87 Schemes And Plans - 28.3 (1/2)
While Fan Zhu Xia got acquainted with her new aunt and cousin, a very important discussion was happening.
”Li Jie, Yong Rui, it's good that both of you are here.”
”Of course. What did you need us for Father? Uncle?”
Instead of answering Fan Li Jie, their father gestured for them to take a seat first.
Meeting each other's gazes, the two brothers simultaneously sat down with tacit understanding.
While one looked serious and aloof, the other exuded an air of lazy frivolity. A complete contrast to each other yet oddly complementary.
Seeing his sons' different personalities clearly reflected in the aura and presence they portray, Fan Hui Liang couldn't help but let out a few chuckles before he motioned his brother to take the lead.
Nodding, Fan Hui Zhong swept a glance at his nephews before finally opening his mouth to explain why they called for them.
”I am sure both of you already know that your father and I have decided to make several moves to reassert are family's status within the capital...”
With a single word, Li Jie nodded as he said ”En.”
At the same time that Yong Rui playfully affirmed and replied, ”Of course, Uncle.”
Nodding in approval, Fan Hui Zhong continued.
”When the title of Lei Wangye was bestowed upon me and I was given authority and status to have my own Lei Palace, the timing for me was incredibly inopportune and my circumstances was not the best which is why all the pressure of both our family's affairs and my Lei Palace was handled by your father. This resulted with the Lei Palace being inextricably linked to the Fan Estate and although I personally have no problems in regards to this, this however had an unfortunate influence on the Fan Estate.”
Seeing that both of them were listening attentively, Fan Hui Zhong went on to explain.
”At first glance, our Fan Family benefits from it's association with the Lei Palace and to some extent, that is true. However, due to the benefits gained will also be some unwanted attention along with some underlying schemes and plots made by those who feel threatened or envious of this. What happened happened recently is enough proof of that.”
”Then wouldn't things just become harder from now on after receiving the emperor's imperial edict?” Fan Li Jie asked.
”That is indeed true which is why we summoned the two of you so that you may also share your thoughts as well as assist your father and I to ensure that our plans does not fail.”
Seeing Li Jie's pondering look, Fan Hui Zhong took the initiative and further elaborated.
”First of all, with the imperial edict, we have monopolized the are surrounding Dark Flames Mountain due to the newly bestowed three plots of the surrounding land to my Lei Palace in addition to our Fan Estate's current ownership of the remaining area. As of now, you both know that the construction of the walls has already begun with the Dark Flames Mountain as the center. Things will generally stay the same with the only difference that I want to help expand the area the Fan family's estate occupies. This is where the two of you will come in.”
To further explain, Fan Hui Liang then took over and said, ”Your uncle and I have discussed this and I am sure your grandfather will agree to this as well. First of all, we have decided to move the Fan Estate to the eastern side of the Dark Flames Mountain and as such, it's entrance would be much nearer to the area where most military and officials estates would be located, just a short distance away from where our old estate used to be. For this matter, preparations are already underway and you; Li Jie will be in charge of overseeing this and should you need help, you may ask your mother and young brother; Xian for assistance.”