He Zidong was a fairly well-known poet and writer on Hong Kong Island who also wrote regular columns for the Sing Tao Daily, making him something of a noted Social Commentator.
His commentary had always been incisive, and his writing was known for its sharpness, often stirring public controversy.
And controversy usually brought attention.
Wei Zhaohui had approached him several times before, hoping he would write a column for the Tin Tin Daily, but he had always refused.
He had even turned down the people Leung Siu-tong sent to approach him.
Later, while chatting with a friend, he brought it up. "Old Wei from the Tin Tin Daily asked me several times to write a column, but I never agreed. The people they sent to see me a couple of days ago claimed to be from Hongxing, though. Has the Tin Tin Daily changed owners?"
"Yes. Gu Sheng from Hongxing is behind it now," said He Zidong's good friend Zhou Baosong.
Zhou Baosong was also a Social Commentator who often raised livelihood issues and social welfare policies.
Not many people paid attention to the Tin Tin Daily's change of ownership, but some industry insiders had heard a little about it.
"Handsome Sheng from Hongxing... no wonder." He Zidong understood. Although he knew little about such matters, he had heard of Handsome Sheng from Hongxing.
People mentioned him now and then in the streets, in cafés, and in bars. He knew he was the Leader of Hongxing, the largest Triad on Hong Kong Island.
"You didn't agree?" Zhou Baosong asked.
"No!" He Zidong said carelessly.
"Those people will do anything to get their way. Be careful they don't make trouble for you," Zhou Baosong warned. "Wong Hoi-sam offended Gu Sheng and ended up thoroughly humiliated."
Although he did not pay much