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Chapter 7 - Rivals Appear — The Challenge of a Lifetime

The city lights of Yuncheng sparkled like a sea of diamonds as Li Zhen sped through the streets in his McLaren, his mind racing faster than the engine beneath him.

Success came quickly — too quickly, some would say. But in the shadows, rival forces were beginning to take notice.

Two blocks away, in a sleek glass office overlooking the city, a man sat behind a massive desk. His sharp eyes stared at the latest news reports.

"Li Zhen," he said slowly, "a nobody turned overnight billionaire and CEO. This kind of meteoric rise threatens everything we've built."

The man was Fang Wei, CEO of WeiCorp, one of the largest conglomerates in Yuncheng. Known for his ruthlessness and connections, Fang had crushed startups before they even saw daylight.

His phone beeped.

A message popped up from his second-in-command:

"Li Zhen has activated a new system and is gaining influence. Planning to launch a nationwide campaign."

Fang narrowed his eyes. "Then it's time to remind him who owns this city."

Meanwhile, at the university, rumors flew like wildfire.

"Have you seen the new guy from the business school? Chen Hao?"

"Yeah, son of Fang Wei. He just transferred here."

"He's been eyeing Li Zhen since the penthouse purchase."

Li Zhen didn't waste time. When Su Qian informed him about Chen Hao's arrival, he smiled.

System Notification:

"New rival detected. Engage with caution. Suggest using 'Wild Strategy' to maintain dominance."

Li Zhen tapped his phone. "Bring it on."

The next day, Li Zhen found himself in the university cafeteria — now a place of endless attention — when Chen Hao walked in, flanked by two bodyguards.

The room fell silent.

Chen Hao's cold gaze locked onto Li Zhen.

"Li Zhen," he said smoothly, "I hear you've been living wild. Careful you don't get burned."

Li Zhen smirked. "Better to live wild than not at all."

A tense silence settled before Li Zhen raised his voice, "If you want to challenge me, come at me. But don't expect me to play by anyone's rules."

Chen Hao's eyes flashed. "We'll see."

That night, Li Zhen reviewed his system stats.

System Alert:

"Rival presence increases risk and reward.

New option: 'Wild Duel' mode unlocked.

Outcome will impact social influence and cashback multiplier."**

Li Zhen grinned.

"This just got interesting."

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