As Li Zhen's empire fortified its foundation domestically, he turned his gaze to his next ambition: global financial dominance. He knew that his moves would need to be strategic and executed flawlessly; the slightest misstep could expose his plans and unravel the empire he had painstakingly built.
With the system's Financial Phantom skill and Influence Manipulation, he was now equipped to move unseen in the highest echelons of global finance.
The night was quiet in Li Zhen's penthouse office. He leaned back in his chair, gazing at the city lights below. It was the calm before the storm—a moment of quiet reflection before he'd set his new plan into action.
[New Task: Break the First International Target]
[Target: Northwest Global Bank, renowned European investment bank with deep ties in world finance]
[Reward: Elite Financial Mastery, a skill allowing complex market manipulations that turn the odds overwhelmingly in the host's favor]
Li Zhen's eyes narrowed. Northwest Global Bank was known for its influence in both European and Asian markets. It was also connected to several global elites, including some who were part of the Covenant of Crowns. Taking it down would be both a powerful statement and a strategic acquisition.
He smirked. This was the system's way of escalating his challenge, pushing him to test his skills against the very best.
The next morning, Li Zhen assembled his most loyal subordinates. Zhao Feng, Chen Yi, and Liang Xue gathered, each aware of the gravity of the task ahead.
"Northwest Global Bank has deep roots," Li Zhen began, "but like any institution, it has its weaknesses. Zhao Feng, I want you to handle intelligence. Find every vulnerable connection within the bank—disgruntled employees, hidden debts, legal complications. Nothing is off-limits."
Zhao Feng nodded, a glint of excitement in his eyes. "I'll gather everything we need. If they have any weak points, I'll expose them."
"Liang Xue," Li Zhen continued, "you'll take charge of public relations. Spread rumors, stir up whispers of instability, and begin eroding their clients' trust subtly. By the time they realize it, their reputation should be on shaky ground."
"Understood," Liang Xue said, already formulating a plan.
"Chen Yi, prepare the resources we'll need to acquire their shares at strategic points. We'll start with a few minor stakes through shell companies, but once the time is right, we'll go all in."
With his orders given, Li Zhen leaned back, a dark satisfaction in his gaze. "We're about to change the game. Make sure you're ready."
Two Weeks Later
The operation began to bear fruit. Zhao Feng's intelligence had uncovered several internal disputes within Northwest Global Bank's upper management. One of their senior executives was under investigation for fraudulent dealings—a scandal that Liang Xue wasted no time in publicizing through anonymous sources.
As whispers of internal instability spread, the bank's stock began to dip. Investors were spooked, and the board was forced to reassure the public that everything was under control. But behind the scenes, they were scrambling to find the source of their troubles.
Li Zhen watched with satisfaction as his team executed flawlessly. Every move, every rumor, every strategic share acquisition—it all worked together to destabilize Northwest Global Bank without drawing attention to himself.
One night, as Li Zhen prepared for the final push, he received a private message on his encrypted system.
[System Update: Surveillance Alert – High-Interest Individuals Monitoring]
[Warning: Several Covenant of Crowns members have become suspicious of the recent moves targeting Northwest Global Bank]
Li Zhen's expression hardened. He had expected some interest, but this was sooner than anticipated. The Covenant was clearly watching closely, wary of any member who might be overstepping.
Yet, he couldn't stop now. If he succeeded in this acquisition, he'd send a powerful message to the Covenant—and he'd have the resources to shield himself from their scrutiny.
The following week was intense. Zhao Feng intensified the pressure by leaking internal documents that revealed deeper issues at the bank. Liang Xue's carefully planted stories hit the media, triggering a drop in public confidence that caused a further slide in stock value.
At the precise moment of vulnerability, Chen Yi deployed the funds to acquire a controlling share of the bank. Within hours, Li Zhen had secured a majority interest in Northwest Global Bank without anyone suspecting his true identity.
[Task Complete: Break the First International Target]
[Reward: Elite Financial Mastery]
Li Zhen felt the surge of power from his new skill. Elite Financial Mastery would enable him to read market trends at an almost superhuman level, making it possible to predict and manipulate fluctuations to his advantage.
Back in Europe, the sudden power shift at Northwest Global Bank did not go unnoticed. Heinrich Gruber, the Covenant of Crowns member who had initially tested Li Zhen, stared at the news in quiet amazement. The mystery investor had moved quickly, decisively, and completely under the radar.
"Mr. Li is making his mark," Gruber murmured to himself. "We'll see if he can continue to avoid the Covenant's watchful eye."
Meanwhile, in Li Zhen's Base of Operations
Li Zhen sat with Phantom, his artificial intelligence system, analyzing data from the recent acquisition. With Northwest Global Bank under his control, he could now manipulate assets and financial flows throughout Europe and Asia.
"This is only the beginning," he said quietly. "With each step, I'll push further, until there's no one left to challenge me."
Phantom responded with its usual efficiency. "The Covenant's interest will only intensify. They will likely test you soon."
Li Zhen smiled darkly. "Let them try. I've spent my life preparing for this. Every skill, every contact, every asset—everything I've built will lead me to the top."