Chapter 465: Chapter 433 First Meeting with Crown Prince Shen_1
 

As he prepared to meet with Secretary Mu, Nie Zhenbang became serious. This was his first battle at work in the Youth League Central Committee, and Secretary Mu was his first direct superior. There was a certain importance and respect given to this relationship in the bureaucratic system, often likened to that between a student and their enlightened mentor.

Of course, there was a distinction. Not just anyone would have a connection with Secretary Mu, as a high-ranking official at the provincial and ministerial levels, he wouldn’t know just anyone either.

Nie Zhenbang was different. The Youth Civilization Number left a profound impression on Secretary Mu, it was Nie Zhenbang’s capital, the reason he was qualified enough to be paying this visit.

However, to visit someone, a gift was compulsory. The Chinese culture emphasized the principles of propriety, justice, integrity and honor, reciprocation of courtesies. The terms “etiquette country” and many others, confirm that Huaxia is a country that pays great attention to etiquette.

Barehanded visits would not do. It would imply a disregard for the host. On the other hand, Nie Zhenbang was having difficulty in choosing what gift to bring. Cigarettes or alcohol? Even if they were exclusive products, for someone like Secretary Mu, obtaining them wouldn’t be an issue. Moreover, giving these items as gifts would be quite common.

How about jewelry or precious gems? Immediately dismissing the idea, Nie Zhenbang thought it was also too common, carrying the suspicion of a bribe. At Secretary Mu’s level, material possessions were external things, giving these as gifts would not only prevent any conversation, but he might also be sent away. Moreover, it would also leave a poor impression, making it counterintuitive.

An elegant item? Tea? Ancient paintings, perhaps? These could be distinguished gifts, but good tea leaves are hard to find. A small red robe could be given, but it would seem insincere, like presenting Buddha with borrowed flowers. Antique calligraphy and paintings? It would be hard to find an excellent piece in a short time. Buying them from outside? That could also pose a risk of bribery.

After much consideration, Nie Zhenbang finally decided to give a gift that aligned with Secretary Mu’s taste, yet wasn’t overly valuable.

Finding Secretary Mu’s phone number and address would not be an easy task for outsiders, but for Nie Zhenbang it was simple. At present, Secretary Mu, as the first secretary of the Youth League Central Committee, also held the position of dean at the Youth Politics Institute. He resided on the Qingzheng campus.

After calling and informing Secretary Mu of his visit, the latter was quite delighted to hear from Nie Zhenbang. Nie Zhenbang was a prominent figure who emerged from the Youth League Committee after the Youth Civilization Number project, he was practically a close subordinate of Secretary Mu. Secretary Mu had always been attentive to Nie Zhenbang’s career, especially his sustainable development strategy and investment attraction policies in New Li City. These actions had deeply satisfied Secretary Mu, even giving him a sense of great benefit.

At Secretary Mu’s level, he viewed issues from a central perspective, and many things had a resonant and enlightening effect on him.

Therefore, he valued Nie Zhenbang and even personally waited for him at home at the arranged time for the visit. This was a significant show of respect for Nie Zhenbang.

Upon seeing the item Nie Zhenbang was carrying, Secretary Mu frowned and said sternly: “Nie, you’re now resorting to the local technique of gift-giving. This practice doesn’t work here. Whatever you’ve brought, you’ll have to take back.”

At this, Nie Zhenbang laughed and replied: “Secretary Mu, you misunderstand. This isn’t a gift, but rather photocopies of articles by the master of classical studies, Mr. Ji. Considering your interest in classical studies and your busy schedule preventing you from keeping up, I took the liberty of bringing these.”

Secretary Mu was well-educated, but a much less known aspect was that he used to be a disciple of the renowned scholar of classical studies, Mr. Mu Cheng. He possessed a profound foundation in classical studies.

Upon hearing Nie Zhenbang’s words, Mu Dingjian showed a satisfied and appreciative expression. He patted Nie Zhenbang’s shoulder and said: ”You are thoughtful, Nie. Come in and sit.”

Once they were seated on the sofa, Mu Dingjian personally served tea to Nie Zhenbang, then sat down, smiling: ”Zhenbang, I’ve been closely following your work achievements. The sustainable development strategy in New Li City, and your efforts around environmental protection, have been excellent. Three years after you left New Li City, the city’s economic development remains high. While the local team deserves credit, your groundwork is also a significant part of this success.”

After a brief pause, Mu Dingjian started praising him about the Eastern Development Forum and handling of the American factory in Liangxi City. As for the work on the Disciplinary Committee, Mu Dingjian deliberately overlooked it.

As a senior official, Mu Dingjian was clear about many things. Going to the Disciplinary Committee had its benefits, but it might have a significant impact on Nie Zhenbang’s future.

After saying all this, Mu Dingjian changed the topic: ”Zhenbang, some things require leaving some space. Chinese people value moderation and diplomacy. The principle of too rigid leads to easy damage, you should understand. Anything, you need to grasp the right degree. Even in maintaining unity and stability, there is such a thing as too much.”

This was Mu Dingjian’s advice to Nie Zhenbang. Politics is all about balance. Of course, suppressing rivals is a way to highlight oneself, but this is actually the most undesirable approach. In the process of suppressing others, it’s inevitable to leave the leadership with a sense of being overly zealous. This may make them wonder if promoting you could result in them becoming your next target or stepping stone.

If we look at the national leaders who took office after Elder Nan, all of them practiced restraint and modesty. They were low-key and moderate in their actions, reaching the pinnacle of such an approach. Secretary General President Yuan, for example, kept a low profile before becoming the Secretary General and before entering the central government.

Similarly, Crown Prince Shen Xiuchao also followed this approach. Even the future Crown Prince followed suit. They all understand that showing off can lead to attracting unnecessary attention.

With these comparisons in mind, Nie Zhenbang realized the advantages of being low-key. He humbly acknowledged, “Elder Leader, you’re right. I was immature in dealing with some matters. I’d need more of your guidance in the future.”

Hearing this, Mu Dingjian was very satisfied. He saw great potential in Nie Zhenbang. Given his family background and personal abilities, he believed that with some guidance, Nie Zhenbang had a promising future. For himself, developing such a relationship was also a good deed.

Mu Dingjian laughed and responded, “Zhenbang, what I’m saying is this: strive for unity, be humble. Don’t abandon your principles. Stick to what must be adhered to. Do not discard the basic principles of party discipline. That’s what I call being high-profile in actions. As the saying goes, with justice on your side, one can go anywhere; without it, you can hardly take a step. As long as you hold onto the truth, everything else is a paper tiger.”

Hearing this, Nie Zhenbang felt reassured. The meaning of Mu Dingjian’s words was very clear: as long as he stood on the side of reason, Mu Dingjian would not ignore him. Given the relationship between Mu Dingjian and Shen Xiuchao, it also meant that the future Secretary General would look after him too. This was a significant advantage.

From there, the conversation between the two became more harmonious. Nie Zhenbang learned a great deal about political wisdom from Mu Dingjian.

Just as Nie Zhenbang was preparing to leave, Mu Dingjian looked at his wristwatch and said to him, “It’s already three in the afternoon. This is a good opportunity for me to introduce you to someone.”

At these words, Nie Zhenbang’s heart pounded. Could Mu Dingjian mean to introduce him to Shen Xiuchao?

To understand, Shen Xiuchao was presently a member of Elder Nan’s faction, part of his direct lineage. With Elder Nan’s support, his children became incapable. Shen Xiuchao is now the real power holder of the Nan faction. Even Mu Dingjian was part of this. To receive Shen Xiuchao’s recognition would be hugely beneficial for his future.

Under Mu Dingjian’s lead, the black Mercedes with a military plate set off, heading straight in the direction Nie Zhenbang anticipated.

After passing several checkpoints and security checks, they finally arrived at the heart of the Forbidden City. Nie Zhenbang was no stranger to this place. His grandfather had formerly worked and lived here, and Nie Zhenbang, being family, had also lived here.

At the entrance of the Huayun Pavilion, a middle-aged man standing there greeted them with a smile, “Secretary Mu, the leader is waiting for you.”

Mu Dingjian introduced him with a smile, “Zhenbang, this is Huang Yunshan, the leader’s first secretary. He’s a bit younger than your father, you can address him as Uncle Huang.”

Nie Zhenbang didn’t dare to be disrespectful. As a close confidante of the Crown Prince, he respectfully greeted: “Uncle Huang.”

Huang Yunshan responded with a smile, “Indeed a tiger’s son from a military family. Governor Guowei has a capable successor. If you need any help in the future, feel free to call me.”

This was where Huang Yunshan excelled as a people person. The heir of the Nie family, a focus of cultivation, and nephew of Nie Guodong and son of Governor Guowei. Now, approved by Mu Dingjian and about to be introduced to the leader. Naturally, it was important to maintain good relations with such people. Huang Yunshan was well-versed in extending such common courtesies.

As they entered the room with Mu Dingjian, Shen Xiuchao walked out. Although his appearance was just as Nie Zhenbang remembered from his past life—a medium-built man with silver-framed glasses, personable, and elegant—he couldn’t help but feel excited. After all, he was facing the future Secretary General of Huaxia. (To be continued. If you enjoy this work, please come to qidian.com to vote for it. Your support is my greatest motivation.)