Mussolini creates the Fasci Italiani di Combattimento when D'Annunzio takes the city of Fiume. He aims to capitalise on the poet's accomplishment in the electoral field.

The elections decree the absolute victory of the socialists. Mussolini seems finished, but landowners and industrialists seek his help against the strikes generated by the Red Biennium.

Upon entering parliament, Mussolini decides to change: he wants to be more strategic, diplomatic and a true statesman. However, the Blackshirts end up rebelling.

The king decides to exclude the socialists from the government following continuous strikes and protests. In reaction, Mussolini threatens a fascist insurrection in an attempt to take everything.

Mussolini wants a new electoral law that would guarantee him an absolute majority. However, Luigi Sturzo, one of the founders of the Italian People's Party and a staunch anti-fascist, opposes the initiative.

Mussolini decides to open the party lists to turncoat politicians of other backgrounds. Forni, an early fascist leader, takes sides against him.