Who is Wang Feng from Death of a Red Heroine and what is their importance?

Wang Feng is a young journalist. She is separated from her husband who defected to Japan and has formed a flirtatious friendship with Chen. They are in the blossoming stages of a romance when the book begins. Wang is a good foil for Chen. They share similar interests and Chen is able to discuss his work with her. She is intelligent and insightful and seems to be the perfect partner for Chen. She also serves as a useful resource. Her journalistic connections are able to progress the case faster than Chen would be able to through official channels.