"Wang Mang was a role model followed by many," Luo Feng began, a chuckle rumbling in his throat. "Cao Cao, for instance, received the Nine Bestowments just as Wang Mang did. Though he didn't usurp the throne, his son certainly did. Sun Quan followed suit, receiving the Nine Bestowments and quickly thereafter declared himself emperor. Sima Zhao was another who received these nine honors, setting the stage for his son to establish the Jin Dynasty."
"In ancient times," Luo Feng continued, "rewards were given commensurate with the merits of the deeds done. However, at some point, there was nothing left to give as a reward. It was then that the Nine Bestowments emerged as a unique reward, elevating an individual's status above any other minister."
