.]
GAETANO: Let's get inside, eat this in peace.
[They walk along a dusty road and talk.]
ENZO: Minchia! What was the hold-up back there?
GAETANO: Had to take a piss. Bad timing, I know. Thought you were going to get caught when il Merlo turned up.
ENZO: Did you hear what they said? About the East Mine?
GAETANO: East Mine's nothing to do with us. We pay off our debts, no distractions, and we get out of here.
[They enter the camp.]
IGNAZIO: You look happy for two idiots who haven't eaten. What've you got to smile about?
GAETANO: None of your business. Go back to kissing Spadaro's ass.
IGNAZIO: Testa 'i minchia, watch your mouth!
NOTICE - EXTRA SHIFTS
NOTICE TO ALL WORKERS
Effective Immediately
To meet growing demand and compensate for lost time due to the recent tremors, an additional shift is to be added to each working day, paid at the regular rate.
Any workers picking up these shifts will be expected to clear debris in allocated shafts, alongside their usual responsibilities.
We urge all hardworking picuneri to consider this opportunity. Those unwilling to participate may find their seams offered to others more willing to seize the chance for work. Let us together secure a prosperous future for all.
By order of Sig. Ruggero Spadaro
[They enter their barracks, where besides our heroes, about a dozen other workers live. The furnishings are more than modest - straw beds on the floor, a few wooden crates, and a bucket for relieving oneself. The guys tiredly sit down on their straw beds.]
GAETANO: Few months left. Not long now.
[He takes out the postcard that was in the box. On the worn front is a picture of a city and the inscription "Empire Bay."]
GAETANO: Read this again for me, will you?
ENZO: "Dearest nephew, I hope this message reaches you in good health. I washed up again-in America and, this time, I've decided to stay." "Write to me, if you can. Better still, join me here. I'll buy you steak and eggs for breakfast. My fondest regards, Uncle Silvio".
GAETANO: La Merica! Steak and eggs! Once we're paid up, I'm on the first boat over.
ENZO: I'm going far away from this place Gaetano. Never coming back. Bastards would have to kill me first.
[Suddenly, two men burst into the barracks.]
IGNAZIO: All of you, out!
GAETANO: Ey! We're finished.
IGNAZIO: Not today. Double-shifts. Spadaro's orders.
GAETANO: Can you believe this?
IGNAZIO: Hurry up!
[All the workers exit the barracks. Gaetano reaches under his pillow and takes the savings.]
IL MERLO: You don't want to work. then clear the way for someone who does.
MINER: Nobody's working down there until it's checked out.
IL MERLO: Testa 'i minchia!
[A rough-looking man in an expensive green suit enters, pushing the dirty miners aside.]
DON SPADARO: Out of the way! Who is wasting my fucking time?
L'OMBRA: Wretches won't dig-
MINER: Don Spadaro. Federico's crew has not returned from the new deposit. Something's not right.
DON SPADARO: So sorry to hear that. I'll remember to say a prayer for them.
MINER: There have been tremors. Supports could've collapsed, gas could've leaked, anything.
DON SPADARO: We'll be sure to look into it. Now get back to work!
[On the last word, he raises his voice and makes a sweeping gesture with his hand. The miner bows his head in resignation and leaves. The Don approaches his subordinate, il Merlo.]
DON SPADARO: Send someone down there!
[Il Merlo immediately notices Enzo, who likes to do others' work, and theatrically reaches out his hands towards him.]
IL MERLO: Carusu! You like making yourself useful, don't you? I've got just the job.
[The guys have to go to a dangerous mine. And they didn't even get to eat.]
THE DEEP MINE
IL MERLO: New deposit's a long way down, so no messing around. Find Federico and his carusi, and be quick about it.
ENZO: But what if there's gas?
IL MERLO: Should be lanterns down there. If you find one, take it with you. He knows what to do.
GAETANO: I'll go first.
MINER: They're going to the deep tunnels.
MINER: God help them.
IL MERLO: Off you go. Don't come back until you've found them.
GAETANO: Grab a lantern. If it flares, there's gris, gas, understand?
ENZO: What do we do then?
GAETANO: What do you think? We get the fuck out of here. They never sent you testing for gas before?
ENZO: I've only heard stories about this mine. Do you know where you're going?
GAETANO: I don't know it like the others. We need to stay close. Minchia! Closed off. Need to look for a connecting tunnel. Federico! You down here? Hm. Nothing.
NEW DEPOSITS - EAST MINE
Closed the access point to the first seam. Tunnel unstable, not safe until we get more supports. Direct route caved in. Need more men to shift the rocks.
Opened a smail passage to the neighboring tunnel. Seam just beyond here.
Water
Sulfur deposit
ENZO: It opens up over here!
GAETANO: I'm right behind you. Be careful, alright?
ENZO: This way's caved in. Hey! Under here.
[They find tools but see no workers anywhere.]
GAETANO: Their tools....
ENZO: If they're not work where are they? It's so quiet. You think something happened to them?
GAETANO: This is the deepest mine here, biggest too they're lost somewhere, we might never hear them.
[Enzo finds empty water containers.]
ENZO: Water's gone. Either they drank it all, or it dried up.
GAETANO: Working down here without water? Bedda matri... Only way forward is down there.
ENZO: Let's go. They could be in trouble.
[Enzo wants to carefully descend but slides down. His friend follows him.]
ENZO: Agh! Hey! Federico?
GAETANO: Shit. Where are they?
CATARINA'S LETTER
Federico, amuri miu
You work so hard for us, but we miss you terribly. All Nino does is ask where you are. Once you have saved enough money to come home, you must promise never to leave us again.
We will find you another job, something closer. Away from the mountain.
My father knows of a blacksmith who would consider you. We can discuss when you return. Counting down the days until I can hold you again.
Love, Catarina
[They find a corpse.]
ENZO: Cristo!
GAETANO: Gas? Maybe it's cleared, for now? We need to get out of here! We tell the men. They'll come pick them up when it's safe.
[But then an earthquake starts.]
GAETANO: Get down!
[However, the guys don't sustain significant injuries... but then their lamp flares up brighter and a hissing sound is heard from afar...]
GAETANO: Merda!
ENZO: Run!
[The guys run for their lives. Gas explosions occur here and there around them.]
GAETANO: Go! Now!
ENZO: We should war the others!
GAETANO: We will, when we're out! Keep running!
[They run, escaping the explosions and collapses.]
ENZO: Merda! No! Damn it!
GAETANO: Down here, come on!
[Enzo's leg gets pinned by a rock...]
ENZO: Get me out of here! I can't move!
GAETANO: Grab my hand!
[He helps his friend get out, and they continue running.]
GAETANO: Gas! We need to get out of here!
[As they run across a wooden bridge, it gives way under Enzo, who was second, and he falls onto the lower levels of the mine.]
ENZO: Agh!
[But Gaetano has already run to him and helps him climb up.]
GAETANO: Over here! Hurry! This way. Come on!
ENZO: Nearly there! Come on!
GAETANO: Go! Keep running!
ENZO: I see the way out! Hurry!
[Almost out of the mine, Gaetano checks his pockets and realizes he lost the money somewhere in the frantic rush...]
GAETANO: Minchia! The money!
ENZO: Forget it! We need to go!
[The money turns out to be dropped nearby, behind a narrow passage they just came through. In a hurry, Gaetano reaches for the money.]
ENZO: Forget it! We need to go! Gaetano!
GAETANO: I see it!
ENZO: Let's go!
GAETANO: I have it!
[However, part of the passage collapses.]
ENZO: No!
[He barely makes it out of the mine - Gaetano is beyond help. Emerging, Enzo sees that some miners have survived but are no longer on their feet. Il Merlo is yelling at the others as usual.]
IL MERLO: If you can walk, you can carry. Get all of this shifted.
L'OMBRA: These shafts need to be open.
[Enzo approaches them and, in a fit of anger and grief, screams at his boss.]
ENZO: Ey! You! You did this. You sent us down there!
IL MERLO: Mountain does as she will, boy.
L'OMBRA: Just get them back to work.
ENZO: Figgh'i buttana!
[In response, Enzo receives a sharp, powerful blow to the face and falls onto the sand.]
IL MERLO: Hold your tongue carusu if you want to keep it.
[However, Enzo gets up and pulls out that very knife from his pocket.]
IL MERLO: If that's what you want.
[He also pulls out a knife, and a fight begins.]
ENZO: Gaetano's dead because of you!
IL MERLO: Accidents happen. Don't do something you'll regret, carusu. Come on then, finish what you've started. Or are you scared?
ENZO: Bastaddu!
IL MERLO: You little fucking rat!
ENZO: You won't touch me.
IL MERLO: You see, boy? This is grown man's business.
ENZO: Sicominchia! You'll pay for what you did!
L'OMBRA: You fuckin up now, boy!
IL MERLO: Enough games! You wanted to fight, so fight like a man.
[He grabs both of Enzo's hands.]
IL MERLO: Lot of fight in you over a pile of bones.
[He throws Enzo onto the sand and gets distracted by a cracking sound coming from the canopy they are under. Enzo uses this opportunity, grabs the knife, and strikes, cutting il Merlo's cheek just below his left eye. He screams like a little girl, as if seeing his own blood for the first time.]
IL MERLO: Ahhh! Ahh! Figgh'i buttana!
[He moves to kill Enzo, but the canopy breaks, giving Enzo a chance to escape. He jumps and slides down a gentle slope. They start shooting at him, clearly intending to kill him on the spot. But Enzo escapes.]
L'OMBRA: Stop that carusu della minchia!
[Enzo mounts a horse that happened to run by.]
MINE GUARD: He has a horse! Get after him!
IL MERLO: Don't let him get away! You hear me?!
[However, Enzo manages to escape from the mining town. He rides as far as he can, and at this moment, we see the game's title sequence as if watching a TV series. Against the backdrop of beautiful shots, the names of the voice actors appear.]
Riccardo Frascari
as Enzo
Johnny Santiago
as Don Torrisi
Carina Conti
as Isabella
Christian Antidormi
as Cesare
Alberto Frezza
as Luca
Lane Townsend
as Don Spadaro
Anthony Skordi
as Tino
Tony Amendola
Mark Whitten
Carlo Rota
Davi Santos
Mateo d' Amato
Monique Hafen Adams
Gabriel Burrafato
Piotr Michael
Raphael Corkhill
Giancarlo Sabogal