This situation was rather awkward, as it involved private matters, so Lu Ming's refusal was understandable.
Furthermore, he voiced his concerns, demonstrating his characteristic 'honesty'.
Because of Lu Ming's honesty, the Marquis Zhao, after some consideration, agreed, "You can rest assured and treat Madam's illness. I don't blame you for this. You are a skilled and compassionate doctor, the most capable physician I have ever seen, even surpassing the imperial physicians in the palace. Here's the arrangement: just tell Liu Quan what medicinal herbs you need. As long as Madam is cured, you can proceed as you see fit."
Lu Ming frowned slightly and shook his head, "How about this, I'll write down the prescription. Madam can take it first, or consult someone else. If it doesn't work, then we'll discuss it again. I really can't do that."
Having said that, he took out a pencil and began to write.
He was using a strategy of retreat to advance; he could continue to stall until he was useful before making a deal.
For now, he had done enough; he didn't need anything else.
There are still many things to deal with; this matter can be put aside for now.
Seeing Lu Ming's resolute attitude, Zhao Hou was also helpless. What could he say to someone like that? "Very well, so be it."
Madam Zhang, however, was somewhat surprised. She had initially thought her young lover would take the opportunity to seduce her sister-in-law.
Unexpectedly, her young lover had such a backbone. It seemed that her relationship with him wasn't accidental, but rather a spiritual connection, a genuine affection!
If Lu Ming knew, he would definitely laugh out loud. He was simply playing hard to get, and it wasn't appropriate to do so at the moment. He hadn't thought that far ahead; this was a lucky accident, and he was being seen as a good person.
After writing the prescription, Lu Ming took his leave. Madam Zhang offered to see him off and, while she was at it, to examine herself, so they left together.
After a long while, Zhao Hou remained seated in the courtyard, gazing at the chessboard before him. "Madam, why don't you play a game with me?" he asked.
"It would be my greatest honor," Wang Shi replied, slowly placing a black piece on the board. "My lord, my illness doesn't need treatment. Such a shameful consultation is best avoided."
"No," Zhao Hou said, "your illness must be treated. You may not know, but His Majesty's chronic ailment was largely cured by him, and he's still recuperating. His Majesty speaks highly of him. Just wait. Soon, people will be flocking to him for treatment. Isn't the old master of the Yang family nearing his end? Yang Biao will surely return to plead for peace." Zhao Hou knew very well how valuable a physician capable of treating difficult and complex illnesses was.
"That old fox Yang Ci, as long as he's alive, can continue to bring prosperity to the Yang family. Once everything is smoothly handed over, even his death will be worthwhile."
"Oh? It seems he truly is an extraordinary person," Wang Shi said silently, placing her piece on the board. She was from the Langya Wang family, well-educated and reasonable.
Men and women from aristocratic families are all literate and literate. With more education, they understand etiquette and can distinguish right from wrong, giving them a starting point far superior to ordinary women.
The so-called "a woman's virtue lies in her lack of talent" is nothing but a deception of the common people.
Only when those at the bottom lose their competitive advantage can they remain invincible.
Who among decent people wouldn't learn?
Not learning is like being a fool, destined to be fooled and manipulated!
"Let him treat you now; the cost is less, but it's hard to say what will happen later. This boy is not greedy or corrupt, and his character is honest. Do you know why I'm letting him treat you?" Zhao Hou picked up a white stone and placed it, perfectly blocking the black stone's movement.
Go, a refined art of wisdom. Being good at Go doesn't necessarily make one a genius, but it certainly gives one a unique way of thinking and faster reaction times.
"Why? Does the Master have another intention?" Zhao Hou's wife genuinely didn't want treatment, but she also didn't want to die.
Who would want to die?
Especially seeing the rosy complexion of his sister-in-law, the rosy glow of someone whose chronic illness had been cured.
It's said she'll be doing some unique dances to cultivate her mind and body; it all sounds rather complicated.
"He's very honest. The day he treated His Majesty, His Majesty rewarded him and let him choose. He said he wanted a woman, haha!" Zhao Hou slowly recounted what happened that day, even detailing Wang Lang's ordeal.
The Langya Wang clan is very famous, especially in Xuzhou.
Many members of the main family hold official positions in the court. Even Wang Yun is from a branch of the Wang clan, though they've moved to Guanzhong; the main family remains the Wang clan.
Therefore, despite the Wang clan's relatively low profile, their abilities are considerable.
They can't compare to the Yuan and Yang clans, but they're not far behind.
"What a despicable scoundrel," Lady Zhao muttered under her breath. To dare to toy with another man's wife and daughters—he was worse than an animal.
Zhao Hou, on the other hand, revealed a smile only a man could understand, and continued playing his chess piece. "This kind of person knows his limits; he's a good prospect. His Majesty intends to give him an important position, and I also intend to use him."
He paused, seemingly emboldened only by his wife, "So many children, not one of them is easy to deal with. Zan'er, Qi'er, neither of them are easy to manage. Humph, I've been wise all my life, how could I have given birth to such two scoundrels? If they had even a fraction of my ability, things wouldn't have turned out like this!"
Liu Zan was Zhao Hou's eldest son, and Liu Qi was his third son, both born to his principal wife, Lady Wang.
Because of Zhao Hou's distinguished connections, he could decide his heir himself.
Generally, the Imperial Clan Court would report to the Emperor, who would then issue an edict bestowing the title of heir, who would inherit the title.
The reason Marquis Zhao hasn't designated an heir is because none of his seven or eight sons are capable.
"Master, are you planning to win over Lu Ming and have him assist you?" Madam Wang seemed to understand. Having a strong minister to assist would ensure that whoever inherits the title can retain a portion of the family fortune—a good thing.
Moreover, according to custom, the eldest son is chosen, not the youngest. Her child still has the best chance.
"Yes, that's what I want to do. Let's see. If I'm not mistaken, the Yuan family will make their move next. That old bastard Yuan Kui isn't exactly magnanimous, hehe. If Lu Ming can pull through, I'll marry Yu'er to him as a secondary wife." Marquis Zhao is going all out. He's a shrewd businessman, and most importantly, he has a keen eye and the courage to act decisively.
Timely investment allows you to reap the greatest benefits with the least cost.
Offering help in times of need is often more touching than adding to someone's success, and it makes things easier to talk to them in the future.