An Fu said softly, "Reporting to Your Highness, Cao Renqi, the Suzhou military commander, colluded with the Japanese and betrayed the country. He has been investigated and arrested by the Imperial Guard. His Majesty flew into a royal rage and summoned Prince Han and Minister of War Gao Feng to Qingxiao Daoist Palace, where he gave them a fierce dressing-down. Minister Gao even kowtowed until his forehead bled."
Princess Pingyang chuckled. "Cao Renqi was Gao Feng's disciple, yet he actually colluded with the Japanese. My fourth imperial brother is probably so furious he is about to spit three pints of blood. Prince Qi's faction has coveted the post of Minister of War for a long time. This time, they will likely seize the chance to impeach Minister Gao."
With both hands tucked into his sleeves, An Fu said, "Your Highness is absolutely correct. It seems Gao Feng may not be able to keep his position as Minister of War this time."
Princess Pingyang shook her head slightly. "No. The Minister of Personnel belongs to Prince Qi's faction, while the Minister of War belongs to Prince Han's faction. His Majesty will not allow Prince Qi to control both the Ministry of Personnel and the Ministry of War—unless Imperial Father intends to make Prince Qi the Crown Prince."
An Fu bowed and flattered her, "Your Highness is most perceptive! In truth, when it comes to talent, Your Highness far surpasses both Prince Qi and Prince Han. Alas, it is a pity that Your Highness was not born a prince. Otherwise, none but Your Highness could hold the position of heir apparent."
An Fu was not entirely flattering her. Princess Pingyang was exceptionally intelligent and immensely talented; she truly surpassed all the imperial princes.
Xiang Qingyang glanced at An Fu and said, "Eunuch