Chapter 5

Seeing the young man quickly running upstairs, Wang Yilin was certain that there were still guests above. Shi Lengxing had definitely instructed that no one should be seen, but of course, the Prime Minister was an exception. From an administrative perspective, Wang Yilin was indeed his superior.

Is Shi Gengbiao your nephew? That would be terrible, like a flood washing away the Dragon King's temple! Wang Yilin's current expression is one of both surprise and pride, which truly leaves Shi Lengxing feeling "cold-hearted".

"Azh, you all wait outside, Xiao Wang will come in with me!" Wang Yilin glanced at the ordinary small building, tidied his clothes a bit, organized his thoughts, and then pushed open the small gate to the garden, walking in with Wang Mingquan.

What exactly is going on? The Prime Minister doesn't need to beat around the bush in front of me! Shi Lingxing can no longer take charge, and Wang Yilin's expression suggests that the situation is quite serious.

Shi Lengxing was originally prepared to sit down, but suddenly froze in mid-air upon seeing Wang Yilin getting ready to take his leave. He quickly said, "The matter regarding Wuzhou? Let's go discuss it upstairs!"

Oh, is it very serious? My nephew Shi Gengbiao happens to be in the Guangzhou Military Region. Is there anything I can do to help?" Shi Lengxing knew that Wang Yilin was looking for trouble, but since the matter had not been made clear, he was also unaware of what Shi Gengbiao had been doing outside, so he could only tentatively ask.

Wang Mingquan nodded and immediately used the encrypted phone in the car to notify Wen Haitao. The Prime Minister's arrangement is quite good, and judging by the Prime Minister's demeanor, he also understands the importance of priorities

Then I would be showing off my skills in front of an expert! Wang Yilin first expressed some politeness, saying, "I have already thought of a 'solution'," and then he continued, "As you know, Old Zhao is currently focused on military reform. He is worried about not having a current example, so he is eager to find evidence to prove that the reforms he proposed must be implemented. Therefore, as long as we satisfy him, I believe Old Zhao will not seek trouble with the younger generation, right?

Then we shall take our leave. By the time the Standing Committee meeting is held tomorrow, Minister Shi's illness should have recovered, right? After receiving a confirmation from Shi Lengxing, Wang Yilin left with Wang Mingquan.

Wang Yilin did not sit down and said with a serious expression: "Minister Shi, I originally wanted to discuss matters regarding Wuzhou with you, but it seems that your health is not well, so there is no need to discuss it now"

"Alright, Premier Wang, what are your conditions? Let us speak frankly without any hidden meanings; let us be clear with each other!" Shi Lengxing could no longer sit still. Shi Gengbiao was his favorite nephew, and he had been focusing on nurturing him, allowing him to become a colonel in his early thirties. However, the results of his efforts did not seem to be good.

Early the next morning, Wang Yilin was once again seated in the office. In fact, he had not gone home at all; he had worked throughout the night in the office, only sleeping for four hours on the single bed next door when he was at his most exhausted. When Wang Yilin finished his breakfast and drank the first cup of coffee brewed for him by the duty secretary, Wang Mingquan walked in with a document.

"Oh! You go ahead and arrange the ministerial meeting, I will be there shortly!" Wang Yilin said as he picked up the document and began to flip through it. Just as Wang Mingquan turned around and had not yet exited the office, he heard the Prime Minister calling him: "Xiao Wang, go cancel today's ministerial meeting, and prepare the car for me right away!"

"Prime Minister, this is what you asked me to look into yesterday. Please take a look!" Wang Mingquan said, placing the document he held on Wang Yilin's desk, his expression a bit angry yet tinged with a hint of happiness.

Alright, then I still need the Prime Minister to guide me on how to prevent Lao Zhao from pursuing the matter further. Due to Wang Yilin's exceptional acting skills, Shi Lengxing did not notice any discrepancies; perhaps Shi Lengxing was also flustered by concern and failed to recognize the underlying issues.

"I understand, Premier Wang, just say it plainly!" Shi Lengxing's words startled Wang Yilin, who thought he had been seen through by Shi Lengxing. However, Shi Lengxing did not notice the subtle change in Wang Yilin's expression and continued, "If Old Zhao is willing to let Shi Gengbiao go, I can support his reform plan, which would be beneficial for everyone!"

Wang Yilin held the document in his hand, hesitated for a moment, and then placed it on the desk. After he finished dressing, he glanced at the document on the table, still feeling a bit uneasy, and locked it in the safe before finally setting out. Xiao Wang was already waiting for him outside. Outside the government office building, two bodyguards dispatched from Zhongnanhai were standing by the bulletproof Hongqi sedan. Upon seeing Wang Yilin come out, one of them quickly stepped forward to block most of Wang Yilin's figure, while the other swiftly opened the rear door, ran to the driver's side, opened the door, and climbed in. After Wang Yilin got into the car, the Hongqi quickly started and drove out of the government compound

"Hehe, it seems that Minister Shi is quite nervous. In fact, it's nothing serious; it's just that a local military officer colluded with local officials to engage in some minor disturbances affecting the residents. I originally intended to hand this matter over to the Discipline Inspection Commission for handling, but considering it involves military affairs, I came to ask for Minister Shi's opinion." Wang Yilin said, as he patted himself down a few times, his expression turning quite disappointed. He awkwardly added, "I'm sorry, I actually forgot to bring that investigation document with me. Xiao Wang, did you bring it?" He patted himself down a few times, his expression turning quite disappointed. He awkwardly added, "I'm sorry, I actually forgot to bring that investigation document with me. Xiao Wang, did you bring it?"

Wang Mingquan smiled, his hand already reaching into the pocket of his trousers. He carried with him a shorthand computer that he had specially developed. This device, of his own design, allowed for discreet note-taking, capable of recording at least 300 characters per minute, which was nearly equivalent to the speed of speech

Now, Shi Lengxing is in a hurry to notify his nephew to hide first and return home only after things have calmed down. Meanwhile, Wang Yilin is also eager to inform Lao Zhao, as having Lao Zhao prepared with the right words is crucial; otherwise, it would be problematic if Shi Lengxing discovers the true reason behind the situation. Additionally, he needs to find He Yongxing to prepare for a new Standing Committee meeting. The matter concerning Shi Gengbiao is merely a pretext for Wang Yilin, easily seen through, so it is imperative to convene the Standing Committee meeting as soon as possible. The sooner they can pass Lao Zhao's military reform plan, the better, as prolonged delays could lead to unforeseen complications. Otherwise, if Shi Lengxing realizes the true reason, it would be difficult to manage. Furthermore, he must seek out He Yongxing to prepare for the new Standing Committee meeting, as the issue with Shi Gengbiao serves as Wang Yilin's cover, which can be easily pierced, thus necessitating the prompt convening of the Standing Committee meeting. The earlier they can approve Lao Zhao's military reform plan, the better, considering that prolonged nights can lead to more dreams.

Wang Yilin couldn't help but sneer inwardly, thinking that he was just making excuses not to attend, yet he even blamed me. However, he said, "I heard that Minister Shi is ill. You are a pillar of the nation, so as your superior, I naturally should come to visit you!"

The young man led Wang Yilin and the others to the living room on the first floor, arranged for them to sit down, and after pouring tea for the two of them, said: "Uncle Wang, please sit here, I will go upstairs to call Uncle down!"

This... I will not hide it from Minister Shi any longer. I have just learned that an incident has occurred in Wuzhou involving collusion between the official army and the oppression of local citizens. Old Zhao has already sent someone to investigate this matter, but judging by the local people's reactions, the nature of the entire situation is quite serious. I never expected that Shi Gengbiao was actually a relative of Minister Shi; this complicates matters! Wang Yilin seems to be in a difficult position, but in reality, he is openly threatening Shi Lengxing.

Oh, I only found out last night as well. You know, Lao Zhao does not need my approval for anything he does. I heard that they sent someone over to investigate yesterday afternoon. " Wang Yilin said淡淡地, noticing the change in Shi Lengxing's expression, he knew the time was right, and continued, "Moreover, Lao Zhao is now pushing for military reform. If we cannot catch a typical case, it will indeed be difficult to handle, won't it?

"Azh, go to Shilengxing's house; he should have taken sick leave these days!" After Wang Yilin said this to Liu Zhi, the driver and bodyguard in front, he pulled up the partition.

Wang Mingquan said nothing further; he was the Prime Minister's personal secretary. Whatever the Prime Minister knew, he knew as well, even down to how often the Prime Minister bathed and what kind of underwear he wore from www.hetushu.com. Therefore, he could understand the Prime Minister's actions. If he lacked even this level of political awareness, it would indeed be a great joke.

After Wang Yilin took a sip of tea, he put down the teacup and quietly said to Wang Mingquan, "Get ready to take notes, I will test your memory soon!"

"Prime Minister Wang, isn't there a cabinet meeting today? How do you have time to come here?" Shi Lengxing displayed a nonchalant demeanor, entirely embodying the manner of official interactions.

On the left side of the garden, there is a doghouse. The large shepherd dog inside, upon seeing a stranger enter, barked twice with a "Woof Woof" and was about to pounce, but was restrained by a collar around its neck, which was also tethered to a chain attached to a wooden post nearby. Wang Yilin hesitated for a moment; before he could step into the building, the door had already been opened by someone.

"No need, I can go in by myself. Old Shi is not in good health, so he shouldn't move around too much!" Wang Yilin said as he had already grabbed the young man and walked in with a smile. He was also laughing inside, but it was a cold laugh. Shi Lengxing was just fine during yesterday's meeting, yet he called in sick early this morning. It must be because of yesterday's meeting, hiding at home to discuss with his few close friends how to deal with Old Zhao's military reform plan.

A slight chill in the air has also caused the Prime Minister some concern; he truly is a person of immense responsibilities. Shi Lingxing said this as he walked over to the sofa and continued to coldly inquire, "I wonder what important matter brings the Prime Minister to visit us?"

Half an hour later, the car stopped outside the residential compound in the western part of the city, specifically arranged for ministerial officials. Upon seeing the Prime Minister's official vehicle, the guard at the gate conducted a brief inspection of the political opinions handed over by the bodyguard before granting access

"Sit down, Xiaoming, go make a cup of Bi Feng that your brother brought back last time for Uncle Wang!" Shi Lengxing's attitude now had to be much more enthusiastic. After his nephew went out, he said to Wang Yilin, who was already sitting across the desk: "What happened in Wuzhou that even the Prime Minister had to personally inquire about it!"

"Prime Minister, there are still many important matters to discuss in today's cabinet meeting. Is it really appropriate for us to leave like this?" Although Wang Mingquan knew that he could not change the Prime Minister's decision, it was his duty to remind the Prime Minister at all times, and he could not refrain from speaking.

Wang Mingquan nodded with a smile and quickly left the Prime Minister's office. He had long anticipated the Prime Minister's reaction, and the car was already prepared for the Prime Minister. However, he did not expect that the Prime Minister would even cancel the ministerial meeting for this matter

Wang www.hetushu.com.com shook his head and did not speak, feeling even more admiration for the Prime Minister. The Prime Minister truly has a knack for political maneuvering. The materials he obtained were merely an investigation report, which had little actual legal effect and could not serve as evidence. However, now that the Prime Minister has said this, it seems as if they already possess sufficient evidence. Moreover, this statement was made by the Prime Minister himself, who is always cautious in his dealings. Even if Shi Lingxing were to doubt it, he would likely have to believe it.

"Well, but..." Wang Yilin had just had a cup of coffee, and at that moment, he felt invigorated. After a brief pause, he said, "Alright, please inform Wen Haitao to help me chair the meeting, and also ask Xiao Zhang to take the minutes!"

"Prime Minister, is it a bit too impulsive for us to go directly to their door like this?" Wang Mingquan asked cautiously, wondering if the Prime Minister was not afraid of being met with a cold reception given the haste of their visit

This is called striking while the iron is hot. You saw the meeting yesterday afternoon. If we cannot bring a member of the Standing Committee over, Old Zhao's reform plan will not pass. If it goes to the expanded meeting of the Standing Committee, there will be even more variables. Therefore, it is best for us to hurry and strive to gain Shi Lengxing's support. At that time, we won't need to vote at the expanded meeting of the Standing Committee. Shi Lengxing will not be able to refuse our request, right?" Wang Yilin said, laughing to himself. With the materials obtained by Wang Mingquan, Shi Lengxing will probably come knocking on our door, asking to cooperate with Wang Yilin. So, it is best for us to hurry and strive to gain Shi Lengxing's support. At that time, we won't need to vote at the expanded meeting of the Standing Committee. Shi Lengxing will not be able to refuse our request, right?" Wang Yilin said, laughing to himself. With the materials obtained by Wang Mingquan, Shi Lengxing will probably come knocking on our door, asking to cooperate with Wang Yilin. If he does not cooperate and hands this material over to the Discipline Inspection Commission, or directly to the Chairman for handling, Shi Lengxing's days will definitely not be easy. At that time, he will at least have to remain neutral. If Shi Lengxing is a bit smarter, he will not do that. If he does not cooperate and hands this material over to the Discipline Inspection Commission, or directly to the Chairman for handling, Shi Lengxing's days will definitely not be easy. At that time, he will at least have to remain neutral. If Shi Lengxing is a bit smarter, he will not do that.

I know about this, so there is no need for the Prime Minister to worry. I will handle it well. I feel really sorry for causing the Prime Minister so much trouble!" Shi Lengxing said as he stood up, "I am feeling a bit unwell, so I won't see you off any further!

In terms of organization, the Ministry of National Defense is an agency under the State Council. However, due to the unique political system, the Ministry of National Defense is also one of the most independent departments. Currently, Premier Wang Yilin cannot excessively intervene in the affairs of the Ministry of National Defense and can only provide financial support. With the military backing it, Wang Yilin does not dare to use financial means to control the Ministry of National Defense. This has resulted in the current situation where, although Shi Lingxing is subordinate to Wang Yilin, he wields considerable power, and Wang Yilin is unable to manage him effectively. In fact, most countries in the world are like this, and even the United States is no exception.

This is not what I want to do. You also know that this was handled by someone sent by Old Zhao to deal with the * map * book. Do you think I have the ability to intervene in what Old Zhao wants to do?" Wang Yilin looked at Shi Lengxing's anxious expression, and it seemed that striking someone down was also a difficult task. Wang Yilin felt a bit uncomfortable in his heart.

Thinking of this, Wang Yilin felt a pang in his heart; this was entirely a political transaction. Now he had grasped the fox's tail of Shi Lengxing, and there was no way for Shi Lengxing to escape. However, the interests of those two petitioners, those innocent citizens who had lost their loved ones and died unjustly, could not be guaranteed. This is politics, rolling in a filthy mire; although everyone gets smeared with mud, one can only choose the lesser of two evils. This time is a typical political transaction, trading small losses for great benefits. Regardless of the circumstances, military reform is far more important than the farmers of a single village. Even if one is reluctant, this fact cannot be changed. This is politics, rolling in a filthy mire; although everyone gets smeared with mud, one can only choose the lesser of two evils. This time is a typical political transaction, trading small losses for great benefits. Regardless of the circumstances, military reform is far more important than the farmers of a single village. Even if one is reluctant, this fact cannot be changed.

Wang Mingquan stood beside with a calm expression, yet inside he was almost bursting with laughter. The Prime Minister's words were still as sharp as ever; with this subtle praise and hidden criticism, not only did he give Shi Lengxing a harsh reprimand, but he also elevated his own status. It is truly hard to imagine what Shi Lengxing is thinking at this moment

How could this happen! Shi Lingxing could hardly contain himself and was on the verge of roaring. After realizing his loss of composure, he said: "How is it that I am unaware of this matter? This is also related to our Ministry of Defense, isn't it? Why is there not a single piece of information?"

After Shi Lengxing finished speaking, Wang Yilin let out a sigh of relief; this was good, as his objective had been achieved. Wang Yilin also did not forget to do some cover work, saying: "That would be the best. If there is an opportunity, Minister Shi, it would be best to bring Shi Gengbiao back. You know, young people can easily go astray if there is no one to supervise them outside!"

Shi Lengxing spoke as he had already started to walk upstairs, while Wang Yilin smiled at Wang Mingquan and quickly followed suit

Before long, Shi Lengxing came downstairs wearing a nightgown. It was evident that he had made some preparations, but he overlooked one detail: his hairstyle was neatly styled, which certainly did not resemble someone who had just gotten out of bed

"Xiao De, don't shout!" A young man in his twenties stepped out; he was the nephew of Shi Lengxing, yet his name escaped him. Shi Lengxing had no children, so he treated his several nephews and nieces as if they were his own children. The young man also saw Wang Yilin and, after a moment of surprise, smiled and said, "Uncle Wang, what brings you here? I'll go call my uncle out!" When Wang Yilin was a minister, he lived here for two or three years, and his residence was right next to Shi Lengxing's home, so these younger generations all knew him.