Chapter 321: Joining the Three People's Youth League

Seven human lives.

Seven of the political academy backbone and elites he personally handpicked.

Now, they have all been wiped out in one fell swoop.

Publicly shooting students!

Lu Qiao is stepping on his head to claim credit before his father.

He, Jiang Jianfeng, has become someone else's chess piece.

Yet, his father is full of praise and satisfaction regarding this matter.

Lu Qiao has done what many people—including himself, Mao Renfeng, Zheng Jiemin, and even Dai Li—wanted to do but dared not.

Jianfeng's eyes are filled with fury, yet he is helpless.

And then there is Li Ya...

He paces in the official residence garden with his hands behind his back.

Thinking carefully, since Li Ya returned from Yancheng, he seems to have botched quite a few tasks.

Is he a suspicious person?

A rare sense of doubt arises in Jianfeng's heart.

Just as he is pondering, the attendant Zhang Jing leads a young man wearing a white suit and gold-rimmed glasses over.

"Comrade Jianfeng."

The young man bows in salute.

The other party called him "comrade," and Jianfeng immediately feels a sense of goodwill. Seeing that he looks somewhat familiar, he cannot help but ask, "Who are you?"

"I am Hong Zhiyou, secretary to Station Chief Wu of the Jinhai Station. I saw you at the station during Lady's last trip to Jinhai," the young man respectfully replies.

"Right, I remember now!

"You are that 'Jinhai Expert'." Jianfeng smiles happily.

Of course, he would not forget this matter; if it weren't for Wu Jingzhong and his son-in-law pulling Kang Ze out to take the fall, the Lady's hurdle back then would likely have been difficult to clear.

"I dare not, I dare not.

"Any expertise Zhiyou has is entirely due to the protection of the Chairman and Comrade Jianfeng. I only wish to remain loyal to the Leader, and I would not regret it even if I died a hundred times."

Hong Zhiyou is terrified and quickly bows again.

"You have performed great service in matters regarding military supplies, American aid, and Ke Chengwu.

"Cousin Yuxuan also often praises you in front of me.

"The Party and State will not treat any meritorious official unfairly. You, this 'Jinhai Expert,' you are an expert indeed."

Jianfeng pats him on the shoulder and praises him.

"This subordinate will strive to perform new services and not fail the expectations of Comrade Jianfeng," Hong Zhiyou says while saluting.

"Attendant Zhang, what are you two..." Jianfeng looks at Zhang Jing with a smile.

"The Chairman and Lady have summoned him," Zhang Jing replies truthfully.

Summoned?

Wasn't it said they were resting?

Not seeing their own son, but seeing this Secretary Hong?

Jianfeng feels a little depressed, knowing there must be a major event. He sizes up Hong Zhiyou and says gently:

"Then you go answer the summons first.

"Come to my place later; I still have some things to ask you."

"Yes!" Hong Zhiyou nods.

"Secretary Hong, Jianfeng thinks very highly of you; your future is boundless. Please look after me in the future, Secretary Hong," Zhang Jing whispers as they walk.

"Last time in Jinhai, thanks to your arrangements, the two Ladies were safe, and I was able to keep my job and my head. I left in a hurry back then and didn't have time to thank you.

"I trouble Secretary Hong to move your steps later after you finish your business so I can fulfill my duties as a host."

Zhang Jing continues.

"I'm afraid that won't work this time.

"I must return to Jinhai immediately after seeing the Chairman and Lady.

"Next time I come to Jingling, I will definitely attend your banquet," Hong Zhiyou whispers with a smile.

"Alright, next time for sure," Zhang Jing nods.

Arriving upstairs.

After layers of security checks, he finally sees the Chairman.

In less than two minutes, the audience ends.

The Chairman says very little.

He gets straight to the point with three matters.

One: The actual combat readiness of Chen Zhangjie of the Garrison Command and the 94th Army; he does not mention a word about corruption or the reselling of supplies within the army.

Two: Raise more money and American aid to support Du Yuming's forces in the Northeast.

Three: Continue to maintain a good relationship with Kirk to ensure that military aid to the Jinhai and Huludao areas is not cut off.

After seeing the Chairman, Zhang Jing later leads Hong Zhiyou to the back to see the Lady.

"Secretary Hong, sit."

The Lady is as graceful and luxurious as ever, and another slightly plump noblewoman is keeping her company.

Although he has never met her.

But from the Lady's respectful attitude toward her, as well as their slightly similar features, Hong Zhiyou knows this is the eldest sister of the Song family, Lady Kong.

"Greetings to both Ladies."

Hong Zhiyou bows in salute.

"Yuxuan and Ziliang often mention you.

"You are indeed a man of talent.

"In the Jinhai matter, you did my Song family a favor; counting it up, you are not an outsider. Sit."

Lady Kong instructs.

Upon hearing her tone, Hong Zhiyou secretly breathes a sigh of relief.

If she had come to hold him accountable, this trip would have been in vain.

Now it seems it is solvable.

"I know all about the Jinhai matter.

"The one in my family just loves to play and is easily bewitched by others, but she is also easy to coax.

"Just coax her and send her back."

The Lady remains silent, and Lady Kong smiles as she states her position.

"I do not know what the Young Lady likes. This subordinate is afraid of misunderstanding and ruining her mood later."

Cold sweat seeps from Hong Zhiyou's forehead as he asks hurriedly.

That's right, the one fighting him in Jinhai is none other than that little demon of the Republic, Lady Kong Lingwei, whom Lady Jiang dotes on excessively.

What does "coax" mean?

This is clearly asking him to bleed money and see the favor through to the end.

Heaven knows how big Lady Kong's appetite is; he can't just hand over the Axe brand he worked so hard to build to her.

"Sister.

"Secretary Hong is an honest man.

"Commander Kirk recommended him to the Chairman just yesterday to establish a Military Aid Management Committee in Jinhai, with Wu Jingzhong as director and Secretary Hong as the liaison.

"Let Lingwei come back early once she has had enough fun.

"Don't make things too difficult for Secretary Hong."

Lady Jiang personally cuts a piece of cake and hands it to Hong Zhiyou while speaking.

"Thank you, Lady," Hong Zhiyou says, feeling immensely grateful.

"By the way, this Secretary Hong is also a man of talent. The new movie 'Plum Blossom' starring Hu Die was written by him, and several of the most popular piano pieces in Jingling are also his handiwork," she adds.

"Oh.

"You are also a great talent?"

Upon hearing this, Lady Kong's expression turns to great joy, and she begins to look Hong Zhiyou up and down.

"Are you on good terms with Kirk?" she asks.

"I cannot say good, but I have been favored by the General, which gives me some convenience in acting and meeting," Hong Zhiyou replies.

"Can you speak foreign languages?" she asks again.

"I can," Hong Zhiyou nods.

"Hmm, a romantic talent, close to the American military, and doing well in the liquor business.

"I think he is more reliable than Hu Zongnan."

Lady Jiang laughs from the side.

The hair on Hong Zhiyou's back stands up.

"Secretary Hong, I will make a phone call over there."

"Just coax her a little."

"You are both young people; you can consider this a case of not knowing each other without fighting, so just make friends with her," Mrs. Kang said, relaxing her stance.

Coax her a little.

Whew!

At least there was a bottom line now.

"Yes."

"Many thanks to both ladies," Hong Zhiyou said, hurriedly expressing his gratitude.

"No rush."

"Eat some cake."

"Do you have any new compositions?" Mrs. Kang asked with a kind smile.

"To tell you the truth, I have been overwhelmed lately and have no heart for composing," Hong Zhiyou said with a slightly embarrassed smile.

"No matter."

"Then wait until you have time to compose."

"That person in my family is indeed difficult to deal with; it just so happens that Song Ziliang is going to Jinmen on business, so I will let him know. You two are familiar with each other, so it should be easier to handle with him there."

Mrs. Kang said.

"With Mr. Song Ziliang there, then everything will be worry-free," Hong Zhiyou said happily.

He stayed for half an hour.

After mooching a piece of cake and a cup of coffee, Hong Zhiyou walked out, sweating profusely.

At first, when the eldest daughter of the Song family heard about his reputation and talent, she was somewhat interested.

But fortunately, he already had Wu Rui and the child.

Of course, these were minor matters; in this day and age, divorce was as simple as drinking water, not to mention he wasn't even married yet.

The key was that he came from the countryside.

Once they heard that, they immediately stopped giving him a pleasant look.

Damn it, what kind of wealthy family; they were so vulgar and realistic.

No wonder Hu Zongnan wanted to "slip away" from the second young lady of the Kong family back then and escaped a disaster.

"Secretary Hong."

"The lady does not like to see outsiders; those who stay for half an hour like you are very rare."

Zhang Jing saw him out and led him toward the No. 2 Official Residence.

"You are too kind," Hong Zhiyou said perfunctorily.

One should not speak carelessly in this kind of place; it was easy to invite trouble.

Dealing with this group of people was indeed very stressful.

No wonder Mao Renfeng and Zheng Jiemin were both envious of Wu Jingzhong sitting in Jinmen, raking in all the profits without any trouble; they were all staring in frustration.

In this place, putting in effort didn't necessarily mean you'd get anything good out of it.

Arriving at the No. 2 Official Residence.

Jiang Jianfeng met him in the study.

When Hong Zhiyou entered, he was looking at a map; compared to the last time in Jinmen, he was visibly much thinner.

"Kirk thinks highly of you; the situation in the Northeast is tight, so you must pay attention to this matter of military aid."

"Sometimes when we urge, it is not necessarily as effective as when you urge."

He turned his head and stared at Hong Zhiyou with piercing eyes.

"This subordinate understands," Hong Zhiyou nodded and said.

"Yu Xuan wants to recommend you to join the Council of the Jiangzhe Chamber of Commerce; what is your opinion?" Jiang Jianfeng asked again.

"I couldn't ask for more," Hong Zhiyou said.

The Jiangzhe Chamber of Commerce was the private territory of the Jiang family; the bureaucratic capitalists and big compradors were all this group of people.

Why couldn't private enterprises develop?

It was because of these people.

There was no way to be self-reliant; business had to be held in the hands of these people.

"I have read your file: a member of the Sino-American Special Training Class, with the rank of Major."

"Do you want to join the Three People's Principles Youth League?"

Jiang Jianfeng asked.

"This subordinate is willing," Hong Zhiyou answered loudly without hesitation.

"Very good."

"I will take care of the procedures for you; I will talk to Station Chief Wu Jingzhong later."

"The Party-State and I need talents like you."

"Sit."

Jiang Jianfeng was also overjoyed.

Now the internal part of the Party-State was severely divided, and the external war situation was very unfavorable; his father's position was already shaky, and whether he could ascend was even harder to say.

Supplementing with fresh blood and elite backbone was a matter that could not be delayed.

Hong Zhiyou could be considered a relatively dazzling young talent recently.

The key was that this person had a good relationship with Kirk.

At this time, if one wanted to fight for power and profit, one absolutely could not bypass the Americans.

Being able to have Hong Zhiyou join was like adding wings to a tiger.

Hong Zhiyou was also very clear about this.

Jiang would not have many years left on the mainland.

But once they reached Wandao, sooner or later, Jiang Jianfeng would have the final say.

Hong Zhiyou certainly would not go there.

But to leave a big thigh unhugged, wouldn't that be stupid?

In case something happened in the future, with this status, being "one of our own" would ultimately make things easier to operate and talk about.

"What is your view on Li Ya?"

After serving tea, Jiang Jianfeng asked.

"This subordinate does not know much about Team Leader Li Ya."

"But there is one thing I am clear about: Li Ya is meticulous in his work and has a heart of absolute loyalty to the Party-State."

Hong Zhiyou answered very professionally.

"I heard that his relationship with you is not very good," Jiang Jianfeng said with a smile.

"He doesn't have a good relationship with anyone."

"But work is work; this subordinate is just speaking the truth."

Hong Zhiyou said.

"Hmm, I see," Jiang Jianfeng's expression relaxed quite a bit, and he stood up.

Jiang Jianfeng then learned about some of the situation in Jinmen, including the construction of the Three People's Principles Youth League branch, corruption in the garrison, and so on.

After staying for more than half an hour, Hong Zhiyou bowed to say goodbye and left the official residence.

He was not deliberately speaking well for Li Ya.

First of all, Lu Qiaoshan had guessed the mind of the Generalissimo this time and was definitely going to take off.

If he stabbed Li Ya in the back at this time, Li Ya might be finished.

In that case, the balance within the station would be broken.

One must know that everyone Lu Qiaoshan killed was Li Ya's person; it was hard enough for these two to have a major conflict again, and a good show was about to begin, so there was no need to miss it.

Furthermore, Jiang Jianfeng had always trusted his subordinates and protected Li Ya.

Speaking ill of Li Ya might not necessarily win his favor.

Because that would be questioning Jiang Jianfeng's ability, vision, and even strategy.

One must know that sending the backbone of the Political Academy to the parade this time was Jiang Jianfeng's instruction.

Damaging Li Ya, wasn't that indirectly slapping Jiang Jianfeng in the face?

The leader's mistakes.

No matter how wrong, one must raise both hands in approval and applause.

The subordinate's achievements.

No matter how perfect, one must still pick bones out of an egg.

It was very absurd, but it was very realistic.

Returning to Jinmen.

Hong Zhiyou met Wu Jingzhong for the first time.

Upon hearing that he had gained the position of Director of the Military Aid Management Committee for nothing, Wu Jingzhong was overjoyed.

Especially regarding Hong Zhiyou joining the Three People's Principles Youth League, he was even more delighted.

With Jiang Jianfeng as a backer, having the confidence to go head-to-head with Mao Renfeng and Zheng Jiemin in the future is undoubtedly a bit stronger.

And joining the Jiang-Zhe Merchants Council is even more extraordinary.

It is equivalent to becoming one of the Chairman's people.

Anyone who wants to covet the fat piece of meat that is Jinhai will have to weigh things carefully.

A triple insurance policy.

"Good, good, good, your trip to Jingling was not in vain.

"When do you plan to go see that little devil?"

Wu Jingzhong asked.

"No rush.

"Let's wait until Long Er buys the liquor license.

"Furthermore, the matter of Philson still needs to ferment; it seems the North American Upper House is going to hold a meeting in two days.

"Let's wait a few more days.

"It just so happens I can catch up on some sleep."

Hong Zhiyou smiled.

It would be a lie to say there was no pressure during this crisis; he hadn't slept for several days.

After all, if the Kong family were to open their mouths like a lion and he couldn't handle the move, he would have no choice but to accept his fate.

This world is just that cruel.

In the eyes of those big shots, someone of his stature is no different from an ant.

It is no exaggeration to say that if it weren't for bribing Kirk.

These people treat the Americans like God.

Madam Kong's "coaxing" would likely force him to hand over everything, and even Wu Jingzhong's Hexi vault would have to be thrown in.

Refuse?

They would play the fool and act crazy, and they really might just shoot you dead.

Of course, if it really came to a point of mutual destruction, Hong Zhiyou would not just stand there and be captured; he would at least have Zhou Yan, Sun Cheng, and the others fire a few shots to test them.

At worst, he would just give up this bright future and go into exile overseas.

Two days later, 8: 7 PM.

French Club.

Powell signed his name with a flourish and handed the contract to Lin Sufang:

"Miss Lin, Cherry Brand is yours from now on."

As he spoke, he tapped his finger on the beautifully packaged high-end wine bottle on the table.

"Thank you, Mr. Powell," Lin Sufang replied in fluent English.

"I wonder, Mr. Powell, how do you think my liquor compares to Hong Zhiyou's Axe Brand?" she asked again.

"Very perfect.

"I wish you success."

Powell shook hands with her and rose to leave.

"Sir, do you really think highly of this Miss Lin?" Jack followed him out and asked with a frown.

"NO.

"What I think highly of is money.

"Two hundred thousand US dollars, it would be a waste not to take it.

"In my opinion, she cannot outsell Hong; the liquor is indeed good, but her costs are too high.

"Since both are brands under Hennessy, those rich people aren't fools, so why would they buy liquor that tastes about the same but costs twenty percent more?" Powell said as he walked.

"She could lower the price," Jack said.

"Then she would die even faster.

"Hong's distillery operations are already very mature, with enough cash flow to profit.

"I don't know if Miss Lin has ever run a distillery, but you must know that distillery management requires huge costs for promotion, packaging, and marketing.

"Before opening up sales and turning a profit, if she rashly starts a price war, once the capital chain fails to keep up, she will collapse very quickly.

"At that time, she will lose everything."

Powell said.

"Then isn't she on a dead-end road?" Jack said.

"Not necessarily; find a bigger shareholder, or join forces with Hong to open up another brand," Powell thought for a moment and said.

"That seems unlikely; she is here specifically to go head-to-head with Hong," Jack said.

"Then she only has... a dead-end road.

"Remember, business, especially big business, is not something everyone can do.

"It requires strength, timing, and luck.

"Clearly, this Miss Lin picked the wrong opponent; her timing and luck are both not very good.

"I know Hong.

"She cannot beat him.

"You need to keep your eyes peeled."

Powell pointed at him, finished speaking, and ducked into the car.

"Whew!"

Jack breathed a secret sigh of relief.

He was currently in a "honeymoon period" with Hong Zhiyou, making a killing selling Axe Brand.

But these past few days, Lin Sufang had been spending money to poach him.

The price offered was three times that of Hong's.

Fortunately, he wasn't tempted; that would be going down the wrong path.

"Department Chief Lu, this is the contract; take a look, is there any problem?

"According to the brand valuation, your investment of eighty thousand US dollars converts to a ten percent stake."

With the foreigner gone, Lin Sufang took out the contract and said.

"Why only ten percent?" Lu Qiaoshan frowned and said.

"Ten percent is already an over-allocation.

"Subsequent expansion of production lines, maintaining distillery operations, relations with the Americans, and so on all require huge investments.

"Do you think eighty thousand US dollars is a lot?

"Also, you have to personally handle the marketing for the municipal government, the garrison, and the garrison headquarters.

"In addition, this includes security work and so on.

"Since it is a partnership, you as a shareholder have to do something, don't you?"

Lin Sufang sneered.

"So many clauses?" Lu Qiaoshan flipped through the contract and frowned.

"You can also choose not to do it.

"Let's be clear, the deal was decided by that person, and the large-scale investment in the later stages is also from her.

"If you don't want to do it, it's not too late to withdraw now.

"However, you'll have to ask that person for the money you invested," Lin Sufang said.

"You!

"Why didn't you make it clear sooner!"

Lu Qiaoshan was already feeling some regret.

In the past, when he made money with Hong Zhiyou, all he had to do was invest the money and wait for the dividends.

So he was used to that way of doing business.

Who knew that when it came to Lin Sufang, there would be so many strings attached.

Now it was too late; the money was thrown in and couldn't be taken back.

Asking him to go find that person for the money.

Who knows, if that person has a fit and shoots him dead, he'd have no ghost to complain to.

"Alright.

"Just be content; the fact that she's letting you play along is enough to mean your ancestors' graves are smoking with good fortune."

Long Er stood to the side, chin tilted, laughing in a sarcastic tone.

Lu Qiaoshan had no way to refute; he glanced at Lin Sufang and urged:

"Isn't General Philson coming to sign?

"It's already past the time, where is he?"

"I'll go urge him," Lin Sufang rose, wiggling her hips as she went to the telephone.

Soon, she dialed the number.

After a few brief words, she hung up the phone and walked back with a furrowed brow.

"What is it?" Lu Qiao asked.

"General Philson took a boat to Qingdao an hour ago," Lin Sufang said.

"Nothing will go wrong, will it?"

"The newspapers these past few days have been attacking the American military, especially regarding the shooting of students by the Department Chief, and now the domestic and international public opinion is very unfavorable to the National Government and the American military.

"There are protests and demonstrations in Jinan, Beiping, Changchun, and other places.

"It is said that even in North America, Britain, and other countries, some pro-Red media are hyping it up extensively."

Long Er said.

"Isn't it just killing a few students?

"Let them make a scene if they want; they can't turn the world upside down.

"Philson has connections in North America and is a trusted subordinate of Kirk.

"He is a commander after all; this trivial matter shouldn't be enough to replace the commander-in-chief, right?"

Lu Qiao curled his lips and said disdainfully.

Not long after he finished speaking, the phone rang.

Lin Sufang got up to answer it.

As soon as she finished, this woman, who was always calm and cold, screamed:

"It's bad.

"It's terrible."

"Miss Lin, what happened?" Lu Qiao stood up in shock.

"Anderson just called to say that while General Philson was on his way to Qingdao by boat, the ship encountered a storm and the General fell into the sea.

"The Marine Corps is organizing a search and rescue, but I'm afraid the outlook is grim!"

(End of this chapter)