When the Possessive Omega Fell for Me - Chapter 60

Time ticked by, and reactions varied both on and off the stage.

Yi Jing noticed data streams from testing equipment gradually emerging from the offices of several candidates. Below the stage, citizens began raising support banners for their preferred contenders.

The holographic screens along the central commercial district paused their usual displays, preparing to broadcast the speeches.

Most citizens who had been going about their business stopped—those indoors opened their terminals, while those outside halted in their tracks to watch the nearest projection.

In this world, the general election was a major event that captured public attention, affecting everyone’s lives. Many were eagerly anticipating it.

Yi Jing quietly observed the backend data streams, her cool gaze sweeping over every risk-indicated area on the surveillance screens. Five minutes later, the mayor, responsible for the opening speech, appeared punctually on the podium.

Having known him for so long, Yi Jing had never paid much attention to the mayor’s appearance. The old man wasn’t particularly striking—just the kind of mild, relaxed demeanor that came with long-held authority, making him seem like a refined elder.

Rumor had it that higher-ups in the political-legal system had repeatedly recommended him for elections at the territorial level. Unfortunately, his results were always middling, stopping just short of becoming an official candidate—leaving no grounds to question his competence nor any excuse to promote him.

Later, there were attempts to transfer him to other territories or cities, but the mayor refused each time. Whether it was due to self-doubt or reluctance to leave Jing’an City, his stronghold, remained unclear.

Yi Jing watched coldly as the impeccably dressed mayor stood on the slowly ascending floating platform, speaking eloquently. Surprisingly, the audience’s response was quite enthusiastic.

She felt a twinge of irritation, but upon reflection, realized the old man’s administration had handled public relations well, maintaining decent popularity. Even the recent explosion hadn’t made major headlines, fading quietly to preserve his dignity.

Yi Jing: “Tch.”

Too bad, there just wasn’t enough time.

Had she arrived earlier or been stronger, she might have dealt with him too.

But now wasn’t the moment. Neither she nor Yu Miao could afford to target the mayor—an insignificant figure—before taking down the colossal Yi family.

They were too passive. More than eliminating a minor player, they needed an opportunity to “establish their own influence.”

For years, District 13 had been firmly under the Yi family’s control. High-ranking positions remained static, with most officials thoroughly infiltrated, making external interference nearly impossible. Every move was blocked by the Yi family’s reach. Without change, even Yi Jing would struggle to break free, forced to bide her time with Yu Miao.

Only during moments like this—when Jing’an City’s internal structure was no longer rigid, on the verge of upheaval—could they attempt to reshuffle the deck, plant their own people, gather allies, and finally act on their own terms.

For Yi Jing, the mayor’s smooth retirement was even a good thing.

Yi Jing sighed softly, watching helplessly as the old mayor took the stage to deliver his speech, accepted the cheers of the crowd, and then stepped down with that infuriatingly calm smile that always made Yi Jing’s blood boil.

Annoying, annoying, annoying.

The next to take the stage was the candidate dispatched from above. Compared to the other two contenders, this one had a more moderate and well-rounded style—a developmental talent.

Yi Jing had reviewed the candidate’s campaign outline. At least in terms of future development strategies, this was the only sane one among them.

The other two? What kind of people were they even?

Unwilling to dwell on it, Yi Jing averted his gaze, subtly expressing his disdain before shifting his focus back to the data monitoring platform.

The first candidate’s speech signaled the opening of the voting channels, which meant data monitoring had to begin immediately.

Yi Jing stood and walked over to the surveillance screen.

The first candidate stepped onto the floating podium. As an official transferred from another jurisdiction, they lacked the familiarity and hometown advantage with the local populace. However, this candidate was clearly skilled at rallying support—young, articulate, with a relaxed and humorous speaking style.

Being the first to speak also meant they didn’t have to counter any attacks or challenges from previous candidates. A steady approach, focusing solely on presenting their vision, would suffice.

Yi Jing observed the young politician with mild interest, only to realize they had no intention of stirring controversy either. The candidate started strong, citing a few relatable examples from everyday life and joking about some of the most common issues troubling the public.

In this setting, all candidates were elevated on floating platforms, so no live audience reactions were possible. But online spectators weren’t idle—within minutes, public sentiment and discussion around this candidate should have started shifting.

Yi Jing turned to the tech team, glancing at the four holographic screens floating before them. “Any changes in the data?”

“Yes, Chief,” the technician replied, fingers flying over the virtual keyboard as they worked. “The candidate’s votes are already moving, and keyword engagement is rising.”

So polished.

Yi Jing lifted his gaze to the candidate on the surveillance screen.

Their opening jokes had wrapped up, smoothly transitioning from casual banter to Jing’an City’s key industries, then to the city’s economic planning, before circling back to the struggles faced by its lower-class residents.

Then, as the candidate discussed common issues among ordinary citizens, they brought up other cities with similar industrial models, seamlessly introducing their core strategy—improving quality of life through industrial restructuring.

Voters, unaccustomed to such easily digestible speeches without needing expert analysis, looked more engaged than ever.

“Any shifts in the votes?” Yi Jing asked, eyes still fixed on the screen.

“The current candidate has already secured over 4% of the votes. Though this is just the preliminary round, the campaign speech has barely begun—less than fifteen minutes in, not even halfway through the allotted time—and these results already surpass the initial predictions of the data analysis team,” the technician monitoring the fluctuating data promptly replied.

Yi Jing swiftly turned her head to ask another group, “What about the monitoring team? Any anomalous data detected?”

“All clear, everything’s normal,” replied the inspector seated in a far corner as he removed his headphones and looked at Yi Jing. “Current assessment confirms authentic data. Other candidates are also quietly awaiting their turns.”

Yi Jing nodded and redirected her gaze to the candidate on screen.

Perhaps, after both Delinke and Mahira lose, this person might rise to power?

Delinke exposed facts about Mahira, forcing her to divert energy to respond. Once this battle of public opinion concludes, both Delinke and Mahira’s reputations and official standings will inevitably suffer. In the end, the one who remains uninvolved stands to gain the most.

But, could the Yi family truly allow this person to emerge as the ultimate victor?

Yi Jing couldn’t predict how events would unfold. Crossing her arms, she watched the first candidate’s speech conclude, witnessing their votes surge to a staggering 18%.

During initial campaign speeches, most voters don’t immediately cast their ballots. Over half wait until they’ve heard all candidates’ speeches and analyzed online commentary before considering their vote.

The peak voting period occurs one to two days after the speeches. For a candidate like this—lacking local work experience and a grassroots base—to secure 18% immediately after their speech is already terrifying.

This indicates the candidate has effectively captured all impulsive, politically inexperienced voters who are quicker to cast their ballots.

Such results should be more than enough to draw the Yi family’s attention.

If possible, Yi Jing still preferred to push someone she knew well into the mayor’s seat. Though Delink’s stance remained unclear, at least they—like her and Yu Miao weren’t closely aligned with the Yi family.

As for this unexpected candidate.

If Delinke truly couldn’t assume office, supporting this candidate might be the only option. She hoped everything would proceed smoothly.

As the first speech concluded, the proceedings swiftly moved to the next phase.

The preparation team allowed little time for spectators to discuss before the second candidate took the podium.

Yi Jing’s relaxed posture immediately straightened.

Delink’s demeanor remained unchanged—stern and intimidating, their gaze scanning the crowd as if assessing criminals. Even in this setting where winning public favor was crucial, they showed no softening.

Unconsciously, Yi Jing focused intently on Delink, folding her arms as she prepared to hear what they would say.

Given Delink’s senior position, they must be accustomed to public addresses. Basic speech delivery shouldn’t be an issue.

Just as Yi Jing had this thought, she watched the veteran official—who should be experienced in public speaking—casually adjust the podium microphone and launch into their speech without preamble.

Yi Jing was still pondering how Delinkewould steer the conversation toward accusations against Mahira when, unexpectedly, Delinke launched straight into his statement. It began like a formal report to superiors, summarizing all major cases handled by the Inspection Institute over the past two years.

Yi Jing: “??”

Wait, is this how election speeches are supposed to go? Is this normal?

Taking the stage only to ruthlessly attack disgraced colleagues without holding back, had Delinke even considered the repercussions he’d face if he took office? Or that neutral officials and families, witnessing his merciless approach, might defect to Mahira’s side?

Didn’t he even think about winning some votes for himself?

Insiders found it absurd, sensing something was off, but the voters below the stage didn’t seem to notice anything unusual. They listened attentively, cursing along—not at Delink, of course, but at the investigated officials and scandal-ridden corporations.

Yi Jing: “…”

As more officials and companies were named, Yi Jing gradually caught on to the strategy.

The more non-compliant enterprises mentioned earlier, the more credible—and alarming—the subsequent exposure of Mahira’s hidden risks would appear to the public.

Delinke might not have intended to become mayor at all. His sole goal was to drag Mahira down, ensuring she never took office.

Sure enough, after lambasting the already fallen officials, Delinke turned his focus to the healthcare system.

He detailed the hidden dangers behind the newly implemented medical regulations under Mahira’s administration, linking them to insurance reimbursement issues and pointing out how numerous corporations had begun exploiting gray areas for profit.

The scope of his criticism was staggering—even Yi Jing couldn’t help but sigh at the audacity.

Meanwhile, the nearing end of the speech played on the surveillance feed.

“Due to the new medical regulations, rare diseases such as X-3 Genetic Disorder and McClin Syndrome no longer require risk disclosures when prescribing certain low-cost medications. These drugs, while cheaper, come with severe side effects, lower efficacy, and higher dosage requirements. Additionally, under the revised definition of ‘medical malpractice’ in the new regulations, cases where improper medication leads to worsened conditions no longer qualify as ‘medical accidents.’

At the same time, a significant number of city-based corporations adjusted their production lines before the new regulations took effect, halting the manufacture of high-efficacy drugs while diverting resources to those listed in the new catalog. Whether this was coincidental or premeditated remains to be investigated.

The Inspection Institute currently lacks the capacity to fully probe the aforementioned issues. If elected, I will take responsibility for this matter and disclose all findings to the public in an official report.”

With that, Delink—who should have elaborated on his governance vision, fell silent. Without another word, he lowered the podium and stepped away.

A fan, likely from the hardline faction, tossed a flower onto the stage, appearing fervent. But Yi Jing only glanced at the data monitor and asked, “How are the votes looking?”

“Just hit 4%,” replied one of the analysts, mostly transferred from the judicial department. Even without full context, they instinctively sensed the situation wasn’t favorable. “The numbers are fluctuating. So far, public reception of the Director’s speech is mixed.”

That’s looking grim, Yi Jing frowned in thought.

The game had just begun, and the advantage wasn’t on their side. Once Mahira started targeting them, there would inevitably be prolonged entanglement. This was troublesome.

If even she could see this clearly, Old Master Yi would certainly understand. This political game was probably lost already.

Yi Jing could no longer focus on monitoring the scene. She turned and left the data monitoring center, heading to her temporary office on the same floor to call Yu Miao.

“Hello?” Yu Miao answered quickly, her gentle voice flowing through the terminal.

Yi Jing took a deep breath, barely suppressing her anxious emotions, and asked softly, “Did you watch the election broadcast just now?”

“I saw it,” Yu Miao replied. “The Inspector General was more reckless than I expected. Pity he used his do-or-die determination too early. Even a little more acting would have helped. Now he’ll likely face retaliation from the Yi family.”

“As for that transferred candidate. The Yi family might make some concessions and adjust their strategy in advance.”

“We’re somewhat passive now and may not truly bring down Mahira. Speaking of which. Doesn’t Derinke have a professional campaign team? How could they approve such a reckless plan?”

“…”
Yi Jing pressed her temples. “My oversight—I overestimated him. I should have helped him come up with a plan to buy us more time.”

Yu Miao: “It’s alright. If we act quickly, there might still be a chance.”

“Mm,” Yi Jing responded quietly. “Has the organization found anything?”

“Cases are easy to find, but evidence of Mahira’s private dealings with Hengen Group will take more time.”

“I’ve handed over the documents I have. Following the trail should uncover something. If we can’t find sufficiently convincing material. Our last resort would be to release those mayoral documents just before vote-locking, dragging everyone down to catch Mahira’s team off guard.”

Yi Jing acknowledged again without objection.

But that was truly a last-ditch measure. Even if successful, the aftermath would be messy. At most, it would cost the Yi family some losses without truly threatening their core.

Her and Yu Miao’s positions would become even more precarious.

But that was a problem for later. Yi Jing exhaled softly: “The election isn’t over yet. I should return to monitoring. Can you handle advancing the organization’s matters, sister?”

“Don’t worry,” Yu Miao answered gently, offering reassurance. “There won’t be any problems. Remember? I want to see the Yi family fall even more than you do.”

“…”

Normally, Yi Jing wouldn’t be comforted by baseless reassurance—words couldn’t change reality. But perhaps because of who spoke them, she inexplicably felt a slight easing of tension.

“Understood, sister.” Yi Jing’s tone softened completely as she responded.

After their quick call, Yi Jing took a deep breath, composed herself, opened the office door, and returned to the data monitoring center.

“Chief?” A monitor from the second team approached, quietly inquiring about her status.

Yi Jing waved his hand to indicate he was fine, then gestured for the inspectors to continue working. He walked over to the large monitoring screen and asked, “What’s the current situation?”

“Ms. Mahira just took the stage. She seems unaffected in her demeanor and even interacted with her supporters. But judging by the direction of her speech, she appears ready to directly counter the challenges raised by the Dean,” the inspector who had been monitoring the scene for Yi Jing replied quietly.

Yi Jing glanced at the person—another member of Xu Jiu’s Inspection Team Two, someone he’d worked with on-site before.

Nodding, Yi Jing shifted his gaze to the monitoring screen.

On the central display, Mahira was speaking with a composed smile. Frowning slightly, Yi Jing picked up a headset and heard her articulate in a gentle yet methodical tone:

“The applicability of current industry regulations in the coming years is a matter under joint study by the Medical Department and municipal authorities. We take this issue very seriously, but no major oversights have been identified thus far.”

“I’ve noted the concerns raised earlier by Dean Delinke. If verified, I will immediately launch an investigation and will never tolerate any regulatory violations—the public will receive full accountability.”

“Moreover, a city’s true developmental path cannot be fixated solely on internal disputes. If all our energy is consumed by such matters, who will drive progress in public welfare?”

“We must focus on improving citizens’ quality of life. Public welfare encompasses multiple dimensions, and to genuinely elevate living standards, we need to.”

Yi Jing stopped listening at this point, removing the headset as his eyes remained fixed on the screen.

So, it begins.

The next step will likely be a battle of public opinion, won’t it? Who will emerge victorious—Mahira and the Yi family?

Or Delinke, secretly supported by her and Yu Miao?

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