Zhou Ruiyuan waited a full two hours in Linglong Pavilion before Qiqi returned. He hurriedly rose to greet her.
Qiqi smiled. "Sorry for keeping you waiting, Lord Zhou."
Zhou Ruiyuan smiled. "I took the opportunity to admire the treasures in the royal collection. I rarely get such a chance."
Qiqi nodded, her gaze settling on the Seven-Treasure Jade Tree beside them. She said softly, "No treasure is as precious as grain. If it could buy Great Kang a bountiful harvest this autumn, I would gladly trade every item in this collection."
Zhou Ruiyuan said, "Your Highness's concern for the country and its people is truly a blessing for us all."
Qiqi said, "I just went to see His Majesty and tried to reason with him."
Zhou Ruiyuan asked, "How did it go?"
Qiqi slowly shook her head. "He places far too much importance on the Imperial Mausoleum. I don't know who has bewitched him, but he believes he can remain immortal within it after dying a natural death."
Zhou Ruiyuan had just witnessed Long Xuan'en's obsession and brutality firsthand, so Qiqi's words came as no surprise. He said quietly, "Perhaps His Majesty will change his mind once his anger has cooled."
Qiqi fixed her clear eyes on Zhou Ruiyuan. "Why didn't you dare argue your case, Chancellor?"
Zhou Ruiyuan said, "His Majesty was in a fury. Whatever I said, he would not have listened."
Qiqi said, "All of you are simply afraid of drawing fire onto yourselves. I have always regarded you as my own uncle, Chancellor."
Zhou Ruiyuan hastily bowed. "I am overwhelmed and fearful!"
His attitude displeased Qiqi. Her delicate brows knitted slightly. "What are you afraid of? Why should you be fearful?"
Qiqi's questions left Zhou Ruiyuan momentarily speechless. Before he could answer, she continued, "As a