Conrad's words plunged Hu Tao into silence for a moment.
For the past two days, she had been temporarily residing in Conrad's manor, acting as "a girl from the remote outskirts of Janus District." She was either directing the venue setup or diligently flipping through a dictionary, and for a moment, she had actually forgotten to consider what came next.
Before Hu Tao could answer, Conrad continued: "Based on my people's investigation over the past two days, your situation is exactly as you described—you possess nothing. In fact, you don't even have an identity registration in the Public Security Bureau's system."
"Therefore, I believe your best option right now is to accept the next job I offer you. Furthermore, it is long-term."
Hu Tao immediately reacted: "Oh? Let me guess, you want me to open a funeral parlor specializing in traditional funerals, and you will be the sole shareholder?"
Conrad swept away the lingering sadness on his face, clapped his hands, and laughed: "Excellent, I enjoy communicating with smart people! Just now, no fewer than twenty guests asked me about your origins. That is proof enough of your value."
"If you can use this unique value to serve me, I will not only provide you with all the money and resources necessary for your work, but I will also grant you great autonomy!"
"I believe you will agree."
At this moment, a ripple had been stirred in Hu Tao's heart.
However, she clearly realized that these people were just like the great tycoons of Fontaine; everything they did served their own interests.
Moreover, more importantly, just as Conrad said, her value was unique. Therefore, even if she wanted to "start her own business," Conrad would only have room to imitate her.
However, given her identity and wealth, not to mention defending her rights, opening a funeral parlor in the district's directly administered center, where housing prices were extremely high, would be an extremely difficult task.
Furthermore, she was certain that Conrad had not disclosed any of her origins to that group of people. Thus, even if she sought help from the famous "Phaethon" on the Rope Net, attracting customers would be very difficult.
After all, which rich person would trust a funeral advertisement on the Rope Net?
Therefore, the implicit game between the two of them was like a poker match, but Hu Tao only had two Jokers, a Four, a Five, and a Two, while Conrad held all bombs. Hu Tao's chance of winning was minuscule.
Thus, Hu Tao maintained a calm expression and said unhurriedly: "Your proposal is indeed tempting, but I also have my conditions."
"I can agree to work for you, but I must maintain absolute freedom."
"Outside of work, you have no right to interfere with where I go or what I do. Furthermore, during the work process, I have my own principles and methods, and you cannot arbitrarily dictate them."
She looked steadily at Conrad, showing no sign of fear.
Conrad paused slightly, then showed an appreciative smile: "Agreed, I accept your conditions. As long as you manage the funeral parlor well, I will not overly interfere with your personal freedom."
"Moreover, I will help you process a legal identity through the Public Security Bureau, granting you even more freedom."
"However, given your lack of experience living in a metropolis, aside from the funeral process and related facilities, all other marketing will be completed with the assistance of a specialized management team to better utilize the market—is that acceptable?"
Hu Tao knew this was a good result, and she nodded: "If that is the case, then I accept your request."
"But let me be clear upfront: if you violate the agreement later and try to cut corners on the funeral process, I will not meekly comply."
"At the same time, I want to remind you that if you intend to send people to infiltrate my staff to acquire related knowledge, let me tell you now: there are some things your people simply cannot learn."
Conrad burst into hearty laughter: "Don't worry, I, Conrad, have always kept my word and never played tricks on the vulnerable."
"From now on, go ahead and do your work. As long as you keep making money for me, I will provide you with all the necessary support."
Next, Conrad sent someone to hand over the employment contract, revised according to their recent conversation. After Hu Tao meticulously checked it and ensured it was correct, both parties signed their names.
After signing the contract, Hu Tao secretly breathed a sigh of relief. She knew that although she hadn't achieved a complete victory in this game, she had done her best to secure the maximum benefit for herself.
Unfortunately, if Zhongli were here...