Ultimate Mafia System

Chapter 39 - Freedom

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."

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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.

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"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.

"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."