Zhou Ruiyuan asked, "Your Majesty, have you never considered naming an heir apparent?"
Long Xuan'en fell silent at Zhou Ruiyuan's question. Only after a long while did he sigh. "How could I not? Minister Zhou, to tell you the truth, I am old, and my strength dwindles by the day. My allotted span is nearing its end. If one day I should suddenly ride a crane west, who would preside over Great Kang's altars of state?"
Zhou Ruiyuan hastily dropped to his knees. "May Your Majesty live for thousands upon thousands of years! How could such a thing happen?"
Long Xuan'en shook his head, his expression growing sorrowful. "That day comes for everyone."
Something stirred in Zhou Ruiyuan's heart. No wonder Hu Xiaotian had said earlier that a rift had opened between Long Xuan'en and Hong Beimo. Judging by Long Xuan'en's behavior, his faith in the arts of immortality must have begun to waver.
Long Xuan'en turned away and stared blankly out the window. Outside, the spring sunshine was radiant, but within his heart, all was gray.
Sovereign and minister sank into a prolonged silence. In the end, Long Xuan'en broke it first. "Do you think I should name Ting Zhen heir apparent?"
Zhou Ruiyuan said, "I dare not speak rashly."
Long Xuan'en said, "I remember you were not like this in the past. Do you remember why I stripped you of your office and reduced you to a commoner back then?"
Zhou Ruiyuan said, "I offended Your Majesty's imperial authority and spoke recklessly of court affairs. Whenever I recall it, I tremble with fear. Your Majesty was magnanimous and overlooked our past grievances. My gratitude brings me to tears."
Long Xuan'en shook his head. "You! I do not know whether I have changed or you have. Ever since I