“You have now learned the valuable lesson, Dee, that law and custom are only there for the common people; they don't apply to exalted persons like me.”
In his line of work, Dee is subject to a great deal of propriety which often complicates his job. As Mr. Hua so readily explains in this quotation, the law often exempts the wealthy and aristocratic from punishment. Dee, however, as a member of the highest class refuses to allow anyone to escape the full measure of his particular brand of justice.
“Justice outweighs human life.”
As frightening as this declaration may be, it's what Dee truly believes. His primary motivation when conducting his work affair is justice to its furthest extent. He believes the law must be intimidating, even terrifying, to citizens in order for them to comport themselves befitting a civilized society. This is why he will stop at nothing -- intimidation, deception, torture, even death -- in order to learn the truth from a suspect or witness.
“Though everything will seem dark to you now, remember that even behind the darkest clouds of night there shines the moon of dawn.”
Dee is relentless in all aspects of his life. When a case seems particularly troubling, he takes time to realign himself with his goals. He believes that truth will also make itself known; the question is merely to make yourself amenable and open to the truth.
“I belong to that small group of chosen people, who because of their superior knowledge and talents are far above ordinary human rules and limitations. We have advanced beyond such conventional notions as ‘good' and ‘bad'.”
Again, this statement demonstrates the elitist mentality which the Chinese class system instills in its citizens. Mr. Hua considers himself above the law, a dangerous perspective in Judge Dee's legal district. Dee himself is a member of the Literati, having been well-educated for years and having risen through the ranks of the legal structure to this astute position. He makes it his personal mission to prove Mr. Hua wrong.
