The moment Leo stepped out of the Morgan Real Estate headquarters, he could feel the entire city's atmosphere shift. News of the Morgan family's collapse and his sudden takeover had already spread like wildfire through the financial district. Reporters swarmed the sidewalk, cameras flashing and microphones held out, desperate to catch a single word from the young, mysterious billionaire.
Kane moved smoothly beside Leo, forming a protective barrier. "Mr. Carter, the limousine is ready. I have arranged a brief statement for the press if you wish to address them."
Leo smiled faintly, his eyes calm and sharp. "No need. Let them wonder. Curiosity is far more valuable than any quote I could give."
He slid into the back of the sleek black vehicle, and the car pulled away smoothly, leaving the chaos of reporters and the crumbling Morgan legacy behind.
Inside the car, Leo closed his eyes, and the system's mechanical voice echoed in his mind.
[Ding!][Host has successfully completed the hostile takeover of Morgan Real Estate.][Current company valuation: $860 million.][Quest progress: 100% completed.][Rewards unlocked: Advanced Business Acumen, $200 million cash bonus, and full corporate authority.][New main quest: City Center Redevelopment Project.Objective: Win the government bid and build the most iconic landmark in the city.Difficulty: Medium-High.Rewards: $500 million investment fund, Global Investor Reputation, System Level Upgrade.]
Leo's lips curved into a satisfied smile.The era of the Morgan family was over.The era of Leo Carter had only just begun.
"Kane," Leo said, opening his eyes. "Tell me about the competition for the city center project."
Kane immediately pulled out a tablet and began presenting data with professional efficiency. "The primary competitor is Blackstone Group, a multinational investment firm. They have strong political connections and have already submitted an early bid. Their plan focuses solely on profit, with no regard for public welfare or community development."
Leo nodded. "Then we beat them with a better vision. This project isn't just about buildings. It's about changing the city. Prepare a proposal that includes affordable housing, public green spaces, job creation programs, and long-term sustainable development. Make it impossible for the city to refuse."
Kane bowed slightly. "Understood, sir. The legal and design teams are already on standby. I will have the complete proposal ready within 48 hours."
As the car headed toward Leo's newly acquired penthouse, his phone buzzed. An unknown number flashed on the screen. He answered calmly.
"Leo Carter," a deep, arrogant voice snarled. "This is Mr. Black, CEO of Blackstone. You think you can waltz in here and steal what belongs to me? The redevelopment project is mine. Stay out of this, or you will regret it."
Leo chuckled coldly. "Threats are a poor substitute for competence, Mr. Black. If your plan is as strong as you claim, you have nothing to fear. But I suggest you prepare for defeat. The days of greedy corporations exploiting this city are over."
He ended the call without waiting for a reply.
[Ding!][Host has rejected intimidation from a powerful competitor.][Courage and Leadership stats increased.][Unlocked passive ability: Unbreakable Will.Host will not be influenced by threats or pressure.]
When the car arrived at the luxurious penthouse, Leo stepped out into a space that overlooked the entire city. Floor-to-ceiling windows displayed a breathtaking panoramic view, a constant reminder of how far he had come. Just weeks earlier, he had been living in a tiny, run-down apartment, struggling to afford daily expenses. Now he owned a sky palace and a multi-billion-dollar corporation.
None of it felt real — yet everything was undeniable.
That evening, Leo decided to return to his old neighborhood, not out of necessity, but to remind himself of his roots. He walked through the familiar streets, past the small shops and worn buildings where he had spent most of his life. The area was quiet, a stark contrast to the glitz and glamour of the financial district.
As he turned a corner, he heard a familiar, desperate voice.
"Please! I'm begging you! Give me more time!"
Leo's expression darkened.He knew that voice all too well.
Mia was on her knees in front of Derek Morgan, tears streaming down her face. Derek looked pale and defeated, his expensive clothes now wrinkled and dirty. Without his family's wealth and power, he was nothing — a broken, empty shell of the arrogant bully he had once been.
"I have nothing left!" Derek shouted, frustration and fear lacing his voice. "My father is ruined! The company is gone! We're bankrupt! You left Leo for me, and now look at us! We have nothing!"
Mia sobbed, her body shaking. "I just… I just wanted a better life. I thought you could give that to me."
Leo watched coldly from a short distance away, no trace of pity or sympathy in his eyes. This was the consequence of their greed and cruelty. They had chosen money over character, arrogance over kindness. Now they were reaping what they had sown.
He did not approach them.He did not speak to them.He simply turned and walked away.
They were no longer part of his world.They were nothing more than a faded memory.
[Ding!][Host has completely let go of past negative emotions.][Mental state upgraded: Absolute Calm.][All future decisions will be based on logic and ambition, not sentiment.]
When Leo returned to his penthouse, Kane was waiting with a new folder.
"Sir, the preliminary design for the city center project has been completed," Kane said. "The architects have called it 'Carter Tower.' It will be the tallest, most advanced building in the entire region."
Leo opened the folder and looked at the blueprint. A towering, modern skyscraper stood at the heart of a vast, vibrant complex. It was perfect — a symbol of his power, his vision, and his new legacy.
"Begin construction immediately after we win the bid," Leo said. "I want this city to remember the name Carter forever."
Kane bowed. "It will be done as you command."
Leo closed the folder and looked out the window at the sleeping city.Soon, the skyline would be forever changed.Soon, everyone would know his name.
Blackstone Group.Corrupt politicians.Old money dynasties.
They all thought they could stop him.They were all wrong.
Leo Carter was just getting started.And nothing — and no one — would stand in his way.
[Ding!][Host has finalized preparations for the city center project.][Quest readiness: 100%][The battle for the city's future is about to begin.]