Li Zhen sat back, sipping tea as Orion's analytics filled the screen with intricate data on the world's top corporations. He had built his foundation, connected with power players, and disrupted global markets—now, he needed to make his next, more ambitious move. The Covenant's investment in a tech conglomerate was his next target, a chance to test the strength of his strategy against theirs.
[System Notification: New Task – Corporate Conquest]
[Objective: Acquire significant stakes in top-tier corporations. Expand influence in technology and finance sectors.]
[Reward: Elite Connections – Access to influential industry networks and secret meetings.]
Li Zhen reviewed the analysis on ApexTech, a global leader in AI and robotics, and GenEx, a biotechnology innovator pushing boundaries in healthcare. Both were high-value corporations that had captured the Covenant's interest. Their technological prowess and future potential aligned perfectly with Li Zhen's plans for influence.
He tapped a few commands, bringing up Phantom's report on ApexTech's shareholders and connections to the Covenant. It would be risky to go after them directly, so instead, he'd focus on undermining their position while making himself a crucial stakeholder.
A Strategic Play
Phantom, seated at his own computer, sent encrypted signals to some of Li Zhen's newest contacts: hedge fund managers and investors. Together, they initiated a discreet campaign of buying and selling ApexTech's stock, creating fluctuations that unsettled other investors. In just a few days, market confidence in ApexTech began to waver.
Taking advantage of the unrest, Li Zhen secured an exclusive meeting with one of ApexTech's key board members, Mr. Larson—a shrewd but tired businessman looking for new alliances to balance his interests against the Covenant.
"Mr. Li, your reputation precedes you," Larson greeted him. "I've heard about your work in the currency markets. Quite impressive for someone so… new to the field."
Li Zhen smiled coolly. "I prefer to let my actions speak. I want ApexTech to continue its upward trajectory, but that can only happen if it's protected from influences that might lead it astray."
Larson gave a cautious nod, sensing the subtle jab at the Covenant's meddling. "I'll admit, some stability could benefit us."
"Then let me help you with that," Li Zhen replied, sealing his entry into ApexTech.
Securing Loyalty
Returning to his penthouse, Li Zhen met with Jiang Wei and Viper. The recent successes meant new threats would undoubtedly follow, so he was reinforcing his security protocols.
"Jiang Wei, I want double surveillance on everyone tied to the Covenant's operations in Asia. If they move, I want to know."
Jiang Wei saluted sharply. "Understood, Boss."
Viper stepped forward. "I've also identified potential candidates to expand our internal team. Handpicked, loyal, and highly skilled."
"Good. Bring them in. And make sure they know that loyalty here isn't optional."
Li Zhen intended for his core team to be unbreakable, a powerful force he could depend on when the stakes rose. And if someone did betray him, he wanted them to know there would be nowhere safe for them.
The Entry of an Unexpected Figure
In the midst of his careful moves, Li Zhen received a message from Madame Zhao. "I hear ApexTech is in good hands now," her voice purred over the encrypted line. "But the Covenant won't take this lightly. You've made them uncomfortable."
"That was the intention," Li Zhen responded smoothly.
"I can tell. But keep an eye on Heinrich Gruber. He has a notorious reputation for protecting his interests ruthlessly."
Li Zhen thanked her and ended the call, slightly intrigued by Gruber's potential retaliation. He knew it wouldn't be long before he faced direct competition, but that only served to fuel his ambition.
A High-Stakes Meeting in Shanghai
As his influence in ApexTech solidified, Li Zhen was invited to a secretive investor meeting in Shanghai, where some of the world's most powerful financial elites gathered. It was a chance to connect with those who held sway over industries, governments, and global policy. It was also where he might finally meet Heinrich Gruber.
With Phantom's help, Li Zhen attended the meeting under a low-profile alias. He moved through the crowd, exchanging pleasantries with some attendees while gathering intelligence.
Eventually, he spotted Gruber—a tall, stern-looking man with piercing blue eyes and a domineering presence. Gruber seemed unaware of Li Zhen, but Li Zhen observed him closely, noting his allies and mannerisms.
The two eventually crossed paths at a private bar within the venue.
"Mr. Gruber," Li Zhen said, extending a hand.
Gruber studied him carefully. "And you are?"
"A businessman with an interest in the future," Li Zhen replied with a calm smile.
Gruber's eyes narrowed, but he accepted the handshake. "Interesting. We'll see if the future has a place for you."
They exchanged a few more words, each man gauging the other's strength and potential. Li Zhen sensed that Gruber was testing him, measuring his resolve. It was clear that if Li Zhen wanted to compete with the Covenant's European branch, he would need to be even more formidable.
Returning Home
That night, as he flew back to his base, Li Zhen felt a renewed determination. He would continue his climb, forging alliances, eliminating obstacles, and carving his legacy in the shadows. With Orion, Phantom, and his team by his side, he knew that no obstacle was insurmountable.
The Covenant was just one of many powerful groups he would face on his path. But Li Zhen was ready to outsmart and outmaneuver each and every one of them, emerging not just as a wealthy man, but as the ultimate ruler behind the scenes.