Reborn as a Noble's Son

Having said that, he deliberately addressed Huang Xuyang: “Xuyang, when Minister Sun visits in the future, there’s no need to announce him. Let him come straight in.”

Although aware that this was merely a polite gesture, Sun Minghao still appreciated the respect from Nie Zhenbang and responded with a smile: “Mayor Nie, you’re too kind. I apologize for the intrusion.”

Nie Zhenbang welcomes Sun Minghao to his inner office, serving him a cup of premium Longjing tea and placing a pack of Panda cigarettes on the table. He didn’t return to his desk but sat down on the sofa, then said with a smile, “Minister Sun’s visit brings honor to my humble office. May I ask the purpose of your visit?”

Having asked the question, Nie Zhenbang adopted a casual demeanor, and looked at Sun Minghao. His directness bypassed conventional courtesies, circling right to the point, a strategy of his.

Sun Minghao, having a similar character to him, must also have a similar way of handling things, thus his direct approach. Sure enough, Sun Minghao listened without showing any trace of impatience or irritation, but instead a calm expression as if everything was as it should be.

Seeing this, Nie Zhenbang was pleased, confirming that his deductions were correct. Being open-hearted would likely bring the two closer, which would help him draw Sun Minghao to his side. Having Sun Minghao, the Organization Minister, on his side would greatly benefit his future plans and work.

At this moment, Sun Minghao brewed his thoughts and said with a slight smile, “Actually, there’s nothing in particular. As I’m new here, I’m still familiarizing myself with the situation. Certain matters are yet to be sorted out, so I thought I’d drop by the government office while I’m touring around.”

Hearing this, Nie Zhenbang fell into thought. Sun Minghao indeed adopted a cautious attitude. His situation seemed not so favorable, for typically the entire Organization Department was Fan Changsheng’s domain. Now the Provincial Party Committee had parachuted in a new Organization Minister, Sun Minghao, who happened to be Organization Minister Yang Xingan’s son-in-law. However, personal relations wouldn’t help here. If it were an insignificant matter, Fan Changsheng might step back to give some face to Yang Xingan. But when it affected the promotion and dismissal of staff, a crucial card in the hands of the Party Secretary, Fan Changsheng would not yield.

Not only would Fan Changsheng not back down, Deputy Secretary Zhu Zhuozhen certainly wouldn’t either. With them both having placed trusted aides in the Organization Department, Sun Minghao would certainly find it hard, even if he wasn’t entirely marginalized. His statement about ‘things not yet in order’ hinted at his lack of control over the Organization Department. His motive for visiting today was rather straightforward – to cultivate relationships.

Sun Minghao hoped to join forces with Nie to counter the pressure from Fan Changsheng and Zhu Zhuozhen, if not to gain complete control of the Organization Department, at least to share some of its power.

Of course, this was an offer Nie couldn’t refuse. Having Sun Minghao assist in the Organization Department would undoubtedly be beneficial.

Looking at Sun Minghao, who still maintained a calm demeanor, Nie Zhenbang was somewhat astounded. Sun might seem like a schoolteacher on the outside, but he was no simple character.

“Minister Sun, you’re being too modest. Wouldn’t the work of the Organization Department be easy for you? However, I do have a plan I’d like to discuss with you. If the plan can be implemented, it could aid in your work,” Nie Zhenbang said after flattering Sun Minghao, then pitched his plan.

On the surface, Nie Zhenbang seemed completely at ease. He had been contemplating this plan to implement in Liangxi City for quite some time but never had the chance to push it forward. Now, with Sun Minghao’s arrival and involvement from the Organization Department, the plan could surely be implemented with double the results.

Furthermore, Nie Zhenbang wasn’t worried about Sun Minghao declining the plan. At this point, Sun Minghao stood alone, and although he had Yang Xingan’s support, he couldn’t always rely on his in-laws for everything. If Sun Minghao wanted to get a foothold, he would need power in the Organization Department, if not all, at least enough to make his words count. Whether one plan, two plans, or three, as long as it benefited him, Sun Minghao would naturally agree.