A man in Handong: living off Zhong Xiaoai

"Governor, let me introduce you. This is Lu Yike, the deputy director of the First Division of the Anti-Corruption Bureau of Handong Province. She is an outstanding and young cadre. I wonder if you have heard of her before? I was quite worried before, afraid that there might be something wrong with my arrangements. But now that my wife is temporarily pregnant and needs to be taken care of, I can finally relax. Director Lu Yike is not only highly capable at work, but also an upright person. She has always had great respect and admiration for you, Governor Qi. I was wondering if you could give her an opportunity to stay by your side and assist you in handling some daily affairs? This is both her personal wish and a great blessing for her. I believe that with her by your side, she will definitely be able to share a lot of your burden and make our work run more smoothly."

Upon hearing Sha Ruijin's words, Ji Changming's expression darkened, as he was unsure whether it was appropriate to bring up such a matter at this time.

After all, the empress had just announced her pregnancy, and you're already rushing to send a concubine to her.

Qi Tongwei's expression was rather grim. He glanced at Zhong Xiaoai beside him.

Zhong Xiaoai glanced at her husband Qi Tongwei, then at Lu Yike.

"I can make the decision on this matter. We have many sisters in our family, so having one more or one less won't make a big difference. The key is whether you follow the rules and know your place. Lu Yike, I've heard of you. You're quite capable at work and quick-witted. If you really want to learn from Tongwei, you can move in with us tonight. But I want to make one thing clear: once you're in this family, you have to follow our rules. Don't expect any special treatment. Think it over carefully. If you can do that, I'll naturally welcome you."

Upon hearing this, Sha Ruijin immediately burst into laughter.

"Madam, please rest assured! I can't speak for everything else, but when it comes to manners, she's always been exceptionally good. She's a smart woman; she knows what to say and do in different situations. I believe that with her by your side, Governor and you will both be satisfied and at ease. Then, you and the Governor can enjoy your family time, and leave the work to us subordinates!"

Seeing this, Lu Yi felt a burning sensation on his face.

“Madam, Governor, I am truly… truly grateful for this opportunity. From now on, I will definitely obey your orders. If you tell me to go east, I will never go west. I will do whatever you ask me to do without the slightest negligence. I will do my best to do everything well and will never make you angry, so please rest assured! I know I still have a lot to learn and improve, but I will work hard and strive to become better so as not to disappoint you.”

Seeing Lu Yike's reaction, Zhong Xiaoai looked at Yang Mi.

"Mimi, I'm really too tired tonight. After all, I'm carrying a little baby, so I have to be extra careful. But, as you know, Tongwei is very busy with work, and Lu Yike just joined our family, so she still needs time to get used to things. How about this, I'll give you a special task tonight: you can accompany Tongwei and Lu Yike to check out this new car. This will make things easier for Tongwei and help Lu Yike integrate more quickly. What do you think? Thank you for your help, and I'll thank you properly later."

Upon hearing this, Yang Mi realized he was being asked to accompany her to the car inspection again. He had accompanied Ding Yao and Xiao Jieba to their inspections before.

But thinking about it, it's been a long time since I've driven with Qi Tongwei. Vehicle inspection used to be a chore, but now it's a good job.

"Oh, Sister Ai, don't worry about leaving this task to me~ I'm very experienced and a pro at this kind of thing! Tonight, I promise Brother Tongwei and Sister Yike will have a super awesome driving experience, they'll be absolutely satisfied and comfortable. You just focus on taking care of our little baby, and leave everything else to your capable sister, okay?"

Upon hearing this, Qi Tongwei wondered whether he should be happy or not, as he had been perfectly arranged for himself once again.

"Alright then, Lu Yike, now that you're one of us, I won't stand on ceremony anymore. There's a rule in our family you must remember: respect your older sisters. They've been through thick and thin with me and are an indispensable part of our family. You're young and energetic, and I'm glad you've joined us and brought a fresh perspective. But the rules can't be broken. This is our family tradition and the foundation for our harmonious relationship. I believe you're a smart girl and you can definitely do that, making our family even more harmonious and happy."

Lu Yike listened to Qi Tongwei's words and nodded with a blush on her face.

"Governor, you really can't worry! I... when I'm being obedient, I'm more obedient than anyone else. You might see me as serious and focused at work, but that's all to make things go more smoothly. Actually, in life, I'm not entirely like that; I also have a very soft and obedient side. I will respect every member of my family, especially my sisters. I will strive to be someone who can be independent at work and get along well with everyone in life. Please believe me, I will definitely do a good job."

Chapter 609 Gao Yuliang, did you plan this all along?

Although Lu Yike had a strong liking for Qi Tongwei, she was reluctant to become part of Qi Tongwei's collection in his garage.

But now, she doesn't know what's wrong with her. As if possessed, she has somehow agreed to become a member of Qi Tongwei's harem.

Although Lu Yike didn't know how many members Qi Tongwei had in his harem, she could sense that Qi Tongwei must have quite a few.

While Lu Yike was still struggling with her own thoughts...

At this moment, Qi Tongwei spoke again.

"Haha, since we're all family now, let's not stand on ceremony. Right now, the position of district head in Guangming District is vacant. It's a considerable challenge, but also a rare opportunity. Yike, I see you're capable and hardworking. You're currently at the deputy director level, so I trust you to take that position. Go directly to Guangming District and take over as district head sometime. That's a full director-level position, with significant responsibility, but it will also allow you to better utilize your talents. I believe in you; I'm sure you can achieve great things!"

Upon hearing Qi Tongwei's words, Lu Yi-ke's eyes widened.

“Governor, you…you flatter me. I was only recently appointed as deputy director by Director Sha, and now you want me to be the district head of Guangming District? Is this…is this appropriate? I know it is an important position with great responsibility, and I am afraid that I do not have enough experience and that I will fail to live up to your expectations.”

Sha Ruijin looked at Lu Yike beside him and immediately said.

"Yes, that's fine. Don't be confused. Our Governor Qi is personally authorized by the top leadership of the Great Xia Kingdom and holds the power of all personnel appointments in Handong Province. Your promotion from a deputy director to a district head at the director level is just a piece of cake for him. So, don't worry about this, and don't feel any pressure. From now on, you only need to work diligently by the side of the governor and his wife. The issue of rank is really not something you should be thinking about. With Governor Qi around, your future is bright. Go ahead and do your job with confidence!"

Seeing Sha Ruijin's actions, Gao Yuliang felt like he had eaten shit.

Damn it! I originally invited Governor Qi out to see if there was a chance for me to move aside and pick up the retired Party Secretary of Luzhou City, but now this Sha Ruijin has stolen the show.

Moreover, Lu Yi is the daughter of his ex-wife's sister. Why didn't he think of doing this in advance?

With this in mind, Gao Yuliang decided not to wait for Ma Haitao and Han Bin to recommend him; he would speak up himself.

"Governor, you have always been my good leader and the superior I respect most. In our Qi family clique, I was one of the earlier members to become a bureau-level cadre. Over the years, I have worked diligently and conscientiously as the director of the Handong Provincial Prison Administration Bureau, and have accumulated a lot of experience. Now, I have heard that Comrade Feng Lei, the secretary of the Luzhou Municipal Party Committee, is about to retire, and this position will be vacant. I feel that this is a rare opportunity and a test of my personal abilities and sense of responsibility."

In the past two days, I have spoken with Mayor Ma Haitao of Lüzhou City and Secretary Han Bin of the Lüzhou Municipal Political and Legal Committee. They affirmed my abilities and understanding of the work situation in Lüzhou City, and also believe that I am suitable to serve as the Party Secretary of Lüzhou City. Therefore, I would like to take this opportunity to express my willingness to you and see if I can have the opportunity to go to Lüzhou City and take over this position as Party Secretary. I believe that under your leadership, I will definitely be able to fulfill this new role and contribute my share to the development of Lüzhou City.”

After Gao Yuliang finished speaking, Ma Haitao did not react.

Han Bin glanced at the pheasant, as if hinting that he should say something.

Han Bin originally didn't want to get involved in this mess, but for his brother's sake, he decided to go all out.

"Governor, as you know, Director Yu Liang did talk to me about this matter not long ago. Although I haven't been working in Luzhou City for very long, I've gained a basic understanding of the situation here. I think Director Yu Liang's work ability and his methods are quite compatible with the current situation in Luzhou City, and we should be able to get along."

Requesting 0 flowers

Of course, this is just my personal opinion and does not represent the opinion of the Luzhou Municipal Party Committee. However, I believe that all the brothers in our Qi family gang are capable and responsible. Whoever becomes the Party Secretary of Luzhou will do so for the good of Luzhou's development. Therefore, Governor, you can make the arrangement as you see fit; Luzhou will definitely give your full support.”

When Gao Yuliang saw that Han Bin had come out to defend him, it seemed that Shanji hadn't been exaggerating and had really helped him mediate.

So Gao Yuliang decided to strike while the iron was hot and continue speaking.

"Governor, please let me explain. My request isn't entirely based on my personal considerations. I've always felt that more members of the Qi family should be given important positions to look after the Governor and his wife's home and protect their property. This is everyone's responsibility and mission. I also want to take this opportunity to see if I can take a step further and contribute more to the Qi family."

...

Furthermore, if I am fortunate enough to become the Party Secretary of Lüzhou City, then the position of Director of the Handong Provincial Prison Administration Bureau can certainly be considered for our Deputy Director, Comrade Zhao Shanhe. Comrade Shanhe, as you know, has always been a key member of our Qi family clique, possessing outstanding abilities, working diligently, and being utterly loyal to our Qi family. I believe he is fully capable of fulfilling the duties of this director and leading the Handong Provincial Prison Administration Bureau to a brighter future. Therefore, Governor, what do you think of my idea?

After hearing Gao Yuliang's words, Qi Tongwei smiled slightly.

"Comrade Yuliang, haha, what you just said really surprised me. I can't help but ask, was this a spur-of-the-moment decision, or was it premeditated? Judging from your intention in asking Comrade Han Bin to speak on your behalf, this doesn't seem like a spur-of-the-moment thing, but rather quite premeditated! What, do you think the position of Secretary of the Lüzhou Municipal Party Committee is a coveted prize, and you want to reserve a seat for yourself in advance?"

Chapter 610 Everything in Handong Province is within Governor Qi's plan

Gao Yuliang's face turned pale after hearing Qi Tongwei's words.

"Governor, please don't misunderstand. I'm absolutely not doing this out of personal selfishness. I'm thinking about the overall grand plan of the Qi Family Gang, for your ambitions, and for the future development of other comrades in the Qi Family Gang, such as Zhao Shanhe. That's why I had this immature idea. I really don't mean anything by it. I'm just thinking about how I can better contribute to the Qi Family Gang and share your burdens. Please forgive me, I'm so magnanimous! I was just in a hurry and didn't know how to say it, so I came directly to you."

Qi Tongwei ate the food on the table without any expression.

"As you all know, among these seven major families, the Zou family has recently emerged. Zou Zhengguo's younger brother, Zou Shuaifu, is about to take office in a revolving door. This time, the higher-ups are making significant moves, not only transferring our Prosecutor General Ji Changming from Handong '143' Province, but also planning to relocate Comrade Sha Ruijin. However, this time, we don't need to be as passive as before. I have already made a decision. Since the power to appoint cadres in Handong Province was granted to me by the Xia State's high command, I should take the lead in transferring Comrade Sha Ruijin. All the relevant documents have been prepared, and you will all receive the official notification tomorrow morning."

"Sha Ruijin, you will be taking over as mayor of Lüzhou City, while Comrade Ma Haitao will become the Party Secretary of Lüzhou City. Ma Haitao has been deeply involved in Lüzhou for a long time and knows every inch of the land and every household there like the back of his hand. Having him take over as Party Secretary will undoubtedly allow him to grasp the pulse of Lüzhou's development more accurately. This move is also for the long-term planning of our Qi family clique; I hope you understand my intentions."

Upon hearing this, Sha Ruijin's expression immediately turned sour.

What does that mean? Even if you were promoted to the top position, wouldn't you still be the Party Secretary, or even just a mayor?

Ma Haitao has only been a bureau chief for a few days, and I'm going to be his deputy.

Before Sha Ruijin could react, and before Ma Haitao could express his gratitude, Ji Changming hurriedly spoke up.

"Governor, I wholeheartedly agree with your decision to voluntarily transfer Comrade Sha Ruijin. This move undoubtedly demonstrates your courage and foresight, but the ensuing uncertainties also force us to be more vigilant. Comrade Zou Shuaifu is about to take over the Handong Provincial Procuratorate, which is undoubtedly an injection of new strength. However, the selection of the next Director of the Handong Provincial Anti-Corruption Bureau remains unknown."

The combined power of the Procuratorate and the Anti-Corruption Bureau of Handong Province is immense, enough to shake mountains and rivers and eradicate all roots of corruption. However, if used improperly, it could also harm innocent people and cause unnecessary unrest. Therefore, we must not take this point lightly.

Governor, do you already have a solution in mind? Or would you be willing to sit down with our Qi family comrades and discuss it together? While we may not be exceptionally resourceful, we can at least offer advice when needed and share this burden of worry. The stability and development of Handong is a matter of great importance to each and every one of us, and it is our shared responsibility.

Please feel free to offer your guidance, so that we can join hands and safeguard the future of Handong. No matter how the storms may rage, we must ensure that this great ship of Handong sails steadily towards a bright future.

"Gentlemen, as we all know, the personnel arrangement of cadres in Handong Province is a major responsibility entrusted to me by my superiors. I, Qi Tongwei, always keep this responsibility in mind and dare not slack off in the slightest. Since the Xia Kingdom's high-level leadership has entrusted me with the power to appoint and dismiss cadres in Handong Province, then on this land, I have the responsibility and obligation to use this power reasonably to ensure that our team can become stronger and more pure."

Based on an in-depth analysis of the current situation and a comprehensive assessment of the capabilities of our cadres, I have decided to make adjustments to some key positions. I believe that Chen Haonan, Deputy Director of the Hantong Provincial Police Department, with his outstanding leadership and rich practical experience, is very suitable to serve as the Director of the Hantong Provincial Anti-Corruption Bureau. I am confident that under his leadership, our anti-corruption campaign will achieve even more significant results.

Meanwhile, Zhao Shanhe, Deputy Director of the Handong Provincial Prison Administration Bureau, has long demonstrated outstanding performance in judicial work. He is not only highly skilled in his profession but also possesses strong principles. I proposed, and it was decided, that he would serve as the Executive Deputy Chief Prosecutor of the Handong Provincial Procuratorate. This arrangement aims to further strengthen our prosecutorial capabilities and ensure the fairness and authority of the law.

The relevant appointment and removal documents have been prepared and will be issued tomorrow morning along with Comrade Sha Ruijin's document, officially announcing these personnel changes. I hope everyone can understand and support my decision and work together to contribute to the prosperity and development of Handong Province. We are comrades in the same boat; only by thinking and working together can we overcome all difficulties and usher in a more glorious future…

Upon hearing Qi Tongwei's words, everyone present widened their eyes.

The pheasant was overjoyed. What did that mean? He had been promoted again.

After saying this, Qi Tongwei looked at Gao Yuliang standing to the side.

"Comrade Yuliang, I have carefully considered the points you just mentioned, and they do have some merit. Every decision I make must reflect a far-sighted plan for the overall situation and a thorough consideration of the future development of the Qi family gang. On this basis, I have not dared to neglect the future of any comrade, including Comrade Shanji Zhao Shanhe, whom you mentioned. I have already made some plans regarding his future arrangements and utilization to ensure that we can give full play to his strengths while consolidating the foundation of our team."

Therefore, as the director of the Handong Provincial Prison Administration Bureau, you have no need to worry about this. Your stable position is something I welcome, and it's key to team stability. You only need to continue to sit firmly in your seat and wholeheartedly fulfill your duties and obligations; I will handle the rest. Remember, we have a long road ahead, and every step must be taken steadily to go far.”

Hearing Qi Tongwei's words, Gao Yuliang's face turned extremely ugly.

At this moment, Ji Changming seemed to understand something and suddenly laughed.

"Governor, your move is truly brilliant! You have firmly secured the positions of Director of the Anti-Corruption Bureau of Handong Province and Deputy Chief Inspector of the Provincial Procuratorate. Your skill and wisdom are truly admirable! In this way, even if the Zou family is unwilling, they will find it difficult to cause any trouble in Handong in the short term."

As you know, I've been working at the Handong Provincial Procuratorate for many years, and the deputy procurators and mid-level cadres there are all people I personally trained; they are my confidants. I, Ji Changming, assure you here that once Zou Zhengguo's younger brother, Zou Shuaifu, arrives in Handong and takes over as the provincial procuratorate's chief procurator, he will find that he cannot shake anyone within the procuratorate. Our Handong Provincial Procuratorate is like an unbreakable iron plate, united from top to bottom, all revolving tightly around your will, Governor. Even if Zou Shuaifu comes, he can only lament his helplessness and will be unable to exert his power.

Governor, your strategy of 'using stillness to control movement, and remaining unchanged to respond to all changes' is truly brilliant! With you here, Handong's future will surely be even brighter!

Chapter 611 I Have Something Bad to Report

Zhong Xiaoai smiled slightly after hearing Ji Changming's words.

"Governor Ji, and everyone here, please don't panic or worry too much about the current situation. Today, I have already informed my father of the good news that the Zhong family is expecting a child. He was very pleased to hear this and told me to take good care of myself and focus on my pregnancy, saying that this is my most important task right now."

Whether Zou Zhengguo's younger brother can successfully take up his post in Handong remains to be seen. But I want to tell everyone that no matter how the external situation changes, as long as we unite closely around Governor Tongwei, work together to do our jobs well, and fulfill our responsibilities, then other disturbances and challenges are nothing to fear.

The rest—whether it's coordinating interpersonal relationships or managing the overall situation—don't require your excessive concern. With Governor Tongwei here and the support of the Zhong family, all difficulties and challenges will be easily overcome. Just go ahead and do your work with confidence, strive and forge ahead; the future of Handong will surely be even more glorious because of our efforts!

28 Upon hearing Zhong Xiaoai's words, Ji Changming suddenly understood.

"That's wonderful! This is truly exciting news! If Elder Zhong is willing to speak up, then we won't have to worry about Zou Shuaifu's matter anymore. Elder Zhong's influence is extraordinary!"

In this way, the future situation in Handong is gradually becoming clearer. With Elder Zhong's support and Governor Qi's wise leadership, our Qi family can be fearless and forge ahead! The sky won't fall; with Governor Qi leading the way, we only need to follow his lead and work together, and nothing can stop us from moving forward!

Governor Qi, you are truly our pillar of strength! With you here, we have the confidence and strength to meet any challenge and create a brighter future for Handong!

Qi Tongwei smiled as he listened to Ji Changming's words, then looked at Zhong Xiaoai who was standing to the side.

"Right now, my biggest wish is for Xiao Ai to be able to have a healthy pregnancy without any problems. This is the most important thing for our whole family, and it is also the common wish of my father-in-law and me. Xiao Ai's health is more important than anything else."

During her pregnancy, the work of a secretary was no longer suitable for her. She needed plenty of rest, and the company and care of her family, which we could not ignore.

Speaking of choosing a secretary, when I worked at the Police Department of Handong Province, I noticed a young man named Qin Ming, a forensic doctor. He was hardworking, highly capable, and a rare talent. Today, I've specially invited him here so everyone can get to know him.

From this day forward, Qin Ming will serve as my third secretary. I believe that with his abilities and sense of responsibility, he will be able to perform this job well and provide better service to me and everyone. At the same time, I hope that everyone will support Qin Ming's work as they have supported mine, and together we can contribute to the development of Handong.”

Seeing this, Qin Ming smiled at everyone.

"I am truly honored to have such a valuable opportunity to become Governor Qi's secretary. This is not only a responsibility for me, but also a weighty trust and expectation."

Moreover, I am even more honored that Governor Qi invited me to such an important occasion today, giving me the opportunity to get to know and connect with all of you senior colleagues. This is undoubtedly a rare opportunity for me to learn and grow.

From this day forward, I will dedicate myself wholeheartedly to serving Governor Qi. Whether it's scheduling or document processing, I will do my utmost to ensure every task is completed successfully. At the same time, I hope that everyone here will feel free to contact me if you have any work-related needs or suggestions. I will do my best to provide you with the best support and assistance.

Let us join hands and contribute our wisdom and strength to Governor Qi and to the future of Handong!

When Chan Ho-nam saw Qin Ming, he had a big smile on his face.

"Haha, Secretary Qin, you definitely have a bright future! When I was working at the Hubei Provincial Police Department, I often heard your name. People said you were young and promising, a rising star in our system."

Meeting you today, I can see you truly live up to your reputation! Look at your bearing, your decisiveness—you're definitely got the makings of something great. Governor Qi has such keen insight; to have such a talented person like you by our side is a blessing for Handong!