An older man in tattered robes enters the Tea Room.
He proceeds to a corner. He spreads an old and ragged blanket, and sits in the lotus position. He pulls a yellowed book from the folds of his robe, along with three tarnished coins.
There is much confusion in the Tea Room. Naval Officers and Trade Captains are running about, shouting questions, seeking direction, unsure of their paths.
The old Fool on the blanket closes his eyes and focuses his mind on a simple question: "What of the KNF's future? He casts the three coins, looks at them, and opens his yellow book to the indicated page. Hexagram 31.
31. Hsien / Influence (Wooing)
above Tui The Joyous, Lake
below K?n Keeping Still, Mountain
The Judgement
Influence. Success.
Perseverance furthers.
To take a maiden to wife brings good fortune.
The Image
A lake on the mountain:
The image of Influence.
Thus the superior man encourages people to approach him
By his readiness to receive them.
(Third and fifth lines changing..)
Change in the third place means:
The influence shows itself in the thighs.
Holds to that which follows it.
To continue is humiliating.
Change in the fifth place means:
The influence shows itself in the back of the neck.
No remorse.
The old man closes his eyes again, and meditates on his answer.