Reborn as a Noble's Son

Gazing at Nie Zhenbang’s thoughtful expression, Yang Shengli felt somewhat emotional. His son-in-law was politically gifted, but his tactics were still juvenile. For example, in the Liangxi incident, he could have reported Li Guohua’s misdeeds through conventional channels, which would have also cost Li his position, and saved Shen Yanshuo the trouble of preserving the Li family’s honor. That would have been a win-win situation. However, Nie Zhenbang chose a path that provoked the Li family, which was not wise and showed his immaturity.

Immediately, Yang Shengli nodded and said, “In the next few days, you should spend some quality time with An Na. I think she seems somewhat prenatally depressed. Try to comfort her. Furthermore, you should visit your grandfather. In Jingcheng, it would be useful to leverage the relationships you can, both with Elder Nan and Secretary General Yuan, and even Vice Chairman Shen. Hua Xia traditions emphasize ceremony and respect. As the saying goes, no one can fault you for being too respectful. Now is the time for you to visit your elders and leaders. It will also be beneficial to you.”

At this moment, his mother-in-law walked in. Seeing Yang Shengli’s serious demeanor, she laughed and said, “Zhenbang, don’t mind him. He’s addicted to micromanaging things. Just be cautious and you’ll be fine. Whether it’s in Wanghai or elsewhere, aren’t all these territories part of our nation? What is there to fear? Come, let’s have dinner.”

The words of his mother-in-law made Yang Shengli chuckle. Standing up, he retorted: “What does a woman know? I’m saying this for his own good. The Nie family only has him as their hope. If he fails, the Nies might decline.”

After having dinner at his father-in-law’s house, An Na stayed behind. Nie Zhenbang, however, alone left for the Yang mansion. Elder Yang hadn’t much to say about Nie Zhenbang’s transfer to Wanghai; he spared his words and only offered: “Think thrice before you act.”

In summary, the message is clear: Nie Zhenbang should plan carefully before acting and always be cautious.

The very next day, Nie Zhenbang arrived at the Xishan Sanatorium. Showing his special pass, identification card, and work permit, he was allowed into the heavily guarded area. Since his retirement, Elder Nan had been living there, keeping a low profile and completely out of the public eye. So much so, there had been rumors of his death in the past couple of years.

As he entered Elder Nan’s yard, he found the old man performing Tai Chi. Two years had passed since their last meeting, and Nan looked even older. His spirit seemed to have faded, and his now all-white hair showed signs of his advanced age.

Seeing Nie Zhenbang come in, Elder Nan finished his set of Tai Chi and sat down at the stone table under a tree in the yard. He smiled and remarked, “It’s been a long time since you last visited, young man.”

“Grandfather, you’ve aged,” Nie Zhenbang replied with some emotion.

Elder Nan waved his hand and chuckled, “Ignorant child, birth, aging, sickness, and death are the facts of life. They are the cycle of nature. Ancient emperors claimed to live forever, but have you ever seen one who did? New generations replace old ones. Remember what the Chairman once said: ‘This world belongs to us, but also to you. But ultimately, it’s yours.\'”

Nie Zhenbang sat down beside the stone table. There were fruits arranged on it. He peeled an orange and handed it to Elder Nan, then said, “Grandfather, I came to say goodbye this time. I estimate that I am going to Wanghai City for work.”

Upon hearing this, Elder Nan fell silent for a moment before responding slowly: “Zhenbang, since my retirement, I have been indulging in learning and becoming quite cultured, studying Taizu’s poetry. Over these years, I’ve gained some insights. Of all the poets, I especially appreciate Zhou Dunyi’s prose poem ‘The Language of Flowers’.”

Nie Zhenbang began to ponder this, as he was well-aware of ‘The Language of Flowers’ as a Chinese Literature graduate. The most famous line in it states: ‘Out of the mud, yet unsoiled; bathing in clear waves, without vanity.’

Could it be that grandfather was giving subtle approval to what I did in Liangxi, or cautioning me about my impending journey to Wanghai?

At this moment, Elder Nan casually glanced at Nie Zhenbang. Some things couldn’t be explicitly stated. They required insight and understanding, which had to be acquired on one’s own.

The health care physician then arrived and said, “Leader, it’s time for your physical therapy.”

Seeing this, Nie Zhenbang naturally couldn’t stick around. He stood up and bid his farewell. A visit to Secretary General Yuan was not something he could arrange on his own.

Checking his watch and seeing there was still time, Nie Zhenbang proceeded to Qingzheng. In Mu Dingjian’s office, Ding Jian laughed upon seeing him: “The Leader said you’d be coming today. I didn’t believe it but here you are.”

Guided by Ding Jian, Nie Zhenbang once again entered Vice Chairman Shen’s residence. Seeing Nie Zhenbang sitting straight and serious, Vice Chairman Shen revealed a smile of satisfaction on his face. He nodded approvingly and said: “The Eastern Development Forum was excellent, yielding fruitful results. This experience should be promoted nationwide. Central and remote western regions should learn from this model of success.”

Upon hearing this, Nie Zhenbang was somewhat taken aback. Apparently, even at this point, Vice Chairman Shen was already considering the strategy of developing the Western Region.

After a moment, Vice Chairman Shen continued: “This time, you’re going to Wanghai, a great place indeed. This special economic zone is of great significance to you. I’ve seen your work record. You have experience working in the Western Region and in developed areas like Liangxi. Going to the Wanghai Special Economic Zone is a new challenge for you. It will be crucial for you in the future in terms of overall planning. So, work hard.”

Given the circumstances, the Vice Chairman’s actions made it clear that he supported Nie Zhenbang’s move to Wanghai.

After absorbing some guidance, Nie Zhenbang and Ding Jian bid farewell and left the Forbidden City. During the rare free days, Nie Zhenbang chose to stay at his old mansion. Yah, his baby, was now a month old and living a comfortable life, eating and sleeping without causing much fuss, making it easy for the caretakers.

At the same time, it was decided that An Na, Dong Wan, and the others would temporarily stay back instead of going to Wanghai due to their pregnancies. Despite the inconvenience of being in Jingcheng, they were at least near to their families.

After spending a leisurely week at home, the Organization Department of Minnan Province Committee officially released a document of appointment and dismissal, appointing Comrade Nie Zhenbang to the Wanghai Municipal Party Committee as a member and standing committee member, and nominating him as the Executive Deputy Mayor of Wanghai Municipal People’s Government.

PS: Brothers and sisters, it’s June, and I have decided to compete for the monthly votes. Starting today, I’m on it. This is the first update of the day, the second one coming this afternoon, the third at 8 p.m. As for the fourth? That’s up to all of you. (.)