Chapter Three: Rewards of Ambition

Zeon Asmore stood in his modest quarters, listening to the wind howl outside as the sun dipped behind the horizon. Weeks had passed since his arrival in this world, and he had made remarkable strides. His relationship with Isolde was progressing, though still in its early stages. He could sense her growing trust in him, and he knew it wouldn't be long before their partnership took a more personal turn. The time for conceiving his first heir was near.

But even as he worked tirelessly to lay the foundation for his legacy, there was something else on his mind—something far more personal. His connection with the system had been constant, and now it was time to reap the first of the rewards it had promised. The system had been quiet recently, but Zeon knew that patience would pay off.

He closed his eyes for a moment, focusing inward. Almost immediately, the familiar voice echoed in his mind.

"System Notification: New milestone achieved. Reward granted."

Zeon's heart skipped a beat. He had reached a new milestone, one that would grant him something he could use immediately. A surge of anticipation coursed through him as the system spoke again.

"Milestone Achieved: Establishing the foundation for your legacy."

"Reward: The 'Essence of Dominion' – A unique ability to control and influence the minds of those within your immediate sphere. Can be used to sway decisions, forge loyalty, and manipulate emotions."

A gift like this was beyond what Zeon had expected. Dominion. It wasn't just about brute force or magic—it was about influence. This would make his strategic maneuvers even more potent.

He felt a strange warmth wash over him as the essence filled his body, settling into the deepest parts of his mind. Opening his eyes, he tested the newfound ability. It was subtle at first, but he could already tell that his presence would now be more difficult to ignore.

With this new power, he could influence anyone who wasn't deeply resistant—anyone within his immediate sphere. The more he practiced, the more expansive his reach would become.

This was the first of many rewards the system had in store for him. The notifications hinted at more to come as he advanced on his journey.

The system's presence did not wane. Zeon's mind was soon filled with another notification, one that promised rewards for both small and large milestones.

"System Notification: New reward criteria unlocked. Small Milestones will grant rewards on the following scales: the acquisition of resources, the growth of influence, the birth of heirs with potential talent."

"Large Milestones will grant more significant rewards, including: improved physical enhancements, the ability to forge stronger alliances, access to rare technologies, and even ancient powers. The scale of the reward depends on the significance of the milestone achieved."

A slow, confident smile crossed Zeon's lips. He now had clear markers for his progression, allowing him to focus on both short-term and long-term goals. Each step forward would bring him closer to unparalleled power.

With his new ability, Zeon felt more confident than ever. The foundation for his grand plan had been laid. He took a deep breath and began mapping out his next move.

South Africa presented itself as the perfect place to start—untamed, vulnerable, and ripe for influence. He needed a network, something that could stretch across the continent, and eventually, the world. Zeon's thoughts shifted to the people he had already met—soldiers, traders, local leaders. They would soon become the building blocks of his growing power.

The British outpost would be a key starting point. The soldiers stationed there were complacent, unaware of the storm that was about to engulf them. Zeon's influence would spread subtly at first, but soon it would become inescapable.

The following day, he approached Isolde, knowing that the next phase of his plan had to begin with her. Smart, ambitious, and already loyal, she was crucial to his future. But she needed to be more than just an ally—she needed to be committed.

"I trust you've been thinking about our future," Zeon said as he sat across from her at a dimly lit table in the tavern.

Isolde's eyes met his, a mix of curiosity and wariness. "I have," she replied. "I've been thinking about what you said. A legacy, an empire."

Zeon leaned in, his voice soft but resolute. "I don't just want your loyalty, Isolde. I want your commitment to something greater. Together, we can build something that lasts."

A flicker of ambition lit up her eyes. She had already witnessed Zeon's rapid rise, felt the weight of his words. Ignoring him wasn't an option.

"I'm listening," she said, her voice steady.

Zeon's lips curled into a slow smile. "Good. Together, we will create an empire that will shake the foundations of the world."

As he subtly channeled the Essence of Dominion, influencing Isolde's emotions, he knew this was just the beginning. The next milestone—ensuring the birth of his first heir—was within reach. The system's rewards would only continue as he pursued his path to greatness.