Power and Wealth

by Stayrr

An accident let him have a special ability to turn back time up to 1 minute. When he said the wrong things in front of his leader, he was able to return back to 1 minute before to correct what he said. During jade stone gambling and there was no jade inside, he turns back time to pick another stone. When the woman he likes met an accident, he can return back to 1 minute before to s

16. 465

Power and Wealth #Chapter 465 – Malingering! - Read Power and Wealth Chapter 465 – Malingering! Online - All Page - Novel Next

Chapter 465 – Malingering!

Tuesday morning.

It is a gloomy day and started drizzling.

Dong Xuebing was in his office when he received information that Xiang Daofa called for a Party Committee Meeting to discuss the investment fair. His face immediately changed as he did not expect this old bastard to make a move against him so fast.

Half an hour passed.

One hour passed.

Ring... ring... ring... Hu Silian called Dong Xuebing on his mobile phone.

Dong Xuebing has been waiting by his phone and quickly answer it. "Hello, Sister Hu."

"The Party Committee Meeting had just ended." Hu Silian said in a low voice. "Mayor Xie was preparing for the County Government meeting and asked me to call you."

"How was it?"

"It is as expected. Secretary Xiang brought up your relationship with Mayor Xie and wants to transfer you to another department. But Mayor Xie refused. She said you are the only person who is capable of leading the Investment Promotion Agency, and this matter was left hanging." Hu Silian had summarized it, but the meeting was intense. Xie Huilan had shown a firm attitude for the first time, and Secretary Xiang had no choice but to give up transferring Dong Xuebing.

I am not transferred away?!

Dong Xuebing is relieved. It's great to be not transferred, but why did Xiang Daofa give in so easily?

"But..." Hu Silian continued. "Although your position is not changed, ... because Mayor Xie is the overall in charge of investment fair, it will attract gossips. With her being the overall in charge and you do all the actual work... that's why the Party Committee decided to let someone take over you."

Dong Xuebing's face changed. "Who will be taking over this investment fair?"

Hu Silian replied. "Your Deputy Chief Lui Dafa had requested a transfer because he is deeply affected by his wife's incident, and Secretary Xiang had approved it. Lui Dafa will be transferred to the County's Political Consultative Conference, and his current position will be taken over by a guy call Jia Yan. Secretary Xiang and the committee members decided this through votings. He is the City's Investment Promotion Agency's Deputy Chief and will be in charge of this investment fair.

Lui Dafa resigned from his current position?

Even the Deputy Chief is confirmed?

Xiang Daofa is too much. Even I don't know about these as the Agency's Chief! Do you think you rule this County by yourself?!

Needless to ask, this Jia Yan must be Xiang Daofa's man and is planted in the Agency to watch Dong Xuebing. Although Dong Xuebing dislikes this arrangement, he cannot do anything about it. This is an exchange, or a compromise, by Xie Huilan to let Dong Xuebing holds on to his position, and this is the best outcome.

"When is the reporting to work?" Dong Xuebing asked.

"Because the investment fair is starting soon, he should be reporting this afternoon."

Dong Xuebing took a deep breath. "That means even I must listen to him during this period?"

"No." Hu Silian replied. "But this investment fair... the Party Committee had given Jia Yan the authority to be the final decision maker."

Isn't this the same?

Does this mean the new Deputy Chief can step all over Dong Xuebing?!

Although Dong Xuebing knew this is the best outcome, he is still furious. After hanging up with Hu Silian, he called Xie Huilan.

Ring... ring...

Xie Huilan answered the call calmly. "Haha... my meeting is starting soon. What do you want to say?"

"Huilan." Dong Xuebing replied. "I am impressed. How can you still laugh now? I had not expect to remain in my position, and I don't mind someone taking over the investment fair. But who is that Jia Yan? He doesn't even know about the work in our Investment Promotion Agency, and he is going to handle the investment fair?"

"I had raised this point as an objection. But Secretary Jia said Jia Yan had been involved in planning the City's investment fair and is more experienced than everyone in your Agency. That's why transferring Jia Yan over from the City is the right thing for the investment fair. He also says that Jia Yan can easily take on the role after a few days."

"Bullshit! This is trying to snatch the credit!" Dong Xuebing shouted. "I had set up everything, and we will be signing a major contract worth almost 100 million during that fair. After working so hard for so many days, he is just coming over to claim all the credit? What the hell is Xiang Daofa thinking? This is too scheming. Changing the leader last minute to claim the credit for himself?! Is this his vision of the overall situation?!"

Even if Dong Xuebing is not involved in the planning of the investment fair, he will still get some credit for it. But Jia Yan will be credited for planning and organizing the fair, and he will get the biggest credit. The report will state that he got Park Yongxi's investment, and Dong Xuebing and the rest had only participated in it. Xiang Daofa will also be credited for this success.

Xie Huilan paused for a second and said. "Some people think the Investment Promotion Agency's job is easy. Before you took over the Agency, who dares to take over the Agency Chief job? Why? It is tough, and Yan Tai County's economic environment is behind the other Counties. But after the Agency showed some results, all these people want to get credit for it. Haha... This is wishful thinking... It's not easy to get credit without doing anything."

Dong Xuebing heard Xie Huilan's tone and asked. "What is your plan?"

Xie Huilan slowly replied. "In the past, our Yan Tai County's investment fair had difficulties in getting investments and investors to participate. The investment they raised from the fair is also pathetic. No one wants to be appointed to organize it. These people can only see the Agency is showing some results. Still, they had forgotten about the previous investment fairs' results. Haha... Then I will remind them and see if they can get the credit from the Agency without you!"

Dong Xuebing got shocked. "You want me to give up?"

"Didn't you tell me that you have not been well?" Xie Huilan laughed. "Go to the hospital for a full checkup."

Damn!

Xie Huilan is asking me to feign sick!

Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference

Report chapter Comments

Chapter 466 – I will get back to you in other ways!

Before noon.

Dong Xuebing is suddenly hospitalized. But this is expected.

Everyone knows Chief Dong is very angry.

Although the Agency's Chief refusing to work now is wrong, the leaders will not blame him even if they know he is malingering. Xiao Dong is being replaced as the organizer of the investment fair by a newly appointed Deputy Chief. Moreover, during the investment fair period, he does not have any work. They can't be expecting him to report to work and listen to his Deputy's instruction.

County's People Hospital.

A single ward.

Dong Xuebing laid on the bed and called Xie Huilan. "Has your meeting ended?"

Xie Huilan replied. "Yes. Just ended."

"I am at the hospital now, and there are some issues with my health. The doctors will be putting me on drip later."

"Haha... you are fast. Have a good rest these few days."

Dong Xuebing is still feeling frustrated. "Huilan, I am still pissed over this. If it weren't that I recently got into lots of trouble, I would not come to the hospital. It's just Xiang Daofa and Jia Yan. I don't believe I will lose to them if I go all out! I will not let them live in peace!"

"What are you planning?"

Dong Xuebing is not scared to say all these. "How about we find a way to bring down Xiang Daofa?"

"Haha... and then?"

"And then?! Just bring him down first, and we decide later!" Dong Xuebing is furious with Xiang Daofa for making use of him.

Xie Huilan laughed. "You are always thinking of these. You are lucky to bring down the former Party Secretary. It's not easy to bring down a County's Party Secretary. Alright, even if you manage to bring down Xiang Daofa, what is going to happen next? Have you considered the consequences after that? Other than venting our anger, it is meaningless."

Dong Xuebing thought for a while and keep quiet.

Xie Huilan continued. "You might not like to hear this. Haha... I will be the first person to object if anyone is going to bring down Xiang Daofa."

"Huh?" Dong Xuebing is stunned.

"Politics is not child's play or hooligans fighting." Xie Huilan laughed. "I had become the County's Mayor for less than a year. If Xiang Daofa is brought down, do you think I can take over his position?"

Dong Xuebing suddenly understood what Xie Huilan is trying to say.

"Do you understand?"

"Yes."

Dong Xuebing understood everything. Xie Huilan had just stabilized her position as the Mayor, and the County Government work is on track. Even though Xiang Daofa had been finding faults and making things difficult for her, these are nothing to her and the County Government. Suppose a new Party Secretary replaces Xiang Daofa. In that case, everything will change, and Xie Huilan will need time to get used to it. If the new Party Secretary is more overbearing than Xiang Daofa, it might get complicated. The new Party Secretary might even remove Dong Xuebing from his position using conflict of interest as an excuse.

Bring down Xiang Daofa, and then bring down the new Party Secretary?

After bringing down the new Party Secretary, is he going to bring down the new replacement again?

How can this still be politics?! Even if Sister Xie's family is influential, but they also cannot afford to do this. They are not the only voice in the government.

No wonder Xie Huilan refused to do anything against Xiang Daofa in the past. She has her considerations.

After listening to Sister Xie, Dong Xuebing felt he had learned a lot about politics. He has been a frog in the well, and there are lots more for him to learn.

"... alright, I will just have a good rest in the hospital obediently."

"Haha... maybe not."

"Huh? You are the one who asked me to be hospitalized."

"But I did not ask you to remain there obediently. Keep your spirits up. You must be prepared to show me your fighting spirit when I need you."

Dong Xuebing sits up. "You mean things might change?"

"I don't know if things might change or not. But it will not be easy for Xiang Daofa to steal your credit. I only don't want him to be transferred out, but that does not mean he can do whatever he wants in the County Government. Just wait in the hospital and leave the rest to me."

"Ok."

Dong Xuebing is assured after hearing what Xie Huilan said. His rank is too low to interfere with the rivalry between the County's No.1 and No. 2.

But Xie Huilan has her way of fighting, and Dong Xuebing has his way of doing things. He might not be as mature and experienced as Xie Huilan in politics. Still, one hundred Xie Huilan cannot be compared to him when creating trouble for someone. That's right. He is still angry with Xiang Daofa backstabbing him, and he will use his ways to get back at him!

Suffer in silence?!

That is not my style!

But Dong Xuebing had learned his lesson. His biggest flaw is not his vengeful character, but it's the way he conducts his revenge. It's too evil and not suitable for government service. That's why he decided to "play by the rules" this time against Xiang Daofa!

My Huilan is going to deal with you with political means! Then I will get back to you in other ways!

This is called a two-pronged attack!

After a while, Luo Haiting, Guo Panwei, and the rest found out that Dong Xuebing is hospitalized and knew the investment fair's leadership changes. All of them quickly called Dong Xuebing and wants to visit him at the hospital. But he refused to meet them and only asked them to carry on with their work. This is office hours, and it's not right for them to visit him at the hospital. But it's fine for them to visit after work. Dong Xuebing still doesn't know about Xie Huilan's plan against Xiang Daofa and doesn't want others to get a hold of him.

Noon.

After lunch, Dong Xuebing looked at his watch and called Hu Silian. "Hello, Sister Hu? Have you taken your lunch?"

"I just finished work and am about to go home to have lunch. How are you feeling?"

"Ah... it's just some minor issues."

Hu Silian knew Dong Xuebing was feigning sick and did not continue to ask. She laughed. "Do you need anything from me?"

"Yes. Do you know where Secretary Xiang is now? Is he still at work or had returned to the quarters?"

Hu Silian blinked. "Secretary Xiang still has not reported off and might be in his office. But he should be returning home soon to have lunch. I heard his son had returned from Beijing."

"Oh... thanks."

"Xuebing, you are... you must not do anything rash. You..."

"Don't worry. What else can I do? It's fine. It was just a simple question."

Hu Silian doesn't believe him. Her heart skipped a beat when Dong Xuebing asked where Xiang Daofa is. It might be fine if it was someone else. But Xiao Dong had done lots of outrageous things, and how can she not worry? Furthermore, Xiang Daofa had just taken away his authority, and she knows Dong Xuebing will not suffer in silence.

"Xuebing, you..."

"Don't tell Huilan about this. I will not cross the line."

Hu Silian doesn't know whether to cry or laugh. When have you kept yourself in check? She got a bad feeling after hanging up and rushed to the quarters.

At the same time, Dong Xuebing left the hospital and drove to the quarters. He had not brought anything with him to the hospital and need to return to get his clothes, toothbrush, shaver, etc., and look out for opportunities to get back at Xiang Daofa. Of course, he will not leave any evidence or let anyone know he is up to no good this time.

Entrance of the County Party Committee family quarters.

Dong Xuebing drove nearer and saw Hu Silian rushing to the quarters on her electric bike. He knew she is worried and is here to watch over him. But no one can stop him. Suddenly, he noticed a silver-colored Corolla parked by the roadside, and a big dog rushed out when the door opens. Xiang Daofa's son and his friends also alighted from the car. They seem to be around his age, in their twenties.

"Renjie, why are you bringing your dog everywhere you go?"

"That's right. I am scared of your dog. Can you keep it on a leash?"

Xiang Renjie nonchalantly replied. "What leash?! How is it considered walking the dog if it is on a leash?"

Another university student asked. "What if your dog bites others?"

"So be it." Another guy laughed and said softly. "His father is the Party Secretary. Do you think he is afraid of Da Huang biting others? That person is just unlucky to be bitten, as there is nothing he can do."

Xiang Renjie laughed. "Alright. You all go ahead first. My father is coming back, and I must go back for lunch."

This dog is the Xiang family's treasure. They had kept it for around seven years and had bitten others before. The relevant authority has the power to investigate and take away the dog, but who dares to take away the Party Secretary's dog? Even when big dogs are not allowed in the quarters, and all dogs must be leashed within the compound, no one dares to voice it. Xiang Daofa is the No. 1 in Yan Tai County!

Dong Xuebing's Santana passed by them and overheard their conversation. He is furious when he saw that dog staring at him without a leash. Damn! Blame the luck of the person who got bitten? You are too arrogant! Do you think Yan Tai County is your family's backyard?! Useless brat. You refused to listen to me when I asked you to leash your dog this morning? Fine! I will enforce justice on behalf of heaven!

Dong Xuebing suddenly has an evil plan in his mind!

Report chapter Comments

Chapter 467 – Secretary Xiang is bitten!

Noon.

County Party Committee Family Quarters. Dong Xuebing parked his car at his apartment building but did not alight.

Xiang Renjie and his ugly dog had bid farewell to his friends and are walking into quarters. At around the same time, Hu Silian noticed Dong Xuebing's car and quickly walked to him after locking her electric bike.

Dong Xuebing is plotting how to get back at Xiang Daofa and does not want to be exposed. He immediately calls Hu Silian with his mobile phone.

Ring... ring... Hu Silian took out her phone and was surprised to see Dong Xuebing's number. She looked in Dong Xuebing's direction and answered. "Hello?"

"Sister Hu, do me a favor."

"Xuebing, what are you trying to do? Don't..."

"I know. Err... can you see Xiang Renjie? He seems to be going home. Please help me to stall him for a while. Just find a random topic to chat with him and stop him from going upstairs."

"Stall him? What do you mean?"

"Just stall him for a while."

Hu Silian asked. "What are you going to do? Can you tell me first? Mayor Xie will scold me if anything happens. Xuebing, we have known each other for almost two years. Don't get me into trouble." A secretary's job is not easy. She has her work and still must do things for her Leader's family, especially if the Leader has a relative like Chief Dong.

"I will not get you into trouble. Just go, please."

Hu Silian had no choice, and she hung up. She turned and called out to Xiang Renjie. "Are you Renjie?"

Xiang Renjie stopped and looked at Hu Silian. "Who are you?"

Hu Silian smiles. "I am Hu Silian. Mayor Xie's secretary."

Xiang Renjie frowned. Even if he does not know a lot about politics, he knows who his father's rival is. He heard that Xie Huilan had brought lots of trouble to his father after transferring to Yan Tai County. He does not like Hu Silian immediately. "Oh... I know you. You are previously from the Public Security Bureau, right? What is it?"

The big yellow dog will bark at everyone. When Hu Silian came closer, he immediately rushes out and starts growling and barking at her.

Hu Silian got a fright and took two steps back.

The dog chased after her. "Grr... Woof! Woof!"

Most owners will stop their dogs in such a scenario, but Xiang Renjie did not. He stood there with a smile as he watched his dog barking and pouncing towards Hu Silian.

Hu Silian is looking terrible. What is the meaning of this? Are you asking your dog to bite me?

After letting his dog scare Hu Silian for a while, Xiang Renjie laughed and shouted. "Da Huang! Come back!"

Xiang Renjie is feeling good after teaching Mayor Xie's staff a lesson.

Although Hu Silian is angry, she will not argue with a kid.

Dong Xuebing is furious. If it were in the past, he would have rushed over and kicked that dog to death. But he had gotten matured after so many things, and he suppressed his anger.

Suddenly, a County Party Committee vehicle entered the quarters.

It is Xiang Daofa's car! He is here!

All the grudges resurfaced in Dong Xuebing's mind. After he was transferred to Yan Tai County, he had never done anything wrong to Xiang Daofa. If he had not found those photographs, the former Party Secretary Chang would not be removed. Xiang Daofa might not even be the Party Secretary after three years. Dong Xuebing had also made significant results when he was in the Public Security Bureau and the Investment Promotion Agency. Xiang Daofa benefited from it. But in return, he tried to backstab Dong Xuebing several times, snatch his credits and remove him from his position. Who can stand such an ungrateful person?!

Dong Xuebing narrowed his eyes and watched them. Xiang Daofa's car stopped in front of the building, and he descended.

Xiang Daofa is in a good mood today. His son, who had left after throwing a tantrum, had returned, and the person in charge of the investment fair had been changed to his man. Xiang Renjie's back is facing his father when he talks to Hu Silian and does not see him. But the ugly dog saw him and ran over, without Xiang Renjie or anyone noticing him.

Dong Xuebing has been waiting for this moment. He thought to himself. "It's not so easy to take away my power!"

There is a price to pay for doing these to me!

STOP!

Time stopped! Sparrows were flying across the sky, the breeze, and all noises stopped.

After buying the lottery, Dong Xuebing doesn't have much time remaining and doesn't want to waste it. He immediately alighted from his car and ran over to that drooling dog. He smiled and carried it over to Xiang Daofa, who had just alighted. He positioned the dog behind Xiang Daofa and pried open its mouth. After that, he clamped the dog's jaws on Xiang Daofa's calf.

This is the family quarters, and many people are around.

Dong Xuebing is worried others might notice the dog's awkward position. He purposely positioned the dog in a position that will be blocked by Xiang Daofa's car.

Everything is ready!

Dong Xuebing quickly ran back to his Santana and mumbled STOP!

...

...

Time resumed!

Suddenly, there is a loud cry. Xiang Daofa shouted out in pain. "Arrrhh..."

Xiang Daofa's shout attracted many people's attention. Xiang Renjie and Hu Silian turned towards that direction, and many people opened their windows to see what happened. Everyone is shocked by what they saw. Damn! Secretary Xiang is bitten by a dog!

Only Dong Xuebing can come up with this evil plan to let Xiang Daofa get bitten by his ferocious dog, and he is the only person who can do that.

Xiang Daofa is stunned. Da Huang is his family's precious pet, and he had treated him like his own son. He looked down after he felt the piercing pain around his ankle and saw Da Huang biting him. This is unbelievable, and he instinctively kicked him away. But it was too late as blood is already flowing down his socks.

"Dad!"

"Secretary Xiang!"

Xiang Renjie and other staff staying in the quarters are shocked.

Xiang Daofa is in pain, as it was a powerful bite!

Dogs will turn aggressive when triggered, and they will not care about how well you had treated them in the past. Da Huang is currently in this state of mind after Xiang Daofa kicked him. It immediately growled and pounced onto his leg to try to bite him!

"Da Huang! Come back!" Xiang Renjie shouted as he ran over.

Dong Xuebing is overjoyed as Xiang Daofa is having a taste of his own medicine.

Dong Xuebing knew this would happen, and he is much faster than Xiang Renjie. He immediately got out of his car and ran over. "Secretary Xiang! Be careful!"

Xiang Daofa is furious. "Da Huang! What are you doing?!"

"Grrrr!" Da Huang growled and opened its jaws!

Dong Xuebing rushed over and was about to kick Da Huang as if he is taking a penalty shot. "Stupid dog! How dare you bite Secretary Xiang?!"

"Stop!" Xiang Daofa shouted at Dong Xuebing!

Will Dong Xuebing listen to Xiang Daofa and stop? Impossible! His kick had already landed on that ferocious dog. Bam! Da Huang flew more than two meters away from the impact and laid there twitching. It's too late to save him. Everyone knows about Dong Xuebing's combat skills, and even a grown man cannot take his kick, let alone a dog.

"Da Huang!" Xiang Renjie's eyes were all red when he reached.

Dong Xuebing gave Xiang Renjie a stare. "To hell with Da Huang! Your dog bites your father, and you only care about it instead of your father?! What kind of son are you?! Ah?!"

Xiang Daofa shouted furiously. "Dong Xuebing! What are you doing?!" He cannot control his temper after seeing his beloved pet kicked to death in front of him by Dong Xuebing.

Xiang Renjie screamed. "Who ask you to touch Da Huang?! Ah?! Da Huang!" He is very close to his dog.

Dong Xuebing is laughing in his heart. "Secretary Xiang, that ferocious dog is biting you, and I had come over to save you. What have I done wrong?! I know you dislike me, but this... Fine! Just treat it as I am a busybody! I should not have interfered, and I am asking for it!" He took out his wallet and took out a stack of notes which is more than 2 thousand RMB, and threw it on the floor. "This is the money for your dog! I am compensating your dog now!"

After throwing the money on the floor, Dong Xuebing stormed into the building!

Dong Xuebing has a way with words. Many people in the Quarters had him and thought to themselves.

What Chief Dong did is not wrong and is even honorable!

Xiang Daofa had just taken away Xiao Dong's position as the Leader of the investment fair. Yet Xiao Dong still goes and rescues him from that dog. But he was blamed for what he did by that father and son, and he still must compensate for that dog. How can they do this? Even if Xiao Dong's kick is too powerful, but what can he do? He can't reason with a crazy dog. Do you think that aggressive dogs will stop biting after you tell it about socialist ideologies?

Report chapter Comments

Chapter 468 – The abnormal Xiang Daofa

County Party Committee Family Quarters.

Da Huang was kicked to death by Dong Xuebing, and Xiang Daofa's leg is still bleeding. He looks pathetic.

But after the people heard Secretary Xiang shouting at Xiao Dong, even those who had not interacted with him got mad. Xiao Dong had saved you from that dog and got a scolding from you instead. Does he still have to compensate for that dog?! Is this how a Party Committee Secretary behaves? This is too disappointing. Some even remembered what happened previously. For example, Xiang Daofa can become the Party Secretary because Xiao Dong had found the photographs that brought down the previous Party Secretary. Xiao Dong had just shown some results at the Investment Promotion Agency, and Secretary Xiang snatched his credit. Now, Xiao Dong had saved him from the dog and still got a scolding. Many people had started to question Xiang Daofa's character.

Just because Xiao Dong had arrested one of your relatives for breaking the law, you bear grudges for so long? You are too narrow-minded.

Even the staff on Xiang Daofa's faction started to question themselves if it is worth supporting him. They might end up like Chief Dong after showing some results. Instead of being thankful, Xiang Daofa might hate pinned some blame on them.

"Secretary Xiang, are you alright?"

"Hurry and get into the car. I will send you to the hospital."

Xiang Daofa's driver and some staff rushed over.

Xiang Renjie was about to cry. "Dad, Da Huang..."

Someone frowned and thought to themselves. What Xiao Dong scolded is right. Your dog bites your father, and instead of showing concern for your father, you are still thinking about your dog? What son are you?

"Enough! Go home now!" Xiang Daofa shouted at his son.

Xiang Daofa regretted after scolding Xiao Dong. He knew he had gone overboard, but that is because of his love for Da Huang. Seeing Da Huang being kicked is like seeing his son being kicked. Furthermore, it was Dong Xuebing who kicked him. He had always hated Dong Xuebing and lost his head earlier.

Xiang Daofa should not have scolded Dong Xuebing!

This is not how a County Party Secretary should behave!

Xiang Daofa doesn't care what Dong Xuebing thinks, but he must note how others see him. Dong Xuebing had saved him from the dog, and no matter how he felt at that time, he must thank him and not scold him. That is what a County Party Secretary should do. Scolding Dong Xuebing will make him look bad, especially after what Dong Xuebing said. Dong Xuebing had pointed out that Xiang Daofa dislikes him and still compensated him for the dog.

This is telling everyone that Xiang Daofa is ungrateful and unreasonable.

Everyone will see Xiang Daofa as someone narrowminded and bear grudges.

This move is too evil, and Xiang Daofa must not accept the compensation. If not, how will others see him? Dong Xuebing had put him on the spot, and he even suspects this is purpose planned against him!

Suppose Dong Xuebing had explained himself that he was trying to save Xiang Daofa after getting scolded. In that case, he might regain his senses and thanked him. But Dong Xuebing did not explain himself. He used Xiang Daofa's words to blow it up and left after leaving a stack of cash. This resulted in Xiang Daofa unable to salvage the situation!

This is putting him in a difficult situation!

It's too evil!

Xiang Daofa's wife ran out of the building towards him. "Old Xiang! Where are you hurt?"

"I'm fine." Xiang Daofa looked at the dead Da Huang and took a deep breath to calm himself. He turned to his wife. "Da Huang has been with us for a few years, and I had never expected him to turn aggressive suddenly. Sigh..." He pointed to the money on the floor and told his wife. "Return the money to Xiao Dong and help me thank him." Although it's too late to say this, he still must say it.

"Dad!" Xiang Renjie refused to accept this. Why should they still thank the guy who killed Da Huang?

"Go home!" Xiang Daofa shouted at his son.

Xiang Daofa's wife nodded and picked up the money after he left. She turns to Hu Silian. "Secretary Hu, do you know which unit is Xiao Dong staying in?"

...

Ten minutes later.

Dong Xuebing's apartment.

Hu Silian knocked and entered. "Has Secretary Xiang's wife return?"

"She had just left. Haha..." Dong Xuebing stepped aside for her to enter. "Sister Hu, come in. What type of tea do you like?"

Hu Silian noticed a stack of cash on the coffee table and laughed. "Chief Dong, I am impressed. How did you make that big dog attack, Secretary Xiang? Why did that dog listen to you?"

Dong Xuebing denied it. "How is it possible? Who will expect it to turn aggressive suddenly?"

"Turn aggressive suddenly?!"

Hu Silian doesn't believe Dong Xuebing, as she knows him well. He was the one who asked her to stall Xiang Renjie from going upstairs, and his purpose should be to let the dog wait until Secretary Xiang to arrive. This is all planned! She is very impressed with Chief Dong's ability to deal with those who had provoked him.

Afternoon.

Dong Xuebing packed his belongings and was about to return to the hospital when Xie Huilan called.

"Secretary Xiang is bitten by a dog?" Xie Huilan paused for a second and continued. "I heard you had saved him and got scolded by him in return."

"That's right." Dong Xuebing replied angrily. "What type of character is he? But he asked his wife to thank me later."

"It will not be easy to remove this blemish, and his reputation will be affected. He had targeted you several times, and you even saved him from the dog. This is not the standard of a Party Secretary. Haha... I had just reprimanded you this morning, and you become smarter."

Dong Xuebing laughed. "Sister Xie, I had moved up from a staff member and had experienced lots of things in the past two years. I admit my political wisdom is not high, but it is not as low as others think."

Xiang Daofa is bitten by his pet dog.

That ferocious dog was also killed by Dong Xuebing using this opportunity.

Xiang Daofa had said the wrong things, and Dong Xuebing had finally gross him out this time. He is satisfied with how things turn out.

How can someone who provoked me so many times not pay for it?

Report chapter Comments

Chapter 469 – Just wait and watch

Evening.

County People's Hospital, fourth level.

Dong Xuebing is flipping a book about economics on the bed. He has nothing to do after creating trouble for Xiang Daofa and can only wait for the situation to change in his ward.

Ring... ring... ring... Dong Xuebing's phone rang.

"Hello, Chief Dong? I'm Park Yongxi."

"Oh, Master Park. How are you?"

"A Chief Jia had contacted me earlier and talked to me about the investment fair. I heard that the person in charge of the fair is changed." Dong Xuebing had spoken to Park Yongxi about the investment fair and even settled some details. That's why Park Yongxi felt it's weird when someone who claims to be the person in charge of the investment fair contacted him. "You are not in charge of the investment fair anymore?"

Dong Xuebing sighed. "Something happened, and I am temporary not in charge of getting investment for the County."

"What happened?"

"This is the arrangement decided by the higher-ups. Haha... I also have no choice."

Park Yongxi paused for a few seconds and sighed. "I heard the politics here is very complicated, and it seems it is even worse than I thought." He had heard about the political situation in China and understood the structure well. That's why he could guess what happened after speaking to Dong Xuebing.

Dong Xuebing is feeling frustrated over what happened.

After chatting for a while, Park Yongxi said. "Alright. I will speak to Chief Jia regarding my integrated sports complex. Take care, and let's have a friendly match after you are discharged."

"Sure."

After hanging up, Dong Xuebing looks out of the window towards the Investment Promotion Agency direction. Although he had gotten back at Xiang Daofa this afternoon, that's not the end. Bitten by a dog?! Killing his pet dog?! He had done these to vent his anger. How can these small incidents be compared to the credits of getting a project worth 100 million and organizing the investment fair?

Knock... knock...

Dong Xuebing turns towards the door. "Come in."

Luo Haiting, Guo Panwei, and Lin Pingping entered with fruits. "Chief."

The three of them looked worried, and Luo Haiting did not doll herself up today. She seemed to have changed before coming.

"Didn't I ask you all not to visit?" Dong Xuebing laughed. "You all still brought fruits? Thank you. Have a seat."

"Your health..."

"It's the same issue about my heart. Thanks for your concern."

Everyone knows Dong Xuebing was hospitalized not because of his health reason. They talked about his health for a while, and they looked at each other. Luo Haiting said. "Chief, the County Party Committee is too much. They are creating problems for our Agency by doing this. Our Agency had just started to show some results, and they let someone who doesn't know about our County to run the investment fair. Are they trying to see us fail? I am frustrated! Secretary Xiang had wanted us to increase the County's investments this year! Is this the way to do that?! He is just creating more problems for us!"

Guo Panwei added. "You are the one who had gotten Master Park's project, and Jia Yan can get the credit without doing anything! This is too unreasonable!"

"Deputy Chief Jia's standard is also not that good." Lin Pingping grumbled. "I don't think he can take on this role well."

The three of them are angry.

It's not right for them to talk about or question the County Party Secretary and the Party Committee decision. But this is their way of showing their loyalty towards Dong Xuebing. The current situation is not in Dong Xuebing's favor, as his authority and credit are taken away. Who knows if Jia Yan will replace Dong Xuebing after the former got the credit for the investment fair? With the Party Secretary bearing grudges against Dong Xuebing, it might be possible.

Dong Xuebing is touched by what they said.

Luo Haiting looks at Dong Xuebing. "It will be hard for us to continue without your leadership. That Deputy Chief Jia had come in this afternoon and started giving out orders without knowing anything. Sigh..."

"Chief." Lin Pingping looks at Dong Xuebing. "I am feeling unwell these few days. Should I..."

Dong Xuebing finally knows what these three wanted and is touched. "I am hospitalized because I have no choice. You all should not do this."

Guo Panwei replied unhappily. "But this is too..."

Dong Xuebing waved his hand. "Sister Luo, Sister Lin, and Panwei. I know how you all feel, but you all must not do this. The organization had asked me to step aside, and we must abide by the orders. We must not go against the organization's decision. During the investment fair period, you all must give your support to Chief Jia. Even if you all are mad or have other ideas, keep them to yourself. Don't bring your emotions to work."

This is not because Dong Xuebing is great. It is because he has no choice.

If everyone in the Agency refused to work with Jia Yan, the investment fair will fail and will be escalated. It will not be going against Jia Yan and Xiang Daofa. It will be going against Yan Tai County, including Xie Huilan, as she is named the main organizer of this investment fair. If Dong Xuebing asks his subordinates to do this, then he will be accused of not thinking of the bigger picture. Luo Haiting, Lin Pingping, and Guo Panwei, including him, will be penalized. Xiang Daofa will have an opportunity to find fault with him.

"Chief..."

"Just listen to me. Continue with your work. This period is crucial for the investment fair, and don't let others get hold against you all."

Guo Panwei thought for a while and nodded.

Suddenly, someone knocked on the door three times.

The door opened, and a man in his thirties entered. He has short hair and a high nose bridge. He walked into the ward confidently and looked at Dong Xuebing. "Are you Chief Dong? I am Jia Yan. I am here to report to you. Oh, Director Luo, Chief Lin, you all are also here?" He has a casual tone and doesn't sound respectful.

Guo Panwei frowned. He is unhappy with the way Jia Yan speaks to Chief Dong.

Lin Pingping also frowned as she looks at the empty-handed Jia Yan. Chief Dong is hospitalized, and you come visiting empty-handed? This attitude is wrong.

Jia Yan ignored the rest and stood there.

Is this guy Jia Yan?

This is the guy picked by Xiang Daofa?

Dong Xuebing looked at him and smiled. "So, you are Chief Jia? Nice to meet you. I heard about your performance in the City's Investment Promotion Agency, and you had participated in two investment fairs before. No wonder you are picked by Secretary Xiang. I can tell you are an expert in getting investment. I am relieved to have you take over the investment fair. Do your best."

Jia Yan knows Dong Xuebing does not mean what he said. Suppose his performance in the City Investment Promotion Agency is outstanding. Why would he be transferred to Yan Tai County as the Deputy Agency Chief? He had been stagnant in position as the Deputy Office Director in the City Investment Promotion Agency for five years! Although he had participated in two investment fairs, what can a Deputy Office Director do other than photocopying promotion materials and following the higher-up's orders?

Jia Yan is not surprised with what Dong Xuebing said in their first meeting and maintained a smile on his face.

Jia Yan was transferred to Yan Tai County by Secretary Xiang to snatch Dong Xuebing's credit. He does not care about Dong Xuebing's attitude towards him and just needs to do what Secretary Xiang asked him to do. With Secretary Xiang as his backing, he is confident he can suppress his direct superior, Dong Xuebing.

Steal Dong Xuebing's credit?

Jia Yan will not only steal Dong Xuebing's credit. He will also try to create friction between Dong Xuebing and his men and form his clique to challenge Dong Xuebing's position. If everything goes according to plan, he can easily replace Dong Xuebing.

There's nothing more to say to Dong Xuebing.

Jia Yan chatted for a few more minutes and said. "I still have lots of work to do for the investment fair. Chief Dong, please take care of your health, and I will visit you another day."

After Jia Yan left, Dong Xuebing also asked Luo Haiting, Guo Panwei, and Lin Pingping to leave.

Dong Xuebing narrowed his eyes and called Xie Huilan. "Hello, Huilan? I had just met Jia Yan. He has a poor attitude and has no respect for me after stealing my credit. No wonder he is stuck as the Deputy Office Director for so many years. What a snob! I can tell from his attitude he is trying to stir up trouble and is eyeing my position now."

"I also want to see how long can he last."

"I had just instructed my subordinates to carry on with their work and support Jia Yan to prevent any problem with this investment fair. Did I do the right thing?"

"Of course. Haha... this is what you should do." Xie Huilan laughed. "The net is cast, and the stage is prepared. Since Secretary Xiang thinks Jia Yan can put up a good performance, I shall give him my support. You just sit back and watch the show."

Report chapter Comments

Chapter 470 – Things are proceeding so smoothly?

Next day. Morning.

Jia Yan received a call from Xiang Daofa when he was entered the Investment Promotion Agency.

"Uncle Xiang. How's your leg?"

"It's a minor injury, and I am fine. How's your progress?"

"It's alright. I had familiarized myself with the work here and will start contacting the investors today."

"Good. The whole County will be watching this investment fair, and you must do a good job."

"Don't worry. I will surely complete this task."

Jia Yan got to know Xiang Daofa through his father. Secretary Xiang and his father are from the same generation, and he must address him as Uncle Xiang. He has always wanted to suck up to this Party Secretary, and that's why he dares to guarantee he will complete this task well. How is it possible the investment fair will fail with him as the leader? Not only him, even Xiang Daofa and other leaders don't think the investment fair will fail.

A 100 million RMB project is almost confirmed. Jia Yan only needs to get tens or up to one hundred investors to participate. Even if they sign contracts with two to three of them, the total investment from the fair will be at least 100 million RMB. The average investments for the past few years are only around 100 million RMB. This is the benefit of a poor County. One can easily get outstanding achievements. Someone picked by Xiang Daofa can achieve the same results within a few days compared to the previous few years.

This is a political achievement!

Dong Xuebing had prepared everything, and they only have to pluck the fruits of his labor!

After hanging up Secretary Xiang's call, Jia Yan smiled and lit a cigarette before calling the Office Department. "Director Luo, notify the rest of the department heads to my office for a meeting. That's all." He had chosen to hold the meeting in his office and not the meeting room is to establish his authority. He is telling everyone within the Agency that he is the person in charge of this investment fair. He loves this feeling of having the power to order others around.

A few minutes later.

Sun Shuli, Luo Haiting, and the rest entered Jia Yan's office.

Jia Yan looked at them and took a sip of tea.

When Dong Xuebing is around, Sun Shuli is the No. 2 in the Agency. But this new Deputy who suddenly parachuted into the Agency is holding more power than him. This is not a good feeling, and after seeing his attitude, he wonders how this guy will make this investment fair a success?

"Thank you for working hard these few days." Jia Yan smiled. "I am going to assign your tasks for the next few days. Old Sun, you will contact the investors. Not only you must invite the wealthy businessmen from our Province, and you must not forget about other regions. Contact our offsite offices to get them to contact investors to tell them about our investment fair. We must bring in investors from Beijing, Shanghai, and Guangzhou. If possible, we must also get foreign investors. According to the County's directives, we must invite at least one hundred investors."

One hundred?

Do you think it is so simple?

Sun Shuli, Luo Haiting, and the rest look at Jia Yan as an idiot, and no one said a word.

Jia Yan had participated in the City's investment fair, and that's a different level. He doesn't think it is hard to get one hundred investors. Even other Counties can easily get fifty to sixty participants for their investment fair. Furthermore, he also knows many businessmen, and can easily invite at least twenty of them. He felt that these invited investors don't need to invest as they are here to make up the numbers. Why would these investors not come? This is a free vacation to them, and food and lodging are provided. They have no obligations too.

Jia Yan felt superior after seeing everyone's reaction. "What's wrong?"

Sun Shuli did not hold back. "Old Jia, you are newly transferred over and might not understand the situation in Yan Tai County. It is very hard to find so many investors with just our Agency alone. Moreover, the investment fair is only a few days away, and I think we should get the County leaders to contact some investment groups."

Jia Yan frowned. Who are you to call me Old Yan? Jia Yan is only in his early thirties and is much younger than Sun Shuli. He felt disrespected by the way he is addressed. He is very sensitive to others ' attitudes for someone who had been stuck in the same position for five years and finally got an opportunity. "Old Sun, we must have confidence in our abilities and our County. I know our County's economy is not as good as other Counties. Still, we also have our advantages and can attract investors. I think the reason why our previous investment fairs failed is because of the scale. They were not grand, and the scale is not big enough. That's why some investors think our County is poor. I will raise the scale this time and create some activities like a cultural festival, or food festival, during this period. The investors can also participate in it, and we can use this opportunity to promote our homegrown products."

Jia Yan had thought for this plan a long time ago. Not only he needs to get credit for Secretary Xiang and wrestle control over the Agency from Xie Huilan, but he also needs to get some credits for himself. That's why he wants to increase the investment fair's scale and make it a success, as all these will be written into his resume.

Luo Haiting is speechless. "Chief Jia, are we going to increase the scale of this fair further?"

Sun Shuli disagreed. "The County has already approved everything, and we don't have the time to make further changes."

"We don't need to hold any festivals. Those are just examples." Jia Yan is very confident. "We can make changes in other areas and let investors feel the need to invest in our County."

Luo Haiting replied. "Our County's finance is quite tight, and Mayor Xie had just approved two million RMB to us a few days ago."

Jia Yan casually replied. "We must not be afraid of spending if we want to make this investment fair a success. The County is taking a serious view on this fair, and we must make it perfect. If we can attract more investments, we can recover everything from their taxes and even get back several times more."

"But..."

"Director Luo, take note of the finances and try to get the funds in."

Luo Haiting is frustrated. Do you think it is so easy to get money? Why don't you tell this to Mayor Zhao and Mayor Xie yourself? Where am I going to get the money from?

Jia Yan issued a few more orders and asked them to leave. He continues to relax and enjoys his tea in his office.

Outside.

Luo Haiting, Lin Pinging, and the rest walked down the stairs.

Sun Shuli grumbled. "He made it sound nicer than singing!"

Jiang Hailiang added. "Chief Jia had thought too highly of himself. One hundred investors?! How are we going to find them? Even twenty investors is a lot to me!"

Lin Pingping also voiced her displeasure. "He does not know about the situation and thought our jobs are easy."

All of them are furious with Jia Yan's over-optimistic views. No one likes someone like Jia Yan, who steals other's credit without doing anything. Only the staff within the Agency know about the actual situation. Even Zhao Xinglong, who is in charge of the County's investments, Xiang Daofa, and other County leaders, are not as clear about the Agency's work. The Investment Promotion Agency is easy? How is it possible? It seems that everyone in the County thinks the Agency's job is easy.

Bullshit!

Although it might seem glamorous, the Agency is still the same as in previous years!

Others can only see the Investment Promotion Agency had achieved some results. Still, only Sun Shuli, Luo Haiting, and the rest know the reason for it. It is not because Yan Tai County's economic environment had improved, or the Agency's work had become easier. It is all because of Dong Xuebing's crazily strong capabilities. Mr. Liang had decided to invest in Yan Tai County because Chief Dong had risked his life to drink three bottles of alcohol. Master Park's investment is also because of Chief Dong bringing him back to the County. All these have nothing to do with the Agency or the economic environment. It is all because of their Agency Chief.

It seems that everyone had forgotten about this!

...

Before noon.

Jia Yan is worried the County Government is unwilling to give the Agency money, and he called Xiang Daofa to ask him about it. But the reply from him gave Jia Yan a shock.

The County Government had agreed to give him the funds.

There are no delays or obstruction, and the three million Jia Yan requested was transferred to the Agency's account immediately. He thought the Agency staff would refuse to listen to his orders, but this is not the case. Luo Haiting, Sun Shuli, and the rest are all cooperative and continued with their work.

How come everything is proceeding so smoothly?

Jia Yan couldn't believe his eyes. It is too easy to get this credit.

Even Xiang Daofa and other leaders within the County are surprised when they heard the County Government had approved the funds.

What is Mayor Xie trying to do?

The Mayor had strongly opposed Jia Yan taking over Dong Xuebing's duties and had raised her objections during the committee meeting. Why is she cooperating with Jia Yan now? She is giving in to his demands for more funds and manpower now. Is she putting aside her rivalry for the County's economic growth?

Many people are confused by Mayor Xie's actions and wondered what she is thinking.

Xiang Daofa knows his rival well and felt Xie Huilan is plotting something. He frowned and called Jia Yan to remind him again not to overlook anything, and there must not be any problems with this fair.

Jia Yan thought to himself. The credit will be mine, and what can go wrong?

Report chapter Comments

Chapter 471 – The Investment Promotion Agency is in trouble!

One day passed.

Two days passed.

As 1st May, Labor Day is approaching, problems start to surface in the Investment Promotion Agency, and it's more than one problem!

Jia Yan, Sun Shuli, Luo Haiting, and the rest are looking terrible in the smaller meeting room. Jia Yan is the worst among them.

"Have you all confirm the total number of participants for the investment fair?"

"About 17 investors have confirmed they will be attending."

"Only 17?! Old Sun! What are you doing? Ah?! Why are there so few participants?! Tell me!" Jia Yan is furious.

Sun Shuli replied. "I had told you before. Yan Tai County is different from other Counties!"

Jia Yan banged on the table. "You are shirking responsibility!"

Everyone got mad when they heard this.

Shirking responsibility? You are the person in charge of this investment fair, and we are just following your orders! We had followed your instructions, and you want us to take responsibility when problems occur?! Why didn't you say anything when you come here to snatch credits?! You want to claim credit and let your subordinates take responsibility when something happens?! Can you be a bit more responsible?!

"Chief Jia, what are you saying?!" Sun Shuli is furious. "I had told you that it is impossible to get 100 investors and suggested to you to get the County Leaders to contact investment groups. This is not because I had not done my work or shirking responsibility. This is our County's situation. Have you counted the number of participants in our previous investment fairs?! The average is only 20 people! It is the same every year, and this is the reason why we have not organized investment fairs for the past two years!"

Luo Haiting gave Jia Yan a side glance. "100 participants are impossible. When Chief Dong was around, he had set the target at 30 to 40 people."

Jiang Hailiang added. "We must also discount the 17 participants. From previous experiences, some of them might not turn up."

All these investors are busy, and they might change their plans last minute.

If something crops up in their company, they will not come. It's not surprising to see only seven to eight people turn up for the fair.

Among the 17 participants, ten are invited by the Agency. Five are invited by Mayor Zhao, Mayor Xie, and other County Government Leaders. Only two of them are invited by Jia Yan.

Jia Yan had not expected this result and did not know Yan Tai County's situation is like this. He doesn't even need to persuade investors to attend the city's investment fair with the City Investment Promotion Agency. Many investors will attend without invitations.

Jia Yan realized things are different in Yan Tai County. There is nothing here that can attract investors. Most of the replies he got when he called the investors is "I am busy on Labor's Day." The twenty-plus investors all shook their heads when they heard Yan Tai County. Even when lodging and meals are provided, they are unwilling to come to make up the numbers. They are businessmen, and their time is precious. Who cares about your lodging and meals? Only two of them, who is close with Jia Yan, agreed to attend.

Why is this happening?

Why is no one willing to come?

The investment fair is about to start, and they don't even have enough participants. Jia Yan is frustrated, and even Sun Shuli, Luo Haiting, and the rest feel helpless.

At this moment, Sun Shuli suddenly misses Dong Xuebing. Although Chief Dong likes to talk big and had made a bold statement on his first day, "If other Counties can attract hundreds of millions worth of investments, why can't we do it?!" But he can say this! Look at the total investments now. The confirmed 50 million RMB investment and the upcoming 100 million RMB project are all from Dong Xuebing. He dares to make these bold statements because he can achieve them.

But Jia Yan?!

He demanded 100 investors, and how many of them are going to turn up?!

Only 17! It will be a blessing if 10 of them turn up for the fair!

There will be only 10 participants at most, and Jia Yan had still asked for more funds for the investment fair to be grander. Just the venue at the hotel can hold 200 people. But now, only 10 participants will be turning up. With the County Government and Investment Promotion Agency's staff, there will only be around 20 plus people in the hotel ballroom. It will look too pathetic and will be an embarrassment to the County Leaders!

Is this going to be another 'much said but little done' investment fair?!

Jia Yan felt this investment fair is not what he imagined, and he took a deep breath before asking them to try to get more investors to attend the fair. He wants the whole Agency to start calling investors immediately. After they left the meeting room, he did not inform Xiang Daofa about the situation immediately. Instead, he called Park Yongxi to invite him for lunch.

Jia Yan's plan is simple. The Agency had spent so much money to increase the investment fair's scale, and he cannot answer to the County Government if there are only slightly more than a dozen participants. So, he decided to focus on the investment amount. Park Yongxi's investment is almost confirmed and what they need to do is to sign the contract. But there are some details like the total investment amount and other terms of the contract that still need to be discussed. Park Yongxi had only mentioned that he would be investing 60 to 100 million RMB, and Jia Yan wants to make sure he will invest 100 million RMB.

But another problem arises during this lunch.

At noon, Jia Yan went to the lunch appointment with the Agency's Deputy Office Director, Dan Enguo. Dan Enguo is Lui Dafa's trusted aide. He went over to Jia Yan's side after the latter took over. He felt this is the right move as Jia Yan is backed by the County Party Committee Secretary.

Park Yongxi did not turn up and sent his company's representative to discuss the investment details.

Jia Yan is disappointed as he wanted to befriend Park Yongxi. But since Park Yongxi is not around, he can only speak to the representative. He started talking about the investment and showed the representative the investment plan. He had increased the size of the investment site. He asked the Business Section to mark up the figures to ensure Park Yongxi's investment amount can reach 100 million RMB.

The representative straight forward. "We can agree to invest 100 million RMB, and the company is also willing to increase it by 10% further."

Terrific! Jia Yan started smiling.

Before Jia Yan can say anything, the representative added. "But we have a condition."

"What is it?" Jia Yan asked. "We are willing to provide subsidies within our means to assist your company."

The representative nodded. "It's like this. Mr. Park had asked me to tell you that we are happy with the policies and subsidies you all offered. But the taxes..."

"Taxes?" Jia Yan frowned.

"Yes. Your side is waiving three years of corporate tax. Still, the construction for our company's large scale integrated sports complex will take a longer time, and our profits will be slower. That's why we are asking for five years tax waiver. Also, we want you all to extend one more year for the value-added tax."

Jia Yan's face changed. "Impossible!"

The representative calmly replied. "I heard your County had offered other companies five years tax waiver before."

"That is for environmental and other special projects." Jia Yan explained. "For sports complex, three years tax waiver is the maximum we can offer. We will not even increase it by six months, let alone two years. Isn't this discussed with Master Park before?"

They are asking for too much!

Five years tax exemption?! Yan Tai County is not located in the western provinces. This project is not an environmental or any special project. "Our bottom line is two years tax waiver plus three years 50% waiver. This is the industry standard. Even if Yan Tai County agrees to offer five years tax waiver, the City Government will also disagree. We cannot set this precedent as this will harm our people's benefits. No one can bear the consequences!"

The representative replied. "I am not sure about the discussion between you and Mr. Park, but Mr. Park's instruction to me is we must get five years tax exemption. If your side is unable to give us this offer, we will not invest in your County. We cannot enter any loss-making business deal."

"You all are not going to invest?!" Dan Enguo is stunned. "Didn't you all confirm this investment with Chief Dong?"

Jia Yan is furious. "Are you all taking us for a ride?!"

The representative calmly replied. "Chief Dong and Mr. Park had only confirmed on the investment but have not talked about the details. We had signed the Letter of intent, and it is not considered a legal contract. We have no obligations to invest in your County. I hope you all can understand." It's not right for them to go back on their words, but the money belongs to them, and they have not signed any contracts yet. Park Yongxi still has the final say over this investment, and no one can stop him from leaving.

This sentence is like pouring a bucket of cold water over Jia Yan's head!

Secretary Xiang and Jia Yan are eyeing the credit of getting this 100 million RMB investment. This investment is supposed to be confirmed, as Secretary Xiang and Mayor Xie had checked with Park Yongxi over a meal. But...

Master Park had changed his mind?!

He is not going to invest!

Jia Yan knew the County Government would never agree to offer five years tax exemption, and he turned pale immediately!

The 100 million RMB project is gone?! This is adding oil to fire! Jia Yan still has not settled the investment fair participant problem, and the investment fair is only two days away!

Shit!

This fair is going to fail!

Report chapter Comments

Chapter 472 – Do you think you can order me around?!

The next morning.

There is no way to cover up what happened in the Investment Promotion Agency.

All the agencies and departments involved in the investment fair were anxious when they heard about it.

Xiang Daofa's face turned black when he heard this and immediately asked his secretary. Zhou Jun, to call Jia Yan to his office. Although Xie Huilan is named the head of this investment fair, she will be held responsible for the fair's failure. Still, he was the one who interfered and wanted Jia Yan to take over Dong Xuebing. Xie Huilan had opened opposition against this decision, and Xiang Daofa will have to bear most of the responsibility. He might even have to answer the City Government for this failure, which is not what he wants to see.

Xiang Daofa's office.

Jia Yan panicked. "Uncle Xiang, I..."

"What have you done?! Ah?! What is going on?!" Xiang Daofa banged on his desk.

"There are some minor issues with the investment fair." Jia Yan quickly explained. "But I will settle it soon."

"Small issues?! Park Yongxi is going to withdraw his investment, and you call that a small issue?!" Xiang Daofa got more furious. "The Investment Promotion Agency had only invited twenty investors, and you call that a small issue?! Then tell me what is not consider a small issue?! Ah?! Is this how you do your work?! You can't even do a simple task well!"

Xiang Daofa is someone who wants political achievements and credits. That's why when he saw the Investment Promotion Agency had shown some results, he immediately wants to take control of it and kick Xie Huilan's people away. But he had just realized that he had overlooked many things. It's not easy to get this credit, and this investment fair is similar to all their County's previous fairs!

Damn! Xie Huilan!

This is a setup!

Xiang Daofa finally found out about Xie Huilan's move. She knows the current situation might happen and openly oppose Jia Yan to replace Dong Xuebing during the Committee Meeting. This means she does not need to be held responsible for it because she had given Jia Yan all the support he needed after that. She had not interfered in the investment fair and even provided manpower and funds to him. This is not because she is thinking of the big picture. She is up to no good!

Xiang Daofa is furious over Jia Yan's incompetence and Xie Huilan's evil plot.

The investment fair will fail?!

Xiang Daofa had never thought of that happening. He and the other County Leaders had only noticed the Investment Promotion Agency had shown better results than previous years. The Agency had attracted 50 million RMB worth of investment this year, and Park Yongxi will invest in the County. Many people thought this is because the County's economy had improved and attracted investors. Not many people think this is because of Dong Xuebing's credit. After all, he had only become the Chief for three months.

No one had expected all these now!

It's not only one issue, but several issues are happening at once. Even Park Yongxi had canceled his investment!

Xiang Daofa thought about it. Xie Huilan does not mind a lose-lose situation to make him look bad?! She is even willing to give up this credit to go against him?! No. She should not do this. He immediately understands what Xie Huilan's motive is. She wants Xiao Dong to continue to lead the investment fair, and she has never given up on this fair!

Although Xiang Daofa knew Xie Huilan's motive, he cannot do anything about it because Jia Yan is too useless!

Xiang Daofa is looking more terrible. You want Xiao Dong to take charge again?! Xie Huilan! You are too naïve! I am the one who kicked Xiao Dong aside, and this is decided in the Party Committee Meeting. Do you think I will allow Xiao Dong to come back even if Jia Yan fails? Impossible! Even if this investment fair fails, I will also not do that! Xiang Daofa will never admit defeat against Xie Huilan. Even if Jia Yan screwed up and I am embarrassed, I will also not let you have your way! At most, we will all be embarrassed, and there is still time to salvage the situation.

"Uncle Xiang." Jia Yan looks at Xiang Daofa nervously. "It is impossible for us to allow five years tax exemption for Mr. Park. But I will try to speak to him again to get his investment. I had also contacted my friends to ask them to bring some investment groups over. If they can bring people over, there will be at least more than fifty people."

"Have they contacted those investors? Can they arrive tonight?"

Tomorrow is the investment fair's opening ceremony, and all the participants and investors should arrive at the hotel tonight.

"It's almost done, and I had sent cars to pick them." Jia Yan is unsure if any investment groups are coming, and he is only trying. But he had no choice now and had to lie to Xiang Daofa.

Xiang Daofa looks better after hearing this. "Park Yongxi's investment is very important, and you must get it!"

Jia Yan hesitated. "I will try my best, but... I am afraid someone is behind all these. Mr. Park had agreed to invest and suddenly changed his mind. Someone must be doing something behind our backs." Jia Yan had never felt this is his responsibility. Instead of reflecting on himself, he will push the blame to others. His first thought is Dong Xuebing is behind all these because he is the one who brought Park Yongxi back to Yan Tai County to invest. He never thought about why Park Yongxi had chosen to invest in Yan Tai County and just want to use this as an excuse to shirk responsibility.

...

Morning.

County's People Hospital.

Dong Xuebing leans against the restroom's window and lit a cigarette. Suddenly, a nurse enter.

"Chief Dong, you are not allowed to smoke in the hospital."

"Haha... just one stick... half a stick, ok?"

"No." The nurse firmly replied. "You are a patient now. Please listen to us."

Dong Xuebing cleared his throat. "Why are you always watching me? There are so many patients here. Fine... fine... I will stop smoking."

Dong Xuebing does not know that Xie Huilan had called the hospital's Director and asked him to give Dong Xuebing a thorough checkup. The Mayor's boyfriend is a VIP, and the Director must pay special attention to him. He immediately assigns a nurse to watch Dong Xuebing and don't allow him to smoke or leave the hospital grounds. The nurse even has to watch him swallow all his medications.

Ring... ring... ring... Dong Xuebing's phone rang.

Dong Xuebing snubbed his cigarette and waited for the nurse to leave. After she left, he secretly lit another cigarette and answered the call.

It is Zhao Xinglong.

Zhao Xinglong asked about Dong Xuebing's health and said. "Have you heard about Master Park's investment? He is going to withdraw his investment."

"Really?" Dong Xuebing had heard there are some issues, but he does not know about the details. "Didn't we finalize everything? What happened?"

"Master Park is asking for five years tax exemption, and the County Government cannot agree to it."

Dong Xuebing frowned. "Is he going to cancel his investment?"

"Chief Jia is still negotiating with him, and we are waiting for the outcome. Xiao Dong, you are the one who gotten Master Park's investment. Secretary Xiang had ordered you to call Master Park to stop him from withdrawing his investment."

Dong Xuebing laughed. "Mayor Zhao, I will be direct with you. Did Secretary Xiang suddenly remember that I was the one who gotten Park Yongxi's investment? He had kicked me aside as the leader of the investment fair and still wants me to do things for him?! Even if I am a forgiving person, I am not that forgiving! What is he thinking? He is the one who wanted Jia Yan to take charge of the investment fair. What has it got to do with me now?"

This Xiang Daofa is too shameless!

Do you think you can order me around and kick me aside when I am no use to you?

You had taken away my authority and my credit, and I am already hospitalized. Yet you still want me to clean your ass, and let you all get the credit? What's next? After I retain Park Yongxi's investment, Jia Yan and you will get the credit and kick me aside again?! Damn! Do you think I am an idiot?!

Zhao Xinglong knew Dong Xuebing is unhappy, but he still must convey Xiang Daofa's orders. "This period is critical to our County, and you are the Agency's Chief..."

Dong Xuebing is furious. "Is Xiang Daofa and the rest suspecting me of asking Master Park to cancel his investment?"

"... I can tell he is implying this." Zhao Xinglong replied.

Dong Xuebing got more furious. "Mayor Zhao, you should know me well. Am I the type of person who will ask Master Park to cancel his investment because I got replaced? Furthermore, investors have their own plans, and they will invest because of our County's environment. Who will want to lose money? Also, why would others listen to me?!"

"I know." Zhao Xinglong understands Dong Xuebing well, and he believes he has nothing to do with this.

"Am I supposed to be blamed for Jia Yan's incompetence, and Secretary Xiang chose the wrong person? Oh, they will get the credit, and I will have to bear the responsibility when they fail?! Damn!"

This group of bastards!

Chapter 473 – Jia Yan is hospitalized!

In the ward.

After hanging up with Mayor Zhao, Dong Xuebing called Guo Panwei to ask about the details. He immediately got mad after knowing what happened. He had not contacted Park Yongxi, and Jia Yan is a good-for-nothing. This credit is almost given to him and Xiang Daofa for free, and instead of getting it, they even screw it up. Yet they still want him to help them?

Dream on!

They should not have treated me this way in the first place!

You all had kicked me aside to steal my credit, and when you all realized you would had screwed up, and you want me to bear the responsibility? Go to hell!

Although Dong Xuebing knew Park Yongxi's not investing will not benefit him, and he might even be held responsible for it. However, he still wants to boast about it. You, Xiang Daofa, like to find trouble with me? Carry on! Anyway, I am not leading the investment fair, and we can all suffer together. Xie Huilan had opposed to Jia Yan replacing me. If the higher-ups are going to pursue this, we will not be held responsible.

Dong Xuebing is prepared to sit back and watch everything unfolds. He could roughly guess Xie Huilan's plan, and she should have predicted this to happen. But having a lose-lose situation will not benefit either party. She is doing these to let Dong Xuebing regain control over the investment fair. But will Xiang Daofa agree? Impossible!

One hour...

Three hours...

Five hours...

Office hours are over.

Jia Yan, Sun Shuli, Luo Haiting, and the rest of the Agency's Leaders are waiting in Xiang Yi Hotel's lobby. Jia Yan looks terrible after negotiating with Park Yongxi's representative the whole day and not making any progress. Some County Government staff are setting up the venue. At around 6 pm, Deputy Mayor Zhao Xinglong had arrived to welcome the investors.

At around 6.15 pm, Lin Pingping arrived with the first investor. She had driven the investor over.

Jia Yan, and the rest, quickly walk over to welcome him.

After a while, the second investor arrived. He had driven himself, and everyone welcomed him warmly and started to arrange the lodging for him.

But after the second investor arrived, no other investors arrive for the next 30 minutes. A few more investors arrive later, and there are only six investors in total. When Zhao Xinglong looked at Jia Yan and was about to shout at him, Jia Yan's phone rang. He looked at the number and quickly answered. But almost immediately, he falls into a daze.

The person on the other line told Jia Yan that the investment group would not be coming.

Everyone is speechless. Although they know this will happen, no one had expected it to be so bad!

Six people!

There are only 6 participants for this investment fair!

Although there might be investors arriving later, there might also be investors not turning up. Nevertheless, there will not be many people attending tomorrow's opening ceremony!

They can imagine the County Government staff waiting to welcome the investors, reporters, and TV station staff with their cameras at the venue tomorrow. The County's leaders speak on the stage, and there are... only six investors in the huge ballroom! Only six! This is a disgrace!

"Chief Jia!" Zhao Xinglong could not hold back his anger. "Is this how you do your job?!"

Sun Shuli, Luo Haiting, and the rest are also furious. If Jia Yan had taken his words seriously, there might be a few dozen investors. But it's too late to do anything now. The opening ceremony is tomorrow, and there are only six participants! What are they going to do now?

Jia Yan felt wronged. He felt this is not his fault, and it is because Yan Tai County's conditions are too unattractive to the investors.

Ring... ring... ring... Jia Yan's phone rang again.

Jia Yan answered and suddenly looks better. He immediately rushed out of the hotel and got into a taxi.

The rest of the Agency staff were stunned and looked at each other, not knowing what to do.

News of the poor attendance had spread, and Xiang Daofa, Xie Huilan, and Cao Xupeng arrived at the hotel one hour later.

Xiang Daofa arrived at the hotel first and shouted. "Where is Jia Yan?"

Zhao Xinglong replied. "He received a call from an investor and left. We don't know where he has gone.

Xiang Daofa can no longer control his anger. He already knows about the number of participants, and the investment group which Jia Yan promised had not appeared. His secretary just informed him that Park Yongxi is not going to attend this investment fair!

Everything had screwed up!

Xiang Daofa is disgraced by what happened.

"Secretary Xiang!" Cao Xupeng entered with a frustrated look.

After a while, Xie Huilan also arrived, and they immediately have an emergency meeting in the hotel's private room. They need to discuss how they are going to salvage the situation.

In the room.

Xie Huilan immediately flares up after the door is closed. "What is Jia Yan doing? Does he even have any capabilities?! How can he screw up with this investment fair!? I had given him all the support he requested. I had given him sufficient manpower and funds! 5 million RMB! The County Government had to cut expenses to raise 5 million for this investment fair, which is the result?! Only six investors had turn up?! What is this?!" Xie Huilan and the County Government had not said a word after all the issues surfaced two days ago. They are waiting for this moment.

This is scolding Xiang Daofa indirectly.

Xiang Daofa had appointed Jia Yan, and questioning his ability is equivalent to doubting Xiang Daofa's foresight!

Xiang Daofa is looking terrible and kept quiet as Jia Yan had indeed screwed up this investment fair.

The whole County is watching the Investment Promotion Agency. Not one had defied Jia Yan's instructions and had followed his orders. Even the County Government had provided all the support to Jia Yan, and Mayor Xie had given him everything he wanted. But what happened in the end? The investment fair only has a handful of participants, and even the confirmed investment is gone!

Cao Xupeng sighed. Secretary Xiang's reputation is seriously affected this time.

Is Xie Huilan responsible for this? Her responsibility is almost negligible. It was Secretary Xiang who had interfered with the County Government. The Agency had been doing well, but everything went downhill after Xiang Daofa replaces Dong Xuebing despite Xie Huilan's objection. Not only he had not to get the credit for it, he even made a big mess!

Xiang Daofa is now the joke of the County.

Cao Xupeng felt they should get Xiao Dong back to save the situation. At least Yan Tai County will not be so embarrassed.

But Xiang Daofa is not considering the County. He is more concerned for himself. He was the one who wanted to replace Xiao Dong initially, and he will not allow him to come back! He would rather see this investment fair fail than give in to Xie Huilan. He thought for a while and calmed down. "Mayor Xie, don't be anxious. I know Jia Yan well, and he has the capabilities. He had participated in several City investment fairs, and the current situation should be related to our County's economic situation. I don't think anyone can do a better job than Jia Yan."

Xiang Daofa had to speak up for Jia Yan because he had boasted about his capabilities during the Committee Meeting.

Xiang Daofa is implying that he will not let Dong Xuebing come back!

Xie Huilan smiled and asked. "Then how do you think we should settle this?"

"Let tone down the scale." Xiang Daofa replied. "We can turn the investment fair into a project presentation and don't have a grand opening ceremony tomorrow."

Xie Huilan looks at him. "Are we going to change the person in charge?"

Xiang Daofa shook his head. "Chief Jia had worked in the Investment Promotion Agency for five to six years, and I trust his abilities." He had contacted an investor before the investment fair. One of the six investors is his friend, who promised to invest 40 million RMB. Even if Park Yongxi's investment is gone, they will still have something, and they will not look so bad.

Xiang Daofa insisted on his ways and refused to let Xiao Dong come back. This is equivalent to not allowing Xie Huilan and Dong Xuebing to make a comeback. Do you claim Xiao Dong can turn things around? How are you going to substantiate this claim? It's fine if Dong Xuebing failed after coming back. Still, if he manages to save the investment fair, Xiang Daofa will be more embarrassed!

Cao Xupeng frowned and shook his head in his heart. Xiang Daofa's vision is nowhere near Xie Huilan.

But Xie Huilan tried to speak up for Dong Xuebing and stopped after a while. It seems that she had agreed to let Jia Yan continue to head the investment fair.

What is happening? Xiang Daofa suddenly has a bad feeling.

Cao Xupeng also felt something is wrong. Xie Huilan had plotted this for so long, and why did she stop fighting for Dong Xuebing now?

Xiang Daofa frowned and asked for Xie Huilan's opinions.

Xie Huilan smiled. "I have my reservations, but since Secretary Xiang believes in Chief Jia's capabilities, I shall go along with it. Oh, where is Chief Jia? How come I don't see him around?"

"He had gone to meet an investor." Xiang Daofa said, and his phone rang.

Everyone in the room heard it.

"Secretary Xiang, Chief Jia is... hospitalized!"

Xiang Daofa is stunned. "What did you say?"

"Chief Jia had drunk too much and is hospitalized."

Cao Xupeng's face changed. Is he faking sick to avoid being held responsible? How can you pretend to be sick at this time?! This is putting Secretary Xiang in a difficult spot!

Xie Huilan seemed to know this will happen and has been waiting for this call.

Report chapter Comments

Chapter 474 – Reappointed at a critical and difficult moment!

Jia Yan is hospitalized!

When news of Jia Yan being hospitalized is confirmed, everyone involved in the investment fair is furious!

Sun Shuli, Luo Haiting, and all the Investment Promotion Agency's staff are furious! Hospitalized?! Why are you in the hospital now? You had boasted and wanted to take credit for this investment fair when you come. But after screwing up everything, you decided to hide in the hospital to avoid being held responsible for it and let the rest clear your mess!? Can you be more responsible?!

No one had expected Jia Yan to use hospitalization as an excuse to escape responsibility!

But do you think you can hide from it?

Suppose Jia Yan continued with the investment fair with six to seven participants. In that case, he might look bad, but Secretary Xiang will continue to support him. The Community will then decide how much responsibility he should bear after the fair. But he had dumped everything and hide in the hospital now! Secretary Xiang had recommended him and boasted about his capabilities. Doing this will make Secretary Xiang a laughing stock of the County!

Hospitalized one day before the opening ceremony?!

Jia Yan had fooled everyone!

Everyone is cursing Jia Yan in the Xiang Yi Hotel's lobby. Xiang Daofa, who is in a private room upstairs, is mad beyond words. He immediately took out his phone to call Jia Yan!

Ring... ring... ring... but no one answered.

Xiang Daofa called again. The phone is not off, but no one is answering.

Xie Huilan also tried calling Jia Yan and put down her phone angrily. "... nonsense!" She immediately questioned Xiang Daofa. "Secretary Xiang, I seriously doubt Chief Jia's capability, and he has a serious integrity issue! How can he just dump everything for the rest to clear his mess? Does he think this investment fair is a joke?! The County Government had given him all the support he needed, and he had not only created a mess but he is also even hospitalized at this crucial time?! Does he think he can do whatever he wants?!"

Xiang Daofa is embarrassed. He had just voiced his support for Jia Yan in front of Xie Huilan and Cao Xupeng. He claimed he has confidence in his capabilities. But Jia Yan did this at the last minute. "Chief Yan also does not want to be hospitalized. He had excessive alcohol and is on a drip in the hospital now."

Xie Huilan looks at Xiang Daofa. "Everyone from the Investment Promotion Agency is waiting and receiving the investors downstairs, and the County Government staff are also working hard for this investment fair. How can he go and drink now?! Is drinking more important than this investment fair?!"

Cao Xupeng is also furious with Jia Yan.

Even Cao Xupeng, who is from Xiang Daofa's faction, doesn't believe Jia Yan is not feigning sick to escape responsibility, let alone others.

Xiang Daofa is about to explode with anger. Jia Yan had gotten him into a difficult spot, and it is equivalent to slapping him in front of everyone!

...

At the same time.

County People's Hospital.

"Wake up! Chief Yan!"

"Errr... Huh..."

"Wake up now!"

Dong Xuebing looks at the drunk Jia Yan and the drip on his arm angrily.

A few minutes ago, someone informed Dong Xuebing about Jia Yan's hospitalization at the same hospital. He immediately went to look for him at his ward. He also thought Jia Yan is feigning drunk and felt he is a bastard. Jia Yan had rushed over to steal his credit, but when he saw the investment fair is about to fail, he dumped everything and hides in the hospital. Jia Yan does not want to bear any responsibilities and wants to run away from them!

You think it is so easy to snatch my credit?!

Go to hell!

Dong Xuebing stares at Jia Yan. "Jia Yan! Stop pretending and get up now!"

Jia Yan continued to lay on the bed and mumbled something. He seems to be drunk, but Dong Xuebing felt that even if he is drunk, he should have purposely made himself drunk.

"Chief Dong." A County Party Committee staff entered. He was the one who sent Jia Yan to the hospital.

Dong Xuebing looks at the staff. "Can you tell me what happened?"

That staff replied. "I had gone to a restaurant in the western district for dinner and happened to see Chief Jia there. He has dinner with an investor in a private room, and the investment amount seems to be quite big. But after my dinner, I saw Chief Yan is already drunk and blacked out. That investor saw I know Chief Yan and asked me to send him to the hospital."

Huh?

Dong Xuebing thought for a second. "Who is this investor? Do you know him?"

"I have never met him before." The staff shook his head. "I remember he has a Beijing accent."

Wait! This is too suspicious! Dong Xuebing's heart skipped a beat and asked the staff to leave the ward before looking at Jia Yan again.

Beijing's investor?

Did Huilian send this investor to set up Jia Yan and Xiang Daofa?

Dong Xuebing is not stupid and felt this is possible. Jia Yan can reach his current rank means he is not an idiot. He should know he will offend everyone if he dumps everything and feign sick. He will still be held responsible after he is discharged. Even Dong Xuebing knows the consequences of doing this, let alone Jia Yan.

Dong Xuebing immediately send Xie Huilan an SMS, asking her if she had sent that investor.

About one minute later, Xie Huilan replied. "You are quite smart. Haha..."

Damn! It's Sister Xie who had set him up!

Dong Xuebing can imagine the situation at the hotel two hours ago. Only a few investors had arrived, and the 100 million RMB investment is also gone. Jia Yan was at his wit's end when a Beijing investor approached him. The investor told him he might be investing more than 100 million RMB for a project and wants to meet him. This is his last opportunity to save himself, and the investor started drinking with him over dinner. Maybe the investor had said he would sign the contract if Jia Yan can finish two or three bottles of Baijiu. But Jia Yan got drunk and is hospitalized in the end.

Jia Yan might not even wake up tomorrow after drinking so much alcohol!

This is part of Xie Huilan's plot!

Xie Huilan's purpose is to let everyone think Jia Yan is trying to escape his responsibility by hospitalizing himself at the last minute!

Dong Xuebing is laughing in his heart. Xiang Daofa had accused and went after him for killing Li Hong previously, and Sister Xie is returning the favor at the perfect time! Even if Jia Yan wakes up tomorrow, it will be too late, and he has no way to explain himself!

Dong Xuebing looks at his watch. It's 8.30 pm.

Dong Xuebing was about to return to his ward when Jia Yan's phone rang. He thought for a while and took out the phone from his pocket.

The caller display indicates Secretary Xiang's name.

Dong Xuebing answered. "Hello, Secretary Xiang?"

"Who are you?! Get Jia Yan to the phone!" Xiang Daofa shouted angrily.

"I am Dong Xuebing." Dong Xuebing looks at Jia Yan. "Chief Jia is on the drip, and I am not sure if he is drunk. He is unable to answer the phone now."

Xiang Daofa kept quiet.

Dong Xuebing asks sarcastically. "Secretary Xiang, do you want me to try waking him up? The investment fair's opening ceremony is tomorrow, and how can Chief Jia continue to sleep in the ward now? What will happen to the investment fair? This is too irresponsible! I will wake him up... Hey, Chief Jia! Chief Jia! Wake up! Secretary Xiang wants to speak to you!" He paused for a while and said. "He refuses to wake up."

"Don't need to wake him up!" Xiang Daofa suppressed his anger. "Since Jia Yan is hospitalized, you will take over this investment fair. You should know about the current situation, and you must make the fair a success! There's not enough time."

Damn! You had kicked me aside initially, and you want me to clear the mess when things went wrong?!

Dong Xuebing replied nonchalantly. "But I am also hospitalized."

Xiang Daofa almost choked on his words. Dong Xuebing is the only person in Yan Tai County who dares to talk back at him. "You are the Investment Promotion..."

"Ah... the battery is about to die."

Du... du... du... the line was cut.

Dong Xuebing looks at the black screen and thought to himself. I did not hang up on you, and it's the phone's battery that had died.

After a while, Dong Xuebing's phone rang. Xie Huilan had called.

"Alright. Get discharge and come to the hotel now. Everyone is waiting for your orders. Hahaha... you still dare to hang up on Secretary Xiang?! You are daring."

Dong Xuebing didn't feel he had done anything wrong as he walked out of Jia Yan's ward. "Everything had been going smoothly, and he was the one who insisted on kicking me aside. He wants me back only after everything had messed up. He should not have done this in the first place!"

"Haha... Stop complaining. Secretary Xiang had embarrassed himself this time."

"He had asked for it. Who can he blame?"

"Secretary Xiang can be embarrassed, but not our County. You have vented your anger and got back at them. I am ordering you to come back and take charge of the investment fair. I want everyone to know how capable my boyfriend is. Can you do it?"

Dong Xuebing smiled wearily. "Tomorrow is the opening ceremony. It's too hard."

"You must overcome all difficulties. Haha... But don't give yourself too much pressure. I will make some calls later, and there will be at least a few investment groups from Beijing tomorrow. You just need to think of ways to get them to invest and leave the rest to me." With Xie Huilan's connections in Beijing, she can easily get groups of investors to make up the numbers at the opening ceremony.

There will be enough participants tomorrow?!

Dong Xuebing brightens up and doesn't felt so stressed.

Xie Huilan laughed. "Oh, I heard Secretary Xiang had also gotten an investment and will be signing the contract during the investment fair. The invested amount is around 40 million."

Forty million RMB is quite a lot!

Dong Xuebing is motivated immediately. That damn Xiang Daofa had tried to steal my credit, and it's finally my turn to steal yours now!

Report chapter Comments

Chapter 475 – Contact the investors!

9 pm.

Xiang Yi Hotel's lobby.

The few County Leaders had left, leaving the Investment Promotion Agency's staff there waiting anxiously. The opening ceremony is only around 10 hours away, but only six participants and Park Yongxi's investment is canceled. Yan Tai County will be the laughing stock in front of the City Government if this carries on. The Agency has to bear responsibility!

What are they going to do?

No one knows what to do as even their person in charge had feigned illness to hide in the hospital!

When Dong Xuebing arrives at the hotel, Sun Shuli, Luo Haiting, and the rest rushed to him. They had just received information that Chief Dong will take over this investment fair again.

"Chief."

"Chief Dong."

"Chief Jia is hospitalized, and we..."

"Only six participants have arrived, and Mr. Park..."

Dong Xuebing looked at them and waved his hand. "Don't panic. I know about it, and this is nothing to worry about. Alright. You all should be tired after a long day. Go back and rest."

Jiang Hailiang, Lin Pingping, and the rest were stunned. Go back and rest?! Jia Yan had dumped everything to them. How can they sleep? But they calmed down after seeing Chief Dong's reaction. All of them felt Chief Dong is several times more capable than Jia Yan. Jia Yan only knows how to boast. When things did not go according to plan, he immediately feigns illness and hides in the hospital. Look at Chief Dong. His first reaction is, "this is nothing to worry about," and he asked them to go home and rest. This is the difference between them.

Luo Haiting hesitated. "Chief, we..."

"Go home now." Dong Xuebing stopped her. "Have a good rest. We will be busy tomorrow."

Everyone doesn't know how to react. Since Chief Dong asked them to go home, they will obey. Anyway, they are not the person in charge and will not be held responsible for this investment fair failure.

Dong Xuebing asked his subordinates to leave because they also can't help with anything by staying here. After they left, Dong Xuebing called Park Yongxi. Park Yongxi is still awake, and they met in a café. Xie Huilan will bring in the investors, and he doesn't need to worry about it. All he needs to do is to get more investments to slap Xiang Daofa and Jia Yan again. This will tell everyone that replacing him is a big mistake and help Xie Huilan get some credits. That's why he must get more investments in this fair.

Park Yongxi is Dong Xuebing's first target.

Park Yongxi should not be changing his mind at the last minute.

A café.

When Dong Xuebing arrived at the café, Park Yongxi is already there, waiting for him. They did not go into a private room, as there are no other customers at this time.

"Master Park." Dong Xuebing smiles. "Sorry to ask you out so late."

Park Yongxi laughed. "It's fine. I heard you had become the person in charge of the investment fair again."

"Yes, I got reappointed at the last minute. It's so stressful." Dong Xuebing sat down and ordered a coffee. "Master Park, I thought we had finalized this investment? We are unable to offer the five years tax exemption you wanted. Even Mayor Xie cannot allow this, as this is against the regulations."

Park Yongxi laughed. "I know."

Dong Xuebing is stunned. "You know?!" If you know about this, why did you demand it? What are you trying to do?

Park Yongxi did not continue immediately. He took a sip of coffee and continued. "We did agree on the terms of the contract, but that is between you and me. I have no obligations towards others."

Dong Xuebing paused for a second. "Then, the project..."

"Since you are reappointed to be the person in charge of the investment fair, then it will not be a problem. The five years exemption is only a casual remark. Haha... We will go along with what was discussed before. I have check out the investment site, and we don't need to discuss the details again. Just tell me when you want to sign the contract, and we will sign it."

Dong Xuebing understood why Park Yongxi had done this. He shows his support for him and the five-year tax exemption to make things difficult for Jia Yan. This is to force the County to reappoint Dong Xuebing to be the person in charge again. He is touched. Although Park Yongxi and he had gotten along well and had sparred before, their relationship is not that close for him to help Dong Xuebing. Also, Dong Xuebing had challenged and embarrassed Seoul's Taekwondo Schools. Park Yongxi has no obligations to help him. This means he treats Dong Xuebing as his friend!

Damn!

Old Park is a good friend!

Dong Xuebing suddenly banged the table, shocking the waitress and Park Yongxi. "Master Park, I will not say much. Just give me a call if you need any help in the future!"

Park Yongxi laughed. "You frightened me. Haha... Alright. Just take care of my investment for me as I will be returning to Korea next month."

"No problem. No one will dare to disturb your investment with me around!"

Dong Xuebing did not expect his greatest headache is solved just like this. He is in a great mood and continued to discuss with Park Yongxi about his investment. He almost jumped up in joy when Park Yongxi confirmed he would be investing 100 million. But this will give others the impression that he was the one who asked Park Yongxi to cancel his investment to create problems for the investment fair. Park Yongxi expressed he understands, told Dong Xuebing that he would attend the investment fair, and showed his change of attitude over the next few days.

Good!

Dong Xuebing felt Park Yongxi is a righteous person and is worthy of being treated as a friend.

Dong Xuebing felt the weight on his shoulders is gone. With Park Yongxi's 100 million RMB, and Xiang Daofa's 40 million RMB, this investment fair is considered a success. Everyone can accept this outcome as this will be higher than expected.

But this is not the end.

Dong Xuebing is still not satisfied. Since he is going to make Xiang Daofa look bad, he should not hold back. Xiang Daofa had picked on him several times, and he will not accept it. One hundred forty million RMB investment is not enough to make Xiang Daofa and Jia Yan the joke of the County. He needs to prove himself to everyone and tell everyone Xie Huilan had picked the right person for this job.

That's right. I will look for him!

Dong Xuebing suddenly remembers a person. He thought for a while in his car and took out his phone.

Ring... ring... ring...

The other party answered. "Hello, who's that?"

"Teacher Mu, are you resting?"

"Huh? You are that young man?! Hahaha... I am not resting. You have finally called me. I have been waiting for your call." The other party is Mu Zhengzhong, a private museum owner. Dong Xuebing gave him Japan's National Treasure after returning, but he did not leave his name and contact details.

Dong Xuebing paused for a second. "You are waiting for my call?"

"Is it convenient to talk now?"

"Yes. Go ahead."

"Haha... You had handed the to me, and I must let you know that it is returned to Japan. Of course, it is not returned for free. It is exchanged for one National Treasure tier relic, three first-tier relics, and five second-tier relics. The National Treasure tier relic, two first-tier relics have been donated to the Palace Museum, and the remaining will be on display in my Museum these few days."

Dong Xuebing nodded. That is useless, and they might as well exchange it for China's cultural relics. This was his plan. "... this is worth celebrating."

Mu Zhengzhong laughed. "Japan's National Treasure is too outstanding, and we did not talk about the details. Since we have exchanged it for our relics, I am thinking of giving you..."

"It's not good to talk about money. I had already said I am donating to your Museum."

"Not to mention the National Treasure relic and the first-tier relics, those five second-tier relics are worth a lot, despite not allowed to be auctioned. I am thinking of estimating those relics' value and..."

Dong Xuebing interrupted. "Teacher Mu, I had already said that is a gift for you. Stop talking to me about those relics' values. We are all fellow Chinese. Is there a need to talk about all these?"

"Then I will owe you a big favor." These relics will prove their worth when they are displayed in Mu Zhengzhong's Museum.

"How about this?" Dong Xuebing thought for a while. "Come and invest in our County."

Mu Zhengzhong is stunned. "Huh? Your County? Invest?"

"Err... It's a bit late for self-introduction. My name is Dong Xuebing, and I am Yan Tai County's Investment Promotion Agency Chief. We had organized an investment fair but met with some problems. I know you are only dealing in antiques, but investment and collecting antiques are quite similar. If you think you had owed me a favor, then come and invest with us. I guarantee you will make money."

Investment Promotion Agency?

This young man is the Chief?!

Mu Zhongzheng is speechless. Someone who can steal the National Treasure from Japan's most secured Museum is a... government staff and is a County Investment Promotion Agency's Chief?!

Which civil servant will do such things?!

Report chapter Comments

Chapter 476 – You still dare to appear?!

Next morning.

It is the opening ceremony for the investment fair. All the staff has arrived in Xiang Yi Hotel to make preparations.

Dong Xuebing had not returned yesterday and slept at the hotel. After he woke up, he immediately went downstairs and saw Sun Shuli, Luo Haiting, and the rest waiting for him. "Director Luo, bring a few of our people and hotel staff to set up the venue. Make sure the microphone, speakers, etc., are working. Old Sun, is the order of the guest speakers confirmed?"

"Jia Yan was the one who planned it."

"Who is the investors' representative?"

"It was Master Park, but now..."

"Change it. I have someone else in mind."

Dong Xuebing turned and shouted to Lin Pingping, who was talking to someone at the front desk. "Xiao Lin, show me the promotional materials."

Lin Pingping quickly walks over with a set of brochures.

Dong Xuebing looked at it and nodded. "This is fine. Go and prepare a few more dozen sets."

"We need more sets?! Oh... ok. I will go now." Lin Pingping did not ask and went off to carry out Dong Xuebing's orders.

"Xiao Jiang." Dong Xuebing looks at Jiang Hailiang, who is standing away from him. "Get someone to station outside, and inform me immediately when an investor arrives!"

"Yes!"

A few investors arrived this morning, and there are 10 participants in total. This situation is still the same, but everyone did not show their worries on their face in front of Chief Dong. They don't doubt Chief Dong's abilities, but he took over Jia Yan's mess too late. He only has a few hours to turn the situation around. What can he do?

After all while, Deputy Mayor Zhao Xinglong and other Leaders have arrived.

"Mayor Zhao." Dong Xuebing quickly walks over to greet him.

Zhao Xinglong looks around. "Mayor Xie will be arriving soon. How is the situation now? If there's not enough time, we can postpone the opening ceremony to the afternoon."

Dong Xuebing smiles. "No need. We have enough time."

"Good." Zhao Xinglong nodded. "I believe you will make it a success."

"Haha... You are giving me more pressure."

The investment fair is the focus of the County, especially after Secretary Xiang's embarrassment from it. Xie Huilan and Dong Xuebing are the winners of this clash with Xiang Daofa. Everyone knows that Dong Xuebing is not to be blamed if this investment fair failed because he was reappointed at the last minute. He can just push the blame to Jia Yan and. But if he can make the fair a success, it will make Secretary Xiang look even worse. Chief Dong and Mayor Xie will get the most credit for it.

This investment fair will change Yan Tai County's political scene, and all the County staff is watching it closely.

Suddenly, a Business Section 2 staff runs into the lobby. "Chief Dong, Master Park is here!"

Sun Shuli, Jiang Hailiang, and the rest brighten up. Park Yongxi had said he would not be attending this fair before.

Zhao Xinglong is also excited and went out with Dong Xuebing to receive him.

Park Yongxi alighted from his car and smiles at them. "Mayor Zhao, Chief Dong. Sorry for being late. Did I miss the opening ceremony?"

"No. Please come in."

After they enter the hotel, Zhao Xinglong asked Park Yongxi about his investment and noticed he did not mention the five-year tax exemption again. He only says he will reconsider his investment during the investment fair. Jia Yan could not even meet Park Yongxi yesterday. After Dong Xuebing replaced him, Park Yongxi has a change of attitude. Many people can tell Park Yongxi treats Dong Xuebing differently.

Many Investment Promotion Agency staff are relieved. If they can get Park Yongxi's investment, then this investment fair can be considered a success.

This is an encouragement to them.

"Master Park, let me walk you to the venue."

"I can go by myself. Just carry on with your work."

"Then... Xiao Zhang, accompany Master Park." Dong Xuebing asked Zhang Fan from Business Section 1 to accompany him.

"Mr. Park, this way, please." Zhang Fan said.

Zhao Xinglong smiles as he watches Park Yongxi took the elevator upstairs and patted Dong Xuebing's back. He was about to say something, and another Agency staff rushed in. "Mayor Zhao, Chief, there is a convoy arriving. But we don't know if... They had not made any appointments." When the Agency contacted the investors, they had recorded the ones who agreed to attend. But the cars outside have Beijing's registration plates, and they don't remember any Leaders inviting Beijing businessmen. No. It should be no Beijing businessmen had agreed to attend.

Everyone stepped out from the lobby and saw the convoy. Most of them are Mercedes, and there are a few A8 and Lexus.

Luo Haiting and Lin Pingping exchanged looks. They felt this group of people should not be here to attend the investment fair. They might only be passing by the hotel.

A middle-aged man alighted from a black Mercedes Benz and looked at the people at the hotel entrance before walking over to Dong Xuebing with a smile. He extended his hand. "Are you Chief Dong?"

Dong Xuebing shook his hand. "You are?"

"I am Old Yu. We had spoken over the phone last night!"

"Oh... Mr. Yu!" Dong Xuebing knew these people should be the investment group Xie Huilan contacted. "Nice to meet you."

Dong Xuebing does not know how close Mr. Yu is to Xie Huilan, but the latter treated him like an old friend. "Come... let me introduce you. This is Mr. Luo. He is the biggest shareholder of a Beijing automobile accessory factory. That is Mr. Qi. He is dealing with financial investment. Oh, this is Mr. Liu, my classmate. He is doing agriculture business now..." There are around three to four men in each car, and all of them know each other. After all of them alighted, there are more than 30 men.

Dong Xuebing smiles and quickly introduces Zhao Xinglong and other county leaders before walking them into the hotel.

The Investment Promotion Agency staff are stunned. These are all the investors Chief Dong invited? How did he invite so many people in one night?

But before they can ask Chief Dong, two convoys arrived outside. All of them have Shandong registration plates.

Dong Xuebing had heard about the Xie Family's fourth child, Xie Huilan's aunt, Xie Guoyue. She is stationed in Shandong Province, and her husband, Hou Xingan, is Shandong Province's Deputy Mayor. He knows Sister Xie's connections had invited these people.

The hotel suddenly becomes busy.

Within half an hour, more than 80 investors had arrived. With the 10 participants who had arrived yesterday and earlier this morning, there are almost 100 participants!

Luo Haiting did not expect so many people to appear, and they could not handle the sudden crowd. She immediately calls the Agency to get four more staff over to help out. The rest of the County Government Leaders also called their departments to send additional manpower over.

No one had expected this quiet investment fair to become bustling with life suddenly!

Chief Dong had only use one night to invite so many investors?!

...

At the same time.

A ward in the County's People Hospital.

Jia Yan woke up with a splitting headache. He looked around and noticed he is in the hospital. He sat up on his bed and rubbed his temples, trying to recall what happened. Suddenly, his face changed, and looks at his watch. It's already 8.30 am!

The investment fair!

Damn!

Jia Yan quickly took out his phone and realized his phone is dead. He immediately got dressed and rushed out to get a taxi. He had drunk too much last night and still feels giddy on his way to the hotel. But he must endure it as the investment fair is more important. The opening ceremony is starting soon, and how can the person in charge of the fair not be present?"

"Errr... do you have a mobile phone?"

"What do you want?"

"Can I make a phone call?"

"... No."

Jia Yan did not ask again and looked at his watch anxiously. He is worried about the investment fair.

When the taxi stops at the hotel entrance, Jia Yan saw an unbelievable scene. All the Investment Promotion Agency staff are busily working. Some are chatting with middle-aged men, and some are giving out promotional materials and brochures. Lin Pingping, Jiang Hailiang, and some staff look like they are promoting some investments to them. Jia Yan knows they should be investors from their dressing. What is going on? How come so many investors turn up?

Hahaha!

Jia Yan is ecstatic. With so many investors, this investment fair will be a success. If he can get these investors to invest, he should easily raise 100 million RMB worth of investments.

Jia Yan quickly walked nearer to the hotel entrance and started ordering. "Xiao Lin, have you given out all the materials?"

Lin Pingping and Jiang Hailiang noticed Jia Yan, and both nearly exploded from their anger!

F*k!

You still dare to appear?!

Report chapter Comments

Chapter 477 – Opening Ceremony!

Xiang Yi Hotel.

Level 1, hotel's lobby.

Jia Yan attracted the stares of all staff. No one had expected him to be so shameless. You took over Chief Dong's position to steal his credit and created a mess with the investment fair. When you see the fair is about to fail, you feigned sick and hid in the hospital to escape responsibility. Now, after Chief Dong had invited over 100 investors for this fair and made it a success, you are discharged and come back to steal the credit again!? What are you thinking?!

Jia Yan is puzzled. Why are you all looking at me like this?

Jia Yan briefly explained. "I had drunk too much with an investor yesterday. What's the situation now? Chief Lin, tell me."

"..." Lin Pingping kept quiet and ignored him.

"I am asking you a question!" Jia Yan got mad. "What is wrong with you?!"

Everyone from the Investment Promotion Agency is looking down on Jia Yan's action. He is too shameless and will do everything for the credit. He is useless and cannot get anything done. When he is about to be held responsible, he dumped everything and hides in the hospital. Now, there's a credit to be claimed, and he appeared again.

Luo Haiting, who was standing not far away, said sarcastically. "Chief Jia, you know when to appear."

Jia Yan is furious. Why is everyone giving him such an attitude? Are they going against him openly?

Suddenly, Mayor Xie's car arrived, and the hotel staff opened the rear passenger door. Xie Huilan and Hu Silian alighted and walked into the lobby.

"Chief Jia?" Xie Huilan noticed Jia Yan and narrowed his eyes. "Shouldn't you suppose be in the hospital?"

Jia Yan quickly explained. "No, yesterday..."

Xie Huilan interrupts him. "Come back after you have recovered. The investment fair has been handed over to Xiao Dong. Take care of your health."

Jia Yan is stunned. What? The investment fair is handed over to Dong Xuebing?

Ding! The elevator door opened, and Dong Xuebing walks out to see Jia Yan's shocked expression. He laughed in his heart because he knows Xie Huilan had set up Jia Yan. There's no way he can explain himself and have offended both sides. Dong Xuebing walks over. "Mayor Xie, the venue has been set up, and there are around 100 investors. The opening ceremony will start at 9 am. Is this fine with you?"

"I will just follow your arrangements." Xie Huilan smiles.

Dong Xuebing replied. "Alright. We will stick to the original plan."

"Ok." Xie Huilan looked at the investors around the lobby and nodded. "Good job."

Everyone knows Dong Xuebing and Xie Huilan are dating, and it's funny to see them speaking like this. But they understand that they are at work and it's not right to address each other by name.

"Oh, Chief Jia. You are here?!" Dong Xuebing looks at Jia Yan with a smile. "How are you feeling?"

Jia Yan suppressed his anger. "I am fine, but..."

"You are fine?!" Dong Xuebing did not give him any face. "Good. We still need people to help out at the venue. Old Sun has too many things to handle. Go upstairs to assist him."

Jia Yan could not stand this sudden change. He is still wondering why the investment fair's person in charge had changed to Dong Xuebing.

...

9 am.

The hotel's ballroom.

Everyone who is supposed to be here had arrived. The 100 investors are seated in seven rows in front of the stage, and they are chatting and joking among themselves. Dong Xuebing checked everything is in order and returned to the first row. He whispered something to Xie Huilan, Zhao Xinglong, and other County Government Leaders, and Xie Huilan nodded. Dong Xuebing stood up and signaled to Lin Pingping. She quickly walks up the stage.

Lin Pingping is good-looking and is good at speaking. That's why she was picked as the emcee for this opening ceremony.

"Good morning, Leaders, guests, ladies and gentlemen." Lin Pingping smiles and continued. "Welcome to our beautiful Yan Tai County. First of all, we would like to thank you all for taking the time to attend our investment fair..." She has a lovely voice, and her opening speech lasted around three minutes.

After that, it's the County's Leaders to speak.

Xie Huilan smiles and walks up the stage. She adjusted the microphone and started introducing Yan Tai County's economic situation.

"Chief, Chief Dong." Sun Shuli called Dong Xuebing softly.

Dong Xuebing turned. "Huh? What's wrong?"

Sun Shuli quickly asks. "After Mayor Xie finishes her speech, it will be the investors' representative turn. Where is the representative you said?"

"I had called him, and he will be arriving soon." Dong Xuebing looks at his phone. "Tell Chief Lin to switch the schedule and let other speakers go first. We will wait for him."

Sun Shuli replied. "What if he cannot make it in time? Should we change..."

Dong Xuebing smiles. "Don't worry. This representative is very important to us. Let's wait for him. Other representatives are not as influential as him. Haha..."

Sun Shuli and Luo Haiting are puzzled. Influential? Only Park Yongxi can be considered influential among the investors here. Not only is he Korea's Tae Kwon Do Grandmaster, but he is also wealthy and is a foreign investor. He is the best person to be the representative. He can give other investors confidence in investing in Yan Tai County. Does this mean Chief Dong had invited someone more outstanding than him?

Ring... ring... ring... Dong Xuebing's rang.

Dong Xuebing looks at the number. "He's here. Old Sun, help me take care of the situation here. I will go downstairs to receive him."

One minute...

Five minutes...

Ten minutes...

The ballroom's door opened, and Dong Xuebing entered with a middle-aged man.

The Investment Promotion Agency staff and the investors recognized that man immediately. Some of the Beijing investment groups are friends with him.

"Teacher Mu?"

"Old Mu, why are you here?"

Mu Zhengzhong smiled and greeted his friends before walking to the front with Dong Xuebing.

Mu Zhengzhong is very famous. Other than appearing on TV shows, his museum had exhibited the recently. Some people already know that Japan had exchanged a few of China's cultural relics for their National Treasure. Many people are discussing how he had gotten Japan's National Treasure.

Moreover, none of the investors in the ballroom can be compared to Mu Zhengzhong's wealth.

How much money does someone who deals with antiques have? Any of the relics in Mu Zhengzhong's museum are worth millions. If he puts a few antiques up for auction, he will get an astronomical amount from them. One of his porcelain vases was sold for over 100 million RMB overseas. Some of his books, paintings, jade accessories are worth over one hundred million RMB each.

These assets are only what Mu Zhengzhong disclosed.

No one believes that Mu Zhengzhong had spent his entire fortune to buy antiques to display in his museum. Some of the investors in the ballroom have assets of a few hundred million RMB. They can afford antiques worth over one hundred million, but they will not dare to do it. Many people estimate Mu Zhengzhong to have assets over one billion or even a few billions.

A few billion?!

The twenty people investment group from Shandong Province's total assets might not even reach a few billion RMB. That's why no one dares to claim they are wealthier than Mu Zhengzhong.

But... Mu Zhengzhong has only been collecting antiques. Why is he coming here to invest? This is different! Everyone is puzzled.

Lin Pingping, who is speaking on the stage, saw Dong Xuebing's signal and announced. "Let's welcome our investors' representative to say a few words."

The audience applauded.

Dong Xuebing smiles. "Teacher Mu, it's your turn."

"I am not good at speaking. You are putting me in a difficult position." Mu Zhengzhong replied, but he had promised Dong Xuebing over the phone. He walks up the stage and picks up the microphone. "It's an honor to attend Yan Tai County's investment fair. First, I must apologize for being late. I had slowed down to enjoy the scenery on my way here. Haha... I had been here a few years ago, and the changes in Yan Tai County had surprised me..." Mu Zhengzhong started praising Yan Tai County.

Xie Huilan nodded.

Zhao Xinglong also took a glance at Dong Xuebing. They should not replace Xiao Dong as the person in charge of this fair. This is different from the situation yesterday.

The opening ceremony ended.

After all the investors left the ballroom, Xie Huilan and Zhao Xinglong called Dong Xuebing over and walked over to greet Mu Zhengzhong.

"I didn't expect we can invite Mr. Mu here." Xie Huilan shook his hand with a smile.

Zhao Xinglong, Sun Shuli, and the rest are also curious why someone like Mu Zhengzhong had come to their County.

Mu Zhengzhong laughed. "Your County's Chief Dong and I are old friends, and how can I reject my friend's invitation? Haha... Furthermore, the investment environment in your County is quite good. I had come at the right time."

Everyone finally understood. Mu Zhengzhong and Chief Dong are friends.

Chief Dong had invited a VIP again!

Jia Yan, who was not far away, felt Dong Xuebing had tricked him. If Dong Xuebing had shown his capabilities earlier, he would not drink with that investor yesterday! He should be the one under the spotlight now! He still does not realize there are no free lunches in this world!

Report chapter Comments

Chapter 478 – Someone is creating trouble?!

Next morning.

The County Party Committee family quarters. Xiang Daofa's home.

Xiang Daofa had received calls about the investment fair's success since yesterday. After hanging up his call with County Party Committee Office Director Liao Yanshan, he sat down at the dining table in a bad mood. He does not have the appetite to take his breakfast. He wants the fair to be successful, but he is troubled. He can get credit if it is successful. Still, his reputation will be further affected because he had interfered with the County Government.

"Dad, what's wrong?" Xiang Renjie asked.

Xiang Daofa looks at him. "It's none of your business."

"Is it that Dong..."

"Enough! Pack your luggage and return to Beijing!"

Xiang Renjie had heard about what happened with the investment fair, and his father is angry over it. He is still furious with Dong Xuebing over his dog. He decides to take revenge against Dong Xuebing and Xie Huilan before returning to Beijing. You two had made my family suffer?! I will not allow that!

...

Many people had seen what happened at the investment fair's opening ceremony and knows Secretary Xiang had lost to Mayor Xie by a lot.

But many people felt there's no way for Xiang Daofa to avoid this defeat.

The County's Party Committee, County Government, and the Investment Promotion Agency had given Jia Yan full support, but he screwed it up. Chief Dong only used a few hours to turn things around and got around 100 investors to attend the fair. He also managed to persuade Park Yongxi to continue their negotiation about his investment. He even invited a tycoon like Mu Zhengzhong over. Everyone failed, but things turned around after Chief Xiao Dong took over.

This is his capabilities!

Many Yan Tai County staff will question Chief Xiao Dong's political wisdom. But no one will doubt his capabilities. He showed everyone his capabilities when he was with the Public Security Bureau and the Investment Promotion Agency. No one is more capable than him at work!

The Investment Promotion Agency without Dong Xuebing had returned to square one overnight, explaining many things.

Secretary Xiang had shot himself in his foot this time.

...

One hour later.

The entrance of the Investment Promotion Agency.

Dong Xuebing looked at the two big buses by the roadside and said to Sun Shuli, Luo Haiting, and the rest. "Stay alert, and don't let your guards down. Mayor Xie and the County Government are pleased with the number of investors, but I want you all to know that this is not over. Our mission is to get investors to invest in our projects! That's all I have to say. Alright, let's go to the hotel to pick them. Mayor Xie and Mayor Zhao will be accompanying the investors and us around the investment sites this morning!"

Everyone is motivated and got onto the bus to go to Xiang Yi Hotel.

Today is the first day of the investment fair, and they will be visiting many important projects this morning. There will also be cameramen following them to film for the local TV station's news.

At 9 am, the buses and a few County Government vehicles drove out of the hotel.

Dong Xuebing, Xie Huilan and Hu Silian are in a Passat.

Xie Huilan smiles. "Is Master Park's investment confirmed? What about Mr. Mu's?"

"Master Park should not be a problem." Dong Xuebing replied. "We still have not finalized Teacher Mu's investment, but I will speak to him these few days."

Xie Huilan nodded. "Other than these, you must take note of the investors' safety too. Nothing must go wrong during this period."

"I understand." Dong Xuebing saw the driver, Old Yan, and Hu Silian is looking in front, and he secretly held Xie Huilan's hand.

Xie Huilan smiled and did not pull back her hand.

Dong Xuebing knows what Xie Huilan means. This period is crucial, and nothing must go wrong. Xiang Daofa will not accept defeat easily, and who knows if he might create some problems for the investment fair. Although Dong Xuebing felt Xiang Daofa might not do that, he must take precautions against him. What if he decided to mess up the fair to prevent Xie Huilan and Dong Xuebing from getting the credit?!

That will cross the line if Xiang Daofa does that.

When Dong Xuebing is thinking about all these, Old Yan suddenly applied emergency brakes. The car jerked and stopped.

What happened?"

Dong Xuebing looks up and saw a Corona had cut in front of their car.

As they are the first car, both buses behind had to brake hard to prevent colliding into them.

Old Yan's face changed, and he almost swore. But Mayor Xie is seated behind him, and the investors and TV station's staff are in the buses behind. He knows he cannot step out to scold the driver in front and can only press on the horn.

The Corolla in front ignored and continued to drive slowly in front of the Passat.

This is a narrow road, and with the Corolla hogging the road, everyone had to move at a snail's pace. It was until a truck overtook them, the Passat can change lanes and follow behind. Both buses also quickly follow them.

Why does this car look so familiar?

Dong Xuebing remembered he had seen this car outside of the County Party Committee quarters.

He suddenly remembered that this car belongs to Xiang Renjie's classmates, and they had sent Xiang Renjie and his dog back to the quarters before! Dong Xuebing turns and looks at the car. Both the driver and the front passenger are in their early twenties, and one of them is using the phone and laughing.

Damn! They are trying to disrupt the investment fair!

Dong Xuebing immediately says. "That is Secretary Xiang's son's friend's car."

Xie Huilan looks forward calmly. "Maybe that was coincident."

Dong Xuebing does not believe it was a coincidence. Yan Tai County might not be big, but why did they appear on the fair and even cut into their lane on the first day?

Hu Silian is also looking terrible. How can they drive this way? What are they trying to do? Did they do this purposely?

Dong Xuebing suppressed his anger and looked at the bus. Luo Haiting, Sun Shuli, and some investors got a fright. Lin Pingping, who was explaining the investment projects to the investors, was standing and had fallen due to the sudden braking. She is holding her arm and seems injured.

...

Inside the Toyota Corolla.

A young man is laughing into the phone. "Renjie, we had cut in front of them, and someone even fell. Hahaha..."

"Good." Xiang Renjie, who is on the other line, is pleased. "Do that again later."

"Oh, the Mayor is in one of the cars. Is this alright?"

"Don't worry. My father is the Party Secretary and is the No. 1 in the County. Furthermore, you all had not committed any crimes. At most, it is some traffic offenses. If anyone dares to find trouble with you all, I will ask my father to take care of them." Xiang Renjie is purposely trying to create trouble for Xie Huilan and Dong Xuebing. "Just go ahead and scare them. It would be best if you all can scare the investors away. Haha... I will treat you all to dinner at Shangri-La when this is over."

"Alright. I have always wanted to go there!"

...

9.40 am.

The convoy had arrived at the first investment site. It is a real estate project.

Xie Huilan patted Dong Xuebing's hand when he saw his angry expression. "Tell me briefly about this project."

Dong Xuebing suppressed his anger. "This project was started by the Agency last year and is projected to be completed next year. The total investment is around 80 million..."

Dong Xuebing was interrupted, and Old Yan cursed!

Screeched! The Passat had to brake hard again! Old Yan had to brake and stop the car along the road outside of the construction site!

Hu Silian, seated in the front passenger seat, had a seatbelt on, and she is not hurt. But Dong Xuebing and Xie Huilan are seated in the rear, and she knocks her head against the front seat's headrest. She almost knocked her chin onto it. Dong Xuebing also felt an impact against his chest!

Dong Xuebing looks up and saw that Corolla was cutting into their lane diagonally!

It's the same car again! They had cut in more dangerously this time, and the buses behind all had to brake hard!

Lin Pingping, who is on the first bus, and Jiang Hailiang, who is on the second bus, fell. Luo Haiting almost knocked into a metal pole in the bus. Many investors had almost knocked their heads against the seats in front. Some started scolding.

"How can they drive like this??!"

"What is wrong with that Corolla?! They had cut in front of us twice! Are they doing this on purpose?!"

"Is the security so poor here? They even dare to cut in front of the Mayor?!"

A few investors frowned. This speaks a lot about the County. The Mayor does not command respect from the people, and that Corolla even cut into the front of her twice on purpose. How can the investment environment in this County be good? The security is too poor! Some investors started to have second thoughts about investing here.

The Corolla stopped in the middle of the road. Both the driver and passenger turned laughed at the convoy behind them before driving off.

Xie Huilan's face changed!

Dong Xuebing is furious and immediately calls the Public Security Bureau's Deputy Chief Qin Yong. He is in charge of the Traffic Department.

These bastards! You all are seeking death!

Report chapter Comments

Chapter 479 – Dong Xuebing's Kick!

Outside of the construction site.

This is the first investment site, and everyone alighted from the buses and cars.

Dong Xuebing quickly said to Xie Huilan. "Let me handle this."

Xie Huilan nodded and walked towards the investors, Zhao Xinglong, and other Investment Promotion Agency's staff, with Hu Silian. They are about to start introducing this investment, and the staff is not affected by that Corolla. This investment is important to the Agency, and the staff must not let the investors lose confidence in them.

"Chief!"

"What is that Corolla doing? The investors are shaken!"

"That car had purposely cut into our lanes. What is he trying to do?"

Guo Panwei, Luo Haiting, and the rest walk over angrily. Jiang Hailiang had fallen and scraped his arm in the bus earlier.

Dong Xuebing coldly replied. "That car belongs to Xiang Renjie's friend."

"Secretary Xiang's son?"

"He is... trying to disrupt the investment fair?"

Everyone is speechless. How can Secretary Xiang stoop so low? After getting defeated by Mayor Xie and Dong Xuebing, he sent his son to cause troubles with the investment fair?! Does he no longer care about the bigger picture for the County? He is the County's Party Committee Secretary and not a hooligan. But this might also be Xiang Renjie's decision as everyone knows him with no regard for the law.

"Chief, what are we going to do now?"

"I had called the Traffic police. Go and accompany the investors. That is more important."

The two students in the Corolla saw the group of investors is not affected, and they stopped their car to call Xiang Renjie.

"Renjie, we cut into their lane again, but they don't have any reactions."

"Haha... then do it one last time. After that, drive straight to Beijing. I will return to Beijing this afternoon." Xiang Renjie knows the consequences for this action will be severe and does not want to meet them in Yan Tai County. He wants to avoid being seen associated with that Corolla. His friends had come to Yan Tai County for the first time, and no one knows them. If they are not caught red-handed, no one can do anything to them.

Xiang Renjie's classmates got excited. With the County's Party Secretary backing them, they don't need to worry about anything. They can continue to scare the Mayor and that group of government officials and boast to others in the future.

"Alright. Renjie, we know what to do."

"Ok. I will let you two handle this."

The students discussed among themselves and turn around. They know the traffic police will be here, and even with Secretary Xiang's backing, they will still be delayed. They might as well try to finish this task now and return to Beijing.

Dong Xuebing and the others noticed the Corolla had returned when they are inspecting the site!

The Corolla is speeding towards them. This place is a construction site, and the roads are not completed yet. The dust is flying because of the speeding car, and if they pass the investors and government leaders, they will be covered in dust!

The Investment Promotion Agency staff are furious!

They are too arrogant! They had cut into their lanes twice and are trying to cover them in dust now?!

Mayor Xie, Deputy Mayor Zhao, and the investors are here. If this incident affected the investors' mood, how are they going to get them to invest? Someone had instigated that Corolla to cause trouble for the Investment Promotion Agency, disgrace Mayor Xie and Mayor Zhao, and leave a bad impression for those investors.

This is too evil. How can they use these hooligans' tactics?!

Twenty meters!

Fifteen meters!

The car is getting closer!

Xie Huilan and Zhao Xinglong were standing at the front, and Zhao Xinglong's face changed when he saw that car. But he continued to stand there with Mayor Xie. They have time to run aside, but that will look bad on them and the County Government.

Hu Silian shouted. "Stop!"

"What are you doing?!" Sun Shuli stared and shouted at the Corolla.

But the two students ignored. They laughed to themselves. We are just driving along the road and did not crash into you all. This is not against the law, and Xiang Renjie had promised to protect them if anything happens.

Ten meters!

Five meters!

If the Corolla continues forward, Mayor Xie and the investors will be covered in dust!

At the final minute, Dong Xuebing rushes out. He can no longer hold back.

Everyone knows Chief Dong has a foul temper and rash. But what can he do by rushing towards a speeding car? What Dong Xuebing did next shocked everyone. He ran a few steps forward, raised his leg, and kicked against that Corolla!

Damn!

"Chief Dong!"

"Xiao Dong!"

Everyone thought Dong Xuebing had got mad. They know Chief Dong is good at combat, but this is a speeding car! How can you try to kick it? Do you want to die? Everyone is shocked. This Chief Dong is too reckless!

The two students in the car were also shocked. They did not expect anyone to rush out and kick their car!

Dong Xuebing is not stupid. He knows he will be knockdown even if his leg is made of iron. There is no way he can stop that car with his kick. That's why when his right foot is about to touch the car's bonnet, he mumbled under his breath. STOP!

...

Time stopped!

Dong Xuebing looked at the Corolla and reached into it through the window. He pulled the handbrakes and turned the steering wheel twice. After that, he returned to his previous spot and straightened his back... STOP!

...

Time resumed!

Screech!!! The Corolla's rear tires are locked!

At the same time, the car skidded to one side with its tires locked! The car lost traction and started spinning!

180 degrees!

360 degrees!

The tires made long skid marks on the dirt road and spun out of control!

Bam! The car crashed into the outside walls of the construction site at high speed!

The bonnet is crashed! The windscreen shattered, and the airbags are deployed! The Corolla is destroyed!

Everyone felt a chill!

Dong Xuebing covered his nose and mouth with his sleeves to block the dust and slowly walk over to the Corolla. The two students are looking at the wreckage in a daze. Dong Xuebing narrowed his eyes. "How can you drive like this?! Ah?! You all still dare to try handbrake turn?! You are daring! Didn't your driving instructor at the driving school tells you that it is dangerous?!"

The two students are still in a daze. They did not pull their handbrakes!

The people nearby heard what Dong Xuebing said. Didn't that car crash because of your kick?!

Everyone saw Dong Xuebing kicked that Corolla and the car spun out of control towards the wall. No one saw the driver turning his steering wheel. But after some thought, they felt that no matter how strong Chief Dong is, there's no way he can kick a speeding car away!

What is going on?!

Did they meet a ghost?!

Many people look at Dong Xuebing's legs curiously.

Dong Xuebing will not admit he was the one who kicked the car away, and he blamed it all on the driver. It's all the driver's fault, and he has nothing to do with it.

Xie Huilan looks at Dong Xuebing. "Are you hurt?"

"No." Dong Xuebing moved his leg, showing that he is unharmed.

Xie Huilan's eyes are warning him not to cause any more troubles.

Zhao Xinglong also felt Xiao Dong is a troublemaker. His actions had scared everyone.

After a while, Xie Huilan and Zhao Xinglong continued to inspect the construction site with the investors. But before she left, she gave Dong Xuebing a look, and he got the meaning. He nodded, indicating he will handle this.

"My car!"

The two students got over their shock and shouted!

After Xie Huilan and the investors left, Dong Xuebing turned to the driver. "Your car?! Worry about yourselves first! Tell me, who sent you all?! What is your purpose in blocking our cars?! Are you all tailing us? Are you plotting to crash into us, or are you all trying to disrupt our investment fair?! Is this planned by you all or Xiang Renjie?! Do you know that your actions are enough to be sentenced to jail?!"

"Sentenced us?!" One of the students opened his eyes wide.

"Who are you trying to scare?!" The other student shouted. "Compensate us for our car!"

Dong Xuebing laughed. "You all had crashed into the wall yourselves. Who can you blame? I wonder who gave you all the guts to go against our County?"

The traffic police arrived at this time!

"Chief Dong."

Dong Xuebing points to the student. "Bring them back and hand them over to the Public Security Section. They are trying to disturb social stability and disrupt the economic order. Make sure to question them thoroughly!"

After that, Dong Xuebing called the Secretary of the Political and Legal Committee, Huang Li, to inform him of what happened. Even if this incident cannot affect Xiang Daofa's position, it is enough to gross him. His son had tried to disrupt the County's investment fair, which is enough to tarnish his reputation!

Report chapter Comments

Chapter 480 – Xiang Daofa's heavy losses!

The mood in Yan Tai County becomes weird in the afternoon.

News of the Corolla trying to disrupt the investment fair's site inspection, including Dong Xuebing destroying a car with his kick, had spread. Everyone felt Chief Xiao Dong is a troublemaker and is shocked to know that Corolla's driver is Xiang Daofa's son friend. The driver's actions indicated that it is an act of revenge, and it happened during this critical period. This is too sensitive, but did Xiang Daofa ask his son to do it?

It should not be. Secretary Xiang's political awareness should not be so poor. It must be his son's decision.

But this had happened, and who knows if Mayor Xie will blow it up and complain to the City Government.

One hour...

Two hours...

Evening. County Party Committee Family Quarters.

Dong Xuebing drove back to the quarters after accompanying the investors the whole day. But he did not return home and went to Sister Xie's apartment instead. He pressed the doorbell. Ding dong... ding dong...

The door opened. "Haha, you are here."

Dong Xuebing nodded. "Yes."

Xie Huilan smiles and lets him entered.

After Dong Xuebing entered the apartment, he noticed the Executive Deputy Mayor, Geng Yuchao, and County Government Office Director, Yao Yi, are in the living room. He heard Director Yao had joined Xie Huilan's faction recently.

Dong Xuebing quickly greeted them. "Mayor Geng, Director Yao."

Geng Yuchao and Yao Yi quickly stood up to greet Dong Xuebing.

Dong Xuebing knows they are here to discuss something and saw the teapot is empty. "You all can continue. I will prepare some fruits. Oh, what tea do you all prefer?"

Geng Yuchao quickly replied. "No... we are fine."

"That's right, Chief Dong." Yao Yi added. "You don't need to do this."

Xie Huilan smiles. "It's my fault. I had forgotten about this. Xiao Bing, brew two cups of Tieguanyin."

Dong Xuebing nodded. "What about you? What do you want?"

"I will drink whatever you prepared. Haha..." Xie Huilan took Dong Xuebing's leather bag and placed it on the sofa.

Dong Xuebing is still not used to Sister Xie speaking to him in this manner in front of other people. He cleared his throat and poured three cups of tea for them.

"Thank you." Geng Yuchao and Yao Yi stood up to receive the teacups before returning to the sofa.

Geng Yuchao and Yao Yi should not be treating Dong Xuebing this way in the past. Their ranks are higher than Dong Xuebing, and they are his superiors. But this is not at their workplaces or in public. They are in Mayor Xie's apartment, and Dong Xuebing is her fiancé. That's why they must treat him with respect.

But Dong Xuebing is not used to this. He is only a Section Chief and the Head of a small department. Even Yao Yi, the Government Office Director, has more authority than him. He felt uncomfortable to see them treating him respectfully and went into the kitchen to prepare dinner.

Dong Xuebing listened to Sister Xie, Geng Yuchao, and Yao Yi's discussion about this afternoon's incident.

"Mayor Xie, did Secretary Xiang say anything about..."

"Secretary Xiang had called me to explain that he has no idea about this incident."

"But this is still..."

"I thought about this and felt our priority should be stability. Fighting against each other will not benefit us, and the civilians might complain to the higher-ups."

Twenty minutes later, Geng Yuchao and Yao Yi left.

Dong Xuebing and Xie Huilan walked them to the door, and after the door is closed, Dong Xuebing asked. "You are not going to pursue this?"

Xie Huilan nodded with a smile. "You have overheard us? Haha... what's the point of going against each other. In politics, we must have a balance. This incident is another blow to Secretary Xiang's reputation. Still, we cannot blow it up, and it can only be limited to our County. The City Government Leaders will not want to hear about this afternoon's Corolla incident. It will also look bad on me. That's why we should stop at this level. Yan Tai County has been in lots of controversies lately, and we cannot afford any more troubles."

Dong Xuebing smacked his lips. "This is letting him off lightly."

"Not really." Xie Huilan sips on her tea. "Secretary Xiang had given in on several matters."

Dong Xuebing finally understood why Xie Huilan is willing not to blow this incident up. They are political rivals because they want to implement the policies according to their ideologies smoothly. Both parties will not benefit if the City Government learns about these incidents. Moreover, Sister Xie had just become the mayor. She will not succeed Xiang Daofa even if he is transferred away. That's why she is willing to let it go after getting some benefits from him.

"In conclusion, my job has become easier after these few rounds of fighting." Xie Huilan held Dong Xuebing's hand and played with his fingers. "You had contributed a lot to this. Haha..."

Dong Xuebing shamelessly asked. "Am I getting any reward?"

Xie Huilan giggled. "What rewards do you want?"

Dong Xuebing wanted to tell her to he wants to touch her, but it's too obscene. He must not let Huilan thinks he is too desperate. "Since Xiang Daofa had given in, and your County Government gained from it, what about our Investment Promotion Agency? He had caused lots of trouble for us. Shouldn't he compensate us?"

"I will not forget about you all."

"Huh?"

"Do you still remember about the investor Xiang Daofa invited?"

"The one who is going to invest 40 million? Of course. I had spoken to him this afternoon. How can I forget about him?" Dong Xuebing will pay special attention to the investors who are about to sign contracts.

Xie Huilan smiles. "Secretary Xiang seems to be very close to this investor. I am not sure about their relationship, but he told me that he would speak to the investor again to double his investment. This is one of the conditions he offered to cover up the troubles his son caused."

Doubled of 40 million?!

80 million RMB?!

Dong Xuebing is overjoyed. This old bastard is paying a heavy price this time.

Dong Xuebing knows it's not an easy task to get an 80 million investment. If not, Xiang Daofa would have gotten it instead of 40 million when Jia Yan took over the investment fair. He must have paid a heavy price to get that investor to invest so much.

80 million...

Eh?!

Dong Xuebing suddenly brightens up. Maybe he can achieve the 500 million RMB target from this investment fair!

Report chapter Comments

Chapter 481 – 500 million completed!

One day...

Two days...

Three days...

The Labor Day Holidays is over, and it's time for the investment fair's closing ceremony.

Dong Xuebing is at Xiang Yi Hotel to check on the venue. "Director Luo, can you hurry them? Why is the venue not ready yet? The closing ceremony is about to start, and Mayor Xie is arriving in twenty minutes."

Luo Haiting quickly replied. "We are working on it, and it will be ready soon."

"Chief Lin!" Dong Xuebing asked. "Are the speeches ready?"

"Yes." Lin Pingping replied.

"Good. Old Sun, can you contact the investors who are signing the contracts again? Master Park is not here yet. Can you call them and see if they are caught up in the traffic? If they cannot get here in time, we can go and fetch them."

"Yes."

All the Investment Promotion Agency staff are energetic today. They had worked hard during the investment fair, and this is the time to see their results. Many staff is looking forward to it. Some of the investments are only finalized this morning, and no one knows how much investment they can raise from this fair. But Chief Dong looks confident, and they know it should be a large amount. It should be at least 150 million RMB.

150 million RMB...

Everyone from the Investment Promotion Agency will get credit for it!

Dong Xuebing is the busiest these few days. He worked from 6 am to 9 pm every day. Besides accompanying the investors to the sites, he also had to negotiate with them for each investment. The words he said over these two days are more than the total of words he said in the past year. His voice is hoarse from speaking too much. But after finalizing this morning's contract, he felt everything is worth it.

"Chief, the total amount of investment..." Jiang Hailiang could not hold back his curiosity.

Dong Xuebing smiles. "I will leave you all in suspense for now. You all will know later."

Jiang Hailiang wonders if the total amount is more than 150 million. Is it 200 million or more?!

After a while, the County Government Leaders arrived.

The TV station and newspaper reporters panned their cameras to the entrance.

Mayor Xie, who had dressed up for this occasion, is the first to enter the hotel lobby, followed by Zhao Xinglong, who is in charge of the County's investments, and County Government Office Director Yao Yi. This is to show the County Government's attitude towards this investment fair and get the credit for the fair's success. Everyone knows what Xiang Daofa's son did, and he was forced not to turn up for this important event.

Ten minutes later.

The hotel's ballroom. The closing ceremony had started.

This closing ceremony looks more like the contract signing ceremony. The last day of the investment fair is to see the result. But many investors still have not decided if they want to invest in the projects they saw yesterday, and no one knows how much investment they will get for this fair. This is the moment. Everyone is eager to see the fair's result. Some are waiting to see Mayor Xie and Dong Xuebing embarrass themselves. If they cannot even get 100 million RMB worth of investments, they will be a joke.

Clap... clap... Clap...

Lin Pingping steps onto the stage with a smile. "Good morning, Leaders and guests..."

There are about 100 people in the ballroom, as some investors had left. But some who have not decided on signing the contracts remained. The rests are the Government and Investment Promotion Agency's staff and reporters.

After Lin Pingping's opening speech, Xie Huilan and Zhao Xinglong went on to say something.

After that, it is the contract signing ceremony. Lin Pingping invited Dong Xuebing onto the stage.

Xie Huilan did not walks down the stage and stood there with a smile. Everyone knew that she is going to host the contract signing personally.

Dong Xuebing went onto the stage eagerly and announced the first investment project. It is an agricultural by-product investment. This investor, Li Jie, is one of the members of the Shandong investment group invited by Xie Huilan. Although Xie Huilan had only invited them to make up the numbers, some are interested in investing in the County. Li Jie is one of them, and Dong Xuebing accompanied him for two days to get him to invest. The total investment is around 20 million RMB.

The contract signing started.

The Investment Promotion Agency's staff had prepared the contract. The audience applause after Xie Huilan and Li Jie signed it. Li Jie held a 20 million enlarged ICBC check and gave it to Xie Huilan. Both shook hands, and reporters started taking pictures. That check is fake and is only a prop for photo taking.

After that, Dong Xuebing announced another project worth 30 million.

The Investment Promotion Agency had invited the investor.

The total investment is now 50 million RMB!

Sun Shuli, Luo Haiting, Lin Pingping, and the rest are excited. The Agency had raised 50 million now, and there's more..."

"Let's invite Mr. Zhou Zhengliang next." Dong Xuebing continued.

Zhou Zhengliang is the investor invited by Xiang Daofa.

Zhou Zhengliang went up the stage and gave a short speech about his analysis of Yan Tai County's economic environment before announcing his investment amount. 80 million RMB!

Luo Haiting took a deep breath and looked at Sun Shuli. 130 million RMB?!

The crowd also got excited. Many people felt Mayor Xie and Chief Dong are going to win big this time!

After Zhou Zhengliang signed the contract, Dong Xuebing announced Park Yongxi's name. Many people are concern about his investment because of what happened. Secretary Xiang had stuck his hands into the Agency's affairs and embarrassed himself. Park Yongxi had also changed his mind during that time, and everyone started paying attention to the amount.

Park Yongxi went up the stage and announced his investment!

120 million RMB! Not only did he not cancel his investment, and he even raises it by 20 million!

The Investment Promotion Agency's staff got more excited, and Sun Shuli and the other department heads are the most excited. The total investment raised is now 250 million RMB!

Even the TV station's staff are stunned. They had not expected Chief Dong to get such results from this fair.

250 million RMB!

How much investment did Yan Tai County have last year?

Before everyone gets over this excitement, Dong Xuebing made another announcement. "The next project is the final project. Haha... let's welcome Mu Zhengzhong, Teacher Mu, on the stage."

There's more?!

That's not the end?!

Not only the Yan Tai County Government staff are surprised, but many investors are also stunned. Teacher Mu is here to invest. Is he going to switch from antique collecting to investment?

Mu Zhengzhong picked up the microphone and smiled at the audience. "I have high hopes for Yan Tai County's future. I am going to make a long-term investment by building a hotel and investing in a commercial FB street here." He had reached an agreement with Dong Xuebing before coming to the investment fair. Although those exchanged relics cannot be auctioned, it's worth a few hundred million. Since Dong Xuebing does not want to accept any payments for the relics, he decided to return the favor by investing some money in the County and does not expect any returns from the hotel and FB street.

Everyone is shocked.

Hotel?

FB street?

These are all expensive projects! A hotel is at least ten to twenty stories and will cost more than 100 million RMB. How much is he going to invest?

The ballroom is quiet, and everyone is looking at Mu Zhengzhong.

Mu Zhengzhong paused for a second. "I will be investing... haha... a total of 200 million RMB!"

200 million RMB!

Everyone is shocked by this amount!

Xie Huilan and Zhao Xinglong knew about this before the ceremony and went on to the stage to sign the contract.

Many people are speechless when they look at that 200 million checks. Dong Xuebing! It's Dong Xuebing again! After he replaced Chief Jia as the investment fair's person in charge, he increased the number of participants from less than 10 to over 100 participants and even raised so many investments!

This investment fair had raised 450 million RMB worth of investment. With the 50 million RMB investment the Agency got before the fair, they had achieved the target of 500 million RMB! Not only had they completed it before the deadline, and they only took three months to do that. Even Fenzhou City and other Cities' Investment Promotion Agencies cannot raise 500 million RMB worth of investments within three months!

What is this capability?!

Who says Xie Huilan has no foresight for picking Dong Xuebing as her partner?! Who dares to say he is more capable than him in the County?!

At 10.30 am, the investment fair ended.

The Investment Promotion Agency and Dong Xuebing are in the spotlight again.

Actually, Dong Xuebing had not expected this. He was also not confident of achieving the 500 million RMB target. But it was achieved with just one investment fair. Is this time to consider promotion? Although he can't be promoted to a Deputy Divisional Chief, as he had become the Section Chief three to four months ago, he can transfer to another department with more power.

Report chapter Comments

Chapter 482 – Lao Gong...

Saturday.

Dong Xuebing woke up and stood in front of the windows. He yawned lazily as he listened to the birds chirping and closes his eyes to enjoy the warm breeze. He felt relaxed as the investment fair is over. He can finally have a good rest.

After eating two sunny-side-up eggs as breakfast, Dong Xuebing made a few calls.

Dong Xuebing's mother was transferred to a middle school in the City, and her phone is switched off. She might be teaching now.

Qu Yunxuan might be still sleeping as her phone is also off.

Xie Huilan's phone is on, but she had arrived at the County Government Office for work. A County's Mayor has lots of work and seldom gets rest days.

In the end, Dong Xuebing called Yu Meixia, and the line got through.

"Hello?" Yu Meixia answered timidly. "... Xiao Bing?"

"Hehe... it's me. What are you doing?"

"I am returning home after sending Qianqian to school."

"Are you alone?" Dong Xuebing blinked. "Are you free today? If you are not busy, I will go over to your place. I miss you."

Yu Meixia blushed, and she replied after a short pause. "Ok. I will be waiting for you at home."

"Alright. See you later."

"Ok. Bye."

Twenty minutes later. Hua Mei Estate.

Dong Xuebing parked his Santana and entered the building to Sister Yu's apartment.

The door opened, and Yu Meixia appeared before Dong Xuebing. It's been a while since Dong Xuebing met her. The scar on her face had disappeared, and she is prettier than before. Her hair is tied up in a bun, and she is wearing a long pastel dress, showing her shoulders and back. She is also wearing beige colored stockings.

Yu Meixia blushed as she saw Dong Xuebing staring at her.

Dong Xuebing entered the apartment and smiled. "Why is Qianqian going to school on Saturday?"

"It's her school's sports day, and she is participating in the long jump."

"Ah... I was weak at long jump when I was in school and had never passed the qualifying mark." Dong Xuebing sat on the sofa and took out a cigarette.

Yu Meixia quickly took out a lighter and lit it before helping Dong Xuebing change his shoes to slippers.

"What tea would you like?"

"Sister Yu, come over and sit with me."

Yu Meixia nodded and sat down beside Dong Xuebing.

Dong Xuebing could not hold back and started caressing her thighs.

Yu Meixia panics and asked. "You... I heard that you..."

"What did you hear?"

Yu Meixia had heard about Dong Xuebing getting arrested, being replaced as the person in charge of the investment fair, etc. But she is more concerned about another matter. "Is Mayor Xie and you... dating?"

Dong Xuebing nodded. "Yes."

Yu Meixia bit her lips and did not continue asking.

Dong Xuebing does not want to mention other women in front of Sister Yu. He looked at her and laid down on the sofa, using her thigh as a pillow. "Let's not talk about this. Switch on the TV and watch the news."

"Ok." Yu Meixia switched on the TV and started massaging Dong Xuebing's head.

Dong Xuebing always felt relaxed when he was with Yu Meixia. That's why he likes to look for her. "Are you working now?"

"I tried looking for a job but failed to get one."

"It's alright. You can just stay at home or go out with your friends."

"I... don't have any friends. When Qianqian is not around, I am alone..."

"Hmmm... do you want me to help you find a job?"

"No need."

"Sigh... you don't need to treat me like an outsider." Dong Xuebing knew Yu Meixia is not educated, has weak stamina and character. It's hard for her to find a suitable job. "It will be boring to stay at home alone. But I also don't want you to find a tiring job. What do you want to do?"

"I don't know."

"How about I keep a lookout for you?" Suddenly, the news reported about a piece of news about Fen Zhou City. The City's Community committee is hiring. Dong Xuebing said. "The Community committee job should suit you. Do you want me to get you this job? Will there be a written test? Test... oh... I forgot you are not highly educated. But never mind. You should pass the interview with no problems."

"Community committee? I can't do it."

"Be more confident. You can do it."

"... But it is the City Community Committee, and Qianqian still needs to go school..."

"My Mum had just been transferred to the City. You can transfer Qianqian to her school. The City's school is much better than our County."

"But the lodging... this apartment..."

"These are small issues. You can sell it and buy a new apartment in the City. Also, the City is not far from our County, and I can visit you anytime. I will also not be working in Yan Tai County forever. I plan to further my career in Fen Zhou City. Haha..."

"Are you transferred to the City?"

"I want to be transferred to the City Government, but it's hard."

Sister Yu has strong self-esteem and is reluctant to receive help from Dong Xuebing. He had wanted to set up a small shop like a florist, or bookshop, for her, but she refused to use his money. She is still thinking of ways to return the money she borrowed from him. The Community Committee is a government organization. Although it is not considered a civil servant, it has more prospects than being a supermarket cashier. Even if she cannot do the desk-bound work, she can do other things.

Dong Xuebing took note of it and did not continue. He wants to give Sister Yu time to consider. He will also move Yu Meixia to the City if he is transferred there in the future.

Five minutes...

Ten minutes...

The news ended.

Dong Xuebing's hand started roaming on Sister Yu's thighs again after the news. Her dress is slowly pushed up, exposing more of her stockings. He turned his head and started kissing her soft thighs. After a while, he tears the thin stockings with his teeth to expose her fair legs.

Yu Meixia quickly covered the tear. "Xiao Bing, don't..."

"Don't what?"

"My stockings are torn."

"I will use more pairs for you next time. Err... what's your size?"

"... stockings are mostly free size."

Dong Xuebing continued to tear her stockings with his teeth, making dozens of tears. He knows Yu Meixia is shy and went over to close the curtains and switch off the lights. After that, he carried and kissed her on her lips. His hand also reached under her dress.

Yu Meixia lowered her head and kissed Dong Xuebing's neck.

"Do you miss me?" Dong Xuebing asked.

Yu Meixia kept quiet.

"Silence means you miss me. Why didn't you call me? Didn't I tell you to call me when you are free? I was too busy recently to call you."

"I am afraid you are with Mayor Xie, and she... will know about us."

"Huh? You are overthinking too much."

Dong Xuebing carried Yu Meixia up, and her arms are around his neck. She asked softly. "You... what time are you leaving today?"

"I don't know. Why?"

"Qianqian missed you. I... if you are... can you stay longer? But it's alright if you are busy."

Dong Xuebing laughed and kissed her forehead. "Ok. I will accompany you today and will not leave."

Yu Meixia blushed. "It's not me... It's Qianqian..."

"Yes, yes... I am staying because Qianqian misses me."

"Ok."

"You are so adorable."

"... I'm not." Yu Meixia felt embarrassed to be called adorable by someone ten years younger than her.

"Let's go to the room."

Dong Xuebing carried Yu Meixia to her bed and slid her dress's shoulder straps down to her waist. She wants to remove her dress, but he refused. He insisted she keeps her dress and heels on.

"The bed is dirty. Can I remove my shoes?"

"It's fine. I will change the sheets later. You are sexy with heels."

"I'm not."

"Then why are you wearing it if it's not to show me?"

"No."

Dong Xuebing stopped teasing her and lifted both her legs up...

It's been a while since they got together. This session lasted more than an hour, and Dong Xuebing shamelessly insisted she calls him "Lao Gong" while panting.

Report chapter Comments

Chapter 483

– ...

Evening.

7.45 pm.

Dong Xuebing drove out of Yu Meixia's neighborhood in a good mood when his phone rang. It's Sister Xie's apartment number.

"Hello, Huilan. Did you finish work?"

"I just returned home. Haha... Where are you?"

"I was running some errands outside and is coming back."

"Alright. Come over to my place now."

"Tell me what it is about first. I am not going if you are going to talk about work. I finally got a few days' rests."

"Haha... it's not about work. I had bought a tailored suit for you a few days ago and received it today. Come over and see if it fits."

"Oh, why are you buying clothes for me? Alright. I will go over now."

Dong Xuebing's mood got even better. This is the first time Xie Huilan is giving him a gift. She had given him antique grasshopper pottery when they went to Liu Li Chang in Beijing. But that was a return gift to thank him, and it is different this time. Also, it is a tailored suit. He felt touched because she knows his measurements.

Dong Xuebing returned to the quarters within ten minutes.

Dong Xuebing pressed the doorbells and opened the door with his keys as no one opened it. He could smell the fragrance of shower gel and hear someone showering the moment he enters. He turned to the bathroom and went over to knock on the door.

"... Xiao Bing?" The water stopped.

"It's me. Are you bathing?"

"Yes. Please wait for me outside. The suit is on the sofa."

"Alright."

Xie Huilan's voice is different from other women's. It's not particularly graceful or sweet. It is very charming and special. Dong Xuebing is mesmerized by her voice and the nice fragrance from the shower.

What is going on with me?

Dong Xuebing felt embarrassed. He could not even see Xie Huilan in the bathroom, and he was mesmerized by her voice. Get a hold of yourself!

Dong Xuebing forced himself to step away from the bathroom and picks up the suit from the sofa.

It's a black suit and looks comfortable. But the packaging is all in English, and Dong Xuebing doesn't know the brand.

Dong Xuebing might have 200 million RMB worth of assets, but he doesn't know anything about international brands. He looked around and changed into the suit in the living room. He stood in front of the mirror and nodded. How does Sister Xie know about his measurements? It fit like a glove.

Suddenly, the bathroom door opens a gap.

"How is it? Is it fitting?"

"It's perfect. I love the cutting too. Thank you."

"Hehe... let me take a look..."

The door opens, and the steam and fragrance gushed out from the bathroom.

Xie Huilan is only wrapped in a towel.

It's not a bathrobe. It's a big white towel tied at the center of her chest. More than a third of her breasts is exposed, and the towel barely covers her perky butt and shows long slim legs.

Damn!

You are seducing me!

Dong Xuebing felt himself getting hotter as he looks at her body.

Xie Huilan flicked her wet hair to the back and walked over to Dong Xuebing with a smile. She straightens his collar and looks at him from top to toe. "It's quite fitting. Haha... you look good in it. Quite handsome."

Dong Xuebing smiled embarrassedly. "Handsome? Are you poking fun at me?"

"You are handsome." Xie Huilan smiles and straightens his suit while nodding. "Seems like I had made the right choice to buy it."

Dong Xuebing also likes this suit. "Why did you suddenly buy clothes for me?"

"It's Labor Day, and I want to get something for you."

"Err... I should also get you something. No, I will go to the mall tomorrow to pick something for you. Oh, what is your measurement?"

Xie Huilan laughed. "See for yourself."

Dong Xuebing swallowed his saliva and looked at her chest. Her cleavage is really deep, and he wants to put his hands into it. Her waist is very slim, and her butt is perky. The towel is wrapped around her tightly, and he could see the outline clearly. "I can't tell the measurements by looking. Can I use a measuring tape?"

"You are always trying to take advantage of me."

"No. That's because I want to buy clothing for you."

"You are full of excuses." Xie Huilan flicked her hair gracefully. "Alright. Watch TV by yourself first. I need to get dress and dry my hair."

Dong Xuebing replied. "It's fine like this."

Xie Huilan laughed. "It's not even summer, and it's still cold."

"Oh, then you should wear something before you catch a cold." Dong Xuebing cares for her and enters the bedroom with her. "I will blow dry your hair today to express my gratitude. Where's your hairdryer, and what hairstyle do you want?"

"I will do it myself."

"I will get pissed if you don't allow me to dry your hair. What hairstyle do you want?"

Xie Huilan laughed and shook her head. She sat on the chair in front of the mirror. "Just dry it. I tie up my hair in a bun all the time, and the style doesn't matter."

"Ok... I will style it for you."

Dong Xuebing dried Xie Huilan's hair and used the opportunity to touch her flawless face.

If I could marry her, I wouldn't have lived in vain in this life.

Report chapter Comments

Chapter 484 – Asking for a new position

Evening. Xie Huilan's apartment.

The TV shows a rerun of the news on the investment fair, and Xie Huilan is smiling and chatting with an investor on it.

"Huilan, you look good on TV."

"Really? I didn't notice it."

"You look beautiful on and off the TV."

"Haha... did you smear honey on your lips?"

"I am telling the truth."

Xie Huilan had changed into a beige long john after drying her hair and sat beside Dong Xuebing on the sofa to watch TV. She puts on a white blouse hanging on the sofa and sips on her teacup.

Every movement of hers is so perfect.

Lust took over, and Dong Xuebing reached over to Xie Huilan's butt to give it a light squeeze. It's soft.

Xie Huilan turns and looks at him. "Is there anything on my butt? Why are you squeezing it?"

"Err... there's an insect, and I killed it."

"Really?" Xie Huilan smiled. "Then should I thank you?"

"Ahh... no need." Dong Xuebing squeezed her butt again. "I killed another one."

Xie Huilan pushed Dong Xuebing's hand away. "Haha... it's past 9 pm. You should go back."

"I am not working tomorrow and can sleep later. Let me accompany you a while longer."

"If we wait anymore, there will be more insects in my clothes."

"It's true. Don't move. Let me get it out for you."

"Haha... don't worry about it." Xie Huilan laughed and pulled Dong Xuebing's hand away. "We are still not married. Stop it."

Fine. I can't take advantage of Sister Xie anymore.

Time passes quickly with Huilan, and it's 10 pm.

Dong Xuebing knows it's time for him to leave. He looked at the soft queen-size bed in Huilan's bedroom through the open doors and thought to himself. When can I sleep on it? He remembered about their marriage. Mdm. Han and Sister Xie's father said they could register their marriage after he is transferred from the County Government.

Dong Xuebing asked. "Huilan, can I be transferred now?"

Xie Huilan laughed. "Have you thought about it before asking this question?"

"I had thought about it." Dong Xuebing replied. "I had already completed the 500 million RMB target the County set for the Investment Promotion Agency in three months. It's 500 million. Do you think this is an easy task? The Agency might not even get more than 100 million RMB in the past. My performance is outstanding, and we might get more than 600 million RMB this year."

Xie Huilan puts down her teacup. "No one will doubt your capabilities, but you must remember that you had just gotten your promotion to Section Chief three months ago."

"I know it is impossible to be promoted to Deputy Divisional Chief. But I can be transferred to another department..."

"What's the difference with getting a promotion if you are going to be transferred to another department on the same level?"

Transferring to another department for the same rank's position have different meanings. For example, the Investment Promotion Agency's Chief getting a transfer to become the Finance Department's Chief, or the Cultural Department's Chief transferring to become a Town's Party Secretary, are considered promotions despite all these are Section Chief positions. Dong Xuebing had gotten 500 million RMB worth of investment for the County, and even the City Government is shocked. He cannot be transferred to another department without authority because of his achievements. He can only be transferred to a position with more authority. But he was only promoted three months ago, and his probation is not even over. It's too difficult.

Xie Huilan continued. "You have to wait for a year at least."

"A year?!" Dong Xuebing smiled wearily.

"Be content, and take a close look at your resume. How long did you take to get promoted from a Staff member to the Deputy Chief of your department? You only used a few months, while others need to use at least two to three years! How long did you take to get promoted to Deputy Section Chief of the County's Public Security Bureau? Six months! What about others? Even two to three years is considered fast! You are promoted to Section Chief on exceptional grounds in a year after your last promotion, and you are thinking of getting promoted after three months? Even if Secretary Xiang and I agree, do you think the City Government will agree?"

"You are right."

"It's rare to see Section Chief below 25 years old in the government service, and you can't get promoted. You will need to wait for at least one year."

Dong Xuebing also knows it's quite impossible. Other civil servants will be jumping with joy if promoted every three years, but he does not want to stop.

"Also, have you thought about which department you want to be transferred to?"

"... the No. 1 of a village town? If it's not possible, the No. 2 is also fine."

"This might be a good choice of others. Getting experience in a village town and then move up the ranks. But... I don't think this path is good for you."

"Eh? Why?"

Xie Huilan patted the back of Dong Xuebing's hand. "No one can have a smooth career forever in the government service, and it's not a good thing to stand out too much. You had stood out when you are with the Public Security, and I wanted you to stay low by transferring you to the Investment Promotion Agency. But you completed the target within a short time. Hehe... your capabilities might limit your career if you are transferred to become the No. 1 of a village town. Also, you are too young to become a village town's Party Secretary."

"What's wrong with being capable?"

"You will understand this in the future."

Dong Xuebing shook his head. "Are you telling me to pick an average department to stay low for some time?"

"This is only my suggestion, but it is still too early to talk about this. Haha... It is not up to me to decide which department has vacancies. Just wait for one or two years first."

Do I still need to wait for one to two years?

Actually, Dong Xuebing does not care about the department or the power that comes with it. It will be the same everywhere. Yan Tai County's Investment Promotion Agency is also an unpopular department, and he can also achieve outstanding results. He is more concerned about getting promoted because he wants to get married to Xie Huilan. He is sick of being targeted by Xiang Daofa. He just wanted a change of environment. Of course, he also doesn't want to be working in the Sports Administration or the Culture Department. If he is going to be downgraded, he might as well remain with the Agency for a few more years.

Dong Xuebing wants to be transferred to a good department, but it must not have too much power. It would be best if he can get transferred to the City... He suddenly realized he is too greedy.

But Dong Xuebing still wants to try to get a promotion as it is not his style to wait for things to happen.

After setting this target, Dong Xuebing will find the opportunity to get promoted.

Ring... ring... ring... Xie Huilan's phone rang.

Dong Xuebing stood up. "Go ahead and answer it. I will go back now."

Xie Huilan nodded. "Stop thinking about getting a transfer, and focus on the investors. Make sure those investors' capital investments are in as this is critical for you."

"I know."

"Haha... sleep early. Good night."

"Good night."

Xie Huilan answered the call after Dong Xuebing left. "Hello..."

Dong Xuebing returned to his apartment, washed up, and got under his covers. His phone rang. It was Xie Huilan.

Dong Xuebing answered. "What's wrong?"

"I heard the City would be organizing an investment fair in Japan, Tokyo, in a few days. This was planned from last year and had contacted Japanese companies and investors. This was supposed to be Feng Zhou City's investment fair, but the City Government decided to let the Counties' Investment Promotion Agency participate too."

"You are asking me to go?"

"It's not compulsory, but the City is taking a serious view on this event. You should attend as the Agency's Chief."

"How many people can I bring?"

"About three or four will do. The City's Investment Promotion Agency will give you all the details tomorrow morning. You can give them the name list then."

"Ok. I will make arrangements tomorrow."

"You had worked hard these few days and can treat this as a vacation. Haha."

Dong Xuebing thought nothing about it and fell asleep after hanging up. The City's Investment Promotion Agency should have plans for this investment fair, and the Counties' Agencies are only there to accompany the City's officials. The County Agencies will stand no chance of getting any investments from the fair. If he can get more investments for Yan Tai County on top of the existing 500 million RMB, they have now, his chances of promotion might be higher.

Forget it. It's too early to think about these now.

It will be great if he can bring in more investments. If not, he will just treat it as a vacation.

Dong Xuebing yawned and slowly drifted to sleep.

Report chapter Comments

Chapter 485 – Name list to go aboard

Monday morning.

Yan Tai County's Investment Promotion Agency.

Jia Yan drove a Jetta into the Agency as Dong Xuebing parked his car.

"Oh, Chief Jia. How are you feeling?"

"... I'm fine."

"You should get more rest if you are not feeling well. Health is more important."

"Thank you for your concern. I can still take it."

"Haha... Good to hear that."

Dong Xuebing pretended not to see Jia Yan's grim expression. He patted his shoulder to show his 'concern.' The Investment Promotion Agency and the County Government are the biggest winners of the investment fair, followed by Xie Huilan and Dong Xuebing. On the other hand, Xiang Daofa and Jia Yan are badly affected. They did not get any credits from the fair and even embarrassed themselves.

Dong Xuebing met Sun Shuli on his way upstairs.

"Chief."

"Old Sun, why are you so early today?"

"Oh, the initial investments for three projects will be coming in today, and it includes Mr. Park and Mr. Mu's investments. I don't want anything to go wrong and came earlier to watch over it." Sun Shuli's attitude towards Dong Xuebing had changed these few days. He is no longer feeling sore for not becoming the Chief and started showing signs he leaning towards Dong Xuebing. He started to report about his work progress more frequently.

"Alright. You must watch over it carefully and try to get the investments in."

The investments, construction, projects are all in place, and everything is going smoothly for the Agency.

Sun Shuli nodded and asked. "Oh, Chief. I heard the City would be going to Tokyo for an investment fair in a few days. Is our County going to send people over?"

"Yes."

"Then..."

Sun Shuli did not express he wants to go explicitly, but Dong Xuebing can tell from his tone.

Dong Xuebing replied helplessly. "Old Sun, I am not trying to brush you aside. The County Government had assigned me to lead the team, and I need you to watch over the Agency when I am not around. Our Agency had gotten many investments and who is going to oversee all the work if you are going with me? Chief Jia? You should know Old Jia's health is not good, and I am worried to hand things over to him."

Sun Shuli laughed. Jia Yan's health condition is the Agency's joke now.

Dong Xuebing returned to his office, and someone knocks on his door.

"Come in."

"... Chief."

Dong Xuebing saw a pair of legs in beige stockings, white knee-length dress with big flower prints. He knew it was Luo Haiting without even looking up. He puts down the document he was reading. "Haha... Sister Luo. You are looking beautiful today."

Luo Haiting closes the door behind her and smiled sweetly. "I'm an old hag now."

"Are you being modest?" Dong Xuebing gestured to the seat in front. "Have a seat."

Luo Haiting straightens her dress before sitting down. "I heard the City's Investment Promotion Agency is going to Tokyo to get investors. Is our Agency's name list..."

"This is not confirmed, and I had wanted to talk to you about it. You will prepare the list but exclude Old Sun, Section Chief Lin, and Section Chief Jiang. The Agency still needs them."

Luo Haiting looked at Dong Xuebing and asked embarrassedly. "Then the Office Department... can I..."

Dong Xuebing saw Luo Haiting stuttering and knew she also wants to go. Why is everyone so excited about this trip? But he thought about it and understood. The Investment Promotion Agency had been neglected for too long, and they could not get funding or powers and were excluded from any county government's work trips. This time, Yan Tai County will be sending them to Tokyo without any important assignment. It is equivalent to an overseas paid vacation for a few days. Everyone doesn't want to miss this opportunity.

Dong Xuebing thought for a while. He had wanted to bring Guo Panwei with him, but Luo Haiting had worked hard during the fair and is eager to go for this trip. "Alright. Ensure to hand over your work to Panwei properly before the trip and let him take over the Office Department temporarily. You will come with me to Tokyo."

Luo Haiting is ecstatic. "Thank you, Chief."

"Ok. Let's confirm the remaining two spots. Who do you think is suitable?"

"I think we can include Business Section One's Zhang Fan. He is very hardworking, and I saw him drinking with the investors during the fair every night. I heard he was even sent to the hospital twice for drinking too much."

Dong Xuebing nodded. "I know about Xiao Zhang, and we should reward people like him. Alright. We will include him for this trip, and the Agency will give him an additional 10,000 RMB as a bonus this month." The Agency has money now, and giving out additional bonuses of 10,000 or 20,000 RMB is nothing.

Luo Haiting immediately took out a notebook to note it.

Suddenly, Dong Xuebing felt a ticklish feeling on his leg, and it felt like a foot is brushing against his leg. He leaned back and took a glance beneath his desk. He saw a high heel on the floor, and a foot is moving up and down against his leg. His pants' material is thin, and he can feel Sister Luo's toes through her stockings.

This Sister Luo...

Dong Xuebing is speechless. After his relationship with Xie Huilan is exposed, he thought Luo Haiting would not flirt with him anymore. But it seems she thought nothing of it.

Luo Haiting continued normally as if she is not doing anything. "Then what about the last person?"

"Oh..." Dong Xuebing regained his senses. "We will be talking to Japanese businessmen. Do we have anyone in the Agency that can speak Japanese?"

"I think so." Luo Haiting thought for a while. "We have a new staff member who had just graduated from the Office Department. I think he studied Japanese at his university. I will check with him later."

"Alright. I will leave it to you."

Sister Luo used her foot to brush against Dong Xuebing's leg again.

Dong Xuebing took a deep breath and calmly replied. "You must also prepare the materials and brochures before the trip, and it must be in Japanese. Even if we cannot get any investments, we must also gain rapport with those investors."

"Yes." Luo Haiting wrote it in her notebook.

Dong Xuebing's heart skipped a beat as he felt another foot brushing against his leg.

Report chapter Comments

Chapter 486 – Arrested by the Airport Police

One day...

Two days...

Three days...

Mu Zhengzhong's hotel project has started getting tenders, and other projects from the investment fairs had started their construction. Dong Xuebing had been busy with these, but their Agency has to coordinate between the investors and the relevant departments. The other departments will take care of the rest, as the construction.

Soon, it's time for them to go overseas.

Morning.

"Old Sun, please watch over the Agency when I am not around."

"Leave it to me, Chief."

"Panwei, you must assist Chief Sun and take care of the Office Department."

"... Yes, Sir."

Dong Xuebing gave some instructions to them outside of the Agency. He waved to Luo Haiting, Zhang Fan, and the other staff member to board his black Porsche Cayenne before driving to Beijing. The City had prepared their passport, but there are no direct flights from Hebei Province to Tokyo. They must fly from Beijing.

On board the car.

Luo Haiting felt uncomfortable. "Chief, let Xiao Zhang drive."

Zhang Fan also felt it's not right for Dong Xuebing to drive them to Beijing.

Dong Xuebing waved his hand. He had not driven his car in Yan Tai County these few days and want to drive it. "It's alright. Oh, what's your name?"

"Chief Dong, my name is Yu Rui."

Yu Rui is a staff member who knows Japanese in his early twenties.

Dong Xuebing nodded. "Xiao Yu, we will count on you to translate for us in Japan."

Yu Rui quickly reply. "Yes, Sir. I will do my best to complete this task."

"Xiao Yu is hardworking." Luo Haiting laughed. "He had been working hard since he came to the Office Department, and he is the one who translated all our marketing materials. He is quite capable." Luo Haiting might not be interested in her work. Still, she has a good relationship with her staff in the Office Department. She seldom reprimands her staff when they make mistakes and will praise them in front of the Leaders.

Yu Rui is grateful to Director Luo for praising him in front of Chief Dong, and he replied modestly. "I had just graduated from University and still have a lot to learn."

Dong Xuebing nodded. "Haha... it's good to be young."

...

9 am.

Beijing International Airport.

It's crowded in the departure hall. Dong Xuebing and Luo Haiting walked in front, and Zhang Fan followed behind with the luggage. Their luggage contained all the promotional materials for the investment fair and needed to be checked in. Yu Rui went to the check-in counters to check-in for them. The City Government Leaders will be traveling tomorrow, while Yan Tai County and other Counties' investment Promotion Agency staff will be flying today. They must set up the venue before the leaders.

One can spend a thousand days in comfort at home, but spending a day away from home can be challenging.

Luo Haiting knows this. They might be Leaders in Yan Tai County but are nothing in Beijing. That's why they need to stay low here. You could accidentally step on a stranger's foot, and that person might be a high-ranking government official.

"Chief, it's all ready."

"Let's go in. We are slightly late. The other Investment Promotion Agencies' staff should have arrived."

"Let me carry your bag for you."

"No need."

A few drug sniffer dogs are running around in the departure hall.

Dong Xuebing looked around the immigration and customs counters. He remembered how he smuggled the relics he stole from Japan's National Museum. He hopes everything will be fine when he goes to Tokyo this time.

It's their turn to go through the security checks.

"Chief, please go first." Luo Haiting stepped aside to let Dong Xuebing go first.

Dong Xuebing smiled. "Ladies first."

Luo Haiting giggled and went through the checks.

Dong Xuebing looks at his watch. They still have an hour before the flight departs, and there's no hurry.

But at this moment, something happened!

Two airport staff checked Luo Haiting's bag and saw some cosmetics. Her clothes and other personal belongings are checked in, and she is only carrying a small bag. One of the staff took out something wrapped in newspapers from her bag. He unwrapped it, and it is two apples.

Bringing apples to eat onboard the plane is fine, but the problem lies in the piece of newspaper used to wrap them!

No one will notice the words on the crumpled newspaper, but that custom staff spotted it. He frowned and stopped Luo Haiting before signaling to his coworker.

Luo Haiting is puzzled. "What is happening?"

"What do you think?" That staff rudely replied. "Stay here and wait."

Dong Xuebing frowned and walked over. "What's wrong? Apples are not allowed to be brought onto the plane?"

"Are you two together?" That staff looks at them and points to the words in the newspaper. "Look at it this yourself. How can you bring such things around?!"

Dong Xuebing and the rest looked at the newspaper. It's a promotional brochure for "Quan Zhi Gong"!

Luo Haiting turns pale! Quan Zhi Gong?! That is a cult targeted by the Government! She works in the Government and knows about it.

Dong Xuebing is speechless. Why does trouble follow him everywhere?

Before they can say anything, the Airport Police arrived.

"Come with us!"

"Team Leader Sun. These people are together." The airport staff said.

"... all of you follow us!"

"Wait. This newspaper..."

"You can explain later!"

Team Leader Sun waved his hand, and Luo Haiting and the rest are led away.

Report chapter Comments

Chapter 487 – Chief Feng's phone call

Airport.

China Eastern Airlines Police Station.

Dong Xuebing, Luo Haiting, and the rest are brought to a small room, but Team Leader Sun didn't question them. He locked them in the room and left.

Luo Haiting apologized. "Chief, I don't know anything about that newspaper. This..."

Dong Xuebing waved his hand. "It's alright."

"But the flight..."

"There's still time."

Dong Xuebing knew this is an accident. Quan Zhi Gong has been giving out their promotional materials aggressively and can be found in almost every household. They will stuff it into the residences' mailboxes, and anyone can bring it back accidentally. Luo Haiting must have grabbed a piece of newspaper to wrap her apples without noticing it. If she knows this newspaper is promotional material for Quan Zhi Gong, she will never use it. The problem now is how are they going to explain themselves.

Five minutes...

Ten minutes...

Twenty minutes passed, and the door opened again. Three men in Police uniforms entered.

Dong Xuebing noticed these people's uniforms are different from the Airport Police. Although the Police Officers at the airport are also called Police, they are not hired under Beijing Public Security Bureau. They are hired by the airlines. These three officers should be from Chao Yang Police Station, and one of them should be a Deputy Chief. Dong Xuebing knows this is going to be troublesome as it involves politics. The Airport Police does not want to get involved and referred this case to the local Public Security Bureau.

"Is this Quan Zhi Gong's brochure yours?" The Deputy Chief looks at them coldly.

Luo Haiting quickly reply. "It's in my bag, but it is not mine. Someone might have put it in my mailbox, and I used it to wrap apples without noticing it."

The Deputy Chief asked. "Your name?"

Luo Haiting frowned and replied. "Luo Haiting."

The Deputy Chief continued asking, and another officer quickly records it. "Your occupation?"

"Fen Zhou City, Yan Tai County Investment Promotion Agency." Luo Haiting paused for a second. She still wants to catch her flight and doesn't want to waste time. "Office Director."

The Deputy Chief looks at her. "Government Servant?"

Luo Haiting took out her work pass and put it on the table. "I believe all of you should know this is a misunderstanding. If I am going to promote Quan Zhi Gong, I will not put it in my bag. Furthermore, I am a Party member, and I know what I should not do. We need to catch our flight to Tokyo to attend our City's investment fair. Chief, can you let this pass?"

The Deputy Chief refused. "You are not allowed to leave even if you are government staff. Come with me to our station, and we can talk about it after we recorded your statement."

Luo Haiting turns pale. "How long will it take?"

"Don't think of catching the flight today. Bring them back." Luo Haiting is only a small County Leader, and the Deputy Chief is not bothered.

Luo Haiting cannot accept this!

Dong Xuebing is also mad. "It's not that serious."

The Deputy Chief replied coldly. "You all are government staff and should know this is not a small issue." He waved that piece of Quan Zhi Gong brochure. "This is a critical period, and you all still dare to bring it on board the plane? You all are asking for it. It's your fault for not noticing it, and we are just doing our work. Pack your things and follow us back to the station. Hurry up!"

Hmph! You still dare to scold me?!

Dong Xuebing is furious. "Hey, you must be flexible when attending to cases and not jump to conclusions! How many people are you going to catch if you blow things up for every case you attend?"

Another officer shouted. "Who are you to say this?!"

The Deputy Chief looks at Dong Xuebing. "We don't need you to teach us how to do things!"

Dong Xuebing's exploded as it's getting nearer to their flight departure. "Don't bullshit with me. Are you investigating this case?! You are picking on us! You had seen our documents and know our workplace. What else do you need to know? Huh? This is only a misunderstanding, and you want to escalate it?! Stop showing me this attitude!"

Yu Rui is sweating as he thought to himself. Chief Xiao Dong had started arguing with the Deputy Chief, and they are in Beijing now! This is not Yan Tai County, and they...

"Shut up!" The Deputy Chief also got mad. "Are you all refusing to come with us?"

The two Officers behind him took out their handcuffs.

Luo Haiting quickly steps in front of Dong Xuebing. "What are you all trying to do?! The brochure is found in my bag and has nothing to do with my Leader!"

The Officers are stunned. The youngest person in the group is their Leader?!

But the Deputy Chief doesn't care. He is determined to bring them back, even if he is a County Mayor.

Ring... ring... the Deputy Chief's phone rang.

He looks at the number and answers. "Hello, Chief Yang..."

"Are you not in the station?"

"No. I am attending to a case at the airport. We have arrested a group with Quan Zhi Gong's brochure."

"I met Chief Feng from the City Bureau during a meeting at a branch station. He is here for a sudden inspection." He lowered his voice. "Get back to the station and get ready. I am afraid Chief Feng will inspect our station in the afternoon."

"Chief Feng? Ok. I will return after I arrested these people."

"He might not be inspecting our station, but we must be ready for him."

"I understand."

The airport is an important location, and the City Government is particular about it. Every time the City Bureau Leaders inspect Chao Yang Police Station, they drop by their station for an inspection. Of course, they know Chief Feng might not come, but they must be ready for him.

The mobile phone is loud, and Dong Xuebing and the rest could hear their conversation.

Dong Xuebing looks at the Deputy Chief and doesn't want to waste time. He stood up and snatched the phone from him.

The Deputy Chief is shocked. "What are you doing?!"

Dong Xuebing ignored him and said to the phone. "Hello, this is someone else. Are you Chief Yang?!"

A middle-aged man replied. "Who are you?"

"You don't know me. Is Chief Feng from the City Bureau inspecting at your side? Pass the phone to him."

Everyone in the room is stunned. Pass the phone to Chief Feng? Are you drunk?

The Bureau Chief on the other line paused and asked. "Who are you?"

"I am Dong Xuebing. Just tell Chief Feng it's me, and he will answer!"

The Deputy Chief felt Dong Xuebing is arrogant, and even Luo Haiting, Zhang Fan, and Yu Rui did not expect him to say this. Chief Feng? Feng Xueliang?! He is the City's Public Security Bureau Chief.

The Chief, on the other line, is smarter than this Deputy Chief. He thought for a few seconds after hearing what Dong Xuebing said.

Dong Xuebing did not get any reply and said. "Are you not going to pass the phone? Fine. I will call him myself."

"Wait... Please wait for a while." Feng Xueliang is not far from that Chief and is surrounded by Branch Bureau Chiefs. He is only a Police Station Chief from a small station near the Airport. He is not qualified to accompany Chief Feng for his inspection. But after hearing what Dong Xuebing said, he got worried as he doesn't know about his background.

Dong Xuebing doesn't care what that Chief is thinking and waits.

About 30 seconds later, Feng Xueliang answered the phone. "Xiao Dong?"

Dong Xuebing replied. "Chief Feng, sorry to interrupt your inspection."

"Haha... Are you looking for me?"

"It's like this. Our City had organized an investment fair in Tokyo, and when one of my colleagues accidentally used a Quan Zhi Gong's newspaper to warp two apples..."

"Alright. I understand. Pass the phone to the person in charge there."

"Thank you, Chief Feng."

"Haha... it's a small matter."

Dong Xuebing returned the phone to that Deputy Chief. "Chief Feng wants you to answer."

The Deputy Chief took a deep breath. He had not expected to speak to Chief Feng over the phone and answered after composing himself and leaving the room. "Chief Feng..."

Two minutes later, the Deputy Chief returned with a smile and shook Dong Xuebing's hand. "Sorry for all the trouble, comrade. It's our fault for not checking this thoroughly. This is a critical period, and we had no choice. Sorry."

Dong Xuebing did not go overboard. "I worked in the Public Security before and can understand. It's just a misunderstanding."

"That's right! It's a misunderstanding." The Deputy Chief asked. "What time is your flight?"

Dong Xuebing looks at his watch. "It should be boarding now, and I'm not sure if we can get on board in time."

"I will escort you all to the flight!"

The Deputy Chief did not delay their time anymore and escorted them to the gate hold room, skipping all the security checks. He sighed in relief after Dong Xuebing and the rest boarded the plane.

Zhang Fan and Yu Rui looked at each other, not knowing what to say.

"I'm sorry, Chief Dong. I did not notice..." Luo Haiting apologized.

Dong Xuebing shook his head. "It's a coincidence, and it's not your fault. Just be more careful next time. Let's go."

Luo Haiting was also shocked earlier. She had not heard Chief Dong has powerful backings in the past. But he can chase Xin Hua News Agency reporters away with just a phone call and even knows Beijing's Public Security Bureau Chief.

This...

All of them started wondering about Dong Xuebing's background.

Report chapter Comments

Chapter 488 – Someone that looks familiar

Afternoon.

Japan, Tokyo International Airport.

After leaving the immigration and collecting their luggage, they saw two young men holding a Chinese sign outside. These two men are there to fetch the staff from the Investment Promotion Agencies. They are from the City's Agency and had arrived earlier to make preparations. There is a group of people standing in front of them who looks familiar to Dong Xuebing. He had met some of them during a meeting at the City Investment Promotion Agency. They were on the same flight, but they boarded the plane last and were seated at the front.

Dong Xuebing walks over to them with Zhang Fan, Yu Rui, and Luo Haiting following behind.

"Chief Dong? How come I did not see you all during boarding?"

"We are delayed at the customs."

"It's good that you can make it on time. Alright. Everyone is here."

The person talking to Dong Xuebing is a middle-aged man in his forties and is wearing an expensive suit. Dong Xuebing had never spoken to him before. He had only attended a City Investment Promotion Agency meeting once and know this person is Pang Zhengyi, the Nan Shan District Investment Promotion Agency's Chief. The staff from other districts also arrived, and a large group is formed.

It suddenly becomes chaotic when there is a big group.

All the Chiefs, regardless of their districts or Counties, are holding the same rank, and there is no one to lead them. All the Chiefs have their plans, and some even started arguing.

The argument is over a minor issue.

Although the staff had arrived in Japan earlier and is at the airport to receive them, they did not arrange transportation. They do not have an office in Japan, and everyone has to take a taxi. But a dispute arises over where they should go first. Some want to go to the hotel, but some want to visit the venue. They are afraid the venue cannot be set up in time for tomorrow's fair.

Dong Xuebing did not join in the argument and walked out to have a smoke.

Zhang Fan notices Dong Xuebing taking out his cigarette and quickly took out a lighter. But Luo Haiting snatched the lighter from him and lit the cigarette.

"Thank you." Dong Xuebing took a few puffs and felt better.

Luo Haiting is upset over the incident earlier and felt she had caused trouble for Dong Xuebing. She kept the lighter in her bag and told Zhang Fan that she needs it to light Chief Dong's cigarettes next time.

"Japan's air quality is quite good."

"That's right. I can feel it the moment we got off the plane."

The four of them chatted and joked, while the rest are arguing not far from them. Dong Xuebing might be infamous in Yan Tai County, but he had not caused any trouble in the City. Many of them know Yan Tai County's Investment Promotion Agency had achieved outstanding results this year under his leadership, and some heard he is aggressive. But they don't know much about him.

Ten minutes later, there is a conclusion.

It seems that Nan Shan District's Investment Promotion Agency's Chief Pang Zhengyi had suggested hiring a bus while they take taxis to the hotel to drop their luggage. The bus will then send them to the venue from the hotel.

Dong Xuebing is fine with it and asked Yu Rui to note the hotel's address before boarding a taxi.

Yu Rui told the driver the address, and the driver nodded.

Luo Haiting suddenly moved closer and whispered. "Chief Pang Zhengyi... is Da Feng County's former Investment Promotion Agency's Chief Pang's cousin."

Dong Xuebing was surprised. "Huh? Really?"

"I think so. But they didn't seem to be close from what I heard."

Dong Xuebing nodded and made a mental note. He causes pang Zhou's dismissal, and Pang Zhengyi should not have a good impression of him. But he did not notice anything amiss from their interactions earlier. He asked Luo Haiting about the rest of the group, but she does not know most of them.

...

Hotel.

Dong Xuebing took a hot shower in his room after dropping off his luggage.

This should be a 5-stars hotel which is booked by the local authorities. But they did not arrange buses and other services for them, and Dong Xuebing felt this is unacceptable. When Japanese investors went to Yan Tai County, Xiang Daofa received them and made all sorts of arrangements.

Dong Xuebing's phone rang when he was drying his hair.

"Hello, who's that?"

"I'm Pang Zhengyi. Are you Chief Dong?"

"Oh, Chief Pang." Dong Xuebing narrowed his eyes. "It's me."

"The bus is here, but there are some issues with the venue's electrical system, and it will be shut down in the afternoon. Today's schedule is temporarily canceled."

"What about the venue set up?"

"We have to go over to the venue earlier tomorrow morning. I hope we can set up in time."

After hanging up, Dong Xuebing felt the local authorities are unreliable.

After drying his hair, Dong Xuebing called Luo Haiting, Zhang Fan, and Yu Rui to his room. He told them about the cancellation after they arrive.

"Then today..." Luo Haiting looks at Dong Xuebing.

Zhang Fan also waited for Dong Xuebing's further instructions.

Dong Xuebing knows what they are thinking and laughed. "It's free and easy today. You all just need to be careful when you all go out. It will be best to go out with a partner."

"Yes." Zhang Fan and the rest are waiting for Dong Xuebing to say this.

Dong Xuebing added. "Keep all the transportation, food, etc., receipts for reimbursement claims after we get back. The Agency will reimburse any purchases under 5,000 RMB." Transportation, food, and lodging are fine, but shopping reimbursements are considered a benefit, and 5,000 RMB is a lot. He wants to reward them, and it's rare for them to travel. Anyway, the Agency is rich now.

Zhang Fan is overjoyed. They can even reimburse their shopping expenses up to 5,000 RMB?!

Zhang Fan and Yu Rui left happily to contact other staff members from other Agencies to go out.

Luo Haiting remained in the room.

Dong Xuebing noticed Sister Luo had changed her clothes. She is wearing a black dress with red flower prints and a pair of white heels. Her dressing is more exaggerated than what she wears to work. She also seems to have taken a shower as he can smell shampoo fragrance.

"Chief, can I have the honor to invite you to shop with me?" Luo Haiting smiled.

Dong Xuebing thought for a while. They are not in Yan Tai County and do not need to be mindful of gossips. "Sure. Let's go. Haha... just don't blame me for walking too slow."

"No. I will accompany you wherever you go."

"I am not buying anything. Let's just walk around."

They left the hotel and started walking around the hotel.

Tokyo, or Japan, does not have North or South streets. The roads are all over the place, and it's hard to differentiate the direction. Dong Xuebing wrote down the hotel's name before they left, as it will be easier for them to return if they are lost.

Soon, they saw a large shopping mall in front of them.

Dong Xuebing and Luo Haiting entered the mall and started shopping. He is speechless to see Luo Haiting shops. She bought a dress, two sets of cosmetics, and even a pair of stockings in front of him.

Dong Xuebing felt all these could be bought in China.

They conversed in English with the staff and went to have a quick meal at a fast-food restaurant before returning to the hotel.

A drunk man stumbled into Dong Xuebing when he stepped out of the taxi.

The man is in his fifties and is wearing a suit. He is well dressed, but he smells of alcohol.

Dong Xuebing quickly supported him. "Hey!"

That man looks at Dong Xuebing. "Hotel... Is this... my hotel?"

That man is speaking in Mandarin.

Luo Haiting quickly walks over with her shopping bags.

Dong Xuebing frowned as he looks at this man. He finds his looks familiar. Most people he felt familiar with are the people he met before on TV or in real life. But this person is different. He knows he had never seen him before, but he still finds him familiar.

"Hey, Bro. Wake up." Luo Haiting called him.

That drunkard mumbled something and fell asleep against Dong Xuebing.

"Chief, he..." Luo Haiting looks at Dong Xuebing.

Dong Xuebing tried to recall where he had met this person and replied. "Let's help him into the hotel. We are all Chinese and should help one another." Dong Xuebing has always been helpful and does not want to dump this person by the roadside. Furthermore, he finds this person resembling someone he knows.

"... ok."

Luo Haiting carried her shopping bags in one hand and helped Dong Xuebing support that man into the hotel with her other hand.

Report chapter Comments

Chapter 489 – Liu Chenlong

Next morning.

Tokyo, Hotel.

A phone call disrupted dong Xuebing's sleep. It's a Fen Zhou City's staff who called to inform him that the bus will be arriving in one hour. They must gather in front of the hotel to go to the venue. Dong Xuebing looks at his watch. It's 6 am, but he knows the City leaders will be arriving before noon, and they must set up the venue before them. He yawned and got out of bed to get change and wash up.

Ding dong... ding dong...

Luo Haiting entered after Dong Xuebing opened the door. "Chief."

Sister Luo had changed into the new clothes she bought yesterday. It's fashionable and not suitable for someone her age. But... she looks good in it.

Dong Xuebing mumbled something with his toothbrush sticking out and gestured to her to wait before going to the bathroom to rinse her mouth.

Dong Xuebing was shocked to see Sister Luo making his bed when he comes out of the bathroom.

He smiles. "Sister Luo, the hotel staff will clean up the room later..."

Luo Haiting smiled and placed the pillows. "I had caused some troubles for you yesterday at the custom and felt bad. Just let me do something for you. Haha..."

"Sign... why are you still talking about that incident?" Dong Xuebing waved his hand and took out a cigarette. "It's an accident, and doesn't think too much of it."

Luo Haiting picks up the lighter on the table and lit Dong Xuebing's cigarette. But she purposely leans her chest against Dong Xuebing's right arm to lit the cigarette. Dong Xuebing felt his arm is buried in the soft meaty sensations.

It's ticklish, soft and warm...

Dong Xuebing is used to Sister Luo's 'accidental touches' and did not show any expression.

"Thank you." Dong Xuebing took a few puffs and wait until Sister Luo move away from his arm. After that, he discussed the work arrangements with her. "The brochures and materials must be arranged neatly at a prominent place. Although our County is not the focus of this investment fair, we must still communicate with the foreign investors."

Luo Haiting sat beside Dong Xuebing and recorded in her notebook.

Sister Luo had placed her notebook on her lap, and the seams of the dress were pushed up to write better. Her long dress had become a super mini skirt, exposing both her thighs.

Dong Xuebing's heart was racing, and he cleared his throat.

Luo Haiting continued recording her notes as if she did not hear his hint.

After finishing the work discussion, Luo Haiting looks up. "Oh Chief, the drunk man we sent to Zhang Fan's room last night is awake."

Dong Xuebing nodded. "Is he coming to attend this investment fair?"

"I don't think so. Zhang Fan told me he is here for work."

"Fine. I will visit him later."

The doorbell rings as they were talking.

Dong Xuebing took a glance at Luo Haiting's exposed thighs and went over to open the door.

Zhang Fan and that middle-aged man are standing outside.

"Chief, you are awake?" Zhang Fan asked.

Dong Xuebing nodded. "We are leaving for the venue in half an hour. Go and notify Xiao Yu and get ready."

"Yes." Zhang Fan replied and looked at Luo Haiting before leaving.

Dong Xuebing turns and is amused. Luo Haiting had pulled down her dress to beneath her knees, covering her thighs within a few seconds, and she is holding a lot of documents and promotion materials. She had also moved from the bed to the sofa.

This Sister Luo...

Dong Xuebing shook his head and looked at that man. He looks quite handsome and is very different from last night.

"Hi." Dong Xuebing extended his hand. "Last night, you..."

"I heard what happened from Xiao Zhang." The middle-aged man shook Dong Xuebing's hand. "Thank you, young man. If it were not for you, I would have spent the night by the roadside."

Dong Xuebing laughed. "Don't mention it. We are all Chinese and should help each other."

"I am Liu Chenlong. How do I address you?"

Dong Xuebing invited him into the room as he still has time. He also wants to find out more about him as he still finds him very familiar. "I am Dong Xuebing."

Luo Haiting kept the documents and said. "Chief Dong, I will go back first."

"Alright. Don't forget to gather later."

After Luo Haiting left, Liu Chenlong smiled and gave Dong Xuebing a cigarette. "I heard from Xiao Zhang that you all are from Yan Tai County?"

Dong Xuebing accepted his cigarette. "Yes. We are from the Investment Promotion Agency."

I had worked in Fen Zhou City for a while before."

"Oh? You are..."

"I am working for an electric power company, but I am not currently stationed in Fen Zhou City. I had come here for a business trip and was separated from my colleagues and went to drink alone." Liu Chenlong points up. "I am also staying at this hotel. My room is upstairs."

Dong Xuebing started thinking. This man had worked in Fen Zhou City before, and his familiar face should not be a coincidence. But he has no impression of Liu Chenlong and the electric company. Could it be he looks like someone he knows? China has a big population, and it's common to see people resemble each other. He no longer thought about his looks and started chatting with him.

Report chapter Comments

Chapter 490 – That photo in the wallet!

One day...

Two days...

Three days...

Fen Zhou City's investment fair in Tokyo had ended.

Dong Xuebing called Luo Haiting and the rest to his room for a short meeting in the morning.

Luo Haiting took out her notebook and reported it to Dong Xuebing. "We have 15 Japanese businessmen asking about our projects in detail during the fair, and most of the projects are from a few sectors. Currently, we have not to sign any agreements or letters of investment intentions with them. Still, two companies had expressed they will visit our county for a site visit later this year. From their attitudes, I think we stand a good chance."

Zhang Fan and Yu Rui also reported on their duties.

They know they will not sign any contracts in this fair, but Dong Xuebing is still disappointed. The City had gotten around 600 million worth of investments, but all of them had visited the investment sites last year. This investment fair is only a few days, and no one will invest without visiting the actual site. Yan Tai County can confirm site visits with two companies are considered good results.

"Thanks for working hard, everyone." Dong Xuebing looks at his watch. "What time is the flight?"

Zhang Fan looks at the schedule. "It's at noon, and we still have three hours."

"Are the City leaders on this flight?"

"The leaders should be taking the 10.30 am flight and had left for the airport."

"Alright. Let's end the meeting now." Dong Xuebing smiles. "Go and pack your luggage, and we will discuss again after we return."

It is quite a rush for them to return immediately after the investment fair. Still, Luo Haiting, Zhang Fan, and Yu Rui are not complaining. They had gone out shopping these few days, unlike others from other Counties. Dong Xuebing did not ask all of them to station at their investment fair booth. He only asks them to take turns working at the fair while the rest can go out shopping or visit tourism attractions.

It's not easy for them to travel overseas, and they don't need to be so strict.

Sister Luo, Xiao Zhang, and Xiao Yu had a great time in Tokyo. They had visited all attractions, and other Investment Promotion Agencies' staff looks at them with envy. Zhang Fan and Yu Rui are glad to be working under Chief Dong. Look at the rest. They had worked hard at the fair and thought they could get to rest in Tokyo after the fair ended. But the return flight is on the next day. They had not done anything except work during this trip.

But Yan Tai County is different.

They get reimbursement for their meals, shopping, and transportation and get seven to eight hours of free and easy time every day.

One hour later.

The bus arrived at the hotel to fetch them to the airport.

Dong Xuebing packed his luggage and checked out. Most of Fen Zhou City's Investment Promotion Agency staff had boarded the bus.

When Dong Xuebing was about to walk over to the bus, he heard a middle-aged man's voice calling him.

"Chief Dong." Liu Chenlong nodded at Dong Xuebing and smiles. "You are returning today? Why are you leaving so early?"

Dong Xuebing nodded. "We had finished our work and had been here for quite a while."

"My flight is tomorrow. I had wanted to treat you to lunch today, but it seems we have to postpone to another day." Liu Chenlong took out his phone. "Oh, I still don't know your phone number. Let's exchange numbers, and I can treat you after we are back. I still need to thank you properly."

"Don't mention it. You had thanked me a few days ago."

Dong Xuebing had chatted with Liu Chenlong for half an hour that day and knows he is a leader in an electric company's head office. But he did not ask about his position. It's good to have more friends, and Dong Xuebing does not mind befriending him.

"I shall not delay you anymore. Let's call each other when we are back."

"Alright."

Dong Xuebing was about to turn and head for the bus when Liu Chenlong took out his wallet at the front desk to make some transactions.

Suddenly, a couple walked towards the front desk. The girl accidentally knocks Liu Chenlong's arm and dropped his wallet. The girl apologized in Japanese, and he smiles to tell her it's fine. His wallet had opened up and landed beside Dong Xuebing.

Dong Xuebing bends over and picks up the wallet. But he was shocked when he saw the photograph in the wallet!

It is a photograph of a couple.

The photo should be taken more than a decade ago, as Liu Chenlong looks much younger. His hair is still black, and he does not have so many wrinkles on his face.

"Oh, thank you." Liu Chenlong took his wallet from Dong Xuebing.

Dong Xuebing took a deep breath and asked. "This is..."

"The picture? Haha... it's my ex-wife. Do you know her?"

"... no... but she looks familiar."

"You might have met her before. She is working in a Fen Zhou City bank."

Dong Xuebing is lost in his thoughts as he walks out of the hotel. He did not even notice Luo Haiting, Zhang Fan, and Yu Rui standing in front of him.

"Chief?"

Luo Haiting and Yu Rui are puzzled.

That photograph had shocked Dong Xuebing!

Dong Xuebing suddenly realized why he finds Liu Chenlong so familiar. He has the same eyes and ears as someone close to him. If this is a coincidence, then the woman in the picture is not. That woman's face, brows, nose, lips, eyes... are almost the same as that person. He might mistake that woman for her if he did not see carefully!

Yu Meixia!

Liu Chenlong's ex-wife looks almost identical to Sister Yu!

This... Dong Xuebing is shocked. He remembers seeing Yu Meixia's parents' photographs, and they don't look like her. She had also admitted to Dong Xuebing that her parents had picked her up from the streets and didn't know her biological parents. He had promised to help her find her biological parents but does not have any clues... until now.

Dong Xuebing took a deep breath. Are they Yu Meixia's biological parents?

Report chapter Comments

Chapter 491 – Sister Yu's biological father?

Tokyo.

Hotel's entrance.

"Chief, are you getting on the bus?"

"You all go ahead. I need to make a phone call first."

Zhang Fan, Yu Rui, and Luo Haiting will not board the bus before their leader, and they waited there.

Dong Xuebing took out his phone and walked a few steps away from them. He called Yu Meixia's number. Although he has auto-roaming, the reception is not good. Some static sounds can be heard before the line got through.

"Hello, Xiao Bing?"

"Sister Yu, where are you?"

"I am preparing lunch with Qianqian at home."

Dong Xuebing cleared his throat. "Can you tell me about you and your parents in detail? How old are you when they found you?"

Yu Meixia paused for a second. "I found out from a relative a few years ago after my parents died. I think I was four or five years old, and I couldn't remember anything. If my relative accidentally mentioned it, I will not know about it as I was too young to remember anything. Why are you asking? I thought you are in Japan for a work trip? Are you back?"

"Not yet. Let's not talk about me now." Dong Xuebing continued. "Can you have any distinctive marks on your body?"

Yu Meixia blushed. "No."

Dong Xuebing had seen her body before, and she does not have any birthmarks.

"What about the clothes or jewelry you were wearing?"

"I can't remember. Xiao Bing, what's going on?"

"Didn't I say I will help you find your biological parents? That's why I need some clues. Can you try to recall or ask your relative?"

"Ok... I will ask them."

"Call me immediately if you have any news."

Dong Xuebing felt it's hard to rely on Yu Meixia's clues and only find out more from Liu Chenlong. But the flight...

Dong Xuebing looks at the bus. "You all go ahead first. I still have some unfinished business here and will take a later or tomorrow's flight back."

Luo Haiting paused. "This..."

Dong Xuebing didn't explain and carried his luggage back to the hotel. He can change his flight timing or buy a new return ticket as it does not cost much. What's important now is to find out Yu Meixia's relationship with Liu Chenlong. He had taken advantage of Sister Yu for so long and felt indebted to her. That's why he needs to do something.

...

One hour later.

Dong Xuebing sat and smoked in a private room of a restaurant in the hotel. The dishes are served.

After a while, Liu Chenlong entered with a smile. He is curious why Dong Xuebing suddenly calls him to have lunch.

"Liu... you are more than 30 years older than me, and I should address you as Uncle Liu." Dong Xuebing stood up and smiles. "Uncle Liu, have a sit. I had ordered the dishes, but I am not sure if you like it."

"No... I must pay for this meal."

"It's fine. It's the same whoever is paying."

"Xiao Dong, I thought you are supposed to be on the flight?"

Dong Xuebing does not want to reveal anything without any confirmation and made up an excuse. "Don't mention it. Something cropped up last minute, causing me to miss the flight. I will catch the next flight or tomorrow's flight back."

This hotel is often used to host tourists and have Chinese restaurants. Dong Xuebing ordered a bottle of Maotai and did not ask him about Yu Meixia straight. He wants to make Liu Chenlong tipsy before entering the main topic. But he is a good drinker, and they quickly finish half the bottle. Dong Xuebing thought to himself. No wonder Liu Chenlong's wife left him. Who can tolerate anyone who drinks like this?

"Uncle Liu, you are a good drinker."

"Haha... I don't drink alcohol in the past, but I have to entertain guests and attend functions frequently in the recent years and slowly become a good drinker." Liu Chenlong laughed. "I can tell you are also a good drinker."

"I am nothing compared to you." Dong Xuebing slowly changed the topic to Liu Chenlong's family. "Oh, do you have a son or daughter?"

Liu Chenlong's facial expression changed. "I don't have any children."

"Huh?" Dong Xuebing topped up Liu Chenlong's glass.

Liu Chenlong is getting tipsy, and he replied with a weary smile. "I am living alone now. Are you married?"

"I am also single, but I am starting to feel lonely. Have you considered setting up a family again?"

Liu Chenlong shook his head and sighed. He opens his wallet and looks at the picture. "I had divorced my ex-wife for years, but I still cannot forget her. Haha... I find her an eyesore when we were together, but I start to miss her every day after we divorced. Sigh... all men are like this." Dong Xuebing knows he still has feelings for his ex-wife, or he would not keep their picture in his wallet.

If it were someone else, Dong Xuebing would not continue to ask. He did not stop today and continued to probe deeper.

"Your wife is working in Fen Zhou City..."

"Qian Lihua, Fen Zhou City ICBC bank's Branch Manager."

Huh? Qian Lihua?!

Dong Xuebing is familiar with this name. The Investment Promotion Agency often has to interact with the bank. But they communicate with the County's branch most of the time and seldom work with the City's branch. He had only heard of Qian Lihua's name. She is the person who looks like Sister Yu? She is so near to him, but they have never met before. Even if they met, he would not think of Yu Meixia immediately. No matter how Qian Lihhua maintained her looks, she is in her fifties and will look different from the picture.

Liu Chenlong finished his glass of alcohol and said. "If our child is still around, we might not divorce. Sigh..."

Dong Xuebing brightens up. "Child? You mentioned you don't have..."

"It was a long time ago." Liu Chenlong sighed and said something shocking. "Her name is Dandan, and she is very cute. But she went missing when she was five. Her mother had brought her out and lost her when they were shopping. We reported to the police and searched for a long time. But..."

Dong Xuebing's hand shook and spilled his alcohol. "Your child went missing?!"

"Yes. She might be abducted, and I wonder how she is doing now."

"Is it a boy or girl?"

"... girl."

"Were you all staying... at Fen Zhou City?"

"We are living in the City. My ex-wife and I were working there. Sigh... it's been thirty years now." Liu Chenlong looks at the sky through the windows. "My wife and I had her earlier. If Dan Dan is still around, she should be in her thirties. She might be married or have children... sigh..." Liu Chenlong downed another glass of alcohol and did not continue.

Five years old? Went missing?

Fen Zhou City? Girl?

Damn! Dong Xuebing clenched his fist. It might be a coincidence if it is only one or two things. But all the clues are pointing... This is no longer a coincidence!

Yu Meixia might be Liu Chenlong's missing child!

Of course, it's not confirmed, but the possibility had increased significantly. Sister Yu was also found by her 'parents' when she was around four or five years old, and she is from Fen Zhou City. She also looks identical to Qian Lihua when she was young. This... it will be weird if Yu Meixia is not Liu Chenlong's missing daughter!

One will search high and low only to find it when one least expects to!

Is this fate for Sister Yu to find her biological parents?

Dong Xuebing continues to drink with Liu Chenlong to find out more. He had divorced Qian Lihua because of this incident. Their daughter had gone missing, and they could not find her after searching for a few years. The pain caused them to have frequent quarrels, and Liu Chenlong turned to alcohol to drown his sorrows. He became an alcohol addict and drinks once he got home. Their marriage fell apart, and he was transferred to the electric company's head office.

Dong Xuebing is speechless after hearing his story.

Half an hour later.

"Oh, it's so late now." Liu Chenlong looks at his watch and smiles. "Let's end our lunch now. Thank you. I will give you a treat and have a good chat again when we return." He stood up while supporting himself on the table. After drinking so much, he is a bit tipsy.

"Be careful." Dong Xuebing went over to help him. He is treating him as his elder now.

Liu Chenlong waved. "I am not drunk. Oh, you had missed your flight, right? I will get someone to arrange a flight to Beijing this afternoon."

Dong Xuebing replied. "Will it be too troublesome?"

"It's fine. We also need to book our tickets." Liu Chenlong felt better after sharing his sorrows with Dong Xuebing, and they have gotten closer.

Dong Xuebing did not reject his offer. It will be troublesome to buy or change his air ticket as he cannot speak Japanese.

Dong Xuebing did not reveal anything about Yu Meixia to Liu Chenlong after he settled his air ticket. He wants them to meet if they are related, but he doesn't know how Sister Yu will react. After all, they had not seen each other for almost thirty years. He needs to consult her opinions first and let her be prepared.

Report chapter Comments

Chapter 492 – Air Crash!

Afternoon. 3 pm.

Tokyo international airport. Dong Xuebing boarded flight J736 after getting his boarding pass.

Dong Xuebing's seat is by the windows, and he placed his luggage in the overhead compartment before fastening his seatbelt.

After a while, a middle-aged Japanese man sat beside him.

Most people on board this flight are Japanese.

Liu Chenlong had booked this flight for Dong Xuebing in Tokyo. This is a Japanese airline and flies direct to Beijing from Tokyo. It's not a returning flight from a Chinese airline, and most of the passengers are Japanese going to China for work or holidays. There are some Caucasians on board, and Dong Xuebing could not understand a word. He felt bored and closed his eyes to take a nap.

Ring... ring... ring... Dong Xuebing's phone rang.

Oh, I had forgotten to switch off my phone.

Although the plane had not departed, it is not right for him to use a mobile phone. Dong Xuebing does not want to answer, but it was Xie Huilan. He hesitated for a while and answered.

"Hello, Huilan."

"Where are you?"

"Haha... I just boarded my flight and should be back this evening."

"You are always trying to be special. Everyone from the Investment Promotion Agency had returned. Why are you still there?"

"Ah, something cropped up at noon and caused some delays. I also want to return early. Alright. I will be back at our County before 8 pm."

"Ok. Come and see me once you are back."

"Huh? What's wrong?"

"How long are you going to hide Yunxuan's pregnancy from me?! When are you going to tell me? Huh?!"

Damn! You know about it now, and what else can I say? Dong Xuebing asked timidly. "How did you find out? Who told you?" Although Dong Xuebing knows he cannot hide this from Xie Huilan, he still wants to drag it as long as possible. Although the three of them had an agreement, pregnancy is still a sensitive topic. He doesn't know how to tell Huilan as he is scared things might change.

Xie Huilan calmly replied. "Wait. Someone wants to speak to you."

A few seconds later, Qu Yunxuan answered. "Xiao Bing."

Dong Xuebing is sweating. "Aunt Xuan? Why are you with Huilan?"

"Oh, I arrived yesterday. Why didn't you tell me that you are going to Japan? You want to get a beating from me?! Haha... I am at Huilan's apartment in the quarters."

"Err... what are you two doing?"

"Watching TV, listening to music, and nothing much."

"How is our baby?"

"He is fine. Haha... I can feel his kicks now."

Suddenly, an air stewardess said something to Dong Xuebing in English. But she was speaking too fast, and he did not catch it. She should be asking him to stop using the phone. He quickly said. "The plane is flying soon. I will look for you all once I'm back."

"Ok. Come back early. I am waiting."

After hanging up, Dong Xuebing switches off his phone, and the stewardess left after rolling her eyes at him.

Aunt Xuan and Sister Xie are together now. Although Dong Xuebing could not hear anything weird from their phone call earlier, he is still worried.

Five minutes...

Ten minutes...

Twenty minutes...

The air stewardess announced in Japanese and English to ask the passengers to buckle their seatbelts as the plane is departing.

After a while, the plane shook and left the runway. The runway becomes smaller, and Dong Xuebing closed his eyes to catch a short nap. He still has lots to do when he is back.

Some time passed.

Dong Xuebing woke up and looked out of the window. He can see the ocean outside, and they should have left Japan airspace. He looked at his watch and noticed an hour had passed.

Only one hour had passed, and he wonders if he should continue with his nap.

Suddenly, there was a serious of violent turbulence!

Dong Xuebing frowned and thought nothing about it. Small planes tend to shake more in turbulence, and it's nothing serious. It will end after a while, and he is going to continue with his nap.

The turbulent stopped and started again! This time, it felt stronger!

Other than take-off and landing, the plane should be shaking up and down. But this time, it is shaking from its front and back. Dong Xuebing felt his body leaning forward suddenly. If he had not worn his seatbelt, he would have fallen out of his seat. Not only Dong Xuebing's face changed, but the other passengers also started to panic. Some Japanese passengers started asking the stewardess what's wrong. The pilot announced in English and Japanese, saying the plane was experiencing some turbulence, and asked the passengers not to worry. But Dong Xuebing saw the stewardesses rushing up and down anxiously, and he knows it might not be so simple.

Let's hope it's not some birds that crashed into the plane's engine or engine failure.

Dong Xuebing has such thoughts because of the recent air crashes.

People say flying is the safest mode of transportation. But when an accident happens, aircraft passengers are the most dangerous!

The shaking continues and is getting stronger!

The passengers were panicking and grabbed onto their armrests. No one dares to make any noise, and it's eerily quiet in the cabin!

One second...

Five seconds...

Ten seconds...

Boom! There was a loud explosion on the right-wing!

The engine had burst out in flames!

Damn! Dong Xuebing's heart almost stopped when he saw the engine on fire. Is the plane going to crash?

"Ahhh!!!!"

The passengers started crying and screaming!

The stewardesses' face changed and quickly shouted something to the passengers. It should be something about fastening their seatbelts!

Swoosh! The oxygen masks fell from the overhead compartment!

Before any flights take off, the stewardess and screens will show the pre-flight safety demonstration. Even if the passengers did not notice it, they should have seen it in the movies. Dong Xuebing's first reaction is not to grab the oxygen mask. Two words come into his mind. I'm dead! The oxygen masks have been deployed, and this symbolizes "everyone is dead in this accident."

The plane started to dive!

Dong Xuebing did not care about others and wore the oxygen mask. He also took out the lifejacket from under his seat and wore it!

Mother f*ker!

Why am I so unlucky to encounter such things?!

The cabin is in chaos. The pilots are repeating their announcements about wearing the oxygen mask and life jackets. Dong Xuebing could hear something about engine failure, and the plane will make an emergency landing. But from the flight's current situation, the pilot seems to have lost control of the plane. The plane is diving at a 45 degrees angle. How are they going to land? It's the ocean under them!

2000 meters...

1,600 meters...

1,300 meters...

The plane is losing altitude rapidly!

Dong Xuebing looks out of the window and saw a small island. Rather than calling it a small island, it should be a patch of coral reef, and there are no trees on it. The plane had tilted to one side and was about to make an emergency landing on the island or the sea near it. But the chance of the plane landing safely is almost zero. All the passengers, including Dong Xuebing, did not harbor any hopes.

This is the end!

Dong Xuebing's hands turned cold, but his expression remained calm.

Death? Dong Xuebing had experienced death too many times. He was shot by bullets more than a dozen times, but this time... he felt his end is near. Emergency landing should not succeed! Jump out of the plane? He knows he cannot survive in the open seas for too long. Furthermore, he will die from the impact if he jumps out of the plane from this height. The plane is more than 100 meters from the sea! His BACK cannot turn back time to one hour before, and he only has slightly more than ten minutes of power left. No matter what he does, he will still die in the end!

Some passengers had unbuckled their seatbelts and rushed to the emergency doors. They cannot jump off the plane now, but they can jump when the plane is about to touch the water. The survival rate should be higher.

Boom! Boom! Boom! Five to six passengers started banging on the emergency exit! They want to escape from the plane!

A stewardess quickly went over to stop them. She mumbled something in Japanese and stopped them from opening the door. In such a situation, remaining in the seats is the safest. If the passengers jump out of the plane, they might get killed by the air turbulence. The cabin is not on fire, and the doors should not be opened until the last minute. Furthermore, all the passengers will be affected if the doors are opened now. The interior and external air pressure difference is too big.

The pilot made another announcement asking the passengers to remain calm!

But how many people can remain calm in this situation?!

"The plane is making an emergency landing! We will be fine! Please remain in your seats!" A stewardess shouted in Japanese.

An elderly Japanese man shouted. "The engine is on fire! How can we be fine?!"

"Open the door! Open it before it is too late!"

"The door cannot be opened! What is going on?!"

"The exit is faulty!"

"What about the door on the other side?!"

"We cannot open it too!"

A Caucasian and five young Japanese men tried to open the safety exit door but failed. They tried banging against it and couldn't open it! The door seems to be faulty!

All the passengers panicked!

They could not even jump off the plane now! Their final chance of survival is gone. What can they do now? Are they going to sit there and wait for the plane to crash?!

Boom!

The plane shock again!

A stewardess and the standing passengers fell.

The stewardess shouted. "Please return to your seats and fasten your seatbelts! Don't panic! Return to your seats now!"

Dong Xuebing looks at what is happening around him and smiled wearily.

Is this the end?

Will I survive this air crash?!

Dong Xuebing doesn't want his life to end now! He still wants to see his child and get married to Xie Huilan and Qu Yunxuan! He also wants to see his mother remarried! He wants to see Sister Yu reunite with her biological parents! He still wants to be promoted to Bureau Director!

But Dong Xuebing will not see all these happening now.

How many more minutes does he have?

Report chapter Comments

Chapter 493 – Last words!

One thousand meters in the air.

All the passengers onboard the flight are panicking and depressed.

The emergency exit doors cannot be opened. Everyone can only pray for the plane to make the emergency landing safely.

Dong Xuebing took out his phone onboard the shaking plane. He wants to hear his family's voices before his death.

The mobile phone's signal only has two bars, and he can make calls. It is not allowed to make phone calls onboard the plane because the signal interference will affect the plane's control. But the plane is about to crash, and Dong Xuebing doesn't care. He called his mother's number.

Ring... ring... ring...

The line got through. "Hello... Bing... you... back"

Luan Xiaoping's voice is breaking up as the signal is not good.

Dong Xuebing choked with sobs when he heard his mother's voice. "Mum..."

"Why is your background so noisy?" Luan Xiaoping asked curiously. "Where... you? What... the noise..."

"Oh, I'm in a club. It's quite noisy here. Haha..."

"Why are you at those places? Don't wander around in Japan and come back early. Call... before you are back. I will help you tidy your place."

Dong Xuebing felt his heartache. He has lots to tell his Mum but doesn't know how to start.

"Xiao Bing, did you hear me?"

"Thank you, Mum."

"Why are you saying this?"

"Nothing... I just want to thank you." Dong Xuebing started to tear, and he wiped the corner of his eyes. It's been years since he cried. "... Mum, Old Yang is a good man... I wish you all the best with him."

Luan Xiaoping raised her voice. "Why are you talking about this suddenly? What happened? Xiao Bing, where are you?! Don't try to lie to me. Tell me what is going on?"

"Haha... nothing."

"You are making me nervous. What happened?"

Dong Xuebing looks at the raging sea from the window and the crying passengers around him. He forced a smile. "I am really fine. Mum... you must take care of yourself!"

"Xiao Bing! You..."

Dong Xuebing hangs up.

1,000 meters...

900 meters...

800 meters...

The out-of-controlled plane is gliding towards that patch of coral reef island!

The plane should touch the waters in around one minute!

Dong Xuebing looked at his phone and hesitated for a few seconds before calling Qu Yunxuan's number. Then, ring... the line got through.

As the plane is nearer to land, the signal is much better.

"Hello? Why are you calling me? I thought you are on board the plane?" Qu Yunxuan is puzzled. "Did you miss your flight again?"

"...Yes."

"Eh? Why is your background so noisy?"

"... Yes."

"Say something! Why are you keeping quiet?"

Dong Xuebing's throat is dry. He wants to tell Aunt Xuan how much he loves her and their child, and he might not be coming back. But he couldn't say those words out. He took a deep breath and used a serious tone. "Aunt Xuan, we are not suitable for each other. You... you should abort our baby, and let's not meet again. Find a better man and get married."

Qu Yunxuan's face changed. "What are you talking about?!"

"I am not joking with you."

"Abort our baby? Are you serious?! Try saying that to me again!"

"Just take care of yourself in the future."

"What happened? Do you know what you are saying?" Qu Yunxuan doesn't understand why Xiao Bing changed suddenly. He was fine during their phone call an hour ago.

"Give me the phone!" Xie Huilan coldly said. "What is wrong with you!?"

Dong Xuebing gritted his teeth. "Switch the phone to handsfree mode. I have something to tell you two." He paused for a second and continued. "I have straightened out my thoughts. I am from a different world from the both of you, and we can never live together. Also... I don't have any feelings for you two, and everything I said is all lies. I also find you two irritating and don't want to see you all again!"

500 meters...

400 meters...

There's no more time!

Xie Huilan frowned. "Are you drunk?"

"I am very sober, and I am saying this from the bottom of my heart. So from now onwards, we will go separate ways and stop contacting each other."

Xie Huilan paused for a second. "... what reply are you expecting from us?"

Dong Xuebing closed his eyes. "Just agree to my request."

"... alright."

The plane is shaking more violently, and Dong Xuebing had to hold on to the seat in front of him. "Sister Xie, promise me that you will find a better person to get married with."

"... ok."

"Ask Aunt Xuan to agree too!"

Qu Yunxuan shouted. "What is happening?"

Dong Xuebing shouted. "Just promise me! Hurry!"

"Fine! I will find someone to get married tomorrow!"

Dong Xuebing has no more worries on his mind.

Suddenly, Xie Huilan coldly said. "I agreed to your request, but you should also promise me one thing. No matter what happens, you must come back alive!"

"What are you saying? I am fine."

"Idiot! Do you think I cannot tell something is wrong with your flight from your noisy background?!"

Dong Xuebing did not reply.

"I know you are capable, and even bullets, landslides, etc., cannot kill you! Promise you! You must return safely! Can you hear me?! I want you to come back and stand in front of me!"

300 meters...

250 meters...

"Sorry..."

"Promise me!"

"... sorry."

"I want you to promise me!"

Dong Xuebing slowly replied. "... I promise."

Du... du... du... the line is cut.

Return? How am I going to return in this situation? The plane is very near to the deserted island, and the current angle of the plane's nose made it impossible for them to make a safe emergency landing. Unless there is a miracle, no one will survive this crash!

200 meters!

100 meters!

50 meters!

"Arghhhh!"

The plane shook, and loud shrieks and screams filled the cabins!

Dong Xuebing was thrown around in his seat and quickly tighten his seatbelt and hold on to the oxygen mask. Xie Huilan's voice is still ringing in his ears, and she rekindled his desire to survive!

F*k!

Since I will die anyway, I will fight it to the end!

Dong Xuebing opened his eyes and looked out of the window. He clenched his fist and is prepared to use all his strength to stay alive!

Report chapter Comments

Chapter 494 – Survival!

The plane is less than 100 meters from the water!

Although the pilot is trying to pull up the plane, it is not slowing down!

Dong Xuebing does not want to sit there and wait for his death. He pulled his oxygen mask off and unfastened his seatbelt before jumping up onto his seat. He stepped on the backrest of the seats in front and tried to get onto the aisle. The plane jolt, and he fell face-down on the aisle.

"Get back to your seats!"

"The plane is making an emergency landing! Don't leave your seat!"

Two stewardesses shouted at Dong Xuebing and others who are trying to open the emergency exit doors.

Dong Xuebing ignored them and started running towards the door!

A few others are doing the same as none of them felt the plane could land safely. Everyone felt jumping off the plane is the best option now. But the plane is still almost 100 meters from the waters, and it is equivalent to more than ten stories high. They might not survive from the impact even if they land in the sea. However... there is still a slim chance of survival.

Bam! Bam!

A black person is using his shoulder to bang against the emergency exit!

One time! Two times! Three times! The door is not bulging! There's no way they can escape!

"Hurry up!"

"There's no more time! Break down the door!"

"We can't open it! The door had malfunction!"

Dong Xuebing reached the exit and looked at the instructions written on the door before shouting. "Step aside!" He kicked the door with all his strength!

Bam!

The door is still locked!

A Japanese couple and a few middle-aged men are trying to open another exit door, but they also failed to open it! Dong Xuebing gave the door a few kicks and cursed. How is this still considered an emergency exit?! It can't even be opened in an emergency! Dong Xuebing does not know if it is a malfunction or the aircrew had locked it. He looked out of the windows and knew there's no more time!

Ten meters...

Five meters...

One meter...

Kaboom!

The cabin shook! Dong Xuebing and those who did not have their seatbelts on were flunked out!

The plane had landed! The pilot should be thinking of landing on the water to slow the plane before sliding onto the reef island!

Boom!

The luggage in the overhead compartment fell, and the plane felt like it's going to break into pieces!

Dong Xuebing held on to a seat to steady himself. One second... two seconds... three seconds... a loud explosion happened! Before he died, he saw a fireball engulfed everyone in the cabin!

It's pitch-black, and Dong Xuebing felt he had entered into a dream.

Dong Xuebing is very familiar with this feeling, as he knows he is dead. He did not feel any pain and died instantly.

The plane did not land successfully! It hit the reef island and exploded! The sea did not slow the plane down!

Damn! I cannot die like this!

BACK 60 Seconds!

"Argh!"

"It's going to hit the water!"

Dong Xuebing felt a hint of giddiness and found himself back in his seat. His seatbelt is still fastened, and he is wearing the oxygen mask. He had returned to the moment before the crash!

Since the doors cannot be opened, then I shall break the windows!

Dong Xuebing did not wait and used his elbow to hit the window!

Bam! A crack immediately appears from the impact! Aircraft windows' glass is less brittle compared to normal glass, but it can still be damaged!

Two hits!

Three hits!

Four hits!

The glass shattered!

Dong Xuebing immediately unfastened his seatbelt and grabbed an iPad from a piece of luggage, fallen off the overhead cabin. He used it to hit against the second layer of glass. Crack! The glass shattered from one impact. He quickly cleans the remaining glass shards sticking from the sides of the windows and sticks his head out. Shoosh! A strong suction almost tore his head off his neck!

Pain!

Dong Xuebing could not even breathe!

Dong Xuebing clenched his teeth and tried to squeeze his body out through the small window. But his life jacket is too big, and he had no choice but to remove it before trying again. Luckily, he is not fat and could climb out of the window!

When Dong Xuebing finally got half of his body out of the window, he was blown off by the strong winds!

Swoosh!

Dong Xuebing felt the world is spinning!

The burning wings, aircraft body, sky, sea, etc., are spinning around Dong Xuebing. He could not even make out his body's position and can only feel he is falling. This is a terrible feeling worse than death, and he has difficulties breathing!

OK!

Dong Xuebing felt it's time and shouted STOP!

His thinking is simple. He will use STOP to stop time and freeze himself in midair to lessen the impact of falling. After that, he will use STOP again to land safely into the waters.

...

Time stopped!

But two seconds later, Dong Xuebing felt excruciating pain throughout his body, and everything turns black again!

Dong Xuebing could tell the difference between fainting and dying. He paused for a second and knew he died again!

Why?

Is STOP not effective?! Why did he continue to fall?

Dong Xuebing thought about it and remembered his STOP could stop time for everyone and everything in the world, except for himself. When he used this power in the past, he could walk around, and gravity still affects him. He cannot apply the STOP effect on himself!

Is this not working?!

Am I going to die like this?!

BACK 70 seconds!

...

Time returned!

The plane is going to hit the water, and the passengers are screaming and crying!

Dong Xuebing is sitting in his seat, and he sighed. What should he do if everything did not work?! Is he going to sit there and wait for his death?!

Yes! Let me try this!

If this still doesn't work, then it's the end!

Dong Xuebing did not unfasten his seatbelt and took a few deep breaths to brace himself for the final escape plan. He must try it no matter what. He lifted his elbow and started banging against the window. One hit! Two hits! Three hits!

Very soon, both layer of glasses is broken!

A strong suction almost pulled Dong Xuebing out of the window!

"What are you doing?!"

"Don't break the glass! Are you mad?!"

A few passengers shouted as they could feel the strong air suction. They felt this is more dangerous!

Dong Xuebing didn't understand Japanese and ignored them. He is staring at the sea outside of the window!

Fifteen meters...

Ten meters...

Five meters...

One meter...

Crash! The plane dived onto the water! It is making the emergency landing!

Right now!

Dong Xuebing shouted STOP!

The moment Dong Xuebing shouted the command, a large explosion and fire engulfed the cabin and passengers!

Then... time stopped!

A bright flame solidified in front of Dong Xuebing. He could feel the heat, and most of the passengers are engulfed in the explosion. Some passengers' bodies are dismembered from the impact, and the flame swallows some. The aircraft debris pierced through some of the passengers' bodies, and the world is silent after STOP is used. He had seen many deaths, but the scene in front of him is too tragic, making him shiver.

Most of the passengers are dead!

They had died a tragic death!

A glass shard is hanging in the air just five to six centimeters away from Dong Xuebing's left temple. If he was one second late, he might be swallowed by the raging flames and died!

Dong Xuebing did not look at other passengers, as he doesn't even know if he can survive this air crash. The plane is no longer shaking, and he immediately unfastens his seatbelt to climb out of the window. He squeezed himself out of the window, and he had his life jacket on this time. The explosion had caused a large crack above the window, and a person's body can go through it. He lowered his head and jumped onto the burning wing! Only a small portion of the wing is left!

The aircraft had disintegrated. The front half of the plane had disappeared in the raging flames.

The sea is below the wing, and the noise of the plane had reached the reef island. The island is small and could not fit the plane. The pilot had made a mistake by trying to land on the reef island.

Dong Xuebing looked around and did not choose to go towards the reef island. If the plane exploded, the island might disappear from the impact. His only option is to jump into the sea and swim away to avoid getting caught up in the explosions!

Huff!

Dong Xuebing jumped off the plane.

Suddenly, Dong Xuebing found himself standing on the water! The raging waves had frozen, and it felt like he was standing on a concrete floor. He was stunned for a second. But he knew this is not the time to be amazed. He quickly runs on the sea, away from the plane and the reef island!

Ten meters...

Fifty meters...

Hundred meters...

Dong Xuebing doesn't have much time left, and he mumbled STOP!

Boom!

The plane exploded, and even the reef island is blown to bits by the impact! The island disappeared and sunk into the sea with the aircraft debris!

The explosion was so big that it created a ten meters wave!

Splash! Dong Xuebing, who had fallen into the water, was swallowed by the huge wave!

After that, he lost consciousness!

Report chapter Comments

Chapter 495 – Near escape!

One hour...

Two hours...

Three hours...

Dong Xuebing did not know how much time had passed, but it's dark when he woke up.

The waves hit Dong Xuebing's face, and he looks around. He was stunned for a while before he remembered what happened. His plane exploded, and a huge wave swallowed him. Luckily, he is wearing his life jacket, and he is floating in the darkness. He could not see anything other than waves and the sea.

Where am I?

Where is the aircraft debris?

Dong Xuebing looks around with the help of the moonlight. He had lost his directions, and it should be night. His plane crashed in the afternoon, and he does not know his current location after drifting on the sea for hours. He only knows he is very far from the crash site.

This is the worst scenario!

Dong Xuebing is floating in the middle of the sea, helplessly. He sighed in his heart and knows it's not so easy to escape death. Although he survived the air crash and explosion, he is still not out of danger. He is far from the crash site, and the search party will not find him. The search party might not even find the crash site as the plane had disappeared under the sea. At most, some debris can be found floating near the crash site, and the search plane might not even spot it.

Some things are destined to happen.

Dong Xuebing still cannot escape his fate.

Dong Xuebing cursed loudly, but no one can hear him in the vast sea!

No!

I had barely survived the crash! I must think of a solution!

Dong Xuebing's only hope is the search party's plane notices him. But he must find somewhere to rest, as he cannot continue to drift around in the sea. He almost cannot feel his legs because of the cold.

Swim!

It would be terrific if Dong Xuebing can find an island with trees and drinking water!

Dong Xuebing picks a direction and started swimming to find someplace he can rest. He also needs to move his body before he gets freeze to death.

One hour passed.

Two hours passed.

Dong Xuebing swam and swam. He will stop to rest when he is tired and continue after he regained his energy.

Nothing is around Dong Xuebing other than water. He could not see anything, and he can feel fishes brushing against him in the water. About fifteen minutes ago, he saw a two meters shadow swimming across his path and was shocked. He is afraid he might be eaten by a shark and quickly change direction to avoid that area.

The sea is scarier than the Amazon forest.

No one can survive without food and water. His fate will be freeze to death, starved to death, died of dehydration, drown, eaten by fishes, etc., in the end.

Middle of the night.

The sea breeze is freezing cold.

Dong Xuebing did not spot any search party and is exhausted. He has no more energy to swim.

Suddenly, the waves got stronger!

Swish... swish!

The wind howled above Dong Xuebing, and he can only see high waves in front of him. A few minutes later, waves around four to five meters swallowed him!

Pui...!

Dong Xuebing closed his eyes and pinched his nose as his body was sucked towards the bottom of the sea!

Dong Xuebing can only hold his breath for one minute and could not hold on much longer underwater. He opened his eyes and felt the sting because of the seawater. He used his remaining strength to swim upwards. The current had made him lost his direction, and his lifejacket helped him float towards the surface as he was almost out of breath!

Splash!

Dong Xuebing's head is finally out of the water, and he gasped for air!

Before he could catch his breath, another wave pressed down on him and pushed him back into the water. He could feel pain in his back and left shoulder from the impact!

Dong Xuebing continued to struggle among the waves.

About twenty minutes later, the sea and wind calmed down.

Dong Xuebing sighed in relief. He is cold, exhausted, hungry, and thirsty. This is worse than death. But he did not give up because of Xie Huilan, Qu Yunxuan, his mother, and Yu Meixia. Damn! It's only the sea! I was never scared of anyone or anything all my life!

Bam!

Dong Xuebing suddenly felt his back hitting something!

Dong Xuebing cursed and turned to see what he had hit! He immediately brightens up! Heaven has not given up on him!

Dong Xuebing does not know where the waves and current had swept him, but he had hit on a reef!

The reef is about four to five meters wide and two meters above the water!

Dong Xuebing finally found a place to rest. He grabbed onto the reef rock and climbed onto it. He laid on it, panting, and could not move. All he can hear is the waves crashing into the rock and look at the moon in the sky. He knows China should receive news of his death if the search party found the plane's debris.

Most air crashes do not have survivors. Even if the search party managed to salvage the aircraft debris, they would not know if anyone survives the crash. Most of the bodies will be in pieces or swept away by the currents. That's why Dong Xuebing knows he should be pronounced dead or missing by now. Dead or missing are the same in air crashes in the open seas.

Will Aunt Xuan abort her child if she knows I am dead?

What about Sister Xie? Will she get married to that Deputy Mayor Cheng Keliang?

What about my position? Someone should have replaced me as the Investment Promotion Agency's Chief.

Dong Xuebing slapped his forehead after letting his imaginations run wild for a moment. This is not the time to be thinking about these. What matters most is how to survive this ordeal!

Report chapter Comments

Chapter 496 – Fishing!

Morning.

The sun is up, and the reef stone is scorching hot.

The heat awakens dong Xuebing. He sat up, hoping to see the search party but was disappointed. It's freezing at night and hot during the day on the rock, and he wonders how long he can last in such an environment.

One day?

Two days?

Dong Xuebing doesn't know as he is almost at his limits now.

People can survive without food and water for two to three days, but that is in a normal environment. Dong Xuebing had experienced death several times yesterday and was drifting in the sea for hours. He is exhausted, hungry, and dehydrated.

Dong Xuebing needs to conserve his energy and laid on the reef rock motionlessly. The clothes he took off yesterday are dried, and he wore them to protect himself from the sun.

Dong Xuebing knows he will die if this carries on.

One hour...

Three hours...

Five hours...

Hold on! I must hold on!

Dong Xuebing got disappointed as he waited until noon.

It's almost 24 hours after the air crash. Based on previous air crashes, most countries would have reported this crash by now, and the search efforts should have begun. But until now, Dong Xuebing did not see any search party and knew he must have drifted far away from the crash site. If not, he would have seen the search party by now. He had worked in the Public Security Bureau and knows about sea search and rescue procedures. The search party will narrow down to the crash site and expand the search from there. If he were swept too far from the site, they would never find him.

The search party will not be coming for him.

Will I ever be rescued?

It's hard for someone to hold on if they don't have anything to look forward to. Also, Dong Xuebing is too hungry and thirsty.

Drink seawater?

No. I will die faster if I do that.

Use the evaporation method to harvest drinking water from seawater?! But there's no fire, wood, or container!

Dong Xuebing checked his pockets. Other than a bunch of keys, and two name cards, all his belongings were swept away last night.

Eat the name cards?!

That will not solve my hunger!

Dong Xuebing is dying from his hunger, and he felt he might not last until nightfall if this carries on. He knows he is close to dying from his cold sweat and lethargies. His throat is parched, and he sighed. He hopes Aunt Xuan, Sister Xie, and Sister Yu will find a good partner in the future, and Old Yang will treat his mother well...

Suddenly, there is a rumble of thunder, and dark clouds are coming towards Dong Xuebing!

Is it going to rain?

Rain is common in the seas, and this is what Dong Xuebing has been waiting for. He gathered all his strength and stood up to wear his lifejacket. The waves got stronger and came crashing onto the reef rock. He will not be spared from the waves even when standing two meters high. He lowered his center of gravity and held on to the shape edges of the rock.

About ten minutes later, the rain came!

Rumble! Thunder, flashes of lightning, and rain came pouring down!

Dong Xuebing quickly looks up and opens his mouth to drink as much rain as possible. The reef rock has lots of cracks and could not hold any water. He used both hands to try to collect as much rainwater as possible. He could only get less than a few dozen droplets into his mouth after half a minute. This is equivalent to taking a sip from a bottle of mineral water. He is still thirsty.

The dark clouds started moving further away from Dong Xuebing. Finally, the rain is going to stop!

Damn! Why can't you rain a while more?!

Dong Xuebing is frustrated as this little water is not enough for him. Suddenly, he has an idea. He shouted ... STOP!

The seagulls stopped squealing!

The waves froze, and the wind stopped!

Dong Xuebing still has four to five minutes left and cannot afford to waste time. So he looked at the countless droplets in the air and started eating them with his mouth. Five droplets... ten droplets... twenty droplets... fifty droplets... after he finished 'eating' all the rain droplets above and around the reef rock, he resumed time. Time resumed, and all the droplets in his mouth merged, and he drank it in one gulp!

It feels good!

Pitter-patter... the raindrops continue to fall, and it's about to stop anytime soon.

Dong Xuebing shouted STOP again.

Time stopped again, and Dong Xuebing continued to use his hands and mouth to stuff raindrops into his mouth. It's heavy rain, and he can collect five to six droplets easily in one palm. After collecting enough raindrops, he resumed time and drank it.

One time...

Three times...

Five times...

After a while, Dong Xuebing laid down on the reef rock with his stomach filled with water. It feels so good.

Dong Xuebing had temporarily quenched his thirst, but food...

Dong Xuebing got another idea. He looks at the sea around the rock. It is beautiful from where he is standing. Although the waves are not high in this rain, the sea will not calm down. But he does not have the mood to admire the sea. He stared at the water for a few minutes and suddenly brightened up!

Fishes!

Of course, there are fishes in the sea.

But it is impossible to catch fish here. Even an experienced fisherman will not catch any fishes without fishing rods, nets, bait, etc. Catching fishes barehandedly in the rivers might be possible, but not in the open seas. So how is Dong Xuebing going to catch fish now?

Dong Xuebing has an idea.

He took off his lifejacket and jumped into the sea!

Splash! Dong Xuebing opened his eyes and held his breath underwater while swimming around the reef rock. Then, he looks around and resurfaces for air after 30 seconds before diving down again. Although he had drunk some water earlier, he is still exhausted.

Ten minutes passed.

Suddenly, Dong Xuebing saw a fish with some stripes. It is not bright underwater, and he cannot tell its color. But it should be greyish and about the size of a grown carp. This fish is swimming two to three meters with his back towards him.

That's the fish!

Dong Xuebing can never be faster than a fish underwater. The moment he reached towards the fish, it changed direction and swam away.

Escape?!

STOP!

The sea froze as time stopped!

During the time stop, all physical objects will be "frozen" in place. For example, a mobile phone dropping onto the ground will be floating in midair, and Dong Xuebing will need to use some strength to move it. It is the same for the sea. Dong Xuebing can walk on the sea, but he needs to use more strength to move in the "frozen" sea.

Ten centimeters...

Twenty centimeters...

Half a meter...

When Dong Xuebing could not hold his breath any longer, his hand finally reached the stationary fish, and he grabbed it tightly!

STOP!

...

...

Time resumed!

The fish is struggling and trying to escape from Dong Xuebing's hand. But he will never let go. He tightened his grip until his fingernails pierced through the fish's scales and swam towards the surface. He climbed onto the reef rock and panted.

He had finally caught a fish!

Dong Xuebing threw the fish hard onto the rocky surface and started to gut it. He removed the internal organs and some bones before washing them with seawater. He felt slightly disgusted to eat raw fish but still stuff the meat into his mouth.

Yucks... it's salty and fishy.

Dong Xuebing cannot be picky now. Raw fish is better than eating name cards. Furthermore, Sashimi is very popular in Japan.

Just eat it!

Dong Xuebing is starving and couldn't care about the taste. He devoured the fish in a few bites and burped. He had just eaten almost 1 kg of raw fish and is finally full. Suddenly, he had a bad stomachache. Maybe there are parasites in that unknown fish. But having stomachaches is better than starving to death. If it is another person stranded on the reef rock, he might not even touch a fish. Let alone eat it.

Dong Xuebing looks at the sun setting as he lays on the rock.

Is he going to live on this rock for the rest of his life if the search party did not come for him?

Also, Dong Xuebing's food and water issues are only solved temporarily. What if it does not rain for more than three days, or he cannot catch any fishes? He will still die.

What should he do?

How is he going to get back?

This is the first time Dong Xuebing felt so helpless. There's no way he can win against nature.

Report chapter Comments