Inside the Chamber of Rocks were hundreds of ghosts, all chained to black lacquered columns. Each ghost carried a rock above his head so heavy that if it fell, it would certainly crush him. Mulan couldn’t look at them without feeling pity. “Don’t mind them,” said Mei. “I had to do it for a while, too. Twelve years, thirty-four days, and five hours.” She shuddered. “It’s best not to pay them any heed.” “Is this how ghosts are punished?” Mulan asked. “If you deserve it,” said Mei airily. “Or if King Yama’s in a bad mood when you greet him.”
A form of punishment
