Chapter 10: The Game of Influence
The tension in the ballroom crackled like electricity. Every pair of eyes flicked between Zhao Feng and Luo Shao, eagerly awaiting the showdown. Luo Shao's smug grin hadn't faltered — he was confident, believing that his status as one of Qinghe University's wealthiest heirs would carry him to victory.
But Zhao Feng? He wasn't worried in the slightest.
Ding!
[Challenge Commenced: The Game of Influence.]
[Objective: Gain More Influence Than Luo Shao Within One Hour.]
[Current Influence: 370]
[Opponent's Influence: 580]
A time limit. A clear goal. And an entire room of influential figures.
Zhao Feng adjusted his diamond-studded cufflinks, his sharp eyes scanning the crowd. If it was a game of influence Luo Shao wanted, then Zhao Feng would play. And he'd play to win.
"Shall we mingle?" Zhao Feng asked, his voice calm.
Su Ling's crimson lips curved into a knowing smile. "Lead the way."
The two strolled through the ballroom, heads turning as they passed. The elegance of Su Ling in her crimson dress, combined with Zhao Feng's undeniable presence, left many in awe. It wasn't just wealth that drew attention — it was power.
"Zhao Feng! I didn't expect to see you here!"
A booming voice interrupted the murmurs. Chairman Wang, a well-respected businessman and university benefactor, approached with a wide grin.
"Chairman Wang," Zhao Feng greeted, shaking his hand firmly. "It's an honor."
"The honor is mine!" Wang laughed. "I heard you embarrassed Luo Shao recently. About time someone knocked that brat down a peg!"
Luo Shao, who stood across the room with a glass of champagne, scowled.
Ding!
[Influence +40: Positive Reception from a Key Figure.]
"Tell me," Wang continued, "what's your next move, Zhao Feng? I hear you're making waves."
Zhao Feng's smile never wavered. "Opportunities tend to follow those who are prepared. I plan to seize them."
Wang roared with laughter. "Well said! I'll be keeping an eye on you."
Across the hall, Luo Shao was struggling. His attempts to charm influential guests fell flat, the echoes of his humiliation still fresh in their minds. Every glance toward Zhao Feng's growing influence only darkened his expression.
"Mr. Li," Luo Shao said, forcing a grin as he approached a stern-faced investor. "It's been a while. I'm considering opening a new club in the city. Perhaps we could—"
Mr. Li held up a hand. "A club? Luo Shao, you're still playing those childish games? Unlike Zhao Feng, who's clearly matured."
Luo Shao's face twisted in frustration.
Ding!
[Opponent's Influence -20: Failed Social Engagement.]
With only fifteen minutes remaining, Zhao Feng decided to seal the victory. The crowd had already shifted in his favor, but one final move would end the game.
"Zhao Feng!" A melodic voice called out.
Turning, Zhao Feng was met with the sight of Lin Xiaoyu, the campus beauty. Her sapphire-blue gown sparkled under the lights, and the admiration in her eyes was unmistakable.
"Xiaoyu," Zhao Feng greeted smoothly. "Enjoying the evening?"
"I am now," she teased, a playful glint in her eyes. "Everyone's been talking about you. I must say, I'm impressed."
Luo Shao's expression darkened further. Even Lin Xiaoyu, one of the most sought-after women on campus, was drawn to Zhao Feng.
Ding!
[Influence +70: Gained Recognition from a Campus Celebrity.]
The system buzzed one final time.
[Challenge Complete: Victory Achieved.]
[Reward: 10 Million Simp Coins, Prestige +200, Influence +150.]
Luo Shao's hands trembled. Defeated. Humiliated. The murmurs around him were no longer whispers of awe but mocking amusement.
"You lose, Luo Shao," Zhao Feng said coolly, his voice loud enough for the room to hear. "And as per our agreement, I believe you have something to say."
Luo Shao's face twisted in fury, but the weight of the crowd's expectation left him no choice. Through gritted teeth, he spat the words.
"I… acknowledge Zhao Feng as my superior."
The room erupted in applause.
But Zhao Feng wasn't celebrating. He had already moved on. This victory was just the beginning.
"Next."