Reborn as a Noble s Son

Chapter 528: Chapter 485 Trivial Matter_1
 

Upon hearing Nie Zhenbang say this, Nie Guowei understood that his son’s words were not aimless. Over the years, he, a deputy department-level cadre from the ministry, suddenly transferred to the remote Yuehai City and took up the post of mayor, a position at the department level. Then, by some means, he advanced to Nanhai City, a special economic zone, taking the role of Deputy Secretary of the municipal party committee in this vice-provincial-level city.

Following that, he served as mayor and subsequently returned to Yanbei Province to serve as deputy governor. Throughout this career progression, Nie Guowei saw the operation and manipulation of his sons every step of the way. To Guowei, it was an irony that his promotion required his son’s arrangement and planning.

However, Nie Guowei saw it clearly that his son was far superior to him in grasping the bigger political picture. This is not something disgraceful. Conversely, Nie Guowei is proud of having such an outstanding son.

For the next two days, the family spent their time in Zhuang City. On the second day of the Lunar New Year, Nie Zhenbang made a courtesy call to Wang Yaguang.

On the other end of the line, Wang Yaguang sounded very enthusiastic. As soon as the call was connected, he pre-empted saying, “Mayor Nie, Happy New Year.”

This was a gesture of goodwill. His strong performance had indeed caused a shift in the mentality of some lurking comrades within the Standing Committee of Wanghai Municipal Party Committee. Regardless of their motivations, this change was generally beneficial for him.

Only in this way could he suppress Shi Yiwu at the Standing Committee and unbalance Lin Zhengxing psychologically, thereby revealing his vulnerabilities.

Adjusting his mindset, Nie Zhenbang jokingly added: “Mayor, you are bending the rules. I called specifically to belatedly wish you a happy new year and you took advantage of the situation and pre-empted me.”

A little joke like this certainly bridged the emotional gap between the two. On the other side, Wang Yaguang laughed, saying, “Zhenbang, respecting the old and cherishing the young are our Huaxia’s traditions. I am older than you. Do you have the guts to compete with an old man like me?”

After exchanging greetings, they further discussed this year’s economic development and situation in Wanghai City. Wang Yaguang appeared very happy and laughed heartily, saying,”Zhenbang, with you being my deputy, my job as mayor is easier now.”

There was absolutely no flattery in Wang Yaguang’s remark, nor was he expressing any dissatisfaction. He was sincere. Unlike Shi Yiwu’s domineering style, Wang Yaguang was more of a scholar-type cadre. He not only did not envy competent subordinates but supported them enthusiastically. This was the fundamental reason for the rapid economic development of Wanghai City in previous years.

After hanging up the phone, Nie Zhenbang’s mobile phone rang again, showing an area code from Wanghai. Nie Zhenbang’s eyebrows furrowed.

Many acquaintances, such as Qi Siyuan, Xiao Shanming, Li Jupeng, the driver Guo Sanbao, and Lin Chunnan, the Wanghu District Party secretary, had called him on New Year’s Eve. He had just hung up on Wang Yaguang; who could it be this time?

With this question in mind, as soon as the call was connected, a familiar voice came from the other side, “Mayor Nie, Happy New Year.”

Lin Mohan? Could it be him? In between, Nie Zhenbang had considered other possible callers, like Liu Yafu or Gu Dongliang, the Secretary of the Political and Legal Committee.

Those two were the most likely. For example, Liu Yafu, as the Minister of the Organization Department, had been firmly suppressed by Zhang Zusi. In other words, in Wanghai City, Liu Yafu was just a nominal Minister of the Organization Department. The real power over personnel matters was held by Zhang Zusi, and even the executive deputy minister of the Organization Department had more power than Liu Yafu. Naturally, Liu Yafu wouldn’t be content.

For instance, Gu Dongliang, as the Secretary of the Municipal Political and Legal Committee, was in charge of all the political and legal work in the city. All public security, prosecution, courts, and legal departments were under his jurisdiction. Normally, the Secretary of the Political and Legal Committee was also the director of the Public Security Bureau. Even if they didn’t hold that position, it had to be held by a trusted person. Initially, in Liangxi City, in New Li City, Chen Le was just the director of the Public Security Bureau, and even his position as Deputy Secretary of the Political and Legal Committee was reduced, which significantly weakened the power of the Political and Legal Committee’s Secretary. This was a classic example.

The director of the Wanghai City Public Security Bureau was obviously not Gu Dongliang’s personnel, and as the saying goes, nobody could sleep soundly by others’ bed. Naturally, Gu Dongliang wanted to drive Zhou Qingguo away. Collaborating with him was a good method.

However, at this moment, it turned out to be Lin Mohan. Lin Mohan was in charge of the city’s Propaganda Department. Relatively speaking, his power in the city was independent and without the danger of being marginalized. Why would he call?

While pondering, Nie Zhenbang quickly adjusted his mindset, smiling, and said, “Minister Lin, I wish you a Happy New Year too, may your family enjoy happiness.”

After exchanging a few pleasantries, Lin Mohan changed his tone and laughed, “Mayor Nie, technically, I shouldn’t disturb your rest during the Spring Festival, but in our conversation, I felt a connection, like Bo Ya and Ziqi. Mayor Nie, you are a talented person. Xinli has always been the brightest pearl in the northwest. In terms of propaganda work, I hope Mayor Nie can provide more guidance.”

The phrase “Boya Ziqi” actually comes from the “Fables”, and there’s a proverb, “High Mountain and Running River.” It compares Nie Zhenbang to his confidant and soulmate.

As for Lin Mohan, in making decisions and speaking, there is a scholarly air about him befitting his work in propaganda. However, the last part of his sentence seems to hint at an attempt to get closer to me.

The work of the Municipal Party Committee’s Propaganda Department is always coordinated by the Municipal Party Committee itself. As the executive deputy mayor, Nie Zhenbang primarily focuses on governmental work. At this moment, it seems rather ill-timed for Lin Mohan to expect me to oversee propaganda work.

However, Nie Zhenbang would not be vague at this moment. The request for guidance is a pretense, the real purpose is to test his intentions. If he were to refuse now, he would be refusing a standing committee member, not just guidance.

Nie Zhenbang, who does have some knowledge about propaganda work, immediately responded without ambiguity, smiling and saying, “Minister Lin, you’re being too modest. I can’t provide guidance, but I’m open to discussing and exploring it together.”

With this statement, he expressed his position: he accepted the intent to join forces, but he would not treat Lin Mohan as a subordinate. He effectively reassured Lin Mohan.

“Minister Lin, I feel the propaganda work in WangHai City is too conservative. I think we can consider launching an episode dedicated to social issues on television, aiming to shift societal contradictions,” Nie Zhenbang casually suggested.

In his past life, such programs were quite popular. Domestic TV news media must have their programming approved by the Broadcasting Authority and the Propaganda Department. As the first one to act, Lin Mohan could certainly reap many benefits from this approach.

After some pleasantries, Lin Mohan hung up, feeling rather satisfied. He had wanted to express his willingness to switch allegiances, but he hadn’t expected to receive guidance from Nie Zhenbang. The gain exceeded his expectations.

…

On the third day of the lunar new year, Nie Zhenbang, along with Li Lixue and Yang Anna, joined Nie Ziyu and He Yitao on a business trip to Tang City.

On the one hand, they were visiting He Yitao’s home to learn about his background because Nie Ziyu and He Yitao’s relationship had already reached the point of discussing marriage. At this point, as Ziyu’s elder brother, it would be normal for Nie Zhenbang to check things out.

Upon arriving in Tang City in the afternoon, Nie Zhenbang went to the Tang City public cemetery, armed with candles and offerings. He went to pay homage to his mother.

He Yitao was surprised by Nie Zhenbang’s origin, he hadn’t known he was also from Tang City. He Yitao’s parents were regular officials in the eastern district of Tang City. His father was the chief of the personnel department of the Dongcheng District Civil Affairs Bureau, which made him an official, while his mother was an ordinary employee at the Dongcheng District Credit Cooperative.

While at He’s home, Nie Zhenbang was open about his own family situation. Seeing this, Mr and Mrs He looked at Nie Ziyu with a different perspective. Elder Nie’s granddaughter, Governor Nie’s daughter, whose brother is also the executive deputy mayor of Wanghai City – all these tie-ups made the He’s feel like they have achieved a status they never had.

Nie Zhenbang discerned this and he quickly comforted them, “Mr and Mrs He, Yitao and Ziyu have a freewill relationship. Neither I nor my parents object to it. I came here this time to invite both of you to visit Zhuang City when it’s convenient. As for my father, his official duties keep him quite busy. Please understand. Also, how you choose to treat Ziyu is entirely up to you. She shouldn’t be treated differently due to her status, which would be against the spirit of parenting.”

The couple was amused to hear this. They never thought their son could have such good luck. And Nie Zhenbang, being a reasonable man, comforted them. Mr. He said, “Mayor Nie, you are too polite. Governor Nie is literally busy as a cranberry merchant, so it’s only right for us to visit him.”

After having a meal at He’s, Nie Zhenbang met with the Secretary of Tang city, Liu Daguan, in the evening, and officially introduced He Yitao. This was the formal endorsement.

Looking at Liu Daguan’s thoughtful expression, Nie Zhenbang was relieved. Liu Daguan was one of his father’s loyal subordinates in Yanbei. He understood Nie’s intentions. At this moment, he already saw He Yitao as a member of the Nie family. Believing Liu Daguan was smart enough, he imagined Liu would assist He, as it would be easy for a city’s Secretary to promote someone to a section level. As for how far He Yitao can grow, it depends on his own capabilities and the extent of the Nie family’s recognition.

PS: I’m very surprised by the 92 votes. Currently, we’ve temporarily returned to the top thirty in the overall list. I’m grateful to my brothers and sisters. The updates for 300 votes and 350 votes will be tomorrow. Which means, there will be five bursts tomorrow. Right now, at 359 votes, brothers and sisters, we are not far from 400 votes. Shall we let Old Cai have six bursts?(To be continued. If you like this work, welcome to Qidian.com to vote for recommendation and monthly tickets. Your support is my greatest motivation.)