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Mart was a mentalist famous for his incredible magic tricks and mind reading. His shows filled theaters and auditoriums, and his charisma and talent had earned him the respect and admiration of his colleagues and the public.
But Mart had a secret. He was not just an illusionist, but he possessed a real ability to manipulate people's minds. He could implant memories, suggestions, emotions, and even orders into other people's brains. It was a gift that he had discovered as a child, and that he had perfected with time and practice.
Mart used his power with discretion and moderation. He only used it in his actions, and never to harm or benefit illicitly. He was an ethical and responsible man, who knew the danger his abilities posed if he fell into the wrong hands.
But one day, everything changed. Mart received an anonymous letter, which said the following:
"Dear Mart,
I know what you are and what you can do. I know that you have a power that no one else has, and that you hide it behind a façade of magic. Don't worry, I won't reveal your secret to the world. But I want you to do something for me.
I want you to help me rob the biggest bank in the city. You have the ability to enter and leave without anyone noticing, and to erase any traces or evidence. It's the perfect crime, and only you can do it.
If you accept, I will give you half of the loot. If you refuse, I will make your life hell. I have ways of making you suffer, and of making everyone hate you and fear you. Don't underestimate my power, nor my determination.
You have 24 hours to decide. If you agree, go to central park tomorrow at 10 in the morning, and look for a red bench. I'll be waiting for you there. If you don't agree, prepare for the consequences.
Do not try to escape, notify the police, or ignore this letter. I'm watching you, and I know everything you do. This is your only chance. Choose well.
Sincerely,
A friend."
Mart read the letter with disbelief and horror. Who was this stranger who was blackmailing him? How did she know his secret? What did you want from him? What could he do?
Mart felt trapped and scared. He didn't want to rob the bank, or participate in any crime. He was an honest and peaceful man, who only wanted to entertain and amuse people with his art. But he also did not want to suffer the blackmailer's threats, nor put his reputation and career at risk.
Mart was faced with a difficult decision. Should he accept the blackmail, or resist? What consequences would each option have? Was there any way to escape from that situation?
Mart thought and thought, but he didn't find any solution. He just knew that time was running out, and that he had to act soon.
What would you do in his place?
Points from a mentalist
You have confidence in your judgment and your intuitions.
Look for physical clues in others, such as pupil dilation, breathing rate, or direction of gaze.
He uses himself as a guinea pig to study his own facial and body expression.
It opposes physiological reductionism and considers mental processes to be tangible and not just byproducts of brain processes.
Use the introspective method to access your own and other people's consciousness.
Master suggestion, persuasion and hypnosis techniques to influence others.
