Chapter 685: Mingzhu’s Plea

Before dawn the next day, Li Qing’an led three thousand elite cavalrymen into Yangzhou City. Without alerting the local officials, he set up a large tent right in the Market Supervision Bureau square. It was clear that Li Qing’an intended to use the fire at the Market Supervision Bureau as a starting point to purge the officialdom in the Jianghuai region.

Surrounded by dozens of bodyguards, Li Qing’an inspected the burned-out headquarters of the Market Supervision Bureau. The fire had completely died down; the beams reduced to charcoal no longer emitted smoke, and the main building had collapsed. The surrounding walls were blackened by thick smoke. Among the debris lay pages of documents burned to ashes, blank tax forms, and even dozens of charred bodies wrapped in mats. A total of seventy-four people had died—except for one clerk, all were foreign merchants who failed to escape in time. When the fire broke out, thousands of foreign merchants fled in panic from the office, many trampled and injured, before being consumed by the flames. The scene was horrifying.

Over a thousand soldiers were clearing the treasury. The massive stones guarding it had been shattered by the army’s battering rams, and 3.2 million guan in cash were taken out and piled in the northwest corner of the square. All the money was stored in huge iron boxes, forming towering stacks. There were copper coins, Persian silver coins, Roman gold coins, and Anxi silver dollars. Each box was labeled with the amount inside. Twenty-some officials from prefectural and county offices were counting and recording the money, and the process was nearing completion.

All 95 officials and tax collectors from the Market Supervision Bureau were temporarily detained in the county office, awaiting further investigation. Yu Shiqing revealed a vast network of corrupt officials—none in the bureau was innocent.

“General, they’ve been brought!”

Li Qing’an turned and saw over a dozen foreign merchants led in by soldiers. All of them looked downcast and disheartened. They had been identified as the ones who started the looting, arson, and destruction after the Yangzhou garrison conducted a night search among nearly a thousand captured foreign merchants. Some had stolen blank tax forms, others had taken cash from the bureau, and some had been accused by their companions of setting the building on fire. In total, there were eighteen such people.

There were also two others, Basang and Layer. They hadn’t managed to get inside the bureau and thus escaped blame, but since they were the initial catalysts for the incident, they too were brought in for questioning.

A total of twenty foreign merchants were brought before Li Qing’an. They all knelt before him—among them were Persians, Saxians, and even a Byzantine merchant. All twenty were pale with fear, trembling violently. In front of the burned-out headquarters of the Market Supervision Bureau, it seemed they already knew their crimes were unforgivable, and they lacked even the courage to plead for mercy.

Li Qing’an glanced at them. Although the initial fault in this incident involving the foreign merchants wasn’t theirs, they had gathered to cause trouble and even burned down the government office, which was a capital offense under the Tang Dynasty laws. Of course, the law couldn’t be applied to everyone—there were over ten thousand foreign merchants involved, so it was impossible to execute them all, but some must be killed as a warning, otherwise the Tang laws would be meaningless.

Li Qing’an then said to Ji Guangchen, the governor of Yangzhou standing beside him, “Let Yangzhou handle the trial of these foreign merchants. After obtaining their confessions, deal with them strictly according to the Tang laws!”

Ji Guangchen nodded and ordered the clerks to take the criminals away. Li Qing’an then gave Han Jinping, the chief secretary, and Pei Jin, the county magistrate, a subtle signal to stay, as he had something to say. The two understood and followed Li Qing’an to the main tent.

Once inside, Li Qing’an asked Han Jinping and Pei Jin to sit down and ordered his personal guards to bring tea. Then he smiled at Han Jinping and said, “It seems Chief Secretary Han has been very busy lately!”

“Yes,” Han Jinping replied respectfully, “I have indeed been very busy lately, dealing with the mess left by Li Lin and coordinating with the transport officials on warehouse construction. It’s been extremely hectic.”

“Hehe! You’ve worked hard, Chief Secretary Han.”

Li Qing’an then turned his attention to Pei Jin, the county magistrate of Jiangdu, and asked, “Why didn’t you stop the foreigners from causing trouble last night?”

Li Qing’an’s question made both Han Jinping and Pei Jin uneasy. In fact, as soon as they noticed the foreigners gathering, Ji Guangchen, Han Jinping, and Pei Jin immediately discussed emergency measures. They almost agreed to ignore the matter and gather the clerks to prevent the foreigners from attacking civilian homes.

Since Li Qing’an had asked, Pei Jin replied with some shame, “I also wanted to stop them, but I quickly realized that the foreigners were already out of control. I was worried that if the government office clashed with them, their anger would turn against the innocent people of Jiangdu, leading to a massive disaster. So I thought it was better to give them a target to vent their anger rather than divert their attention. Of course, I also had a personal concern—I was afraid the government office would be attacked.”

Han Jinping added, “Your Highness, this was actually the unanimous decision of the officials in our prefecture and county. If responsibility must be assigned, Governor Ji and I bear the greatest blame, as we didn’t even inform the military.”

Li Qing’an nodded. He believed Pei Jin was telling the truth. Although it made little sense, it was understandable. He didn’t want to hold the prefecture and county officials accountable any further, lest the situation escalate. Otherwise, both Ji Guangchen and Han Jinping would be implicated, and he hadn’t called them here for that reason.

“Let’s not discuss this matter anymore!”

Li Qing’an changed the subject. “I invited you two here because I have other matters to discuss with you.” Han Jinping and Pei Jin were relieved that Li Qing’an wasn’t pressing them about their negligence, so they quickly said, “Please give your orders, Your Highness!” Li Qing’an smiled and said, “It’s this: I want to reassign you two as officials.” Han Jinping and Pei Jin exchanged a glance. The sudden proposal caught them off guard, leaving them at a loss as to how to respond. Li Qing’an first spoke to Pei Jin, “Last time when we seized the Salt Port, County Magistrate Pei personally led ships to set up defenses to prevent any escapees. He also captured Hudou Island, helping the Tang army clear the way in the south. Merit deserves reward—this is my principle. Last time, County Magistrate Pei wasn’t included in the commendations. It wasn’t that I forgot; I was thinking about how to reward him, which delayed things and caused him distress.” After King Wu Li Lin was overthrown, the government honored those who had contributed, but Pei Jin was indeed overlooked. He still felt a bit aggrieved. Now that Li Qing’an brought this up, it moved him, but it also made him feel ashamed. He quickly bowed and said, “I am merely the county magistrate of Jiangdu. That was my duty, and I dare not accept a reward.” Li Qing’an smiled slightly. “There’s no reward, but there is a promotion.” He took a letter from the table beside him and handed it to Pei Jin. “This is a complaint letter from Wang Jiaju, the county magistrate of Linhuai. It exposes how the governor of Sizhou imposes extra taxes under false pretenses to enrich himself. There’s solid evidence, along with tax orders from the governor. Additionally, I’ve gathered plenty of evidence from the people of Sizhou. The governor deserves execution, and all his assets should be confiscated. I’ve sent an army to Sizhou to enforce these orders. All corrupt officials there will be removed, and their ill-gotten wealth seized. Sizhou is now under military rule. That’s why I want County Magistrate Pei to temporarily serve as the governor of Sizhou to restore order as soon as possible. An official appointment will follow soon. How about it? Can County Magistrate Pei take on this role?” Pei Jin was excited—he would now be a governor officially. He quickly stood up and bowed. “I will devote myself wholeheartedly until my death.” “Hehe! It’s not that serious. I just hope County Magistrate Pei will listen more to the people’s opinions and do more to benefit them.” “I’ll remember your teachings, Your Highness!”

Li Qing’an nodded slightly and turned to Han Jinping, saying, “Last night, Yu Shian, the judge of the Maritime Administration, confessed to me that he had committed bribery. At the same time, he revealed a huge scandal within the Maritime Administration—foreign merchants set fire to expose the corrupt practices of Yang Xunwu, the head of the administration, which may have resulted in the loss of two million guan in tax revenue. I checked the records before coming here; the Maritime Administration hadn’t paid a single penny to the imperial court in eight years. There should be seven million guan stored in the Yangzhou tax treasury. After deducting the two million guan used by Li Lin for military expenses, there should still be five million guan left. But Judge Yu Shian told me there are only three million guan in the treasury—the missing two million were embezzled by Yang Xunwu and other officials. This case must be thoroughly investigated. I’ve already ordered the imperial court to hold an immediate trial by the Three Ministers. The officials from the Three Ministers will arrive soon. Yang Xunwu has been removed from his position. I’ve decided to dissolve the Yangzhou Maritime Administration and reestablish the Mingzhou Maritime Administration. I intend to appoint Han Jinping as the head of the Mingzhou Maritime Administration and the governor of Mingzhou. The former officials of the Mingzhou Maritime Administration can be reinstated. Time is of the essence—Han Jinping had better take up his post this afternoon.”

“I will obey the order and leave this afternoon,” he replied.

After hesitating for a moment, Han Jinping asked, “Then who shall I hand over my duties to?”

“I’ve already thought about that. Let Yu Shian, the judge of the Maritime Administration, take over your position as chief advisor.”

Han Jinping and Pei Jin were both shocked. Just moments ago, it was said that Yu Shian had committed bribery. Even if his crimes weren’t pursued, how could he be promoted to chief advisor of Yangzhou?

“Your Highness, this seems inappropriate!”

Li Qing’an smiled. “I certainly understand your concerns. This is a special case, handled on a special basis. I want to use Yu Shian to warn the officials in Jianghuai that the top officials from the imperial Three Ministers are coming. If they confess to me and return the embezzled money before then, I won’t pursue them. Of course, scoundrels like Yang Xunwu will not be spared!”

…

One hour later, Ji Guangchen swiftly concluded the investigation into the arson case at the Maritime Administration. All eighteen foreign merchants were found to be involved in the arson. According to Tang Dynasty law, they were all sentenced to be decapitated, with their heads displayed in the North Market for ten days as a warning to other foreign merchants. Meanwhile, Li Qing’an issued an imperial order: Yang Xunwu, having violated imperial orders by arbitrarily raising trade taxes, had been removed from his position and charged with crimes. The Yangzhou Maritime Administration was dissolved, and the Mingzhou Maritime Administration was reestablished, with Han Jinping appointed as its head.

This served both to deter foreign merchants and to give them an explanation. As for Yang Xunwu’s embezzlement, Li Qing’an planned to handle it after the officials from the Three Ministers arrived in Yangzhou, temporarily suspending further action for now.

After Li Qing’an issued his decree as a grand general, the Hu merchants in Yangzhou city became completely quiet, patiently waiting for their ships to return. Having dealt with matters related to the Maritime Trade Office, Li Qing’an had nothing to do for the time being and managed to steal two days of leisure. Early the next morning, he took Mingzhu to Dayun Temple. Dayun Temple was not located five li north of Slender West Lake and south of Shugang in Yangzhou. This famous temple had long been forgotten by the Ming Dynasty, but during the Tang Dynasty, it was one of the most renowned temples in the land; the famous monk Jianzhen had practiced here. At that time, there were over forty temples of various sizes inside and outside Yangzhou city, and Dayun Temple was the largest of them, always bustling with incense offerings from devout believers. Li Qing’an arrived at Dayun Temple early in the morning, before the temple gates opened, and from afar he could see the towering Buddha stupa and the splendid dome of the main hall. “Elder brother, I wonder if Master Jianzhen is still here? I’d like to ask for his guidance again.” Mingzhu was in high spirits. She hadn’t expected Li Qing’an to actually accompany her to Dayun Temple to fulfill a promise, even though it was just an excuse she had come up with on the spot. The mere act of visiting the temple filled her with joy; along the way, she seemed to return to her youth, her cheerful laughter echoing inside the carriage. Li Qing’an remembered something about Jianzhen’s history—he must have gone to Japan a few years ago. He smiled and said, “I’m afraid you won’t be able to see Master Jianzhen. He crossed to Japan a few years ago to spread Buddhism. But I don’t understand what guidance you need. Why not tell me, and I’ll offer some advice for you.” Hearing that Jianzhen had gone to Japan, Mingzhu’s eyes showed regret. But when she heard Li Qing’an offer guidance, her face turned red. “It’s just a small matter. I don’t need your guidance, Elder brother. Besides, if you give advice, won’t it lead me down the wrong path?” Li Qing’an found her words endearing and couldn’t help but laugh heartily. Soon, the carriage stopped in front of Dayun Temple. The temple had already been informed, and Abbot Daoyun was waiting outside the gates. Prince Zhao was bringing his family to the temple to offer incense. Under the protection of five hundred royal cavalry, the carriage slowly came to a stop in front of the temple gates. Li Qing’an got out of the carriage and helped Mingzhu out. She had worn a light yellow dress specially for this occasion, with ribbons wrapped around her arms and a gold ring and incense pouch on her body. A jade hairpin shaped like a child worshipping Guanyin was tucked diagonally in her hair. Coupled with her youthful beauty and fair, delicate complexion, she appeared even more enchanting.

Master Daoyun did not ask in detail who from Li Qing’an’s family she was. Judging from Mingzhu’s age, he instinctively assumed she was one of Li Qing’an’s concubines, so he did not press further. Instead, he stepped forward, clasped his hands in greeting, and said, “This humble monk welcomes Your Highness and Madam to offer incense at our temple.”

Mingzhu’s face suddenly turned red. She glanced secretly at Li Qing’an, only to see that he seemed unconcerned. He also clasped his hands in return to the abbot and said, “Thank you for your hospitality. I apologize for causing you trouble!”

Hearing that Li Qing’an had not corrected the abbot’s mistake, Mingzhu’s heart pounded, yet she felt a hint of sweetness. Had he admitted it? Was she indeed his wife?

“Your Highness, please, come inside!”

“Abbot, please!”

A group of monks led Li Qing’an and Mingzhu into the temple, with dozens of guards following behind. As they walked, Master Daoyun introduced Li Qing’an, saying, “Since Master Jianzhen conferred ordination here, Dàyún Temple in Yangzhou has become one of the three major schools of the Nanshan sect, alongside the Xiangbu sect led by Master Fali of Rìguāng Temple in Xiangzhou and the Dongta sect led by Master Huaisù of Xītáiyuan Temple. Therefore, it was the right decision for Your Highness to come to Yangzhou to make a vow and offer incense at Dàyún Temple.”

“I have long heard of Dàyún Temple’s fame. In the seventh year of Tianbao, when I was stationed in Yangzhou, I wanted to meet Master Jianzhen, but time was short and I failed to do so. It’s a great pity to learn now that he has gone east.”

“The seventh year of Tianbao?”

Master Daoyun thought for a moment before sighing, “By then, the master had already lost his eyesight. We all thought he would stay, but to our surprise, he set sail eastward a few years later. His determination is truly admirable.”

By the time Li Qing’an arrived, many believers were already waiting outside the temple gates. The gates were kept closed especially for him, which had caused some resentment. Li Qing’an had his own matters to attend to and did not want to stay long. He turned around to call for Mingzhu but found her missing, leaving him puzzled.

Master Daoyun smiled and said, “Madam went to the Avalokiteshvara Courtyard first.”

He pointed to a small courtyard not far away. “It’s right over there!”

Li Qing’an wondered what Mingzhu could be doing alone in the Avalokiteshvara Courtyard. He quickly clasped his hands and said, “Master, please wait a moment. I’ll go check and be right back.”

“Your Highness, please go ahead!”

Li Qing’an hurried toward the Avalokiteshvara Courtyard. Two bodyguards stood at the entrance, pointing inside to indicate that Mingzhu was there.

Entering the courtyard, Li Qing’an saw it was filled with apricot trees, their branches laden with green apricots. A stone path led straight to the Avalokiteshvara Hall. He seemed to hear some noise, so he slowly approached the door and saw through the crack that Mingzhu was kneeling in prayer before the Avalokiteshvara statue, with her hands clasped.

“Great Compassionate and Merciful Avalokiteshvara, your disciple Mingzhu pleads with you for a marriage match. Since childhood, she has loved someone, and this feeling has lingered in her heart for eight years. He married Mingzhu’s sister, and though he is by her side, her heart feels as if it is thousands of miles away. As time passes, he becomes more and more noble, while she becomes ever more humble. He is like the light of the sun and moon, while she is but like the glow of a firefly. I earnestly implore the Bodhisattva to show mercy and fulfill my desire for marriage. To show my sincerity, I am willing to abstain from meat for a year and live a virtuous life. If we are truly fated not to be together and my wish cannot be fulfilled, I am willing to take refuge in Buddhism and remain by the Bodhisattva’s lamp forever…”
Li Qing’an listened in silence, deeply moved. She had waited for him for eight years—what a hardship she must have endured.
Li Qing’an couldn’t help but recall the moment he first met her eight years ago:
“Li Qing’an, you guessed right. This young lady is right behind the screen.” The screen moved, and a young woman with an unusual makeup appeared…
“Is my makeup nice? It’s the newly popular ‘blood blush’ makeup.”
“I’ve never seen it before, that’s why I was surprised.”
“You’re really naive, having seen so little of the world.”
…
“Oh! So General Dugu is your grandfather. What’s your name? Are you nine or ten years old?”
“You’re nonsense! I’m ten this year…”
The young woman suddenly bit her lip and laughed, “Such a sly guy, trying to figure out my age.”
She suddenly puffed out her chest, pulled her shirt back, revealing fully developed breasts, and said proudly, “See? Could this be a nine-year-old girl?”
…
It seemed like it had happened just yesterday, yet eight years had passed. The little girl had grown into a young woman and should have been married by now.
Li Qing’an was filled with deep emotion. At the same time, he secretly resolved that whatever it took, he would give Mingzhu a proper status and not let her spend her life alone by the ancient Buddha.
With that thought, he quietly left the Avalokiteshvara Temple…