Extraordinary Realm from Persuasion System

The steward stood silently to the side, head lowered, seemingly lost in thought.

There was no sorrow or despair on his face, but rather a hint of subtle anticipation.

It seemed as though he was waiting for something, waiting for a turning point, an opportunity.

At that moment, a voice suddenly echoed in his mind:

"Steward, you don’t seem to be surprised by all this, do you?"

The steward abruptly raised his head, only to find Zhang Beixing had somehow appeared before him.

A wry smile hung on his lips, and his eyes were full of inquiry.

"Mr. Zhang, what do you mean by this?"

The steward quickly resumed a respectful stance and asked softly.

"I just think you don’t seem to be grieving over Peter’s death."

Zhang Beixing spoke leisurely, his tone carrying an undeniable authority.

"On the contrary, I’ve seen in your eyes... you’re waiting for something? I’m very curious, what exactly are you plotting?"

Upon hearing this, the steward’s expression slightly changed, but he quickly regained his composure.

He respectfully bowed his head and said humbly:

"Mr. Zhang, you’re truly perceptive. Indeed, I was dissatisfied with Peter’s actions, but I’m merely a humble servant; how could I dare to have any schemes? I am just worried about the future of the Alba Clan."

"Oh? The future of the Alba Clan?"

Zhang Beixing raised his eyebrows, seemingly very interested in the steward’s words.

"Tell me, how do you foresee the future of the Alba Clan?"

The steward hesitated, as if pondering his words.

After a moment, he raised his head, with a look of determination.

"Mr. Zhang, I have served the Alba Clan for decades, and I know the rise and fall of this family like the back of my hand."

The steward spoke slowly, his tone carrying a sense of nostalgia.

"Peter’s actions have severely harmed the family’s reputation and interests. His death may not be a bad thing for the family. But the problem now is, the Alba Clan has no successors, and Mr. White is too old to hold the situation alone. I’m afraid this family will decline further. Unless..."

"Unless what?"

Zhang Beixing pressed, seemingly having guessed the steward’s intention.

The steward took a deep breath, as if making a firm decision.

"Unless there’s a strong leader who can lead the Alba Clan out of its predicament and restore the family’s glory."

The steward looked earnestly at Zhang Beixing, his eyes full of expectation.

"Mr. Zhang, you are one of the most powerful and influential people in the world today. If you’re willing to lend a hand, I believe the Alba Clan can rise again to become a dominant force. At that time, we will surely be grateful to you and serve you loyally."

Zhang Beixing heard the steward’s words, and a smile crept to his lips.

He hadn’t expected that this seemingly loyal steward also harbored such ambition and calculation.

It seems in this world, no one is truly simple.

Everyone has their own desires and aims.

"Interesting."

Zhang Beixing said slowly, his tone tinged with amusement.

"Your proposal is indeed tempting. If I could control the Alba Clan, it would undoubtedly be a huge boost to my career. However, why should I believe you and cooperate with you? After all, you have betrayed your master."

The steward’s face flashed with embarrassment upon hearing this.

But he quickly regained composure and replied respectfully:

"Mr. Zhang, I am not betraying my master, but considering the future of the Alba Clan."

"Peter’s actions have severely threatened the family’s interests. What I did was entirely for the continuation and development of the clan. Moreover, I’ve never truly received my master’s trust and important tasks, in their eyes, I was merely a replaceable servant. Why should I be loyal to them?"

"As for you, Mr. Zhang."

The steward looked at Zhang Beixing with a hint of cunning in his eyes.

"You are truly someone with strength and ambition. I believe that following you is the wisest choice for me. I can provide you with all the Alba Clan’s resources and intelligence to help you expand your influence. And in return, I hope you can give me a position when you take over the Alba Clan—a chance to change my destiny. I believe, with your wisdom and openness, you won’t refuse my request."

Zhang Beixing fell into thought upon hearing the steward’s words.

He felt that the steward’s analysis and proposal were indeed very reasonable.

Rather than letting the Alba Clan be ruined by an incompetent heir, it would be better if he comes forth to take control—this would allow for expanding influence and gaining a loyal assistant.

This seemed like a win-win choice.

However, Zhang Beixing didn’t plan on agreeing easily.

He needed the steward to understand that he was the leader, the benefactor.

"I will consider your proposal."

Zhang Beixing said lightly, his tone imbued with a sense of superiority.

"But I hope you understand, my taking over the Alba Clan is giving you all an opportunity, not you helping me. As for your position, that will depend on your performance. If you can prove your value and loyalty, I naturally won’t treat you badly. But if you dare to have ulterior motives or betray me, don’t blame me for being ruthless."

Upon hearing this, the steward quickly lowered his head.