Clouded vision

Two different cultures have different methods of achieving the same result.

They say that eyes are the window to the soul. I say that they are windows to the mind. Deceitful, clouded windows of emotion.

True, hidden emotions are visible to outsiders. But those glimpses are rare and guarded from anyone with any practice. Only the untrained, or ignorant, let anyone have more than a flash of realization.

The Reamleds are notorious for training their children in the ways of hiding emotions and thoughts. It is said that they don’t even allow for emotion to be shown on their face at all. I am here to tell you that this is true.

On the other end of the spectrum, the Gulangsu want their children to be as emotive as possible. What they teach them is how to hide their true feelings with a mask of pretenses.

What right do I have to tell you these things? That is a question that is often asked. And my subordinates labor over the answer day after day. They know not what to tell you.

I know these things because I was there. I have mingled with both clans. I have seen the ways of the desert and the ways of the mountains.

I am the hidden one. The one the tales all tell about. Should you like to know the truth, you need only listen.