Useful Imperial Referance Books
In an effort to continue sharing the thoughts, ideas, and aspects of our respective worlds, I (Ghost Tiger) offer here a brief abstract of several very common and extremely useful books found in the Empire. These books are here in the Library and if anyone is interested I (Ghost Tiger) can translate more of them or translate more of a particular book (please send request by post).
* Apposite Terms and Definitions in Grammar For the Empire The Imperial Dictionary. Simple yet key to most understanding. This is one of the few texts that actually changes on a regular basis as approved by several committees and Justicars dedicated to proper speech and writing.
* The 989 Mandates of Nature for Meteorological Gifts and Signs This is part Weather Almanac, part Forecast guide. Also, one of the most accurate historical accounts as it dates back to the time of the Philosopher and details the consequences of weather on events and events on weather. It is where we know the "Red Sun" rose on the day the the Empire was officially formed. One should also consult the Ministry of Astrological Signs and Interpretations.
* The 1000 Steps of Warfare to Ensure Success over Enemies A book from the time of the First Emperor on how to conquer and rule. This was key to the success in battles yet was considered obsolete for nearly 9000 years. Until after the Red Hand Rebellion; when the Emperor realized the value of a trained military "behind" the Wall. This book has been restored and is used a a basis to train soldiers as well as help determine possible recruits from the Five Legged Test.
** Some key Chapters: The 961 Proficient Ways of the Extirpate Sword, The 625 Truncate Methods of Axe, The 144 Percuss Staff Techniques, The 784 Pronged Path of Dagger, The 833 Eagle Strikes of the Bow, 749 Structures of the Bludgeoning Mace, Hurtling 841 Wind-Steps of a Thrown Weapon, etc…
* The 450 Pleasant Ceremonies Of Tea Consumption; both Formal and Casual A text on how to serve and drink tea. This highlights nearly any combination of possible social situations such as by oneself, with one other regarded as close friend, with with one other considered an equal but not close friend, with one other that is family and superior in station, with two others, one of whom is family and one of whom is colleague of lower station (etc…) up to and including Grand functions of 579 or more with only one person of superior station.
* The Celestial Guide to Harmonious Times of Feast and Drink A book to help determine when to take meals and drink based on current star positions in relation to ones own astrological signs and current state of mental and physical health. There is also a quick reference (842 pages) in case one does not know the current star positions (normally due to weather). One should also consult the Ministry of Astrological Signs and Interpretations.
* The Perfected Path of Serene Debate and Tranquil Deliberation vol. I-XXVII A book dedicated to the proper form of debate and argument. This is a multiple volume set of books (27) the least of which is well over 3000 pages; that cover all topics related, but not limited too, the order of speaking, where to sit, when to start, when to finish, the best hour, day, and month to do such a thing, etc…
* Humble Musings of Silk and Cherry I - XII A twelve series book of poetry. This is the definitive work by which all other forms of poetry are required to compare. There are actually three different sets, the "Finished Series" Which includes notations and commentary on how each poem adheres to the required form and how one should shape the poetry in such a manner. The "Refined Series" which is only 4 Volumes of the all the actual poems (more for those who merely wish to enjoy the works). And the "Abridged" option which is a single book of collected works of only one style (With it’s 120 accepted forms). So a poet or reader would enjoy up to 98 (accepted) forms for each style of which there are recorded 100 (accepted) styles.
* Immaculate Brush Strokes; 981 Perfected Thoughts and Actions for Visual Arts This is a popular book on painting. It is the general guidelines for putting paint on just about any surface (home, parchment, statues, etc…). It is most popular due to the exquisite pictures that accompany each example. There are some works of art that have long since faded and are recorded only here. This does not consider the content or nature of what an artist should paint. It is also interesting to note, there are some odd inclusions and some objects that are not clear in their concept, but the style is vibrant and beautiful. This also discusses the proper paints to use (but not how or where to collect them).
* Masonry and Stone Work as Perfected in 825 Decorous Annotations The Empire methods of Statues and other Stone workings. Also includes a great amount of charts detailing the proper stones to use for various occasions and for specific uses. Does not detail the collection of said stone, merely what to work, when to work, and what to strive for. There are special chapters relating specifically what is suggested to use for the Twelfth Change in the Thirteen Harmonious Changes.
* The 988 Approved Routines of Perfected Personal Grooming for Men A detailed guide on all appropriate grooming habits and general appearances for men. This includes details on head and facial hair, bathing, and proper use of scented oils. This does NOT include the appropriate attire to wear (which would be covered in texts related to ones job and position and current weather, etc…).
* The 992 Approved Routines of Perfected Personal Grooming for Women A detailed guide on all appropriate grooming habits and general appearances for women. This includes details on hair styles, bathing, and proper use of scented oils. This does NOT include the appropriate attire to wear (which would be covered in texts related to ones job and position and current weather, etc…).
* The 974 Proper Designs of Buildings and Landscapes This guide must be used in conjunction with the 975 Fortuitous Signs of Building and Repairs. This is an architectural guide to anything that constitutes a building (as defined by Apposite Terms and Definitions in Grammar For the Empire)
* 975 Fortuitous Signs of Building and Repairs This is actually a series of charts to define signs of a astrological forecast. It is worth noting, this is not merely star charts, but also a sort of seasonal almanac and list of proper soil samples and techniques for examining and testing them. One should also consult the Ministry of Astrological Signs and Interpretations.
Rites and Honors Due in Quietus This is the handbook for Justicars and monks to preform the proper rituals for the dead and to honor our Ancestor Spirits.
The 972 Proper Methods of Courting and Wooing A book for young bacholors on the proper time and means for courtship and wooing. This includes vital information on the formal and informal communications to have with the potential lady as well as when and how to interact with her guardians. Some women have been known to also read this book so they may know what to expect in such situations.
Blessings of the Past, The 841 Signs and Foretelling from Ancestors Concerning Ones Life with Another This book has many details graphs and charts to help divine who a person should look for in a potential mate. Both Justicars and parents use this book to a great degree although some children will make an innocent game of such minor predictions with origami. This is also used to determine after a couple has met or if a couple seems to be having problems with their marriage.