1935-A Deep Marble/Chapter 6: There's No Other Way to Live

Synopsis
Back in the car, Ladd Russo learns about his uncle's death and the collapse of the Russo Family. While Ladd reassures Nader Schasschule that he does not hold either news against him, Nader looks back at the choices that have led him to this point.

Nader has been a con artist ever since he was young. His relative success fed his ego until he failed to usurp Goose Perkins and nearly cost himself his life. Nader traces back his decision to become a con artist out of a desire to become strong and protect his childhood friend, Sonja Bake.

After he returned to his hometown, however, Nader discovered that Sonja had already left and that Hilton had burned family’s barns and cornfields to the ground. Hilton's threats so terrified him that he returned to the police and begged for their protection.

Back in the present, Nader realizes he needs to disassociate himself from Ladd to prevent his life from spiraling further downward. Meanwhile, Ladd learns from the others that Ricardo Russo intends to revive the Russo Family.

Graham Specter abruptly points out a procession of cars following behind them. Shaft pulls over to let the car pass and, upon recognizing them as Runorata-owned, tells Nader about the Runoratas' involvement with Ra's Lance and the rumor of a casino being built in its basement. The conversation topic inspires Ladd to propose they visit the casino managed by his prison buddy Firo Prochainezo.