Reborn as a Noble’s Son
Chapter 1219 - Chapter 1219 Chapter 1174 Liu Zhentaos Decision

Chapter 1219: Chapter 1174: Liu Zhentao’s Decision Chapter 1219: Chapter 1174: Liu Zhentao’s Decision Liu Zhentao’s words surprised and puzzled He Mei. She knew her husband’s temperament very well–he was the epitome of perseverance. Throughout many years in his official career, He Mei had always been by his side. It could be said that she saw every drop of sweat and effort her husband made and had never seen him so disheartened before.

“Old Liu, what happened? This doesn’t seem like you,” He Mei said softly.

As the conversation continued, Liu Zhentao gradually adjusted his mindset. Initially, when he heard the news, he was shocked, but after all, Liu Zhentao was no ordinary figure. He certainly possessed the strength to cope.

By now, he had calmed down. He looked up at his wife, then said, “While we are still fighting tooth and nail for positions inside Longxi Province, Nie Zhenbang’s sights have long surpassed the level of a local hall section. He’s already targeting the provincial-ministerial level. Just now, I got a call from Zhenhai. It’s very likely that Nie Zhenbang’s older brother will take charge of a locality.”

“This…” He Mei was also stunned, somewhat incredulous, “That can’t be possible. He’s just a bureau-level official, how can he manipulate a promotion and transfer of a full ministerial level? Could it be a rumor?”

Upon hearing this, Liu Zhentao shook his head with conviction. Initially, he had the same thought. But now, having calmed down, he was sure that Nie Zhenbang indeed had that capability, “No, you know Zhenhai’s personality. He would never speak without firm evidence. The Nie family, in fact, has been led by Nie Zhenbang since Elder Nie stepped down. With his capabilities, this is nothing.”

Although He Mei was taken aback, she nonetheless comforted him with a smile, “Old Liu, don’t belittle yourself. Nie Zhenbang is indeed very capable and influential, but your goals differ from his. I think that Nie Zhenbang’s strength could actually be an advantage, even a benefit, for you.”

His wife’s words suddenly made Liu Zhentao feel as if a light had dawned on him. He had been disheartened just before, because Nie Zhenbang loomed before him like an insurmountable mountain.

At that moment, Liu Zhentao had almost lost his confidence. But now, after his wife’s advice, it was as if a light had shone on him, offering a fresh perspective.

At first, he had seen Nie Zhenbang as a rival in his career, and facing the formidable Nie Zhenbang, Liu Zhentao naturally felt powerless. But now he realized that they were different not only in terms of strategy but also in aspirations. For others, being a part of the ‘Nine Tripod’ might be the pinnacle of success, but for Nie Zhenbang, perhaps only reaching the top held certain allure. As for him, he would have trouble even entering the ‘Nine Tripod,’ let alone reaching the top. The two were not on the same level at all.

Now, having taken his wife’s advice to heart, Liu Zhentao could see his own path. Following Nie Zhenbang might even give him the chance to enter the ‘Nine Tripod.’

With that thought in mind, Liu Zhentao stood up, “Old He, you rest first. I’m going out for a bit.”

Seeing his wife’s slightly astonished look, Liu Zhentao said, “I’m going to visit Secretary Nie.”

Now that he had made a decision, Liu Zhentao wouldn’t hesitate. Visiting Nie Zhenbang at this time had a simple purpose for Liu Zhentao–to figure out Nie Zhenbang’s stance on personnel adjustments in Longxi Province and to keep pace with him in the upcoming process. That was Liu Zhentao’s plan.

With tomorrow’s schedule, there wouldn’t be enough time. A standing committee meeting was scheduled for the morning. If there were opposing views on personnel adjustments, things could certainly get awkward.

He Mei gently tugged at him and said in a low voice, “At this hour, I think it’s better if you first give him a call.”

When Nie Zhenbang received Liu Zhentao’s call, he could clearly sense the subtle changes in Liu Zhentao’s tone. Nie Zhenbang didn’t refuse Liu Zhentao’s request to come over. Glancing at the time, even though it was already one o’clock in the morning, Nie Zhenbang still agreed. He had to afford Liu Zhentao that much respect.

After hanging up, Nie Zhenbang’s expression darkened. Li Guohua had played his cards well. The circle might be small, but it wasn’t without its unbreakable boundaries. This matter involved only him and Li Guohua–clearly, Li Guohua had deliberately spread the news within the circle.

Nie Zhenbang wasn’t surprised that Liu Zhentao knew about it. Coming from Jingcheng, the Liu Family was part of the circle and had considerable connections. If they couldn’t know about such news first-hand, that wouldn’t be the Liu Family.

The distance from the provincial committee’s family compound to the provincial committee’s hotel was only a few steps. In about five minutes, there was a knock at the door.

Upon opening the door, Liu Zhentao was already standing at the threshold, “Secretary, I’m really sorry to disturb you this late and interrupt your rest.”

Liu Zhentao arrived with a smile on his face, speaking extremely courteously. The subtle change in his attitude also gave Nie Zhenbang a sense of awareness.

Welcoming Liu Zhentao into the room, Nie Zhenbang smiled and said, “It just so happens that I have some matters at hand and have not yet rested. Comrade Zhentao, you’re too polite.”

Once they were seated, Liu Zhentao said with a smile, “I hope Secretary Nie won’t laugh at me. I’ve come so late because I was troubled by some personnel issues and couldn’t sleep. So, I came to communicate with the Secretary and seek some advice.”

Although that was how he phrased it, the meaning revealed in his words was very clear and straightforward. This took Nie Zhenbang by surprise. The attitude Liu Zhentao displayed was completely in line with following the organization’s lead.

Nie Zhenbang couldn’t figure out exactly what Liu Zhentao was thinking, but he wasn’t the least bit intimidated, regardless of Liu Zhentao’s motives. As long as he did what he was supposed to do, that was enough. That was Nie Zhenbang’s line of thinking.

After pondering for a moment, Nie Zhenbang slowly said, “The personnel adjustments within the province, overall, are quite good. The Organization Department has done an outstanding job in arranging various positions. They have taken all aspects into consideration, which is quite rare. It reflects not only a trend towards younger cadres but also the selection of capable comrades. I believe it’s quite commendable. As for the specifics, we can only see at tomorrow’s Standing Committee meeting.”

Nie Zhenbang’s words seemed to hold little weight on the surface, but for Liu Zhentao, they revealed plenty of information.

Firstly, saying that all aspects have been taken into consideration could mean that the Organization Department has assessed every aspect of the cadres under evaluation. However, it could also mean that the interests of everyone within the Provincial Standing Committee have been taken into account.

Moreover, the last sentence about tomorrow’s Standing Committee meeting also conveyed Nie Zhenbang’s stance. With the current personnel adjustments, Nie Zhenbang’s position was unique. His faction had no candidates in the field, which guaranteed his detached status.

Now, by saying this, he was undoubtedly telling Liu Zhentao that he wouldn’t take a stance during the Standing Committee meeting. He would wait until the discussion was complete and the situation was clear before making a decision.

Hearing this, Liu Zhentao also became contemplative. This was an opportunity for him. Was it not seen that, starting with Director Shen’s term in Minan Province, many leaders had emerged? Starting with Leader Jia Minfu and Leader Lin He, even President Qiao had emerged from Minan Province. This was a vivid example.

With Liu Zhentao’s insight and experience, it wasn’t hard to see that Nie Zhenbang’s prospects were bright. Although young, Nie Zhenbang’s qualifications were second to none. In WangHai, he had already been a vice-ministerial cadre and a member of the Provincial Standing Committee.

Later, from the San Gong Office to Bashu Province, then to Huaxia Group and Hongjiang Province, he had been at the ministerial level for five or six years. Now in Longxi Province, as long as he made achievements, nothing else would be in doubt. That was the source of Nie Zhenbang’s confidence.

It was time to make a firm decision. Even lighting a cold stove had its advantages, for adversity revealed true feelings. Moreover, Nie Zhenbang wasn’t really a cold stove; he simply hadn’t officially risen to prominence yet.

Moving closer to him now was an investment. Waiting until the situation clarified before moving closer would not exhibit the preciousness of the moment. Sometimes, having the willingness to gamble was also a skill.

Considering this, Liu Zhentao pondered for a moment. Looking at Nie Zhenbang, he said, “The Secretary’s words are like clearing the clouds to see the sun. I am deeply inspired. I will definitely maintain alignment with the organization.”

Liu Zhentao spoke smoothly and decisively, without any awkwardness. Hearing this, Nie Zhenbang, too, was somewhat surprised.

He was stunned for a moment. What did Liu Zhentao mean by such prompt and direct loyalty? But soon, Nie Zhenbang came to his senses, his heart filled with amusement. If Li Guohua knew that spreading rumors deliberately, trying to create obstacles for Nie Zhenbang in his efforts to promote his elder brother Nie Jialei, had instead facilitated Liu Zhentao’s change in attitude, he wondered if Li Guohua would be so angry that he’d spew blood.

Obviously, Liu Zhentao had been impressed by him. While others in the Provincial Standing Committee were still quarreling over the adjustment of bureau-level cadres, he was already planning for the adjustment of provincial-level cadres. This difference had a tremendous impact on Liu Zhentao.

Looking at it now, Liu Zhentao’s attitude seemed to be genuinely from the heart. Liu Zhentao’s intention was not difficult to guess. At this moment, Liu Zhentao was making a kind of early investment. When one man ascends to the heavens, even his dogs and chickens rise with him; this was not just an empty saying.

After pondering for a while, Nie Zhenbang also smiled and said, “Comrade Zhentao, let’s work hard together.” (To be continued. If you liked this work, you are welcome to come to Qidian to cast your recommendation votes and monthly votes. Your support is my greatest motivation.)