The first rays of dawn crept over the horizon, casting a pale light on the unforgiving land. Lin Feng stood atop a small hill, looking out over the sparse landscape of South Africa in the year 1830. He had come to this new world with nothing but his wits, his knowledge from his past life, and the strange, powerful system that had chosen him for this second chance.
He had felt the pulse of the land yesterday—the energy beneath the soil, the potential in the air. Everything here, while harsh and untamed, could be molded to his will if he played his cards right. There was no going back. His future lay ahead, and it was time to make his mark.
As he stood there, a new notification popped up in his mind, the familiar system voice once again speaking to him.
"System Notification: New mission unlocked."
"Mission: Establish the first generation of your legacy. Secure a partner and conceive an heir. Ensure the talent of the heir is nurtured to Silver-level before the end of the year."
Lin Feng's eyes narrowed as he absorbed the information. Silver-level. A huge leap from Bronze. He understood the importance of this mission. It wasn't just about survival anymore—it was about dominance.
He had learned from his past life that time was a luxury that most could not afford, especially when it came to building an empire. The sooner he began shaping his future heirs, the quicker his power would grow.
"System Notification: Heir's talent evaluation will be based on both genetic compatibility and external factors. Be cautious in choosing a partner."
Lin Feng's lips curved into a smile. Genetic compatibility. The system's words were a clear hint that the women he chose to be his partners could affect the talent of his children. The idea was both fascinating and terrifying. He would have to be careful, patient, and methodical in his selections. But that was something he was well-prepared for. After all, manipulation and strategy had always been his forte.
Lin Feng began moving, setting his plan into motion. The small settlement where he had found himself was not a place of wealth or influence. It was a humble British-controlled outpost, but it held great significance for Lin Feng. This was his starting point. This was where he would build his influence.
The first step was to find a suitable partner. He had no need for love or affection. What he needed was someone who could bear children with strong talents, someone who would be obedient, loyal, and willing to serve his ambitions.
As he walked through the small town, his eyes scanned the people around him. He saw farmers, merchants, and soldiers, each with their own struggles, each with their own weaknesses. But Lin Feng wasn't interested in the weak. He needed a woman with potential, someone who could bear children with good genetics—and someone who would help him grow his power in ways he could not do alone.
He knew that the British officials had long sought to expand their influence in South Africa, bringing in settlers from Europe to reinforce their presence. But Lin Feng had no interest in the British Empire's politics. He had his own goals—goals that would require more than just political maneuvering. He needed a foundation, a legacy.
He stopped at a local tavern where a few soldiers from the British East India Company were gathered, drinking and talking in low voices. Lin Feng knew how to navigate this world. He knew that men like them could be useful.
Inside the tavern, Lin Feng made his move. His eyes locked onto a woman sitting near the corner—a young woman with striking features, her face illuminated by the flickering light of a nearby candle. She was listening intently to the conversation, her sharp gaze betraying a quick mind. Her posture was confident, but there was a vulnerable edge to her demeanor. This was the kind of person Lin Feng needed.
Her name was Isolde, and she was not native to South Africa. She was from a prominent family in Europe, but had fallen out of favor with her relatives due to her unconventional beliefs. She was, in many ways, an outcast—a woman on the fringes of society.
Lin Feng knew immediately that she was perfect for his purposes.
He approached her slowly, every step calculated. She looked up as he neared, her eyes meeting his with a mixture of curiosity and caution.
"Isolde," Lin Feng said, his voice smooth and calm. "I've heard of your intellect. You have a sharp mind, and I believe that's something the world can use."
She raised an eyebrow but didn't speak. Lin Feng continued, "The world around us is changing. South Africa is a place of opportunity, but also a place of great danger. With the right alliances, one can rise to power quickly. And I believe that we could help each other."
Isolde regarded him for a moment, considering his words carefully. "You speak as if you know the future," she replied coolly. "And yet, you're no more than a traveler in a strange land."
Lin Feng's lips curled into a smile. "Not a traveler. A conqueror."
The woman's eyes narrowed, but there was no immediate hostility in her gaze. Instead, she seemed intrigued. "And what is it you want from me?"
"I want your loyalty, and your intellect," Lin Feng said, his voice unwavering. "And in return, I will give you the means to become more than just another outcast. I will give you the power to shape the future, to make your name known across this world."
Isolde leaned back in her chair, her expression unreadable. "And how do you propose we do that?"
"By building an empire," Lin Feng said simply. "You and I will create something that will last for generations. And in time, the world will bow to us."
She looked at him for a long moment, her gaze steady. Finally, she spoke. "I'll consider your offer."
Lin Feng smiled again, the first true smile since his reincarnation. This was the first step.
The Family Legacy Begins
Lin Feng left the tavern that night with Isolde's agreement in hand. The first part of his plan had succeeded. He had found his first partner, and with her, he would begin his legacy.
Now, his next goal was to secure a strong heir—a child who would carry his bloodline forward and help him unlock the true potential of the System's rewards.
As he walked through the streets, the notifications from the system filled his mind.
"System Notification: Heir's development is critical. Monitor the partner's progress. Ensure a high-quality heir."
"Mission Update: Secure resources to support the future generation. Build a base of operations to ensure growth and stability."
Lin Feng's plans were unfolding quickly. He knew that the road ahead would be fraught with challenges, but he was prepared for whatever came his way. South Africa in 1830 was a land ripe for manipulation, and Lin Feng was ready to seize control.