FREEDOM THROUGH ABSOLUTE POWER."

Ludovica's eyebrows furrowed in thought as she processed Matteo's words. "Freedom through absolute power," she echoed, her voice barely above a whisper. "But what does that mean exactly? What do you mean by 'Freedom'?"

Matteo smiled "A great man once said - Is freedom anything else than the right to live as we wish? Nothing else. (A quote by Epictetus)"

"Live as we please?"

"YES. And such a freedom, Ms. Ferrari, is not for the weak and spineless. It takes strength and courage to be free. Only the powerful and bold can truly be free."

////////////////////

The concept of freedom isn't merely a passive state bestowed by the society.

True freedom isn't found in the absence of constraints but in the ability to confront and transcend them. It necessitates strength of character, the fortitude to challenge societal norms, and the bravery to forge one's own path.

The illusion of freedom that society bestows can deceive the average Joe.

Technically, he's unshackled, free to chart his own course. Yet, lurking in the masses is a pervasive force: the constant tug of competition. Every step forward is met with the step of another average Joe, vying for the same elusive prize. Which none of them will ever get to.

It's a rat race really. And the rats die before they get to eat the cheese in this ceaseless struggle.

So what is true freedom?

True freedom isn't found by winning the race for a podium that has only one spot, but in the ability to rise above its clamor, to carve out a path that transcends the limitations and terms imposed by the masses.

Those who wield power, whether through intellect, influence, wealth or, just sheer determination, possess the capacity to shape their destiny and navigate their existence on their own terms.

In this light, freedom isn't a luxury reserved for the faint-hearted but a privilege earned by the indomitable spirit of the powerful.

////////////////

"So tell me, Mr. Marchesi, how do you plan on becoming powerful? Do you even have a plan?" Ludovica asked after a long pause.

Matteo grinned "You are in." he said, but it was more of a statement, not a question.

Ludovica nevertheless, confirmed it, "I am." She had a determined look in her eyes. She was not faking it.

"Good. And as for the plan, Ludovica, I always have one."

Matteo began laying out his strategy.

"I'm planning to take the Oath of the Shadows soon to join the underworld," he explained.

"Wait, don't you already belong to the shadows?"

"No, not officially," Matteo clarified.

Ludovica was momentarily surprised by this revelation about Matteo being a civilian, but she quickly regained her composure. She was getting accustomed to Matteo's surprises.

If you discover this tale on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen. Please report the violation.

"After I've joined the underworld, we'll establish our own organization," Matteo continued.

"But won't we need to align with a faction?" Ludovica questioned rhetorically.

"Exactly. I'm scouting for a crew—a trusted inner circle to form the core of our organization. I've already recruited one member besides you."

"Excellent. But this won't be easy," Ludovica remarked. "The Giants will surely exert pressure if they see a new organization rising in their territories. We'll either have to submit to them or face dismantlement."

Matteo nodded in agreement. "Exactly. That's where Vignoble comes into play. The underworld here is fractured, divided among various small groups with complex relationships. We'll exploit that."

Ludovica's eyes lit up with understanding. "So instead of confronting the Giants head-on, we focus on manipulating the smaller groups," she deduced.

"Not quite. We won't be forming alliances either. That would mean sharing our power. Power isn't meant to be given, borrowed, or shared; it's meant to be taken," Matteo explained.

"So you plan on eliminating the competition to build our power base," Ludovica concluded.

"Exactly," Matteo confirmed.

"You're insane, and this plan is madness," Ludovica remarked bluntly.

Matteo was momentarily taken aback by Ludovica's straightforward insult, but he quickly recovered. "Yet you're not outright rejecting it?" he noted, smiling.

"Well, you've pulled off seemingly impossible and idiotic plans before, so I'll trust you on this one," Ludovica conceded.

Matteo chuckled. "Should I feel insulted or flattered?"

"Just take it as a compliment," Ludovica replied with a smile.

Matteo shook his head, "Let's go, Ms. Ferrari. I'll fill you in on the rest as we explore the city. We've got work to do."

////////////////////

Matteo and Ludovica strolled through the bustling streets of the city, their footsteps echoing against the cobblestones.

"I'm going to trust you with my plan, Ludovica," Matteo said, his voice low but resolute. "Just don't give me a reason to regret it."

Ludovica met his gaze with a steady nod. "You have my word. I have my own reasons for joining you, after all. I want Pierre Dubois to apologize to me on his knees..." She trailed off, her eyes fixed on the horizon. "And something tells me you're the one who can make that happen."

Matteo's lips quirked into a half-smile. "Well, I won't let you down"

Matteo then causally glanced at the system map he had opened. They had reached a Point of Interest.

"Ruby Royale Resort & Casino?"

[ Obtained 72 Creds ]

"Yeah. What do you say Ludovica, up for some Viable Gambling?"

"I am. But you are not a Viable-....." Ludovica trailed off as she checked Matteo. "You ARE a Viable?!! HOW?!"

"I broke through last night." Matteo smiled.

Ludovica's eyes widened in disbelief. "Last night? How did you manage that? Last time I checked you were just half way through to an Initiate."

"Well, I have been training."

Ludovica shook her head, with a 'I can't believe it' smile. "Well, good for you. Congratulations? I guess I shouldn't be surprised. You always seem to find a way."

As they entered the grand entrance of the Ruby Royale Resort & Casino, the air was alive with excitement and anticipation. Matteo approached the cashier's desk and exchanged 20,000 Alpenas for chips. And Ludovica also exchanged some.

With a stack of chips in hand, Matteo led Ludovica through the bustling casino floor, filled with the sounds of laughter, music, and the clinking of coins.

They steered towards a discreet entrance marked 'Viables' Tables'

"Why do you need more money if you already have 20,000 Alpenas?" Ludovica asked as they entered the separate lounge.

"Because, my dear Ludovica, we need the money for our plans in Vinopolis. And I would assume you're not willing to part with your 80,000 Alpenas from the commission, right?" Matteo replied, exchanging a knowing glance with her.

"And you would assume correctly. That's my money. I am more than willing to give you your share of it, if you need it that is." Ludovica said mischievously.

Matteo chuckled. "No, I don't take money from women except my mother."

Ludovica raised an eyebrow, 'What the-'. She shook her head slightly, a small smile playing on her lips.

"Have you tried Viable gambling before?" Matteo asked.

"I have. What do you want to play?"

"Poker! Texas Hold 'em?" Matteo declared with a grin.

"Alright," Ludovica agreed, her competitive spirit rising to the surface.

Matteo raised an eyebrow as Ludovica took a seat in a different spot at the poker table, deliberately choosing not to sit with him.

"Oh, you sure you wanna play against me, babe?" Matteo teased, a playful smirk tugging at his lips.

Ludovica flashed him a confident grin. "Try not to lose too much, darling~"