Reborn as a Noble's Son-Chapter 669 - 625: Mutual Benefit_1

Chapter 669: Chapter 625: Mutual Benefit_1

After contemplating for a moment, Tian Xujian decided to stand still and wait to see what Nie Zhenbang was really up to. However, on the surface, Tian Xujian chuckled, “Mayor Zhenbang, you’re too polite. To be honest, I too bear quite a bit of responsibility. As for my uncle-in-law, you’re well aware of him. Hehe. What’s past is past. We should look ahead.”

Tian Xujian chuckled, which prompted an internal reprimand from Nie Zhenbang: Tian Xujian, the old slicker. On the surface, he seemed to be polite, but in substance, he said nothing at all.

Then, Nie Zhenbang said in a serious tone: “Secretary Tian, I came here this time primarily to discuss two issues with you.”

Nie Zhenbang used the word ‘discuss’ very aptly. If he were to say ‘consult’ or ‘report’, it would inevitably make Nie Zhenbang seem subordinate. However, the use of the word ‘discuss’ placed the two of them on equal footing.

Tian Xujian maintained his composure, seemingly not caring and chuckled, “Mayor Zhenbang, feel free to speak. You’re the protagonist in Wanghai City’s economic construction. Anything related to Wanghai City’s economic development, I am fully supportive of.”

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With that statement, Tian Xujian revealed his attitude. Compared to Nie Zhenbang, Tian Xujian had a better understanding of the balancing principle in politics. Despite their previous disagreements, the key issue was that Tian Xujian needed to retain some control over the discourse. It was absurd for a Secretary of the Municipal Party Committee not to have any voice in the city. Now that Nie Zhenbang was submissive, the situation could be resolved.

After all, there was no deep hatred between them. Tian Xujian could not possibly risk a full-on confrontation with Nie Zhenbang for his uncle-in-law’s issues. On this point, Tian Xujian saw things very clearly—should it come to a showdown, he would probably be the one at a loss.

Nie Zhenbang also smiled at this moment. Tian Xujian, it seemed, was not one to let himself be disadvantaged. He gave himself the credit for economic development and full support for everything related to Wanghai City’s economic development, which essentially served as a veiled reminder for Nie Zhenbang to refrain from meddling too much in the Party Committee’s affairs.

Nie Zhenbang didn’t mind this. So long as Tian Xujian didn’t hinder his progress, he’d be fine with conceding in other areas. What was the harm in that?

After brief contemplation, Nie Zhenbang said, “Secretary Tian, regarding the issue of comrade Hu Jiawang, I am willing to take responsibility. Given the current trend, it’s clear that comrade Hu Jiawang is no longer suitable for the position of Vice Mayor of Wanghai City. Do you have any thoughts on his potential replacement?”

For the first issue, Nie Zhenbang voluntarily conceded the position of the Vice Mayor to Tian Xujian. At present, Hu Jiawang was in charge of agricultural and water affairs, which was not of great importance in the municipal government. So it was reasonable to give this position to Tian Xujian to ease their relationship.

At that moment, Tian Xujian nodded satisfactorily and said, “As for the issue of comrade Hu Jiawang, I believe that the provincial working group must have already made a decision. It’s still too early to discuss this matter now. When the time comes, let comrade Chaoyang and the Organization Department’s Yafu come up with a plan. The final decision lies with the province anyway.”

With endorsements from both Qiao Yiren and Nie Zhenbang, the fate of the position was now resolved. Although the role of a vice mayor was equivalent to a bureau-level post, it wasn’t an important position in the city. Therefore, within Wanghai City, this role didn’t seem to be of much importance.

The municipality wouldn’t oppose Nie Zhenbang’s proposal, and the person nominated by Wanghai City would definitely receive full respect from the Provincial Party Committee. There was no way the other standing members of the provincial committee would offend both Qiao Yiren and Tian Xujian over such a position. So once both Qiao Yiren and Nie Zhenbang had given their approval, the matter was basically settled.

After a pause, Nie Zhenbang said, “Secretary Tian, the second issue is about the future development of Wanghai City.”

With that, Nie Zhenbang pulled out a document from his briefcase and handed it to Tian Xujian.

Tian Xujian was in a good mood at that moment. He was pleased with Nie Zhenbang’s change of attitude. As a Municipal Party Committee Secretary, he had to have some say. If Nie Zhenbang had not given him any, a serious confrontation would’ve been inevitable. Now that Nie Zhenbang had backed off, Tian Xujian would naturally not pursue matters relentlessly.

Tian Xujian chuckled, creating a somewhat relaxed and harmonious atmosphere. “I’m curious to carefully review Mayor Zhenbang’s masterpiece.”

After taking the materials, Tian Xujian was instantly stunned by the title. After reading the entire document, he was even more surprised. His look at Nie Zhenbang had changed—it was indeed hard to compare oneself with others. With this plan, Nie Zhenbang had already surpassed him in grand vision.

After thinking for a moment, Tian Xujian slowly said, “Mayor Zhenbang, building a world-renowned internet high-tech development base is no small matter.”

Looking at Nie Zhenbang, Tian Xujian continued, “The plan is good. But it will be quite challenging to secure an international internet sub-server. It’s not easy to deal with the Americans.”

Nie Zhenbang nodded in agreement, feeling deeply moved at this moment. Not so long ago, he had felt rather restricted in Wanghai City. But now, things seemed much more relaxed. At this point, he had a newfound understanding of Director Shen’s words. Indeed, the main topic within this system is still development. Power struggles are secondary.

Nodding, he then said: “Secretary Tian, your words are sharp and to the point. This indeed is a great challenge. However, I intend to give it a try. Once everything is settled here, I plan to lead a delegation personally to America. I believe there’s a good chance of success.”

Tian Xujian also nodded, saying: “Hmm, if you can make it happen, it will indeed be a substantial boost for our Wanghai. It’s worth a try. Once the itinerary is confirmed, I’ll accompany you to the airport.”

Tian Xujian had a clear view of the domestic Silicon Valley plan, acknowledging its enormous benefits for the nation and for Wanghai City. It naturally carried great merit, therefore, he had no reason to oppose it.

Tian Xujian understood the principle of mutual benefit better than Nie Zhenbang. He understood his own position well enough, in Wanghai City or anywhere else, he had no right to challenge Nie Zhenbang. Now that he has obtained his deserved benefits, he didn’t have any complaints. Thus, their relationship quickly improved.

…

Meanwhile, Hu Jiawang immediately returned home without even going to the city government office once he left the Party Committee Office building.

As soon as Hu Jiawang arrived home, his wife, Liu Guixiang greeted him anxiously, “Old Hu, what happened? What did Secretary Tian say? Is there any progress with Fei’s case? Could you possibly arrange bail for him before the New Year?”

Hu Fei’s case under Nie Zhenbang’s scrutiny, caused Gu Dongliang, the secretary of the Wanghai City Political and Legal Committee, to cooperate fully. The Wanghai Intermediate People’s Court promptly made the first trial judgment. Hu Fei was ultimately convicted for tax evasion and intentional injury, among several other charges. He was sentenced to ten years in prison.

The Hu family did not appeal the decision. Hu Jiawang’s plan was clear: as long as he can save himself, it will be easy to get his son out.

However, things did not go as planned. Now it seemed that even he was in a tight spot. Hearing Liu Guixiang’s words, Hu Jiawang was filled with rage. If it hadn’t been for his wife’s greed and Hu Fei’s arrogance, he wouldn’t be in such a predicament now.

Out of anger, Hu Jiawang retorted: “You’re still worrying about your son? You both have ruined my life. What’s there to save? I can’t even save myself now.”

Those words stunned Liu Guixiang. His sudden outburst left her speechless and she anxiously asked, “Old Hu, what happened? What is wrong?”

“What happened?” Hu Jiawang scoffed, saying coldly, “Nie Zhenbang and Tian Xujian have teamed up. You tell me what’s happened? Yesterday, Tian Xujiang went to the province for a meeting. There’s rumors that their discussions were about me. It seems the Provincial Discipline Inspection Commission is ready for action; for all we know, an investigative team could already be established.”

Upon hearing Hu Jiawang’s words, Liu Guixiang was taken aback. She found it hard to believe and asked, “Old Hu, are you joking? Nie Zhenbang and Tian Xujian, how is that possible?”

With a cold huff, Hu Jiawang said solemnly, “What’s not possible? Inside the system, that’s how it goes. There are no permanent friends or enemies. In the end, it all depends on who offers more chips.”

“Between me and Nie Zhenbang, Tian Xujian naturally chooses the latter. While there are some dirty dealings between the secretary and the mayor, the bottom line is, I don’t bring enough to the table. It seems I’m on the verge of a crisis. Guixiang, you need to pack up your things and run!” Hu Jiawang suddenly made this decision.

No sooner had he finished speaking, than his mobile phone rang. The caller ID raised his anxiety. It was Yi Chang, Secretary-General of the Municipal Party Committee, calling.

As soon as he picked up, Yi Chang’s voice came through, “Mayor Hu, this is Yi Chang. Secretary Tian asked me to inform you that tomorrow morning at nine, leaders of the Municipal Party Committee and Municipal Government will gather together to meet Secretary Ding Jiashu’s team from the Provincial Discipline Inspection Commission.”

Upon hearing these words, Hu Jiawang was stunned. Ding Jiashu himself was in charge.

Hu Jiawang didn’t even remember how he hung up the phone. After a long while, he slumped onto the couch, looked at Liu Guixiang, and suddenly stood up saying: “Guixiang, you need to leave immediately!” (To be continued. If you enjoy this novel, please come to qidian.com to vote and give monthly recommendations. Your support is my greatest motivation.)