Through this conversation with Li Yuncong, Hu Xiaotian realized that although Li Yuncong, Murong Zhan, and Hong Beimo had joined forces to overthrow Ji Feihua and restore the old emperor to power, the three did not seem quite as close-knit as he had imagined.
After taking his leave of Li Yuncong, Hu Xiaotian left the Imperial Palace. At last, he could enter and leave the Imperial City openly and honorably. Upon returning from Great Yong, he had wanted to visit his father, who was still confined to Shuijing'er Alley, at the first opportunity. But without knowing the Imperial Court's attitude toward him, he had not dared act rashly. Now he had finally regained his identity as a man, and Qiqi had entrusted him with an important responsibility. He felt that his life had turned a new page that very day. No longer would he have to live in hiding.
The authority of the Five-Colored Coiling Dragon Gold Plaque was beyond question. News spread quickly within the Imperial Palace, especially since, at Hu Xiaotian's direction, Shi Xuedong had already had the little eunuchs of the Palace Gardens Bureau spread word of his meritorious service and rewards as widely and swiftly as possible. Most of the eunuchs, palace maids, and guards now knew of this newly risen dignitary.
Wherever Hu Xiaotian went, palace servants bowed to him from afar, whether they knew him or not. He had never enjoyed such courtesies when he was a eunuch.
Hu Xiaotian went to the Directorate of Imperial Stables to requisition a carriage. Although Fan Zongxi was not there, its supervising eunuch, Fu Gui, was another old acquaintance of his. Fu Gui was also one of the pieces Quan Dean had placed within the Imperial Palace. Now that Quan Dean had once again become the foremost