6 – Claws – First Blood – Sky and Water in Opposition

Dogs will bark while tiger hunch and bare claws. The crowd falls silent to observe the ensuing conflict. Attempting the middle passage will bring some recourse, but finality can only be recourse through opposition. It is advised to take council from a wise elder nearby and not to travel; for this would surly lead to a watery grave.

1^st – Clipping the Claws – Sometimes Karma may only be resolved by carrying the conflict to the finish. Other times it is better to hold our tongue and to let things pass. This is one of those times when it is advised to shift our focus away from the conflict and to let the tension fade away with the passage of time. By doing so, we accord with the balance of Heaven and Earth. Say Nothing!

2^nd – Retracting the Claws – The wise man knows when he is overwhelmed. To continue to fight will lead to our ultimate demise. Better to place pride in our pocket, gathering our most loyal followers and make a hasty retreat to the mountains. There is no shame in continued life.

3^rd – Sharpening the Claws – Cultivating our own power may lead to jealously in others. They may try to attack, but their power is uncultivated and easily put down. Thus said, it is still not advisable to step into the public sphere, for there still be much work to be done on the homefront.

4^th – Covering the Claws – The conflict cannot be resolved through further warfare. An offer of peace must be made and accepted if there be hope for either party.

5^th – Barring the Claws – The desert wind rests on our left shoulder. We should attack immediately and without remorse. Our cause is mandated by Heaven and victory is assured by the hand that writes the future as if it were the past.

6^th – Respecting the Claws – The wise warrior buries his fallen enemy with armor and sword intact. This is to say that prizes won in battle should be left with the deceased. To wear a dead mans crown will only bring misfortune.

All Six – Cleaning the Claws – There is a time for action and a time for not. Better now to take a solitary walk to the river and wash our claws in the sand. It is strongly advised to rest or take a relaxing journey.