"They saw a joke at your expense, Yang Wenying, or at mine, Shen Feihu’s? Or maybe at the General Union’s?" Shen Feihu, in his rage, wasn’t one for mincing words, and when he swore at someone, his expression was as fierce as a tiger’s.
"If this doesn’t work, we’ll replace them all. I refuse to believe that we can’t find the people I want."
"I’m sorry, President, this was a failure of my management. I request punishment from the organization and will impose severe punishment on the relevant individuals involved. Anyone who should be fired will be fired, anyone who deserves a major demerit... will get one."
Shen Feihu watched her in silence, before finally relenting. "Regarding the matter with Liu Yilan, if the Liu family makes a fuss, it will be troublesome. Qiu Bai is Liu Yilan’s aunt; have her assist you, and make sure this is handled properly."
The Liu family is a noble family of artists that has produced many talents. Liu Yilan showed the most potential of this generation; ruining her would be something the Liu family could never stomach.
"Yes! Thank you, President." It wasn’t until now that Yang Wenying realized Qiu Bai was Liu Yilan’s real aunt; Qiu Bai was merely a stage name. Neither had mentioned it, nor had they shown any sign of their relation. If it hadn’t been for this major incident, Yang Wenying guessed Qiu Bai might have kept it a secret.
"President, the catalyst for today’s issue was decidedly Sheng Ning. I would like to ask about what happened." Yang Wenying had heard bits and pieces but was unclear about the details. She knew the President had been at the Su family’s place too, so asking him seemed the quickest way.
Shen Feihu sat in his chair, saying mysteriously, "Don’t touch Sheng Ning for now; you can’t afford to, and neither can I."
Yang Wenying’s eyes widened in shock. "What happened, exactly?"
"The long-lost granddaughter of the Su family turned out to be Sheng Ning."
"But Qin Cuifen said it was her, and Hai Lan agreed."
"Heh heh... You wouldn’t say that if you saw the oil painting hanging in the Su family’s living room. Anyway, Su Hai is still investigating; I believe we will have the results soon. The General Union Dance Troupe needs fixing up, so carry on as usual and don’t spare anyone’s feelings."
Yang Wenying was about to leave when the phone rang on Shen Feihu’s desk.
"Hello! Qigang? What’s the matter? You’re calling in sick for Comrade Sheng Ning? Alright, no problem. Yang, head of the Song and Dance Troupe, is in my office; I’ll inform her. Mhm!"
Shen Feihu hung up the phone, a serious look upon his face. "Qigang just called. Since she personally requested a leave for Sheng Ning, you should show that courtesy."
"Understood, I know! Your trusted aide—I wouldn’t dare not to show respect."
Yang Wenying left the President’s office; her assistant was already waiting outside.
"Where’s Teacher Qiu Bai?"
"Head of the Troupe, Teacher Qiu Bai went to the hospital! Living Yama just took Sheng Ning away."
"That’s fine. I’m aware of it," Yang Wenying said as she walked.
"What about the situation at the Detention Room? The Hai family has already called to inquire."
Yang Wenying sneered, "Just say we don’t know; we’re off to a meeting now!"
In the Southern District far away, Su Jiang anxiously hovered by the phone, his stern face etched with concern.
"Leader, it’s time to eat."
"No need!" Su Jiang waved his hand dismissively. "You go ahead. Don’t wait for me."
"Leader, you should take care of your health!" The assistant was persistent, not willing to leave.
After the assistant left, the phone finally rang.
"Dad! Grandfather is alright, no need for you to worry."
"That’s good to hear, really good. What about that girl Sheng Ning? Why won’t she acknowledge us?" Su Jiang’s unhappiness was evident.