With the financial matter settled, it was time to discuss the next step: Yu Feng's reputation. This was a topic he couldn't bring up himself, so it fell to Nan Sheng to mention it.
She understood perfectly that as the head of the Discipline Inspection Commission, if Qiao Yan could emphasize certain points in his work report, it would have a decisive impact on the subsequent handling of Yu Feng's case.
"Director Qiao, you must be well aware of County Head Yu's character. He was truly implicated by his child; his personal integrity and work capability are beyond reproach."
Seeing Qiao Yan nod in agreement, Nan Sheng immediately made her request. "County Head Yu hopes for Yu Ping to be dealt with strictly, and he also hopes you can convey his stance to the higher-ups."
Qiao Yan frowned. Wasn't this asking him to implicitly speak well of County Head Yu? That wouldn't do; it went against his work principles.
"Comrade, please don't speak carelessly. Do you understand the work procedures of the Discipline Inspection Commission? We must be fair and impartial, and cannot include subjective, biased statements."
Nan Sheng raised an eyebrow. The work procedures of the Discipline Inspection Commission? No one understood them better than she did.
"My apologies, I haven't introduced myself yet. I am Nan Sheng, the head of the Discipline Inspection Commission for Qingjiang County, Rongcheng City. It's a pleasure to meet you, Director Qiao!"
Qiao Yan: "..."
Same rank? And so young?
Is that right???
And why does that name sound so familiar!
Qiao Yan thought carefully and suddenly remembered something. He stood up in shock, looking at Nan Sheng with a skeptical gaze. "You... before becoming the Discipline Inspection Commission head, which department did you work in?"
Nan Sheng replied casually, "I used to work in the Revolutionary Committee."
"Could it be... in Sanwei Town?" Qiao Yan's mind was already confirming her identity.
"Yes, why? What about it?"
Qiao Yan took a deep breath. What about it?
Wasn't this the legendary figure the leaders had repeatedly mentioned in meetings? The one who single-handedly shook up the Revolutionary Committee! The fact that the Discipline Inspection Commission now held such significant authority was also connected to her!
Remembering his earlier attitude, Qiao Yan immediately bowed slightly in apology. "Director Nan, I've long heard of your reputation. My attitude just now was improper, please don't take it to heart."
If it were anyone else, Qiao Yan wouldn't have bothered with the courtesy. But Nan Sheng, who had managed to topple the Revolutionary Committee, commanded his genuine respect, and he lowered his posture considerably.
"Director Nan, what is your relationship with County Head Yu?"
"You might not be aware, but I was transferred from Huaishan Town. I used to work as a clerk under County Head Yu, and we went through the difficult times of the drought together."
Only then did Qiao Yan realize that Nan Sheng was from Huaishan County, and the two had a former superior-subordinate relationship. County Head Yu's luck was so good he felt a twinge of jealousy.
Yu Feng had been keeping his head turned towards the window. He didn't fully understand why Qiao Yan was so deferential to Nan Sheng, but he wasn't foolish; he knew the current situation was favorable for him, and staying silent was the best course.
Seeing Qiao Yan's changed attitude, Nan Sheng adjusted her own approach, her tone becoming much warmer.
"Now, Director Qiao, let's not put it that way. You've worked in the county for so long, you're very clear about County Head Yu's capabilities. He saved the entire county's population back then. Since becoming county head, he has been diligent and devoted in serving the people. Could you bear to see such a good official implicated? Would any replacement care for the people as much as he does!
Furthermore, after Yu Ping was arrested, County Head Yu never interfered, which is proof enough of his character. The fault lies solely with Yu Ping; dealing with him is sufficient. Speaking a fair word for County Head Yu is what truly upholds justice!"
Qiao Yan thought to himself, the facts were indeed as stated, but such a major incident had ultimately stemmed from County Head Yu. It wasn't realistic to expect him to bear no responsibility at all.
"Alright, Director Nan, I can write a detailed report of the entire incident as you request. However, I cannot guarantee how the leadership will decide on the disposition."
He had compromised. Director Nan dared to take on the Revolutionary Committee; he was just a small department head, what leverage did he have to oppose her? Fortunately, Director Nan wasn't asking him to exonerate Yu Ping, so he could still maintain his bottom line.
After leaving the county government, Yu Feng was full of admiration. "I've always said you are my benefactor, and now I see I was absolutely right!"
Nan Sheng said, "Uncle Yu, I could tell Director Qiao is a good comrade. It's also because your usual work has been solid. Otherwise, even if I had some influence, he wouldn't have agreed."
Yu Feng looked ashamed. "No need to comfort me. Don't worry, whatever the leaders decide, I can accept it. Even if I'm demoted to a clerk, I'll accept it."
Nan Sheng replied, "It won't come to that, but a demotion is certain. You need to be mentally prepared for that."
Back at the Yu residence, the whole family watched them with nervous expressions. However, both were people who didn't easily show their emotions, so it was hard to tell the outcome immediately.
Mrs. Yu asked, "Why aren't you two saying anything? Was it unsuccessful?"
Yu Feng smiled. "There's hope. Now we wait for news. You have no idea, Director Nan's reputation is incredibly effective. From now on, we all have someone to rely on!"
Nan Sheng's family stayed in the county town for another night before heading home the next day. To Nan Sheng's delight, Xiao Yi and Shitou had also come.
They had arrived the night before last and had been staying nearby. Knowing Nan Sheng would be in the county town an extra day, they had stayed another night without a second thought.
"Sister Nan! Long time no see!"
"Sister Nan! You're finally back!"
Nan Sheng was also happy to see them. "I thought I'd have to wait until we got back to town to see you guys. What a wonderful surprise! It's been too long!"
After the heat died down, Xiao Yi had started grain speculation again with his brothers, along with other scarce goods. Only Nan Sheng's return could make him take a few days off from his busy schedule.
With them there, the bicycles were sufficient. Xiao Yi carried Sizhe, Shitou carried Siqi, Mingli let Lin Han ride his bicycle while he shared one with Yu Luotong.
When they reached the town, the group escorted them back to Xiangyang Village. The Lin family was waiting at the village entrance: Lin Guozheng and his wife, Eldest Brother Lin and his wife with their two sons, Third Brother Lin, and the village chief were all there.
Lin Han was somewhat stunned by the sight. Did his homecomings warrant such a grand reception now?
Lin Guozheng and his wife hurried forward in his direction. Lin Han had just called out, "Dad! Mom! We're back."
Then the couple simply nodded at him and immediately began fussing over Nan Sheng and the two children. "You must be frozen! The food is all ready, the kang bed is nice and warm, let's hurry home!"
Fortunately, Eldest Brother Lin and Third Brother Lin still had eyes for their brother Lin Han, saving him from too much awkwardness. Xiao Yi and Shitou, who had intended to leave, were also swept along as the large crowd moved towards Lin Guozheng's house.
Along the way, villagers they encountered greeted Nan Sheng and her husband warmly.
Thanks to Third Brother Lin's wife, everyone now knew that Lin Han was a regimental commander and Nan Sheng was the head of the Discipline Inspection Commission. With such an accomplished family, who wouldn't want to be on good terms?
Just in case they needed a favor someday...
