As Zhan Peng had said, Zhou Ruiyuan's ability in domestic affairs surpassed that of most men. Years in politics, with several rises and falls, had given him a penetrating understanding of the situation. Although startling news had been coming out of Great Kang's court one item after another lately, Zhou Ruiyuan remained unruffled. Unless the emperor approached him, he would never take the initiative to inquire into these matters, especially major affairs concerning who would hold imperial power.
Zhou Ruiyuan had caught a chill two days earlier and had been resting at home ever since. He had given orders to refuse all visitors unless the emperor or Princess Yongyang summoned him. Yet someone delivered a visiting card early that morning. One glance at its contents made his expression change, and he hurriedly told his steward to show the visitor in.
The visitor was Hu Xiaotian. Naturally, he would not reveal his identity and had once again disguised himself. Walking in openly with his true face would surely cause unnecessary trouble, not only for himself but also for Zhou Ruiyuan. But why would Zhou Ruiyuan, the exalted Chancellor of Great Kang, agree to see a stranger in disguise? That posed no difficulty for Hu Xiaotian.
The ledger Ji Feihua had given him contained many secrets, including Zhou Ruiyuan's. Hu Xiaotian merely wrote Chu Qingfeng's name on the visiting card and gained smooth entry into the Chancellor's Residence, where he was brought before Zhou Ruiyuan.
Zhou Ruiyuan had yet to recover, and his voice was heavily nasal. "You are...?"
Hu Xiaotian glanced to either side. Zhou Ruiyuan waved a hand, dismissing all the servants.
Hu Xiaotian bowed respectfully with his hands clasped. "Your nephew pays his respects, Uncle Zhou!" As he lowered his head, he removed his mask.
When Hu Xiaotian raised