Chapter 36: Deterrence
The man beside Liu Zhensheng was named Yan Lufeng. He was an inspector of deputy department-level rank at the Municipal Culture, Radio, Film and Television Bureau, in his forties. An elder in his family had served as a bodyguard to one of the founding generals in his youth, later becoming chairman of a provincial people's congress. Though retired now, he remained a leading figure in the Yan family. Yan Lufeng was said to have reached his current position through the patronage of that elder's former protégés in higher office.
There was no need to elaborate on Yan Lufeng's position. Although an inspector held a non-leadership post without much actual authority and did not directly run things, such posts were generally reserved either for leaders stepping back from the front line or for people like him, whose superiors could not yet move on and leave an opening. They were temporarily appointed inspectors and enjoyed the equivalent administrative benefits.
Anyone with discerning eyes knew, however, that Yan Lufeng's promotion was only a matter of time. It might even come with the impending reshuffle at the bureau, a natural next step already being prepared for. A position like his was, of course, far beyond the reach of ordinary people. Outside public settings, a certain arrogance in private gatherings was only to be expected.
Given Yan Lufeng's position and possible career trajectory, all manner of influential people naturally gathered around him. Liu Zhensheng was an old acquaintance. For Yan Lufeng to advance further, someone like Liu, who controlled capital and knew his way around, was an ally he could bind firmly to his side.
They had originally come here for tea today. Yan Lufeng had not expected such a crowd, and his brow furrowed in displeasure.
Naturally, there was little he