In a secluded corner of a ballroom -

Matteo looked at Ludovica, the faintest hint of a smirk playing on his lips as he watched Ludovica's expression closely. "Let's get one thing straight, Ludovica," he began, his tone low and deliberate. "The Dubois Clan doesn't exactly roll out the welcome mat for you, do they? You're strapped for cash, like why do you even need 80000 Alpenas? Also, if word of what's gone down here tonight reaches Angelina, well, let's just say that won't be the worst of your problems."

Ludovica's eyes narrowed slightly, a mix of suspicion and caution flickering across her features. "What are you getting at, Matteo?" she asked.

Matteo leaned forward. "I'm offering you a way out," he said, his voice smooth and persuasive. "Join me, and you won't regret it. As for our acquaintance Leandro, I can help you take care of that little problem."

Ludovica hesitated "What do you mean by 'join you'? Why would you help me with Leandro after all this? You work for the Abyss....." she demanded, her voice edging on defiance.

Matteo's lips curled into a sly smile. "What if I told you I'm building an organization — a family if you will — where those who are tired of struggling to survive in a world that seems to have turned its back on them, can finally find refuge? A place where loyalty and strength are rewarded not berated."

Ludovica's brow furrowed as she weighed his words, "And what guarantee do I have that you won't stab me in the back later?"

Matteo chuckled softly, "You don't. You'll just have to trust me that I won't betray you."

The tension between them was palpable. Ludovica couldn't shake the feeling of unease. Matteo's offer, though enticing, came with strings attached, and Ludovica wasn't sure if she was ready to commit after the last episode.

Matteo spoke again "Cooperate with me for now," he said, his voice brimming with confidence. "I'll lay out the details of what we'll be doing once you're on board. You're ambitious, Ludovica. No one needs Eighty-thousand Alpenas for nothing. You have a goal, a target that you want to achieve so desperately, and I can help you achieve it. You've seen what I'm capable of." he smiled again.

Ludovica couldn't deny the allure of his words. The offer sounded quite profitable from her current perspective.

Matteo let his words sink before delivering his final offer. "So what do you say, Ms. Ferrari? Join me and break free from your troubles. Or you can go back to facing them alone. Personally, I don't mind adding a few more onto your plate." His grin widened, a glint of mischief sparkling in his eyes.

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"You make a compelling offer, Matteo. But trust isn't something I give easily, especially in our line of work." she paused "I'll join you, Matteo," she said firmly. "But remember, your promise of loyalty goes both ways. Betray me, and you'll regret it."

Matteo nodded, seriously this time, "Now that's something we share in common, Ludovica. Trust must be earned, and I am willing to prove loyalty over time. But in case you betray me, that'll be the last mistake you ever make. It's not a threat it's a promise."

The Third Law of Manipulation - The Law of Desperation - Desperation clouds judgment and impairs critical thinking, making people more willing to accept offers or solutions that promise immediate relief from their dire circumstances, even if they come with hidden costs or risks later. Capitalize on this vulnerability by presenting yourself as a Savior.

Ludovica swallowed hard, the threat hanging heavy in the air. "So what's the plan, Matteo? How will you get 'us' out of this predicament now." she asked, her voice betraying a hint of curiosity.

"Now that's a good question, 'darling'. And the answer is simple-" he paused and smiled "We kill them. All three. Leandro, Finn, and also the other enforcer from the Dubois clan" he smiled.

Ludovica's surprise was evident as Matteo laid out his audacious plan. 'This man is........ABSOLUTELY DUMB! How did I even accept this dud's offer to join him - AM I DUMBER?!'

Ludovica began, her voice tinged with disbelief, "killing members of the Dubois Clan? That's like signing our death warrants. Do you realize what kind of repercussions we'll face if we go through with this? and not to mention THIS IS A PUBLIC ART GALA. You will be found out immediately!"

Matteo's expression remained unwavering as he met Ludovica's gaze. "I'm well aware of the risks, Ludovica," he replied calmly. "But sometimes, drastic measures are necessary to achieve our goals."

Ludovica's brow furrowed as she processed Matteo's words 'This dud is not only dumb but also delusional. Frankly, I pity him now'. "So pray tell how are we going to kill 2 adept Viables in a ballroom full of people and tens of guards who are also Viables?" she asked sarcastically.

Matteo's grin widened "Ah, my dear Ludovica, that's where my expertise comes into play," he replied confidently once again "You see, I have a few tricks up my sleeve that will ensure our success."

"NO! Absolutely not! we are not going forward with this crazy plan. It's simply not possible and quite idiotic actually. Makes me want to punch the man in the face who came up with it!"

Matteo sighed. Well, she was right. This plan was really dumb if you thought with common sense. But common sense didn't apply to Matteo. He had the system! "We will do it like we did earlier. I am going forward with this. If I succeed you will follow my every plan from now on, no matter how crazy it sounds. If I fail, just, don't get involved." he said matter-of-factly. "So, wanna bet?" he challenged her.

Ludovica couldn't help but feel a surge of anticipation at Matteo's words. So despite her reservations, she yielded "Alright, Matteo, I'll trust you on this....even though I don't know why I am doing it. This is dumb. I shouldn't even think of going through with this. But if you are so eager to die, go ahead. But remember, if anything goes wrong, I will disappear like I wasn't even here."

Matteo nodded in agreement with a cocky expression "Understood, Ludovica. But I assure you, nothing will go wrong." he chuckled excitedly.