Reborn as a Noble's Son

Huang Xuyang walked into the office and placed Nie Zhenbang’s purple clay teacup on the table, but continued to stand nearby.

Huang Xuyang’s strange behavior made Nie Zhenbang curious. Since returning from his inspection of Yanling City, all aspects of work in Liangxi City had gotten back on track. The city’s economy was thriving, and even without him, it would naturally continue along this trajectory. Liangxi City’s geographical advantage was unparalleled. In Nie Zhenbang’s words, even if a pig were appointed mayor here, Liangxi City’s economy would still grow, albeit at varying speeds of development.

“Xuyang, is there anything else?” Nie Zhenbang asked curiously.

Compared to two months ago when he first became his secretary, Huang Xuyang had somewhat evolved, exuding self-confidence in his speech and demeanor. This was the transformation brought about by a change in status.

Upon hearing Nie Zhenbang’s query, Huang Xuyang hesitated before speaking, “Mayor, I heard that in Guicheng District recently, many projects have resorted to violent demolitions.”

Violent demolitions?

Upon hearing this phrase, Nie Zhenbang’s eyebrows furrowed. This was his primary concern regarding urban renewal projects. Demolitions involved many complexities, and violent tactics could significantly impact a project. This was something that could not be tolerated as it would eventually leave ordinary citizens defenseless.

After a moment’s contemplation, Nie Zhenbang stood up, “Xuyang, call Qing Shan to prepare a car. Let’s go to Guicheng District.”

Just as Huang Xuyang turned to leave, Nie Zhenbang stopped him again, “Wait a moment, don’t use car number two. Coordinate a more common vehicle.”

The second car was too conspicuous. Everyone knew it was the mayor’s official vehicle and its presence would paint a falsely peaceful image between developers and locals.

As soon as they left the government office building, a car, a simple black Santana arranged by Huang Xuyang, was waiting at the entrance. These vehicles used to serve as official cars for the Liangxi City Government, now some used and others stored. It was rare to find such an inconspicuous car.

Once they were in the car, Yang Qingshan cheerfully suggested, “Mayor, this car is a bit old. The air conditioning isn’t great. Shall we roll down the windows?”

“No need, we won’t be traveling far. Let’s go directly to check the project sites in Guicheng District,” Nie Zhenbang replied in a low voice.

While driving into Guicheng District, the traffic became congested. Guicheng District was an old city district with narrow roads, so traffic jams were common, especially now that many roads were under construction or half-closed. The congestion worsened considerably.

Seeing the endless stream of cars ahead and glancing at his watch, Nie Zhenbang paused briefly before instructing, “Qing Shan, Xuyang and I will get down here. Find a place to park the car and meet us later.”

Nie Zhenbang wore a black, shiny, striped T-shirt and dark blue casual slacks, which made him look mature and steady. This was how most officials dressed – of any ten officials, six would be dressed this way.

After walking less than a hundred meters from the roadside, they came to a pedestrian path which led to Guicheng District’s large construction site.

Next to him, Huang Xuyang began to explain, “Mayor, the upcoming site is Lot 7 project, won in a bid by Wanhe Real Estate. The project is now called Wanhe Blue Sky City.”

Huang Xuyang’s familiarity with the development projects in Guicheng District pleased Nie Zhenbang. As his secretary, Huang Xuyang only needed to perform basic secretarial duties. Yet, he had gone out of his way to familiarize himself with these projects, showing his dedication. Such a work attitude was the foundation of a person’s success.

Nie Zhenbang did not hesitate to express his approval, “That’s great, Xuyang. It’s good to learn and listen a lot, but at the same time, reflect on these things.”

Having said that, Nie Zhenbang strode forward. The place was undergoing demolition and expansion of roads; the first structures to be taken down were the low-rise houses along the highway.

Road expansion fell under government civil engineering works, and the demolition and compensation standards were relatively straight forward with stringent legal regulations, hardly causing any significant issues.

Upon entering, they found many old residents gathered together. Some of them were preparing to move or demolish their houses.

As they hadn’t witnessed any forced demolitions, Nie Zhenbang believed Huang Xuyang’s word as he knew that Huang Xuyang wouldn’t lie about such matters. So, they continued to move forward only to encounter a standoff between two groups.

“Jia Lao Liu, let me make this clear, it’s better for you to demolish this house soon to avoid forcing our hand. Look at the Hu family, didn’t we just demolish their place last night? Don’t say I didn’t warn you. If there are any valuables at home, they might be buried when the time comes,” one man threatened.