Her name was Elena Vasquez, and she was trouble wrapped in designer clothes and armed with the deadliest smile Alex had ever seen.
She walked into his warehouse hideout like she owned the place, her heels clicking against the concrete with perfect rhythm.
"Alex Chen," she said, not bothering with introductions. "I've been hearing interesting things about you."
*PSYCHOLOGICAL PROFILE: ELENA VASQUEZ*
*FEAR: UNKNOWN*
*DESIRE: UNKNOWN*
*WEAKNESS: UNKNOWN*
*WARNING: SUBJECT APPEARS TO HAVE MENTAL DEFENSES*
For the first time since getting his manipulation ability, Alex couldn't read someone clearly.
"And you are?" he asked.
"Someone who might be able to help with your Marcus problem."
Alex's blood ran cold. Marcus had been acting strangely lately, asking too many questions about the business operations.
"What Marcus problem?"
Elena smiled. "The one where he's been talking to the FBI for the past week."
*BETRAYAL DETECTED*
*QUEST TRIGGERED: ELIMINATE THE TRAITOR*
*REWARD: 100 VILLAIN POINTS*
*FAILURE: IMPRISONMENT OR DEATH*
"Why are you telling me this?" Alex asked.
"Because I have a proposition. I have information you need, resources you want, and skills that could make you very powerful. In exchange..." She stepped closer. "I want partnership. Fifty-fifty split of everything."
"And if I refuse?"
Elena's smile turned predatory. "Then you'll be in federal custody by morning."
*COERCION DETECTED*
*COUNTER-MANIPULATION OPPORTUNITY AVAILABLE*
*SUCCESS CHANCE: 23%*
Alex weighed his options. He could try to manipulate Elena, but the chances were low. He could kill her, but that might make his situation worse. Or...
"Deal," he said, extending his hand.
*PARTNERSHIP FORMED WITH HIGH-VALUE TARGET*
*+75 VILLAIN POINTS*
*WARNING: NEW PARTNER MAY BE MORE DANGEROUS THAN PREVIOUS ENEMIES*
*TOTAL: 350 VILLAIN POINTS*