Qiqi said, "His Majesty and I have discussed it. We intend to clear your family's name and restore your father to his post as Minister of Revenue."
Hu Xiaotian was overjoyed. He hurriedly said, "Thank you, Your Highness! Thank you, Your Majesty! Such boundless imperial grace brings Xiaotian to tears of gratitude."
Qiqi said, "Although that is His Majesty's intention, this matter cannot be rushed."
Hu Xiaotian had thought it was already settled, only for Qiqi to leave the rest hanging until now. Apparently, it would not happen anytime soon. So she was just saying it! She got my hopes up for nothing.
Qiqi said, "Over the past two years, storms have swept through Great Kang's court, and civil and military officials have been replaced repeatedly. Now that His Majesty has returned to the throne, he wishes to reappoint the loyal ministers and capable generals of the past. But if personnel changes happen too quickly, many officials will resent them, and the consequences could even spiral out of control."
Hu Xiaotian nodded. Qiqi's words made perfect sense; they were certainly not an excuse to brush him off.
Qiqi said, "So we must proceed one step at a time. First, we must stabilize the current situation. Only then can we clear the names of those wronged ministers, one by one. But rest assured, Lord Hu can continue serving in the Ministry of Revenue, and I intend to grant you an official post as well."
Secretly delighted, Hu Xiaotian asked, "What position does Your Highness intend to give me?"
Qiqi said, "Mr. Hong rendered meritorious service in putting down the rebellion. His Majesty has specially appointed him Commandant of the Capital, placing him in charge of the Heavenly Secrets Bureau. He will supervise the officials of Capital City and investigate misconduct in