Rebirth of Corrupt Officials

Rong Shaobai claimed to be serious, but Jiang Xiaochuan found his words highly unlikely.

He couldn’t forget that Rong Shaobai was deeply involved in illicit activities. Rong Shaobai had bribed him before, and in Rong Shaobai’s perspective, he should be someone with dark connections. Now, Rong Shaobai was asking Jiang Xiaochuan to believe he wanted to clear his name.

It seemed like the coldest joke in the world.

Jiang Xiaochuan maintained his smile, looking at Rong Shaobai’s slightly cold expression. “I’m sorry, this Jiang can’t do anything.”

Rong Shaobai paused while fiddling with his ring, not expecting Jiang Xiaochuan to refuse so straightforwardly. He felt a bit doubtful. “Mayor Jiang, you’re underestimating yourself. In reality, you have the capability. There’s nothing in this Rong’s possession that can threaten you. I hope you can assist me. This matter could be beneficial for you too. The previous deaths of Uncle Qiu and Qiu Yi, it’s probably always been a concern for you—”

He began to carefully choose his words.

Rong Shaobai effortlessly manipulated the conversation to achieve the best outcome, but Jiang Xiaochuan wasn’t completely in the dark about Rong family’s affairs. While he knew only a fraction of the story, it might be enough to deceive Rong Shaobai.

“This case is closed, President Rong. I’m not interested in delving into the shady stories of your club. Though I’ve heard some unsavory things from others, I don’t know if they’re just rumors. Those who step on the line may face consequences sooner or later. President Rong, you mentioned clearing your name. I think that’s a commendable goal, and I’ll support you emotionally.”

He could only support him emotionally.

Rong Shaobai finally smiled wryly, spreading his hands in a gesture of acceptance. “Mayor Jiang, if you say so, there’s no room for change at all.”

Rong Shaobai’s movement displayed a rare nonchalant attitude, leaving Jiang Xiaochuan a bit perplexed. It felt refreshing, yet he understood that this carefree demeanor was merely a fleeting moment. After all, Rong Shaobai was the most influential figure in the underground forces in Chengzhou. He wouldn’t allow himself to make mistakes. Even if he cleared his name, he would emerge as the most formidable figure. Such a person was highly competitive and harbored an unshakeable pride. Ultimately, he would pay the price for such sharp arrogance.

“It’s not that this Jiang is unwilling to help President Rong, but President Rong’s situation is truly intricate. President Rong, the level of individuals you associate with is beyond my reach. Nevertheless, rectifying your name is the right path, and President Rong is indeed worthy of steering the entire Rong family. I admire your courage.”

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The Rong family was a mafia organization, and on the surface, the Rong family club appeared as a representative of outstanding enterprises and institutions. However, behind the scenes, its illicit dealings had never ceased, and certain transactions that Rong Shaobai disapproved of had intensified. He sensed the danger from these trends, wanting to extricate himself, but his deep involvement with these people prevented him from letting go.

Rong Shaobai had anticipated Jiang Xiaochuan would respond this way, so he was disappointed but not entirely surprised. “Though Mayor Jiang has assumed economic responsibilities, I presume the security aspect won’t be neglected, right? Despite your busy schedule, there might be some small matters where I hope Mayor Jiang can provide assistance.”

Jiang Xiaochuan suddenly felt Rong Shaobai’s face was too thick. The favor he mentioned earlier was beyond Jiang Xiaochuan’s ability to assist, and now, he was making additional requests. Was this a deliberate attempt to ask for something smaller to comfort himself after making an unrealistic demand, or had Rong Shaobai meticulously laid groundwork in the past just to make such a request now?

If it was the latter, it demonstrated Rong Shaobai’s skill as a manipulator. He intentionally made several requests, knowing that most people would feel a sense of guilt if they couldn’t fulfill the initial one. Subsequently, if he presented another request that was contrary to the first, the person being requested would likely agree to a smaller one within their capacity. Due to the contrast between the two requests, they would subconsciously accept the latter.

This was a psychological illusion during conversation. In reality, the subsequent request could be just as significant when viewed in isolation. However, Jiang Xiaochuan remained cautious, not knowing what kind of request Rong Shaobai would make.

Jiang Xiaochuan raised his inner alert level before saying, “President Rong, please speak.”

Rong Shaobai glanced at the passing scenery outside the window, instructing the driver, “Drive slower,” before turning back to Jiang Xiaochuan. In his eyes, Jiang Xiaochuan appeared calm and collected. “There will be a fierce battle between the Qingtuan and Hong families in a few days, and the Rong family will also participate. Mayor Jiang, can you refrain from intervening then?”

‘Don’t interfere?’

Rong Shaobai certainly knew how to make a grand request…

Jiang Xiaochuan, with his legs crossed, observed the sharp angle formed by the seam of his straight suit pants along the side of his legs, adding a bit of edge to his usual gentleness. Calmly, he looked at his hands folded in his lap and responded, “I am still the deputy mayor, after all.”

To be honest, he didn’t comprehend why Rong Shaobai had to involve himself in the clash between the Qingtuan and Hong families. The major underworld forces were intricately connected, with complex relationships and factions leading to occasional friction.

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In his previous life, Jiang Xiaochuan and Rong Shaobai maintained a close relationship, intertwined with deep-seated interests. After all, he was responsible for public security, and Rong Shaobai was a key figure for his political achievements.

The fight between the Qingtuan and Hong families was anticipated by Rong Shaobai. At that time, Rong Shaobai didn’t know why he decided to join in and gave up on the previously planned plan to reap the benefits, resulting in the Rong family getting involved. Jiang Xiaochuan’s strength was greatly damaged in that fight, also causing a serious political crisis for him. After all, the underworld fight was too significant, and he, the deputy mayor in charge of this matter, felt a bit embarrassed.

Later, Yue Qingci used his resources for these matters. Additionally, Jiang Xiaochuan himself was quite skillful. He immediately stood up and explained to the public, forcing Rong Shaobai to sacrifice his interests and undergo criticism, putting the whole incident to rest.