Everyone knew that the best way to lead subordinates was to balance firmness with leniency.
After wielding the stick, one had to offer a sweet reward to win people's hearts.
Seeing Chong Changming and the others looking grim and silent, Lin Yi's imposing air abruptly faded, replaced by a gentle smile.
"Of course, there is no need for you all to be overly nervous."
"What I mean by 'obedience' is not blind submission, nor do I expect you to become timid yes-men."
Lin Yi's gaze slowly swept across everyone in the hall. His eyes were clear and sincere, without the slightest condescension of a superior. "All of you here are Emperor Realm cultivators. You have endured countless trials to reach where you are today. Whether in cultivation or seniority, many of you brothers are more seasoned than I am. Were I not burdened with the duties of a steward, then judging solely by experience and status, none of us would necessarily rank above another."
Seeing Lin Yi suddenly change his tone and cease using the Mystic Bell Emperor Artifact in his hand to intimidate them, the White Tiger Captains in the hall exchanged glances.
Ignoring their subtle movements, Lin Yi continued, "What I seek is not your flattery, but your wholehearted dedication to your duties."
"As long as you brothers fulfill your responsibilities and safeguard the Outer City of Starfall City and the Myriad Heavens Spirit Gathering Plate, I naturally will not treat you poorly."
"However, I have only just arrived and have yet to establish any merits. I have no rare treasures in hand to offer as rewards, only several dozen Emperor Artifacts that I just collected from the Armor and Weapon Pavilion and personally repaired."
As soon as he finished speaking, anticipation flashed in Chong Changming and the