Letter

Letter to a Jin General

Yelu Balide

As our army pressed south, we were fortunate indeed to have your covert aid, General, ensuring swift success wherever our blades were turned. Now, by order of the Dragon Lord, we have skirted the flank of the Jin main camp and come upon this manor, where fine steeds gather and tunnels run deep, truly a splendid refuge. Little did I expect to find your private hoard hidden deep within those passages, with gold, silver, and jade vessels piled high as mountains. Could this be the very tribute you intended for our Great Khitan? Such lofty magnanimity, General! On the Dragon Lord's behalf, I shall take the liberty of accepting it in advance, with sincere thanks for your generous intent.