Chapter 9: The Challenge from Luo Shao

The applause from Zhao Feng's breathtaking dance still echoed through the ballroom, but the tension in the air remained thick. As the final note of the waltz faded, Zhao Feng offered Su Ling a small bow. She returned it with a graceful nod, her crimson dress cascading around her like fire.

But just as Zhao Feng prepared to step aside, a cold voice rang through the hall.

"Zhao Feng!"

The chatter died instantly. All eyes turned toward the source — Luo Shao , his face twisted with barely concealed fury. He strode forward, his expensive suit doing little to mask the bitterness in his gaze. Beside him, Bai Xinyue clutched her champagne glass, her expression unreadable.

Zhao Feng's smirk didn't waver. "Luo Shao. Enjoying the gala?"

"Don't act smug," Luo Shao spat. "You think a flashy car and a tailored suit make you someone important? You're still just the same pathetic loser from before."

Ding!

[System Mission Activated: Defeat Luo Shao in a Public Showdown.]

[Mission Type: Social Domination]

[Reward: 10 Million Simp Coins, Prestige +200, Influence +150]

Zhao Feng raised an eyebrow. "A public showdown? How convenient."

But he remained composed. He knew Luo Shao wasn't simply angry — he was humiliated. The once-undisputed young master of Qinghe University had been upstaged in every possible way. Now, Luo Shao needed to save face.

"Let me guess," Zhao Feng said calmly. "You're here to challenge me. Something to prove your so-called superiority?"

Luo Shao sneered. "That's right. If you think you're really better than me, then face me in a wager. Right here. In front of everyone."

Gasps filled the ballroom. A public challenge at the prestigious gala? The scandal would be the talk of the campus for weeks.

Su Ling narrowed her eyes. "Luo Shao, this is childish."

"Stay out of this, Su Ling," Luo Shao snapped. "This is between me and him."

Zhao Feng chuckled softly. "And what exactly are you wagering, Luo Shao? Another pointless show of wealth?"

The crowd murmured in anticipation. Luo Shao's lips curled into a twisted grin. "A battle of status and influence. You claim to be a 'new man' — prove it. Let's see who has the most connections and influence tonight. If you win, I'll publicly acknowledge you as my superior."

Zhao Feng tilted his head. "And if I lose?"

"You'll kneel and apologize in front of the entire university." Luo Shao's eyes gleamed with satisfaction. "You'll admit you're nothing but a pathetic simp who got lucky."

Ding!

[Mission Updated: Accept or Decline the Challenge.]

Zhao Feng didn't hesitate.

"I accept."

The room erupted in whispers. Bai Xinyue's eyes widened, uncertainty flashing across her face. Su Ling, however, remained calm, a trace of curiosity in her expression.

Luo Shao's grin widened. "Then let the games begin."

Ding!

[Challenge Accepted: Prove Your Dominance Within the Next Hour.]

[Track Influence Gains and Showcase Social Power.]

Zhao Feng's confidence never faltered. He turned to Su Ling, offering a slight smile. "Shall we continue enjoying the night?"

"By all means," she replied, her voice dripping with amusement.

Luo Shao thought he could win this game. But Zhao Feng knew better. With the system on his side, victory was inevitable.

"Let the real challenge begin."