Qi Tongwei: Sign-in relationship started during student days

Judging from the information revealed in the drama, Qian Zhaoyi's decision to become a leading figure in the fight against Zhao is likely due to his 22 years of stagnation at the level of a department director, which is probably inextricably linked to the Zhao family.

After all, judging from his age, it was highly unlikely that he would have had a direct conflict with Gao Yuliang back then—Gao Yuliang was either still teaching at a university or had just entered politics and had no influence on his career.

Then look at Zhao Lichun, whose resume of eight years as provincial governor and ten years as party secretary coincides with the crucial period when Qian Zhaoyi should have been promoted.

Thinking about it this way, it's clear that Zhao Lichun suppressed him at every turn back then, keeping Comrade Qian Zhaoyi stuck at the level of a department director and never giving him a chance to advance further.

Therefore, Zhao Lichun's previous actions were probably not entirely true.

Hou Liangping was merely pushed to the forefront and used as a tool to suppress dissent.

Before Qi Tongwei could deduce the truth, Hou Liangping raised his voice and took over, "Dad, this time, I'm afraid I'll have to put you in a difficult position again."

Zhao Lichun's smile froze instantly. He then turned to Qi Tongwei and shook his head helplessly: "Look, I just told this kid he's stubborn, and he's already trying to put me on the spot." He waved his hand, his tone deliberately impatient: "I won't listen. Since it's something difficult, let's not talk about it for now."

"Didn't you see we have important guests today? What urgent matter could you possibly discuss later? Huh?"

Seeing this, Zhao Xiaohui quickly chimed in to support her husband, glancing at Qi Tongwei: "Dad, Liangping has never been the type to speak out about things casually. If he wants to say something, it must be something very important."

It just so happens that Committee Member Qi is also here. He has a background in politics and law and is very experienced. Perhaps he can offer Liangping some constructive advice and help him make decisions.

Zhao Lichun's gaze fell heavily on Hou Liangping, as if trying to see through his skin to understand his thoughts. After a long while, he slowly spoke, his tone carrying a hint of scrutiny: "Is it necessary to say it?"

Hou Liangping met his gaze without flinching or avoiding it, and nodded slightly: "I have to tell you."

Zhao Lichun turned to Qi Tongwei and asked casually, "Tongwei, what's your opinion?"

Qi Tongwei had no idea that Hou Liangping's criticism was actually directed at him. He took it as a routine official matter and immediately waved his hand with a smile: "What opinion could I possibly have? I'm currently free of official duties and can't help with anything."

I'll just listen; as for your suggestions, don't come to me. I'm not in that position, so I shouldn't meddle.

"What a fine example of 'not being in a position to interfere in its affairs.'" Upon hearing this, Zhao Lichun's face regained a smile, and he waved his hand at Hou Liangping: "Go on, speak."

Hou Liangping nodded slightly and reported in a serious tone: "Half a month ago, we received reliable intelligence that a former municipal party secretary of a prefecture-level city is suspected of serious violations of discipline and law. I plan to invite him to come here for investigation in accordance with the law."

I hope you can give me your feedback to the Provincial Party Committee and approve my report as soon as possible.

Zhao Lichun was taken aback upon hearing this, his eyes widening suddenly. He scolded, "You rascal! Former municipal party secretary? You're getting bolder and bolder! Before, you only investigated department-level and section-level cadres, but now you're starting to investigate high-ranking officials—are you planning to turn the political scene in Handong upside down?"

Hou Liangping gave a helpless, bitter smile, turned to look at Qi Tongwei, and said with a hint of teasing, "Senior, you see, my dad's words are just for show."

They were just telling me to clean up the atmosphere in Handong, but now they're going back on their word.