Qiqi gave no answer, but Hu Xiaotian could guess even without her telling him. In all likelihood, it had been Hong Beimo's idea, and Grand Tutor Wen Chenghuan might have had a hand in it too. Hu Xiaotian smiled calmly. "Li Tianheng has a wolf's ambition. Back then, he raised the banner of marching to defend the throne. Now that the emperor has returned to the throne, he never mentions bringing his army back into the fold or restoring Western Sichuan to Great Kang's territory. He is clearly determined to crown himself king. Does the emperor still harbor hopes for this man?"
Qiqi sighed. "Great Kang is besieged on all sides right now. We cannot make enemies everywhere."
Hu Xiaotian said, "So the emperor came up with this idea of making Li Tianheng a king to keep him in check?"
Qiqi said, "Since Western Sichuan is already under his control in practice, we might as well be generous. Li Tianheng may harbor thoughts of rebellion, but outwardly he still styles himself a loyal subject. He has confined my imperial uncle in Western Prefecture, and his intentions speak for themselves. If His Majesty dies a natural death one day, he will claim to represent Great Kang's legitimate line and install a puppet government under his control."
Hu Xiaotian had already heard Yang Lingqi speak of this. He nodded. "Your views happen to coincide with those of a friend of mine."
Qiqi's beautiful eyes brightened. "Who?"
Hu Xiaotian said, "A talented scholar who has never had his chance. His name is Yang Lingqi. I was just thinking of recommending him to the Imperial Court."
Qiqi said, "Arrange for me to meet him when you have the chance. The Imperial Court needs capable people right now. If he truly has talent and learning,