Chu Xiong watched Old Master Jiang, who was putting on a display of meekness. He sneered inwardly. This old fellow certainly knows how to be tactful.
He spoke kindly, "How has your health been lately, Sir Jiang?"
Old Master Jiang put on an expression of being overwhelmed by an unexpected honor. He stood up, offering up both hands in a salutation, "Thank you for your concern, Your Majesty. I am old, and I am afraid my frail body will not last much longer."
After signaling for Old Master Jiang to sit down again, Chu Xiong feigned concern, "You must take care of your body, dear minister."
Old Master Jiang scoffed internally. Take care of my health? He summoned me to the Imperial Palace on this freezing day and didn't even consider my old age and feeble state. Hmph! So adept at putting on airs. He's a far cry from the Late Emperor, not just by a little bit.
"Thank you for your concern, Your Majesty."
"I remember that one of your daughters is married to General Xiao, isn't she?"
