Chapter 326: Accountability

Chapter 326: Holding Accountable

Fu Tinghua had just walked near the dean's office when he noticed a crowd of people standing outside—clearly government officials.

After hesitating for just a second, Fu Tinghua walked forward without hesitation.

"Oh, the Deputy Director is here."

Someone said this, and immediately, all the officials gathered around the dean's office turned their heads toward Fu Tinghua.

Under their watchful eyes, Fu Tinghua remained composed and continued walking forward.

"Ah, Xiao Fu is here? Xiao Fu, come in quickly!" The dean, hearing the commotion outside, called for Fu Tinghua to enter.

Fu Tinghua: "..."

Without another word, Fu Tinghua stepped into the office.

Sure enough, he saw the Mayor, Deputy Mayor, Police Chief, and the dean sitting on the couch, all staring at him.

There was also someone Fu Tinghua knew well—Huang Chaoming, the senior professor originally dispatched to Wencheng to develop its agricultural technology.

Back then, Fu Tinghua had been Huang Chaoming's primary doctor, so the two were naturally familiar with each other.

"Sorry I'm late," Fu Tinghua said with a nod to the group.

"Not at all, not at all. Xiao Fu, come, come, sit here next to me," the Mayor said with a smile.

Fu Tinghua didn’t hesitate and took the seat the Mayor indicated.

"Xiao Fu, did today scare you?" the dean asked with concern.

"It was fine. The incident was sudden, but as soon as I received the news, I headed straight to surgery," Fu Tinghua replied succinctly.

"Ah, don’t worry. I’ve decided to assign two officers to keep a discreet watch over you from now on," the Mayor declared.

At these words, the faces of everyone present instantly turned thoughtful.

Who was this Fu Tinghua? What kind of background did he have to warrant the Mayor personally assigning him protection?

Just as everyone was taking this in, the Mayor added, "And Professor Huang Chaoming, I’ll also be assigning two people to protect you."

Fu Tinghua was confused and asked, "Is the situation that serious?"

The Mayor had been waiting for this question and immediately clarified Fu Tinghua’s doubts.

"Yes, we have strong reason to believe that someone is targeting Wencheng’s top technical experts.

Xiao Fu, you must understand—when ‘accidents’ happen too frequently, they aren't accidents anymore.

According to investigations, there has been frequent crime near the hospital over the past two months.

In the past, this wouldn't have been a big deal. After all, the country is still developing, and some unrest is normal.

But just now, I received word from other cities. Many promising young professionals across various regions have encountered ‘accidents’ to varying degrees in recent months.

So I believe this is no coincidence. Someone is definitely pulling the strings behind the scenes.

Xiao Fu, do you understand what I’m saying?" After all, not everyone likes being watched all the time, like they're under surveillance.

"I understand. Thank you, Mayor." Fu Tinghua was willing to accept the mayor's kindness.

The mayor nodded at Fu Tinghua with satisfaction, then turned to the Deputy Mayor and said, "Strengthen control over Wencheng in the near future. No area should be overlooked. If another incident occurs in Wencheng, our reputation will be tarnished. Who would want to come here for development then? This is a pivotal moment in our city’s development. We must not let the nation or the people down."

The Deputy Mayor listened attentively, knowing the mayor’s words were meant not just for him but for everyone present.

After everyone gave a brief recap of the incident, the mayor finally seemed satisfied.

"Let’s go. The injured doctor is still under observation and isn’t suitable for visits, but we’ll provide some financial compensation," Dean Qin remarked.

"Yes, yes. Thank you so much, Mayor. I’m sure Dr. Chen Mo will appreciate your generosity when he hears about it," Dean Qin quickly flattered.

The mayor gave a light laugh in response and added, "As long as Wencheng prospers and its people are well, nothing else matters. Well, it’s getting late. Everyone, you may leave. But Dean Qin, we need tighter hospital security. Doctors are here to heal, not to have their safety compromised."

The unspoken message was obvious: Where was security when this happened? A doctor was stabbed dozens of times, and no one noticed or intervened in time.

Dean Qin winced internally. The incident had been sudden—who could have anticipated it? But if higher-ups demanded accountability, what could he do? He’d have to pin the blame on the security chief and fire him.

"Absolutely. The hospital’s security was indeed lacking. I’ll take care of the disciplinary and accountability steps. You have my word."

The mayor called out a few more people in the room and, after extracting numerous assurances and promises, finally left the hospital satisfied.

Dean Qin and Fu Tinghua escorted them out. Only once they were gone did Dean Qin wipe the sweat from his brow.

Fu Tinghua watched quietly, his face unreadable.

Seeing this, Dean Qin admired him even more. Dr. Fu was going places.

Though the mayor smiled warmly, everyone felt the chill beneath it. Only Fu Tinghua had remained composed throughout.

Even after earning the mayor’s favor and attention, he showed no trace of arrogance or elation. His composure only deepened Dean Qin’s respect for him.

"Fu, I’m not as young as I used to be—I can’t handle pressure like you. You truly hold your ground in major moments," Dean Qin couldn’t help but remark.

When the mayor called him out earlier, Dean Qin had broken into a cold sweat. This was a major incident for the hospital. If the mayor had pushed for accountability, he might’ve lost his position as dean.

Thankfully, it wasn’t Fu Tinghua who had been hurt—otherwise—

"You’re too kind, Dean. Is there anything else for now?" Fu Tinghua suddenly asked.

"No, why?"

"If not, I’ll head out as usual. Though Dr. Chen Mo’s condition is stable, he still needs prolonged observation. My family’s pretty shaken up about today, so I’d like to go home and be with them."

Dean Qin gave him an understanding look and quickly agreed, "Of course, of course. You should reassure your family. Go ahead and head back."