Li Zhen returned from Europe with renewed purpose. The Covenant of Crowns had opened doors he never imagined possible, but he knew his foothold in the global elite was only as secure as his ability to outmaneuver those around him. His next moves would require precision, timing, and the ability to keep his true motives hidden.
[New Task: Consolidate Domestic Influence to Secure Global Entry Points]
[Reward: New Power Skill: Influence Manipulation]
The system's task was clear. While the Covenant gave him international access, he would need to stabilize and fortify his domestic empire to secure his newfound global influence. Any weaknesses at home would quickly be exposed by those in the Covenant seeking to test his resilience.
In his private office, Li Zhen held a meeting with Zhao Feng, Chen Yi, and Liang Xue. The trio, each fiercely loyal and skilled, had become the backbone of his operations. Together, they had the skills, network, and strategic thinking he needed to expand his control across Asia.
"We've made a mark in Europe, but we're not yet strong enough to hold it," Li Zhen began. "To solidify our power, we need to lock down our influence here at home. From the banking sector to tech industries, I want full control over each key domain."
Zhao Feng leaned forward, understanding his vision immediately. "I've already got a list of targets in the financial sector. Several influential CEOs have connections with foreign investors. They could be turned to our side or quietly removed if necessary."
Li Zhen nodded, satisfied. "Good. Make sure any replacements are fully loyal. We can't afford any loose ends."
Liang Xue added, "I've secured several political contacts. They'll help us gain favorable contracts and concessions, especially as we expand into foreign markets. They'll keep the government looking the other way."
Chen Yi, ever efficient, took his orders without question. "I'll handle the tech sector acquisitions. Once we have control of information, we can monitor every major player's moves."
Li Zhen smiled, feeling the momentum. "Perfect. Begin preparations. Once our domestic empire is secured, we'll be able to outmaneuver anyone who tries to oppose us."
As his team set his plans into motion, Li Zhen felt the system reward activate within him.
[Skill Unlocked: Influence Manipulation]
[Description: Allows the host to subtly sway people's decisions and gain influence over their thoughts and beliefs.]
This new skill was powerful, and he knew exactly how to use it. With Influence Manipulation, he would be able to make key individuals, from businessmen to government officials, bend to his will without them realizing it.
In the following weeks, Li Zhen's empire grew exponentially. His domestic influence became undeniable, and competitors either submitted or were quietly eliminated. By acquiring several high-profile tech companies, he gained access to powerful data analytics, which Phantom used to monitor the movements and decisions of his rivals in real time.
Each night, he would sit alone, reviewing the system's analysis and strategizing his next moves. With the system's resources and his own formidable mind, he was finally positioning himself as the unspoken ruler of his domain.
But it wasn't long before his actions caught the attention of others. One evening, he received an encrypted message from an unknown source. The message contained only a few words: "You're making waves, Mr. Li. Watch your back."
Li Zhen's expression didn't change. He knew the Covenant of Crowns would eventually test him. They wanted to see if he could hold his ground or if he'd become another fallen member.
He smiled coldly. If they wanted a challenge, he would show them his full power.
Back in Zurich
Heinrich Gruber sat in his office, reading reports of Li Zhen's rapid expansion. A small smile played on his lips. He was pleased, but cautious. The Covenant didn't take lightly to members who grew too ambitious too quickly.
"Send a message to our contacts in Asia," Gruber said to his assistant. "Let them know that if Mr. Li Zhen oversteps, we will be ready to respond."
Meanwhile, Li Zhen's influence continued to ripple outwards. He turned his attention to shorting foreign currencies and stocks, setting up deals that would destabilize rival corporations and enrich his own holdings.
Phantom's analysis was perfect, guiding his investments to maximize profit at every turn. Soon, news began circulating that an "unknown player" was disrupting the market, making others wary. But no one could trace these moves back to Li Zhen, as every action was layered in secrecy.
[Task Complete: Consolidate Domestic Influence]
[Reward: New Power Skill: Financial Phantom]
[Description: Allows the host to make highly complex financial moves that are invisible to tracking systems, ensuring anonymity and perfect execution.]
This reward was invaluable. With the Financial Phantom skill, Li Zhen could act without fear of being detected, even as his moves disrupted markets and created massive shifts in financial power.
New York
In a high-rise boardroom, a group of powerful bankers and CEOs discussed a growing concern: a mysterious figure was shorting currencies and gaining power in Asia and Europe.
A man in his fifties, a prominent hedge fund manager, clenched his jaw. "If this continues, he'll have a hand in everything from tech to finance. We need to find out who's behind it."
But Li Zhen's influence manipulation and Financial Phantom skill ensured they would have no leads. As the world's elites scrambled to understand the invisible threat rising among them, Li Zhen continued to make moves that positioned him closer to global domination.