2:45 PM, Tang Xintian went upstairs and knocked on Han Lie's door.
2:50 PM, accompanied by Tang Xintian, Han Lie arrived at the main conference hall and saw a vast sea of people.
There was nothing unusual about a bank's year-end meeting. Even county-level branches could organize one, and their enthusiasm was no less than that of larger branches or the head office. Organizing such an event typically involved finding a hotel, sending out invitations to major clients, inviting a couple of economists specializing in macroeconomics, and preparing a buffet. Including two rather practical gifts pleased the clients, and the organizers could also look forward to a lucrative year-end. If the standards were higher, they might even invite the local supervising officials. Everyone would enjoy a joyful meal together, spending public money to cultivate private relationships—what was not to like?
