In ancient times, it was customary for men to grow beards. A well-grown and well-groomed beard was a sign of a handsome man, and could even earn one the title of "Mr. Mei."
Of course, not everyone grew a beard out of vanity. Some did it to appear more authoritative.
For most, however, a beard was the mark of a man—an indispensable part of his identity.
Furthermore, the ancients abided by the saying: "Your body, from your hair to your skin, is a gift from your parents. You must not dare to harm it."
This didn't mean one couldn't ever cut their hair or beard. Otherwise, wouldn't it all be dragging on the floor?
So, the custom likely meant that one couldn't wantonly damage their hair and beard without good reason, but routine trimming and grooming were acceptable.
Therefore, when considering a gray-haired old man who didn't even have a beard, Ji Huan could think of only one possibility: a eunuch.
