Apart from Chu Emperor Xiang Yu and his strategist Fan Zeng, the Great Chu Imperial Dynasty had always tacitly regarded Xiang Ta, the flawless Chu chancellor, as its foremost figure. Even such important ministers as Heaven-Calming Grand Commandant Cao Jiu, Eight-Faced Director of Guests Wu She, Chief Censor Song Yi, and Generals Chen Wu and Zhongli Mei clearly fell short of him, at least in status and influence.
Besides Xiang Ta's skill in dealing with people, his indifference to fame and fortune, and his excellent relations with others, this also had much to do with his being a direct descendant of the Xiang Clan.
Seeing Xiang Ta submit so readily, the faces of the Great Chu contingent changed dramatically, showing indignation, anger, reluctance, shock, confusion, and more.
Xiao Ying regarded Xiang Ta with a grave gaze. Rather than the delight everyone had expected, he merely gave a flat response: "Mm."
Then nothing followed. He did not even tell Xiang Ta to rise!
There was neither a grand welcome nor courteous praise. Clearly, Xiao Ying was also surprised that Xiang Ta had submitted so readily. Amid his confusion and astonishment, he himself became less forthcoming.
The reason was simple: Xiang Ta was far too shrewd, and his absolute loyalty to the Great Chu Imperial Dynasty was something no one doubted. His personal influence over Great Chu's remnants was also immense. Instead of feeling the delight of acquiring a top-tier talent, Xiao Ying became even more cautious!
"Huh?!"
Xiang Ta's ready submission had surprised everyone present; Huan Emperor Xiao Ying's cold response surprised them all once again, before they began pondering and reflecting.
They pondered why Xiang Ta had submitted so readily and reflected on why the Huan Emperor had responded so coldly!
"Your Majesty!"
Amid the oppressive atmosphere, Marquis of Strategic