Chapter 353 - Announcement

Gulped.

The three brothers at the side watched every twitched of the old man's brow and they swallowed in his every sigh. They were waiting for his 'verdict.'

But the old man ignored their presence and continued to think of his granddaughter.

It was because his granddaughter, who was currently out of sight, managed to convince him and to trust her. Old Xiong knew that none of the three brothers bore sincere intentions towards the first branch.

Naturally, he did not trust any of them. He did not truly trust others to begin with. It was only until recently after personally cultivating and witnessing his granddaughter's ability and growth that he could trust others, and that was his only granddaughter.

Speaking of his granddaughter, where was she? He has something important to announce and for sure, Zhi'er would not let this chance pass by without witnessing it.

Old Xiong did not notice the nervous three pair of eyes who was still waiting for the continuation of the conversation about 'transferring some shares' when he turned to Zhou Min and asked a different matter.

"Where's Zhi'er? I can't see her here. Who is the guest she's entertaining?"

Zhou Min glanced at the three who were ignored.

'Useless distractions. '

He really wished these three idiots could entertain his master and take more of his time. But alas, the three men were useless as they don't even weight a bit compared to the young miss' hair.

Zhou Min sweated. It would be strange if he said that the young miss was still entertaining the guest when the Master was here. Good thing, he already sent a message to his son. So he needed to make more excuses to buy them some time.

"Ah, that is. She likely went to take a short break. Young Miss has been busy since earlier."

"..."

After a while, Old Xiong nodded. In this case, then his granddaughter might end up missing the grand scene. She has been pestering him so far for the development of this situation, yet when it was finally here, she went missing.

Sigh, he really could not understand his granddaughter's mind.

They went on according to plan. Old Xiong went to the platform and called for everyone's attention.

"Alright, everyone. I am happy to have you all here in the Xiong's Anniversary. I thank you all," Old Xiong started his speech. He began to narrate about the struggles of the empire, their roots, and what they have reached now. It was almost like a tradition every anniversary.

Until finally, when everyone clapped after a long pause in his speech, thinking that it was done, Old Xiong still remained standing. He opened his mouth when the clap finally subsided.

"Tonight, is a huge turning point for the Xiong family. I have something important to announce to all of you."

The camera at the side covering the event focused on the old man on the stage. All of the guests quietly waited. 

The guests have various thoughts preoccupying their minds, wondering what kind of announcement it would be. Which company would ride on the Xiong Empire's cattails after tonight? Did someone get to set an arranged marriage with the Xiong family? Would the Xiong family expand all the way to the north?

However, the next words were out of their expectations, confusing them.

"For years, the Xiong Empire struggled so hard to build what we have today. And every passing year, we suffered great losses and also won some.

"In the early days, some partners left us. On the growth stage, many despised us for stealing their business. And now that we have succeeded, many coveted our achievements. Along with it, we carried on the Xiong family's pride. And also throughout such a tumultuous journey, there was always one constant companion that stayed with us devotedly."

"..." 

"For the Xiong family members who are here, please look beside you."

...?

The Xiong members looked to their side obediently. It was just to show respect to the elder. 

"Who do you see?"

???

Old Xiong was reminded back on the first anniversary that his granddaughter attended. She had said this, 'The Xiong Empire would not be what it is right now without the people who worked hard behind it.'

The Xiong family members indeed worked hard to get to this stage, but even harder than them was their loyal aides who did everything for them.

Old Xiong opened his mouth, repeating the words she said that day. "Without the Zhou family, the Xiong family would not be as prosperous as it is right now."

A collective whisper of the guests buzzed out at the strange turn of events. This seemed like the situation two years ago. But why repeat it now? Would they give a grand marriage arrangement to one of the Zhou family to the branches of the Xiong family?

This was one of the greatest rewards a butler could have from its family's master.

"..." All of the Zhou members were stunned at the sudden recognition. The guests could not help but cast glances at them.

The Zhou elders who were silently watching stand then bowed respectfully to Old Xiong. It was the final act they had to show. Even Zhou Min at the side bowed gratefully at him. The Zhou members were already standing as their position as butlers did not allow them to sit. With confusion, they followed the elders and the head butler's action and bowed to Master Xiong. They were thinking it was an act to show that they appreciated his recognition. 

Old Xiong suddenly felt embarrassed. It was because he was supposed to be the one who should be sorry for his ancestors' mistakes. They were the ones who had wronged the Zhou family, yet they were given gratitude instead. Old Xiong could not look directly at Zhou Min. 

He already began to realize that he seemed to have really taken the Zhou family's help for granted. The surprised looks on the guests' faces at such a simple praise showed this clearly to him.

He thickened his face and continued on with his speech.

"I deeply thank the Zhou family for supporting us behind the scenes, all this time. You have always been the greatest friend of the Xiong family." Old Xiong was really sincere when he said this.

At this time, two people sneaked into the banquet while all attention was on the old man. Fortunately, the guests did not notice their arrival as they were all confused and surprised by Old Xiong's odd speech.

"My ancestors must be extremely happy and satisfied, looking at us now, standing proud with our achievements. You have paid your debt spectacularly. The Xiong family is most grateful for your service and sacrifices." 

Under everyone's shocked gazes, Old Xiong stood away from the mic and bowed forty-five degrees, holding onto the cane to support his aged body. 

It was a bow of respect, gratitude, and also as an equal.

"!!!" 

All of the Zhou family members present stood up in surprise and looked at the Master of Xiong family with wide eyes. They were basically servants, the Xiong family's aides! Their Head Master should not be bowing to them!