Vendetta: Mafia's Deadly Game

Gambling

[Noel's Pov]

[Blue Fressy Bar]

I knew this was my chance. Marcus stood up and headed towards the exit, his eyes scanning the room as he made his way through the crowd. I quickly followed, keeping a safe distance to avoid arousing suspicion.

As Marcus stepped outside, I saw him glance around before entering a nearby alley. I cautiously followed him, my senses heightened with each step. The alley was dimly lit, with the sound of distant traffic echoing in the background. I watched as Marcus stopped in front of a door, hesitating for a moment before entering.

Curiosity got the better of me, and I decided to take a risk. I quietly approached the door and listened for any sounds from inside. Hearing nothing, I slowly turned the doorknob and slipped into the room.

To my surprise, I found myself in a small, dimly lit bathroom. I wonder what he would have come here to do. While Daniel's driver is waiting for him outside. The sound of running water filled the air as I spotted Marcus standing in front of the sink, splashing water on his face. He seemed lost in thought, unaware of my presence.

I knew I had to act quickly. I grabbed a nearby towel and soaked it in chloroform, a substance I always kept handy for situations like these. With a steady hand, I approached Marcus from behind and pressed the towel against his mouth and nose.

Marcus struggled for a moment, his eyes widening in realization, but the chloroform quickly took effect. His body went limp, and I gently lowered him to the floor, making sure not to make any noise that could attract attention.

With Marcus unconscious, I wasted no time. I quickly searched his pockets, finding his identification and the key to his hotel room. I also discovered a hidden compartment in his jacket, containing a sleek black suit, sunglasses, and a fake mustache. "It was the perfect disguise. But Thomas knows why this disguise then?" The first doubt took place in my mind.

Feeling a mix of excitement and nervousness, I changed into Marcus' getup, making sure to adjust the fake mustache to perfection. I glanced at the unconscious Marcus one last time before leaving the bathroom, ready to take on his identity.

[Present]

[Amethyst Diamond Casino]

As I exited the casino restroom, a surge of adrenaline coursed through me. I was aware that Marcus was a high-stakes gambler, and tonight, I would be taking on his role. With confidence, I made my way to the exclusive high-roller section. The dealers and staff greeted me as if they knew me, mistaking me for Marcus. I settled into his usual spot at the table, surrounded by other wealthy gamblers who were oblivious to the switch that had occurred. Now, all I had to do was wait for Thomas Martin to join the game.

Just at that moment, Thomas Martin entered the casino accompanied by two women. Lily, a tall and slender brunette with striking blue eyes that held a mischievous glint, caught my attention. Her long, flowing hair cascaded down her back, adding to her allure. She exuded confidence and seduction, effortlessly captivating anyone who crossed her path. Known for her involvement in daring high-stakes heists, Lily had managed to elude capture numerous times. She had a reputation for her exceptional skills in cracking safes and her ability to vanish without a trace.

On the other hand, the second girl, named Emma, was shorter and had a more petite frame. She had fiery red hair that fell in loose curls around her face, framing her delicate features. Her emerald green eyes sparkled with a mix of intelligence and a touch of danger. She had a mysterious air about her, as if she held secrets that she would never reveal. She had a reputation for being a skilled hacker and had been involved in various cybercrimes. Her ability to manipulate technology and exploit security systems made her a formidable adversary.

As Thomas Martin entered the casino with the two girls, whispers spread throughout the room. People knew of their criminal past and the danger they posed. The trio had recently escaped from a high-security prison, leaving law enforcement agencies baffled. Their escape had been meticulously planned, showcasing their resourcefulness and cunning.

Their reputation preceded them, and it was evident that Lily and Emma were not to be underestimated. They possessed their own unique forms of danger, with Lily's physical strength and Emma's technological expertise. Together, they formed a formidable team capable of executing intricate and audacious criminal schemes. As I sat in my seat, I observed every movement of Thomas.

Then, he approached the Corleone and Moretti families. These two mafias, who were also business partners, found themselves entangled in a perilous drug dealing case within the confines of the casino. Seizing the opportunity, I also stood up and approached Thomas.

Leaning back, I whispered in Thomas's ear the words Marcus had spoken at the Blue Fressy Bar, "Deal 37." I didn't yet know the significance of those words, but I couldn't explain why I felt compelled to share them with him. Thomas carefully examined the mustache on my face and chuckled, motioning for me to sit back down. I understood his gesture.

"You will be playing in my place today, Marcus," Thomas said, placing a hand on my shoulder. I nodded in agreement, displaying my confidence, and began observing the Corleone and Moretti families seated before me, my eyes narrowed.

[Corleone Family]

Benjamin Corleone the aging patriarch of the Corleone family, he exudes an air of authority and power. Dressed in tailored suits, he sports a salt-and-pepper beard and a piercing gaze. Luca "The Snake" Benjamin's trusted lieutenant, known for his cunning and ruthlessness. He is a tall, muscular man with slicked-back black hair and a permanent scowl. Isabella Corleone, Benjamin's daughter, a femme fatale with a taste for danger. She possesses a striking beauty, often seen in elegant dresses and expensive jewelry.

[Moretti Family]

Henry Moretti "The Hammer" the head of the Moretti family, is a towering figure with a shaved head and a thick, graying beard. He favors dark suits and is rarely seen without his gold chain necklace. Marco "The Shadow" Henry's right-hand man, a master of disguise and deception. He is of average height, with a lean build and piercing blue eyes. Marco often changes his appearance, making it difficult to identify him. Sophia Moretti, Henry's daughter, a woman of intelligence and ambition. She possesses a striking resemblance to her father, with long, flowing black hair and a penchant for tailored suits.

And I had to play with those individuals. On one side of a spacious table sat Sophia Moretti and Isabella Corleone. The competition was to be among the three of us, both for this game and for my destiny. As the cards were distributed, a surge of excitement coursed through me. I had effectively infiltrated Marcus' realm, and now, it was my moment to demonstrate my worth. With every hand, I played with precision and expertise, meticulously implementing the strategies I had gleaned from observing Daniel during my espionage.

Hours passed, and the chips piled up in front of me. The other players watched in awe as I seemed to have an uncanny ability to predict their moves. The casino staff whispered amongst themselves, impressed by my seemingly unbeatable winning streak.

But deep down, I knew that my time as Marcus was limited. Eventually, someone would discover the truth, and I would have to face the consequences. But for now, I relished in the thrill of the game, determined to make the most of this unexpected opportunity. After all, in the world of spies and deception, there was no room for sentimentality. It was all about survival, and tonight, I was determined to come out on top.

This game was just an excuse. Benjamin Corleone and Henry Moretti actually met Thomas Martin for another purpose.

Benjamin Corleone leaned in, speaking softly "Thomas, have you brought the 'paintings' we discussed?"

Thomas nodded "Yes, Benjamin Corleone. The 'paintings' are ready for display. Our artists have done their job well."

Henry Moretti smirks "Excellent. Let's ensure they find their way to the 'gallery' without any 'mishaps.'"

Thomas grin "Rest assured, Henry Moretti. Our 'curators' will handle it discreetly. No one will suspect a thing."

Thomas interjected, his voice filled with confidence. "Don't worry, the 'curators' we've hired are experts in their field. They know how to handle delicate matters discreetly."

Benjamin leaned back, a sly smile playing on his lips. "I trust your 'curators,' Thomas. But we must remain vigilant. There are other players in this game, and we can't afford any unwanted attention."

Henry's eyes narrowed, his voice laced with caution. "We've heard rumors of a rival gang trying to infiltrate our operation. We need to be one step ahead of them."

Thomas nodded, his expression serious. "I've taken precautions, Henry. Our 'security' team is on high alert. No one will get past them."

[Casino Basement]

Benjamin and Henry signaled to Luca and Marco who followed Emma and Lily down into the Casino Basement.

Luca leaning against a crate "Marco, have you brought the 'merchandise'?"

Marco smirks, "Indeed, Luca."

Luca nodded "Good. We must ensure the 'collectors' receive their 'packages' without arousing suspicion."

Marco smiled "Absolutely, Luca. Our 'couriers' are experts at delivering 'exquisite pieces' without leaving a trace."

Lily leaning against the railing "Marco, have you secured the 'tickets' for our 'private show'?"

Marco smilies "Yes, Lily. The 'tickets' are ready. Our 'performers' will put on a show no one will forget."

Emma laughs "Perfect. Let's ensure our 'audience' enjoys the 'spectacle' while we handle our 'business' discreetly."

Lily nodded "Agreed, Emma. Our 'stage' will be set, and the 'curtain' will rise on a night they won't soon forget."

[Gambling room]

I was sitting there, attempting to comprehend the coded language used by everyone. Thomas seemed to be conversing with them, but every now and then, his gaze would also fall upon me. I struggled to grasp the fact that he had no doubts about me. The even greater issue was my inability to perform any tricks before he did. Are you aware that this is merely an illusion of mine?

In the midst of their conversation, a waiter approached, offering them drinks. Benjamin accepted, his eyes never leaving the waiter's face. He couldn't afford to let his guard down, not even for a moment.

Henry raised his glass, a toast to their dangerous endeavor. "To the 'gallery' and the 'paintings' that hold our future."

They clinked their glasses together, their eyes filled with determination. In this high-stakes game, they knew that trust and secrecy were their greatest weapons. With no police to interfere, they were free to operate in the shadows, and this casino is protecting them from prying ears.