บท 191: Chapter 191: United Mafia Forces
The call between Basini and Cuneo ended with Basini realizing the severity of the situation. Hardy's proposed investment promised benefits for others, but it also posed a threat to Corleone's home turf.
From their conversation, it was clear that other Mafia families would prioritize profit over loyalty. If Hardy's investment succeeded, it could shift allegiances, with profit taking precedence over past grudges and rivalries.
Basini knew he had to act quickly. He reached out to Philip and Strache, urging them to use their connections within the Mafia Twenty-Four Committee to hinder Hardy's plans as much as possible.
In Las Vegas, Hardy fielded numerous calls from Mafia family heads. The first was from the Lucchese family patriarch, who controlled Miami and had previously assisted Hardy with the Victor situation.
"Mr. Hardy, I understand you plan to invest 100 million dollars in a new casino?" the Lucchese patriarch inquired.
"Yes, I'm looking to build a new complex with that investment," Hardy confirmed.
The Lucchese patriarch was taken aback. "Could you elaborate on this investment? What's the expected return?"
Hardy grinned, ready to showcase his vision.
"This isn't just a casino. It's a massive complex including a casino, two luxury hotels, a shopping street, large malls, high-end restaurants, a performance center, a sports field, and a conference center. Additionally, there will be a hospital and a university nearby. The hotels will feature 2,000 rooms, the casino will accommodate over 5,000 guests, and other facilities will serve more than 50,000 people."
"The performance center will host world-class events such as the 'Victoria's Secret Angel Lingerie Show' and the 'Miss World Beauty Pageant'. We plan to draw 5 million tourists annually, significantly boosting revenue."
"And if each visitor spends just $100, that's a potential revenue of 500 million dollars. Does this still seem like a hefty investment to you?"
The Lucchese patriarch's skepticism turned into excitement. The projected returns far outweighed the initial investment.
"Are you sure you can attract 5 million tourists?" he asked.
"Possibly more," Hardy replied confidently.
Hardy invited the patriarch to Las Vegas for a firsthand look. "Seeing the Hardy Hotel's daily operations might give you a better perspective than any phone call."
Hardy also mentioned plans to incorporate TV betting lotteries, a lucrative addition that further enticed the Lucchese patriarch.
"Alright, I'll come over," the patriarch agreed, eager to see the potential.
Hardy's strategy of inviting the Mafia family heads to inspect the Hardy Hotel served as both a screening and a display of his power. By hosting these influential figures, Hardy was effectively securing their allegiance or, at the very least, ensuring their investment.
The news of Hardy's invitations spread quickly, reaching Basini and others. Basini, alarmed by the development, contacted other familiar patriarchs to discourage them from attending, suggesting that they could also build casinos and invite everyone to participate later.
Meanwhile, the old godfather of the Corleone family, along with Mike and Tom, discussed the evolving dynamics.
"Father, the relationship among the families is shifting," Tom reported. "Since the last attack, the committee families have united more closely. Basini's influence has grown, but now Hardy's invitation to Las Vegas is causing a shift."
The old godfather, observing the situation, acknowledged Hardy's tactics. "Hardy has disrupted the previous balance of power with a more attractive offer. His ability to break the previous alliances and lure families with significant benefits is impressive."
Mike, reflecting on Hardy's strategy, commented, "Hardy has shown remarkable skill in leveraging profit to shift loyalties. His approach has left Basini and the others scrambling."
The old godfather agreed and decided to support Hardy. "Tom, go to Las Vegas tomorrow. Support Hardy's venture and invest as much as possible. His actions are beneficial for us."
Tom left to prepare for the trip, while Mike expressed concerns about the broader implications. The old godfather reassured him, "Hardy's moves are calculated. If Basini and the others fail to respond effectively, they will face significant consequences. Hardy's rise might lead to advantageous developments for us."
As flights from around the world landed in Las Vegas, the Mafia patriarchs arrived, including representatives from the Lucchese, Borello, Bruno, Marcelo, and Cuneo families. Notably absent were Basini's allies and those closely tied to him, signaling their reluctance or opposition.
Hardy was pleased with the turnout. The presence of over half the major families showed a strong shift in allegiances. He instructed Bill to organize a gathering at the Hardy Hotel, where the visiting patriarchs could witness firsthand the profitability of his investments.
Bill, tallying the attendees, noted the significant presence of influential families, emphasizing the impact Hardy's casino could have on the Mafia's power dynamics.
"This is a game-changer," Hardy mused. "With these families on board, we're set to reshape the landscape."
The visit promised to solidify Hardy's position and further destabilize Basini's influence, showcasing the power of profitable ventures in the Mafia world.
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