"Lord Xun... isn't this approach of yours somewhat inappropriate?"
Inside the study, Sima Zhao sat in the seat of honor, with Zhong Hui and Xun Yi seated on either side.
Zhong Hui was still staring straight at Xun Yi, his eyes full of hostility.
Unmoved, Xun Yi stroked his beard and looked calmly at Sima Zhao.
Sima Zhao, however, had no doubts about Xun Yi's allegiance.
When Cao Mao had first ascended the throne, Xun Yi had sought out the two Sima brothers and told them, "Now that a new emperor has been enthroned by deposing the old one, you should promptly ascertain the attitudes of the generals throughout the realm and make preparations."
The man he had meant was naturally Guanqiu Jian.
Sima Zhao glanced at Zhong Hui and continued, "I previously discussed the choice of Junior Grand Minister of Ceremonies with you. At the time, you solemnly promised to resolve my doubts. Yet now you have recommended Wang Xiang as Grand Minister of Ceremonies. Wang Xiang has no close ties to me. Why would you do this?"
These words also served as Sima Zhao's explanation to Zhong Hui: this was not his arrangement, but entirely Xun Yi's own doing, so Zhong Hui should not blame him.
Sure enough, Zhong Hui's expression grew even uglier.
Yet Xun Yi paid no heed whatsoever to Zhong Hui before him. In family background and standing with the Sima Family, Xun Yi was not necessarily much inferior to Zhong Hui. In official rank, his position as a director of the Imperial Secretariat put him firmly above the other man. He had nothing to fear.
He said earnestly, "General, it was precisely because of the matter you mentioned that I recommended Wang Xiang as Grand Minister of Ceremonies."
"Oh? What do you mean?"
Xun