Chapter 33: Rivals in the Shadows — The First Threat to Sovereign

The Sovereign Empire's rise had shaken the foundations of the luxury world. Overnight, Zhao Feng had established dominance, and his name echoed from the skyscrapers of New York to the palaces of Dubai.

But power never went unchallenged.

In the shadows, the remnants of the old elite stirred. Rivals, once untouchable, now found themselves overshadowed by the unstoppable force of Sovereign. And when the mighty are cornered, they fight back.

In a secluded private lounge in Monaco, five influential figures gathered around a polished ebony table. The dim glow of crystal chandeliers illuminated their tense expressions.

Laurent Duval — CEO of Duval Luxury Holdings, the once-undisputed king of haute couture.

Elena Volkov — Russian oligarch and the owner of Frostspire Resorts.

Kenji Hayashi — Japanese tech mogul with vast investments in digital entertainment.

Malcolm Royce — The financial titan behind Royce Capital, holding stakes in global luxury brands.

Giovanni Russo — Italian media baron, known for controlling the narratives of the elite.

Their common enemy? Zhao Feng.

"He's dismantled decades of control in months," Laurent growled, his knuckles whitening. "Maison Bellefleur was ours to crush, yet now it's Sovereign's crown jewel."

Elena's voice was low, dangerous. "And Frostspire's reservations have plummeted. Every billionaire wants the Sovereign experience."

Kenji, usually stoic, adjusted his glasses. "Even the entertainment sector bends to him. Stellar Studios has monopolized global box office success."

Malcolm's voice rumbled, a snake-like calm. "Zhao Feng moves without fear. He believes himself untouchable."

Giovanni leaned forward, a cruel smile tugging at his lips. "Then we remind him that no empire is invincible."

The first blow came without warning.

A malicious media campaign, led by Giovanni Russo's vast network of tabloids, erupted overnight. Accusations of unethical acquisitions, rigged deals, and fabricated rumors spread like wildfire.

"Sovereign's Rise: Built on Corruption?"

"Zhao Feng — A Puppet Master in the Luxury World?"

Mainstream media latched onto the narrative, stirring public suspicion. Even high-profile celebrities cautiously distanced themselves from Sovereign.

But Zhao Feng remained calm.

In his private suite atop the Sovereign Tower in Hong Kong, he lounged on a leather sofa, gazing out at the glittering skyline. Xiao Ling stood by his side, her expression sharp as she read through the latest reports.

"They're desperate," Zhao Feng said, a faint smile curving his lips. "The Council of Five believes they can manipulate public perception. But Sovereign isn't built on illusions. It's built on results."

The Countermove

"Release the footage."

At Zhao Feng's command, Sovereign's media division unveiled an exclusive documentary — a behind-the-scenes look at the creation of Eternal Zenith. Viewers witnessed Zhao Feng's tireless dedication, the craftsmen's meticulous work, and the undeniable brilliance of the Eclipse Collection.

Simultaneously, major celebrities and influential designers voiced their unwavering support for Sovereign. Every accusation crumbled beneath the weight of truth.

Ding!

[Media Crisis Neutralized.]

[Global Reputation +1,000]

[Simp Coins +500 Million]

But the Council of Five would not stop. Zhao Feng knew this was merely the opening move.

Days later, a black envelope arrived at the Sovereign Tower — no markings, no return address. Xiao Ling's expression darkened as she opened it. Inside was a single sheet of ivory parchment.

"Even a king must kneel when the shadows rise."

Zhao Feng's smile remained unshaken. "They think fear will rattle me."

He folded the letter and placed it aside. "But I don't fear the shadows. I own them."

The battle had begun. And Zhao Feng was ready.