Empress Genmei
During the 7th century, Emperor Tenmu set about to correct inconsistencies within the national history contained in the various "Teiki" and "Kyūji" circulating with the nobles. He sorted through them and commanded Are, presently at the age of 28, to memorize them. Are was renowned for his/her intelligence: "naturally bright and intelligent, Are could recite upon reading but once and memorize upon hearing but once." Tenmu died before the work could be completed. Later, Empress Genmei ordered Ō no Yasumaro to compile the "Kojiki" based on what Are had memorized. This was completed in 712.