Beneath the uneven leg of the table lies a stack of ten tattered silk edicts. They read: 19th Day of the Twel…
Beneath the uneven leg of the table lies a stack of ten tattered silk edicts. They read:
19th Day of the Twelfth Month, 946 CE
The Han honored meritorious ministers, swearing oaths as enduring as the Yellow River. The Zhou esteemed their elder statesmen, granting them lands by the sea. It has long been known that Elder Raven of Mohist Hill is a man of great virtue and high merit. We therefore bestow rewards in his honor, namely gold, silver, vessels, brocade crowns, saddled horses, and the like, all as listed separately.
20th Day of the Twelfth Month, 946 CE
Elder Raven's heart and conduct are unlike those of ordinary men. Modest in virtue, keen in mind, broad in generosity, and rooted in benevolence, he once led the mountain folk into Paradise and settled them there in peace, spending himself utterly in their service. Such conduct inspires reverence like a lofty peak, and We have long held him in admiration. He is hereby specially raised to the rank of Grandmaster of Mohist Hill and granted an iron charter. All affairs within the mountain are entrusted to his discretion. We hope that you will accept Our transforming influence and follow Our teachings, and that you will labor all the more for the sake of Our far-reaching designs, in reverent obedience to this gracious command.
...
28th Day of the Twelfth Month, 946 CE
Edict to Raven of Mohist Hill: We have come to govern the northern marches and bring peace to the four seas, ever dealing with others in sincerity, in hopes that all under Heaven may know peace. Yet the Mohists, for all the favor and rewards bestowed upon them, and for all the pains taken to win them over, still conceal hearts full of treachery. Once arrows fly, the worthy and the worthless are not easily told apart. Yet the gate of renewed fortune still stands open, and the will to spare life ought to be understood. You alone have spoken with Us and know the sincerity of Our intentions. Thus We issue this edict, trusting that you will understand.