Chapter 327: Desperate Measures
Chapter 327: Desperate Measures
December 25, 2017
Both sides were rational, and both understood that a complete breakdown of relations and direct confrontation would be a painful decision. Yet, they were also aware that it might not be as straightforward as it seemed.
Everyone was there to safeguard their interests, and no one wanted to burn bridges and engage in open conflict. They sought a compromise, a point where they could find mutual understanding. This was the reason Zhang Yang kept Zhang He around, a relatively wise decision given his situation in Dingxiang.
Under these circumstances, Zhang Yang and Lu Haikong finally met formally, with Zhang He acting as a mediator.
However, the meeting started on a sour note for both parties, with tension palpable in the air. Several times, Zhang He had to intervene to prevent the talks from falling apart.
Despite this, the negotiations were destined to fail, as they were doomed from the start.
Zhang Yang wanted Lu Haikong to give up at least twenty percent of his profits, while Lu Haikong was determined to maintain the status quo. If either party had compromised or both taken a step back, the meeting could have continued. Unfortunately, neither was willing to do so.
It wasn't that they were unwilling to compromise; it was that they couldn't. From the beginning, there was no room for negotiation because neither side had the intention to compromise or allow themselves to be compromised. Both had their reasons for not giving in.
Zhang Yang couldn't back down because he had to show results, and in his current situation, having just arrived in Dingxiang, he dared not encroach on the local aristocratic families or their share of the pie.
Such an approach would be foolish, as it would immediately provoke the local aristocracy. Even with the support of the Zhang family, it would be challenging to maintain his position in Dingxiang. Eventually, he would be replaced and lose this opportunity to rise.
Zhang Yang lacked the time and ability to withstand the pressure from the Zhang family and gradually produce results. He feared that others would seize his achievements, so he had to take action against Lu Haikong to secure his position.
When Zhang Yang first moved against Zhang He, he didn't realize the difficulties he would face. With the backing of the Zhang family and his own capabilities, he thought dealing with a mere bandit would be easy.
However, Lu Haikong proved to be a tough opponent. Zhang Yang found himself in a predicament, and if not for his quick thinking in keeping Zhang He around, his situation would have been even more passive.
Despite his passivity, Zhang Yang could only grit his teeth and persevere. His rise to power was not solely due to his strength; he had the support of high-ranking members of the Zhang family. He had to squeeze every last drop from Lu Haikong to satisfy his backers and secure his position. Thus, he had no room for compromise or concession.
As the one facing exploitation, Lu Haikong had even less reason to compromise.
With neither side willing to yield, the atmosphere during the talks was tense, and as time passed without progress, Zhang Yang became increasingly agitated.
Finally, Zhang Yang slammed his fist on the table, his face flushed with anger, and glared at Lu Haikong, "Lu, you should know that it's because of the Zhang family that you've been able to make such huge profits. Don't you feel guilty about earning millions of gold every month? If you want to continue this business in the long run, it's best not to be too greedy."
On the other side of the table, Lu Haikong sat comfortably, sipping his tea leisurely. He replied calmly, "I'll say it again: if you want to make money, I can provide the goods, but you'll have to figure out how to sell them. I don't care who you sell to, just not me!"
The stark contrast in their attitudes made it clear who held the upper hand.
This conversation had occurred several times, and Zhang Yang had exhausted all his options. If he continued to be aggressive, Lu Haikong would only respond in kind. In desperation, the usually proud and impulsive Zhang Yang softened his tone, "Lu, give me one month. For this month, let me have your profits, and we'll return to the original arrangement afterward. Can you agree to this?"
As Zhang Yang spoke, his eyes reddened. As a member of an aristocratic family, this wasn't the first time he had to humble himself, but it was the first time he had to do so with someone of a lower status. Zhang He, sitting beside him, was surprised to see Zhang Yang, usually so arrogant, in such a position.
This was a desperate move by Zhang Yang, giving him time to create a new situation with his abilities. Once he established himself, he could challenge Lu Haikong again.
It was a clear delaying tactic, and Lu Haikong could see through it without a second thought. There was no way he would agree to Zhang Yang's proposal.
"No deal!" Lu Haikong declared.
As soon as Lu Haikong spoke, Zhang Yang's face turned grim. Surprisingly, he suddenly calmed down, stood up, and left without another word.
As Zhang Yang left, the soldiers in the tavern also withdrew. Zhang He watched Lu Haikong, wanting to say something, but after hesitating, he turned and followed Zhang Yang out.
Lu Haikong made no attempt to stop them.
Chapter end
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