Zhou Ruiyuan said, "His Majesty has already announced it publicly and restored his princely title. The whole world knows."
Hu Xiaotian said, "His Majesty intends to use him to replace Princess Yongyang."
Zhou Ruiyuan said, "A sovereign's heart is hard to fathom. I would not presume to guess what His Majesty truly intends. Judging by the current situation, however, he seems intent on weakening Princess Yongyang's power, and she has been very cooperative."
Hu Xiaotian shook his head. "Uncle, you have worked with Princess Yongyang for some time now. What do you think of her?"
Zhou Ruiyuan answered cautiously, "As a subject, I dare not pass judgment."
Hu Xiaotian said, "If she were a man, her clear head and decisive handling of affairs would make her the most suitable heir to Great Kang's imperial throne."
Zhou Ruiyuan wholeheartedly agreed. He, too, had once believed His Majesty intended to name Qiqi his heir. Yet the emperor's trust in and reliance on her had lasted only through the early days of his restoration. Afterward, the rift between them had grown ever deeper. Bringing Long Tingzhen forward was probably a move to prepare for replacing Princess Yongyang, while arranging her marriage to Hu Xiaotian was meant to catch them both in one net. Zhou Ruiyuan said, "Actually, Lord Hu, the person you should see is Her Highness." In his view, Hu Xiaotian and Qiqi faced the same danger. They ought to share one boat and weather the storm together.
Hu Xiaotian said, "I have received word that Hong Beimo has recently been secretly making overtures to Princess Yongyang."
Zhou Ruiyuan frowned. He knew nothing of this. According to his information, Hong Beimo had found and rescued Long Tingzhen. Since Hong Beimo had single-handedly brought about Long Tingzhen's return, he and Princess Yongyang should