Aunt Xue blushed slightly, stared at by so many people. They all assumed she had something going on with Lu Ming.
Even if she had indeed had a physical relationship with Lu Ming, she couldn't let others know. Otherwise, what would become of her reputation?
"Hmph, I only managed to get Pan'er imprisoned by giving money and several virgins to Governor Lu. Otherwise, I would have already traded my life for his."
The others nodded in agreement. That made sense; money and women were the key to getting in.
As for whether it was that simple, definitely not! These were just stepping stones, not bargaining chips.
The dignified Lady Wang, standing to the side, a hint of doubt flashed across her elegant face. She could sense her sister's difference, but she needed to verify what it was.
However, now wasn't the time to ask such questions. Deep down, she wanted her son Baoyu and her sister's daughter Baochai to marry. Xue Baochai's talent and character had won her approval, so she very much hoped Xue Baochai could become her daughter-in-law.
"Lu Ming is not a simple man; it can't be solved by offering a woman. I think we should go and talk to him," Wang Ziteng said, somewhat regretting that he should have acted sooner; now it was too late.
If he could prove his worth through other means, perhaps he wouldn't be in such a passive position.
"His Majesty has already issued an edict ordering him to support Bingzhou. Once he leaves, won't Brother Ziteng's opportunity come?" Shi Nai continued to urge him on. Rather than being treated like cattle, it was better to strike first!
Suddenly, Grandmother Jia spoke up, scolding, "Foolish!"
With Grandmother Jia's discerning eye, she naturally knew what Lu Ming was planning.
Combined with Xue Pan's words, it meant he wanted the four great families to be Lu Ming's dogs, his servants!
This was a situation far worse than death, and now that their weakness had been exposed, their only chance of survival was to have a proper talk with Lu Ming. This talk could be done either by going directly to his door or through an intermediary.
She had originally intended to speak with her daughter, Jia Min, but Jia Min had already stated in her letter that she could return home to visit her family, but she absolutely could not speak on behalf of the Jia family again, otherwise both she and Daiyu would be in grave danger.
As a concubine, she was pampered beyond measure. Before the principal wife, she could do as she pleased because of her status and position.
Grandmother Jia's angry shout sent a chill down Wang Ziteng's spine. He had initially been somewhat tempted, but upon closer reflection, he broke out in a cold sweat and blurted out, "Is he perhaps just waiting for us to make our move so he can wipe them all out in one fell swoop?"
Only then did everyone realize what was happening, and they felt a profound sense of dread.
What kind of cunning would lead someone to such a thought?
Is this still the young governor?
They always assumed he was too young to be easily manipulated, never considering that someone who could sit in the governor's seat couldn't possibly be a fool!
At this moment, Grandmother Jia pondered for a moment, then said, "Second Madam, I'll trouble you to go to the Lu residence on my behalf to see Min'er. She's pregnant. I'm not feeling well, so please take good care of her. If possible, meet with Governor Lu. If he can be lenient and let those two good-for-nothings go, the Jia family is willing to agree to his conditions and follow his lead from now on!"
Madam Wang was surprised; she hadn't expected Grandmother Jia to send her as a representative. "My aunt is pregnant? Congratulations! I'll go prepare right away."
"Sister, I'll go with you too. I've been to the Lu residence a few times and have some influence; otherwise, I wouldn't even be able to get through the gate." Aunt Xue didn't want to stay here either, even though it was closely related to the fate of the Xue family.
But the Xue family's fate was already sealed: to be swallowed up by Lu Ming. Their businesses, connections, distribution channels, workshops—all would be absorbed.
From immense wealth to a state of near starvation, that was the Xue family's end.
While it seemed tragic, it was far better than losing both their wealth and their people. At least they would be alive and retain some wealth.
Smart people always know how to choose. Some attach themselves to the powerful and live well. Others oppose them and die a gruesome death.
After Lady Wang and Aunt Xue left, Grandmother Jia waved her hand wearily. "I disagree with opposing the Governor. This old woman doesn't understand the outside world. As the saying goes, even a powerful dragon can't suppress a local snake. Once this dragon from across the river is able to devour the entire Chang'an, we can't stop it. Now that I've said this, it's up to you to consider."
Grandmother Jia left wearily. She didn't want to see her own family fall into ruin, nor did she want to see the four closely connected families break apart. Rather than fighting Lu Ming to the bitter end, it was better to surrender completely.
The Shi family, the Wang family, and Xue Pan stared at each other, then all looked at Wang Ziteng.
Clearly, in the end, Ziteng was the best choice, given his highest official rank among them.
A title didn't mean anything; it only represented a fief, a guaranteed minimum.
But a title could be stripped or removed altogether. The former was a demotion, the latter meant total loss!
Wang Ziteng's expression shifted, clearly he was considering many possibilities.
Using the Yuan family's power to fight Lu Ming?
Don't be ridiculous. It was their combined efforts that kept the Yuan family's influence outside Hangu Pass. Now, even if they allied with the Yuan family, it was already beyond their reach, too far to be of any use.
As for leaving Chang'an, that was practically the same as dying.
A person is worthless away from home; everything would have to start anew.
Go and try to grab some food from the established powerful families?
They'd probably be swallowed up before even the higher-ups could make a move!
"Let's talk. As long as it's not excessive, we can talk. This Lu Ming wants to control everything. What do you think?" Wang Ziteng stated his conclusion first, then emphasized Lu Ming's personality, before turning to ask them what they thought. He was clearly looking for someone to share the burden.
So that when they were being criticized for being spineless, they would have someone to share the blame.
"Whatever Brother Ziteng says, we'll do. No questions asked." Shi Nai, though unwilling, could only accept his fate.