"We have heard that the virtuous should be commended and the capable rewarded. Hu Ze, Commandery Prince of Pingqiu, has diligently led his troops with loyalty and integrity, proclaimed virtue and made Our benevolence known, upheld his principles and acted with righteousness to secure the realm. We are most pleased with him. Let him be further invested as Great General and Grand Tutor to the Crown Prince. Thus is Our decree..."
In the southern outskirts of the Sacred Capital, beneath Peng Mountain, Eunuch Yu of the Directorate of Ceremonial accompanied the Vice Minister of War of Great Qian to proclaim the decree at the temporary military camp established specifically to receive the forces from Pingqiu.
After Hu Ze accepted the decree, the assembled multitude roared their acclaim, all of them rejoicing.
The Vice Minister of War watched with an ambiguous smile, but said little. Before long, he took his leave on the pretext of returning to report.
Eunuch Yu stayed behind, however, and said to Hu Ze's Avatar, "Congratulations, Your Majesty. From this day onward, you stand at the head of Great Qian's military officers, equal in rank to the Three Excellencies. His Majesty has not appointed a Grand Marshal, but under all heaven, who could rival you in virtue and ability? Please continue your efforts. Once the lords at court have grown less resistant, you will receive further honors."
Hu Ze said, "Eunuch Yu, I hear that quite a few civil officials at court are dissatisfied with me. Some have even said, 'How dare a demon from beyond civilization lay hands on the sacred vessel of sovereignty?'"
A trace of embarrassment flashed across Eunuch Yu's face. He hastily reassured him, "It was only the nonsense of a few remonstrance officials who knew neither the height of heaven nor the