Chapter 203 – Audience

The naval office of Jinhaiwei had hosted banquets with foreign envoys and merchants before, and this time was no exception and was held on an open-air beach lawn under pavilions decorated with fresh flowers. After watching the drills, although the view wasn’t as clear from the shore as it was from the building where the emperor and his ministers were, many people had brought their own telescopes and saw the drills taking place. Naturally, they all had their plans in mind.

After the exercises, the soldiers naturally rested on their warships. Only Commander Sheng Changtian and Huo Shiduo disembarked onto the island, along with commanders and envoys from various fleets, and were guided to their seats by naval officials. In the music-filled air, they lifted glasses filled with fine wine, introducing themselves and conversing. The food was self-served, flowing endlessly.

Fresh sashimi and fruit were placed on ice platters, a dazzling sight. The chefs responsible for service cut open freshly roasted lamb and pork, serving them to the guests. There were copper tripods and braziers with wire grills, roasting shellfish, fish, beef, and other meats sprinkled with pepper, cinnamon, and other spices. The aroma spread for miles, permeating the entire island and beach. Even the emperor and his ministers atop the Wuxiang Tower caught whiffs of the scent.

Such a banquet had been held several times by the naval office, and the foreigners were accustomed to it. The officers and men aboard the warships were also used to such events, but the ministers found it quite novel, some muttering about how inappropriate and disrespectful it was, lacking decorum and being crude, akin to public feasts held on the streets. Some worried if the Marquis of Lianhai wouldn’t really invite the Emperor to dine in such an open-air setting? That would hardly be proper.

Xu Chun smiled and invited Xie Yi, “A banquet has been set up on the second floor; please proceed, Your Majesty.”

Xie Yi reached out to hold his arm and stood up, entering the room with him while whispering, “Do you have a place to stay here?”

Xu Chun’s eyes lit up, glancing back at Su Huaibei and Fang Zixing who were following behind. He lowered his voice, “There’s a small attic… but just not return to the palace… the ministers might try to dissuade us.”

Xie Yi whispered, “Just make a show of boarding the ship, and let them return on the Thousand Autumns.”

Xu Chun knew Xie Yi wanted to spend the night on the island with him, and he grew even happier. Taking advantage of the dim lighting inside where the ministers couldn’t see, he boldly reached into Xie Yi’s sleeve, firmly touching from his wrist to his elbow.

Xie Yi didn’t bother with him, merely walking further inside. Xu Chun was satisfied with his bold move, thinking about how happy he would be tonight, spending it with Xie Yi on the island without those annoying ministers. In an instant, several fun and delicious things flashed through his mind, wishing that the banquet could end right away so he could rush off to stargaze with Xie Yi.

When they entered the banquet hall of the Wuxiang Tower, it was brightly illuminated by splendid crystal lamps. The seating arrangement resembled that of court, which made the officials feel more comfortable, as if they could finally settle into their positions according to rank. The ministers arranged themselves with the civil officials on the east side and the military officials on the west, inviting the Emperor to ascend to his seat and performing the three bows ritual.

Xie Yi excused them from the formalities and ordered the ministers to take their seats, instructing, “Fan Muchun, draft an edict to reward the commanders and soldiers of the drill. Duke Wu Ying and Su Huaibei, go down and announce the edict, rewarding the troops. Everyone must be tired today, since venturing out to sea is rare for you all, you can also go down and experience the overseas customs, converse with the foreigners, and broaden your horizons. Return to the ship by You hour (5 to 7 PM).”

When the named ministers stood up to receive the order, Fan Muchun wrote the edict for rewards as easily as drinking water, completing it with a flourish of his brush. He presented it to Xie Yi, who glanced over it and approved, stamping it with the seal. Fang Zixing then took the edict with Su Huaibei and went downstairs with the rewards that had been prepared beforehand.

Soon, thunderous cheers of “Long Live” echoed from below.

Amidst the cheering, the banquet began. Normally, there were only three toasts during the banquet, but since Prime Minister Ouyang was absent, Duke Wu Ying, the highest-ranking official present, led the officials in offering the toasts. In the blink of an eye, the three toasts were completed. Music and dance performances began, featuring several exotic-looking Hu women performing the Hu Xuan Dance, beating hand drums, bells jingling on their wrists and ankles. Their curly hair, resembling waves and seaweed, was adorned with shimmering golden beads that glittering with their graceful movements, like countless burning flames, instantly igniting the atmosphere of the banquet.

Jiang Mei quietly approached Xu Chun and said, “The envoy and naval commander of Lionharmony wish to meet His Majesty. Also, the envoys of Lucia and Crimson Moon say they want to see the Emperor.”

Xu Chun glanced at Xie Yi, who appeared to be watching the dance performance, but when he slightly moved away, Xie Yi’s gaze followed him. He secretly chuckled and walked up to Xie Yi, whispering, “The envoy and the naval commander of Lionharmony want to meet you, and the envoys of the two other participating countries in the drill also have the same intention.”

Xie Yi pondered for a moment, looking down at the ministers who were immersed in the joyful atmosphere, whispering among themselves. Although they were greatly shocked by the military power of Western countries today, and were gaining a sense of crisis, they still might not be concerned enough.

However, the intentions of the other party were unknown, and there was still a trade document waiting to be negotiated. It would be good to see them now, but it shouldn’t be in a public setting.

After considering, he told Xu Chun, “Have a private audience in the side pavilion.” Then, to Su Huaibei, he said, “Let Duke Wu Ying, He Zhiqiu, and Fan Muchun accompany me.”

Xu Chun hurriedly agreed and personally went downstairs to escort them.

Xie Yi rose, accompanied by Fang Zixing, and left the banquet. All the ministers hastily stood up to send off the imperial carriage, then watched as the little eunuch came over and called Duke Wu Ying, He Zhiqiu, and Fan Muchun inside. They didn’t know where the Marquis of Lianhai had gone, suspecting there was some sort of mission.

One remarked, “It’s probably the Western envoys paying homage. After all, it’s not a formal tribute ceremony, but we can’t lose face. A private meeting is appropriate.”

Another said, “I vaguely heard that Lionharmony proposed very unreasonable trade terms. The cabinet originally wanted to reject them outright, but the Emperor seems to still be interested in trade. There’s likely going to be a negotiation.”

“Is that news true?”

“It should be around seventy to eighty percent accurate. The cabinet hasn’t really restricted discussion on this matter, but they didn’t take it seriously since they thought it was just a barbarian country. They assumed the Marquis of Lianhai was exaggerating. Now, it seems the Western countries are far from weak. With strong ships, powerful cannons, and mechanical skills, judging from the Emperor’s intentions, he wants to establish trade.”

The scholars of the Hanlin Academy and the palace painters, who were the lowest in rank among those present, were seated at the end with the imperial physicians. Seeing Fan Muchun leave his seat and enter with the guidance of an eunuch, someone couldn’t help but sourly comment, “Previously, drafting edicts was handled by Brother Zhuang, but today, it’s Scholar Fan’s turn again.”

Zhuang Zhizhan was drinking when he heard this and laughed. “Who dares compare to Scholar Fan? He is truly the Emperor’s cousin.”

Although he had previously remained calm, he finally felt a hint of jealousy now. On one hand, he sensed that his words today had gone against the Emperor’s wishes. On the other hand, the Emperor had treated him with great favor and appreciation for his literary talent. Yet, he had selected Fan Muchun to draft the edict and summoned him to accompany him in the meeting. It was clearly evident that the Emperor believed his edict wasn’t fitting, and Fan Muchun’s version better aligned with his intentions.

He looked at the military officials’ table, where everyone surrounded Sheng Changtian, talking, then went downstairs together, apparently intending to socialize with the officers of various countries. Zhuang Zhizhan thought about it and got up, saying, “I’ll go down and meet those foreigners. Are you coming?”

Many of these scholars had long wanted to go down and take a look, but they dared not leave while the Emperor was present. Now, seeing Zhuang Zhizhan take the lead, they hurriedly stood up, “Scholar Zhuang, I’ll go down with you, so we are not alone.”

Gradually, most of the guests went to the outdoor buffet on the beach.

Meanwhile, another arrangement was made at the Starbathing Pavilion for the Emperor to meet with the envoys.

Xu Chun personally led the envoys of Lionharmony, Crimson Moon, and Lucia, along with the commanding generals of today’s warships, to the second floor of the Starbathing Pavilion. Seeing Fang Zixing personally guarding outside, he reported to him, and soon after, Fang Zixing came out and said, “His Majesty orders that the envoys of the three countries come in together.”

Xu Chun went in to introduce the envoys, who had varying protocols but all performed their respective countries’ rituals for meeting a monarch. Xie Yi didn’t mind, only ordering them to be excused from the formalities and granting them seats.

Xu Chun introduced the envoy of Lionharmony first: “Your Majesty, this is Captain Wilt of Lionharmony and Envoy Roland. They came to our dynasty hoping to establish friendly trade relations.”

Wilt stepped forward and bowed slightly, speaking in Lionharmony. Jiang Mei translated, “It is an honor to meet Your Majesty today. I am entrusted by Her Majesty the Queen to convey the goodwill of our prime minister, wishing to establish friendly relations and mutual trade benefits with the Mu Dynasty.”

Xie Yi nodded slightly and asked, “I’ve seen the trade agreement for mutual benefit, but since it’s a mutual benefit between two countries, there must be a letter of credence. Sending only a captain to deliver the trade agreement is the first disrespect of your country; bypassing the notification to the naval office and approaching our maritime borders with warships without the approval of our envoy is the second disrespect of your country.”

He slowed his speech but maintained a dignified demeanor. Jiang Mei translated Xie Yi’s words one by one.

Wilt, although not victorious in the drill, firmly believed that it was due to their insufficient preparation and the inability to use firearms during the exercise. Of course, he did have some apprehension about the strength of the Mu Dynasty’s navy, knowing that if real firearms were used, the other side could also use them.

But the soldiers’ shouts of “Long Live” as they knelt to receive the edict, the ceremonial announcement upon entry, and the intimidating presence of the guards carrying swords made him more restrained, realizing it wasn’t the time to be arrogant. The emperor on the throne, whom he saw from afar as a young man, spoke clearly and with authority.

A few words hit his vulnerable spot, leaving him momentarily at a loss for words. Envoy Roland quickly explained, “We apologize for our rudeness, Your Majesty. Your vastness and magnanimity prove that the Mu Dynasty is indeed a land of etiquette, hospitable and welcoming. We are deeply grateful for the hospitality we received today. Please forgive our rudeness, Your Majesty. Next time, our country will follow diplomatic protocol to submit a letter of credence for an audience.”

Only then did Xie Yi continue, “Our country is a land of etiquette, and we are not holding your rudeness against you this time. We still invited you for joint military exercises and summoned the envoys, showing our country’s tolerance. Upon your return, convey My intentions to the queen and prime minister.”

“For mutual trade benefits, equality is required. All the clauses must apply to both countries. Therefore, take back this trade agreement. When the letter of credence and the envoy capable of deciding on the negotiation of the trade agreement arrive, we can talk then.”

Jiang Mei translated this time very quickly, clearly having been instructed by Xu Chun regarding the bottom line.

Wilt and Roland looked embarrassed, realizing the Emperor was indicating their lowly ranks, unworthy of discussing such matters, and also criticizing their lack of diplomatic protocol. But they indeed had ill intentions first, so they could only bow and agree to withdraw.

Xu Chun then introduced the officer of Lucia: “Your Majesty, this is Captain Aurel of Lucia. He is a captain in the Lucia navy and is on his way to the South Seas on a mission, passing through our waters and submitting an application to the naval office.”

Xie Yi looked at Captain Aurel standing up, extremely tall, appearing to be in his forties, with a pair of dark green eyes and a head of lush reddish-brown hair tied back. He wore a dark green dress uniform and boots.

He saluted with his hand on his shoulder and spoke a long string of words. However, he had brought a translator with him. The translator stepped forward and replied, “Captain Aurel is commissioned by the empress to seek trade opportunities in the South Seas. He is honored to have received assistance and hospitality from your country during his voyage.”

Xie Yi was intrigued. “So Lucia is also ruled by an empress?”

Aurel replied, “Yes, our great Winter Palace Empress, in order to expand overseas trade and find suitable ports, sent me to lead my troops southward to seek opportunities.”

Xie Yi raised his eyebrows, showing interest. “Seeking suitable ports?” Did they not have suitable ports in their own territory? Were they planning to bring their warships to other countries to find better ports? What would happen once they found them?

Aurel seemed to realize his slip of the tongue and hastily covered up, “Primarily seeking opportunities for trade cooperation with various countries.”

Xie Yi smiled slightly and nodded, commending their bravery in today’s drill and rewarding them with some gifts. Only then did Aurel retreat to his seat.

At this time, the envoy of Crimson Moon, Iwa Nakazuki, approached in small steps, unhesitatingly bowing deeply. He then said, “During today’s drill, the commander of the warship was eager to win and, without consultation, fired at the mountain peak of Changle Island. This is an unforgivable crime. We have detained the commander who used the cannon without permission, and we beg Your Majesty’s forgiveness.”

Xie Yi didn’t speak but turned his head slightly to look at Fang Zixing.

Fang Zixing stepped forward angrily and scolded, “You island barbarians, having already submitted, how can you not know that using the cannon is an act of aggression against our territory! Clearly, you intentionally committed this offense with malicious intent, deserving of severe punishment! Guards! Drive these villains out immediately!”

Sweat drenched Iwa Nakazuki’s clothes, but he saw Fang Zixing continue to scold Xu Chun, “Marquis of Lianhai! How dare you bring such impolite and despicable villains before the Emperor, sullying the imperial gaze and disgracing our country! This is unacceptable! Please, Your Majesty, punish him!”

Xu Chun hurriedly stepped forward to plead for Iwa Nakazuki, “Please, Your Majesty, calm your anger, Duke Wu Ying, calm your anger. Since Iwa Nakazuki was pardoned by Your Majesty’s grace and allowed to return to his country, he volunteered to be an envoy and contributed much to Crimson Moon’s submission and allegiance. This time, he really didn’t know. Why not give him another chance, allowing him to take their criminal back, have their ruler punish him, and compensate us for the damage to our island. If it is unsatisfactory, we can mobilize forces to punish them later.”

Fang Zixing angrily said, “These villains repeatedly bully our dynasty and violate our borders. They deserve immediate execution, their heads sent back to their ruler, to see if they dare do it again.”

Xu Chun hurriedly pleaded again and again, his words sincere. Even He Zhiqiu and Fan Muchun stepped out to plead for Xu Chun, saying, “The Marquis of Lianhai merely wanted to arrange a grand inspection. The island barbarians have only submitted three years ago, and they wouldn’t dare to do such a thing. Besides, they only had one warship, unlikely to provoke trouble on their own. It must have been an accident caused by a subordinate.”

“The southeast has only recently stabilized, and it’s unwise to mobilize troops again. Please, Your Majesty, think twice.”

Only then did Xie Yi slowly speak, “Enough, let’s follow what the Marquis of Lianhai suggested. First, expel them back to their country and discuss the compensation conditions. We’ll deliberate further. If it doesn’t satisfy our dynasty, we will definitely mobilize troops to punish them, warning the other vassal states and barbarians…”

His face was cold, and his tone was stern. “If anyone violates even a blade of grass or tree in our dynasty, we will certainly punish them.”