Three scientists \u2014 Papaia, Banani, and Ravioli \u2014 along with their assistant Igor, work at NASAL. They begin to take an interest in creationism. Alarmed, their superiors send them to a psychologist: Professor Faggioli, a questionable character determined to get them fired by making them seem insane.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli\u2019s office.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Papaia leaves the room, and Faggioli remains seated at his desk, pretending to read some papers. At a certain point, his gaze drifts off into the void, and he stays motionless, as if frozen.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Flashback. Faggioli\u2019s Father\u2019s House. Dawn.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Father<\/p>\n\n\n\n
(loudly, seriously)<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Wake up! Everybody up! There\u2019s no time to waste!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Inside the bedroom, young Faggioli bolts upright.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Next to him, his brothers do the same.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Still half-asleep, they hurry to straighten the blankets, fluff the pillows, make the bed… all in silence.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Father<\/p>\n\n\n\n
I want beds tight as drums! And a neat line for the bathroom! Move it!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The children, heads down, form a single-file line and rush to the bathroom.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
They wash their faces with cold water, without saying a word.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Every gesture is quick, precise.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Their father is already waiting at the house entrance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Father<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Grab your hoe. Today we work.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The children grab the hoes leaning next to the door.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
They march outside in a line, one behind the other, heading toward the field like little soldiers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Once there, they line up straight, backs upright, eyes downcast.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Their father watches them in silence, pacing in front of them like a commander inspecting his troops.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Then he stops.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Adjusts his hat.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Puffs out his chest.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Father (solemnly):<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Remember, my sons\u2026 You don\u2019t touch the earth on a whim!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Pause.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Father (raising his voice):<\/p>\n\n\n\n
You hoe with respect. With real hunger.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The hoe is your only teacher.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Discipline is your only ally.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
And if anyone thinks they can skip the hard work\u2026 well\u2026 they already know what\u2019s coming!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The children, including Faggioli, nod silently, gravely.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Father (shouting):<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Work position! Hoe! Now!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
They begin breaking the soil with effort, under their father\u2019s watchful eye.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli clenches his teeth.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Sweat starts pouring down his forehead immediately.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
But he keeps going. Without a word.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Determined\u2026 proud\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Igor (voice-over):<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Some had a childhood\u2026 and some had a field to hoe.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\ud83e\udd23<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Part 2<\/p>\n\n\n\n
From the kitchen window, his mother and grandmother watch little Faggioli working alone in the garden.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
No father, no brothers. Just him.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
A six-year-old child\u2026 with a hoe in his hands\u2026 and a distant, vacant stare.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Mother<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Every morning\u2026 at the same time\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
He wakes up on his own\u2026 puts on his shoes\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
And goes out there\u2026 to\u2026 to pretend he\u2019s working the land\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Grandmother<\/p>\n\n\n\n
In his imagination, it\u2019s his father giving him the orders.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The mother wipes away a tear with the back of her hand.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Mother <\/p>\n\n\n\n
He talks to himself\u2026 repeats those phrases\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Keeps talking about his father like he was some army sergeant teaching him discipline.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Grandmother<\/p>\n\n\n\n
He wasn\u2019t like that. You know he wasn\u2019t.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The mother nods slowly, lowering her gaze.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Mother<\/p>\n\n\n\n
He was kind\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
He\u2019d wake him up with a smile\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
He\u2019d tickle him out of bed\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
He\u2019d kneel beside him to teach him how to plant a tomato\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
He never even raised his voice\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The grandmother keeps looking outside. Fixes her gaze on that still child in the garden.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Grandmother<\/p>\n\n\n\n
It was a real trauma.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
His father collapsing like that\u2026 right in front of him.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The mother closes her eyes for a moment, trying to contain her emotion.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Mother<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u2026And since then\u2026 he\u2019s been stuck there. Frozen in that moment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Grandmother<\/p>\n\n\n\n
It\u2019s like he\u2026 like he created another father.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
One who was stronger\u2026 stricter\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
One who\u2026 would never leave him.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Silence.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The grandmother pulls the shawl tighter around her shoulders.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The mother sets the coffee cup down on the windowsill, no longer able to look outside.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
In the garden\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli is still there.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Working with the hoe in his hand.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Eyes lost in the void.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Discipline is everything\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Igor (voice-over):<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Poor Faggioli. I really do feel bad for the guy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Still\u2026 trauma or not\u2026 nobody\u2019s forcing you to grow up wielding a hoe. \ud83e\udd23<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Part 3<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Flashback \u2013 Faggioli\u2019s Garden. Dawn.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli\u2019s father is already in the garden, working with a hoe in hand.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
From the doorway, little Faggioli watches him.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Father (turning to him, with a tired smile):<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Come on, champ\u2026 today it\u2019s your turn too\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli runs out and stands next to him with his little toy hoe.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
He mimics his movements.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
He chuckles softly, proud to be at his father\u2019s side.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The father pauses for a moment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
He wipes his forehead, as if trying to push away the fatigue.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Takes two steps back, stumbles.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli freezes, watching him in confusion.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Father (leaning on the hoe, trying to catch his breath):<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Hold on\u2026 just a second\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
His breathing grows shallow.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
A hand clutches his chest.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
His eyes glaze over.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Then\u2026 the father collapses to the ground, without a sound.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Dad?<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The child kneels beside him. Gently shakes him.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Dad\u2026 come on\u2026 get up\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The mother rushes out of the house, screaming her husband\u2019s name.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The grandmother follows, already dialing the phone.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Mother (desperate, kneeling beside her husband):<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Call an ambulance! Now!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Little Faggioli stays there. Frozen, eyes wide open.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The siren of the ambulance grows closer.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Two paramedics hurry into the garden with a stretcher.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
They lift the man onto it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The mother climbs in too, crying, while the grandmother stays with Faggioli.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The siren fades into the distance, slicing through the morning silence.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Little Faggioli remains there.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Still kneeling.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Hands resting on his dirt-covered knees.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Staring blankly at the exact spot where his father fell.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The grandmother approaches, kneels beside him, strokes his hair.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Grandmother (with a trembling voice):<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli\u2026 sweetheart\u2026 come inside\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
But he doesn\u2019t move.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Doesn\u2019t answer.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Doesn\u2019t cry.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Doesn\u2019t say a word.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Igor (voice-over):<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Oh come on! I don\u2019t believe this!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli exchanged a good father\u2026 with a tyrant.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Thank goodness he became a psychologist.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Imagine if he\u2019d gone into retail. \ud83e\udd23<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Part 4<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Flashback \u2013 Faggioli\u2019s House. Late Afternoon. Living Room.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Grandma has invited two neighborhood friends over for tea.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Three women sit in a circle, cups in hand, speaking in hushed voices.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Ten-year-old Faggioli is also in the living room, focused on coloring a picture book.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Friend 1 (with a compassionate tone):<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Poor man\u2026 so young\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
It was all just\u2026 so sudden.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Grandmother (nodding, eyes down on her cup):<\/p>\n\n\n\n
A massive heart attack\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
He didn\u2019t even have time to call for help\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli<\/p>\n\n\n\n
(Under his breath, barely audible)<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Massive heart attack.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Friend 1<\/p>\n\n\n\n
I heard he was a well-known writer.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Grandmother<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Yes, he wrote for a psychology magazine, and also taught at the university.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Friend 2:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
My husband was one of the first to arrive\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
He said he found him there\u2026 collapsed on the ground among the tomato plants\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Grandma closes her eyes for a moment, inhaling slowly.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Grandmother (sighing):<\/p>\n\n\n\n
He loved working in the garden so much. And Faggioli\u2026 followed him every step of the way.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Friend 1:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
A real tragedy. So hard to bear. Especially for your daughter.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Grandmother (voice trembling, caressing the teacup in her hands):<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Yes\u2026 and him\u2026 (gestures slightly toward the living room)<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u2026ever since that day\u2026 he\u2019s been traumatized.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli keeps coloring, pretending not to hear.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Igor (voice-over):<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Ten years old, a dead father\u2026 and three ladies calmly narrating your trauma while you’re still in the room.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Lovely afternoon, Grandma.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\ud83e\udd23<\/p>\n\n\n\n
A<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Waiting Room<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The door opens. Papaia steps out of Faggioli\u2019s office.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Banani<\/p>\n\n\n\n
How did it go?<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Papaia<\/p>\n\n\n\n
I\u2019m not sure. That Faggioli is a weird guy\u2014unpredictable.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Ravioli<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Now Igor\u2019s the only one left.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Papaia<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Yeah. I can\u2019t wait for this whole thing to be over.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Banani<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Igor. What are you waiting for? Knock on the door.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Igor stands up and knocks.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Igor<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Excuse me? May I?<\/p>\n\n\n\n
No response.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
He gently opens the door and peeks in.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Igor<\/p>\n\n\n\n
There\u2019s no one in here.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Banani<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Maybe he went to the bathroom.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Ravioli<\/p>\n\n\n\n
You\u2019d better wait until he calls you.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Igor<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Good idea.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Banani<\/p>\n\n\n\n
What did he ask you?<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Papaia<\/p>\n\n\n\n
He threatened me with a hoe, made me kneel on dried chickpeas, and forced me to eat fish with broccoli.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Ravioli<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Gross! Glad he didn\u2019t do that to me.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Banani<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Sorry, but in my opinion, that guy is completely nuts. Did you see when he talks to the sock?<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Papaia<\/p>\n\n\n\n
I don\u2019t know what to think anymore. Maybe it\u2019s better if they fire us.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Ravioli<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Speaking of which\u2026 let me introduce you to Paco. An old school friend of mine. I ran into him by chance while he was walking down the hallway. He used to work here, but in the other wing, so I never saw him before.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Papaia<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Nice to meet you. I\u2019m Papaia.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Paco<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Pleasure\u2019s mine, Professor.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Papaia<\/p>\n\n\n\n
You used to work here?<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Paco<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Yes, but then I discovered the truth, and I left voluntarily.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Papaia<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The truth?<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Paco<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Yes, the one written in the Bible. The infallible Word of God.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Papaia<\/p>\n\n\n\n
So you also\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Paco<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Yes! I went through the same process you\u2019re going through.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Ravioli<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Paco\u2019s been telling us all sorts of fascinating stuff. Like evidence for a young Earth\u2014just 6,000 years old, not billions!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Part 5<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Flashback. Faggioli\u2019s House. Kitchen, Late Afternoon.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Ten-year-old Faggioli is sitting alone.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
In front of him: a plate with a big slice of pizza, cheese still stringy and the strong smell of spicy salami wafting in the air.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The TV is on in the corner of the room.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Low volume, but just loud enough to be heard.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
A special health segment is airing on the local news channel:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Newscaster (voice):<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u2026And now the health segment: how to prevent heart risks, even in the young\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli chews slowly, eyes dull.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
On screen appears a doctor in a white lab coat, behind a desk full of fake fruits and vegetables.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Doctor<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Many sudden heart attacks strike people who seem perfectly healthy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
But often the cause is a poor diet.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Too many fats\u2026 too much junk\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli freezes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
His fork stops mid-air.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Doctor<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Prevention starts at the table!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
For example\u2026 replace pizza and cured meats with a nice dish of boiled fish\u2026 perhaps with some steamed broccoli on the side\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Zoom-in on a plate of gray, soggy fish, surrounded by faded broccoli.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Silence.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli looks at the plate in front of him.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Then at the TV.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Then back at the plate.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Suddenly\u2026 without warning\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
In a flash of rage, he grabs the pizza plate and hurls it to the ground.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The sound of shattering ceramic fills the room.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The TV keeps going, as if nothing happened.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Doctor<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u2026a balanced diet will help protect your heart and arteries\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli stays seated, motionless.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Hands gripping the edge of the table.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Eyes locked.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Jaw clenched.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Newscaster<\/p>\n\n\n\n
It takes a certain discipline, doesn\u2019t it?<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Doctor<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Yes. Absolutely. But it\u2019s a necessary effort for our health.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Discipline\u2026 and healthy food\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Discipline\u2026 and healthy food\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Discipline\u2026 and healthy food\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
From the next room, Grandma rushes in:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Grandmother (entering, worried):<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli! What did you do\u2014?<\/p>\n\n\n\n
She stops.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Looks at him.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Then at the shattered plate on the floor.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Then back at him…<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Discipline\u2026 and healthy food\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Discipline\u2026 and healthy food\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Discipline\u2026 and healthy food\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Little Faggioli\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Still with fists clenched\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Staring into nothing\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Igor (voice-over):<\/p>\n\n\n\n
True discipline?<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Hurling a pizza at the wall without breaking the TV.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\ud83e\udd23<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Part 6<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Flashback. Evening. Faggioli\u2019s House.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Little Faggioli, ten years old, is sitting on the living room carpet.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
In his hands, he holds an old family photo album, with a worn leather cover and yellowed pages.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
He flips slowly, one photo at a time\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Smiling faces\u2026 countryside trips\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Then\u2026 a photo different from the others.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Black and white.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
A faded image of a man in an old military uniform, mustache as long as bayonets, a hard, almost threatening stare.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Stiff collar, straight shoulders.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
On the back, a shaky handwritten note:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cAlfonso Faggioli \u2013 1917 \u2013 1st Infantry Regiment.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli stays still, staring at the photo as if hypnotized.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Grandma, who had been ironing in the kitchen, comes closer and peeks over his shoulder.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Grandmother (with a fond smile):<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Ah\u2026 that one\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Great-grandpa Alfonso\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
He was a sergeant in the First World War\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
They say he was strict\u2026 a real tough guy\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Then she walks away again, going to check the iron in the other room.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli remains there, sitting, eyes glued to the photo.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
He holds it close\u2026 brings it near his face\u2026 as if to study every detail.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Silence.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
He glances around, makes sure no one\u2019s watching\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Then\u2026 with a quick move\u2026 slides the photo out of the album sleeve\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
And hides it in his pocket.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
He shuts the album quickly.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Puts it back like nothing happened.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
From the kitchen, Grandma calls out:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Grandmother (completely unaware):<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli! Dinner\u2019s ready, come on!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Igor<\/p>\n\n\n\n
No! What are you thinking?<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli only took the photo to show it to his barber for his next haircut.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\ud83e\udd23<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Part 7<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Flashback. Faggioli\u2019s House. Late Night. Faggioli\u2019s Bedroom.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Little Faggioli, ten years old, is tucked under the covers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
His mother adjusts the sheet, brushes a lock of hair from his forehead, and gives him a gentle kiss.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Mother (smiling sweetly):<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Goodnight, my love\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
She stands up, turns off the main light, leaves only the bedside lamp on\u2026 and quietly closes the door.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Silence.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli waits a few seconds.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Then reaches under his pillow\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
He pulls out an old black-and-white photo, slightly worn at the edges.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
It\u2019s a picture of his father.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
A man with a kind face, a slightly shy smile\u2026 tired but gentle eyes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli looks at it. Tears begin to roll down his cheeks.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Then\u2026 something changes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
A shadow on the wall.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
A rustling in the silence.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli quickly turns toward the corner of the room\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
And there\u2026 standing tall and rigid\u2026 he sees him.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Alfonso Faggioli.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Sergeant\u2019s uniform. Mustache like daggers. A piercing glare.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli (in a trembling whisper):<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Wh-who are you?<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Alfonso (in a dry, commanding tone):<\/p>\n\n\n\n
I\u2019m your father.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli (confused, clutching the photo of his real father):<\/p>\n\n\n\n
But\u2026 but I thought you were dead\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Alfonso<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Dead? A true father never dies. A true father stays\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
To remind you what\u2019s right\u2026 what\u2019s wrong\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
And most of all\u2026 what must never be eaten!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Pause. Alfonso steps closer.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Alfonso (indignant, voice booming):<\/p>\n\n\n\n
What is that garbage you\u2019re holding?!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
(points at the photo)<\/p>\n\n\n\n
That man is a fraud! A weakling! A\u2026 pizza-eater! A lover of saturated fats!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli looks at the photo\u2026 then at him\u2026 confused\u2026 frightened\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Alfonso (in a commanding voice):<\/p>\n\n\n\n
From now on\u2026 you will listen to me. You will obey me.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
And the first thing you\u2019ll do\u2026 is replace that photo.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
I am your father. That\u2019s an order!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The boy lowers his gaze.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Looks at his father\u2019s picture.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Alfonso<\/p>\n\n\n\n
A fraud!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli places the great-grandfather\u2019s photo into the frame, covering the one of his real father completely.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli<\/p>\n\n\n\n
(softly)<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Healthy food and discipline!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Then\u2026 slowly\u2026 he slides it back under his pillow.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
When he lifts his eyes\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The corner of the room\u2026 is empty.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
But in his mind\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Alfonso\u2019s voice\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Remains.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Igor (voice-over):<\/p>\n\n\n\n
That\u2019s what great-grandpas are for: putting some discipline into their grandkids\u2019 diets. \ud83e\udd23<\/p>\n\n\n\n
When love isn\u2019t enough, in comes the hoe\u2026 or at least the mustached sergeant. \ud83e\udd23<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Part 8<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Flashback. Faggioli\u2019s House. Attic. Morning.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Fifteen-year-old Faggioli, broom in hand, is trying to sweep away the cobwebs from the highest corners of the ceiling.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Grandmother (shouting from downstairs):<\/p>\n\n\n\n
And don\u2019t forget the corners near the beam! That\u2019s where the mosquito nests are!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli (grumbling to himself):<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Mosquitoes\u2026 the true plague of discipline\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
As he moves an old chair to reach higher, he bumps into a wooden trunk.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Curious, he opens it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Inside\u2026 heavy fabrics\u2026 faded colors\u2026 an even stronger smell of mothballs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Intrigued, Faggioli kneels down and starts pulling out the contents:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
A faded military jacket, with still-shiny metal buttons.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
A pair of loose gray-green trousers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
An old cap with a stiff visor.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
And at the bottom\u2026 a belt with a rusty buckle.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli looks at them\u2026 one by one\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Then\u2026 without thinking much\u2026 he starts putting them on.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
He slips on the jacket\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The trousers\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Puts the cap on his head, gazing at himself in a cracked mirror leaning against the wall.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
He stares for several long seconds.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Standing. Straight. Motionless.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Wearing that uniform\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
He feels different. Older. Stronger.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli (softly, in a solemn tone, imitating a sergeant\u2019s voice):<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Discipline\u2026 is the first brick\u2026 of personal dignity\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Then\u2026 the sound of footsteps.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Grandma is coming up the stairs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli hurriedly takes everything off.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Folds the clothes quickly and clumsily\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Puts them back in the trunk\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
And pushes it behind the wardrobe again\u2026 as if he\u2019d never touched it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
He resumes dusting the ceiling\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
But in his eyes\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
something has changed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Igor (voice-over):<\/p>\n\n\n\n
When I was a kid, every carnival my mom dressed me up as Zorro.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Definitely not as original as Faggioli\u2019s choice\u2014going for the World War I sergeant with a hoe instead of a rifle. \ud83e\udd23<\/p>\n\n\n\n
B<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Waiting Room.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Ravioli<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Igor, go check if Faggioli\u2019s out of the bathroom.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Igor<\/p>\n\n\n\n
(peeking through the door)<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Nope, still nothing. Gentlemen, we can go home. Faggioli has officially fallen into the toilet! \ud83e\udd23<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Paco<\/p>\n\n\n\n
If you want my advice, listen to Igor. This whole evaluation thing is just an excuse to fire you with cause.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
As Paco speaks, a butterfly floats in through the open window.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Banani<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Look! A butterfly!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Ravioli<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Beautiful!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Paco<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Beautiful\u2014and the result of a design!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Banani<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Oh yeah? And who designed it?<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Ravioli<\/p>\n\n\n\n
God, obviously!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Paco<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Fascinating creatures, aren\u2019t they? Lovely, delicate\u2026 and yet, there\u2019s so much more to them.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Banani<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Like what?<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Paco<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Butterflies display incredibly unique and complex designs that reflect the glory of the Creator in His creation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Papaia<\/p>\n\n\n\n
So they\u2019re not just the result of chance?<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Paco<\/p>\n\n\n\n
No, of course not. And what\u2019s more, it\u2019s important to remember we\u2019re talking about tiny insects with a brain the size of a pinhead, no bones, no blood, and only a minimal nervous system.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Papaia<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Yeah, but in the end, all they do is flutter around.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Paco<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Not quite, Papaia. These insects are capable of amazing things. And that clearly shows us God\u2019s design in their creation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Part 9<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Flashback. Faggioli\u2019s House. Living Room.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli\u2019s mother quickly straightens the cushions on the sofa.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The front door opens.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Mother (forcing a smile):<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Please, have a seat\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli\u2019s teacher, a woman in her fifties with a sympathetic but exasperated air, enters and sits on the edge of an armchair.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Teacher (in a diplomatic tone):<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Ma\u2019am\u2026 I\u2019m sorry to disturb you like this\u2026 but I think it\u2019s better to talk in person.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The mother sits facing her, already sensing the matter is serious.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Teacher (taking a breath):<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Today\u2026 your son\u2026 uh\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Well\u2026 he\u2026 dug up\u2026 the school garden.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The mother\u2019s eyes widen.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Mother:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
He did what?<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Teacher:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
He went out into the yard during recess\u2026 took one of the hoes from the environmental science lab\u2026 and started tilling the soil\u2026 right under the principal\u2019s office window.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Pause.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The mother brings a hand to her forehead.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Teacher:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
He said the grass was too tall\u2026 that the soil discipline was unacceptable\u2026 and that if he didn\u2019t take care of it\u2026 the school would fall into agricultural disgrace.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The mother closes her eyes for a moment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Mother (forcing a polite smile):<\/p>\n\n\n\n
I understand\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Thank you for coming by. I\u2019ll handle this.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The teacher stands up, picks up her bag, nods politely, and leaves.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
As soon as the door closes\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Mother (shouting toward the stairs):<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli!!! Come here right now!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli appears at the top of the stairs, looking innocent but rigid, like at attention.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Mother (exasperated tone):<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Can you explain why you dug up the school garden?!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli remains still.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Then, with a serious, flat voice, he simply says:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
It was necessary.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The mother shakes her head, turns toward Grandma, who has meanwhile appeared in the kitchen doorway holding a dish towel.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Mother:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Mom\u2026 do you realize?! He\u2019s driving me crazy!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Grandma smiles bitterly, as if she\u2019s not surprised at all.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Grandma (nostalgic tone):<\/p>\n\n\n\n
In my day\u2026 for much less\u2026 they used to make us kneel on chickpeas\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Hearing this, Faggioli\u2019s eyes widen.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
He takes a half step back\u2026 as if a dark thought just exploded in his head\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Without saying a word, he whirls around and runs to his room, slamming the door behind him.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Silence.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The mother looks at Grandma, disheartened.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Igor (voice-over):<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Hoe in hand, discipline in heart.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Another normal day in Dr. Faggioli\u2019s training. \ud83e\udd23<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u2026While others snack, Faggioli tills. \ud83e\udd23<\/p>\n\n\n\n
That\u2019s the beauty of childhood\u2026 if you were born a farmer of the psyche. \ud83e\udd23<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u2026Faggioli had two personalities. One tilled the soil\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The other, the mind.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
And neither ever got a round of applause. \ud83e\udd23<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u2026Faggioli is a hero! The school garden was out of control.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Good thing we had our little general with the hoe! \ud83e\udd23<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Part 10<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Flashback. Faggioli\u2019s House. Faggioli\u2019s Room.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The door is closed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The curtains drawn.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The boy sits on the bed, head in his hands.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Tears stream down his face, but he makes no sound.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Inside his head\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The voices of reproach mix and overlap:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Mother\u2019s voice (distant echo):<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli! Can you explain what on earth you\u2019re thinking?!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Grandmother\u2019s voice:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
In my day\u2026 they made us kneel on chickpeas\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Teacher\u2019s voice:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Soil discipline\u2026 agricultural disgrace\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
All the voices\u2026 merge into one\u2026 harsher and deeper\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli jumps up.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Opens the wardrobe.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Pulls out the great-grandfather\u2019s old military jacket\u2026 the cap\u2026 the belt.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Puts them on, one by one.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
He stands in front of the mirror.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Looks at himself.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
On the other side of the mirror appears Alfonso. Who, by now, is Faggioli\u2019s father.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Father:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
What are you doing?<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Nothing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Father:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
You\u2019re crying. Like a little girl.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
No. I can explain.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Father:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Shame.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Weakness.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Tears?<\/p>\n\n\n\n
A Faggioli\u2026 doesn\u2019t cry.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Yes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Father:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
You say \u201cYes, sir!\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Yes, sir.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Father:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Look at yourself.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
A pitiful sight.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Weak.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Spineless.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli nods slowly\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
As if taking orders.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Father:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
You know what you deserve.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Kneeling on chickpeas.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli reaches into the pocket of the uniform and finds a handful of dry chickpeas.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Fake father (commanding tone):<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Kneel down.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Until you\u2019ve learned your lesson.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli throws the chickpeas to the floor, then kneels.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
An unreal silence falls over the room.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Only the ticking of the clock\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
And the voice, once more\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Father (whispering, stern):<\/p>\n\n\n\n
This is how\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
This is how you grow up.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Igor (voice-over):<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Excuse me? But\u2026 what were those chickpeas doing in a seventy-year-old uniform?! \ud83e\udd23<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u2026That\u2019s a creepy detail!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Apparently the great-grandfather never left the house without the essentials for a quick punishment. \ud83e\udd23<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Part 11<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Flashback. School trip. Morning.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli\u2019s class, all around fourteen years old, is visiting an old decommissioned mine, now turned into a historical museum.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The guides explain the harsh life of miners in the early 1900s.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The students are bored, giggling, taking pictures with their phones.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
But not Faggioli.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli walks slowly along the path\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Staring at every tool on display\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Every shovel\u2026 every spade\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Until\u2026 he sees it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
An old wrought iron hoe, with a worn wooden handle, displayed behind a glass case.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
A yellowed label reads:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
“Original tool \u2013 Coal mine, 1915 \u2013 Agricultural and mining use.”<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli freezes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Eyes wide.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Hands clenched against his pants.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Tour guide\u2019s voice (in the background):<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u2026rudimentary tools\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u2026inhumane working conditions\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u2026entire days spent digging\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli\u2026 doesn\u2019t hear any of it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Just the distant buzzing of the guide\u2019s voice\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
And inside his head\u2026 Alfonso\u2019s voice\u2026 slipping in like a military order from another time:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Father<\/p>\n\n\n\n
(Voice in Faggioli\u2019s head)<\/p>\n\n\n\n
My hoe. Its place isn\u2019t there. Its place is in the garden. Do you understand me, Faggioli?<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Yes sir!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Teacher<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Who are you talking to, Faggioli?<\/p>\n\n\n\n
No response.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Teacher<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Here we go again!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Igor (off-screen):<\/p>\n\n\n\n
A normal school trip: someone takes selfies, someone buys magnets\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
And Faggioli\u2026 receives telepathic orders from a hoe from 1915. \ud83e\udd23<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u2026Others bring home a postcard.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli brings home an agricultural hallucination. \ud83e\udd23<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u2026Some hear ghosts in castles.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli heard them in museum display cases. \ud83e\udd23<\/p>\n\n\n\n
And always coming from gardening tools. \ud83e\udd23<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Part 12<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Flashback. Faggioli\u2019s House. Faggioli\u2019s Room. Night.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli lies awake on the bed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Father:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Get up, Faggioli!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli jumps up.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Opens the wardrobe.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Puts on his great-grandfather\u2019s military jacket.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Stands before the mirror and begins speaking in the voice of his father Alfonso.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Father:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Today is an important day, son.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Why, sir?<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Father:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
That hoe. It\u2019s not just a tool.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
No, sir.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Father:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
No. That hoe was given to me by my father. And to my father, by his father. It\u2019s the Faggioli legacy, passed from father to son. From generation to generation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
I understand, sir.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Father:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
But the enemies have taken what is ours. And put it on display in a museum.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Yes, sir.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Father:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
A museum! A place for intellectuals, weaklings, full of empty words. An insult to the Faggioli tradition.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Yes, sir.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Father:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
But today your moment has come. To be a hero, and fulfill your duty to our family. The hoe. Take it from there and bring it to me. Then it will be yours, with the passing of generations. And one day, you will give it to your son, as I have given to you.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Retrieve the hoe. Yes, sir.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Father:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Do not fail. Do not dishonor us, Faggioli.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
I will not fail, sir.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
While everyone sleeps, Faggioli marches out of the house, dressed in his great-grandfather\u2019s uniform.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Igor (voice-over):<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Some steal scooters.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli? A 1915 hoe.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Reason: spiritual heritage and garden revenge. \ud83e\udd23<\/p>\n\n\n\n
C<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Waiting Room.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Ravioli:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Any news about Faggioli?<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Banani:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
He\u2019s been in there, silent, for quite a while. I\u2019m starting to think he escaped out the window.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Igor:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Maybe he couldn\u2019t take listening to your stories anymore. \ud83e\udd23<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Papaia:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Believe me, Igor. He\u2019s worse off than us! \ud83e\udd23<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Ravioli:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Admitting you\u2019re in bad shape is at least a first step! \ud83e\udd23<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Banani:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli hasn\u2019t even done that. He even thinks he\u2019s normal! \ud83e\udd23<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Papaia:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
You were telling me about butterflies. You said they do surprising things despite their limitations. What kind of things?<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Paco:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
For example, to function properly, butterflies must maintain specific body temperatures.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Banani:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Oh, really? I didn\u2019t know that!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Paco:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Sure. For example, black swallowtails (Papilio polyxenes) bask in the sun to raise their temperature, raising and lowering their abdomen depending on the heat. To cool down, they can increase hemolymph circulation between body segments to dissipate heat into the environment!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Ravioli:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Kind of like lizards?<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Paco:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Yes, somewhat like them. Another example: eastern tiger swallowtails (Papilio glaucus) lay their eggs on sun-facing branch tips, which is important because larvae exposed to sunlight develop up to 35% faster than those not exposed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Papaia:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
They\u2019re clever insects!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Part 13<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Flashback. Hours Later. Mine-Museum. Outside.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The fence is low.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli climbs over it without hesitation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
He slips through a small side entrance, already broken into before by vandals.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
He walks among the shadows of display mannequins\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
His eyes fixed on the case holding the hoe.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
He grabs a stone\u2026 breaks the glass\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Takes the hoe.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Lifts it high as if he just saved a sacred relic.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Just outside\u2026 he falls to his knees in the damp earth, hoe in hand.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli (whispering, between sobs and fanaticism):<\/p>\n\n\n\n
I did it, father\u2026 I did it\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
He stands up.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Disappears into the night\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
With the old hoe.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Igor (voice-over):<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli had stolen a century-old hoe\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Because the ghost of his great-grandfather ordered him to.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
And the best part?<\/p>\n\n\n\n
It was only Wednesday. \ud83e\udd23<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Part 14<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Flashback \u2013 Interior \u2013 Classroom \u2013 Afternoon.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The classmates are scattered at their desks; some chat, others throw paper balls\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli, sitting straight and stiff in his seat, watches silently.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
His gaze is fixed on Luca, sitting two rows ahead.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Backpack open, books scattered, crumpled papers\u2026 even a half-eaten sandwich stuffed among the notebooks.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Luca\u2019s hands are sticky from snacks, and he wipes them on his pants without thinking.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli grips his pen so hard it nearly breaks.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The ringing in his ears. His jaw clenched.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli (internal thought, sharp):<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cDisorder\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Chaos\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Incompetence\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
This\u2026 is human degeneration.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The sound of Luca\u2019s silly laughter makes him snap.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli slowly stands up, with stiff steps\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
He heads toward the bathroom without saying a word.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Igor (voice-over):<\/p>\n\n\n\n
When a sandwich between notebooks can make you snap\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
it\u2019s time to worry. Unless your name is Faggioli. In that case, there\u2019s nothing left to do! \ud83e\udd23<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Part 15<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Flashback. Interior. School bathroom. Minutes later.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli looks at himself in the mirror.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
He wets his face\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Takes a deep breath\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
But\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
When he raises his eyes again\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The reflection in the mirror stays still for a second longer than his movements.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Then\u2026 he sees it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The image of his father. Alfonso.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Broad shoulders, stern gaze\u2026 appearing like a ghost behind his own face.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Father<\/p>\n\n\n\n
(calm and authoritative):<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Look carefully, son\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
In front of you\u2026 there is an example of moral decay.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Disorder\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Filth\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Inability to govern oneself.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
You see it\u2026 you feel it\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Yet\u2026 you just stand there watching\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Like a passive observer\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli lowers his gaze\u2026 fists clenched\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Father<\/p>\n\n\n\n
(with a sharper, harder tone):<\/p>\n\n\n\n
It is your duty to intervene.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
To correct.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
To educate.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
And if needed\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
To punish.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli<\/p>\n\n\n\n
(with a broken voice, through gritted teeth):<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Yes, sir.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Pause.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli dries his face.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Adjusts his shirt collar.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Looks in the mirror one last time\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The reflection is now normal again.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
But his eyes\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Are colder than before.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
With a determined step\u2026 he leaves the bathroom.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Igor (voice-over):<\/p>\n\n\n\n
When the reflection in the mirror scolds you\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
it means you\u2019ve taken a step longer than the hoe. \ud83e\udd23<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Part 16<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Flashback \u2013 Interior \u2013 School Cafeteria \u2013 Noon.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The noise of cutlery, chatter, chairs scraping.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The vague smell of soup and burnt sauce.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli, sitting at his table, watches with his usual unsettling stillness.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
His gaze is fixed on Luca, sitting three tables away.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Luca is choosing what to eat:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
He carefully rejects every dish that contains even traces of nuts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Checks the labels, asks the cook, even avoids desserts that might contain them.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
As he keeps staring at him, he overhears a conversation at the table behind him.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Classmate 1 (whispering):<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Remember when Luca ate that walnut cake?<\/p>\n\n\n\n
He ended up in the hospital\u2026 swollen like a balloon\u2026 looked like a cartoon\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Classmate 2 (chuckling quietly):<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Yeah\u2026 his mom made a huge fuss\u2026 Ever since, he\u2019s been paranoid about everything!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli pulls out a notebook and takes notes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Nut allergy. Interesting.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
He lowers his gaze to his tray\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
But an almost imperceptible smile forms at the corners of his mouth.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
His mind is already working.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Igor<\/p>\n\n\n\n
What was Faggioli thinking at that moment? Here\u2019s what the users said:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\ud83d\udfeb @Sergeant_Snack<\/p>\n\n\n\n
> \u201cNuts\u2026 lined up in threes, look like shaved heads ready to march.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\ud83e\udd5c @DentistOnTheRun<\/p>\n\n\n\n
> \u201cA nut a day keeps the dentist away\u2026 or sends them on early vacation.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\ud83c\udf33 @General_Almond<\/p>\n\n\n\n
> \u201cIf nuts had an army, it would be commanded by an almond tree.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\ud83d\udcaa @OneHandCommand<\/p>\n\n\n\n
> \u201cIt\u2019s scientifically proven that whoever cracks a nut with one hand can command a platoon.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\ud83e\udde0 @MindControl<\/p>\n\n\n\n
> \u201cNuts look like miniature brains\u2026 so they probably contain unauthorized thoughts.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n
D<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Waiting Room.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Igor<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Wait! I heard something.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Ravioli<\/p>\n\n\n\n
What?<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Igor<\/p>\n\n\n\n
It sounds like he\u2019s talking to himself\u2026 changing his voice.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Papaia<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Ah, he did that to me the whole time. Apparently, he does it to imitate his father.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Banani<\/p>\n\n\n\n
That guy is completely crazy. I think we should leave immediately.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Igor<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Clever, Banani, huh? You\u2019ve already had your session anyway!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Papaia<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Be quiet for a moment! Paco was telling us about butterflies!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Paco<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Don\u2019t worry. Faggioli will be out soon. He\u2019s just reporting to his father.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Ravioli<\/p>\n\n\n\n
And you know him?<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Paco<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Who doesn\u2019t know him in Building B?<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Papaia<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Come on, keep going about the butterflies!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Paco<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Yes. I was saying\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Monarchs (Danaus plexippus), for which flight is essential both for migration and daily life, shiver to raise their body temperature to the level needed to fly.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Ravioli<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Ah, perfect! I thought that only happened to me when I have to get out of bed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Igor<\/p>\n\n\n\n
No, Ravioli. That\u2019s the vibrations from the tow truck you need to get up! \ud83e\udd23<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Paco<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Good one\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The painted lady butterflies (Vanessa cardui) also show this trembling behavior, although how they use it varies greatly from individual to individual.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Ravioli<\/p>\n\n\n\n
You\u2019re gonna pay for that, Igor!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Paco<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u2026It\u2019s known that some butterfly species, like the famous monarch butterfly, are unpalatable to predators because, as caterpillars, they feed on bitter-tasting plants. Other butterflies take advantage of this by mimicking toxic butterflies.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Papaia<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Even with little brain, they seem smart!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Igor<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Yeah, just like you three! \ud83e\udd23<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Part 17<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Flashback. Interior \u2013 School Bathroom \u2013 Minutes later.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli looks at himself in the mirror.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Hands resting on the sides of the sink.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Takes a deep breath.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The reflection\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
For a second\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Transforms again.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Alfonso Faggioli is there, in the reflection, with an icy gaze and sharp tone:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Father<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli, report!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Good news, sir! We found a weak point in the enemy. He\u2019s allergic to nuts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Father<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Great job, son. I\u2019m proud of you. But now it\u2019s time to attack.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli<\/p>\n\n\n\n
With the nuts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Father<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Without being seen. We must use strategy. Otherwise, we\u2019ll lose the battle.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Yes, sir.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli nods slowly.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Adjusts his shirt collar.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Leaves the bathroom.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
With a calm step.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
But with the look of someone who has already made up his mind.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Igor (offscreen, serious but with a smile):<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli didn\u2019t want to punish Luca\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
It was just his own way of reminding him of his allergy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
A reminder\u2026 a little warning\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
in his own way\u2026 \u201caffectionate discipline.\u201d\ud83e\udd23<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u2026better if in the 15-18 uniform!\ud83e\udd23<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Part 18<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Flashback. Exterior \u2013 School Exit \u2013 Afternoon<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The gate opens, students walk out in small groups.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli stands off to the side, holding his schoolbag, jacket buttoned all the way up, eyes down\u2026 but ears alert.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Not far off, Luca is chatting with a couple of friends, backpack tossed on the ground, shoelaces untied as usual.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Friend 1:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Come on, let\u2019s go to the caf\u00e9\u2026 They\u2019ve got craft beer today\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Friend 2 (laughing):<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Yeah\u2026 Or at least you can get a Sprite so you don\u2019t whine!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Luca (waving his hands, agitated):<\/p>\n\n\n\n
No, no\u2026 I don\u2019t want to drink\u2026 You know I\u2019m scared of getting drunk\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
And I already hate beer anyway\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Friend 1 (joking):<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Of course\u2026 scared of beer\u2026 First the fear of nuts, now this too!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The guys laugh, then pick up their backpacks and start walking toward the caf\u00e9, leaving Luca behind, unsure, staring at the ground in embarrassment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Igor (offscreen):<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Among all his fears, Luca never imagined he\u2019d have to add a teenager in vintage military gear with a hoe to the list. \ud83e\udd23<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u2026It\u2019s true! Just when you think the only threats are allergies or alcohol, Alfonso shows up\u2014with discipline, tools, and turn-of-the-century mustaches. \ud83e\udd23<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Part 19<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Flashback. Exterior \u2013 School Exit \u2013 Moments Later<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli approaches Luca.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Silent.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
With a slow, measured pace.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Luca<\/p>\n\n\n\n
What do you want, Faggioli?<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli (in a low, friendly, almost fatherly tone):<\/p>\n\n\n\n
I get it\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
You know\u2026 it\u2019s easy to laugh\u2026 when you\u2019ve never been afraid of anything\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Luca looks up, confused:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
What\u2026? But you\u2026 what do you know\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli (with a faint smile, slightly tilting his head):<\/p>\n\n\n\n
I can tell when someone needs a little\u2026 push\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Pause.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli pretends to look away, like he’s thinking aloud:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli (softly, like a thought out loud):<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Sometimes\u2026 life puts us through tests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Small ones.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
But decisive.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
If you avoid them\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
You become someone who always runs away.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Luca swallows.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Looks down at his shoes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli (in a softer tone, but with a sharp edge underneath):<\/p>\n\n\n\n
But hey\u2026 that\u2019s fine\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
I\u2019m heading to the bar, with the others, for a beer. Like a man.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
You, if you\u2019d rather\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Can go home.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Tidy up your backpack\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Maybe\u2026 fold your clothes a little\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The blow lands.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Luca stiffens, pride wounded.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Luca (snapping):<\/p>\n\n\n\n
I\u2019m coming too!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Barely smiles.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Takes a step back.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Feigns humility.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli (nodding):<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Your choice\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Good job.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The two walk off together\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
One unaware\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The other\u2026 fully aware of every step he\u2019s orchestrating.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Igor (offscreen):<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Ah, the power of Faggioli\u2019s \u201cpush\u201d\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
More like a shove out the window! \ud83e\udd23<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u2026Forget gentle encouragement! \ud83e\udd23<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Part 20<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Flashback \u2013 Interior \u2013 Bar Near the School \u2013 Late Afternoon<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The air is thick with smoke and the scent of spilled beer.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Low music hums in the background, mixed with occasional laughter.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The group of boys is already seated at a table near the door, a few half-full mugs in front of them.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
As soon as Luca and Faggioli walk in, the others notice right away.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Friend 1 (surprised):<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Oh, look who it is!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Luca\u2026 and even Faggioli!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Friday afternoon miracles!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Luca, with a nervous but proud smile, walks over:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Luca (with theatrical flair):<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Today we drink!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
General laughter.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The guys cheer him on, hand him a glass.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Then another\u2026 and another.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Luca laughs, wipes his mouth on his sleeve, and pretends to be a tough guy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli\u2026 always one step behind.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Silent.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
But watchful.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Calculating.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
At one point\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
While the group is distracted\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli slowly opens a small packet hidden in the inner pocket of his jacket.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Extremely fine powder\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Ground walnuts\u2026 reduced to dust\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
With a swift, precise motion\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
He pours it into Luca\u2019s glass and stirs with a tiny spoon he had in his pocket.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
—<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Igor (offscreen):<\/p>\n\n\n\n
A ground-nut potion in full secret agent style! What\u2019s next?<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Exploding chickpeas?! \ud83e\udd23<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u2026 And then? You\u2019ll go by the name\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Agent Zero Zero Hoe. \ud83e\udd23<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u2026 In service of Her Green Majesty! \ud83e\udd23<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u2026 Less a deadly spy, more a composting hoe! \ud83e\udd23<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u2026 With a license to till! \ud83e\udd23<\/p>\n\n\n\n
—<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Scene: Secret Military Base \u2013 Igor\u2019s Imagination<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Enemy Soldier<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Sir, something incredible happened.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Enemy General<\/p>\n\n\n\n
What?<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Soldier<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Someone tilled the garden of our secret base last night!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
General (staring into space, grim):<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u2026Again?<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Soldier<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Yes, sir! He pulled up all the weeds! And\u2026 and he left a note.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
General (tense):<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Read it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Soldier (opens the paper, trembling):<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cSoil discipline is the beginning of heart discipline.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Signed\u2026 00Hoe.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
General (furious, rising to his feet):<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Damn it! He\u2019s back!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Soldier<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Who, sir?<\/p>\n\n\n\n
General<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Him\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The ghost of the garden.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The shadow that tills while others sleep.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The terror of invasive plants!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Soldier<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Sir\u2026 what should we do?<\/p>\n\n\n\n
General<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Nothing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Ready the rakes.\ud83e\udd23<\/p>\n\n\n\n
And\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Alert the horticulturist.\ud83e\udd23<\/p>\n\n\n\n
E<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Waiting Room<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Paco<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The black swallowtail mimics the pipevine swallowtail (Battus philenor). In this case, females are better mimics than males, but males only do worse when predators can see the dorsal side of the wings. On the underside, the protection is the same.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The eastern tiger swallowtail also shows a female mimic of B. philenor. The red-spotted admiral (Limenitis arthemis) also mimics B. philenor, with the degree of mimicry varying between populations.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Papaia<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Wow. You know everything about butterflies, Paco!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Paco<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Let\u2019s just say I pick things up on the fly! \ud83e\udd23<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Part 21<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Flashback \u2013 Interior \u2013 Bar near the school \u2013 Moments later\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Friend 2 (checking his watch):<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Guys, I gotta go\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
If my dad catches me, I\u2019m dead\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Friend 1:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Yeah\u2026 C\u2019mon, Luca\u2026 you stay and keep being a tough guy\u2026 We\u2019re outta here!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Goodbyes, laughter, jokes\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
In a few seconds\u2026 only Luca and Faggioli remain.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Luca, now a bit tipsy, laughs to himself.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Luca (raising the contaminated glass):<\/p>\n\n\n\n
And this\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Is to prove\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
That I\u2019m not who I used to be!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
He downs it all in one gulp\u2014the glass into which Faggioli had added the walnut powder.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Watches silently.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Hands clasped on the table.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Stare fixed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Calm.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Almost\u2026 expectant.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Igor (voice-over):<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Luca wanted to prove he was a man.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli just wanted to prove that man\u2026 is fallible. \ud83e\udd23<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u2026It wasn\u2019t an attack.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
It was a lesson\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Administered in small\u2026 micronized doses. \ud83e\udd23<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Part 22<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Flashback \u2013 Interior \u2013 Bar near the school \u2013 Moments later\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Luca starts coughing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
He scratches his neck.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
His face turns red\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
His eyes swell up\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Breathing becomes difficult.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Luca (gasping):<\/p>\n\n\n\n
F\u2026Faggioli\u2026 I\u2026 I don\u2019t\u2026 I don\u2019t feel good\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli, without the slightest panic, pulls out his phone.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
His voice calm, precise, textbook-perfect:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli (on the phone):<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Hello? Ambulance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
There\u2019s a boy having a severe allergic reaction.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Bar \u201cda Gigi\u201d, near the school.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Please hurry.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
While waiting for the ambulance, he lays Luca down, lifts his head, and holds his hand.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Only now do the other patrons in the bar notice what\u2019s happening.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Customer:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Hey\u2026 that kid\u2019s choking!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli, voice steady but with a touch of fake emotional tremor like a true hero:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
He\u2019ll be fine.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Don\u2019t worry.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
I\u2019m not leaving him alone.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
A few minutes later\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The ambulance arrives.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The paramedics rush Luca away on a stretcher.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli stands outside the bar\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Hands in his pockets\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Posture stiff\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
His face carved into a flawless expression of restrained concern and silent courage.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Two classmates happen to pass by and see him:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Classmate (whispering, wide-eyed):<\/p>\n\n\n\n
It was Faggioli who saved him\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
He helped him first\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
He practically saved his life\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Igor (voice-over):<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Once upon a time, there was a boy allergic to walnuts\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
And another allergic to chaos.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Guess who won. \ud83e\udd23<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u2026Luca feared nuts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli had a teaspoon.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The rest is history. \ud83e\udd23<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u2026Faggioli\u2019s School of Discipline:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u2013 Rule 1: Identify the problem.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u2013 Rule 2: Grind it to dust. \ud83e\udd23<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u2013 Rule 3: Serve it cold. \ud83e\udd23<\/p>\n\n\n\n
In the wrong classmate\u2019s glass. \ud83e\udd23<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Part 23<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Flashback \u2013 Interior \u2013 Classroom \u2013 Morning, the next day<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The bell has just rung.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The students are seated, still half-asleep.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The atmosphere is weirder than usual\u2026 like everyone\u2019s waiting for something.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The teacher enters, with a smile wider than usual.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
She stops at the front of the class.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Teacher (looking at the class):<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Before we begin\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
I have some wonderful news to share.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Luca is out of danger.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
A wave of relief moves through the classroom. Applause starts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Teacher:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
And\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
I also want to publicly thank\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
One of your classmates\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Who, with quick thinking and a cool head\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Literally saved his life.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Everyone turns to look at Faggioli.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Some start clapping.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Others gaze at him with genuine admiration.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Classmate (whispering to the student next to her):<\/p>\n\n\n\n
I never would’ve guessed\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli\u2026 a hero\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli remains composed, his face serious and humble\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
But inside\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
A strange warmth begins to rise in his stomach.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
A subtle\u2026 poisonous pleasure.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
At that moment\u2026 the classroom door opens.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Luca enters, pale but smiling.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
He\u2019s barely able to stand\u2026 still has bandages and dark circles under his eyes\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
But\u2026 he\u2019s alive.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Teacher (smiling):<\/p>\n\n\n\n
And here he is\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Our survivor!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
A stronger round of applause erupts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Some students stand and cheer.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Luca walks toward the front of the class.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Luca (voice slightly shaky but full of gratitude):<\/p>\n\n\n\n
I just wanted to say\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Thank you\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
To all of you\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
But especially to\u2026 to Faggioli\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
If it weren\u2019t for him\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
I\u2026 I wouldn\u2019t be here now\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
He helped me overcome my fear\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
And\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
He saved my life\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Really\u2026 thank you.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Another round of applause.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Someone pats Luca on the back.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli remains seated, back straight, hands clasped on the desk.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
He says nothing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
But his gaze\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Fixes into space.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Calculating.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Analyzing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Memorizing every detail of that feeling.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Igor (voice-over):<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli\u2026 the new hero of class 3B.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Dressed like it\u2019s the early 1900s, zappa in hand, and enemies\u2026 kneeling on chickpeas! \ud83e\udd23<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Igor<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Scene \u2013 Faggioli\u2019s Apartment \u2013 Igor\u2019s Imagination<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Look, Father! I\u2019m on my knees on the chickpeas! \ud83e\udd23<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Father<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Get up, son! The neighbor called again!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Yes, Father! Time to… Hoeboy! \ud83e\udd23<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Exterion – courtyard.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Kid 1<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Now I\u2019m gonna steal another goal shot!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Neighbor<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Cut it out! It\u2019s 2 PM! I need my nap! \ud83e\udd23<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Kid 2<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Go back to sleep and quit whining!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Neighbor<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Brats! Hoeboy is coming! \ud83e\udd23<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Hoeboy<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Discipline and respect\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Kid 1<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Who\u2019s that?<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Kid 2<\/p>\n\n\n\n
What\u2019s with his voice?<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Hoeboy<\/p>\n\n\n\n
I am Hoeboy, defender of condo justice!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Kid 2<\/p>\n\n\n\n
He seems nuts!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Kid 1<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Look how he\u2019s dressed! Like my grandpa!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Kid 2<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Yeah, but he\u2019s a kid! Like us!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Hoeboy<\/p>\n\n\n\n
You\u2019ve violated Code 24 of the condo treaty on ball games in shared areas. On the chickpeas\u2026 now!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Kid 1<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Take this power shot!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
BAM<\/p>\n\n\n\n
ZAP<\/p>\n\n\n\n
SSHH<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Kid 2<\/p>\n\n\n\n
No! He hoed the ball! \ud83e\udd23<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Hoeboy<\/p>\n\n\n\n
And now I\u2019ll hoe you too! \ud83e\udd23<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Kid 1<\/p>\n\n\n\n
No! Wait! We surrender!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Neighbor<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Rudeness never pays! \ud83e\udd23<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Hoeboy<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Discipline is the seed of peaceful living! \ud83e\udd23<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Alfonso (Father)<\/p>\n\n\n\n
And now\u2026 get back\u2026 on your knees on the chickpeas! \ud83e\udd23<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Part 24<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Flashback \u2013 Interior \u2013 Faggioli\u2019s Room \u2013 Evening<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The room is obsessively tidy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Every book perfectly aligned.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Every pencil sharpened to the same length.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli sits on the bed, the TV on at low volume.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
A documentary is playing\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Narrator (from the TV):<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201c\u2026psychology is a complex discipline\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
A true intellectual endeavor\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
It requires study, analytical skills\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
And a deep understanding of the human mind\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli stares at the screen.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The words \u201cintellectual endeavor\u201d echo in his head.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
He gets up slowly\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Walks over to the mirror above his desk\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Looks at himself.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
And as always\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
In the reflection\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
His father appears.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Father<\/p>\n\n\n\n
(disgusted, almost shouting):<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Endeavor\u2026 WHAT?!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Intellectual?!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Have you lost your mind?!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
You don\u2019t work the land with words!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
You work it with a hoe!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
With sweat!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
With dirty hands!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Not these\u2026 bourgeois games!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli lowers his gaze for a moment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
His hands tremble.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Then\u2026 in a faint voice:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
But\u2026 sir\u2026 we won the battle\u2026 with the mind\u2026 with psychology.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Father<\/p>\n\n\n\n
(cutting him off, furious):<\/p>\n\n\n\n
No \u201cbut.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Those who use words are intellectuals.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
You must use the hoe. Not words.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Now get on your knees on the chickpeas!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Until this\u2026 MADNESS passes!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Yes sir.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli goes to the closet, takes out the old bag of dried chickpeas\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Pours them on the floor\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Kneels\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Alone.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
In silence.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Staring ahead\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Proud\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
But full of pain.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
As he punishes himself, Alfonso\u2019s voice still echoes in his mind:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Father:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Discipline above all\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Above all\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Igor (voice-over):<\/p>\n\n\n\n
One day he\u2019ll become a psychologist\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
As soon as his father stops yelling from the mirror. \ud83e\udd23<\/p>\n\n\n\n
F<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Waiting Room<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Paco<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Many caterpillars are designed to feed on plants with chemical defenses that make them unappealing to other insects.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Igor<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Kind of like Ravioli and his 11 a.m. snack stash? \ud83e\udd23<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Banani<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Which insect would want to eat Ravioli?<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Igor<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Ants, flies, mosquitoes\u2026 with that sugary sweat of his, he attracts them all! \ud83e\udd23<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Ravioli<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Yeah? Still better than smelling like fish, broccoli, and weeds like Faggioli! \ud83e\udd23<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Everyone laughs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Paco<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The most obvious example is the monarch butterfly, which feeds on the noxious milkweed, but there are others.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Black swallowtail caterpillars feed on plants that contain chemicals causing oxidative stress. That\u2019s why they have significantly higher levels of antioxidants than other insects, to counteract those substances.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
This species also has enzymes specially designed to quickly break down other toxins in the plants they eat.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
A subspecies of the eastern tiger swallowtail is even capable of feeding on the highly toxic leaves of the Salicaceae family, with a good survival rate.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Igor<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Kind of like Ravioli\u2019s Friday night TV dinners! \ud83e\udd23<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Part 25<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Flashback \u2013 Interior \u2013 School Office \u2013 Day<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Teenage Faggioli is sitting in front of the school psychologist, after causing yet another incident involving his hoe.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Psychologist<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli\u2026 you know what you did.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
But I\u2019m not here to scold you.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
I’m here to make you flunk\u2014 I mean, to understand why you did it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli doesn\u2019t answer.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Psychologist<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Can you tell me why you hoed the soccer field?<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli<\/p>\n\n\n\n
(in a low voice)<\/p>\n\n\n\n
It was necessary.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Psychologist<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Necessary? In what way?<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli<\/p>\n\n\n\n
(still quiet, but with growing conviction)<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Soccer\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
is a pastime for people who are afraid of work.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
People chasing a ball\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
fooling themselves into thinking they\u2019re doing something useful.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
That field\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
that flat, green, perfect stretch of land\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
was a waste.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
A sterile wasteland.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The earth\u2026 is not meant to be trampled by colorful shoes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The earth deserves honor.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
It should be hoed. Worked.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
I\u2026 did what was right.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
I freed the field.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
I made it fertile.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Now something can grow.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Sports bear no fruit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The hoe does.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The psychologist stares at him, steady, calm. There’s a beat of silence.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Psychologist<\/p>\n\n\n\n
(in a calm but increasingly firm tone)<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli, I understand that the hoe is sacred to you.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
It stands for order, discipline, hard work.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
But you need to understand something:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The hoe\u2026 isn\u2019t everything.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli\u2019s eyes widen, stunned.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Psychologist<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Society doesn\u2019t run on agriculture alone.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
There are other jobs\u2014just as useful, just as necessary.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Who designed the tractors you use to plow the land?<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Who built the roads that carry your crops to market?<\/p>\n\n\n\n
What about the water you use to irrigate your fields?<\/p>\n\n\n\n
An engineer designed the aqueduct.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
And how did he do that? By hoeing? No.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
He did it by studying. With his mind. With intellectual work.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
There are many jobs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Some are manual. Some intellectual.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
And each one depends on the others, like gears in a machine.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Different from each other\u2014<\/p>\n\n\n\n
But essential.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli<\/p>\n\n\n\n
(shocked)<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The hoe\u2026 isn\u2019t\u2026 everything?<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli is left completely disoriented.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Psychologist<\/p>\n\n\n\n
I hope that sinks in.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Now you can go. I\u2019ll see you next week.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Igor<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Hoeing with your head? It\u2019s a tough job, but someone\u2019s gotta do it! \ud83e\udd23<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Part 26<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Flashback \u2013 Interior \u2013 Faggioli\u2019s House \u2013 Evening<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli is sitting in front of the TV.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
He flips through channels aimlessly.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Suddenly, the school psychologist appears inside the broadcast.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli freezes in fear.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The psychologist looks at him from inside the screen.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli<\/p>\n\n\n\n
How is this possible?<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Psychologist<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Anything is possible, Faggioli\u2026 with the power of the mind.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli<\/p>\n\n\n\n
But\u2026 you\u2026 you’re talking to me?<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Psychologist<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Yes, Faggioli. And I\u2019m here to tell you a secret.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli<\/p>\n\n\n\n
A secret?<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Psychologist<\/p>\n\n\n\n
You see, Faggioli\u2026 the mind is a powerful, sharp tool.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Sharper than any hoe.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Sharper than a hoe? No. I don\u2019t believe that.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Psychologist<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Yes. Because your mind can bend the will of others.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
True strength isn\u2019t in the arm.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
It\u2019s in the word. In the stare.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
In a well-timed silence.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
And you?<\/p>\n\n\n\n
You were born to use that tool.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
You were born to be a psychologist.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The camera slowly zooms in\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli<\/p>\n\n\n\n
But\u2026 my father doesn\u2019t want that.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
He says it\u2019s a job for lazy people.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
He says life is about discipline.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Psychologist<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Lazy, huh? Let me tell you something.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Your father has a very limited view.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Those who work with their hands\u2026 serve their masters.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
They work without thinking.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
But those who use their minds\u2026 they have control.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
And discipline\u2026 comes from control.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Control is above discipline?<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Psychologist<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Exactly. You\u2019re starting to understand.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The farmers hoe the land\u2026 but the master gives the orders.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
And you were born to be a master, not a servant.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli<\/p>\n\n\n\n
A master\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Psychologist<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Yes, Faggioli.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Master of your own mind\u2026 and of others who are weaker.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Master\u2026 how?<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Psychologist<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Just like me.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Like a psychologist.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli<\/p>\n\n\n\n
My father\u2026 he won\u2019t let me\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
And I\u2026 I must obey him.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Psychologist<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Exactly.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
That\u2019s how it works.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
One commands, the other obeys.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The strong one dominates the weak.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
And controls him.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli<\/p>\n\n\n\n
You mean\u2026?<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Psychologist<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Yes, Faggioli.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The stronger one is the one who sees farther.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
And you\u2014<\/p>\n\n\n\n
You\u2019ve just seen your future.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
You are in control now.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Yes\u2026 control!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Just behind the door, his mother watches quietly.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
She sees Faggioli speaking to the TV\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Switching voices like he\u2019s acting out both parts of a stage play.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Tears run down her face as she tries not to make a sound.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Igor<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The Faggioli house\u2014<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The only place in town where the TV worked without a remote! \ud83e\udd23<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Too bad it turned on by itself\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
and you couldn\u2019t change the channel! \ud83e\udd23<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Didn\u2019t even need to be plugged in! \ud83e\udd23<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Everyone just saw their own customized hallucination! \ud83e\udd23<\/p>\n\n\n\n
It was basically TV on demand\u2026 but with a mental subscription! \ud83e\udd23<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Great programming, if you’re into talking hoes and ghost dads. \ud83e\udd23<\/p>\n\n\n\n
For the Faggiolis, that TV was a psychedelic trip\u2014no remote required! \ud83e\udd23<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Part 27<\/p>\n\n\n\n
NIGHT \u2013 FAGGIOLI\u2019S BEDROOM \u2013 INTERIOR<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli lies in bed, eyes half-shut, mind teetering between sleep and nightmare.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Suddenly, a cold, thunderous voice shatters the silence.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
FATHER (booming, furious):<\/p>\n\n\n\n
What have you done?<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli jolts upright, gasping for breath.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
FAGGIOLI (uncertain, voice trembling):<\/p>\n\n\n\n
I\u2026 I signed up for psychology.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
FATHER (roaring, threatening):<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Psychology?!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Have you lost your mind?!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
You\u2019ve betrayed the earth.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
You\u2019ve betrayed me.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
FAGGIOLI (in a weak but firm voice):<\/p>\n\n\n\n
It\u2019s to understand. To learn how to use the mind.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Because the mind is stronger\u2026 stronger than the hoe!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The FATHER materializes by the door, his dark, menacing figure filling the room.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
FATHER (with a thunderous voice):<\/p>\n\n\n\n
No! No! It cannot be!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Who put these heresies in your head?!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Who\u2019s the traitor that corrupted you?<\/p>\n\n\n\n
FAGGIOLI (trembling, looking him in the eyes):<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The school psychologist.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The father\u2019s face twists into a mask of hatred and disgust.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
FATHER (shouting):<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Idiot!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Fool!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Uproot this madness now!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Cancel that enrollment!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
FAGGIOLI<\/p>\n\n\n\n
I won\u2019t do it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Psychology\u2026 I like it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
It\u2019s made for me.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
FATHER<\/p>\n\n\n\n
How dare you speak to me like that?!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Obey!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
FAGGIOLI (voice cracking, but resolute):<\/p>\n\n\n\n
No. Sir.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
I will not obey.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
An eerie silence. Faggioli\u2019s breath is labored, as the dark presence of his father surrounds him.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
FATHER (in a venomous whisper, dripping with condemnation):<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Deserter.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
You\u2019ve turned your back on the hoe, the blood, the toil.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
You\u2019ve chosen the tongue.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
So be it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Because you betrayed me with your tongue\u2026 your tongue will betray you with your patients, every day of your life.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Every word will be a blade against yourself.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Your path will be marked by slips, deceit, and downfall.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The poison of your own words will break you.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The father vanishes into the cold air.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli collapses to his knees, forehead to the floor.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
In his eyes, despair and defiance mix as he whispers to himself.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The TV, resting on a table, flickers on by itself.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Amidst the static, the psychologist appears on screen.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
PSYCHOLOGIST<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Good, Faggioli. I see we\u2019re making progress.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Ignore him. He\u2019s the past.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
I am the future\u2014<\/p>\n\n\n\n
And I\u2019m here to guide you and give you the proper curse\u2014<\/p>\n\n\n\n
I mean\u2026 direction.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
IGOR<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The price of freedom? Getting disowned by an imaginary great-grandpa. \ud83e\udd23<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli, the disinherited man searching for a new legacy within\u2026 and finding chickpeas. \ud83e\udd23<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Part 28<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Flashback \u2013 Interior \u2013 Faggioli\u2019s Bedroom \u2013 Evening<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli stands in front of the mirror.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
He watches himself in silence.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
He slowly runs his fingers through his hair, then stops.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
A few strands remain between his fingers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
He looks at them.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Lets them fall into the sink.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli (half-whisper, almost to himself):<\/p>\n\n\n\n
More and more\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
He leans in, examining his temples more closely.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The thinning patches look wider than a few months ago.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
It starts like this\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
First a little\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Then a little more\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Then\u2026 the desert.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
He runs his hand over his head angrily, as if trying to force the hair back into place.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli (with a trace of bitterness):<\/p>\n\n\n\n
And them\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
They don\u2019t get it\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
They laugh\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
But they have no idea what it means\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
To lose pieces of yourself\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Bit by bit\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Every day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
He stops.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Forces a half-smile.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli (with a harder tone, almost a restrained growl):<\/p>\n\n\n\n
But they\u2019ll laugh again\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
We\u2019ll see who laughs last.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
He stares at his reflection.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
His eyes grow colder.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
More calculating.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Igor<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Baldness is a sensitive issue. While Faggioli was out there pulling roots from the ground with his hoe, he was also losing the last roots on his scalp! \ud83e\udd23<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u2026seriously, when your hallucination mocks your bald spot, is that self-deprecating humor? \ud83e\udd23<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u2026when even your imaginary great-grandpa has more hair than you, it\u2019s time to admit there’s a problem! \ud83e\udd23<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u2026Faggioli was a man of deep roots\u2026 just not in every sense! \ud83e\udd23<\/p>\n\n\n\n
G<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Waiting Room<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Paco<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Some butterflies can alter aspects of their behavior or coloration depending on the environment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Banani<\/p>\n\n\n\n
What do you mean? Like they change color?<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Paco<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Yes. For example, the black swallowtail, when the caterpillar enters the pupa stage, detects the amount of light it receives and changes the chrysalis color accordingly!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Papaia<\/p>\n\n\n\n
So it changes color based on the light?<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Paco<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Exactly. The zebra swallowtail (Eurytides marcellus) pupa also changes its color to blend in with the environment. In this case, even the visual texture of the surface can influence its coloration.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Banani<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Like chameleons?<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Paco<\/p>\n\n\n\n
More or less! But there\u2019s a key difference: chameleons change color actively, in real time. Butterflies, on the other hand, choose the pupa\u2019s color only once\u2014during transformation\u2014and there\u2019s no turning back!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Igor<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Kind of like when Ravioli picks a pizza flavor. Once he says \u201ctriple cheese and salami\u201d\u2026 there\u2019s no going back. \ud83e\udd23<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Paco<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The common buckeye (Junonia coenia) changes the wing pattern depending on the seasons, helping it regulate body temperature.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Banani<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Oh! I know that one! It\u2019s like the Chantilly butterfly! Always changing coats! \ud83e\udd23<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Papaia<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Hey! Leave my sister out of it! I don\u2019t like those jokes!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Igor<\/p>\n\n\n\n
You don\u2019t like them\u2014and neither does your bank account! \ud83e\udd23<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Paco<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The painted lady changes the color of its wings in response to environmental stress. Even the \u201ceye spots\u201d on its wings change in response to both cold and heat fluctuations. And despite having tiny brains, cabbage whites (Pieris rapae) can learn to recognize nectar-rich flowers and remember them for up to three days\u2014even while learning to identify a second one!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Igor<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Not like \u201csomeone\u201d here who still can\u2019t remember the telescope buttons! \ud83e\udd23<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Part 29<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Flashback \u2013 Interior \u2013 University Hallway \u2013 Day<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Students have just stepped out of class.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The air is full of that mid-morning break vibe: chatter, laughter, unzipped backpacks.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli leans against a column, his gaze cold and calculating.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Next to him are Antonio\u2014a tall guy with a freshly styled, shiny head of hair\u2014and Marco, the class clown.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli eyes Antonio, giving him a look somewhere between fake curiosity and sarcasm.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli (with a poisonous smile, sharp tone):<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Antonio\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
What happened at the barber?<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Did he cut you crooked?<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Or was it a failed landscaping experiment?<\/p>\n\n\n\n
A few giggles ripple through the group.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Antonio runs a hand through his hair, pretends to laugh, but looks thrown off.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Marco jumps in, seizing the moment with a loud voice that carries halfway down the hall:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Marco (laughing out loud):<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Come on, Faggioli\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
What do you know about haircuts?<\/p>\n\n\n\n
For you, a barber is optional\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
You don\u2019t even have hair!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Laughter erupts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Someone slaps a desk.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Antonio laughs it off, relieved.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
On the other side of the hallway, side comments begin to fly.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Lightly spoken, but sharp as razor blades.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Student 1<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Well, poor guy\u2026 it\u2019s not his fault.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Student 2<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Yeah, but maybe he shouldn\u2019t have made that crack about the barber.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Student 3<\/p>\n\n\n\n
He was asking for it, honestly.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Student 4<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Marco\u2019s right. All Faggioli\u2019s missing is some head polish.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Female student (ironically, under her breath):<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Come on, it\u2019s not his fault he started going bald at sixteen\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Student 3 (more serious, dry tone):<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Yeah, but\u2026 if you can\u2019t laugh at yourself, you\u2019re done for.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Student 1 (softly, smiling):<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Still, Faggioli was right. That barber didn\u2019t do a great job.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Student 2<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Sure\u2014but not worse than how Faggioli looks.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli stands motionless.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
A tight smile on his lips.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
But his eyes\u2026 his eyes are ice.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
He says nothing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Doesn\u2019t react.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Not yet.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
He simply stares at Marco.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
In silence.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
With unsettling calm.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Igor<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Can someone explain this?<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Why does hair always fall out on the people with no sense of humor? \ud83e\udd23<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Part 30<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Flashback \u2013 Interior \u2013 Faggioli\u2019s Bathroom \u2013 Evening<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli stands in front of the bathroom mirror.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
He runs his fingers over his scalp again and again, inspecting the receding hairline growing more obvious each day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
He stops.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Stares at his reflection.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Suddenly\u2026 his father\u2019s voice (imaginary), sharp and commanding, echoes in his head.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Father<\/p>\n\n\n\n
(harsh, imperious):<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Look at yourself\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
You can\u2019t even stand up to a kid\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
And look at that hair\u2014<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Or rather\u2026 that misery!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli swallows hard, lowers his gaze.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Father<\/p>\n\n\n\n
(even sharper, almost scornful):<\/p>\n\n\n\n
I\u2026 I had a full head of hair at your age!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Full!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Not this barren wasteland!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli grips the sink tightly, his knuckles turning white.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli (softly, like a scolded child):<\/p>\n\n\n\n
I\u2026 I couldn\u2019t do it\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Father\u2019s voice (violent, almost growling):<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Enough with the excuses!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Shame isn\u2019t washed away with tears.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
If you don\u2019t react now\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
You\u2019ll never react.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli remains still.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Eyes glassy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
But his jaw clenches.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Father\u2019s voice (cold, commanding):<\/p>\n\n\n\n
I order you\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Tomorrow\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
You go back there.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
And you fight back.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli raises his gaze.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
In the mirror\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
For a split second\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
It\u2019s as if his father is looking back at him\u2014<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Thick hair, blazing eyes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Igor<\/p>\n\n\n\n
According to his dead great-grandpa, Faggioli losing hair was his own fault! \ud83e\udd23<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u2026He should\u2019ve held on to it with mind power! \ud83e\udd23<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u2026Too bad the thoughts scared the hair away! \ud83e\udd23<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u2026Let\u2019s be honest, who wants to live inside Faggioli\u2019s head all day? \ud83e\udd23<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u2026A maze of trauma, hoes, and homeowner regulations! \ud83e\udd23<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Part 31<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Flashback \u2013 FAGGIOLI\u2019S HOUSE \u2013 NIGHT<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli is still in the bathroom, hands gripping the sink. He breathes heavily.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Then, as if trying to distract himself, he walks out and throws himself onto the couch. He turns on the TV.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
ZAP. ZAP. ZAP. Channels flick past. Commercials. A black-and-white movie. A documentary.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Then\u2026 the screen freezes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The school psychologist appears. But it\u2019s not a show. It\u2019s as if he\u2019s staring straight into Faggioli\u2019s eyes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Psychologist (calm, deep, cutting tone):<\/p>\n\n\n\n
You\u2019ve suffered.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
I know.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
But blind rage won\u2019t help you.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Strength\u2026 lies in the mind.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli (staring at the screen, hypnotized):<\/p>\n\n\n\n
I\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
I can\u2019t do it\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Psychologist (gently smiling):<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Yes, you can.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
But you need strategy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
You need to observe.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The camera slowly closes in on Faggioli\u2019s face, lit only by the TV glow.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Psychologist (continuing):<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Watch for their flaws.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Their weaknesses.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The cracks in their armor.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Everyone has them.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Everyone.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli (barely audible):<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Even Marco?<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Psychologist:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Especially Marco.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Find his weak point.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Show him who\u2019s in charge.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli nods slowly, silently.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Psychologist:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
That\u2019s your moment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
You don\u2019t need to shout.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
You don\u2019t need revenge\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
You need control.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
A symbolic image fades in on the screen: a hand clutching puppet strings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Psychologist (softly):<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Control is discipline.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
It\u2019s order.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
It\u2019s power.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
And you\u2026 you were born for this.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
To lead. Not to bow.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Igor (off-screen):<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli was searching for his enemies\u2019 weak spots\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
but all he kept finding were hairs on his pillow.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Maybe, sometimes, the real enemy\u2026 is within. \ud83e\udd23<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Part 32<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Flashback. University Lecture Hall. Morning.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The classroom is packed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Students sit in anticipation\u2014some peeking at notes, others pretending to pay attention.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
On the right side, Faggioli sits silently.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
His gaze locked on Marco, who approaches the front of the room.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Marco holds some crumpled sheets.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
He adjusts his T-shirt.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Runs a hand through his hair, as he always does when he’s nervous.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Professor:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Go ahead, Marco\u2026 it\u2019s your turn. Five minutes. You may begin.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Marco inhales.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
He starts to speak\u2026 but his voice catches in his throat.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Marco (stammering, instantly blushing):<\/p>\n\n\n\n
G-g-good morning\u2026 I\u2026 today I wanted to\u2026 um\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Someone at the back of the room starts to snicker.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Marco lowers his eyes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
His hands tremble.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
His face grows red\u2014right up to his ears.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
He stops.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
For at least ten seconds, total silence.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Someone clears their throat awkwardly.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli watches it all.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Motionless.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Hands folded.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Eyes narrowed, focused.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli (internal thought, icy):<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cSo\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
There it is.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The weak spot\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Marco takes a deep breath, grips the papers tightly and\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u2026slowly regains control.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Marco (voice shaky but steadier):<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u2026And so\u2026 in conclusion\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
we can say that non-verbal communication\u2026 is important\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
to\u2026 to\u2026 convey emotions\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Polite applause.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Marco returns to his seat\u2014still flushed, but relieved.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli watches him.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Serious.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Silent.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
But in his mind\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
something is already taking shape.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Igor<\/p>\n\n\n\n
What was taking shape in Faggioli\u2019s mind?<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Well, it definitely wasn\u2019t a new hairstyle! \ud83e\udd23<\/p>\n\n\n\n
H<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Waiting Room.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Paco<\/p>\n\n\n\n
And do you know what else is fascinating about butterflies?<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Banani<\/p>\n\n\n\n
What?<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Paco<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Migration.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Papaia<\/p>\n\n\n\n
I\u2019ve heard about that in some documentary.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Paco<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Yes, because it\u2019s well known in some butterflies like monarchs, but they\u2019re far from the only ones. Painted ladies also undergo mass migrations, using the sun\u2019s position as a compass to navigate.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Ravioli<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Really? I actually didn\u2019t know that!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Paco<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Butterflies are also somehow able to take advantage of wind currents to migrate more efficiently.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Papaia<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Kind of like birds when they glide.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Paco<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Exactly! Only butterflies are much lighter and more delicate, so they have to be even more careful\u2014if they catch the wrong current, they get thrown off course\u2026 or worse!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Banani<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Yeah, but they don\u2019t go very far!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Paco<\/p>\n\n\n\n
On the contrary. Some of these migrations can cover almost 2,500 miles in a single generation\u2014by a butterfly smaller than a child\u2019s hand!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Even some populations of the cabbage white (Pieris rapae) migrate. They mostly travel with their backs to the sun, sometimes crossing mountain ranges regularly, from spring to autumn.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Ravioli<\/p>\n\n\n\n
That\u2019s impressive!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Paco<\/p>\n\n\n\n
More than that! It\u2019s divine design!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Part 33<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Flashback. Interior \u2013 University courtyard \u2013 Afternoon.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Two or three hours have passed since the presentation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The students are outside, gathered in a circle, chatting, laughing, eating snacks.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Marco, now relaxed, laughs with a small group of friends.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
He feels confident.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The embarrassment from the morning is already forgotten by everyone.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli is sitting on a low wall nearby.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
He listens silently.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
His eyes downcast.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
His hands clasped.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Friend 1<\/p>\n\n\n\n
If there\u2019s one subject I hate, it\u2019s geography.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Friend 2<\/p>\n\n\n\n
I agree. I don\u2019t know why they added that exam to a psychology course.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Friend 1<\/p>\n\n\n\n
By the way, can I borrow your notes from Friday?<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Friend 2<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Which ones? The ones on desertification?<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Friend 1<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Yes, exactly those.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Marco<\/p>\n\n\n\n
You don\u2019t need the notes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Friend 1<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Oh no? Why not?<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Marco<\/p>\n\n\n\n
If you want to study desertification, just take a look at Faggioli\u2019s bald spot!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Burst of laughter.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Someone doubles over.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Others make stadium chants.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli slowly lifts his gaze.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
For a moment, his lips tremble.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Then\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The pressure\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The accumulated humiliation\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The inner voice\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Father\u2019s voice (in his head, harsh and dry):<\/p>\n\n\n\n
NOW!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
React!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
NOW!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli jumps up suddenly.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Takes two steps toward the group.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli (trying to speak in a normal voice\u2026 but it comes out in a very high falsetto):<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Marco the clown. Haha!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Put him on the podium. That guy really makes us laugh! When he acts like a trembling puppy! Haha!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Silence.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Then\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Laughter.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Even louder.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Someone covers their face from laughing so hard.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Others mimic Marco\u2019s trembling.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Marco stands frozen.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Hit in his weakest spot.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Blushes again.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Marco (trying to fight back):<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Ah\u2026 yeah? And who are you? Faggioli, or one of the Chipmans?<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Even more laughter.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
But Faggioli doesn\u2019t stop.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
With the same falsetto voice, even sharper:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli talks like a squirrel\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Marco\u2026 stutters like an old modem!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Haha! Loser! Haha!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
(The laughter becomes a roar.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Someone starts banging their hands on the table.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
A couple of students shout: \u201cWell done, Faggioli!\u201d)<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Marco shakes his head, grabs his stuff, and walks away embarrassed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli stays there, chest rising and falling, still tense.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The falsetto voice\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
still lingering.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
But in his eyes\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
For the first time\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
a spark of satisfaction.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Igor (smiling):<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli had discovered a new side of himself… the one capable of making bullies tremble… and shattering glasses with a well-placed B flat! \ud83e\udd23<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Part 34<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Flashback \u2013 Faggioli\u2019s Room \u2013 Night.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The room is dark, lit only by the flickering light of the turned-on TV.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli is sitting on the edge of the bed, still dressed, his gaze fixed on the screen.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
A comedy show is on TV.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
A ventriloquist performs on stage with a puppet.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Sharp jokes, sarcasm\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The audience in the hall laughs uproariously.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli watches silently.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
His gaze becomes more focused.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The ventriloquist makes the puppet speak:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Puppet (on TV):<\/p>\n\n\n\n
I\u2019m not the one saying these things\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
He\u2019s the one moving my mouth!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The audience bursts into laughter.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli squints.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
He lowers his gaze.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Next to the bed, an old gray sock, worn out and abandoned for days.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
He grabs it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Turns it over in his hands.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli (whispering, almost a murmur):<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Why not\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
He slowly starts putting his hand inside it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Moves it awkwardly a bit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Then tightens the puppet\u2019s mouth\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
And with a hoarse voice, improvises\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli (making the sock talk, with a raspy tone):<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Hey, bald guy\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Ready to show who\u2019s boss around here?<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli freezes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
For a moment he seems scared\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Then he smiles.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli (looking at the sock, with a pleased grin):<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Welcome\u2026 Tony.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Igor<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli recycled an old sock used for a week to create Tony.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
At this point, he didn\u2019t even need to speak to scare off bullies \u2014 just pull out the sock! \ud83e\udd23<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Part 35<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Flashback \u2013 Interior \u2013 Faggioli\u2019s Living Room \u2013 Evening<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The room is dimly lit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli, 16 years old, sits alone on the couch.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The TV is broadcasting a live billiards tournament.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The players wear elegant suits: crisp white shirts, bow ties, steady hands like scalpels.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Soft lighting, silent audience.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Every shot is calculated to the millimeter.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Every mistake\u2026 a dishonor.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli watches\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Hypnotized.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The camera focuses on a player who misses by a few millimeters\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
He shakes his head in self-criticism.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli\u2019s eyes light up.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
His gaze grows more intense.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Father\u2019s voice (in his head, deep and scornful):<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Precision\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Discipline\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Punishment\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
That\u2019s how a man is made\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Every mistake\u2026 must be paid for!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli stands up, runs to his room, rummages in a drawer\u2026 finds an old wooden cue\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
But it\u2019s not enough.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli (panting, talking to himself):<\/p>\n\n\n\n
No\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
It\u2019s not enough\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
I need\u2026 the cue\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The real cue.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Flashback \u2013 Next day \u2013 Sporting goods store<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli stands in front of a rack full of billiard cues.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
He looks at them all.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Chooses one\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Long\u2026 heavy\u2026 black\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The sternest there is.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Shop assistant (with a polite smile):<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Excellent choice! A Brunswick cue, made of solid Canadian ash. Elite model from \u201958.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
147 centimeters. Weight: 540 grams.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Do you play often?<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli<\/p>\n\n\n\n
It\u2019s not a game.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
It\u2019s a tool.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Used to strike down mistakes\u2026 before they become habits.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The assistant stays silent, confused.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli pays and leaves.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Igor<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli interested in billiards?<\/p>\n\n\n\n
No, the doctor prescribed it to him\u2026 \ud83e\udd23<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u2026an ancient pharaoh\u2026 \ud83e\udd23<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u2026in his imagination! \ud83e\udd23<\/p>\n\n\n\n
I<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Waiting room.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Paco<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Many butterflies require specialized host plants for their larvae. The most obvious example is the monarch butterfly, but there are others. For the caterpillars to survive, the mother butterfly must be able to identify the right place to lay her eggs. Some species do this by following substances released by plants, called volatiles.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Banani<\/p>\n\n\n\n
So these chemicals act as olfactory signals? Basically, the butterfly \u201csniffs\u201d the environment to choose the best site?<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Paco<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Exactly, Banani. These volatile compounds are like a real \u201cchemical code\u201d that the butterfly interprets to find the right plant. Thanks to this system, it can avoid plants that are unsuitable or dangerous for its caterpillars.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Papaia<\/p>\n\n\n\n
But how does such a small brain have a sense of smell?<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Paco<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Great question, Papaia! Even though butterfly brains are small, their sensory system is incredibly specialized. They have very sensitive olfactory receptors on their antennae that can detect tiny amounts of volatile molecules in the air.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Banani<\/p>\n\n\n\n
So it\u2019s not so much about having a \u201cbig brain\u201d as having the \u201cright tools\u201d to perceive smells?<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Paco<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Exactly. It\u2019s a combination of highly specific receptors and efficient neural circuits that allows butterflies to quickly recognize and respond to chemical signals in the environment, even with a nervous system simpler than mammals.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Ravioli<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Design once again!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Part 36<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Flashback \u2013 Faggioli\u2019s room \u2013 Night.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli stands in front of the mirror.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The cue rests on the edge of the desk.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
He watches his own hands.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Father\u2019s voice (in his head, sharp as a snap):<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Every mistake\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Is paid for like this!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli grabs the cue.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
He hits his knuckles.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Makes a grimace of pain.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
But makes no sound.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Then he straightens up.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Looks at the cue as if it were a relic.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli (whispering):<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The cue\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Of discipline\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Zoom on Faggioli\u2019s face\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Staring, empty gaze\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
But\u2026 satisfied.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Igor (with a sly smile):<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Actually, it\u2019s not what it seems. Faggioli was simply trying a new way to warm up his hands\u2026 in winter!\ud83e\udd23<\/p>\n\n\n\n
He wanted to warm his hands\u2026 too bad it was summer!\ud83e\udd23<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Part 38<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Flashback \u2013 Faggioli\u2019s room \u2013 Late afternoon<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The room is a temple of order.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Every book aligned, every shirt folded with surgical precision.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli is kneeling, polishing the edges of the mirror.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
He stands up.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Adjusts a vase with measured movements\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
But accidentally bumps the mirror with his elbow.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
CRASH!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The glass shatters into a thousand pieces.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
For a moment\u2026 total silence.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli freezes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
His hands tremble.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Father\u2019s voice (in his head, like thunder):<\/p>\n\n\n\n
INCOMPETENT!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
YOU ARE A DISGRACE!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli grits his teeth.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Immediately kneels on the chickpeas, already ready on the floor nearby.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Grabs the billiard cue\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Two, three knocks on his knuckles.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Harder than usual.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
But this time\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Something different happens.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli\u2019s breathing grows more labored.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
His gaze drifts into emptiness.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
His pupils dilate.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Father<\/p>\n\n\n\n
ENOUGH WHINING!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
GET UP\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
DRESS LIKE A MAN\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli gets up.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Heads to the wardrobe.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Opens an old box at the back.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Inside\u2026 his great-grandfather\u2019s clothes\u2026 the ones Faggioli had hidden years before:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
White shirt, rough wool trousers, dark vest\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
With mechanical gestures\u2026 he puts them on.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Looks at himself in the broken mirror\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Fixes his hair, as much as he has left\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Straightens his back.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli (impersonating the father)<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Tonight\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
We play\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Billiards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Igor<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Tonight we play billiards? Before or after the chickpeas?\ud83e\udd23<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u2026Can Tony play too?\ud83e\udd23<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u2026How did the game work? Did they split into teams? Like Faggioli and Tony against the father and the psychologist?\ud83e\udd23<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Part 39<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Flashback \u2013 Faggioli\u2019s room \u2013 Next morning.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The alarm rings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli wakes up in his bed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Dressed normally.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
As if nothing had happened.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
He runs a hand over his face\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Notices some scratches on his knuckles.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
He looks at the floor\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Still some pieces of broken mirror scattered here and there.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Strange\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
My hands hurt\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
And\u2026 why do I smell like smoke?<\/p>\n\n\n\n
He turns on the radio to the local station:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Announcer<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201c\u2026and the witnesses are still in disbelief, after a mysterious man, dressed in period clothes, crushed everyone at table number 3 of the old Bar Arsenic\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli pales.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Igor<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Who was the mysterious man?<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Actually, Faggioli didn\u2019t care about that at all!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
What scared him was the number 3!\ud83e\udd23<\/p>\n\n\n\n
J<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Waiting room.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Paco<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The black swallowtail can detect the volatile compounds of its host plant as soon as it starts flying, and with experience it gets better at pinpointing where these signals come from.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Banani<\/p>\n\n\n\n
So it\u2019s kind of like it learns to \u201csmell\u201d better as it gets older?<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Paco<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Exactly, Banani. Monarch butterflies do something similar too\u2014they follow the volatiles of milkweed to find the best places to lay their eggs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Papaia<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Is it like when a dog follows a scent trail?<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Paco<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Yes, that\u2019s a good comparison. For example, female common buckeyes recognize a compound called iridoid glycoside in plants and choose to lay their eggs where there\u2019s more of it, because it\u2019s better for the caterpillars.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Banani<\/p>\n\n\n\n
And what about cabbage whites? Can they do the same?<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Paco<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Yes, cabbage whites use volatiles to find their preferred plants. Interestingly, they can even be attracted to less ideal plants if those plants are treated with volatiles from the ideal ones.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Papaia<\/p>\n\n\n\n
So these chemical signals are like a kind of \u201clanguage\u201d that butterflies understand to survive?<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Paco<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Exactly, Papaia. Without this language, butterflies risk choosing the wrong plants and jeopardizing their larvae\u2019s survival.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Part 40<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Flashback. Faggioli\u2019s apartment. Evening.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli is sitting at the table, studying an old psychology manual.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
He tries to concentrate\u2026 but an unbearable noise comes from the neighbor\u2019s TV on the adjacent wall.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Neighbor\u2019s TV voice (loud and annoying):<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Welcome to \u201cTruth Live\u201d!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Today we talk about gender equality\u2026 and the incredible story of a woman\u2026 plumber!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli closes his eyes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The veins in his neck tense.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli (whispering through clenched teeth):<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Breathe\u2026 count to ten\u2026 none of your business\u2026 none of your business\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The TV keeps going.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
TV guest:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u2026A woman who defies stereotypes! We\u2019ll see her in action with wrenches and clogged pipes!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Silence. Then\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Father\u2019s voice (sharp, inside Faggioli\u2019s head, like a billiard cue striking the table):<\/p>\n\n\n\n
A woman\u2026 plumber?!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
SHAME!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Women should knit socks!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Not fiddle with pipes!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli springs up like a coil.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
He goes to the wardrobe. Dresses like his father.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Grabs the hoe\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Knuckles clenched\u2026 eyes empty and icy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli (in a hard voice, impersonating his father):<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Now I\u2019ll teach her\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
What a man\u2019s job is!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Igor<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Women should knit socks and not mess with pipes? Wrong, Faggioli. Actually, crochet hooks are pipes with points!\ud83e\udd23<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Part 41<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Flashback \u2013 Interior \u2013 Neighbor\u2019s house<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The neighbor is laughing alone on the couch, munching on chips.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The TV is at full volume.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
TV voice:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u2026And today our plumber will show us how to replace a gasket!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
BOOM!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The door suddenly bursts open.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli enters, panting\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Hoe in hand.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Neighbor (startled, jumping up):<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Hey! What the heck is he doing?!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli (in his father\u2019s voice, pointing the hoe at the TV):<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Women should knit socks!!!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
CRASH!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
With a sharp strike, he smashes the television.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The neighbor recoils\u2026 shocked.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Without saying another word, Faggioli picks up the pieces of the TV\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Puts them in an old plastic bag\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Leaves through the door\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Igor (smiling):<\/p>\n\n\n\n
If he could choose the punishment, the neighbor would have preferred that instead of smashing it, Faggioli put the device\u2026 on the chickpeas!\ud83e\udd23<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Part 42<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Flashback \u2013 Condominium courtyard<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli, dressed like his great-grandfather, is digging a hole like a prisoner in chains.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
He\u2019s sweating\u2026 breathing hard\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
But he doesn\u2019t stop.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
He throws the TV remains into the pit\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Covers everything with soil.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Levels the ground with obsessive precision.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli<\/p>\n\n\n\n
(standing at attention):<\/p>\n\n\n\n
End of transmission.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The neighbor, still holding his phone, watches the scene from the window.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Neighbor<\/p>\n\n\n\n
(trembling):<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Yes\u2026 hello\u2026 police\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Urgent\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
My neighbor\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Yes\u2026 with a hoe\u2026 he destroyed the TV\u2026 and now\u2026 now he buried it!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Igor<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u2026Faggioli broke the neighbor\u2019s TV, but at least he gave it a proper funeral!\ud83e\udd23<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u2026Faggioli made a mistake burying the TV. What if it rained and a tree grew?\ud83e\udd23<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u2026Faggioli and the TV. Love, hate and\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u2026educational nighttime hallucinations broadcast in 4K.\ud83e\udd23<\/p>\n\n\n\n
With special guests: the father, the great-grandfather, and Tony the sock.\ud83e\udd23<\/p>\n\n\n\n
K<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Waiting room.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Ravioli<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Wow! I\u2019m amazed by the abilities of butterflies!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Paco<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Realize one thing, Ravioli.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Only the almighty Creator of the universe could make something so beautiful and so brilliantly functional.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Papaia<\/p>\n\n\n\n
I agree. Blind chance can\u2019t produce these results, not even in billions of years of attempts!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Paco<\/p>\n\n\n\n
As we can see, butterflies have some very unique traits that allow them to survive and even thrive in our fallen world. Their ability to regulate body temperature, mimic poisonous butterflies, modify colors and behaviors at will, identify host plants by smell, and migrate long distances relying completely on the position of the sun shouts God\u2019s design.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Papaia<\/p>\n\n\n\n
How can a tiny insect, with a brain the size of a pinhead, know how to use the sun as a compass?<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Banani<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Something like that is way beyond the ability of a human engineer and even further from what natural processes could achieve.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Paco<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Only the almighty Creator of the universe could make something so beautiful and so brilliantly functional.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Part 44<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Flashback \u2013 Psychiatric hospital corridor \u2013 Day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli is being dragged down the corridor by two nurses.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
He\u2019s wearing a straitjacket.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
His gaze fixed straight ahead\u2026 a disturbing smile on his lips\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
From the pocket of his jacket, which one of the nurses holds folded under his arm\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Tony the Sock, all dirty with soil, sticks out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
In a small room nearby, two psychiatrists watch him through the glass.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
They speak to each other in low, concerned tones.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Psychiatrist 1<\/p>\n\n\n\n
(scanning the medical file):<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Destruction of private property\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Multiple verbal assaults\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Dissociative crises\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Ritual self-harm\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Extended conversations\u2026 with a sock\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Psychiatrist 2<\/p>\n\n\n\n
(nodding, with a half-incredulous smile):<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Not to mention the compulsive obsession with\u2026 discipline\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Punishments with chickpeas\u2026 hitting hands with a cue stick\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
And that mania for impersonating the dead father\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Assistant<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Actually, he\u2019s not impersonating the father, but the great-grandfather.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Psychiatrist 1<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Interesting, a repression with substitution of the paternal figure.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Igor<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli ends up in the asylum. While they lock him up, he doesn\u2019t object. Alfonso, instead, complains to the nurses: a single cell? Hey, look, there are four of us in here!\ud83e\udd23<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u2026 three and a half\u2026 with Tony the Sock!\ud83e\udd23<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Part 45<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Flashback \u2013 Psychiatric hospital \u2013 Padded cell. Minutes later.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The nurses open the door.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli is gently pushed inside.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Nurse 1<\/p>\n\n\n\n
(to Faggioli):<\/p>\n\n\n\n
You\u2019ll feel better here for a while!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The door closes with a metallic CLANG.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli sits on the floor, his gaze distant\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
But with a smile\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Murmuring something to Tony the Sock, hidden inside his straitjacket\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli (quietly, whispering to Tony):<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Yes, but not for long\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Right, Tony?<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Tony<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Not for long. Morons\u2026 Ahahah!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Igor<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Faggioli isn\u2019t crazy… he\u2019s just consistent to the end.\ud83e\udd23<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u2026Tony the Sock asked for a lawyer. Woolen, of course.\ud83e\udd23<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u2026The cell is small, but Alfonso\u2019s ego fills the whole ceiling.\ud83e\udd23<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u2026That time in the asylum they tried to cure Faggioli\u2026 but he diagnosed them instead.\ud83e\udd23<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u2026Since they washed him, Tony won\u2019t talk anymore. After the wash, he lost the thread of the conversation.\ud83e\udd23<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u2026No one knows if Faggioli ever left the asylum\u2026 or if he founded it himself.\ud83e\udd23<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
Part 1 Three scientists \u2014 Papaia, Banani, and Ravioli \u2014 along with their assistant Igor, work at NASAL. They begin to take an interest in creationism. Alarmed, their superiors send them to a psychologist: Professor Faggioli, a questionable character determined to get them fired by making them seem insane. Faggioli\u2019s office. Papaia leaves the room, … Read more<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[8],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-5499","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-episode"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/savedblog.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/5499","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/savedblog.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/savedblog.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/savedblog.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/savedblog.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcomments&post=5499"}],"version-history":[{"count":1,"href":"https:\/\/savedblog.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/5499\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":5500,"href":"https:\/\/savedblog.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/5499\/revisions\/5500"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/savedblog.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=5499"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/savedblog.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcategories&post=5499"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/savedblog.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Ftags&post=5499"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}