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

23. 689 - 720

Power and Wealth #Chapter 689: Sister Yu's mother died - Read Power and Wealth Chapter 689: Sister Yu's mother died Online - All Page - Novel Next

Chapter 689: Sister Yu's mother died

Evening, 7.30 pm.

Qian Lihua's life will end in less than forty minutes.

Dong Xuebing grabbed his phone and called Liu Chenlong. He must save Sister Yu's mother at all cost.

"Sorry. The number you just called is not available…." Liu Chenlong's phone should be out of battery.

What should he do now? Call the police? How is he going to contact them? Call Qian Lihua and ask her to leave because a car will crash into the café? Who will believe him?

Wait…. Don't panic.

There's still enough time.

Dong Xuebing looked at the time and grabbed his keys. He runs down the stairs and calls Yu Meixia on his way.

"Hello, Uncle." Yu Qianqian answered.

Dong Xuebing asked anxiously. "Where's your mother?"

"She is in the toilet."

"Hurry, give her the phone."

"Ok. I will get her now." Ta… ta… ta…. Yu Qianqian runs to the toilet. "Mum… mum…. Uncle is looking for you urgently."

Yu Meixia answered a while later. "Xiao Bing."

Dong Xuebing doesn't have time to explain. "Bring Qianqian to the City now!"

"What happens?"

"Your mother might meet an accident! Come over now!"

"Ah?! She… she…."

"Stop asking. I don't have time to explain. There might not be any bus services to the City now. I will give you Yan Tai County Public Security Detective Team Leader Feng Lei's number. Call him and ask him to get someone to send you to the City now. Tell him it's my request."

"Ok…. I will call now."

Yu Meixia is scared out of her wits when she hears something has happened to her mother.

Dong Xuebing had reached his car when he hung up. He sped out of the quarters towards Nan Shan District Luo Gu Street. Nan Shan District Luo Gu Street is located between Nan Shan District and Xi Ping District. More than a decade ago, Luo Gu Street was under Xi Ping District, far from its current location. He knows there's not much time and started calling people for Qian Lihua's mobile number while speeding to the scene.

Thirty minutes to 8.10 pm.

The reported time on the papers might not be accurate, and the accident might happen in less than 30 minutes. Dong Xuebing has less than 30 minutes to reach there.

After a while, Dong Xuebing got received a phone number. He doesn't know if this number belongs to Qian Lihua or not, but he still called it.

Ring… ring… ring…. No one answered.

Dong Xuebing tried again, but no one answered.

Dong Xuebing threw his phone in the passenger seat and held the steering wheel with both hands. The traffic in front was heavy, and he drove up the pedestrian walkway to avoid it. All the drivers and pedestrians were shocked, and they quickly rushed to get out of the way.

Faster!

Faster!

Dong Xuebing speed through the streets.

At the same time.

Nan Shan Luo Gu Street.

Qian Lihua and Liu Chenlong are sitting opposite each other at a Japanese theme café. They are sitting by the window.

Liu Chenlong is wearing a formal suit and is looking great. His hair is combed back neatly, and he looks much younger than his age. Qian Lihua is in working attire and looks calm. She had put on light makeup, and her wrinkles could be seen.

"Your phone has been ringing several times." Liu Chenlong looks at her. "Why are you not answering?"

Qian Lihua stirred her coffee slowly. "I don't recognize the number."

Liu Chenlong shook his head. "What if it's an emergency?"

Qian Lihhua interrupted Liu Chenlong coldly. "I will answer when I feel like it. It's none of your business."

Liu Chenlong replied helplessly. "Lihua, it was my fault. I shouldn't indulge in alcohol after Dandan went missing and vent my anger on you. I had realized my mistake many years ago, and I have been thinking about you and Dandan all these years."

Qian Lihua got mad. "Don't mention my daughter!" She shouted.

Liu Chenlong sighed. "After our divorce, I continue to look for Dandan. I believe she is still alive and is living well somewhere. Maybe she had gotten married and have children by now."

"Did you ask me out to talk about these?"

"I want to say…." Liu Chenlong paused for a second and looked at his ex-wife's eyes. "We are old and going to retire now. Have you thought about the future?"

Qian Lihua glances at Liu Chenlong. "What do you mean?"

Liu Chenlong continues. "I am asking if you want to resume our marriage. At least we can care for each other in the future."

Qian Lihua firmly replies. "Impossible!"

"I know I had treated you badly after Dandan went missing. I have reflected on myself and hope I can repay you during my remaining time."

"Don't even think about resuming our marriage."

"Lihua, I promise I will quit drinking. I will treat you well."

"I don't need your promises unless you can bring Dandan back to me."

"I will continue to look for her, but…."

"Then wait until you find her first."

"You remain single for so many years, and I know you still have feelings for…."

"Do you have anything else to say?" Qian Lihua picked up her handbag and stood up. "I am leaving."

"Wait…." Liu Chenlong quickly stops her. "Can you finish your coffee first? I will not talk about resuming our marriage."

Qian Lihua suppressed her anger and sat down.

Liu Chenlong sighed in his heart. He knows his ex-wife still has not forgiven him. Their daughter had gone missing when she was five, and they argued and finally divorced because of this incident. It's just like what Qian Lihua said. If they can't find their daughter, their problem will not be settled.

But their daughter had been missing for almost thirty years.

It's almost impossible to find her now.

Liu Chenlong felt pain in his heart when he thinks about Dandan.

Qian Lihua is also quiet, as she is also thinking about their daughter. She remembers their daughter running behind them and calling out to them.

Is she doing well?

Where is she now?

Qian Lihua and Liu Chenlong are thinking about their daughter. They did not notice a silver Jetta had turned right and drove up the walkway towards the café at the T-junction.

"I will continue to look for Dandan." Liu Chenlong puts down his coffee and says. "I will continue to look for her as long as I am alive."

Qian Lihua continued to eat her food and did not say anything.

Suddenly, someone in the café screamed. "Ah!"

"A car… a car is speeding towards us!"

"Watch out!"

"Hurry! Get away!"

Qian Lihua and Liu Chenlong looked at those people and saw they were looking at them. They turned and looked out of the window.

A Jetta is speeding towards them!

The car is heading towards where Qian Lihua is seated.

"Lihua!" Liu Chenlong stood up. "Be careful!" He wants to grab her, but he can't reach her as there's a table between them.

Qian Lihua is stunned. She wants to move out of danger, but it's too late.

The silver Jetta is approaching her fast.

"Lihua!"

"Watch out!"

"It's going to crash into her!"

Everyone is screaming in the café. Some even closed their eyes.

That Jetta is too fast, and the café's glass windows can't stop it. No one can save Qian Lihua if the car crash into the café.

A man's figure dashed towards the café from outside at the last moment.

Qian Lihua stood up and tried to jump out of the car's way, but she was blocked between the chair and table. When Liu Chenlong tries to grab his ex-wife, a young man appears outside the window. He smashed the window with a heavy object and dived into the café. The Jetta is inches behind him.

Crash!

The young man's body landed on the table between Liu Chenlong and Qian Lihua, and he jumped again with one arm around Qian Lihua's waist, pushing her to the ground.

The next second.

The Jetta crashed into the café, and the chair Qian Lihua was sitting on was smashed into pieces.

Crash!

A loud crash echoed in the café.

"Ah!!!"

"Lihua!"

Liu Chenlong rushed towards Qian Lihua like a madman. He held her and asked. "Are you alright?! Answer me!"

Qian Lihua's body was cut by the glass pieces and is bleeding.

"Ambulance! Call for an ambulance!" Liu Chenlong shouted.

A café staff quickly took out his phone to call for an ambulance.

The young man who crashed into the café is Dong Xuebing. He had a bad fall and lay two meters away from Qian Lihua. He is lying there panting.

Just in time!

I finally got here in time!

Dong Xuebing struggled to sit up and saw Liu Chenlong back facing him. He is very worried about his wife, and Dong Xuebing is speechless. Shouldn't you show some concern for me after I risked my life to save your wife?

All the bystanders are looking at Dong Xuebing as if they had seen a ghost.

Who would expect someone to be so daring to save others from a speeding car?!

Translator's notes:

Volkswagen Jetta

https/en./wiki/Volkswagen_Jetta

Chapter 690: Sister Yu arrived

Night.

A café along Lou Gu Street.

A crowd formed outside the café, and everyone was talking about that Jetta and Dong Xuebing.

"Did you see that?"

"I saw it! That young man is crazy!"

"That's right, but he managed to save that woman."

"Who is he? Is he trying to die? If he is slower than 1 second, he will be killed."

"He is courageous, and not many people are like him now." Dong Xuebing brushed the dust and glass shards off his clothes and stood up. He looks at Qian Lihua and Liu Chenlong, who are still shocked. It was close. He rushed here and saw nothing had happened. He thought it was not time, but when he got out of his car, he saw that silver Jetta coming out of nowhere and speeding towards the café. He didn't even have time to think and rush forward. Luckily, he made it in time and saved his 'mother-in-law's' life.

Dong Xuebing gets mad when he thinks about what would happen if he was late by a second. His eyes turned cold, and he walked over to the car.

A drunk middle-aged man was still in the driver's seat. The air bags did not deploy because of the crash, and he was smiling inside, looking at the commotion he caused.

Dong Xuebing's blood was boiling from his anger. He tried to open the door, but the door was crashed from the impact and could not be opened. He reached through the smashed windows and dragged the driver out from the car onto the floor.

The driver shouted angrily. "What are you doing?! Don't touch me!"

Dong Xuebing frowned when he smelled the alcohol from that man.

"What am I doing?! What do you think I am doing?!" Dong Xuebing lifted his leg and kicked that man's chest. "F*k you!"

That man shouted in pain and fell on his back.

A kick was not enough for Dong Xuebing to vent his anger. He bent over and punched that man. "You still dare to smile after what you did?! Ah!? Try smiling now!"

Two punches….

Three punches….

Four punches….

The driver was beaten to a pulp.

"Smile! I want you to smile now!" Dong Xuebing gave that man another kick.

The driver was curled up on the ground, groaning in pain.

Dong Xuebing had vented his anger, and he pointed at the driver. "I will kill you if I see you drink driving again!" The onlookers nodded in agreement.

"Good job!"

"Give this bastard a few more kicks!"

"Drink driving is getting more serious now. These people have no concern about other people's lives."

A young man, who was drinking coffee in the café, was almost cut by the glass shards earlier. He saw Dong Xuebing stop hitting that driver, and he rushed over to beat him.

Liu Chenlong saw his ex-wife was not injured other than a few minor cuts, and he remembers the person who saved her. He quickly helped Qian Lihua up and looked toward the crowd. He wanted to thank that young man but was shocked when he saw his face. "Eh? Xiao Dong?!"

Dong Xuebing laughed. "Uncle Liu, you finally notice me."

Liu Chenlong was surprised. "Why is it you? Why are you here?"

Dong Xuebing replied. "I was passing by and saw that man driving recklessly. So, I come over."

"Thank you… thank you so much…." Liu Chenlong grabbed Dong Xuebing's hand and thanked him.

Qian Lihua had recovered from her shock. "You two know each other?"

"This is not a good place to talk. Aunt Qian is injured, and we should go to the hospital first." Dong Xuebing supported Qian Lihua by holding her arm. "Don't wait for the ambulance. I will drive you all there."

An hour later.

Hospital's Accident and Emergency Lobby.

Qian Lihua's cuts were bandaged. She is fine other than a few superficial cuts.

Liu Chenlong and Dong Xuebing helped her to a bed to rest.

Liu Chenlong introduced Dong Xuebing to his ex-wife. "This is Dong Xuebing, Nan Shan District's Guang Ming Subdistrict Office Director. We met during my business trip in Tokyo a while ago."

Qian Lihua thanked Dong Xuebing. "Xiao Dong, I would not have avoided that car without you. Thank you."

Dong Xuebing laughed. "Don't mention it." Qian Lihua asked worryingly. "Are you injured? You should go for a checkup."

"I am fine as my skin is thick. Hahaha…."

Liu Chenlong squeezed Dong Xuebing's shoulder and did not say anything. He did not expect Dong Xuebing to appear and risked his life to save Qian Lihua. Their relationship is not so close for him to risk his life for him. They only had a few meals and drinks since they met in Tokyo. This incident let him know more about Dong Xuebing's character. This is someone trustworthy and dependable.

Suddenly, Dong Xuebing's phone rang. He looked at the number, and it was Yu Meixia.

"Sorry, I got to answer this call." Dong Xuebing said and walked out to the corridor to answer the call. "Hello, Sister Yu, where are you now?"

Yu Meixia anxiously replied. "I had reached the City. My…. Where is my mother? What happened to her?" Dong Xuebing replied. "Don't worry. Aunt Qian is fine now. She only suffered some minor injuries."

"Where…. Where are you all now? I will go over."

"How did you and Qianqian come here?"

"Team Leader Feng got someone to drive us here."

"Alright. I will give you a hospital address. We are at the Accident and Emergency department lobby. Just come over with Qianqian."

"We will be there soon. Xuebing…. Is my mother… really fine?"

"Why should I lie to you? Haha…. How can anything happen to your mother with me around?"

Dong Xuebing returned to Qian Lihua and Liu Chenlong.

"My injuries are bandaged, and the Police had recorded our statements. Let's go back now." Qian Lihua got up from the bed with Liu Chenlong's help and was about to stand up.

Dong Xuebing saw it and quickly said. "Wait…. Aunt Qian and Uncle Liu. Can you all wait for two more people?"

Liu Chenlong and Qian Lihua stopped and asked. "Who are we waiting for?" Dong Xuebing smiled. "It's two very important people which you two will want to meet. Hahaha…. I will keep you two in suspense now. You will know when they reach. They are my friends, and I called them after the accident. They should be here within ten minutes at most." Liu Chenlong asked. "Are you referring to that friend you told me over the phone?"

"That's right."

Dong Xuebing had just saved Qian Lihua's life, and she nodded without hesitation. "Alright. Let's wait for a while."

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Chapter 691: Reunite

Night.

Hospital's Accident and Emergency Department.

There are many patients and around twenty to thirty beds in the hall. The beds are close to each other, and it's quite noisy and messy. Liu Chenlong does not like the noise, and he pulls the screen curtains around the bed. Dong Xuebing saw it and pulled the curtains on the other side.

Although the curtains cannot stop the noise in the hall, they will block out the messy hall from their sight.

Liu Chenlong looks at his watch. "How about I ask the hospital to prepare a private ward for you?"

Qian Lihua shook her head. "Don't trouble yourself. We are leaving in a while."

"It's not troublesome. I met the hospital's Deputy Director Fang a few times and knew him well." Liu Chenlong replied.

Qian Lihua looked at Liu Chenlong and shook her head. "No need. I am going home after meeting Xiao Dong's friends. My injuries are not serious." Liu Chenlong nodded and held her hand.

Qian Lihua frowned and pulled her hand away.

Liu Chenlong felt embarrassed and looked towards Dong Xuebing.

Dong Xuebing observed them and pretended not to see anything when Liu Chenlong turned his head.

"Xiao Dong." Liu Chenlong said.

"Huh?" Dong Xuebing asked. "What is it?"

"Why are you so sure that we want to meet your friends? Who are they?"

Dong Xuebing laughed. "I am very sure."

Qian Lihua asked. "Is it some old friends we know?"

Dong Xuebing thought for a second and replied. "I am not sure if you two can recognize them."

Liu Chenlong and Qian Lihua were about to continue asking Dong Xuebing when they heard loud footsteps outside. Dong Xuebing looked out from the curtains and said to them. "They are here. I will bring them over. Please wait here for a while." He said and walked out. He waved to Yu Meixia and Yu Qianqian. "Sister Yu, Qianqian, over here!"

"Mum, it's Uncle!" Yu Qianqian pointed towards Dong Xuebing and exclaimed.

Yu Meixia quickly pulled her daughter and walked towards Dong Xuebing. "Xiao Bing, I…. I…. They…." Dong Xuebing turns towards the bed, covered by the curtain screen. "They are over there. Let's go." Yu Meixia took a step and paused.

"What are you hesitating for? You are already here." Yu Meixia thought for a while and continued walking with Yu Qianqian.

Dong Xuebing looks at Yu Meixia and Yu Qianqian before taking a deep breath and opening the curtains slowly. He pushed them in and closed the curtains.

Liu Chenlong and Qian Lihua were talking softly when they heard the sound of curtains opening. They look up at the new visitors.

Yu Meixia is biting her lower lips nervously, and Yu Qianqian hides behind her.

Their eyes met.

Yu Meixia was mentally prepared for this meeting. Her eyes teared, and she trembled when she saw Liu Chenlong and Qian Lihua.

Yu Qianqian is also looking at them nervously.

Liu Chenlong was stunned when he saw Yu Meixia.

Qian Lihua's reaction was slower. She looked at Yu Meixia for a few seconds before her face changed to shock.

"This…. You…. you…." Liu Chenlong stood up and could almost guess it. He looked at Dong Xuebing in shock and held his shoulder. "Xiao Dong! What is going on? She…. Why is her face….? Hurry up and tell me what is going on!" The woman in front of him was the spitting image of his ex-wife when she was younger. Qian Lihua might be slower to realize this, but not Liu Chenlong. He had kept a picture of Qian Lihua during her younger days in his wallet.

Qian Lihua sat up on the bed immediately. "You…. You are…."

Yu Meixia kept quiet and hugged Qianqian.

Dong Xuebing saw Sister Yu keeping quiet and smiling. He gently pushes Liu Chenlong's hand off his shoulder and says. "Uncle Liu, sit down first. I will explain everything."

Liu Chenlong took a deep breath and did not sit down.

Qian Lihua reached out and held Liu Chenlong's hand. She held his hand so tight until her nails dug into his flesh.

Liu Chenlong also held her hand tightly, and his eyes have never left Yu Meixia.

Dong Xuebing pulled a chair over for Yu Meixia, and he sat at the end of the bed. He looks at Liu Chenlong and Qian Lihua. "Let me introduce you all first." He points at Yu Meixia. "This is Yu Meixia, and this is her daughter, Yu Qianqian. Hmm…. It's a long story. I met Sister Yu a long time ago when working at Yan Tai County Public Security. I met her by chance and hired her to be my helper. As we got to know each other better, she told me her parents in the countryside are not her birth parents. She might be bought or picked up from the roadside by them. She was too young to remember anything, and she hopes I can help her to find her birth parents."

Qian Lihua's eyes turned red when she heard this.

Liu Chenlong's breathing got faster.

Dong Xuebing continued. "Maybe the gods are helping me. Uncle Liu, do you still remember our meeting in Japan? I was supposed to board my flight that day, but I did not. I even had a meal with you and asked you to help me amend my flight ticket."

Liu Chenlong replied. "Of course."

"That is because I saw Aunt Qian's photograph in your wallet when you dropped it at the counter." Qian Lihua looks at Liu Chenlong.

Liu Chenlong took out his wallet with his trembling hands and took out that old photograph.

"Yes. This is that photograph." Dong Xuebing laughed. "I think it's fated. When I saw the photograph, my first reaction was, 'that is Sister Yu.' The woman in the photograph looks exactly like her. Of course, many people look alike with each other in this world. So, I started asking about your family during our meal. You told me that you and Aunt Qian had a daughter named Dandan, and she went missing when she was five. I can almost confirm it, but I need to get Sister Yu's opinion first. We are not 100% sure, so…."

Liu Chenlong suddenly remembers something. "We had a meal together when I visited Yan Tai County, and you mentioned a friend of yours might be joining us."

Dong Xuebing nodded. "Yes. After our meal…. Err…. I…. I secretly took your glass and got someone to get your DNA specimen from it. I used your DNA and Sister Yu's DNA for a Paternity test, and the result…."

"What's the result?!" Liu Chenlong interrupted anxiously.

Qian Lihua also asked. "Hurry and tell us the result." Dong Xuebing turns to Sister Yu. "Did you bring it?"

Yu Meixia nodded and took out a piece of paper from her pocket with trembling hands.

Dong Xuebing took it and gave it to Liu Chenlong. "This is the test result. You are Sister Yu's father."

Qian Lihua's tears rolled down her cheeks. "Thank god…." Liu Chenlong looked at the result slip for a few seconds and couldn't hold back his tears. "Great!"

Yu Meixia also cried. Yu Qianqian saw her mother crying and started sobbing too.

A few moments later, Qian Lihua jumps off the bed and hugs Yu Meixia. "My daughter is finally back!"

Liu Chenlong walked over and hugged Qian Lihua and Yu Meixia in his arms. "Dandan! You must have suffered all these years. We are sorry!"

Qian Lihua cried. "Sorry…. I had made you suffer."

Yu Meixia shook her head. "It's my fault."

"Silly child."

Qian Lihua cried. "Why is it your fault? It's all our fault for not taking care of you. If we had been more careful, you would not be abducted."

Liu Chenlong wiped the tears off Yu Meixia's face. "You are finally back with us."

Yu Meixia nodded while crying. She looks at them for a while and finally says. "Mum, Dad." Liu Chenlong had been waiting for this for almost thirty years. Qian Lihua also cried. "My precious daughter…."

Yu Qianqian, who was standing beside him, was standing there in a daze. She wants to hug Yu Meixia, but Qian Lihua and Liu Chenlong hug her tightly. There's no space for Qianqian to join in. She can only stand there looking at them while wiping her tears.

Dong Xuebing quickly cleared his throat to get their attention. "Ahem!"

Liu Chenlong and Qian Lihua had finally found their long-lost daughter and didn't hear anything.

Dong Xuebing is speechless. He held Qianqian's hand and walked over. "Err…. Sorry to disturb you. Qianqian, this is your grandmother, and this is your grandfather."

Yu Qianqian shyly greeted them. "Grandma, Grandpa."

Liu Chenlong and Qian Lihua realized they had almost forgotten about their granddaughter.

"Good girl." Liu Chenlong quickly acknowledged.

Qian Lihua released her arms around Yu Meixia and hugged Yu Qianqian. She kissed her. "My precious darling…." Her family is finally reunited after almost thirty years.

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Chapter 692: Reunion

Night.

9 pm.

Dong Xuebing and the rest left for Qian Lihua's house from the hospital. Her neighborhood is quiet as most people had returned home.

Liu Chenlong asked Yu Meixia about her life after they entered the house.

Qian Lihua hugs Yu Qianqian on the sofa, and she keeps kissing her. She likes her granddaughter a lot.

Yu Qianqian felt uneasy and is blushing. But Qian Lihua is hugging her tightly.

The family had been reunited, and Dong Xuebing became an outsider. He looks at them, chatting warmly, and they have forgotten about him. He smiled and went to the kitchen. He got a cup and fetched a cup of water before standing by the kitchen windows to smoke. He is happy for them and wants to let them chat.

"Dandan, are you thirsty?"

"No. I am not."

"This will be your home in the future. Oh, are you used to us calling you Dandan?"

"A little, but it's fine."

"You are grown up now. Your mother and I will call you Meixia from now on."

"Ok."

"I had forgotten to ask you about your husband."

"He passed away."

"What happened? Did he fall sick or what?"

Yu Meixia told them about her life, including her husband, Qianiqan, and how Dong Xuebing helped them. Qian Lihua and Liu Chenlong were heartbroken after hearing her story. Their daughter had endured all sorts of hardships since they were separated. They sighed and told her how hard they searched for her and why they divorced.

Half an hour later.

The family is still chatting.

"Oh, where's Xiao Dong?" Liu Chenlong suddenly remembers Dong Xuebing. He looks around. "Xiao Dong…. Xiao Dong…."

Qian Lihua slaps her lap lightly. "Ah, I was so happy that I had forgotten to get a drink for Xiao Dong. Xiao Dong!"

"I'm here." Dong Xuebing heard them and threw his cigarette butt out of the window before walking out. He thought to himself. You all finally remember about me.

Qian Lihua stood up and apologized. "Sorry, Xiao Dong. I had forgotten about you."

Dong Xuebing laughed. "It's alright. I was smoking in the kitchen."

Liu Chenlong went over and patted Dong Xuebing's shoulders. He pulled him to a chair. "Sit. I will make tea for you."

"Uncle Liu, I can make it myself."

"We get to meet Meixia again because of you." Liu Chenlong squeezed Dong Xuebing's arm. "If you had not helped Meixia and Qianqian when they are begging on the streets, we might not know what will happen to them. Meixia had told us you gave her a job and helped Qianqian return to school. You had been taking care of them the past two years."

Qian Lihua added. "If you had not saved me today, I would have been killed by that car and will not get to see my daughter and granddaughter again. Xiao Dong, thank you very much."

"That's right." Liu Chenlong patted Dong Xuebing's shoulder. "No words can describe how grateful we are."

Dong Xuebing smiles. "I had not done much. It all happened coincidently. Maybe it's fated for me to meet them and help your family reunite. My mission is completed. Hahaha…."

Qian Lihua suddenly says. "Oh, my daughter had borrowed money from you." She took out her wallet and took out a bank card. "There's 200,000 inside. The pin is……."

Liu Chenlong stopped his ex-wife immediately. "I will return the money. Stay out of this."

Qian Lihua pushed her ex-husband's hand away. "Let me pay for it. You are earning so little."

Liu Chenlong and Qian Lihua's positions are about the same. A few decades ago, they would be holding the same rank and getting the same salary under the government. Their ranks might be the same now, but their salaries are different. The head of the City's ICBC is earning a lot more than the City's Power Company's General Manager.

Liu Chenlong is unhappy, and he frowns. "This is not about how much we earn. She is my daughter."

"She is also my daughter." Qian Lihua rolled her eyes. "Can you stop fighting with me in front of our daughter?"

"I don't want to argue with you. I will return this sum of money."

"Liu Chenlong, are you done?!"

"What do you mean?!"

All couples will fight, let alone a divorced couple. Both of them started quarreling over a small disagreement.

Dong Xuebing smiled helplessly as he could not stop them.

Yu Meixia panicked and wanted to stop her parent's argument. But she doesn't know what to say. After all, they had only met for around one hour.

It was Yu Qianqian who managed to stop them. She saw her grandparents arguing, and her tears started flowing. "You all…. Stop fighting…."

Liu Chenlong saw her precious granddaughter crying and quickly consoled her. "Don't cry, Qianqian. I will stop arguing with your grandmother now."

Qian Lihua went over and hugged Qianqian. She kissed her forehead. "Don't cry, my precious baby. We are only joking and not fighting."

Liu Chenlong laughed. "That's right. We are only joking."

Yu Qianqian sniffled and nodded.

Qian Lihua pinched Yu Qianqian's nose lightly. "You are the same as your mother when she is young. She will start crying whenever your grandfather argues with me. Haha…."

Liu Chenlong recalled those times and smiled.

Yu Meixia blushed and felt embarrassed.

"Ok, you will return the money." Liu Chenlong looks at his ex-wife.

Qian Lihua glanced at Liu Chenlong and nodded. She pushed the bank card to Dong Xuebing. "Xiao Dong, keep this card. If you find it troublesome, tell me your account number, and I will transfer the money tomorrow."

Dong Xuebing did not accept it. "Aunt Qian, let's not talk about this."

"Just take it." Qian Lihua pushed the card into Dong Xuebing's hand.

"I helped Sister Yu is because I treated her as a friend. I was there when she had difficulties, and I had to help her. I had never wanted her to return the money. Furthermore, you should know I don't need this sum of money. Please keep it."

Qian Lihua knew Dong Xuebing was wealthy as he had driven her back in his Cayenne. "This is not about how wealthy you are. We must return this sum of money to you."

"You don't need to return it."

Qian Lihua refused. "You got to take it."

"That's right. Xiao Dong, you must accept it." Liu Chenlong added.

Dong Xuebing simply refused to accept it, but Qian Lihua and Liu Chenlong insisted.

In the end, Yu Meixia said something to stop them. "Mum, Dad, I will work and repay Xiao Bing slowly in the future. I cannot use your money."

Dong Xuebing laughed. "See…. Sister Yu says she will return the money slowly in the future."

Qian Lihua and Liu Chenlong finally stopped insisting.

Suddenly, Yu Qianqian yawned and rubbed her eyes. "Mum, I'm sleepy."

Qian Lihua immediately says. "You all had rushed over from Yan Tai County and must be tired. Let's go to bed, and we will continue chatting tomorrow."

Yu Meixia asked. "Then we…."

"Just stay at my place." Qian Lihua smiles and holds Yu Meixia and Yu Qianqian's hands towards the bedroom. "Let's tidy up the room. I want to hug you to sleep tonight. Hmmm…. I had forgotten you are no longer five years old. The bed is not big enough. Hahaha…. Alright. You and Qianqian will sleep in the guest room. I will not join you all."

Yu Meixia paused for a second and looked at Dong Xuebing. "Xiao Bing, we are going to stay here tonight." She relies on Dong Xuebing a lot and will seek his opinions for everything.

Dong Xuebing is speechless. Damn! Why are you asking me this now? Your parents are beside you, and they might get the wrong idea. He immediately explains to Liu Chenlong and Qian Lihua. "I had booked a hotel for Sister Yu tonight as I was afraid they don't have a place to stay. I will cancel the booking." This tells them the reason why Yu Meixia is asking his opinion.

Liu Chenlong nodded. "How can she stay at the hotel when they are home?"

Qian Lihua agreed. "Meixia, I will accompany you back to Yan Tai County tomorrow to get your belongings. Both of you will live with me in the future."

Yu Meixia nodded.

Liu Chenlong suddenly remembers something. "Lihua…. What about me?"

Qian Lihua glanced at him and did not reply.

The apartment only has two rooms. Yu Meixia and Yu Qianqian will be staying in one room, and Qian Lihua will be staying in the other room. There's no more room for Liu Chenlong. Her sofa in the living is also not suitable for sleeping. Liu Chenlong sighed when he saw his ex-wife not replying. "Alright…. Go to bed. I will come back tomorrow morning." He doesn't want to leave as he finally finds his long-lost daughter. But he got no choice as they had been divorced for many years.

Dong Xuebing blinked. "I will be going off too. Uncle Liu, I will walk you down."

Liu Chenlong nodded and looked at Yu Meixia and Yu Qianqian before reluctantly walking towards the door. "Let's go."

Qian Lihua, who was giving Qianqian a new toothbrush in the bathroom, looks out and says. "I will not stop you if you want to go back."

"Huh?" Liu Chenlong stopped. "Are you allowing me to stay?"

Qian Lihua replied without looking at him. "You better be prepared. If you still snore like how you did in the past, I will kick you off the bed."

Yu Meixia and Yu Qianqian laughed.

Liu Chenlong is overjoyed, and he quickly walks back into the apartment.

Dong Xuebing is also happy for them.

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Chapter 693: Research on FORWARD

Next morning.

The sun rises early during the summer, and it's up before 6 am.

Dong Xuebing woke up and rubbed his eyes. He immediately got off his bed and went to wash up. Yu Meixia and Yu Qianqian had stayed at Qian Lihua's apartment yesterday, and it seems they will be staying there for a while. He didn't want to disturb their family reunion and did not call them. He prepared a simple breakfast for himself and looked at the time. It's still early for work, and he looks out from his living room windows.

Yu Meixia called.

Dong Xuebing answered and heard Sister Yu say in a soft voice. "Xiao Bing, it's me. Are you awake?"

"Yes. Where are you now?"

"I'm at my mother's apartment."

"Where are they?"

"They are still sleeping."

Dong Xuebing smiles. Liu Chenlong and Qian Lihua had been divorced for years, and both of them are not attached. He can guess what they had been doing last night. He wants to ask if Sister Yu had heard anything last night, but they are her parents, and it's too embarrassing to ask.

"How do you feel?"

Yu Meixia replied. "My Mum wants Qianqian and me to live with her. I want to ask you for your opinions."

Dong Xuebing replied. "Why are you asking me this? You can decide for yourself."

"Qianqian likes your grandmother a lot, and I think I will be living with her."

"Haha…. Qianqian likes your grandmother, and what about you? You don't like her?"

"No…."

Yu Meixia suddenly asks awkwardly. "Xiao Bing…. I…. I want to borrow money from you. I will repay you after I start working. Can…. You lend me money? It's fine if you can't."

Dong Xuebing blinked. "Why do you need money?"

"I…. I want to buy some gifts for my parents. I had not been around them for years, and I hope to make up for them. I…. I also don't want to use their money."

Dong Xuebing readily agreed. "No problem. Are you still using the same bank account? I will transfer money into your account when the bank opens. Is 200,000 enough?"

Yu Meixia got a shock. "No need…. I don't need that much. 5,000 is enough."

"Then I will transfer 50,000 to you. Just keep it and let me know if it is not enough." Dong Xuebing will never reject Yu Meixia.

"Ok. Thank you."

"We have been together for so long. What's there to thank?"

"Yes."

Dong Xuebing is feeling thankful after hanging up. Yu Meixia would rather use his money than her parents' money. This means she treated him closer than her parents. Although blood is thicker than water, they had only met each other for one day. They need time to bond.

Slightly past 6 am.

Dong Xuebing looks at the time and opens the window to enjoy the fresh air and scenery.

Too many things had happened yesterday, and Dong Xuebing needs time to digest it.

For example, Sister Yu had reunited with her birth parents.

The discovery of FORWARD's uses.

Saving Qian Lihua's life.

Dong Xuebing recalls everything that had happened yesterday, and his focus is on FORWARD.

FORWARD can forward the time of the newspaper box to the next day, and the next day's newspaper will appear in it. There's no doubt about the authenticity of that copy of the newspaper as the time, location, and description of Qian Lihua's accident had been accurate. This matter had cleared many doubts in Dong Xuebing's mind. He concluded that the future could be changed. He had stopped the accident, and it gave him the confidence to change the future. No one else in the world can do this except for him.

Suddenly, there are noises outside of the apartment.

It sounded like footsteps and rustling of newspapers.

Dong Xuebing turned to the door and walked over immediately. He looked out through the door viewer and saw a man delivering a newspaper. That man turned and left after delivering today's newspaper.

Today's newspaper is here.

It's the copy of the newspaper Dong Xuebing got yesterday with FORWARD.

Dong Xuebing's heart is racing as he opens the door. He looked at the plastic newspaper box and took out his keys to open it.

A copy of the newspaper is in the box.

Dong Xuebing took it out and looked at the date.

Dong Xuebing returned to his living room after closing the door and sat on the sofa to read it.

The headlines and contents of that political news remained unchanged.

But the article about that accident was changed to an article about Nan Shan District's meeting on environmental issues. Dong Xuebing flipped the newspaper, and that drink driving accident news article is on the third page. Qian Lihua's name was also not mentioned in the article. Other news articles and advertisements in the newspaper are still the same.

The future had been changed, and a new question arose in Dong Xuebing's head.

FORWARD had pushed forward the time of the newspaper box to turn it into the 'next day's' box. Then why is the newspaper he received today not the day after that 'next day's' copy?

Dong Xuebing thought for a while and concluded. FORWARD's power can only work on an object for that moment. He pushed forward the time of that newspaper box to the next day, and the next day's newspaper appeared in it at that moment. This is the power of FORWARD, but it will not continue. This means the newspaper box's time had been pushed forward, and the time has no connection with the next day. When the delivery man delivered today's newspaper, the box became today's newspaper box again.

Dong Xuebing got the answer and took out that newspaper with Qian Lihua's article. He looks at it and burns it with his lighter.

FORWARD.

Dong Xuebing knows he must put this new command to good use in the future.

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Chapter 694: The low point of Xiao Dong's career

A few days later.

It's August, and the weather has gotten cooler.

Friday morning. Dong Xuebing drove the Subdistrict Office's new Santana to the Nan Shan District Committee building for a meeting. It's a meeting on the District's green landscaping work, and most of the District's leaders and other Subdistrict Offices' Leaders had arrived. The District Government staff are busy preparing the documents and materials.

The meeting room becomes quiet when Dong Xuebing enters.

Many people glanced at Dong Xuebing and continued with their work.

"Old Liu, you are here."

"I just arrived. What time did you come?"

"I arrived early. Eh? Old Li, you are here too. I thought you had fallen sick."

"It's not anything major. I am fine after some rest."

"Haha…. That's good to know."

The Leaders greeted each other warmly and sat together. But no one is willing to speak to Dong Xuebing.

Dong Xuebing knew this would happen and is used to it. That's why he purposely arrives just before the meeting starts.

A while later, Mayor Geng and her staff arrived.

The meeting started, and everyone sat at attention.

Dong Xuebing looks at Geng Yuehua's expression. She still looks unapproachable, and she does not look at him. She acted as if they didn't know each other. She spoke about the District's green landscaping work, and Dong Xuebing is not listening. He looks at her curvy body and thinks about which bra and underwear she is wearing under her suit. Is she wearing that red lacy translucent underwear or that bright green set? He had not met Geng Yuehua for almost a month other than work. She seems very busy with work and did not return to the Subdistrict Office Family Quarters. She also did not reply to Dong Xuebing's SMS, and her tone sounded stiff when she answered his calls.

Suddenly, Geng Yuehua stopped talking.

Everyone is looking at Geng Yuehua, wondering what happened.

Geng Yuehua stares at Dong Xuebing coldly. "Director Dong!"

"Huh?" Dong Xuebing looks at her. "Mayor Geng?"

Geng Yuehua continued in a cold tone. "Repeat what I had said earlier!"

Everyone at the meeting turns to Dong Xuebing.

Dong Xuebing is speechless as he thinks to himself. You had talked for almost ten minutes, and I don't have your script. How can I repeat everything you said? Furthermore, Dong Xuebing had not been listening to her. He was admiring her body and guessing what she was wearing underneath.

Dong Xuebing kept quiet.

District Mayor's secretary, Ma Jian, frowned as she looked at Dong Xuebing.

Executive Deputy Mayor Shen Fei shook his head.

The air in the meeting room becomes stiff. Geng Yuehua coldly says. "If anyone of you is not interested, you can submit a report to let me know. I will allow you to skip this meeting." Although she sounded like she was talking to everyone, she was obviously targeting Dong Xuebing.

The troublemaker Dong Xuebing got scolded again. Everyone has lost count of the times he had been scolded this month.

The other Leaders are trying to hold back their laughter.

The meeting ended after one hour, and Geng Yuehua left the meeting without looking at anyone.

Dong Xuebing looks at Geng Yuehua's sexy back and ruffles his hair. His life is getting harder, and it will be harder if this carries on.

Dong Xuebing had acted as if nothing had happened during this month. He did his job at work, but he is under a lot of stress. Although Wang Anshi has not recovered, his faction has made things difficult for his Subdistrict Office. It's the same for the Geng Faction. He understands why Geng Yuehua had been targeting him. Everyone knows he had sent Geng Xinke to the Party School, and she needs to show others her attitude.

It's harder for Dong Xuebing to work as time passes.

District Party Committee's faction and the Mayor's faction are suppressing Guang Ming Subdistrict. Dong Xuebing doesn't know when they will give him the killing blow.

Dong Xuebing doesn't like this feeling of waiting for something bad to happen.

The District Party Committee and Government are isolating dong Xuebing. No Leaders are willing to speak to him, and most departments are unwilling to work with his Subdistrict Office.

Guang Ming Subdistrict has become an ornament and is powerless to do anything. Geng Yuehua is the acting Party Secretary, and she will not do anything to Dong Xuebing except for some scolding. But it's different for Wang Anshi. Dong Xuebing refused to treat his appendicitis, which offended him greatly. He will not let Dong Xuebing off when he returns.

The situation is not good.

Wang Anshi will be discharged from the hospital soon, and Dong Xuebing must think of a solution.

Late morning. Guang Ming Subdistrict Office.

Dong Xuebing was prepared when he offended everyone. But when he thought back, he realized he was too na?ve and rash. He regrets not listening to Yang Zhaode's suggestion to transfer to another District. Although he might have to start from zero again, he does not need to face many obstructions and enemies. It's much easier for him to rise to the top than now. He is facing obstruction in everything he does now. How is he going to help the Subdistrict Office get results? All he can do now is play games in his office.

Dong Xuebing thought about his problems and felt something was going to happen. He knows if this carries on, he will lose his position as someone will attack him.

I will face all dangers head-on and return the favor if anyone dares to mess with me.

This has been Dong Xuebing's way of working. He calmed down after a while and thought about it. When is this going to end? He is confident in his abilities, but this is not the solution. Even if he brings one of his enemies down, the second and third enemies will appear. Other than venting his anger, it will not end his problems. He stands nothing to gain from it.

Dong Xuebing is not considering how he is going to fight against others. He needs a solution to get out of this situation.

Results.

Political achievements.

These are the things Dong Xuebing needs now.

Dong Xuebing had come to Nan Shan District for two months. The Role Model Unit award is an achievement, but it's not enough. He needs to get another outstanding result to get promoted on an exceptional basis. Once he is promoted, he can leave this place and move on.

But this is not an easy task.

Dong Xuebing can't even do his work properly due to the obstructions and suppression from other departments. No one will allow him to get results.

Dong Xuebing is at his lowest point since joining the Government service, and it's hard for him to make a comeback. Countless people within the Government service will give in to the pressure and resign when they are at the lowest point of their career. He doesn't want to be one of them.

Dong Xuebing snubbed his cigarette and rubbed his temples.

He needs a turning point to make a comeback.

What should he do?

Results…. Results to help him get promoted to Deputy Director.

Dong Xuebing noticed the newspaper on his desk. It's Fen Zhou Daily, one of the newspapers the Subdistrict Office subscribed to. He immediately got an idea. If he can use FORWARD to see the future, he might get a chance.

But Fen Zhou City is too big. Yan Tai County and Nan Shan District are part of Fen Zhou City. There might not be any news on Nan Shan District in the papers, which will waste his precious time. What about Nan Qi Daily? But Nan Qi Daily also covers a wide area. Dong Xuebing only needs to see what happened in Guang Ming Subdistrict.

For example, are there any upcoming manpower changes or future work reports in the papers?

These cannot be found in the City's newspapers. Even if an article on these appeared in the papers, it would not be detailed. Also, FORWARD can only bring forward the time for a short period. Dong Xuebing cannot take this risk. He needs a foolproof solution.

Oh yes.

The Subdistrict Office has internal papers.

Dong Xuebing remembers it's an e-newspaper for internal circulation.

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Chapter 695: Earthquake is happening soon

Afternoon.

Dong Xuebing looks at the time and its lunch break.

An Office Department staff knocked on the door and entered Dong Xuebing's office to deliver a document. Dong Xuebing said to him. "Help me get Director Zhou to come to my office."

"Yes." That staff left.

A while later, Zhou Yanru knocked and entered Dong Xuebing's office. "Director, are you looking for me?"

Dong Xuebing looked at Zhou Yanru and laughed. "What's wrong? You look listless."

Zhou Yanru forced a smile. "I'm fine. I am not feeling well."

"Then you should take care of your health."

"Yes. I appreciate your concern."

Dong Xuebing knows the reason why Zhou Yanru becomes like this. She has nothing to do. It might be fine for someone with no ambitions. But it's torture for someone ambitious like Dong Xuebing. He needs to get results, but there's no work to do, and he doesn't want to spend the rest of his life like this. He can tell Zhou Yanru is also an ambitious person. That's why he felt apologetic towards her for causing this situation. He had implicated everyone in the Subdistrict Office and caused Guang Ming Subdistrict to be 'blacklisted.'

Dong Xuebing is determined to change the situation as it is no longer about him. He created this mess, and he needs to be responsible for it. He must lead Guang Ming Subdistrict to achieve something great, or he will disappoint himself, his subordinates, and the residences.

Dong Xuebing looked at Zhou Yanru with determination. "You should take a break if you are not feeling well. I asked you to ask you about our Subdistrict's internal e-newspaper. I remember we have something like this."

Zhou Yanru is puzzled. "Internal e-newspaper?"

"Don't we have it?" Dong Xuebing asked. "I overheard about this from some staff."

Guang Ming Subdistrict doesn't have many staffs, and it's not directly under the City Government. It is also not an important department, and they can't have their e-newspaper.

Zhou Yanru thought for a while and realized what Dong Xuebing was referring to. "Are you talking about our Subdistrict Office's website bulletin?"

"Where is it? Let me see."

Zhou Yanru walked over to Dong Xuebing's PC and opened their Subdistrict Office's website. "This is our Subdistrict's website which was set up last year. Two of our Work Party Office staff are in charge of updating our Subdistrict Office's latest news for internal circulation. You can also call this our internal newspaper." The site's header states Guang Ming Subdistrict, and it looks like any other government website.

This is what Dong Xuebing is looking for. The site has all the announcements from the various Subdistrict departments and neighborhood committees. Most of the news is positive news and seldom has negative ones. But this is not enough for him. "Does this e-newsletter have printed copies?"

"Yes." Zhou Yanru doesn't know why Dong Xuebing wants to look at this. "This newsletter is updated once a week on average, and it will be pasted on the noticeboard at our Service Lobby. Sometimes it will be updated once every three days, and sometimes every two weeks.

Yes. This is it.

Dong Xuebing reply immediately. "Print an extra copy and deliver it to my office from now on."

"No problem." Zhou Yanru smiled. "I will inform them when I get back."

Dong Xuebing nodded. "Oh, tell those people in charge of the website to publish a new copy of it within these two days and bring it to my office before office hours." He looked at his desk and opened the first drawer on his right. He will place his cigarettes and lighters in it, and it's empty most of the time. "Here. Tell them to place it in this drawer when they deliver it."

Zhou Yanru was puzzled, but she still nodded. "Ok."

Dong Xuebing asked Zhou Yanru to return to work after giving her the instructions.

It was lunchtime, but Dong Xuebing did not go downstairs for lunch. He touched the drawer on his right and thought about his instructions to Zhou Yanru.

There should not be any problems, and Dong Xuebing believes Zhou Yanru will take his words seriously.

The next issue…. The next's next issue…. The issue after that…. All these issues should appear in this drawer. Alright. Let's start.

Dong Xuebing cleared his mind and took a deep breath.

He focused on that drawer a few moments later and gently placed his hand on it.

FORWARD.

FORWARD is activated, and Dong Xuebing can feel his remaining time getting lesser.

Dong Xuebing is taking a huge gamble this time. He will use up all the time he saved over the past few weeks, hoping to find an opportunity to break the stalemate.

Ten minutes passed.

Thirty minutes passed.

Dong Xuebing sat in his office without moving. He looks frozen in place with one hand on the drawer. Suddenly, he felt FORWARD was deactivated. He must have used up all his remaining time. One minute of FORWARD is equivalent to one day, and he should have pushed forward the time to more than one month.

It's time to see the results.

This must not go wrong.

Dong Xuebing pulled open the empty drawer nervously.

A copy of the printed e-newspaper is in the drawer.

Success!

It worked!

Dong Xuebing glanced at the header and the date on the top right corner.

This is more than one month later copy!

Dong Xuebing is overjoyed. He crossed his legs and looked at the headlines with anticipation. But his excitement was gone when he saw the headline, and he almost fell off his chair.

Damn!

Are you joking with me?!

Dong Xuebing felt he damn unlucky. The bold red headline states the earthquake in Fen Zhou City is amended to 8.0 on the Richter scale!

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Chapter 696: One month to the earthquake

Afternoon.

Work Party Secretary Office.

Dong Xuebing stares at the copy of Guang Ming Subdistrict Office's internal e-newspaper without saying a word. Is this a joke?

Fen Zhou City's earthquake has been amended to 8.0 on the Richter Scale?

An 8.0 earthquake is going to happen in Fen Zhou City!

Dong Xuebing dares not to continue reading the e-newspaper. He put it down, walked to the window, and lit a cigarette. This is too shocking. Earthquakes over 7.8 happened in China before, but it's rare for such strong earthquakes to happen in densely populated cities like Fen Zhou City. If the earthquake happens, it will be devastating. Residential and commercial buildings, schools, and houses might collapse, and hundreds of thousands of people will be affected by it.

This piece of news is real.

An earthquake is going to happen.

Dong Xuebing paced around in his office and snubbed his cigarette. He returned to his chair and started reading the e-newspaper.

This copy of the e-newspaper is printed after the earthquake.

The article states the earthquake happened a few days ago, and the epicenter is confirmed to be in Da Feng County. Fen Zhou City is confirmed to be the worst-hit zone. Numerous buildings are damaged, and there are countless victims. 89,223 people are killed, 379,112 people are injured, and 35,103 are missing. Dong Xuebing's heart sank when he saw the figures. It's only a few days after the earthquake, and the death toll is almost one hundred thousand. This number will continue to rise because of the aftershocks. All the buildings on the streets and neighborhoods at the epicenter should be collapsed.

Dong Xuebing quickly opened another drawer and took out a Fen Zhou City map.

If the earthquake's epicenter is at Da Feng County, Yan Tai County, and Nan Shan District, which are near it will be the disaster zone. There's no way for Dong Xuebing to avoid that.

Damn!

Why is this happening?

Dong Xuebing is frustrated. This is an unavoidable disaster.

Dong Xuebing looked at the papers again, hoping to see the earthquake-affected zones. But Guang Ming Subdistrict's e-newspapers only state the incidents within their jurisdiction. The article did not state the damage of other Districts and Sub-districts. A few pictures on the e-newspaper show a collapsed billboard on the road, crushing a few cars. The building at the back is full of cracks. A shop selling construction materials beside the building had collapsed. The shop's signboard can be seen among the debris.

This is Guang Ming Subdistrict after the earthquake.

Dong Xuebing took a deep breath. He had driven past this area before, which will become ruined after the earthquake.

Dong Xuebing continues reading the following pages of the e-newspaper. It reported the damage from the disaster in Guang Ming Subdistrict in detail and pictures.

Dong Xuebing is looking terrible as he reads the papers.

Guang Ming Subdistrict's damage is too severe. Dong Xuebing knows his Subdistrict will be affected because its population is higher than other towns and villages. But he did not expect it to be so severe. A set of figures on the last second page made him speechless. The death toll in Guang Ming Subdistrict reached 827, 2,200 people were injured, and 121 people were missing after the earthquake and aftershocks.

Dong Xuebing cursed out loud when he saw the figures.

The death toll is nearly one thousand!

Only tens of thousand people lived in the Subdistrict when they checked previously.

The ratio of the victims against their population is….

Dong Xuebing got to the last page of the e-newspaper. Guang Ming Subdistrict's number of victims is among the top five in Fen Zhou City's Districts, towns, and villages.

At the end of the article, Dong Xuebing saw his name.

Guang Ming Subdistrict Office Director and Work Party Secretary Dong Xuebing took responsibility and resigned.

Dong Xuebing slapped his forehead and locked the copy of the e-newspaper in another drawer.

Took responsibility and resigned?!

I was forced to resign?!

That's right. Although earthquakes are natural disasters and are unavoidable, people can take precautions. For example, most residential and commercial buildings are built to withstand 6 to 8 earthquakes nowadays. Most buildings should survive the earthquake. He can strengthen the residents' knowledge of taking precautions against disasters and clearing the escape routes. These are the duties of the Subdistrict Office. Guang Ming Subdistrict Office Director should take responsibility for it. Even if he had done his job well, the higher-ups would need a scapegoat to take the blame.

There's still one month to the earthquake.

Dong Xuebing only has one month in his job.

Dong Xuebing frowned. He thought he could use FORWARD to find an opportunity to get results and be promoted. But he found out that he could not even keep his position because of the disaster. The number of people killed and injured is bothering him. These people are his residents, and it was his job to protect them.

Almost one thousand people are going to die!

Dong Xuebing banged his desk in anger.

That's right. Those people are not dead yet!

The earthquake still has not happened yet! This e-newspaper is from the future!

Dong Xuebing is forced to a corner. Without any way to escape, his fighting spirit rose. Since he knows the earthquake is happening, he must do his best to change the outcome!

There's still one month!

Chapter 697: Persuasion

Afternoon.

Subdistrict Office.

Dong Xuebing enters the cafeteria after lunch hours. He is starving.

"Do you all still serve lunch?" Dong Xuebing asked at the counter.

The Chef quickly replies. "Director, you still have not eaten?"

Dong Xuebing nodded. "I had some work to do. It's fine if there's no more food."

"We still have." The Chef replied. "But it's cold. Let me heat the food first."

Dong Xuebing waved his hand. "Don't bother. I don't mind. Just give me a serving. Thank you."

"Ok. Please wait for a while." Although the cafeteria had been outsourced, everyone working there knows this young man is the highest-ranking officer at the Subdistrict. The cafeteria staffs have a good impression of Dong Xuebing because he is polite and respectful towards everyone. Even when he said he didn't mind eating cold food, the Chef still asked his assistant to heat the dishes quickly before giving them to Dong Xuebing.

Dong Xuebing sat by the windows and ate slowly. He is thinking about how he will face the upcoming 8.0 earthquake.

Food feels tasteless when Dong Xuebing has something on his mind. He is starving, but he doesn't have an appetite. He puts down his chopsticks and looks around. He is the only person in the cafeteria, and the kitchen staff is resting at the back. He took out his phone and called Yang Zhaode.

Ring… ring… ring….

Dong Xuebing took a mouthful of vegetables while waiting for Yang Zhaode to answer.

"Hello, Xiao Bing." Yang Zhaode answered cheerfully.

"Uncle Yang, are you busy?" Dong Xuebing swallowed his food and asked.

"No. I just finished lunch and am resting in my office."

"Can I take up some of your time? Err…. I have something to ask you."

"Haha…. Did someone provoke you again?"

Dong Xuebing is speechless. "No. It's not about that." He organized his words in his mind and said. "It is about earthquakes."

Yang Zhaode paused for a second and laughed. "Why are you asking about earthquakes?"

Dong Xuebing replied. "I can't stop thinking about it. A friend from an overseas National Earthquake Administration told me that there's a high possibility of a major earthquake happening in Hebei Province in the next few years. You should know the devastating damage from earthquakes, and I felt our City should take precautions to prevent high losses and death tolls. Uncle Yang, I hope you can raise this issue to the City's Party Committee and discuss ways to lessen the damages from a major earthquake."

Yang Zhaode is speechless. "An earthquake is going to happen in Hebei Province? Is this a medium-term earthquake forecast?"

Dong Xuebing doesn't know what that means and replied. "I think so."

"Huh? What do you mean? I have not received any news about this. The Province's Earthquake Administration will have reported it to us if there's a forecast. But we have not received anything."

"Ah… there's nothing wrong to take some precautions."

"Xiao Bing, you should know that I am from the Organization Department. How am I going to bring up about earthquake precautions to the Party Committee?"

"But you are also a City Party Committee member. Anything that concerns the City concerns you."

"Let me put it this way." Yang Zhaode helplessly reply. "There's nothing to hide from you. Although overseas are more advanced in forecasting earthquakes than our country, the medium-term forecast and short-term forecast are not 100% accurate. Also, our National Earthquake Administration had not issued any earthquake warnings to Hebei Province. I don't know where you got this information, but it must be a rumor that cannot be trusted."

Dong Xuebing is getting frustrated. "Uncle Yang, you never know what will happen in the future."

"You are too pessimistic. How can there be an earthquake suddenly?"

"Didn't earthquakes happen suddenly without warning previously? Who knows what will happen?"

"Xiao Bing, what's wrong with you today?"

"I am worried. Our City is densely populated, and it will be devastating if a major earthquake happens."

"Don't worry. Nothing will happen." Yang Zhaode reminded. "Luckily, you told me about this. Remember, you must not tell others about this. If not, this is considered spreading earthquake rumors, and you might be charged for it. I am not joking with you."

"Uncle Yang! Can you bring it up during your Party Committee meeting?"

"It's not that I don't want to help you. I will help you if it is about your work issues, but earthquake…."

"What if an earthquake happens?"

"What if it doesn't? I am confident that this will not happen."

Knock… knock… someone knocked on Yang Zhaode's door. "I have a visitor. Xiao Bing, stop thinking about this."

Du… du… du… Yang Zhaode hangs up.

Dong Xuebing threw his phone on the table and continued eating his lunch. He thought for a while and called Xie Huilan.

Xie Huilan giggled when she answered. "Hello?"

"What are you doing?"

"Haha… make a guess."

"How do I know what you are doing? Reading reports?"

"Almost. I am writing a speech for tomorrow." There's some rustling of papers in her background. "You need my help?"

"How do you know I need your help?"

"You can't hide anything, and I can tell from your face. It's the same for your voice too. Tell me about it. What trouble have you created again?"

Dong Xuebing is speechless. Why are you all keep assuming that I had created trouble? Am I a troublemaker? Hmmm…. Fine…. I admit I create some troubles, but you all should not keep talking about it. "I am not in any trouble. I want to tell you something. Do you know about earthquakes? I am not referring to the earthquakes within the government sector. I am talking about the real earthquakes."

Xie Huilan laughed. "Do you think I know about it?"

Dong Xuebing replied. "Even a three-year-old kid knows about earthquakes. How can you not know about it?"

"Since you know I know about it, why are you asking?"

"Hehe…. Are you trying to pick a fight with me? I am trying to talk to you nicely. Sister Xie… Huilan… Comrade Xie… can you be more serious? I am talking about a serious matter now." Dong Xuebing doesn't want to argue with her. "I heard from a friend that a major earthquake might happen in Hebei Province soon. It will be an earthquake measuring more than 7.0 on the Richter scale. You should know the destruction of a major earthquake, and I hope you take precautions. Yan Tai County must be prepared, or it will be too late when it happens."

"Are you drunk?"

"What are you talking about? I still have not finished my lunch."

"Then why are you talking about earthquakes? I have not received any information. You must not believe in these rumors."

"I would rather believe it than regret later."

"Are you out of your mind?"

"My mind is very clear. Just tell me that you will get Yan Tai County to take precaution."

Xie Huilan paused for a second. "We have been focusing on economic developments, but we had not forgotten about earthquake precautions. Isn't this enough? I don't see the need to focus on earthquake precautions now. It will be a waste of resources, and it will be formalism."

"Why is there no need to take precautions? Is the County ready for an 8.0 earthquake?"

"We are not prepared for an 8.0 earthquake. But how do you know an earthquake is happening? Did you hear it from someone else?"

Dong Xuebing doesn't know how to answer Xie Huilan. He can't explain how he knows about it. "Just be prepared! Do you think I will harm you?"

"This is not about whether you are harming me or not. As the head of a County, I cannot waste precious resources on a rumor. Let's stop talking about this, ok?"

"Sister Xie!"

"Haha…. Even if you call me Mum, I will not entertain you."

Dong Xuebing is mad after hanging up the call. Xie Huilan doesn't believe him and what she said made him angrier.

Dong Xuebing took a deep breath and is not giving up. He immediately calls Geng Yuehua.

Geng Yuehua answered. "What is it?"

Dong Xuebing went straight to the point. "It is about earthquake prevention. Mayor Geng, can our District conduct an earthquake prevention exercise? It would be best if all Subdistrict Offices could conduct such exercises. I heard from a friend in the Earthquake Administration that an earthquake is going to happen in our Hebei Province…."

Geng Yuehua interrupted. "No!"

"Yuehua! Listen to me…."

"I have no time for your nonsense! Bye!"

"Damn! I am not drunk!"

Du… du… du…. The other party hangs up.

Dong Xuebing slapped his forehead and put down his phone. He doesn't know what to say.

Yang Zhaode doesn't believe him.

Xie Huilan doesn't believe him.

Geng Yuehua doesn't believe him.

These people are the closest to him, and if they don't believe him, no one will believe him.

Dong Xuebing knows he cannot blame them. If anyone told him to take earthquake precautions yesterday, he would kick him out!

But a major earthquake is going to happen soon!

Dong Xuebing had tested FORWARD, and the earthquake will surely happen in about one month!

Dong Xuebing has no mood to continue eating. He stepped out of the cafeteria and looked at the bustling buildings outside. He narrowed his eyes. He can't convince Yang Zhaode and the rest to take precautions, but he can get Guang Ming Subdistrict prepared. He can still make the decisions here. Even if no one believes him, he must still do his best. He must protect the residents of his Subdistrict.

He must try his best to save everyone.

Let's start with Guang Ming Subdistrict and forget about everything else now.

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Chapter 698: No one can die

Next day.

Saturday, late morning.

Dong Xuebing is not working today, but one word kept appearing in his head. Earthquake!

Dong Xuebing took a deep breath and finished his breakfast quickly. He has no time to waste. He sat on the sofa with the future e-newspaper and a notebook to write his proposal. He needs to jot down everything he needs to do and plan everything before the earthquake. Most importantly, he needs to lower Guang Ming Subdistrict's casualties and hope to get zero death. He needs to convince Yang Zhaode, Xie Huilan, and Geng Yuehua. If he can't convince them once, he will try again until he succeeds.

The countdown has started for the earthquake.

Dong Xuebing has no choice. He needs to lower the casualty and death to keep his job. If he fails, it will be the end of his career, and thousands of people will die because of him. He can't afford to lose it.

There's one month left.

It is up to him now!

After completing his proposal, Dong Xuebing decides to use whatever methods he can think of to convince others.

Dong Xuebing smiled and switched on his laptop. He connects his phone to his laptop and bombards Xie Huilan and Geng Yuehua with SMS and emails about the casualties figures of recent earthquake disasters in China and other countries. He did not send it all in one SMS or email. He sent every disaster in one SMS and an email and sent tens of such SMS and emails!

Sent!

Send completed!

Send completed!

Dong Xuebing doesn't know how Xie Huilan and Geng Yuehua will react when they receive his SMS and emails. But he knows they will be mad.

Ring… ring… ring…. Dong Xuebing's phone rings.

Geng Yuehua called, and she shouted the moment Dong Xuebing answered. "Dong Xuebing! What the hell are you doing!?"

Dong Xuebing nonchalantly replied. "Don't be angry, Mayor Geng. I just want to let you know about the severity of an earthquake disaster. This is very important."

"Nonsense!" Du… du…. Geng Yuehua hangs up.

The next moment, Dong Xuebing received an SMS from Xie Huilan.

"Do you have nothing else to do?"

Dong Xuebing replied. "You must consider my suggestion seriously. Who knows if an earthquake will happen or not? You must treat this seriously."

Xie Huilan replied. "Haha…. I will consider about it."

Dong Xuebing smiled and replied to Xie Huilan's SMS. "Are you trying to brush me off?"

Xie Huilan: I can only consider it now. Please stop sending these messages to harass me. It's not easy to have a rest day. Haha….

Dong Xuebing rolled his eyes. He knows it's not easy to convince them, but Xie Huilan's slight change in attitude gave him hope.

The doorbell rings.

Dong Xuebing opens the door, and a young man in courier uniform is standing outside.

"Did you call for courier services?" That man asked.

"Yes. I need to send something." Dong Xuebing let that young man in and took out a few parcels for him. "These two are for Yan Tai County, Nan Shan District. This is for the City. I will give you the address now." These parcels contain earthquake-related documents and videos. He had prepared them last night. The two parcels for Yan Tai County are sent to Xie Huilan's office and her apartment. The ones for Nan Shan District are for Geng Yuehua, and the parcel to be sent to the City is for his mother.

After the courier left, Dong Xuebing called his mother, Luan Xiaoping. "Mum, are you working today?"

Luan Xiaoping replied. "I am preparing my curriculum at home. What is it?"

"Oh, I had sent some materials on an earthquake to you."

"Earthquake? Your Uncle Yang had told me about you yesterday…."

"I can't explain it now. Mum, I just want to ask you one question. Who is closer to you? Uncle Yang or me?"

Luan Xiaoping laughed. "Of course it's you. You are my son."

Dong Xuebing smiles. "Then do me a favor. You must play the video I prepared in the parcel when Uncle Yang returns. You must make him watch it and look at the materials I sent to you."

"What are you trying to do?"

"Mum, just listen to me."

"…… fine. I will try."

"Thank you, Mum. I will leave this to you."

Dong Xuebing had completed his task of convincing them today. He will bombard them every day until they are convinced, as this is for the good of Fen Zhou City's residents and Xie Huilan and Geng Yuehua's career advancement. As a lowly Subdistrict Office Director, he was forced to resign after the earthquake. Who knows what punishment Xie Huilan and Geng Yuehua will get? Maybe they will be terminated or demoted. So, he must not stop convincing them.

Morning, 10 am…

Dong Xuebing takes a sip of water and is prepared for his next move.

Dong Xuebing has no control over other areas. He can only remind and warn them, but he can do more in his Subdistrict. Of course, he cannot go around shouting, 'an earthquake is coming!' Yang Zhaode had reminded him that spreading rumors on earthquakes is a serious offense. But there's nothing wrong with getting the Subdistrict to take precautions against natural disasters.

Dong Xuebing looked at the first page of his notebook. He had written down the number of people injured and killed by a heath wine factory's advertising boards in Guang Ming Subdistrict. Forty-three people died because of this factory's advertising boards. All of this factory's advertising boards have serious defects, and four out of five advertising boards crashed down during the earthquake. The billboard Dong Xuebing saw in the e-newspaper picture is one of this factory's advertising boards. These 43 casualties are either crashed or met in traffic accidents due to the advertising boards falling onto the roads.

Dong Xuebing will target this health wine factory's advertising boards first!

Dong Xuebing will not let these 43 people die in his Subdistrict! He is not going to let anyone in his Subdistrict Office die!

This might sound impossible, but Dong Xuebing must try to make it happen!

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Chapter 699: Advertising Board

Late morning.

It is a windy day with strong gusts of winds.

Dong Xuebing puts away his notebook. He knows what he should do and is about to return to the Subdistrict Office to investigate it.

Suddenly, Dong Xuebing's phone rang.

The caller speaks urgently. "Director Dong, I am Xiao Chen from the Office Department."

Dong Xuebing asked. "What is it? Did something happen?"

"I received news that an advertisement board in Liu Xiang Neighborhood had fallen."

"Advertising board?" Dong Xuebing's face changed. "Is anyone injured? Who is at the scene?"

"I had just received a call from them, and I called you to inform you. I don't know about the situation there."

"Alright. Notify your Director Zhou and ask her to go over immediately. I am on my way."

Dong Xuebing put down his phone and frowned. He was about to rectify all the advertising boards, and this incident happened. This means the advertisement boards in his Subdistrict are a major hazard. He grabbed his bag and rushed downstairs to his Santana. He drove it towards the accident site, and he received more information about that accident on his way. He was told that the advertisement board had injured someone.

Slightly more than ten minutes later.

A road in Liu Xiang Neighborhood.

When Dong Xuebing arrived, he saw a five-meter advertisement board hanging dangerously by the roadside. One of the hinges had given way, secured flimsily by a screw on the other hinge. The whole thing might fall anytime.

Zhou Yanru had arrived, and she went over to greet Dong Xuebing. "Director!"

"What is going on?" Dong Xuebing looked towards the commotion and saw two people arguing. A crowd had formed around them.

Zhou Yanru quickly explain. "One of the hinges of the advertisement board had broken because of the wind, and it hit someone when it fell."

"Is that person ok?"

"Luckily, she only suffered light injuries."

"Where is she?"

"Inside."

Dong Xuebing is relieved and walks closer. He looked at the advertising board and Health Wine Factory's advertisement. He realized that this advertisement board is not only a hazard during an earthquake. It is a safety hazard for everyone in Guang Ming Subdistrict now!

Dong Xuebing walked over to the crowd and saw a middle-aged woman arguing with a middle-aged man in a suit.

The woman had suffered some injuries, and her sleave was torn. She is shouting angrily. "Are you trying to kill me?! If my reaction is slightly slower, I would be dead!"

The man replied emotionlessly. "This is an accident."

"What do you mean by accident? How can a gust of wind blow your advertisement board down? You all must compensate me, or I will not let you off!"

The man replied. "I am Song Qingming, the boss of the Health Wine Factory. We are sorry for this accident, but we are not responsible for it. It is the advertising company we hired who had not fastened the advertisement board securely."

The woman shouted. "Where are the people from the advertising company?"

"Their company had closed down, and we can't find them." Song Qingming replied.

The woman shouted again. "This is your advertisement board! How can you claim you all have nothing to do with it?!"

Song Qingming shook his head. "I had explained to you. We did not build and put up this advertisement board, and this accident has nothing to do with us. I hope you can calm down. No one had expected this accident to happen. We are willing to pay for your medical expenses on behalf of the advertising company. But we can't help with other compensations as we are not a charity organization."

The woman did not calm down. How can she be calm when almost killed by that advertisement board?

Song Qingming had maintained his composure until he lost his temper. He told that woman coldly. "I think we had done our part. You are not seriously injured, and we are willing to help the advertising company pay for your medical fees. Suppose you are not going to accept, fine. You can pay for your medical fees yourself. This accident has nothing to do with our factory. Go ahead and sue us if you want!"

The woman is mad beyond words.

Song Qingming turns to his assistant. "Let's go."

"Stop!" The woman shouted.

Song Qingming sneered. He pretended not to hear her and walked towards a Mercedes Benz by the roadside.

Dong Xuebing looks at Song Qingming and walks over slowly. He stands in front of that black Mercedes Benz and looks at him. "Mr. Song? Where are you going?"

Song Qingming gave Dong Xuebing a stare. "Do I need to tell you where I am going?! Move aside!"

Dong Xuebing laughed. "You are right. You do need to tell me."

Zhou Yanru interrupted. "This is our Guang Ming Subdistrict Office Director, Dong Xuebing.

"Director Dong?" Song Qingming immediately smiled and extended his hand for a handshake. "Oh, you are Director Dong. I had heard a lot about you."

Dong Xuebing shook his hand. "Don't mention it. What happened here?"

Song Qingming calmly replies. "This is the advertising company's issue. After they put up this advertisement board, their company collapsed. They might have some issues with the fixtures, but don't worry. I have called other companies, and someone will secure the advertisement board. Such accidents will not happen again. Sorry for alarming you."

Dong Xuebing smiles. "You still want to put it up? Mr. Song, you are treating this accident lightly."

"What's the problem?" Song Qingming laughed.

"There are lots of problems." Dong Xuebing stares at Song Qingming. "I think you should compensate and send that woman to the hospital first. You don't need to worry about the advertisement board. We will get people to remove it. If you want, you can remove it yourself."

Song Qingming's face changed when he heard this. "Remove it? Is this necessary?"

"What is more important than the residents' safety? An accident had happened, and a second or third accident might happen!"

"This is only an accident, and it will not happen again."

"It is not up to you to guarantee that."

Subdistrict Offices have the power to interfere in many areas. They can interfere in resident disputes, salary arrears, forced eviction, and removal of advertisement boards. This advertisement board is a safety hazard, and the Subdistrict Office has the right to take it down. Moreover, Dong Xuebing knew Song Qingming's advertisement boards would kill 43 people during the earthquake!

"This advertisement board must be removed." Zhou Yanru added. "It had caused an accident, and we will not allow this safety hazard to remain here."

Song Qingming's eyes become cold. He had been operating in Nan Shan District for more than ten years and knew many people. He often hears about the God of Plagues, Dong Xuebing, during a drinking session with his friends. This matter concerns his interest, and he will not allow anyone to interfere. His factory is not doing well and is facing cash flow issues now. He needs advertisements and marketing to promote his Heath Wine, and he cannot afford to remove this advertisement board.

"I am afraid I cannot agree to it." Song Qingming shook his head. "We had paid for this advertisement board and gotten the approval to put it up. It is in the contract."

Dong Xuebing added. "Mr. Song, I think you might have mistaken. I am not talking about this advertisement board. All of your company's advertisement boards in Guang Ming Subdistrict must be removed. You said this is the advertising company's fault and we must check every advertisement board. I need to be responsible to our residents. This is not a joking matter!"

Zhou Yanru is stunned. Remove all the advertisement boards?!

Song Qingming's face changed. "You all don't have the right to do this!"

"I'm afraid we do have this power." Dong Xuebing turns to Zhou Yanru. "Go back and check their company's advertisement board application documents now. Check if their advertisement boards are legal or not."

"…… Yes." Zhou Yanru replied and left.

Song Qingming got furious. "Director Dong! Is there a need for these?!"

"Yes!" Dong Xuebing replied. He is confident the Health Wine Factory's advertisement boards do not have the proper approvals to be put up!

Song Qingming forced a smile. "Can you give me 'face' and let this matter off?"

Dong Xuebing shrugged his shoulders. "I do want to give you 'face,' but who is giving me 'face'?"

Dong Xuebing is angry with Song Qingming. Your company's advertisement board had fallen and almost killed someone. The Subdistrict Office leaders are already here to investigate this accident, and you still want to put it up again? What if the advertisement board falls again? I will be held responsible for it! You are the one not giving me 'face' now! Dong Xuebing thinks about his resignation one month later. He knows it must have something to do with Song Qingming's advertisements!

A Health Wine Factory staff walked over. "Manager Song, ICBC bank's Director Tang is calling you about the loan."

Song Qingming gave Dong Xuebing a stare and took the phone from his subordinate. He walked a few steps away and answered politely. "Hello, Director Tang. I am Song Qingming…."

Song Qingming ended his call and turned to his staff. "Contact Manager Yu and ask him to get someone to put up the advertisement board again!"

The staff nodded.

Dong Xuebing had just asked Song Qingming to remove this advertisement board, and he asked his staff to put it up again. This is a provocation. He turns to Dong Xuebing. "Director Dong, I am very busy. I don't have time to entertain you."

Dong Xuebing narrowed his eyes. "Mr. Song, you are a businessman, and you should know the consequences of going against the government."

Song Qingming smiled cockily. "Unless your Subdistrict Office can the official documents to remove it, these advertisement boards are our company's properties! No one, including the Subdistrict Office, has the right to ask me to remove it!"

Dong Xuebing nodded. Fine. You want to challenge me?!

It's been a while since I taught people like you a lesson! I am looking forward to it!

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Chapter 700: Spotlight

Saturday.

Before noon.

Song Qingming knew he must give the Subdistrict Office's Leaders face after the accident. After all, they are the Leaders of this Subdistrict. He asked his men to pay for that woman's medical expenses and compensated her 2,000 RMB, hoping to settle this accident. After that, he returned to his factory with his assistant.

On the way to the factory, the assistant asked. "Boss, are we going to ask people to put up the advertisement board again?"

Song Qingming nodded. "The factory is not doing well, and we cannot afford any more losses."

"But Guang Ming Subdistrict Office…." The assistant felt uneasy. "Their attitude is a bit…."

"Ignore them!" Song Qingming replied. "We had paid the medical fees and compensated that woman. Just do as I say!"

"Yes. I will contact someone now."

"Get it up as soon as possible."

……

Song Qingming returns to his office at his factory.

He took out his phone and called Nan Shan District's Industry and Commerce Bureau Deputy Chief. "Hello, Brother Yan. I'm Qingming. I need your help."

Deputy Chief Yan asked. "Is it about the advertisement board?"

"You know about it?! There's a little problem now."

"Is it not settled yet? What happened?"

Song Qingming frowned. "It's Dong Xuebing from Guang Ming Subdistrict. I don't know when I had offended him, and he is making a fuss out of nothing. This is an accident because of the strong wind today. A woman suffered some minor injuries, and I went there immediately to settle it. I met Dong Xuebing at the accident scene, and he demanded I remove all my advertisement boards in Guang Ming District. He also asked his men to check our factory's advertisement boards application documents."

Deputy Chief Yang paused. "How did you offend him?"

"How do I know?" Song Qingming replied. "Today is the first time I met him. How do I know what's wrong with him? He is purposely finding trouble with me!"

"Dong Xuebing does things differently from others. It's hard to guess what he is thinking."

"Brother Yan, what should I do now?"

"I had told you to take note of the application process and documents, but you refuse to listen…."

"I will send someone over to submit the documents now. Is it in time?"

Deputy Chief Yan paused for a while. He doesn't want to get involved in this matter as he doesn't want to offend Dong Xuebing.

Song Qingming cleared his throat. "Brother Yan, it's just resubmitting the application paperwork. I will thank you personally after it is settled."

A few seconds later, Deputy Chief Yan replied. "Alright. Get someone over now."

Song Qingming tapped on his desk after he hung up. He needs to keep his advertisement boards up, affecting the factory's sales. His factory is facing difficulties and is raising funds by getting a bank loan. This is the second time his factory is applying for a loan from the bank, and he has not repaid his previous debt. He thought of many ways and used all his connections, hoping to approve this loan. He could not repay his previous loan if he didn't get another loan from the bank. If the bank wants to minimize their losses and get back their money, they must give him a second or even a third loan. This is Song Qingming's plan to get the loan approved. If his advertisement boards do not have all the approvals and have quality issues, his loan might not be approved.

Song Qinghua made another call to ensure his advertisement boards were not taken down. He called Nan Shan District Urban Administrative and Law Enforcement Bureau. "Hello, Team Leader Xia. It's me."

"Oh, Xiao Song. I was about to call you. I heard that something happens to your factory's advertisement board."

"Yes. That's why I am calling you for help."

"What is it? You want to remove it?"

Song Qingming told him what had happened. "I am afraid Dong Xuebing will not let this matter rest and forcefully remove all our advertisement boards in Guang Ming Subdistrict."

Team Leader Xia asked. "Dong Xuebing?"

"That's right. Do you think I should contact him privately?" Song Qingming is closer to Team Leader Xia than Deputy Chief Yan, and he doesn't need to hide anything from him. He is a businessman, and he will avoid offending the authorities if possible. He is asking Team Leader Xia if he should offer Dong Xuebing money to settle it.

Team Leader Xia got the hint and shook his head. "Dong Xuebing will not accept it."

Song Qingming asked. "What should I do then?"

Team Leader Xia replied. "Xiao Song, you should have heard about what is going on in the district. Dong Xuebing has offended many people and is in a bad situation. From what I know, Guang Ming Subdistrict Office had been ostracized by everyone for more than a month. They don't have any authority, and the District Government is looking for an opportunity to attack them. So, the person who should be worrying is Dong Xuebing and not you."

Song Qingming laughed. "I feel better after hearing what you said."

Team Leader Xia had taken many benefits from Song Qingming. "Let me offer you a suggestion. Secretary Wang is going to be discharged. Although I don't know why Mayor Geng did not go after Dong Xuebing, you should know about Secretary Wang's relationship with him. If Dong Xuebing insists on going after you, just drag it out and avoid any conflicts with him. Someone else will deal with him."

Song Qingming laughed. "This is the best advice I have received."

"Haha…. Stop your flattery."

"Team Leader Xia, if the Subdistrict Office wants to take down the advertisement board by force…."

"Don't worry. I will help you to delay it."

"Thank you."

Song Qingming felt much better after knowing Dong Xuebing was worse than him. Team Leader Xia's advice was too late as he had already clashed with Dong Xuebing earlier at the accident site. He could not take back his words, and he asked his assistant to return to the accident site to put up the advertisement board again. The God of Plagues might be infamous, and he had heard many people talking about him. What can he do without authority? Without authority, he is just a nobody. Song Qingming doesn't think a lowly Subdistrict Office Director can do anything to him.

Afternoon.

Knock… knock…. Zhou Yanru looks terrible when she enters the office. "Director."

Dong Xuebing has been waiting for her. "Have you checked the wine factory's advertisement boards' application documents?"

Zhou Yanru controlled her anger and replied. "I had talked to the District's Industry and Commerce Bureau, and they say their Leaders are not working today. They can only check the documents on Monday."

Dong Xuebing is furious. "How can they ask us to wait until Monday? This is urgent."

"That's what I said, but they refused to cooperate and gave lots of excuses. I think we might not even get the documents on Monday."

The District's Industry and Commerce Bureau refusal tells Dong Xuebing that Song Qingming knows someone with authority there. He will resubmit the proper documents before next week. It will be harder for Dong Xuebing to remove the advertisement boards.

Dong Xuebing's face changed. "What about the Urban Enforcement Bureau?"

"Director Wang is contacting them, and…."

Deputy Director Wang Yuling knocked on the door and entered. She is looking terrible. "Director, the Urban Enforcement Bureau refused to send their people. They want us to provide the removal paperwork first before they do anything."

Dong Xuebing thought Wang Yuling would succeed because she is the District Party Secretary's relative. But she failed.

Song Qingming had used his connections to go against the Subdistrict!

Also, someone in the District Government is trying to make this matter worse. Needless to say, it must be Wang Anshi's men!

Just like what everyone thinks. Guang Ming Subdistrict has become a weak kitten without any support from the District Government. Other departments will not cooperate with them, and they have been isolated. There's nothing they can do about it!

News of this incident spreads. Those staff who are working at the Subdistrict felt demoralized. If they can't even do anything within their Subdistrict, what's the point of having a Subdistrict Office?

At the same time, many District government staff heard about this incident and watched Guang Ming Subdistrict closely.

Everyone had ignored Dong Xuebing, but that does not mean he is out of the spotlight. He has been under the spotlight since last month. Many people are interested and watch his every movement. For example, news of Song Qingming going against the Guang Ming Subdistrict Office spread almost immediately. This is the first time someone is going against Dong Xuebing after he had offended all the top District Leaders. It will be humiliating if he cannot take down those advertisement boards.

Some staff is watching by the sidelines.

Some Leaders are trying to make matters worse for Dong Xuebing.

This small incident had placed Dong Xuebing in an awkward position. Forcefully remove the advertisement boards? No departments are willing to cooperate with him! Leave those advertisement boards alone? Dong Xuebing will lose respect and his authority!

Once Dong Xuebing showed his weakness, everyone he offended in the past will be going after him.

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Chapter 701: I will make you beg me to remove them

Afternoon.

The sun is shining brightly, and the sky looks like it's on fire.

Dong Xuebing is in his office thinking about the whole incident. He knows many eyes in the District are watching him. His enemies are waiting for him to embarrass himself, but this advertisement board incident had become a stalemate.

The District Government is turning a blind eye to it.

The Industry and Commerce Bureau is dragging it out.

The Urban Enforcement Bureau is refusing to do anything.

All these people are targeting Dong Xuebing and Guang Ming Subdistrict Office.

Dong Xuebing knows he must handle this incident well, not only for himself and his career. It is also for the 43 lives lost in the earthquake because of the advertisement boards. This is not about giving in to settle it. He needs the wine factory's advertisement boards to disappear from Guang Ming Subdistrict. There's no room for negotiations.

Zhou Yanru sighed. "Director, what should we do now?"

Wang Yuling is simple. "How about we send our people to remove those advertisement boards?"

"This is against the regulations because we don't have the removal paperwork." Zhou Yanru rejected her suggestion.

"But the Industry and Commerce Bureau is refusing to investigate, and they are going to drag it until next week." Wang Yuling felt terrible when she saw Guang Ming Subdistrict Office getting isolated.

Dong Xuebing calmed down. "Alright. That's it for today. Go back and rest. I will settle this myself."

Zhou Yanru and Wang Yuling exchanged looks and left.

Dong Xuebing looked at the time and left his office.

Dong Xuebing can hear those Subdistrict Office staff talking about this incident on his way to his car.

"When Director Dong was just transferred here, our Subdistrict Office is the best."

"That's right. But Director Dong had offended too many people now."

"What are the Industry and Urban Enforcement Bureau doing? We only want to remove those illegal advertisement boards."

"They see us as pushovers now and know we cannot do anything to them."

Dong Xuebing's eyes turned cold after he got into this car. Pushovers? We are not pushovers. That's right. He is in this plight because he has offended many Leaders and can't continue with his work properly. But they are wrong to think he is a pushover. Song Qingming, do you think I can't do anything to you? If he wants, he has more than a dozen ways to deal with Song Qingming without the District Government support. No one can imagine what he will do if he puts his mind on it.

Dong Xuebing drove to a restaurant to have his lunch. He parked his car in front of a restaurant and called the Wine Factory. He is giving Song Qingming one last chance. He knows how Song Qingming will respond, but he is still making this call. He is someone who does things openly. This is his working style. He is telling Song Qingming that he is going to deal with him.

Health Wine Factory.

Office.

Song Qingming is talking to ICBC bank's Director Tang.

"Director Tang, we are all depending on you to help us with the loan." Song Qingming lit Director Tang's cigarette.

Director Tang nodded. "Don't worry. Today's appraisal is only a formality. It will be approved."

Song Qingming laughed. "Thank you so much. Oh, what about the documents?"

"Next week." Director Tang replied. "Come over next week with the documents."

Song Qingming asked. "Our factory urgently needs this fund. Can your side give us the ten million…."

"The earliest is next week. There are a few more procedures to settle and cannot be rushed."

"Alright. Please help us look into it." Song Qingming has worked with Director Tang several times, and they are close.

Song Qingming walked Director Tang to the door and looked at him leave before returning to his office. His office phone rang.

The loan is settled, and Song Qingming is in a good mood. He answered the phone. "Hello?"

"Boss, Guang Ming Subdistrict Office Director Dong is on the line. He wants to speak to you."

Song Qingming frowned. "Transfer his call in."

The next moment, Dong Xuebing asked over the phone. "Is this Mr. Song?"

"Director Dong." Song Qingming asked. "What is it?"

Dong Xuebing calmly replied. "There's something I need to make clear to you. Your company's advertisement boards are serious safety hazards to our residents. I believe no one wants to see another accident like this morning again. I hope you will remove your advertisement boards as soon as possible. You are a businessman, but I believe a good businessman should not only focus on profits. He should also be responsible for society. What do you think?"

Social responsibility?!

Who are you to teach me what to do?!

Song Qingming shook his head. "I already said that it was an accident. We will get someone to strengthen the fixtures of our advertisement boards. We will not remove them as our factory cannot afford the losses, and I don't see the need to do that."

Song Qingming had heard about the Industry and Urban Enforcement Bureaus' response to Guang Ming Subdistrict Office. He knows these two District departments are unwilling to cooperate with Dong Xuebing, making him bolder. He knows Dong Xuebing can't do anything to him and will not listen to what he says. Dong Xuebing had offended everyone, and many people were waiting to deal with him. Also, most of the Leaders Song Qingming knows are from Wang's faction, and he is considered a member. Dong Xuebing had offended Wang Anshi, and he is his enemy.

Dong Xuebing continues. "If possible, I hope you will take the initiative to remove advertisement boards. Mr. Song, are you sure you are not going to remove them?"

Song Qingming sneered.

"Alright." Dong Xuebing laughed. "Since this is your attitude, then I am telling you this. Your advertisement boards in our Subdistrict must be removed, but there's no rush. Mr. Song, I will be waiting for you in my office to beg me to remove them." Du… du… du… He hangs up.

Song Qingming laughed.

I will beg you to remove them?! Are you out of your mind?!

Afternoon.

The sun is shining brightly, and the sky looks like it's on fire.

Dong Xuebing is in his office thinking about the whole incident. He knows many eyes in the District are watching him. His enemies are waiting for him to embarrass himself, but this advertisement board incident had become a stalemate.

The District Government is turning a blind eye to it.

The Industry and Commerce Bureau is dragging it out.

The Urban Enforcement Bureau is refusing to do anything.

All these people are targeting Dong Xuebing and Guang Ming Subdistrict Office.

Dong Xuebing knows he must handle this incident well, not only for himself and his career. It is also for the 43 lives lost in the earthquake because of the advertisement boards. This is not about giving in to settle it. He needs the wine factory's advertisement boards to disappear from Guang Ming Subdistrict. There's no room for negotiations.

Zhou Yanru sighed. "Director, what should we do now?"

Wang Yuling is simple. "How about we send our people to remove those advertisement boards?"

"This is against the regulations because we don't have the removal paperwork." Zhou Yanru rejected her suggestion.

"But the Industry and Commerce Bureau is refusing to investigate, and they are going to drag it until next week." Wang Yuling felt terrible when she saw Guang Ming Subdistrict Office getting isolated.

Dong Xuebing calmed down. "Alright. That's it for today. Go back and rest. I will settle this myself."

Zhou Yanru and Wang Yuling exchanged looks and left.

Dong Xuebing looked at the time and left his office.

Dong Xuebing can hear those Subdistrict Office staff talking about this incident on his way to his car.

"When Director Dong was just transferred here, our Subdistrict Office is the best."

"That's right. But Director Dong had offended too many people now."

"What are the Industry and Urban Enforcement Bureau doing? We only want to remove those illegal advertisement boards."

"They see us as pushovers now and know we cannot do anything to them."

Dong Xuebing's eyes turned cold after he got into this car. Pushovers? We are not pushovers. That's right. He is in this plight because he has offended many Leaders and can't continue with his work properly. But they are wrong to think he is a pushover. Song Qingming, do you think I can't do anything to you? If he wants, he has more than a dozen ways to deal with Song Qingming without the District Government support. No one can imagine what he will do if he puts his mind on it.

Dong Xuebing drove to a restaurant to have his lunch. He parked his car in front of a restaurant and called the Wine Factory. He is giving Song Qingming one last chance. He knows how Song Qingming will respond, but he is still making this call. He is someone who does things openly. This is his working style. He is telling Song Qingming that he is going to deal with him.

Health Wine Factory.

Office.

Song Qingming is talking to ICBC bank's Director Tang.

"Director Tang, we are all depending on you to help us with the loan." Song Qingming lit Director Tang's cigarette.

Director Tang nodded. "Don't worry. Today's appraisal is only a formality. It will be approved."

Song Qingming laughed. "Thank you so much. Oh, what about the documents?"

"Next week." Director Tang replied. "Come over next week with the documents."

Song Qingming asked. "Our factory urgently needs this fund. Can your side give us the ten million…."

"The earliest is next week. There are a few more procedures to settle and cannot be rushed."

"Alright. Please help us look into it." Song Qingming has worked with Director Tang several times, and they are close.

Song Qingming walked Director Tang to the door and looked at him leave before returning to his office. His office phone rang.

The loan is settled, and Song Qingming is in a good mood. He answered the phone. "Hello?"

"Boss, Guang Ming Subdistrict Office Director Dong is on the line. He wants to speak to you."

Song Qingming frowned. "Transfer his call in."

The next moment, Dong Xuebing asked over the phone. "Is this Mr. Song?"

"Director Dong." Song Qingming asked. "What is it?"

Dong Xuebing calmly replied. "There's something I need to make clear to you. Your company's advertisement boards are serious safety hazards to our residents. I believe no one wants to see another accident like this morning again. I hope you will remove your advertisement boards as soon as possible. You are a businessman, but I believe a good businessman should not only focus on profits. He should also be responsible for society. What do you think?"

Social responsibility?!

Who are you to teach me what to do?!

Song Qingming shook his head. "I already said that it was an accident. We will get someone to strengthen the fixtures of our advertisement boards. We will not remove them as our factory cannot afford the losses, and I don't see the need to do that."

Song Qingming had heard about the Industry and Urban Enforcement Bureaus' response to Guang Ming Subdistrict Office. He knows these two District departments are unwilling to cooperate with Dong Xuebing, making him bolder. He knows Dong Xuebing can't do anything to him and will not listen to what he says. Dong Xuebing had offended everyone, and many people were waiting to deal with him. Also, most of the Leaders Song Qingming knows are from Wang's faction, and he is considered a member. Dong Xuebing had offended Wang Anshi, and he is his enemy.

Dong Xuebing continues. "If possible, I hope you will take the initiative to remove advertisement boards. Mr. Song, are you sure you are not going to remove them?"

Song Qingming sneered.

"Alright." Dong Xuebing laughed. "Since this is your attitude, then I am telling you this. Your advertisement boards in our Subdistrict must be removed, but there's no rush. Mr. Song, I will be waiting for you in my office to beg me to remove them." Du… du… du… He hangs up.

Song Qingming laughed.

I will beg you to remove them?! Are you out of your mind?!

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Chapter 702: Ruthless

Saturday.

Evening.

Subdistrict Office Family Quarters.

Zhou Yanru called. "Director, I have something to report."

"What is it?" Dong Xuebing snubbed his cigarette.

"It's about the advertisement board outside Liu Xiang Neighborhood. The wine factory had gotten someone to put it up again.

Dong Xuebing narrowed his eyes. "Are they putting it up now?"

Zhou Yanru replied. "Yes. Their staff is working on it now. I had sent someone to stop them, but they refused to listen and insisted on completing the work tonight. Do you want me to send more people to stop them?" The Subdistrict Office had ordered to remove the advertisement boards. Still, Song Qingming ignored it and insisted on putting it up again. This made Zhou Yanru mad, as Song Qingming is going against the Subdistrict Office's orders openly. A businessman is challenging a government department.

"Director Zhou, ask our men to come back."

"But…." Zhou Yanru is pissed.

"I will handle it. If he wants to put it up, let him be."

Zhou Yanru paused for a second. What is Director Dong going to do? "Alright."

Dong Xuebing has been frustrated by today's events and can't be bothered to talk to Song Qingming again.

After dinner, Dong Xuebing called Qian Lihua on her mobile phone.

Ring… ring… ring…. "Hello, who is it?"

"Aunt Qian. I am Xiao Dong."

"Oh, Xiao Bing. Haha…. Is this your mobile number?"

"Yes. This is my number."

"Ok. I will save it later."

"How are Sister Yu and Qianqian?"

Qian Lihua smiled. "They are doing well. We had brought back their luggage from Yan Tai County, and they will be living at my place. Meixia's father and I had taken time off from work to accompany them these two days. I have just finished cooking, and we are about to eat."

They chatted for a while, and Dong Xuebing suddenly asked. "Aunt Qian, I…. I need a favor from you."

"You had saved my life and helped my daughter and granddaughter. Let's not talk about asking favors. Just tell me how I can help you."

"It's like this…." Dong Xuebing told Qian Lihua what happened today.

Qian Lihua frowned. "The advertisement board had fallen on someone, and they still dare to put it up again? The boss of this company is too much."

Dong Xuebing continues. "But our Subdistrict Office is in a bad situation now. Other departments are unwilling to work with us, and we can't do anything to that wine factory. That's why I am asking you for help."

"How can I help?"

"I overheard Song Qingming on the phone, and he seems to be applying for a loan."

"Loan? Which bank?"

"It's ICBC bank, and he was talking to Director Tang."

Qian Lihua thought for a second. "Tang Ming from the Credit department?"

"I am not sure about his full name. I know that the factory is trying to get a loan and might have cash-flow issues. I heard their factory is not doing well recently."

Qian Lihua laughed. "I seldom take note of loans less than 10 million and will only scan through during the final approval. I had assigned Tang Ming to handle these small and medium enterprises' loans. Director Tang, you mentioned, should be him. Alright. The factory's name is Health Wine Factory, right? I will check with my staff. Leave it to me if they apply for a loan with our branch. I know what to do."

"Thank you, Aunt Qian."

"Don't mention it. You are our family's savior, and this is a small issue."

Next day.

Sunday morning.

ICBC bank's Director Tang was having breakfast at home when his phone rang

Director Tang straightened his back when he saw the caller, and he answered. "Manager."

A middle-aged woman's voice sounded. "Tang Ming? Where are you now?"

"I am at home and am about to go to the office. Do you have any orders for me?" The person talking to Tang Ming is not the Deputy Branch Manager. She is the City ICBC Bank Branch Manager.

"Are you in charge of the Health Wine Factory's loan application?"

Tang Ming's heart skipped a beat. "Yes. The verification process is almost completed, and I am about to show it to you."

"You don't need to show me. I heard this wine factory's advertisement boards have serious problems. Put their application on hold first."

"Huh?" Tang Ming was shocked. "But…."

"I don't want to repeat myself." Qian Lihua hangs up.

Tang Ming's heart is pounding fast. He didn't know what went wrong and quickly called Song Qingming.

Song Qingming had arrived at his factory and met with two business partners.

"Mr. Song, your payment is late by one week." A middle-aged man said.

Song Qingming smiled. "Old Lui, the bank loan is settled, and I will have money before the end of next week. I promise you that once the loan amount is in, I will wire the payment to you."

The phone rings.

Song Qingming saw the caller ID and told those two men. "Please wait for a minute. I need to answer this call."

Song Qingming walked out to the corridor and answered the call with a smile. "Brother Tang." It must be the loan has been approved, and this call is to ask him to go to the bank for the final paperwork.

But Tang Ming's following sentence stunned Song Qingming.

Tang Ming said. "Your loan application has been put on hold."

"What?!" Song Qingming is stunned. "Director Tang, are you joking with me? Didn't you tell me the verification has been completed?"

"Yes, but the Branch Manager called me earlier and asked me to place your factory's loan on hold. She also mentioned your advertisement board."

"What has advertisement boards got to do with my loan application?"

"I can't do anything to help you with the loan now."

"Wait…." Song Qingming panicked. "My factory is having a serious cash-flow problem now. If I can't pay my suppliers, I can only shut it down. Our previous loan cannot be repaid, and your bank will also suffer losses. This…."

Tang Ming interrupted. "I'm sorry. I am helpless this time. It is our Branch Manager who wants to put your loan application on hold."

Tang Ming can still try to negotiate if the Credit Department's Head, the District Branch Manager, or the City Branch Deputy Manager gave this order. But the one who wants to put this application on hold is the City Branch Manager. She is the Head of the City's ICBC branch, and the loan will not be approved without her signature.

Song Qingming felt his soul had left his body after he hung up.

Everything was fine yesterday, and why did everything change today? Even the City's Branch Manager got involved. Song Qingming knows this is impossible as he is a nobody.

I must have offended someone. This is the consequence of offending someone.

Song Qingming immediately thinks of one person.

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Chapter 703: The God of Plagues is still the God of Plagues

Morning.

Health Wine Factory.

The bank loan application was put on hold, and Song Qingming was forced to a corner. He immediately calls for an emergency meeting with his staff to find a solution. But there's no solution. His precious loan is from ICBC bank, and it's not fully paid up. No other banks will issue any loans to his factory with this outstanding debt.

What should I do? I am going to be bankrupt.

Song Qingming turns pale. He had fallen from heaven to hell after one day, and he could not accept it.

What is going on?

When did I offend the City's Bank Manager?

Suddenly, Song Qingming remembers what Dong Xuebing said over the phone yesterday.

"I will be waiting for you in my office to beg me to remove them." This sentence is like a knife stabbing his heart. Song Qingming's face changed. Director Tang had mentioned that the Branch Manager had brought up his advertisement boards. He doesn't understand why a small advertisement board falling off has become a big issue. That advertisement board had not fallen off entirely from the hinges, and no one was killed. Why is the Bank's Branch Manager so concerned about it? It must be Guang Ming Subdistrict Office's Dong Xuebing!

Dong Xuebing! You are too evil!

You bastard! This is trying to cut off my funds and kill me!

Song Qingming was furious and called the bank, hoping to negotiate with them. But Director Tang did not answer his calls, and the bank's attitude towards him changed. Without funding, the factory will be finished. All his hard work over the years will be in vain.

F*k! Dong Xuebing is ruthless! He didn't even leave a leeway!

Song Qingming immediately drove to Guang Ming Subdistrict Office.

Guang Ming Subdistrict Office.

Dong Xuebing is at his desk reading reports and documents when Zhou Yanru knocked and entered his office.

"Director, there's someone downstairs who wants to meet you." Zhou Yanru said with a weird expression.

Dong Xuebing looked up and smiled. "Song Qingming?"

Zhou Yanru is surprised. How did Director Dong know it was him? "Yes."

"Let him wait. Tell him I am busy and come back an hour later." Compared to yesterday, Dong Xuebing is very patient today.

Zhou Yanru is afraid things might go wrong. "He might be here because of the advertisement boards. You…."

"Just tell him I am busy now." Dong Xuebing replied emotionlessly.

Zhou Yanru is speechless. "Alright."

Downstairs.

Wang Yuling had just arrived for overtime work and saw Song Qingming standing outside the office building.

Zhou Yanru had returned downstairs. She looks at Song Qingming emotionlessly. "Director Dong is busy, and he asked you to wait."

Song Qingming is furious and knows Dong Xuebing is making things difficult. But he has no choice. He had thought about it on his way to the Subdistrict Office. He did not expect Dong Xuebing to know the City's ICBC Branch Manager so well to stop his loan application. Now, his factory's life is in Dong Xuebing's hands.

"Ok. I will wait here." Song Qingming politely reply.

Zhou Yanru is puzzled by Song Qingming's attitude and takes a second look at him.

Wang Yuling was also surprised. She quickly pulled Zhou Yanru into the building and asked. "Sister Zhou, what is going on? Why is he here?"

"I also don't know what is going on." Zhou Yanru looks out. "His attitude is strange too."

"That's right. This guy was very arrogant yesterday, and why did he change suddenly?"

"We will know in a while. Director Dong had purposely made him wait and will meet him an hour later."

Half an hour past.

Song Qingming got impatient of waiting. He had wanted to meet Dong Xuebing to reason with him, but he calmed down after thirty minutes of waiting. Fine. Since you want me to take down that advertisement board, I will do as you wish.

Song Qingming called the District's Urban Enforcement Unit's Team Leader Xia. "Hello, Team Leader Xie. Something happened at my side, and I think I should follow the Subdistrict Office's orders to take down that advertisement board."

A while later.

Work Party Secretary Office.

Zhou Yanru brought Song Qingming to the office. Wang Yuling also 'happens' to come to the office with a document for Dong Xuebing.

Dong Xuebing faked a smile. "Oh, Mr. Song. I'm sorry for letting you wait. I was busy with work earlier."

"It's alright." Song Qingming did not sit. "Director Dong, I think there might be a misunderstanding between us. I had thought about it this morning and realized we were at fault. We had caused trouble for the Subdistrict Office, and we are sorry. I had called the District Urban Enforcement Unit to inform them about our advertisement board outside Liu Xiang Neighborhood and asked them to help us remove it. We have submitted the removal applications."

Zhou Yanru and Wang Yuling were speechless. They did not expect Song Qingming had come to apologize. His attitude was very different from yesterday.

Dong Xuebing smiles as he looks at Song Qingming.

Fine. You are still trying to play tricks with me now. I had made myself clear yesterday, and it is not only about that advertisement board.

Dong Xuebing did not care about what Song Qingming thought. He had given him a chance yesterday, and that's more than enough. "That advertisement board is not enough. Mr. Song, I don't care about other Subdistricts. Still, all the advertisement boards, especially yours, in our Subdistrict must be checked."

Ring… ring… ring…. Dong Xuebing's office phone rings.

"Let me answer this first." Dong Xuebing picks up the phone. "Hello, I'm Dong Xuebing."

"Director Dong, I am Xia Yan from the Urban Enforcement Unit. Our men are reaching Liu Xiang Neighborhood, and we will be removing that illegal advertisement board."

Dong Xuebing glanced at Song Qingming and laughed. "Why do you want to remove that advertisement board? How come we are not informed?"

Team Leader Xia frowned. "We confirmed that there are some issues with that advertisement board, and it was your Subdistrict Office who reported it yesterday."

Dong Xuebing laughed. "We did contact the Urban Enforcement Unit yesterday. But that was yesterday, and it's different today."

"Director Dong, what do you mean?" Xia Yan is frustrated. You all are the ones who wanted us to remove it. Why are you changing your mind now?

Dong Xuebing is someone who bears grudges. He wanted the Urban Enforcement Unit to remove the advertisement boards, but they refused to cooperate. They are the ones who ignored what he said, and they want to remove it because Song Qingming asked them to do it. F*k you! "I think you all should go back since you all have not reached. Our Subdistrict Office can handle it ourselves."

Team Leader Xia coldly replied. "We have arrived."

"Ok." Dong Xuebing laughed. "Our Subdistrict Office is closed today, and the cafeteria is not open. We cannot provide lodging and meals for you all. Please go back."

Team Leader Xia is furious. Guang Ming Subdistrict Office's Dong Xuebing is a troublemaker like the rumors.

Dong Xuebing puts down the phone and looks at Song Qingming with a smile.

Zhou Yanru and Wang Yuling exchanged looks.

Song Qingming finally saw Dong Xuebing's way of working and was speechless.

"Mr. Song, is there anything else?" Dong Xuebing asked. "Please leave if you have nothing else. The advertisement board is not urgent. We can talk about it another time."

It is not urgent for you, but it is an urgent matter for me!

My factory's bank loan application is still on hold!

Song Qingming is finally scared when he sees Dong Xuebing's attitude towards the District's Urban Enforcement Unit. He is afraid Dong Xuebing might ask the bank to put his loan application on hold for one to two months. His factory will have to shut down. Without the factory, his advertisement boards will have to be taken down. He knows Dong Xuebing is capable of doing this. He remembers what Dong Xuebing said. "You beg me to remove them."

I need to beg him to remove those advertisement boards.

The biggest troublemaker of Nan Shan District is not someone I can challenge.

Why did I provoke him in the first place?! I should have concentrated on my business.

After Song Qingming left, Zhou Yanru asked. "Director, should we ask the Urban Enforcement Unit to remove it? They…."

Dong Xuebing laughed. "Don't worry. Someone will remove them."

The advertisement board, which had fallen, was put up again. It might look small, but everyone in Nan Shan District is watching them.

Ignoring the Subdistrict Office's orders and putting up the advertisement board again?!

This is a challenge and provocation to the Subdistrict Office.

Dong Xuebing's enemies are watching and laughing at him.

But when everyone thought Dong Xuebing would be humiliated, the wine factory's boss Song Qingming, took down the newly put-up advertisement board on the same day. He paid for a team of contractors to remove it and all five other advertisement boards in Guang Ming District. His actions had surprised everyone.

Is Song Qingming crazy?

Song Qingming was still aggressive and firm yesterday. Why did he give in today? He had removed all his advertisement boards himself. This is demeaning to himself.

Many people can guess what happened. Song Qingming was forced to remove those advertisement boards because of Dong Xuebing.

It only took Dong Xuebing one day to tame Song Qingming, which surprised many people.

Even without authority and being suppressed, the God of Plagues is still the God of Plagues!

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Chapter 704: Earthquake preventive and mitigation measures

Monday.

Morning. Cloudy.

Guang Ming Subdistrict Office staff arrived at work and heard from their coworkers, who were around yesterday, about what their Director Dong did yesterday.

"Have you heard about it, Old Liang?"

"I heard it's about the advertisement boards."

"Haha…. You should have seen that wine factory's boss's arrogant face. He has no respect for us."

"The District Government had isolated our Subdistrict. Who will respect us? What happened yesterday?"

"The Health Wine Factory had put up an advertisement board near my place, and I saw workers removing it last night."

"Huh? Why did they remove it? Why did Song Qingming get people to remove it? What is he up to?"

"It's true. I heard about it when I was working overtime yesterday."

"That factory boss is stupid to think he can go against our Director Dong."

Dong Xuebing arrived at work. He did not hear what his staff were talking about, but he knew it must be about removing the advertisement boards.

Dong Xuebing had shown everyone his capabilities through this incident. This is also his way of establishing his authority and warning the other Leaders not to provoke him. He is not a pushover, and they must be prepared for his retaliation if they dare to try anything. Don't think you can kick me when I am down because I offended the District Party Secretary Wang.

I want to see who else dare to play these dirty tricks with me! I will retaliate if anyone dares to provoke or challenge me.

Dong Xuebing had walked a path full of 'dead bodies' and had diverted away from the norms of the Government Service. But he had no choice. At the lowest point of his career, he also wants a smooth sailing career path. That's why he is very concerned about the upcoming Earthquake. He needs to lower the casualties of the Earthquake. He wants to protect all of his residents. This is also to protect his position and get promoted out of Nan Shan District.

Work Party Secretary Office.

Dong Xuebing called the Subdistrict's Party Office Department when he reached his office. "Director Zhou, did the wine factory remove all their advertisement boards?"

Zhou Yanru laughed. "I sent my people to check this morning. All of them are removed."

"Ok." Dong Xuebing added. "Make sure all advertisement board applications are properly verified and check all their fixtures. This wine factory's advertisement boards should not be the only ones with quality issues. We should check all advertisement boards in our area these few days. Those advertisement boards that failed our inspection must be removed immediately. Also, write a report and send it to the District Government."

"Yes. I will lead my men to do it."

"Ok. I will leave it to you."

Dong Xuebing has finally cleared one item from his to-do list.

The Earthquake is coming in slightly more than twenty days, and he has lots of work to do.

Dong Xuebing doesn't have time to waste. He switched on his PC and started looking for related information online. His next step is to increase his residents' earthquake prevention and mitigation awareness.

Most people should know that buildings and walls will not collapse immediately during a major earthquake. There will be a buffer time of around five seconds to ten seconds. Also, those old houses and buildings are not made of paper, and the epicenter is at Da Feng County. The shockwaves in Nan Shan District should not be as strong as 8.0 on the Richter Scale. The immediate reaction when the Earthquake happens is the most important. From the information and data Dong Xuebing collected, most earthquake casualties happen when they panic. They could not find suitable shelters and were unprepared, resulting in tragedies. If everyone knows what to do during an earthquake, most of them can survive. That's why earthquake prevention and mitigation awareness are critical.

Dong Xuebing remembers he had learned these in school, but he forgot about it after years. Even a university graduate like him had forgotten about it, let alone those residents. Most people should lack this knowledge. He believes that at least half of the almost one thousand victims can survive if they know what to do. But he needs an excuse to start this initiative.

Dong Xuebing does not want to be charged for spreading earthquake rumors and got an idea. He called the Office Department to call all neighborhood committees' heads to come for a meeting.

Morning.

Meeting room.

As usual, Dong Xuebing was the last to arrive. But before he reached the meeting room, he noticed a familiar person walking towards him. It's Work Party Committee Deputy Secretary Geng Xinke.

Geng Xinke looks at Dong Xuebing in his eyes. "Director Dong, I am back."

Dong Xuebing laughed. "Secretary Geng…. Haha. When did you come back?"

"The Party School's training had ended, and I just came back." Geng Xinke replied emotionlessly.

Dong Xuebing walked over and patted his shoulder warmly. "Xinke, you are finally back. The office cannot do without you."

Geng Xinke felt goosebumps when he heard Dong Xuebing calls him Xinke.

Dong Xuebing laughed. "Let's go. We are having a neighborhood committee meeting now."

Geng Xinke frowned and felt uncomfortable. He doesn't understand why Dong Xuebing is so friendly towards him. He must be up to something. Geng Xinke immediately becomes wary of him.

Everyone is there when Dong Xuebing enters the meeting room.

All the Subdistrict Office Leaders and the neighborhood committees' people in charge are at the meeting.

Dong Xuebing sits at the head of the table and picks up the microphone. He did not waste time and went straight to the point. "I have a few tasks for you all. You all should have heard of Wenchuan Earthquake, Yushan Earthquake, the recent major earthquakes in Indonesia and other countries. These disasters had caused devastating losses, and many people lost their family, friends, and their homes." Earthquakes are happening everywhere in the world, almost every day. He uses this as an excuse to talk about the impact of a major earthquake.

Everyone's expression is different when they hear this.

Dong Xuebing looks at everyone and continues. "So, I feel there's a need to start Earthquake preventive and mitigation measures in our Subdistrict. We cannot prevent natural disasters, but we can take precautions and be prepared for them. This is necessary." He paused for a second. "All neighborhood committees will start with this initiative to spread awareness of preventive and mitigation measures of Earthquake. The heads of every neighborhood committee must lead their team to give out brochures to every household. Everyone, including those staying here temporarily, must be informed. This is a political mission."

People start talking among themselves.

"Earthquake preventive and mitigation measures?"

"This is formalism."

"Why are we doing this? This is a waste of manpower and resources."

"Promotional brochures for every household? How much will it cost? Is the neighborhood committee going to foot the bill?"

Geng Xinke, Zhou Yanru, and other Subdistrict Office Leaders are puzzled. Why did Dong Xuebing want to start this initiative suddenly? The earthquake preventive and mitigation measures awareness campaign only happens when the Earthquake Administration Bureau orders. There are no orders from the higher-ups. Even if an order is given, it will only be conducted in schools. There's no need to implement it for all households and everybody. The Subdistrict Office's annual budget is limited. How are they going to get funds to implement it?

Many people are unhappy with this decision.

But Dong Xuebing is not seeking anyone's opinion. "The Subdistrict Office will print the brochures. Director Wang, you are in charge of the brochures. Come and get the information from me later and discuss with Director Zhou for the funds." He turns to Wang Yuling. "I will repeat this. This promotion campaign is vital. Even if you have to put aside your other works, you must settle this as soon as possible. You don't need to wait for all the brochures to be printed before giving them out. These brochures can be given out in batches. I want to see progress tomorrow."

Wang Yuling blinked. "Yes. I will complete this task."

Dong Xuebing nodded. "All neighborhood committees should start preparing when you get back. Let me know if there are any problems."

Everyone did not object, and they couldn't say anything.

Although they felt this campaign is a waste of time, they must do it as it is an order from the Subdistrict Office.

Dong Xuebing looked at them and nodded. "Alright. Meeting dismissed!"

Geng Xinke shook his head in his heart and wondered what is Dong Xuebing up to this time.

Translator's note:

2008 Wenchuan Earthquake

https/en./wiki/2008_Sichuan_earthquake

2010 Yushu earthquake

https/en./wiki/2010_Yushu_earthquake

Chapter 705: Angry

Tuesday.

Late Morning.

The first batch of earthquake preventive and mitigation awareness brochures are printed. But due to budget constraints, the quality and layout are not nice. Nevertheless, it can still be used, and Dong Xuebing is satisfied. He sent these brochures to Liu Xiang Neighborhood as more one-story houses are there.

After lunch, Dong Xuebing watched Wang Yuling print the second batch of the brochures before bringing her to Liu Xiang Neighborhood to monitor them.

Wang Yuling is driving. "Director, should we notify them first?"

"No need. We will go there unannounced." Dong Xuebing is going to conduct a sudden inspection.

When Dong Xuebing was a Staff Member, he hated Leaders conducting routine and sudden inspections. He felt they have nothing to do and is trying to pick on the staff. But after he became a Leader, he realized the importance of these inspections. If you don't watch them or give them pressure, they will think their task is unimportant. They will not do their best. He will be using this sudden inspection to warn all neighborhood committees and let them know the importance of this task.

At the entrance of a Hu Tong.

Wang Yuling parked the car. A red banner with an earthquake preventive and mitigation slogan is hung up. A table full of brochures is under the banner, and the Neighborhood Committee Secretary Song Qing is sitting there. A few Neighborhood Committee members are sitting or standing around him. A few residents would look at the brochures and take one, but most residents would just walk away without looking at them.

Dong Xuebing got mad when he saw this.

A Neighborhood Committee staff beside Song Qing saw Dong Xuebing and quickly told him.

Song Qing looks up and quickly walks over to welcome them. "Director Dong, Director Wang, why are you all here?"

Dong Xuebing replied. "I am here to see how you all are doing."

"We have set up the promotion points." Song Qing had worked with Dong Xuebing during the forced demolition of illegal buildings in the neighborhood a few weeks ago. Dong Xuebing was newly transferred to the Subdistrict then, and he left a deep impression on Song Qing when he fought against more than a dozen hooligans. "This is one of the promotion points, and the other is on the east side of the Hu Tong. Our neighborhood has set up four points, and we are giving out these awareness brochures."

Dong Xuebing's face changed. "Is this how you all give them out?"

Song Qing paused for a second. "Err…." He felt he had done nothing wrong as they had been giving out these information brochures this way in the past.

"What did I say during yesterday's meeting? Did you forget?" Dong Xuebing got mad. "I asked you all to give out the brochures to every household, and you all just place all the brochures on a table for the residents to take it themselves. Is this how you all do things?"

Song Qing is speechless, and the other Neighborhood Committee staff dare not say anything.

Dong Xuebing points at the table. "It will be a miracle if 10% of the residents get these brochures with your method. I don't care how you all created awareness in the past, but this method cannot carry on. I am telling you this again. I want every household to get a brochure." He suppressed his anger. "Alright. If you all don't know what to do, I will teach you all. Gather all your Neighborhood Committee members, staff, and neighborhood activists, and knock on every door. Register every household that receives the brochures and doesn't leave them on their doors. You all must meet someone from the household. If old people can't read, you all must explain to them and make sure they understand. If no one is at home during the daytime, go back at night. If the resident still has not come back at night, return the next day. I don't care what you all do, and I only want to see results! Every household must receive at least one brochure!"

Song Qing is sweating. Is there a need to be so serious?

Wang Yuling passes a bottle of water to Dong Xuebing.

Dong Xuebing took a sip and looked at Song Qing. "What's wrong? Did I not make myself clear?"

"Yes. I will do it now." Song Qing quickly sent his staff to contact the other staff and ordered two staff to knock on every household in the Hu Tong with the brochures. He saw Dong Xuebing is so concerned about this awareness campaign, and he immediately picked up the loudhailer. He stood in front of the Hu Tong and shouted. "Everyone! The Subdistrict Office is conducting earthquake prevention and mitigation awareness campaign now. We have prepared brochures for you all! Come and get it!"

Song Qing's shouts attracted many residents.

"Earthquake prevention and mitigation brochures?"

"Eh, give me a copy."

"I want a copy too. Thanks."

Wang Yuling also helped give out the brochures and answer the residents' queries. She also helped explain what the residents should do when an earthquake happens.

Dong Xuebing nodded and felt better.

Song Qing saw Dong Xuebing's expression and was relieved. After shouting for a while, his voice became hoarse, and Dong Xuebing called him over. "These brochures must be given out, and I want the residents to read every page of it. This is harder than giving them to every household. Secretary Song, you have been working at the grassroots level for many years and understand the residents better than I do. Do you have any suggestions on how to do this?"

"Hmmm…." Song Qing thought for a while and answered. "How about we organize a quiz with prizes?"

Dong Xuebing immediately got interested. "Tell me about it."

"We can print multiple-choice quizzes about earthquake prevention and mitigation awareness. The questions in the quizzes must be different, and let the residents take the quiz at our promotion points. Every quiz should have around five questions, and if the resident got all correct, they could get a small gift, like face towel, toothpaste, mugs, etc." Song Qing continued. "The gifts must be practical, or else the residents will not be interested."

"This is a good idea." Dong Xuebing thought about it for a while and nodded. "Let's do this. I will let the Work Party Office Department prepare the quizzes and gifts and start with your neighborhood. If the result is good, we will implement it in other neighborhoods. Even after we started these quizzes, you all must not stop other promotional methods."

"Yes."

Chapter 706: Convincing the Pretty Mayor

Three days….

Five days….

Seven days….

One week had passed.

Guang Ming Subdistrict Office's earthquake prevention and mitigation awareness campaign have been ongoing for a week. All the Neighborhood Committee had followed Dong Xuebing's instructions, and almost all households have received a copy of the brochures. Dong Xuebing also used Song Qing's suggestion and let the residents take quizzes at their promotion centers. Most residents read the brochures to win the prizes from the quizzes. Not all residents can remember everything on the brochures. Still, at least one member of their household remembers it. This is enough to save their family during the earthquake.

Nothing in the world is difficult for one who sets his mind to it.

Everything is proceeding according to plan.

However, this incident had created controversies among the other Subdistrict Offices and the District Government. Problems start to surface.

Earthquake prevention and mitigation awareness? Those, who heard of what the Guang Ming Subdistrict Office is doing, felt Dong Xuebing has nothing better else to do. Why are you having this campaign now when nothing happens?

Dong Xuebing is at Huai An Neighborhood to inspect the Neighborhood Committee and gives orders to the staff. He ordered them to clean up an old building and clear the corridors and stairwells of obstacles. His phone rang. It was the Mayor's secretary, Ma Jian.

"Hello, is this Director Dong?" Ma Jian asked coldly.

"Secretary Ma. It's me." Dong Xuebing replied.

"Come to the District Government office now. Mayor Geng wants to meet you."

"Oh, what is it about?"

"You will know when you come."

"Ok. I will go over now."

Dong Xuebing felt he needs to speak to Geng Yuehua. A few days ago, the advertisement board incident made him realize that he needed the District Government's support for his plans. He had to go through difficulties to remove a few advertisement boards, and he still had other plans. He can imagine how difficult it will be to implement them. Also, his Earthquake prevention and mitigation awareness campaign had hit a bottleneck, and the Subdistrict Office doesn't have enough budget. He still needs to buy tents, stock up on disaster relief supplies, and print more brochures. Without money, all these will not happen. To get the District Government's support, he needs to convince Geng Yuehua first.

District Party Committee Building.

Many people look at Dong Xuebing when he drives his Santana into the compound.

When Dong Xuebing got out of his car, Ping An Subdistrict Office Director Chu Qinghua walked out of the building.

"Director Dong." Chu Qinghua walked over to Dong Xuebing with a fake smile. "I heard your Subdistrict is holding Earthquake prevention and mitigation awareness campaign. What are you trying to do?"

Dong Xuebing looks at Chu Qinghua and smiles. "Taking precautions."

Chu Qinghua shook his head. "Bro, I am not criticizing you, but is this necessary?"

"Why not? Nothing is more important than the residents' safety."

"Fine. Good luck." Chu Qinghua shook his head and left. He knows Dong Xuebing had made a stupid move. Everyone is trying to improve the economy, but he started an awareness campaign. This is asking for trouble, and the District Government will not allow it.

Upstairs.

Mayor Office.

Knock… knock…. Dong Xuebing knocked on the door.

"Come in." Geng Yuehua said monotonously.

Dong Xuebing composed himself before entering the office, and he saw the slim and sexy woman behind the desk. After Geng Yuehua's visit to his apartment one month ago, he had not seen her again. He wonders if she purposely avoids him or is very busy with work. He missed her badly and kept thinking of her body.

Geng Yuehua is wearing brown pants, black heels, and a white blouse.

Geng Yuehua looked up at Dong Xuebing and asked. "Do you know why I call you over?"

"No." Dong Xuebing looked at her. "What is it about?"

Geng Yuehua said coldly. "Somebody had feedback that your Subdistrict Office is holding Earthquake prevention and mitigation awareness campaign. Is it true?"

Dong Xuebing nodded. "Yes. This is for our residents' safety, and…."

"I don't want to hear your explanation." Geng Yuehua continues writing her report. "Stop it immediately."

Dong Xuebing frowned. "Why?"

"You should know why." Geng Yuehua continued. "Did you report this to the District Government? Is this campaign included in this year's work report? Stop it if it is not in the report. I am warning you now." She hit a stack of documents on her desk. "We had received numerous complaints and calls about you all. What you are doing now is spreading fears. What were you thinking? Go and clean up the mess you created!"

Dong Xuebing argued. "Mayor Geng, I had told you that a friend of mine had told me a major earthquake might happen in Hebei Province." He knows this excuse cannot convince her and gives another excuse. "Of course, I checked with him again, and he was talking nonsense as he was drunk that day. But who can predict earthquakes? Who knows if a major earthquake will happen in our Hebei Province? There's nothing wrong with taking precautions. Earthquakes are happening everywhere worldwide, and I am scared it might happen here. What's the problem?"

Geng Yuehua stares at Dong Xuebing coldly. "You are full of excuses! This is formalism!"

Dong Xuebing retorted. "I don't know what others told you, but I have a clear conscience."

"Dong Xuebing! I am not discussing with you." Geng Yuehua stared. "I am ordering you to stop as the District Government's Mayor!"

"Mayor Geng!"

"That's all!"

"I…."

"Get out!"

Geng Yuehua shouted and ignored Dong Xuebing. She continues to write something on a document.

Dong Xuebing took a deep breath. "This is not a place to talk. Can you come to the Subdistrict Office Family Quarters tonight?"

Geng Yuehua did not reply.

"I will wait for you and will explain to you in detail. Ok?"

"I asked you to get out!" Geng Yuehua looked at him. "Are you deaf?!"

Dong Xuebing replied helplessly. "I will be waiting for you tonight. You must come."

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Chapter 707: Conquest plan

Evening. 8 pm.

The sun has set.

Dong Xuebing walks around his living room with a cigarette between his finger. He kept looking out of the window as he waited for Geng Yuehua. He is frustrated by her attitude towards him and wonders what she is thinking. Does she like him? Why is her attitude so bad towards him if she likes him? If she hates him, why did she sleep with him twice?

Xie Huilan….

Geng Yuehua….

These two women are hard to read.

Dong Xuebing hesitates, but he needs to do this as his Earthquake prevention and mitigation awareness campaign cannot stop. He needs a plan to convince Geng Yuehua.

Suddenly, two cars enter the compound.

Dong Xuebing walked over to the window and looked downstairs. Geng Yuehua's driver had stopped the car.

Geng Yuehua and Ma Jian alighted from the car. They seemed to have attended a function earlier.

"Mayor Geng, I will go back now." Ma Jian said politely.

Geng Yuehua nodded. "Don't forget to prepare tomorrow's documents."

Ma Jian replied. "Yes, I will print it later tonight."

Geng Yuehua waved her hand emotionlessly and walked into the building.

Dong Xuebing is happy. Geng Yuehua has not come to the Subdistrict Office Family Quarters for more than a month. She finally comes back despite scolding him this afternoon.

But Dong Xuebing did not go and see Geng Yuehua immediately. He knows it is impossible to persuade her when she's awake and alert. Her character is similar to Xie Huilan, and both of them will not change their minds easily once they decide. He needs to talk to her when she is sleepy. When someone is sleepy, their defense will be lower.

Wait….

Wait….

Midnight.

Dong Xuebing is struggling to keep awake. He straightened his clothes and hair in front of the mirror and walked over to the opposite unit. He pressed the doorbell.

Ding dong… ding dong….

Dong Xuebing thought Geng Yuehua might be sleeping and not hear the doorbell. He is prepared to press the doorbell a few more times and wait. The door opened a few seconds after the doorbell rang, to his surprise. She is standing there in a white blouse and brown pants.

Geng Yuehua asked coldly. "What is it?"

Dong Xuebing smiled. "You…. Are you sleeping yet?"

"Can't you tell if I am sleeping?" Geng Yuehua stares at Dong Xuebing coldly. "What do you want?"

Dong Xuebing leaned forward and said softly. "Let's talk inside. It's not convenient here. Let me go in first."

Geng Yuehua looks at Dong Xuebing for a few seconds before opening the metal gate to let him in.

Dong Xuebing knows Geng Yuehua's sleep time should be around 10 pm or 11 pm. He wants to ask if she is waiting for him. But he knows she will not answer this question.

Geng Yuehua ignored Dong Xuebing after letting him in. She walked to the sofa and started flipping the newspaper.

Dong Xuebing closed the door and sat beside her. "I am here to talk to you about the Earthquake prevention and mitigation awareness campaign."

"Stop!" Geng Yuehua threw the newspaper aside. "I had made it clear today that this will not change!"

"But…."

"If you have nothing else to say, get out."

"Mayor Geng…."

"I need to rest now. Close the door when you leave."

Indeed, Dong Xuebing cannot convince Geng Yuehua when she awakes and is alert.

The earthquake is happening in less than twenty days, and Geng Yuehua wants to stop Dong Xuebing's Earthquake prevention and mitigation awareness campaign. This made him mad. "Yuehua, you should know or have heard about me. I don't like to do unnecessary stuff, and I am not doing this for my gain. I am doing it for our Subdistrict's residents. I want them to be educated on what to do when an earthquake happens."

"Then you have achieved it now."

"This is not enough. I still need disaster relief supplies."

Geng Yuehua's face changed. "I had tolerated you when you send me earthquake-related information every day and can't be bothered with you. Do you think I don't know what you have done in the past week? I closed one eye and helped you block off all complaints to let you finish your campaign. But now, you are asking for relief supplies?! There's a limit to my patience!"

Dong Xuebing understood how Geng Yuehua thinks, but he can't explain how he knows the earthquake is coming.

Geng Yuehua took a deep breath to calm herself and read the papers. "I don't want to waste my time talking to you. Get out!"

"Alright… alright…." Dong Xuebing did not argue with her. "Let's not talk about this now."

Geng Yuehua did not reply.

"You are my Leader, and I will listen to whatever you say."

Geng Yuehua is still angry and ignores him.

Dong Xuebing looks at the time. It's past midnight. Since talking to her did not work, he will try something else. He poured a glass of water and held it by her mouth. "Have some water."

"I am not thirsty." Geng Yuehua coldly replies.

Dong Xuebing put down the glass and reached over to hug her waist.

Geng Yuehua's eyes immediately change. "What is the meaning of this?!"

"Let's talk about something else." Dong Xuebing cleared his throat. "Can I sleep over at your place tonight?"

Geng Yuehua replied. "I don't like sleeping with other people."

"Huh? It's not like we have not slept together."

"I dare you to say that again!"

"Ah…. Fine… fine…. We have not slept together before."

Dong Xuebing has a headache. It's so hard to please Geng Yuehua.

Since coaxing and persuading cannot work, he will use force.

Dong Xuebing suddenly stands up and carries Geng Yuehua up like a princess.

Geng Yuehua's face changed. "Put me down!"

Dong Xuebing ignored. "It's quite late now. Let's sleep."

"I asked you to put me down." Geng Yuehua stares at Dong Xuebing coldly. "I don't want to repeat."

Dong Xuebing had wanted to use force, but Geng Yuehua's stare sent chills down his back. He gave in and put her down on the sofa gently.

The air becomes tense.

Geng Yuehua continues reading her newspaper, and Dong Xuebing looks at the ceiling.

Geng Yuehua threw the newspaper on the floor a few minutes later and entered the bathroom. She slammed the door hard.

Water sounds can be heard from the bathroom. She seems to be taking a shower.

Dong Xuebing was surprised and felt he might still have a chance.

Geng Yuehua does things fast, and it took around four minutes to finish her shower. The bathroom door opened, and she came out wearing the same clothes. But she had taken off her bra, as Dong Xuebing could see two pinkish dots on her chest. The scent of the shampoo and shower gel fills the room.

Dong Xuebing stood up and was about to say something. But Geng Yuehua walked into her bedroom without looking at him.

Geng Yuehua did not close the bedroom door and left it half-opened.

Dong Xuebing hesitated for a second and entered the room.

Geng Yuehua is sitting on her bed with a book. She had not changed out of her clothes.

"Yuehua…." Dong Xuebing called.

Geng Yuehua continues to ignore him.

Dong Xuebing could guess it, and he quickly took off his clothes and threw them over the chair.

Geng Yuehua did not move or look at Dong Xuebing when he took off his clothes.

Dong Xuebing climbed onto the bed and got under the covers. The pillow, blanket, and sheet have her scent. It smells good. He knows Geng Yuehua appears firm, but she is softhearted inside. He did not say anything, moved closer to her, and hugged her around her waist. He pulled her to the center of the bed and covered themselves with the blanket.

Geng Yuehua's cold voice sounded from under the blanket. "Switch off the lights."

Dong Xuebing's second persuasion method is to conquer Geng Yuehua. This is the only way for her to listen to him. Yes… if he cannot conquer her mentally, he will do it physically!

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Chapter 708: Do it

Midnight.

Geng Yuehua's apartment.

The moon's faint rays shine into the dark bedroom.

"Yuehua, what time do you need to wake up tomorrow?"

"7 am."

"I will set the alarm."

"No need."

"Let's set the alarm in case we wake up late."

This is not Dong Xuebing's apartment, and he doesn't have any relatives staying here. But Geng Yuehua's parents and brother are living here. What if they come over to wake her up for breakfast? They have the keys to this apartment, and they will kill him if they find him in bed with her. Geng Yuehua's parents, especially Geng Xinke, have grudges with him. It's better to be safe.

Suddenly, Geng Yuehua coughed. "Cough… cough…."

"What's wrong?" Dong Xuebing asked. "Did you catch a cold?"

Geng Yuehua did not reply and reached over to the bedside drawer to get medicine.

Dong Xuebing said. "You are coughing the last time I see you. Why do you keep coughing? You should eat Liquorice Root Slices. It's good for treating cough." He switched on the lights.

"Switch it off."

"How are you going to eat medicine in the dark?"

"I asked you to switch it off!"

"Fine… fine… fine…. I will switch it off."

After taking medicine, Geng Yuehua feels better, and she lays on the bed without moving.

Dong Xuebing looks at Geng Yuehua and knows it's time to do it. He knows she will not say anything, which is her hint for him to start. He reached over under the blanket and slipped his hand through the opening between her blouse's buttons. After her shower, she removed her bra, and he squeezed her soft mounds. He moved closer and kissed her ear down to her lips.

Geng Yuehua closed her eyes and lay there, not moving. Her breathing had become slightly faster. Her body is too alluring for Dong Xuebing, and he quickly pressed his body against her.

But Dong Xuebing did not forget his mission today. This is not only to satisfy himself. It is to conquer Geng Yuehua's body and make her listen to him about Earthquake Prevention and Mitigation measures. He cannot rush and got to tease her slowly. He slowly unbuttons her and throws her blouse off the bed.

After that, it's her pants.

Dong Xuebing struggled a bit to remove Geng Yuehua's belt and pants. Her sexy butt is exposed after he pulls her pants off. She did not wear her underwear too. Her tight pants had left some markings on her fair butt.

Dong Xuebing threw the pants off the bed from under the blanket, and he started stroking her long legs.

Geng Yuehua did not make any noise as Dong Xuebing caressed her legs and back.

Dong Xuebing looks up. "Why are you not wearing underwear?"

"I don't feel like it."

"Are you still angry with me for picking that green see-through underwear for you?"

"I said I don't feel like wearing today."

"I was not joking with you that day. Your underwear is so sexy."

"What has my underwear got to do with you? Who are you to judge it?"

"Fine… fine… I will keep quiet. Why are you so anxious?"

Dong Xuebing could not communicate with Geng Yuehua. She doesn't have any sense of humor and spoils the mood. Fine. I will focus on my mission. He kissed all over her body and stretched his waist and legs.

Alright.

Everything is ready.

Dong Xuebing took out the condoms from his pants and braced himself. He has never been so serious about lovemaking. It is different this time. He is doing it for the thousands of lives in Nan Shan District. If he cannot conquer her, he cannot continue his earthquake preventive and mitigation work, and many people will die.

"I am going in." Dong Xuebing said.

Geng Yuehua opened her eyes and asked coldly. "Are you wearing it?"

Dong Xuebing answered. "Of course. I am going to start now."

Geng Yuehua closed her eyes again. "Do you have brains? You don't need to report everything to me."

Hmph! Can't you speak nicely to me? I will teach you a lesson now!

Dong Xuebing spreads her legs forcefully and pushes himself hard into her.

Dong Xuebing's thinking is simple. He will conquer Geng Yuehua even if he tires himself. If one time is not enough, he will do it repeatedly. He will not give her time to rest and must make her agree to his request while in a daze. But after fifty minutes, he realized he had overestimated himself and underestimated her. He had pushed himself to his limits by going two rounds, and she was still lying there like a rock. No matter how hard he thrusts, she remained unfazed other than a bit of panting.

Dong Xuebing had used all his strength, but his efforts are like a small pebble dropping into the sea.

This made Dong Xuebing want to bang his head against the wall. He did not expect Geng Yuehua to be so tolerant. His back is breaking, and he feels pain in his kidneys, yet she doesn't seem to be in the mood.

This is humiliating.

Dong Xuebing cannot stand humiliation, but it was not his fault. He had tried his best.

Lasting thirty minutes is considered average. Forty minutes is considered not bad, and Dong Xuebing's best effort is two rounds in fifty minutes. Although it is not outstanding, it is considered quite good. However, this is a joke when compared to Geng Yuehua. Dong Xuebing thought to himself. How am I going to satisfy you? Two hours? Even if I take performance enhancement drugs, I will not last two hours. Are you trying to kill me? He looks at her straight face, and he felt two hours might not even satisfy her.

This is killing me."

Conquer her in bed?! It's more like she is conquering me.

Dong Xuebing pants as he lays on Geng Yuehua. He is exhausted, hoping she is only putting on a front. She might be satisfied, but she is not showing it. "The earthquake prevention and mitigation…."

Geng Yuehua's breathing becomes normal after a while. Her face changed when she heard that. "Why are you bringing it up again?"

Dong Xuebing slapped his forehead. Damn! My plan failed.

Geng Yuehua stares at Dong Xuebing. "Are you done?"

Are you trying to spite me? Dong Xuebing got mad.

"I am asking you a question." Geng Yuehua said. "Are you done?!"

Dong Xuebing replied stubbornly. "Not yet. Let me catch my breath first and stop rushing me."

Geng Yuehua had reached out for the tissue papers but pulled back her hand after hearing it. She lay on the bed and waited for Dong Xuebing to continue.

You are doing this on purpose!

Do you think I still have the strength to go another round?

Actually, Dong Xuebing is not mad with Geng Yuehua. He is angry with his performance. He is only average in bed. If he can be half as good as his fighting skills, he will be laughing in his dreams. But the reality is cruel. He can train to fight and shoot, but he doesn't know how to train this.

Dong Xuebing is feeling complicated when he sees Geng Yuehua waiting for him.

Mayor Geng had dressed sexily to look for Dong Xuebing last month. It means his efforts during the first time were not in vain, or she would not look for him the second time. This is the third time she allows him to do it with her. This means he can satisfy part of her desires, but her desires are much more significant.

What should I do?

Sleep? This means I admitted defeat.

Dong Xuebing felt he would be too ashamed to face Geng Yuehua if he admitted defeat.

No! I must think of a solution!

Later, Geng Yuehua opens her eyes and looks at Dong Xuebing. She reached over to get the tissue papers. "I am also tired. Sleep." Maybe she sensed he could not carry on and said this to not let him feel bad.

Dong Xuebing got more frustrated. Suddenly, he got an idea.

That's right. I still have REVERSE! Why did I forget about it?!

Dong Xuebing immediately focuses on his body, especially his aching back.

He mumbled under his breath. "REVERSE, one second!"

Dong Xuebing felt some numbness, and all his fatigue is gone. His body condition had returned to yesterday's condition!

Licorice

https/en./wiki/Liquorice

Chapter 709: More than three hours

Midnight 1 am.

A mosquito is buzzing around the room.

The bed sheets and blankets emit a musky smell.

Geng Yuehua wiped herself clean and threw the tissue paper ball aside before going under the blanket to sleep.

Dong Xuebing, who was looking at her, suddenly changed. "Yuehua, why are you going to sleep?"

Geng Yuehua frowned and looked at him. "I did not ask you to stay. You can leave if you want."

"Who says I am leaving? We are not done yet. Get up." Dong Xuebing's body condition is in top form now. "Let's go for a few more rounds."

Geng Yuehua opens her eyes and looks at him again. "I am tired."

"I am not. Hurry up. I know you still have energy."

"You don't need to force yourself. It's enough. Sleep."

"Hmph…. I am not forcing myself. I am serious, and I was taking a breather."

Geng Yuehua ignored him and covered herself with the damp blanket. She turns with her back facing Dong Xuebing and closes her eyes.

Dong Xuebing thought to himself. You don't believe me?! I used REVERSE on myself, and my body's condition returned yesterday. This means his current body has not touched Geng Yuehua for more than a month. He is at his full power and bursting with energy. He got under the blanket and flipped her body before spreading her legs again. She looked at him and did not say anything. She lies on her back and lets him do her.

Dong Xuebing sneered in his heart and continued what he had been doing for the past fifty minutes.

Twenty minutes passed….

Forty minutes passed….

Geng Yuehua's eyes finally changed. She looks at Dong Xuebing with a weird gaze and starts panting louder.

Dong Xuebing saw it and used all his strength.

After a while, Geng Yuehua's body trembles. She bit her lower lips and closed her eyes. Her face is covered with sweat.

Dong Xuebing had also reached his climax. He pants and looks at Geng Yuehua. He almost cursed out when she saw her resting as if nothing had happened. Even Aunt Xuan, who has a high sex drive, is not as calm as you.

Damn! I don't believe I cannot conquer you.

Dong Xuebing is determined and uses REVERSE on himself again.

REVERSE one second.

The body aches are gone, and his body condition recovered.

Limitless fighting power. Dong Xuebing felt great, and he did not let Geng Yuehua rest anymore. He is afraid he has to start all over again once she is rested. He pounced on her body and started moving. Geng Yuehua was surprised and wanted to say something. But Dong Xuebing's hard thrusts made her gasp and forget what she wanted to say.

The bed is creaking nonstop.

The weird smell in the room is getting stronger. No words are spoken, and the only sounds are panting.

Half an hour….

One hour….

One and a half hours….

Dong Xuebing is going all out. His body did not stop moving, and he kept using REVERSE to recover his stamina.

It's already after 3 am.

Dong Xuebing had been making love with Geng Yuehua for more than three hours.

Dong Xuebing got shocked when he saw the time. Damn! Three hours…. He doesn't even dare to think about it in the past. He would be overjoyed if he could last one and a half hours. Three hours of continuous lovemaking will shock anyone who hears about it.

Dong Xuebing felt this is an achievement.

Geng Yuehua seems she could not stand it anymore. Her eyes were closed, and she was not making any noise other than some soft panting. But after two hours, her face and body are covered with sweat. Her long hair kept falling on her face due to the momentum, and she got to sweep her long fringe aside. She also pursed her lips to stop herself from making any sounds. After three hours, her body was slumped on the bed and gasped for air. Sweat is dripping off her body, and her eyes have lost focus. Her right hand is in her hair, grabbing it tightly.

Geng Yuehua could not stand it anymore. She had passed her limits.

More than a dozen condoms were used, lasting for three hours. Who can stand it?

Dong Xuebing is confident, and he lowers his head to Geng Yuehua's ears. He said while thrusting. "Can you support our Subdistrict Office on our Earthquake prevention and mitigation work? We need around two million of funds and the District Government's support."

Geng Yuehua did not seem to have heard him. Her body is arched up, gasping for air.

"I am asking you a question…. Do you agree?" Dong Xuebing moves faster.

Geng Yuehua could not hold back anymore and let out a loud moan. Her body stiffens for a few seconds, and she slumps onto the bed, but her legs are still shaking.

"Yes or no?" Dong Xuebing continues. "Give me an answer."

Geng Yuehua's legs are trembling as she grabs her hair and moans. She pants and replies softly. "Yes…. Yes…. Yes…."

"Promise?"

"Yes…."

"Alright. That's what I wanted to hear."

Dong Xuebing is overjoyed and starts the final session of the night.

A few minutes later, Dong Xuebing collapsed on the bed to rest. He looked at Geng Yuehua and saw her still panting. She could not lift a finger, and her body will jolt every few seconds.

Dong Xuebing is afraid Geng Yuehua might be dehydrated and quickly goes out to get a cup of water for her.

Geng Yuehua finished the water and lay back on the bed. She is still trying to catch her breath and feel the effects as she grabs her head.

Dong Xuebing got under the blanket and hugged her. "You must be tired. Let's sleep."

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Chapter 710: Conquered

Next day.

The sun is up, and some birds are chirping outside the windows.

Beep… beep… beep…. The mobile phone alarm sounded in the room.

Dong Xuebing woke up and switched it off. It's 7 am, and he looks at Geng Yuehua, sleeping soundly. The loud alarm could not even wake her. This shows how tired she was from last night. Three hours and more than a dozen rounds…. It's scary when Dong Xuebing thinks about it. While he felt sorry for her, he also has a sense of achievement. The longest he could last in bed was around forty minutes in the past.

"Yuehua…. Yuehua…."

"Huh?"

"Wake up. It's 7 am."

"Hmmm…."

"Didn't you say you got to wake up at 7 am?"

"Hmmm…."

Geng Yuehua could not open her eyes, and 'hmmm' is her only reply. Dong Xuebing wonders if she is talking in her sleep.

Dong Xuebing knows Geng Yuehua was exhausted last night and decided to let her rest for a while. He kissed her forehead and pulled up the blanket for her. He wrapped his arms around her waist and snuggled with her. He felt great as the unapproachable District Mayor in Nan Shan District slept soundly in his arms.

About twenty minutes later.

Geng Yuehua's body moved, and she slowly opened her eyes.

"Are you awake?" Dong Xuebing asked with a smile.

"What time is it?"

"It's 7.20 am. Are you getting up?"

Geng Yuehua nodded and pushed Dong Xuebing's arms. She tried to get off the bed, but she gasped when she moved her legs. She frowned and reached under the blanket to feel her private parts and thighs.

Dong Xuebing asked. "What happened?"

Geng Yuehua's face sunk. "My legs have no strength, and it hurts."

"Huh?" Dong Xuebing quickly apologized. "I'm sorry for overdoing it last night. Let me help you up."

Dong Xuebing helps Geng Yuehua to sit and stand. But her legs are shaking like jelly. She raffled her hair and exhaled loudly before lying down on the bed again. "Pass me my phone."

"Ok." Dong Xuebing immediately gets her phone.

Geng Yuehua covered her naked body with the blanket and dialed a number.

Dong Xuebing listened beside Geng Yuehua. "Xiao Ma, I…. I am not feeling well and will be taking a break this morning."

Secretary Ma did not ask other questions. "Alright."

Geng Yuehua said. "Handle any issues by yourself, and call me if you can't decide. Move my meetings to this afternoon. That's all."

"Yes. Please take care of yourself."

"Ok. Bye."

Dong Xuebing is beside Geng Yuehua and can hear Ma Jian's voice.

After hanging up, Geng Yuehua gave Dong Xuebing a stare. "What are you doing?"

"Nothing…." Dong Xuebing replied. "I did not hear anything."

Geng Yuehua ignored him and threw her phone aside before closing her eyes again.

Dong Xuebing said gently. "Rest a while more if you are tired. You should take the day off and not return to work in the afternoon. It's my fault. I shouldn't have done that last night." He saw her keeping quiet and continued. "Oh, don't forget the promise you made last night. Can you do it today? You cannot go back on your words." He reminded Geng Yuehua that she did not mention it to Ma Jian in the phone call earlier.

Geng Yuehua frowned. "What did I say?"

Dong Xuebing smacked her lips. "You promised to give our Subdistrict Office two million and support our earthquake prevention and mitigation efforts."

"I don't remember promising you anything." Geng Yuehua denied and looked at Dong Xuebing coldly.

"Damn!" Dong Xuebing gave Geng Yuehua a stare. "You cannot do this to me. We made a deal, and how can you go back on your words? You even said yes three times!"

Geng Yuehua coldly replied. "I did not say that."

"Yuehua, you are too much."

"You took advantage of me when I was at my weakest."

"See…. You remember you had said that. I don't care. Sigh…. I had no choice but to do this. If you are mad with me, you can beat me up. But you must give us the fund and support us with Government policies." Geng Yuehua's reply confirmed Dong Xuebing had satisfied her over her limits last night.

Geng Yuehua did not give in. "Don't even think about it."

"You promised."

"I said I did not promise anything."

"Fine…. Continue to feign ignorance."

"You are the one who is being a hooligan."

Dong Xuebing is speechless by Geng Yuehua's action. She had gone back on her words and wasted his efforts last night. But he will not give up. He pulled off the blanket, exposing her naked body.

"What are you doing?" Geng Yuehua's face changed.

"I will not let you off if you don't keep to your words."

Geng Yuehua looks at him coldly. "Go ahead and try it."

Dong Xuebing takes this as a challenge. He turns over and presses against Geng Yuehua. He looks at her in her eyes. "I am going to try it now."

Geng Yuehua looks at him emotionlessly. "Go ahead."

Dong Xuebing got mad and took out the last box of condoms. He puts on one and spreads her legs forcefully.

"Hiss…." Geng Yuehua drew a cold breath, and her body stiffened.

At first, At first, Dong Xuebing tried to get back at Geng Yuehua All he can think of is her sexy body.

"Draw the curtains."

"No!"

"I want you to draw the curtains!"

"No!"

Geng Yuehua was about to continue to scold Dong Xuebing when she felt a sudden sensation hitting her. Her legs start to tremble uncontrollably. Her mouth opened slightly, and tears welled up in her eyes. Sweat starts to form on her forehead and body. After a while, she slumped on the bed.

It's less than ten minutes.

Dong Xuebing knew this was the side-effect of last night. She only rested for four hours, and her body still has not recovered.

Dong Xuebing looked at her and kissed her. "You are so beautiful."

Geng Yuehua is still panting and cannot say anything.

This is the first time Dong Xuebing makes love with Geng Yuehua in broad daylight. The room is bright, and he can see all her expressions and body. It excites him, and it felt much better than doing it at night.

Geng Yuehua's body is soft, smooth, and curvy. No words can describe Dong Xuebing's feelings now.

"You are the one who asked me to go ahead." Dong Xuebing said. "Let's switch positions. I am tired of the same position."

Both Geng Yuehua's hands are grabbing her hair, and she does not reply.

Dong Xuebing let her rest for a while and continued moving.

Geng Yuehua's body tightens, and she starts to breathe heavily again.

Dong Xuebing said. "Turn over with your knees, tuck in, and raise your butt."

Dong Xuebing was trying his luck. To his surprise, Geng Yuehua turned over, grabbed the bed headboard with both hands, and raised her butt towards him.

Dong Xuebing was surprised to see Geng Yuehua so cooperative and not waste time. He grabbed her waist and started pounding her from behind.

Twenty minutes later.

Dong Xuebing hugged Geng Yuehua under the blanket. They are still panting and feeling excited. He had never dreamed that she would listen to him and get into that position. Although she was not in the correct state of mind, this was a breakthrough. No one would believe this woman is the unapproachable District Mayor.

Dong Xuebing whispered into her ears. "Can you agree to the funding?"

Geng Yuehua lay there panting. "Give me my phone."

"Here!" Dong Xuebing got the phone and passed it to her.

Geng Yuehua closed her eyes and sighed before making a call. "Hello, give Finance Department a call and ask them to give Guang Ming Subdistrict Office 1.5 million before tomorrow."

Ma Jian was startled. "Guang Ming Subdistrict Office?!"

"Just do what I say."

"Alright. I will do it now."

Dong Xuebing rolled his eyes after she hung up. "Didn't we agree on two million?"

"Bring me a glass of water." Geng Yuehua threw her phone aside and massaged her head with her eyes closed. She looks exhausted. "1.5 million. Take it or leave it."

Fine. 1.5 million is better than nothing.

Dong Xuebing crawled out of bed to get water for her. "Thank you. Here."

Dong Xuebing smiled as he completed this task. It was not easy, but he finally conquered Mayor Geng.

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Chapter 711: Earthquake response exercise

Morning.

The sun is up.

Dong Xuebing, who was in Geng Yuehua's room, looked at the time and felt it was time to get up. He walked over to her side of the bed and pulled up the blanket. Her sweat had dried up, and she looked exhausted.

"Carry on sleeping. I am leaving now." Dong Xuebing said.

Geng Yuehua frowned and looked at him.

Dong Xuebing explains. "It's late, and your parents might come over to wake you. I…."

Geng Yuehua reached out to grab her phone and pressed a quick dial button. "Mum, it's me. Have breakfast first and don't wait for me. Bye." She threw her phone aside.

Dong Xuebing is speechless. "Then I will stay awhile more. Have some rest first."

Geng Yuehua said sternly. "Make breakfast for me before you go."

Dong Xuebing felt she is not treating him as an outsider now. "Ok. What do you want to eat?"

"Porridge and sunny-side up." Geng Yuehua did not say anything this time.

"Huh? Ok. Go back to sleep first. I will take a shower and prepare breakfast."

"Ok." Geng Yuehua turns over and sleeps.

The blanket is thinner than a towel, showing Geng Yuehua's curves. She is like a beautiful sculpture. Dong Xuebing takes a few glances before leaving for the bathroom.

Bathroom.

Dong Xuebing called the Subdistrict Office's Work Party Office. "Hello, I am Dong Xuebing. Director Zhou, I will be late today, and call me if there are any urgent matters."

Zhou Yanru smiles. "Alright. I know."

"Are there any issues with the Earthquake prevention and mitigation awareness campaign?"

"It's still ongoing, but we are running out of funds. You should know about our Subdistrict's finances. It's…."

"Don't worry about this." Dong Xuebing said. "I had reported to the District Government, and they will be giving us 1.5 million. It should be in before tomorrow. You will take charge of this fund. Other than the awareness campaign, get the disaster relief supplies like tents, biscuits, medicine, etc., like what we discussed. I will hold an earthquake response exercise in a few days and need these supplies. But many people had been complaining to the District Government about us, and this must be kept secret. Do you get what I mean?"

The District Government had issued funds?!

Zhou Yanru felt the sun had risen from the west.

The District Government had been neglecting Guang Ming Subdistrict for the past weeks. Why are they giving 1.5 million to them?

Zhou Yanru immediately reply. "I understand. Don't worry about it."

"Haha…. Ok. Thank you."

Dong Xuebing starts his shower after hanging up. He was covered in sweat from yesterday and this morning's activities.

Twenty minutes later.

Dong Xuebing turns off the water after washing up.

Suddenly, someone knocks loudly outside.

"Yuehua?" Dong Xuebing asked.

"Are you done?" Geng Yuehua shouted.

"I'm almost done. What is it?"

"I want to take a shower if you are done."

"Ok. I am coming out now. Oh, can I use your towel? There's only one towel inside."

Geng Yuehua did not reply.

"Yuehua?" Dong Xuebing shouted. "Can you reply to me?"

"It's up to you."

"I am going to use it now."

"I said it's up to you. Why are you so noisy?"

"Alright… alright." Dong Xuebing wonders why can't Geng Yuehua speak to him nicely?

Dong Xuebing dried himself with Geng Yuehua's towel and got dressed. He picks up her toothbrush and starts brushing his teeth while opening the door. "Here…. I'm done. You can come in now."

Geng Yuehua stares at the toothbrush in Dong Xuebing's mouth.

Dong Xuebing feigned ignorance. "Huh? What is it?"

Geng Yuehua looks at him for a few seconds before limping into the bathroom.

Dong Xuebing quickly spit out the foam. "Are your legs fine?"

Geng Yuehua ignored Dong Xuebing and stood under the shower in her bathrobe, looking at him.

"I can massage your legs for you later. Alright. Go and shower now. I will prepare breakfast." Dong Xuebing said and left the bathroom.

Dong Xuebing had gotten used to Geng Yuehua's personality.

After a while, Dong Xuebing finished cooking the porridge and eggs for Geng Yuehua.

"Try if it suits your taste." Dong Xuebing said.

Geng Yuehua starts eating without saying a word.

Dong Xuebing smiles. "Sunnyside up eggs is my best dish. If you like it, I will cook it for you every day when you are here."

Geng Yuehua coldly says. "Switch on the TV."

"Which channel?"

"News."

Dong Xuebing knew Geng Yuehua couldn't walk properly now because of him, and he is willing to do all these for her. "Is the volume loud enough?"

"Louder."

"Ok."

Geng Yuehua ate her breakfast while watching the news.

Dong Xuebing looked at Geng Yuehua and said. "Yuehua, our Subdistrict Office is holding an earthquake response exercise in a few days. This is to prepare the residents in the event of a disaster. Can the District Government support us?"

Geng Yuehua frowned. "Don't be too much."

"We had agreed that you would support us yesterday." Dong Xuebing felt that's a breakthrough in their relationship. "Can you just support us this time? I promise I will be there if you need my help in the future."

Geng Yuehua did not reply.

"Yuehua…."

"Mayor Geng…."

"Sister Geng…."

"Please…."

Geng Yuehua replied without looking at him. "I will consider."

Consider means she might agree.

Dong Xuebing is satisfied with this answer and starts eating breakfast with her. Earthquake response exercise is an essential part of his plan. He needs to relocate some residents to old and risky buildings before the earthquake.

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Chapter 712: Geng Xinke and Lin Pingping?

Afternoon.

Dong Xuebing left Geng Yuehua's house and drove to work. The earthquake is happening in less than twenty days, and everything is going according to plan. This made him relieved. However, he knows it is too early to be happy now. There's still a series of problems to overcome. Earthquake response exercise is a critical part of his plan.

Dong Xuebing had read that future newspaper more than a dozen times. He had memorized every residential, commercial building that had collapsed. There's not enough time to strengthen these building structures, and he needs an excuse to relocate those residents. That's why the Earthquake response exercise comes in as a reason for Dong Xuebing to convince them to move.

Exercise….

How will he convince the District Government to allow him to hold such a major exercise? Furthermore, he needs to think about how he will implement it.

Dong Xuebing reached the Subdistrict Office while thinking about it. It is lunchtime now, and many staffs are entering the cafeteria.

Suddenly, a car entered the compound, and someone called him. "Chief Dong."

Dong Xuebing immediately knows it is someone from Yan Tai County. Before becoming Guang Ming Subdistrict Office Director, he was the Public Security Deputy Chief and the Investment Promotion Agency Chief. All his former colleagues still call him Chief Dong. He turned around and saw the current Yan Tai County Investment Promotion Agency Chief, Sun Shuli. The one driving is the Business Section One Chief, Lin Pingping.

"Old Sun, Xiao Lin!" Dong Xuebing laughed and went over to welcome them. "Why are you all here?"

Sun Shuli laughed. "We have a meeting at the District Investment Promotion Agency this afternoon, and we are early. So, we decided to drop by to visit our old leader."

Geng Xinke paused for a few seconds. "I had considered about it before, but after we… graduated, I did not meet the right person. What about you?"

"I am busy with work."

"If I know you are working in Yan Tai County, which is so near, I would…."

"Stop." Lin Pingping held her head and sighed. "Stop saying these."

Translator's notes: Geng Xinke is the father of Lin Pingping's son?!

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Chapter 713: District Mayor's Brother in trouble

Next day.

Morning 10 am.

The Subdistrict Office's Secretary of the Disciplinary Work Committee Qu Yiqiang entered Dong Xuebing's office when he was making a list of earthquake relief supplies.

"Secretary Qu?" Dong Xuebing looked up. "What's the rush?"

"Something happened." Qu Yiqiang is looking terrible as he passed a DVD to Dong Xuebing.

"What is this?" Dong Xuebing frowned.

"Our Disciplinary Work Committee received it this morning. It's a video."

"Who sent it?"

"It's an anonymous person who sent it. We don't know the sender."

Dong Xuebing looks at the disc. He put it into his PC's DVD drive and played the video. He was shocked. It is taken with a hidden camera in a hotel room, and a couple is kissing on the bed. They slowly stripped and got under the blanket. The video quality is good, and the faces of the couple can be seen clearly. The guy is Geng Xinke, and the woman is Lin Pingping.

Dong Xuebing knew there was something between them.

This video should have been recorded last night.

The video is more than half an hour, but Dong Xuebing did not continue to watch. He took out the DVD and threw it on his desk. "Who else knows about this?"

Qu Yiqiang replied. "This DVD had gone through two staff members, but I am the only person who watched it."

Dong Xuebing nodded. "Keep this matter between the both of us. I don't want anyone else to know about this."

"I understand." Qu Yiqiang hesitated for a few seconds and asked. "This matter is quite serious and that woman…."

"I know this woman. She is working in Yan Tai County Government and is single." Dong Xuebing is mad, and he hits his desk. "Secretary Geng is also single. There's nothing wrong with both single adults being together. Why did the sender send this to us? I think the sender has other motives in mind. Old Qu, don't report this to the higher-ups."

A single female government staff?

That means there is no issue.

Qu Yiqiang is relieved after hearing this. He thought Geng Xinke was having an affair with some married woman when he saw the video. Hmmm…. He is also impressed with the way Dong Xuebing handles this matter. Director Dong might be rash and impulsive, but he sticks to the rules. Other people, who are on bad terms with Geng Xinke, would use this DVD to bring him down.

There's nothing wrong with a single man and a single woman dating, but this video can still slightly affect Geng Xinke and that woman. Both their faces are shown in the video, and this will affect their career progression.

Qu Yiqiang and Dong Xuebing know the impact of this matter is not that serious as both are still single.

After Qu Yiqiang left, Dong Xuebing paced around his office, thinking about this matter. Is someone trying to bring down Geng Xinke, or is he targeting Geng Yuehua? If it is District Mayor Geng's rivals, they should not use such immature tactics. It's more likely to be Geng Xinke's enemies.

Dong Xuebing thought for a while and left with the DVD.

District Government Office Building.

Dong Xuebing did not go through Geng Yuehua's secretary and went straight to her office.

"Come in." Geng Yuehua said.

Dong Xuebing entered the office. "Mayor Geng, there's something urgent." Geng Yuehua puts down her pen and looks at him. "What?"

Dong Xuebing closed the door and passed the DVD to Geng Yuehua. "Watch this first."

Geng Yuehua frowned and played the DVD on her PC. Her face changed immediately when she saw the video. "Where did you get it?"

Dong Xuebing replied. "This is sent to our Subdistrict's Disciplinary Work Committee this morning by an anonymous sender."

"Who else knows about this?"

"It's only my Subdistrict's Disciplinary Work Committee Secretary, Qu Yiqiang, and me. Old Qu is on my side, and I had asked him to keep this to himself. This DVD is left with me, and we are not going to report this to the higher-ups." Geng Yuehua hears this and nods.

"The woman in the video is my former subordinate, Lin Pingping. She is single and is Xinke's university classmate. They met at the Subdistrict Office yesterday afternoon, and this should have been recorded last night. How are you going to handle this?" Dong Xuebing looks at Geng Yuehua. "No one else in Guang Ming Subdistrict Office will know about this, but I am afraid the sender will not give up and send it to other places. If this blows up, your brother will be in trouble."

"Lin Pingping?" Geng Yuehua mumbled this name.

"What's wrong?" Dong Xuebing asked. "Do you know her?"

"I have not met her before, but I heard Xinke mentioning her name when he was in university. They were dating, but they broke up after graduation.

Dong Xuebing nodded.

Geng Yuehua took out her phone and called her brother. "Hello, where are you now?"

"Sis?" Geng Xinke is driving. "I am outside. What is it?"

Geng Yuehua asked coldly. "Are you still with Lin Pingping?"

Geng Xinke was shocked, and he turned to Lin Pingping, who was in the front passenger seat. "Sis, how do you know about Pingping?"

Lin Pingping looked at Geng Xinke, confused.

Geng Yuehua raised her voice. "You are getting out of hand. Come to my office immediately!"

"Sis, what happened?" Geng Xinke wants to know what happened.

"What happened? Someone had secretly recorded you and Lin Pingping in a hotel room last night, and the DVD is with me."

"What?!" Geng Xinke is shocked. "I…."

Geng Yuehua asked. "Which hotel is that?"

"I…." Geng Xinke's mind is in a mess.

"I am asking you which hotel did you two stay at last night!"

"It's Chenghai Hotel. You… leave this to me. I will handle it myself."

"What can you do? Come back now!" Geng Yuehua shouted and hung up the phone.

Lin Pingping looks at Geng Xinke. "What happened? Why is your sister asking about me suddenly?"

Geng Xinke did not say anything as he didn't know how to reply to her.

Lin Pingping pursed her lips. "Did your sister find out that we spent the night at the hotel? I had made it clear earlier. We were both drunk last night, and we will go separate ways from now on. What's wrong with you?"

"It's not about that." Geng Xinke replied. "We… have been secretly recorded in the room, and the video is made into a DVD. My sister has already seen it."

"Ah!" Lin Pingping's face turns red immediately.

Geng Xinke made a turn. "Don't go back to Yan Tai County today."

"What should I do now?" Lin Pingping is panicking. She is worried that this video will be posted on the internet.

"Let's find my sister first."

After Geng Yuehua graduated from university, she has been the pillar of her family. Her parents will let her decide on most matters. That's why Geng Xinke is anxious to seek his sister's advice when he is in trouble.

District Mayor Office.

Dong Xuebing asked. "Did your brother say which hotel is it?"

"Chenghai Hotel." Geng Yuehua had started searching on the internet.

Dong Xuebing looked over and saw the hotel's address. It is located in Dong Hai District and is some distance away from Nan Shan District. He knows Geng Xinke had to travel out of Nan Shan District is to avoid being spotted by people. But this made things complicated. Dong Hai District is not under Geng Yuehua's jurisdiction, and she can't do anything.

Geng Yuehua took a deep breath and picked up the phone on the desk.

Dong Xuebing quickly holds her hand. "How are you going to settle this?"

"I will try talking to them." Geng Yuehua replied calmly.

Dong Xuebing shook his head. "It's inconvenient for you to handle this. Leave this to me."

Geng Yuehua looks at him. "This is my family matter. I don't need your help."

Dong Xuebing smiles. "We are not strangers, and your brother is my brother. Is there a need to draw a line? It's more convenient for me to handle this. Leave this to me. I am an expert in handling such situations. You might not know, but I had handled lots of shocking cases when I was with Public Security. Anyway, just trust me. I have my ways to deal with them."

Geng Yuehua knew it was better for Dong Xuebing to handle this than her and did not say anything.

Dong Xuebing continues. "That's settled. This is not a minor problem nor a major issue. Just wait for my call. Oh, don't tell your brother that I am helping him settle this problem. You know we are not on good terms. I will bring back the original disc."

Geng Yuehua looked at Dong Xuebing and nodded. "Then watch out for your safety."

"I know. Nothing will happen."

"Call me immediately if anything happens."

"Alright. I am going now."

Geng Xinke is Dong Xuebing's half-brother-in-law, and Lin Pingping is his trusted subordinate. He will not let anything happen to them.

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Chapter 714: Clashed with Geng Xinke

Before noon.

Outside of the District Party Committee Building.

Geng Xinke and Lin Pingping drove into Geng Yuehua's workplace. They are both anxious and uneasy.

"I will look for my sister." Geng Xinke said. "Wait for me in the car."

Lin Pingping bit her lips and asked. "The DVD…. Was everything recorded?"

Geng Xinke nodded. "I think so. My sister said she had watched it. I think it might be someone targeting me."

"What should we do? If that person can send the DVD to your sister, he can send it to other places. I…."

"Piingping…. I'm sorry. I was too rash yesterday and dragged you into this."

"What's the point of saying this now?" Lin Pingping anxiously said. "Hurry up and think of a solution. Why will he send the DVD to your sister if he wants to frame you? He must have sent it to the Commission for Discipline Inspection, and they gave it to your sister. If that's the case…." She turns pale. "Many people would have seen what we did in the hotel."

Geng Xinke is stunned, and his face turns green. "Don't panic. Let me ask my sister first."

Dong Xuebing waved his hand and looked at them before turning to Lin Pingping. "I have some matters to attend. Bye."

Lin Pingping was still holding Geng Xinke back while apologizing. "Please be careful on the roads. We are sorry for what happened."

Everyone is puzzled by the God of Plague's reaction.

Dong Xuebing drove off, and he shook his head.

No matter how Geng Xinke treated him, he must still settle this problem.

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Chapter 715: The God of Plague is here

Noon.

Dong Hai District, South Road.

Dong Xuebing reached a bustling commercial area in Dong Hai District. He checked the address and continued driving forward. He seldom comes to Dong Hai District and is not familiar with the roads. He can only follow the GPS to find the hotel. He drove through two roads and an alley before reaching Cheng Hai Hotel. It is located away from the main road and looks ordinary.

This hotel is not as simple as it looks.

Who will know this ordinary hotel has secret cameras in their hotel rooms?

Cheng Hai Hotel. This is the place!

Dong Xuebing parked his car and looked at the hotel.

Dong Xuebing is mad after what Geng Xinke did. He is not mad with Geng Xinke, but the person behind all these. What's wrong with two single adults spending the night in a hotel? What's there got to do with you? You all had installed secret cameras and still sent the footage to our workplace! This is too arrogant and despicable!

You are doing this to Geng Xinke, which means you are going against Geng Yuehua!

Going against Geng Yuehua means you are going against me!

You had made Geng Yuehua's family accuse me of doing this! Dong Xuebing's eyes turn cold as he enters the hotel.

Dong Xuebing is furious.

He had wanted to investigate this hotel's backings before finding a way to settle this. But now, he doesn't care anymore. He wants to see how powerful this hotel is and what's the motive of doing this! You all are the ones who used despicable means and didn't blame me for what will happen!

We shall see who can be more despicable!

Dong Xuebing is treating this incident as his problem.

Dong Xuebing enters the hotel lobby.

Some people smoke on the sofa at the rest area and some check in at the counter.

Dong Xuebing looked around and saw a man in a suit with a walkie-talkie.

He should be the hotel's lobby manager from this man's dressing.

Dong Xuebing walked over, and the man was back facing him. He tapped on his shoulder. "I want to meet your boss."

The man turns. "What did you say?"

Dong Xuebing repeated. "I want to meet your boss!"

"Who are you?" That man frowned. "Do you have an appointment?"

Dong Xuebing stares at him coldly. "You don't need to know who I am, and I don't have an appointment. I am saying this for the last time. Ask your boss to come and see me! Do you understand?"

That man rudely replied. "Our boss is busy and can't meet you."

Dong Xuebing shrugged. "Fine. Then I will go and see him. Where is he?"

"Hmph! Are you here to create trouble?" That man narrowed his eyes.

Dong Xuebing laughed. "Haha…. You are right. I am here to create trouble."

That man's face changed, and he took out his walkie-talkie to call his men.

But Dong Xuebing grabbed that man's hair and pushed his face against the wall suddenly. "Where is the person in charge? Stop wasting my time!"

That man cursed and struggled. He did not expect someone to dare to create trouble at the hotel.

Dong Xuebing grabbed that man's arm and twisted it to his back.

That man shouted in pain. "Stop… stop…. My boss is on the sixth floor. The room at the end of the left corridor."

"Thanks." Dong Xuebing released that man and walked towards the elevator.

Many people had seen the commotion, and a few security guards rushed over.

"Stop!"

"How are you hit Manager Xu!"

"You are here to pick a fight!"

"Stop there!"

Dong Xuebing ignored those security guards and waited for the elevator.

There are three security guards, and they quickly reach Dong Xuebing.

Dong Xuebing is facing the elevator, and he suddenly tilts his head to dodge a punch from his back. He took a step to his side to avoid a baton and spread his arms to grab the wrists of two security guards. He swings his arms and moves his body forward. Bam! The two security guards lost their balance, and Dong Xuebing did not stop. He raised his elbow and knee and 'Bam! Bam!" The two security guards fell to the ground. He seems to have eyes on the back of his head and stomp his foot on the third security guard behind him. The third security guard stumbled, and Dong Xuebing pushed him towards the elevator doors. Bam! The security guards hit the doors and fell to the ground.

Ding!

The elevator doors opened.

Dong Xuebing walked past the fainted security guards into the elevator, lit a cigarette, and pressed level 6.

Ding! The elevator doors closed in front of everyone.

Dong Xuebing's fight with the security guards was only three seconds.

Within three seconds, three well-trained security guards were subdued quickly. Dong Xuebing's fighting skills had stunned everyone in the lobby.

Damn!

Who is that guy?!

Manager Xu is also stunned. He thought his security guards could stop that guy, but they were defeated within seconds. He quickly reports this incident with his walkie-talkie.

At the same time, the surveillance room saw what had happened.

Three men were subdued in an instant.

Who is this guy, and what is he here for?

Almost immediately, this incident was reported to the hotel's boss.

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Chapter 717: They have gone back?!

Cheng Hai Hotel.

General Manager Office.

Dong Xuebing looks at Chang Dajin's State Security identification card with a smile. Chang Dajin and that man in suit are frowning, as they know Chang Dajin had always kept this identification card on him all the time. When did this young man take it without his knowledge?

"Why is my identification card with you?!" Chang Dajin shouted.

"I picked it up from the floor." Dong Xuebing replied with a shrugged.

Chang Dajin reached out. "I am saying this once. Return it to me!"

Dong Xuebing laughed and looked at Chang Dajin. "I will also say this once. I am not interested in this useless identification card." He looked at the card's back and threw it on Chang Dajin's desk. "I finally know why you are not afraid. It is because of this identification card. But Chang Dajin, Mr. Chang…. You think too highly of yourself. Do you think you can do whatever you want with this thing? Stop kidding me."

Chang Dajin kept the identification card and looked at Dong Xuebing. "Hmph! Do you think this card is fake?"

Dong Xuebing replied. "It is not fake, but it is useless."

"Oh?" Chang Dajin laughed. "Then tell me about how it is useless."

Chang Dajin and the man in the suit were surprised when they heard Dong Xuebing's conversation over that phone call. They don't know who he called, but he is overbearing. Who do you think the State Security Bureau is? Do you think you can command them as if you own them?!

A few moments later, the hotel staff called Chang Dajin's office.

Chang Dajin answered and frowned. He heard something unbelievable. "What did you say?! The State Security Bureau Officers had gone back?!"

The man in a suit is shocked too.

Cold sweat starts to form on Chang Dajin's back. He immediately knows he has met someone he cannot afford to offend today.

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Chapter 715: The God of Plague is here

Noon.

Dong Hai District, South Road.

Dong Xuebing reached a bustling commercial area in Dong Hai District. He checked the address and continued driving forward. He seldom comes to Dong Hai District and is not familiar with the roads. He can only follow the GPS to find the hotel. He drove through two roads and an alley before reaching Cheng Hai Hotel. It is located away from the main road and looks ordinary.

This hotel is not as simple as it looks.

Who will know this ordinary hotel has secret cameras in their hotel rooms?

Cheng Hai Hotel. This is the place!

Dong Xuebing parked his car and looked at the hotel.

Dong Xuebing is mad after what Geng Xinke did. He is not mad with Geng Xinke, but the person behind all these. What's wrong with two single adults spending the night in a hotel? What's there got to do with you? You all had installed secret cameras and still sent the footage to our workplace! This is too arrogant and despicable!

You are doing this to Geng Xinke, which means you are going against Geng Yuehua!

Going against Geng Yuehua means you are going against me!

Manager Xu is also stunned. He thought his security guards could stop that guy, but they were defeated within seconds. He quickly reports this incident with his walkie-talkie.

At the same time, the surveillance room saw what had happened.

Three men were subdued in an instant.

Who is this guy, and what is he here for?

Almost immediately, this incident was reported to the hotel's boss.

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Chapter 718: Found out the real culprit!

Afternoon.

Dong Hai District, Cheng Hai Hotel.

A call made by Dong Xuebing caused the State Security Bureau Officers to return, and it shocked Chang Dajin and the suited man.

Who is this guy?

How did he send them away with a call?

What Dong Xuebing said is correct. Chang Dajin is only an associate with Fen Zhou City State Security Bureau. He is not registered in the system, and the reason he is selected is the nature of his business. He provided funding to the State Security Bureau and helped them gather information. In return, the State Security Bureau will assist him when necessary. This is why he cannot order or deploy State Security Bureau Officers. He had asked Director Wu for help, but Dong Xuebing sent him back with a phone call. This is too shocking, and he dares not belittle Dong Xuebing anymore.

The air in the office is tense.

Ring… ring… ring…. The phone rang again.

Chang Dajin took a deep breath and answered. "Hello?"

"It's me." State Security Bureau Director Wu said. "What exactly happens at your side?"

"I…." Chang Dajin stuttered. "I also don't know what happened. Director Wu, we…."

Director Wu coldly replied. "A higher-up called and asked us to retreat without asking anything. We have left and can't help you anymore. Settle your problem by yourself." He paused for a second. "Mr. Chang, we had worked together for two to three years, and I need to remind you something. Fen Zhou City is not as simple as it looks. There are people you can't afford to offend at every level. Do you understand?" Director Wu had found out something, or he will not say this.

A higher-up had called to stop the State Security Officers?!

Someone who can order Director Wu…. Chang Dajin felt a chill down his spine. "Yes."

"Good. You are smart, and you should get what I mean. Go and settle your problem properly."

"Sorry to bother you."

"Bye."

Dong Xuebing looks at Chang Dajin. "Can you give me an explanation about that DVD now?"

Chang Dajin took a deep breath to calm down and asked. "How do I address you?"

"My surname is Dong."

"Hurry, get my best tea leaves out and make a cup of tea for Mr. Dong." Chang Dajin instructed the man in a suit before looking at Dong Xuebing. "Mr. Dong, sorry for offending you earlier." He admitted defeat. This young man can order Director Wu. How can he offend him?

Dong Xuebing did not reply.

Chang Dajin continued. "I didn't know you are related to the State Security Bureau, and I cannot reveal these to you. But since you are not an outsider, there's nothing to hide. Many of our rooms are installed with hidden cameras. You should know this is for information gathering for our State Security Bureau. But I can guarantee that we will never save any useless recordings and use them for personal gains. That's why I don't know about the DVD you mentioned.

Dong Xuebing frowned. "Really?!"

Chang Dajin sincerely replied. "Think about this from my perspective. How can we hide from the State Security Bureau if we use those videos to threaten or blackmail others? They will never allow us to do such things. Furthermore, doing such deeds will not benefit our hotel. I am not an idiot, and I know some lines cannot be crossed."

Dong Xuebing doesn't believe him. "This is weird. This morning, I saw a DVD sent to the Commission for Discipline Inspection Secretary. It was recorded in your hotel last night around 9 pm. Hmph! If you all did not save the video, how is it made into a DVD and sent to the Commission for Discipline Inspection?!"

Chang Dajin's face changed when he heard 'Commission for Discipline Inspection. He immediately turns and looks at the man in a suit.

That man shook his head. "Boss, I don't know about this."

"Mr. Dong, are you sure it is our hotel?" Chang Dajin realized how serious this matter was. "I swear I don't know anything about this."

Dong Xuebing waved his hand. "Stop feigning ignorance. I don't care if you know or do not know about this. I am asking you, how are you going to settle this?"

Chang Dajin asked. "Can I ask which room was it?"

"I am not sure." Dong Xuebing looks at him. "The person who registered for the room is called Geng Xinke."

"Ok. We can find out with his name." Chang Dajin looks at his subordinate. "Go and investigate. Question everyone who is on duty last night!"

"Yes." The man walked out of the office quickly.

Chang Dajin is looking terrible. "I apologize to you if this is our fault. Don't worry! I will never allow such things to happen again, and I will get to the bottom of this!"

Sound sincere….

Dong Xuebing starts to suspect Chang Dajin might be unaware of this incident from his expression.

"Have you taken your lunch?" Chang Dajin asked.

"No." Dong Xuebing replied.

"Alright. I will get someone to send food here. We can eat while waiting. Mr. Dong, this lunch is a form of apology. Please accept it."

Dong Xuebing nodded as he was hungry. He had not taken his lunch as he rushed to Dong Hai District in a hurry.

Chang Dajin's men had started investigating and quickly found Geng Xinke's name in their records. Room 3203. After that, the suited man called the three staff on duty in the surveillance room last night back to the hotel for questioning. The video was sent out this morning as the footage is in a different format. This format needs to be converted before it can be burned into a DVD. This needed time, and the prime suspects were the night shift staff. Only a handful of people know this hotel is related to the State Security Bureau. They are all Chang Dajin's trusted men. The rest of the staff do not know about this.

Two hours passed.

Afternoon 3 pm.

Dong Xuebing and Chang Dajin smoke in the office when the suited man enters.

"How is it?" Chang Dajin looks at him.

The man replied. "It's confirmed. The culprit is Xu Zhong. He was on duty with another staff at the surveillance room last night."

Chang Dajin's face changed. "Why did he do this? He is quiet, hardworking, and honest. That was why we picked him to work in the surveillance room. Are you sure he did this?"

The man nodded. "I also did not expect this. I can tell from his eyes when I questioned the staff and checked with the other nightshift staff. The other staff admitted he slept in the surveillance room after midnight, and Xu Zhong was awake. After that, I sent someone to check Xu Zhong's room in the staff hostel and found these." He placed a bag on the table.

Chang Dajin opened the bag and gave it to Dong Xuebing.

Dong Xuebing saw there is a videotape and seven to eight DVDs. The DVDs are the same brand as the one sent to the Subdistrict Office."

"Let me use a PC." Dong Xuebing needs to confirm.

"Sure. Use mine." Chang Dajin steps aside.

Dong Xuebing played the DVD on the PC, and it was the video of Geng Xinke and Lin Pingping.

Chang Dajin's face changed. "Where is Xu Zhong!?"

The man replied. "He is outside."

"Bring him in!" Chang Dajin banged the table in anger. "This idiot!"

Chang Dajin looks angry, but Dong Xuebing knows he purposely showed his anger to show him he is unaware of this incident. This is unnecessary as Dong Xuebing knows Chang Dajin should be innocent. Chang Dajin is a businessman and doesn't need to send this recording to the Commission for Discipline Inspection. There's nothing to gain from it, and he will risk getting exposed. It will be too stupid. But why did Xu Zhong do this?!

The office door opens.

A man was pushed into the office from outside.

Dong Xuebing looked at that man. This is Xu Zhong.

"Don't know you know about the regulations of the surveillance room?" Chang Dajin stares at him coldly.

Xu Zhong replied emotionlessly. "I know."

Chang Dajin hit his desk. "Then why did you do this? Are you trying to get me in trouble?!"

Xu Zhong kept quiet.

Chang Dajin was about to continue scolding but was stopped by Dong Xuebing. "I have two questions."

"Do you know Geng Xinke?" Dong Xuebing asked. "How did you know him?"

Xu Zhong did not answer.

Chang Dajin shouted. "Mr. Dong is asking you now! Answer him!"

Xu Zhong replied. "Xinke and I are high school classmates.

Dong Xuebing narrowed his eyes. "You two have grudges in the past?"

Xu Zhong's eyes changed. "I was forced to drop out of school because of him! How can he be a government official while I become like this!"

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Chapter 719: Settled!

Afternoon 4 pm.

Only Chang Dajin and Dong Xuebing remained in the office.

"Mr. Chang, are all the recordings here?"

"We had searched his room, and there are no more DVDs."

"Alright. I will let you all deal with Xu Zhong and will not interfere."

"I'm sorry to have caused so much trouble for you."

"Haha…. I am the one who caused troubles for you over this misunderstanding."

"That's right. It's a misunderstanding. But this is still our hotel's fault. We had failed in managing our staffs."

Everything is cleared.

It's a coincidence for Geng Xinke and Lin Pingping to meet Xu Zhong at the hotel. Xu Zhong had a grudge against Geng Xinke when they were in high school. But Dong Xuebing doesn't know why, and Xu Zhong was forced to drop out of school because of Geng Xinke. This is why he secretly recorded the video into DVD and sent it to the Subdistrict as revenge.

"Xu Zhong?" Geng Xinke thought for a while before remembering who this person was. "It's him?! How come? I have not seen him after high school."

"He is working at Cheng Hai Hotel's surveillance room." Geng Yuehua replied sternly and told him what Dong Xuebing said. "All the recordings and DVDs had been recovered, and they are with me now. Everything is settled."

Geng Xinke is relieved. "Thank you, Sis."

"You should thank yourself." Geng Yuehua replied coldly. "Look at the trouble you have caused for me today!"

Geng Xinke dares not retort to his sister's scolding.

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Chapter 720: The 'fighting' incident!

Next day. 10 am.

The air is filled with smog today.

Dong Xuebing conducted an inspection round of the Subdistrict Office and saw all his staff working hard. They are not gossiping about anything particular, and this made him relieved. Geng Xinke and Lin Pingping's recording was not exposed. Only a few people know about this incident. He had instructed the Secretary of the Disciplinary Work Committee, Qu Yiqiang, to keep this a secret. Moreover, the person involved in the District Mayor's brother.

Dong Xuebing nodded and went upstairs to his office.

Suddenly, footsteps are coming from upstairs, and Geng Xinke appears in front of Dong Xuebing.

"Secretary Geng." Dong Xuebing smiles. "You seemed to be very busy."

Geng Xinke stopped. "Yes. I am going to the neighborhoods to check on the earthquake prevention and mitigation awareness campaign's progress."

"Thanks for working so hard." Dong Xuebing looks at him. "Are you free this evening? Want to have dinner together?"

Geng Xinke coldly replied. "I am busy today. Let's talk about it another day."

Dong Xuebing laughed. "Alright. Let's arrange another day."

I will be fine?!

Geng Xinke is relieved. He thought his sister had used her authority to stop this investigation. After all, he had only grabbed Dong Xuebing's collar and did not punch him. This is not considered hitting Dong Xuebing and is not so severe.

If possible, Geng Xinke does not want to be punished.

Geng Xinke's mood got better as everything was finally over.

When it was almost time to report off, Geng Xinke received a call from the District Government Office, and his face changed. The District Government had issued 1.5 million funds for the earthquake response exercise. He remembers this was a ridiculous request by Dong Xuebing and did not expect the District Government to agree.

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