Darren stared at the event planner on his phone.
[Mission: Host community event — budget limit £2,000]
[Goal: Boost local loyalty and secure assets]
He calculated carefully. Spending too little wouldn't make an impact, but spending too much risked unnecessary exposure.
He booked a small park pavilion and invited local business owners, neighbors, and some loyal customers.
Flyers went up overnight, and word spread fast.
The day of the event, Darren arrived early, setting up tables with snacks and drinks bought with system rebates.
The convenience store donated supplies; Mrs. Keller brought laundry coupons.
Conversations flowed easily. Smiles replaced suspicion.
Darren gave a short speech:
"Together, we're stronger. This community is our home, and we protect each other."
The system chimed:
[Expenditure Multiplier Activated: 210x]
[Bonus Credit: +£420,000]
Throughout the afternoon, Darren made new allies and noticed fewer suspicious glances.
His investments felt safer.
Back home, his mother cooked a celebratory meal.
Aria hugged him tightly.
"This feels like a new beginning," she whispered.
But deep inside, Darren remained alert. Rival forces wouldn't retreat so easily.