Chapter 83 – Minister and Monarch

Governor Lei Ming knelt in the main hall, drenched in sweat despite the chill of December, with the cold floor sending shivers up his spine.

Xie Yi seemed rather at ease, seated above with a token from the governor’s desk in his hand, casually examining it while saying, “Your family hails from a military lineage, inheriting a position within the court. During your time as a deputy minister in the Ministry of War, you were ambitious and made quite an impact with your bold words. The emperor has taken note of you.”

“There are many bandits in Fujian Province, so the Ministry of Personnel considered selecting someone from the border generals. But I thought, why not give you a chance? Indeed, since taking office, you have served the country with utmost dedication, not disappointing my expectations. You personally led the troops, launching attacks on land and water, wiping out tens of thousands of bandits in Green Banyan Fort, Dou Family Fort, and Four Matrons Bay, capturing and executing over a thousand, achieving repeated victories. You also set up lookout towers and patrol boats, maintained constant vigilance, brought great peace to Fujian Province, cleared out the bandits, and earned the gratitude of the fishermen. Your accomplishments are truly commendable.”

Lei Ming’s eyes welled up as he recalled the past when he had devoted himself to serving the nation and his sovereign. Choking back sobs, he said, “It is thanks to the emperor’s grace. As a subject, I am duty-bound to repay the emperor with my life.”

“The court nurtures scholars through the imperial examinations, which are the primary path, while the aristocracy’s recommendations serve as a supplementary method. However, even those selected through the exams may not necessarily be virtuous officials. Your family, having a long history in the military, should understand this principle.”

“Mighty generals arise from the ranks, and prime ministers emerge from provincial governors.”

“The emperor’s intention in establishing the naval academy in Fujian should be clear to you.”

Lei Ming wept bitterly, filled with regret, fully aware of the grand ambitions of the young monarch who had already shown promise. “I was shortsighted and selfish, prioritizing personal gain and biases, forgetting the emperor’s great kindness and neglecting the welfare of the state. Upon receiving the emperor’s calligraphy, I realized my grave mistake. These past few days, I’ve been deeply repenting, becoming increasingly aware of how I’ve betrayed the emperor’s trust. My crimes are unforgivable; please, Your Majesty, punish me.”

Xie Yi smiled. “The imperial examinations take place every three years, producing a mere handful of outstanding talents amidst a sea of mediocrity. Most can only become mediocre officials, lost among the masses. Our empire is vast, yet I’m sorely lacking in capable people. It’s rare to find a military talent like you, so how could I punish you for minor offenses? Since you’ve been governing Fujian well, if you can further contribute to maritime affairs and the naval academy, focus on educating the people and recommending virtuous individuals, you’ll earn the admiration of the populace. In the future, you’ll surely be remembered as a distinguished official in history books, and set an example for generations to come.”

Tears streamed down Lei Ming’s face as he struggled to speak, only bowing his head in gratitude, his eyes bloodshot.

Xie Yi spoke gently. “Rise. I’ve taken a break from court duties during the year-end festivities, and I’m here to see how the construction of the maritime college is progressing. There’s no need to rush to confess your sins; first, report on all the details of the project, and don’t delay or neglect anything.” He then ordered someone, “Summon Zhao Yu inside to report together.”

In no time, Zhao Yu entered with beads of sweat on his forehead. After paying his respects, he stood behind Lei Ming, listening to him report first.

Lei Ming’s voice still carried a sob, but he was clearly a capable official. He reported each detail meticulously—the expenses incurred, the progress made, the funds still needed—and provided a comprehensive update on the school’s development, a stark contrast to his previous indifference toward Zhao Yu.

Zhao Yu was astounded. Previously, Lei Ming had been arrogant, seemed unconcerned about the matter. Every time Zhao Yu approached him to discuss the project, Lei Ming appeared disinterested. Now, in front of the emperor, he presented a different face, though his legs still trembled slightly and his voice lacked its usual confidence, indicating that he might have been reprimanded beforehand. Yet, Zhao Yu didn’t feel any satisfaction; instead, he remained vigilant.

After Lei Ming finished his report, Xie Yi slowly said, “Fujian’s five prefectures are densely populated with limited land, but the population is thriving. Local agriculture doesn’t suffice, and due to its proximity to the sea, the only solution is to develop maritime trade. By establishing the maritime bureau, I aim to address this. Moreover, as foreign barbarians have become increasingly aggressive, a war is inevitable. A strong navy is imperative, and you must work together to ensure the success of this endeavor.”

Both Lei Ming and Zhao Yu hastily bowed in agreement. Then, Xie Yi asked Zhao Yu, “Is there anything you would like to add, Zhao Yu?”

Zhao Yu promptly reported, “Funds are currently sufficient, but once the school begins enrolling students, we’ll face ongoing operational costs, teacher recruitment, curriculum planning, etc. This is a significant undertaking, and I dare not act rashly without guidance from His Majesty.”

Xie Yi responded, “Since you’ve been working on this for some time, discuss with Lei Ming and draft a proposal to present. The Sheng family has contributed significantly and is skilled in business. Ask them for ideas on how to sustain the academy financially, and perhaps recommend one of their sons for a government post. This will encourage their loyalty to the state.”

Zhao Yu quickly asked, “May I ask, to whom should this proposal be submitted—the Ministry of War or the Ministry of Rites?”

Xie Yi glanced at Zhao Yu. “Let the Ministry of Rites deliberate with the Imperial Academy.”

Zhao Yu rejoiced. “I accept the decree!”

==

“The maritime academy naturally falls under the jurisdiction of the Ministry of Rites, which oversees the imperial examinations and the Imperial Academy. By involving the Ministry of Rites, students will have more opportunities to serve in various regions upon graduation. If it were under the Ministry of War, it would cater solely to military officers. In today’s peaceful times, the prospects for military officials are limited, let alone for those who merely study in an academy. For the sake of the future, it’s best to have the Ministry of Rites in charge, especially since Minister Shen is involved. He’ll naturally support your cause,” He Zhiqiu explained, sipping on the unique red rice wine of Fujian, and guiding Xu Chun.

Fan Mucun poured himself a cup of wine and laughed. “However, there’s a possibility that the Ministry of Rites might look down on military personnel, while the Ministry of War might resent those who aren’t their own. Graduates from the naval academy might not receive due recognition, which could lead to a difficult situation. Remember, the purpose of the maritime academy is to train naval officers. Offending the Ministry of War wouldn’t be wise. We must handle this carefully and seek the emperor’s approval.”

Zhang Wenzheng added, “Ministries have always competed for profitable tasks. The maritime academy needs a profitable source of income to thrive. We must think this through—first, it should provide enough funds for daily operations and training, and second, it should generate sufficient profits to entice the high-ranking officials of the six ministries to support you. Xiao Xu, your cousin seems talented and skilled in business. Does he have any ideas?”

Sheng Changzhou, being suddenly addressed, he hurriedly smiled and clasped his hands. “Indeed, I have some immature thoughts. Please enlighten me, esteemed ministers.”

Zhang Wenzheng chuckled. “Do tell us.”

Sheng Changzhou began, “First, shipbuilding, which offers substantial profits. Second, armament factories, manufacturing cannons and torpedoes, both crucial weapons, and generate considerable revenue. Third, a military hospital that trains medical students and charges fees for civilian patients. Fourth, a pharmaceutical factory, as medicine and healthcare are closely related, and yields good profits. Fifth, fish farms: cultivating seafood in designated areas during training breaks, farming shellfish, and fishing during sea training. Sixth, naval students can offer escort services to merchant fleets for a fee, and ensure safe passage.”

Sheng Changzhou slightly bowed. “This is the industrial sustainability plan we’ve discussed with Prince Xu. What do you think, esteemed ministers?”

Zhang Wenzheng clapped his hands. “Brilliant! However, the sixth point might raise controversy. Allow the merchant fleets to cover the training expenses, but don’t be too direct.”

Fan Mucun commented, “Each of these requires time. Skilled shipbuilders and medical professionals are hard to find, and it might not be easy to achieve everything at once.”

Xu Chun remarked, “Medical expertise is indeed challenging, but we have ready-made shipbuilding talents. With the Sheng family’s existing shipyard, transferring some experts should suffice, and allow the operation to start soon and generate income. Right now, I’m worried about what Wenzheng mentioned. Once the academy is established, if the chief instructor has different intentions, it might hinder our progress.”

He Zhiqiu smiled. “Initially, I shared Wenzheng’s concerns, but after hearing you speak, I believe the Duke of Wu Ying was commissioned to write a couplet for the maritime academy. That likely means the emperor wants him to serve as the chief instructor. If so, it’s perfect. First, he’s a consort prince, not actively involved in politics or related to either the Ministry of War or the Ministry of Rites, which eliminates any potential conflicts. Both ministries won’t object. Second, the Duke of Wu Ying is renowned for his talent, skilled in both literature and martial arts. His younger brother, Fang Zixing, is a trusted confidant of the emperor, which ensures his influence.”

Fan Mucun agreed. “Moreover, the Pingnan Principality is wealthy, abundant in salt, iron, and minerals, and has exclusive rights to maritime trade. If the Duke of Wu Ying comes here, he’ll have ways to support the maritime academy, and will never ask the court for money or manpower. There’s another crucial aspect you haven’t noticed.”

He Zhiqiu looked at Fan Mucun. “What is it?”

Fan Mucun replied, “Prince Pingnan was a loyal subject of the previous dynasty, though deceased now. His family maintains connections with many former officials who live in obscurity. If the Duke of Wu Ying leads the maritime academy, he might utilize his influence to hire these retired scholars as instructors.”

Zhang Wenzheng sat up straight. “Dongye is right! Many noble families from the previous dynasty retreated into seclusion and didn’t enter the new court. Generations later, their descendants may no longer wish to remain in the countryside, but the court is already crowded, and passing the imperial examinations isn’t easy. Those who fail might lose their scholarly pride, but if invited by the Duke of Wu Ying to teach at the maritime academy, they’d maintain their dignity and reputation. Many would certainly come. Not just them, even I can’t resist recommending a few. The southern regions are full of literati eager for opportunities!”

Everyone at the table burst into laughter. He Zhiqiu remarked, “Dongye, who grew up in the company of the emperor, understands the emperor’s temperament well.”

Fan Mucun chuckled softly. “When the emperor selects officials, he ensures they’re utilized to their fullest potential, and makes the most of their abilities without wasting a single grain of the state’s resources. In the past, he often complained about too many officials doing little work, and expressed strong disapproval. In recent years, this sentiment has become even more evident. When reading the official bulletins, one frequently encounters the emperor’s rebukes against officials for laziness and idleness. He often demotes and punishes criminals to laborious tasks like repairing levees, city walls, and guarding tombs, rarely ordering their execution. People praise the emperor for his leniency and mercy, but in reality, he’s distressed by the waste of salaries. Apart from confiscating assets to compensate the state, he believes they should serve as laborers. Execution is too wasteful.”

Everyone laughed heartily. Even He Zhiqiu commented, “I’ve heard that officials of the six ministries weren’t as diligent before. It’s the current emperor’s tireless efforts, his determination to improve governance, and his frequent discussions with officials that have led to the current atmosphere. From the inner cabinet to the ministry clerks, everyone works diligently day and night, fearful that a misstep during a court session could result in laborious tasks like levee repair.”

However, Xu Chun asked Fan Mucun, “Master Fan, who grew up in the company of the emperor, must be very familiar with the Duke of Wu Ying and his brother. Are they easy to get along with? I’m concerned that when he arrives, the Sheng family might not serve him well.”

Fan Mucun smiled. “Fang Zijing is much older than Fang Zixing. Zixing came to the capital to accompany the emperor as a young child, very straightforward in nature, but the emperor liked him, describing him as honest and easy to deal with. Indeed, the emperor values him greatly, keeping him as palace leader and always close to the emperor.”

“Fang Zijing moved to the capital only recently, and spends most of his time in Guangdong. Occasionally, he visited his brother in the capital. They have a good relationship. It’s rumored that during a royal hunt, Fang Zixing went missing, and Fang Zijing risked his life to search for him overnight. By the time Zijing reached the mountain, Zixing had already returned. Hearing that his brother had ventured to find him, Zixing wanted to go back, but the emperor stopped him, sending others to search. Fortunately, they all returned safely, even killing a bear, which solidified Zijing’s reputation as a protective brother in the capital.”

“It’s said that Princess Heshun missed her mother, which prompted her move to the capital. The emperor was compassionate, allowing Empress Dowager to live outside the palace in the princess’s residence. The Duke of Wu Ying spends most of his time recovering from old wounds, and avoids unnecessary social interactions, probably to avoid suspicion. But his character and conduct are impeccable. You can rest assured.”

Xu Chun inquired, “So the Duke of Wu Ying has a loving relationship with his wife. Emperor Taizong arranged their marriage over twenty years ago. Why haven’t they had children after so many years?”

Fan Mucun chuckled. “You might not know this. When the marriage was arranged, Princess Heshun was only this tall.” Fan Mucun gestured the height of a child. “She was six years old when she married and moved to Guangdong. She was chosen from the imperial clan, not from a prominent family, but for her gentle disposition. At the time, Fang Zijing was twelve, still a child. Later, there were wars on the borders, rebellions by local chieftains, and numerous bandits. It’s said that Fang Zijing led troops into battle in his teens. Due to his frequent absences and old injuries, they never had children.”

Xu Chun was shocked. “That means Fang Zijing is already in his forties?”

Fan Mucun replied, “Yes, he’s nearly twenty years older than Fang Zixing. Though called brother, he’s almost like a father.”

Xu Chun was speechless. Recalling Fang Zijing’s youthful appearance, he marveled at the man’s hidden age!

Fan Mucun continued, “Fortunately, he doesn’t seem to interfere much with Fang Zixing’s affairs, and only takes care of his basic needs. Perhaps it’s because Zixing serves the emperor closely, and he doesn’t want to meddle too much. He’s always cautious and low-key, which explains why he suddenly donated to the maritime academy. It was likely at the emperor’s suggestion. Afterward, he was commissioned to write the couplet, which further suggests his involvement. If it’s really him, Brother Xu and Brother Sheng needn’t worry too much.”

This wasn’t the emperor’s instruction, but Xu Chun had unwittingly implicated him, suspecting Ninth Brother was acting accordingly. But would it truly be the Duke of Wu Ying? If he came, it might actually be great, Xu Chun thought secretly.

==

Unaware that his childhood companion, drunk on wine, had sold him out completely, Fang Zixing sneezed. Turning to the emperor, silently gazing at the horizon from the ship’s bow, he said, “Your Majesty, the dignitaries who were bidding farewell have left. Shall we depart? Staying on deck for too long might cause a chill.”

Su Hua glanced at him.

Fang Zixing didn’t notice, and only shielded himself from the wind. “How about returning? We’ve come all this way, but we only caught a glimpse from afar, barely seeing anyone. There’s no rush. It’s still some time until the New Year’s assembly. Staying a few more days would be fine. Dinghai has recovered and is enjoying the company of He Zhiqiu and the other top scholars in Fujian, as they play and explore. They’re lively and energetic.”

The waves crashed like snow, seagulls swooped over the ocean to hunt, the sky was as blue as lapis lazuli, and the sea breeze blew steadily. Xie Yi recalled Xu Chun’s letter: “The fierce waves race forward, my heart flies with the sails. Words fail to convey my feelings, I long for the day I see you again, my greatest hope.”

Last night, he saw Xu Chun holding a lotus lantern, his expression melancholy. Amidst a crowd of thousands, he alone appeared desolate. Xie Yi longed to approach him, embrace him, and find solace for half his life. Regardless of the future, he yearned for a fleeting moment of happiness.

But, fame lasts a thousand years, while loneliness follows one’s death.

Xie Yi spoke calmly. “Let’s set sail, return to the capital.”

Fang Zixing acknowledged, turning to instruct the crew to depart. With commands echoing, oars moved, and the large ship slowly left the harbor.

Su Hua whispered, “Your Majesty, you traveled far to be here. Why not stay a few more days? Prince Xu appears pale and weary, and is suffering from lovesickness. Even when releasing river lanterns, he prayed for your well-being, and completely disregarded his own health. Such youthful passion deserves cherishing. It’s rare for you to visit. Even if you invited Prince Xu to return with you to the capital, he would undoubtedly be delighted.”

Xie Yi replied, “Youthful ardor is fleeting. Over time, it fades. Xu Chun, with his childlike nature, dresses warmly when cold, eats when hungry, and indulges in love, purely natural, and ignores societal norms. This is his admirable quality.”

“But he possesses a keen instinct for self-preservation, knowing I’m the emperor. His first response is to remain alert and distance himself. Whether it’s the auction in the South Seas or implicating the Duke of Wu Ying, it stems from intuition, and he is spontaneous. Even removing Helan from the register was instinctive. Others might view him as fortunate, blessed by luck, unaware that such individuals possess acute instincts, sensing fortune and misfortune, naturally avoiding dangers, and choosing the correct path.”

“Though he writes letters daily, filled with fiery passion, meant to coax me to happiness, deep down, he knows distancing himself from me is the best choice. Yet, he can’t offend me to avoid involving his entire clan. His actions are driven by his innate nature.”

“Now that he’s involved in court affairs, and experiences the allure of power and strives upward, he’ll eventually learn the proper way to serve as a minister when he enters the court.”

“He’s only nineteen, not yet of age. How can I allow him to act recklessly?”

“If he wishes to enter the court, he must follow the righteous path, and forge his own path openly. I’ll be his emperor forevermore. As for youthful infatuation, he’ll understand its impropriety as he matures and gains wisdom. Once he’s busy, his transient obsession will gradually fade, merely a temporary endurance. Love isn’t essential for life.”

“Furthermore, as the mighty emperor, can I allow a subject to draw near when pleased and retreat when frightened?”

“He chose to be minister, so he shall be.”

Author’s Note:

Note: Clouds drift all day, travelers linger far away. Meeting you thrice in dreams, affection grows, revealing your true intent. Departure always feels rushed, lamenting the difficulty of reunion. Perils abound on the seas and rivers, fearing the loss of boat and crew. Scratching white hair upon leaving, bearing the weight of unfulfilled aspirations. The capital teems with high-ranking officials, but you alone remain in decline. Who says the net is wide, old age burdened by fatigue. Fame lasts a thousand years, while loneliness follows one’s death. — Du Fu, “Dreaming of Li Bai II”

===

Emperor Ninth Brother bears a heavy burden, is very patient… and loves to give officials false hopes…

Young Lin: But I don’t want the grand promise of being a historic minister…

Ninth Brother: You’re still young, you don’t understand.

The most stubborn talker is Ninth Brother.