Before Quan Dean came to visit the emperor, he had not coordinated with Wen Chenghuan. Nor had he expected Wen Chenghuan to demand Hu Xiaotian's punishment right beside the emperor's sickbed. It was rather too hasty, but now that he had said it, they could only see how the emperor responded.
Long Yelin said, "Minister Wen, rest assured. I will give you an accounting for what happened to Lady Wen. I am somewhat tired..." The first sentence fobbed Wen Chenghuan off; the second dismissed him.
Wen Chenghuan was an old fox, cunning and seasoned. Naturally, he understood that this was not the time to demand an explanation. His purpose in asking the emperor to uphold justice was to establish his position and make everyone understand that he was the victim.
Zhou Ruiyuan and Wen Chenghuan took their leave, but Long Yelin kept Quan Dean behind. There was nothing strange about this. After all, Quan Dean had once been the eunuch at Long Yelin's side, so having him stay to attend to the emperor was perfectly normal.
Quan Dean sent all the other eunuchs out, then adjusted the cushion behind the emperor.
Long Yelin said, "I nearly died just now."
Quan Dean said, "Your Majesty's blessings reach the heavens. Even when danger arises, you are certain to turn misfortune into good fortune."
Long Yelin said, "Had it not been for Hu Xiaotian today, I might truly not have survived this ordeal."
Quan Dean reached out and checked his pulse. Only after confirming that it was steady did he relax. In a low voice, he asked, "Does Your Majesty intend to reward him?"
Long Yelin said, "Ji Feihua wants to protect him!" As he said this, his expression became exceedingly complicated, filled with conflict and helplessness. "What do you think?"
Quan Dean