Part 4/10:

What struck the author was discovering that even individuals in high positions—such as a party secretary of the state-owned enterprise—were facing similar predicaments, grappling with creditors. This newfound realization shattered the illusion that high-ranking officials were immune to financial strife. It mirrored a disturbing economic trend revealing that even Shanghai, once viewed as an unshakeable financial citadel, is vulnerable to downturns.