Chapter 81 – The Scapegoat

“What? Wu Ying Hou donated money and books to the Naval Academy?” Governor of Min Province, Lei Ming, abruptly stood up. “What does Fang Qinlian want to do?”

He was both surprised and angry, pacing back and forth. “Guang Province has its own Maritime Trade Office; other provinces have eunuchs appointed by the court, but on his side, they still handle the salt and iron special projects, all under Pingnan Prefecture’s jurisdiction, fattening their coffers. Although he withdrew his fiefdom, the title of Duke and Marquis can still be passed down to two sons. He is reaching out to me with such audacity. Does he not fear the current emperor’s suspicion?”

An aide whispered, “I heard that it was the Duke of Jingguo’s heir who came to Min Province to visit relatives and brought the donation along. When I asked the head of the Yuehai Trading Company, they seemed unaware of it. They only mentioned that Wu Ying Hou entrusted the Duke of Jingguo’s heir to bring some spices, seeds, and so on to Old Duke in Pingnan Prefecture in Guangdong. Nothing about donations was mentioned.”

“I had someone check those books. They indeed bear the seal ‘Viewing the Sea Tower.’ Duke Pingnan, Fang Min, had indeed named his collection ‘Viewing the Sea Tower’. And those cannon-making techniques, no ordinary household would dare to keep them. I suspect that Duke Pingnan is using his eldest son to show loyalty. Didn’t the current emperor praise his family for their good sense, being the first to submit their withdrawal from the fiefdom?”

Lei Ming sneered. “At that time, the three regions of Gui, Dian, and Qian had many bandits, and the imperial court stationed large forces there. Not to mention, the local chieftains of these three regions were each fierce and bold, yet they followed the court’s orders. Had Duke Pingnan dared to say no at that time, armies from three directions could have flattened Pingnan Prefecture immediately. He might be called the king of the southwest, but it was only because of the region’s prosperity. If it came to a fight, who knows what would happen?”

An aide whispered, “I heard that Wu Ying Hou didn’t just donate silver and books. He also recommended two teachers, one skilled in shipbuilding and the other a Western doctor skilled in surgery. It is said that once the academy is built, they will teach there.”

Lei Ming suddenly turned his face. “Is this information true?”

The aide replied, “How could it not be? Those two teachers arrived even before the Duke of Jingguo’s heir. They have been staying at the Sheng residence for over a month now, even bringing their families. There must have been a connection long before this.”

Lei Ming sneered. “No wonder the Sheng family isn’t in a hurry. I was going to play hardball with them, thinking that they would get cocky because they have high-ranking relatives in the capital. What is the Duke of Jingguo in the capital? Who cares about him? The Sheng family thinks they’ve climbed a higher social ladder, looking down on others and ignoring everyone, including me, the governor. Do they think they’re supported by Eunuch Xia? What’s the point of having a royal trading license if they still have to bow their heads to me? It turns out they’ve also connected with Duke Pingnan.”

He sat back in his seat and decisively ordered, “Tell people to immediately transfer one hundred thousand taels of tax silver to Zhao Yu, saying that we’ve recovered some funds and sent them over promptly, not daring to delay the imperial mission. Have him expedite his duties and not disappoint the emperor’s grace.”

An aide was puzzled. “Governor, no matter how strong Duke Pingnan is, he can’t interfere in our Min Province. Wu Ying Hou is also an idle man married to a princess, not holding any official position. Why should you be wary of him?”

Lei Ming replied, “Isn’t he precisely an idle man? The key lies in this idleness. Fang Qinlian took the opportunity to recommend two insignificant teachers as a test. In a while, he might directly arrange for his idle eldest son to serve the emperor, becoming the chief instructor of this Naval Academy! He also has a son by the emperor’s side, ready to speak up for his older brother at any time. It wouldn’t be difficult to secure a leisurely position for him.”

“This Naval Academy is meant to cultivate naval talent and grant naval officer positions. Fang Qinlian already has his second son by the current emperor’s side. His eldest son coming here to be the chief instructor of the Naval Academy… His appetite is so big, his reach so long. Can’t he see if he can handle it!”

With the governor’s silver transferred, Old Patriarch Sheng visited Old Patriarch Zhang regarding his illness again. Soon, rumors spread everywhere, saying that the Zhang family also donated. Both sides denied it, but soon enough, the Fan family also sent someone over. First, they donated one hundred thousand taels; second, they sent an invitation, inviting the three young masters of the Sheng family and Duke of Jingguo Xu Heir to enjoy the winter orchid feast.

Xu Chun naturally declined due to mourning. He let Sheng Changzhou take his two younger brothers to the banquet. When they returned, he laughed, saying that the Fan family seemed to hold no grudges and didn’t mention marriage at all. They only spoke of superficial pleasantries, but they were much more courteous than before when they didn’t look too highly upon the Sheng family.

In the end, only the Bao family stubbornly held out, donating only three thousand taels. Major merchants in Min Province gradually came forward to donate, ranging from tens of thousands to several thousand. Soon, the main gate was visibly completed. On this day, Zhao Yu arrived with a simple entourage, following Sheng Changzhou to inquire about Xu Chun’s illness.

Although Xu Chun was still unwell, when Lord Zhao arrived, he hurriedly got up, changed his clothes, and met with Zhao Yu.

Zhao Yu was apologetic. “I heard that the heir has been traveling and is ill. I shouldn’t disturb your recovery, but today, there is a small matter. There are many eyes and ears around me, so I had to come over and ask.”

Xu Chun returned the courtesy with a smile. “My lord, you are too kind. My maternal grandfather’s family has received much care from you these days. I should have visited, but unfortunately, I caught a cold. Plus, I’m still in mourning. This body of ill omen dares not offend you, my lord.”

Zhao Yu shook his head and sighed. “Originally, we discussed that the imperial decree said to establish the Maritime Affairs Bureau and build the Naval Academy. But the way we’ve been collecting funds mostly attracts naval talent. We thought about cultivating talents in shipbuilding, astronomy, medicine, geography, navigation, physics, chemistry, and other fields, not limited to serving the imperial navy. Outstanding individuals could be granted official positions, and the rest could further their studies in the civilian sector.”

“And not just students from Min Province. Anyone in the country who is interested in maritime affairs can come to apply. This would truly benefit the country and the people, storing talents for the nation. Therefore, we originally hoped to name this academy ‘Maritime Academy,’ making it clear that it specializes in maritime matters, not limited to the navy.”

Xu Chun looked at Sheng Changzhou. “Isn’t this great?” This was actually what he had previously discussed with his cousin. Navy was not as broad as maritime. A Maritime Academy makes it clear that the monarch’s ambition spans the seas. It seems Zhao Yu guessed that this was his idea. Today, he came specifically, but is there a change?

Zhao Yu replied, “But when I reported the progress to Governor Lei today, mentioning that the academy’s main gate was completed, he suddenly had a burst of artistic inspiration. He said he wanted to personally inscribe a plaque for the academy. Then he wrote ‘Min Province Naval Academy’ in six big characters. As the governor of Min Province, he’s the parent official. With his inscription, a few days ago, he approved one hundred thousand taels for the Maritime Affairs Bureau. I couldn’t refuse and could only take the banner.”

His face was filled with dejection. Xu Chun thought for a moment. “My lord usually discusses the planning of this academy with my cousin. You haven’t hidden much, and you came from the capital, mostly serving the local officials and messengers here. Therefore, Governor Lei must have known that you wanted to name it the Maritime Academy. This is intentional.”

Zhao Yu nodded. “Indeed. The main gate was just completed. How could it be time for inscriptions? Therefore, when I took the banner out today, I knew that someone around us had leaked our plans. It’s our fault for not treating these matters as secrets. We didn’t expect this to happen.”

Xu Chun suggested, “My lord is an imperial envoy. You can send a direct memorial to the emperor. Why not pretend you didn’t receive Governor Lei’s banner, quickly write a secret memorial, and send someone to present it to the emperor for the academy’s inscription?”

Zhao Yu was taken aback. “His Majesty rarely inscribes. Moreover, although I am an imperial envoy, sending a direct memorial to the capital still can’t bypass the cabinet. The chancellor, Ouyang Shen, is from the same hometown as Governor Lei and has always been in cahoots with him. He might have already given instructions. It might not be useful, and it would offend Chancellor Ouyang and Governor Lei. We still need Governor Lei’s support for the Maritime Affairs Bureau, and the academy has just begun. Acting like this might not be appropriate.”

Xu Chun was surprised. “Since Eunuch Xia cooperated with you, my lord, you’ve already offended Governor Lei. It’s not a big deal to add one more memorial. However, if you want to be tactful, I have a method. My lord can send the memorial to the capital’s Wu Ying Hou Mansion and ask Lord Fang Zixing to present it to the emperor. Lord Fang serves the emperor daily and can surely deliver it directly. Even if the emperor doesn’t inscribe, no one will know. This way, it won’t be considered an offense.”

Zhao Yu was startled. Remembering that Wu Ying Hou made the first donation, he somewhat believed that this Duke of Jingguo Heir was close friends with the Wu Ying Hou brothers. After considering it, he said, “Very well, I’ll try.” He cupped his hands and smiled at Xu Chun. “I’ve long heard that the heir is wise and well-versed. Indeed, reputation doesn’t compare to meeting you in person. Truly a talented young man.”

Xu Chun smiled slightly. “In the capital, I’ve also heard that Lord Zhao is a top-notch capable official, favored by the emperor. That’s why you received the imperial mission to come to Min Province to handle such a major affair. I admire you.”

This struck a chord in Zhao Yu’s heart. His expression brightened, and he cupped his hands with a smile. “It’s the emperor’s wisdom. I was dismissed from office and awaiting punishment at home. I never expected to be personally promoted and used by the emperor. I’m constantly grateful and moved, never forgetting the emperor’s grace and wisdom. I must spare no effort to complete this task well and rely on the heir and the Sheng family for guidance.”

In the capital, Palace of the Auspicious Year.

A faint scent of sandalwood wafted through the hall, exuding a tranquil atmosphere.

Xie Yi was playing chess with Wu Ying Hou, Fang Zijing. Fang Zijing was sitting slightly sideways on the couch, placing a piece with his eyes focused, showing a composed demeanor. He wore a purple robe, with a neat collar and a straight posture, completely different from the unrestrained and elegant scholar of Nanyang. He was similar to the nobles of the capital, dignified and proper, yet not particularly eye-catching.

Xie Yi placed a piece and laughed. “Wu Ying Hou’s chess style lacks vigor. It’s overly cautious and old-fashioned.”

Fang Zijing’s complexion was pale, and he chuckled softly. “Your Majesty’s chess skills are robust and refined, with ambushes on all sides and a threatening presence everywhere. I have no choice but to do my best to respond, prioritizing stability and not daring to rush forward.”

Xie Yi smiled, took a cup of tea, and asked Fang Zijing, “I suppose your family is about to become parents. Your style has become so mature and steady. I heard that Princess Heshun is pregnant. It’s truly a joy. How many months along is she? Is everything going well? Would you like a court physician to take a look?”

Fang Zijing replied, “Princess prefers sour flavors and feels nauseous. It’s just a guess, not yet a month. Zixing is rash, speaking freely in front of the emperor. I have difficulties with offspring, so it might just be false hope. Therefore, I haven’t announced it.”

Xie Yi nodded slightly and comforted him. “You don’t have to worry too much. I see that the Fang family is a blessed family. You also have late luck. It will definitely go smoothly.”

Fang Zijing entered the palace early in the morning, having thought countless times about how to answer if the emperor asked about Nanyang. However, this emperor only played chess and inquired about the princess’s pregnancy. At this moment, he suddenly mentioned late luck, seemingly implying something. He couldn’t help but gather his spirits. He had led troops in his youth and encountered numerous dangers, but none compared to the pressure he felt facing this emperor.

He racked his brains, trying to anticipate the emperor’s next question. He only respectfully replied, “I thank Your Majesty for your auspicious words. With Your Majesty’s great grace, it will surely go smoothly.”

Xie Yi remarked, “Zixing is very informal in front of me, but you are too formal.”

Fang Zijing replied, “Zixing was fortunate to accompany the emperor since childhood. The emperor values old ties, and my entire family is grateful. We wouldn’t dare forget the duties of a minister due to the emperor’s great grace.”

Xie Yi gave a half-smile and handed the teacup to the attendant beside him. He looked up and saw Su Hua holding a bright yellow box. He asked, “Where did these memorials come from? Why are they not sent to the cabinet?”

Su Hua replied, “Lord Fang Zixing delivered them. He said it was Envoy Zhao Yu’s memorial regarding the establishment of the academy.”

Xie Yi was startled. He glanced at Fang Zijing, whose expression changed slightly. Naturally, he also recalled that Zhao Yu was supposed to be setting up the Naval Academy. Why was Zixing helping Zhao Yu deliver the memorial?

Xie Yi put down the teacup and skimmed through the memorial. Suddenly, he chuckled. “What a case of a wild punch defeating the master.”

He handed the memorial to Fang Zijing. “Wu Ying Hou, take a look.”

Fang Zijing read the memorial and was somewhat bewildered. “Lord Zhao is asking the emperor to inscribe a plaque for the Maritime Academy. Will Your Majesty agree?”

Xie Yi smiled faintly. “I just received a confidential report. The governor of Min Province, Lei Ming, already inscribed ‘Min Province Naval Academy’ for this academy. Now, Zhao Yu submitted a memorial, requesting that I inscribe a plaque for the Maritime Academy.”

He looked meaningfully at Wu Ying Hou. “Between Min Province Naval Academy and Maritime Academy, which does Lord Fang prefer?”

Fang Zijing cautiously replied, “Min Province Naval Academy appears to only recruit students from Min Province and is focused on the navy. Unlike the Maritime Academy, it can recruit candidates nationwide. Naming it ‘Maritime’ gives it a larger scope.”

Zhao Yu disagreed with Governor Lei Ming and dared not confront the governor, so he could only seek help from the emperor through indirect means. But finding a path through Fang Zixing probably involved Xu Chun’s guidance behind the scenes. This youth was clever and tricky; no wonder the emperor suddenly mentioned a wild punch defeating the master. Was he talking about Prince Xu?

Xie Yi laughed. “Wu Ying Hou is indeed knowledgeable. Your words are reasonable. Then, following your advice, I shall grant this favor and inscribe a plaque for the Maritime Academy.”

Fang Zijing was dazed. Isn’t this favor for Zhao Yu? Or perhaps for the Duke of Jingguo Mansion or the Sheng family. Why say it’s for him? A foreboding feeling of something ominous being pinned onto him and his brother crept over Fang Zijing.

Xie Yi smiled. “The other day, I heard that Wu Ying Hou led the way in charitable assistance, donating one hundred twenty thousand taels to the Maritime Academy and over thirty books on warships, cannons, sea maps, and so on. It’s truly generous and noble. Now, why not name and inscribe a couplet for this Maritime Academy? It would be another fine deed.”

Fang Zijing’s mind went blank. He forgot the etiquette before the emperor and couldn’t help but raise his eyes to look at the emperor. He only saw the usually cold-faced emperor filled with amusement, the gleeful smile on his lips barely restrained.

His vision darkened. Governor Lei Ming of Min Province was warning against the Pingnan Fang family’s long reach. Their family had unintentionally made enemies and borne the brunt of an undeserved blame, truly sitting at home while trouble descended from the sky.