The only thing that surprised him a little was that His Majesty had actually learned to win people's hearts. His methods were crude, but that was only relatively speaking.
They would have little effect on someone like him, but against devoted Han officials, they would certainly inspire unwavering loyalty and tears of gratitude.
He had grown by far more than a little since his days under Dong Zhuo's control.
While Jia Xu was lost in thought, Liu Xie finished dressing, came over to take his hand again, and invited him sincerely, "My dear minister, I have already ordered a banquet prepared. Would you join me for a meal shortly?"
"You have rendered a great service in opposing Cao Cao. I must properly celebrate your achievement."
Jia Xu gathered his thoughts and smiled. "Everything shall be as Your Majesty arranges."
Liu Xie was delighted. He was just about to say something when another eunuch arrived to report, "Your Majesty, the Grand General has entered the palace to seek an audience!"
"The Grand General?"
Jia Xu frowned, but quickly remembered.
Yuan Shao had already accepted the Son of Heaven's investiture and had now been promoted to Grand General and Grand Marshal. Apparently, he was the one entering the palace.
But... why had he come so quickly?
Somewhat puzzled, Jia Xu looked at Liu Xie.
A flicker of panic crossed Liu Xie's face, but he quickly regained his composure and said with a smile, "Show him in at once!"
"No need. Your servant is already here."
Before the eunuch could withdraw, a voice rang out.
Yuan Shao and Ju Shou entered the Main Hall together.
"Greetings, Your Majesty."
After entering the hall, Yuan Shao first bowed to Liu Xie, then turned his gaze to Jia Xu and asked with feigned curiosity, "And this