This matter soon reached Prime Minister Wang's ears.
Several aides carefully chose their words and cautiously advised, "Prime Minister, the promotion of the plow has been delayed repeatedly. It's a matter of great importance to the people's livelihood, if further obstructed, the Emperor and the Empress Dowager might be displeased."
Prime Minister Wang sneered, "The matter of Zuo Zhen was seized upon by the Empress Dowager, causing me great embarrassment, forcing me to personally handle it. If I don't reclaim this situation, the court may think I'm afraid of the Empress Dowager."
"The unity of minds must not scatter. Otherwise, where will my authority come from in the future! This matter need not be discussed further, proceed according to the previous arrangements."
Prime Minister Wang made decisions with authority, the aides dared not argue further and had no choice but to comply.
Days later, Duke An's men returned crestfallen.
