Clash of Alliances

by Pierre Dimaculangan

  ​“My condolences,” said the emperor. “Please send the parents one hundred taels of gold along with a letter that I shall write personally.”

  ​“There is more, Your Majesty. Unfortunately our journey home was not without travail. One lone ship loyal to the Riben king, met our squadron head on. It was rather large and heavily-armed…” he swallowed a lump that formed in his throat and his voice cracked when he finished his sentence. “…and it managed to destroy the three ships that escorted us.”

  ​“What?? How is that possible?” said the Emperor.

  ​“It was armed with what I am sure were Terukk-based weapons and propellants. One direct hit from its volley was enough to destroy one ship. Our focused counter attack barely managed to destroy it. We were lucky to make it alive at all.” He paused for a moment and bit his lips. “Majesty, there is no doubt that this war extends well into the sea, and it troubles me to think of what an entire fleet of those ships could mean for us.”

  ​The emperor sat and rocked back on his throne. He frowned as he rubbed his lightly bearded chin, trying to imagine such an encounter. “Thank you for this, Scholar Zhang. Notify the rest of the court. I will do what I can from here so that we can prepare for more encounters with our enemy’s navy. Now if you’ll excuse me, I must attend to other matters of the State.”

  7 Brocade-Clad Guard

  In the capital’s Imperial District, an Academician hastily approached the red lattice doors of Lu Guanying’s living quarters. She bowed and saluted him. “Headmaster, there are some persons of interest who have made their appearance at the gates. Our brethren from the Western Bureau are currently holding them outside Tiananmen Gate just outside the Imperial District,” she said.

  ​“How many of them are there? Have they identified themselves?” asked Lu Guanying.

  ​“They’re several dozen… and we didn’t think it necessary to request identification. Headmaster, they’re dressed in the garb of the Secret Police. They’re Jinyiwei.”

  ​Without another word, Lu Guanying dropped his papers and books and proceeded to meet the party being held by the Martial Academicians. He grasped his sword and slipped it firmly under his waist sash.

  ​“How did they even manage access through the checkpoint at the Inner District gate and walk the entire length of the avenue leading to the Imperial District??” he said with visible irritation. He signaled for the Academicians standing guard outside his living quarters to follow him southward.

  ​“Their leading officer asked to meet with you personally so the commanding Academician allowed them passage, but we have them surrounded at arrow point. He asked for you by name,” she answered hesitantly.

  ​The other four members of the Martial Scholar leadership and a light entourage of eunuchs, Academicians, and officials met with Lu Guanying behind Tiananmen Gate, the entrance to the Imperial District.

  ​“I thought the Jinyiwei were all eliminated at the battle in Liaodong Peninsula. I fear their appearance will only serve to complicate matters,” said Zhang Sunzan.

  ​“Apparently not all of them were at the battle,” said Lu Guanying. “We have to treat this as a possible infiltration attempt from the enemy.”

  ​“Well, let’s meet them and find out once and for all, shall we?” said Zhen Shu as he crossed his arms. His large single-edged sword was gripped tightly, his left hand ready to be drawn should the worst happen.

  ​The gates were opened, and the entire assembly met with the Jinyiwei that stood on the other side. Dozens of armored Academicians had their bows fully drawn, barbed arrows ready to be loosed from all sides. The Jinyiwei officers stood their ground, unfazed by the display of intimidation showed forth by the League. The one standing at the fore stepped forward to greet Lu Guanying with a hand-in-fist salute and a shallow bow.

  ​“So you’re the one they call Headmaster Lu Guanying,” he said with an orotund voice. The officer stood erectly with pride though at ease. He wore his brocade uniform proudly despite the infamous reputation of his agency. A four-clawed dragon was ornately embroidered across his chest and black leather bracers and spaulders adorned his uniform. “I am Lieutenant Shun Gen of the Jinyiwei. The men behind me are a few of the faithful that remain loyal to the Dragon Throne. I assume that all of you are agents of the League of Martial Scholars. I never thought I’d see the day I’d actually meet you face to face.”

  ​Lu Guanying looked deep into his eyes and could at the moment see nothing that would hint a possibility of a trap or ill-intent. At least there was no evidence of Terukk influence upon them. Lieutenant Shun’s face remained unchanged from its natural appearance. A thin moustache rested over his lip, and prominent cheek bones emphasized his narrow eyes. The officer maintained his composure even if they were completely surrounded, but Lu Guanying maintained his reservations about them.

  ​“What is your business in the capital?” the Headmaster asked straightaway.

  ​“We have come to be reinstated to our proper posts so that we may once again serve our country,” Shun replied. “I would also like to request an immediate audience with the emperor.”

  ​“Not going to happen,” answered Lu Guanying. “The emperor is now under the protection of the League of Martial Scholars. After your kind betrayed the empire, you will not even be granted a glimpse of His Majesty.”

  ​“Hah. ‘The emperor is now under the protection of the League of Martial Scholars,’” Shun mimicked. “You’re all long-time vigilantes. Your rogue order operates outside the boundaries of the law. Under ordinary circumstances I’d have you arrested for interfering with Jinyiwei business!”

  ​“Arrest us under what authority? Jinyiwei shouldn’t speak of vigilantism or operating above the law, so tread carefully, Lieutenant, lest you create for yourself the title of the biggest hypocrite in the empire. Needless to say, the emperor has already mandated our work as that of his administration. Should I present the paperwork? I should be the one arresting you for even stepping foot at these gates,” Lu Guanying shot back. “It is we who surround you. Not the other way around.”

  ​“Hahah, fair enough… my apologies, Headmaster. I just want to talk, and make it clear that we did not come to make enemies of the Martial Scholars. After all, we’re both at odds with the Pale Foreigners.”

  ​“Yes, the Snow Skins. At odds with them now, are you? Were they not supposed to be your new masters? All the rest of your traitorous comrades have already joined them and perished in open battle not long ago.”

  ​Shun scoffed at the remark. “Listen here, friend. The Jinyiwei may not have been the most honorable of organizations, but even within our little circles, there are patriots. Believe it or not, some of us aren’t eunuch puppets. We can be men of great conscience and conviction, and hate it or love it, we’re here now, and if you are indeed as honorable as you portray yourself to be, you’ll find a way for us to get along. It’s up to you, Headmaster. Tell your schoolboys to stand down or none of us will survive this day. Like I said, we just want to talk.”

  ​Lu Guanying signaled for the Academicians to lower their weapons. “Very well, Lieutenant. Let’s talk,” he said as he narrowed his gaze at the officer.

  ​Tian Qiu leaned forward toward Lu Guanying. “I don’t think we should trust them even if they are truly are whom he says they are,” whispered Tian Qiu. “They could complicate the operation we already have established here.”

  ​“No worries, I will not let them get in the way of our work. They may prove useful, however. We could use the extra manpower and increased security. I wouldn’t want to request anymore Ming troops for guard duty when they’re needed in the field. Our Academicians are already spread thin. We can barely secure the palace much less scout the city for hostiles,” said Lu Guanying. “Let us just be patient.”

  ​“You will not let us pass?” asked Shun.

  ​“No. Like I said, you are not to get near the emperor. You will not change my mind. We can talk here at the square. I’
d say the weather is fair enough, do you agree? Your audience with the emperor will have to be postponed due to the obvious circumstances.”

  ​Shun remained silent, but continued to look at Lu Guanying squarely in the eyes. Shang Jian, Zhen Shu, Zhang Sunzan, and Tian Qiu all stared him down. The officer even grinned slightly. Over one hundred of the Jinyiwei officers stood together, close-knit in a square formation. Each one was heavily armed with a custom blade slung at their backs or hips, and short swords and daggers hidden underneath their robes or sheathed into their belts.

  ​Lu Guanying paced back and forth, to the left and right of Shun. “By mandate of His Imperial Majesty, I am now in charge of overseeing the operations of the Imperial Administration— that would include any remaining Jinyiwei officers who still wish to serve the throne. This also means even the highest ranking officers and officials of the court report to us. If you wish to cooperate with the League, you are to do the same. Do not step on my toes and I will be sure to not step on yours. Am I clear?”

  ​“Crystal,” Lieutenant Shun hesitantly replied with his jaw clenched.

  ​“Good. Now let’s begin our professional relationship with a few questions: tell me everything about you, your men, and how you managed to elude your traitorous comrades and evade assimilation into the Terukk cause.”

  ​Shun sighed and flared his nostrils. He resented being questioned like a commoner. “Long story short, Headmaster, when I and the chosen few received the offer, we simply said no. Because of that, many died both by my hands and theirs. We were forced to regroup and reorganize in the sidelines until the dust settled. We’re all that’s left of the faithful,” said Lieutenant Shun. “Is it not obvious?”

  ​Lu Guanying scoffed at his answer. “What of your activities these past several weeks? Why the sudden emergence?”

  ​“When we were avoiding capture, we’ve been busy cleaning up your leftovers and finishing your dirty work. We spread out and did what we do best—man-hunting. To make the oh-so-complicated story short, we tracked down the remaining city and provincial officials who have conspired with the enemy. Unfortunately they have spilled no useful information despite our best efforts, but at least they will no longer be a problem. Also, I do recall a particular magistrate from your city in Guangzhou who was also on our hit list. Not only was he a proven Terukk sympathizer, he had a colorful and long history of taking bribes and striking deals with notorious gang lords and mobsters. I’m surprised your League has not taken care of him sooner. So, you’re welcome,” said the lieutenant as he examined his fingernails. An expression of satisfaction came upon his face.

  ​“Well done. It seems as though you’re not entirely useless for such petty tasks,” Lu Guanying retorted.

  ​“Apparently,” grunted Shun sarcastically.

  ​“If you wish to stay within the capital, you’re free to return to set up your headquarters in the Imperial District. My colleague Shang Jian shall personally oversee your operations and activities within the city and its limits. He will be free to decide where to use you and your rascals the way he sees fit: that is most probably guard duty. Minor Martial Scholars and other Academicians will keep a close eye on your activities from here on out. Is that understood?”

  ​“You’ll have no quarrel with me, Headmaster, at least for now.”

  ​“Good. One more thing: you and your men are never to enter the palace grounds. Ever. Get within ten paces of the palace entrance at Meridian Gate and I will have your head mounted on a pike outside the city. Now if you will excuse me, I will let the emperor know you have arrived, though I doubt he will be too ecstatic.”

  ​“Just know, Headmaster, that when all of this is over, your order will answer for its past deeds committed both in public and in shadow. You may consider yourselves honorable, but the law speaks for itself. Not even the Emperor will be able to make a refutation on your behalf.”

  ​“Hah! I would like to relay that same message to you. We shall see who will be answering to whom, Lieutenant. We shall see.”

  - -

  ​Tian Qiu ran his fingers across the numerous books stored in Hanlin Academy’s large library. On its shelves sat the Yongle Encyclopedia, over eleven thousand volumes compiling the entire collective knowledge of the Middle Kingdom, at least what government scholars could salvage up to date. “Do you know, Chancellor, that such a library exists in the Martial Scholars’ Academy?” asked Tian Qiu.

  ​“I’ve heard a thing or two from Headmaster Lu Guanying. He once described to me the complex instruments and ancient scrolls that decorate the hall of your books. Most of the texts are originals or restorations of books from previous dynasties, lost knowledge rescued from disasters, war and conquest,” answered the Chancellor of Hanlin. “They’re sure to contain far more complete knowledge than these elven thousand books have sought to compile under one complete set.” He nodded with admiration at the thought.

  ​“Yes, that is true… it contains all of that and so much more,” Tian Qiu added. “Did you know that I have read and studied nearly section in that library? Every day and night for many years, I have studied, learned, researched, and investigated those books, laying eyes upon manuscripts and texts supposedly lost throughout the dynasties. I’ve read such works of brilliant polymaths whose findings have been lost for a thousand years… yet after all that I had done and accomplished in the Martial Scholars, I feel emptier than when I had first begun. I had even spent years traveling to distant nations beyond the desert to investigate my knowledge. There was nothing in the arts and sciences, philosophies and histories that could fill my appetite nor quench the thirsts of my mind and my soul. Do you understand my woe, Chancellor?”

  ​“It seems that your problem is spiritual in nature,” he replied plainly.

  ​“I’ve never the time for spiritual pursuits. Knowledge and the accumulation thereof is my spirituality. This was something that even my parents could not understand. My pursuit for higher knowledge had made me unfilial. I was shunned for it,” said Tian Qiu. “Let me ask you, Chancellor. If you knew you could obtain that very thing that could fulfill your destiny, give you meaning and purpose, or fill the very void within your heart, would you be willing to do anything for it?”

  ​Chancellor Wu Chan took a seat and rested his hands on the table’s surface as he considered Tian Qiu’s query. “It depends if that very thing is for the greater good or for selfish desire,” he said. “It is up to you to decide, but a decision is always followed by a consequence. Would you be willing to live with it?”

  ​ “You are a wise man, Chancellor,” replied Tian Qiu.

  ​“If you’ve lived as long as I have, you can’t help but learn a thing or two about the condition of man,” said Wu Chan with a chuckle.

  ​Famin Jie frequented the library of Hanlin Academy to study and meditate upon his dusty old tome. He could not help but overhear the conversation, and was therefore prompted to speak. He stood to face Tian Qiu from across the room and locked eyes with him. “I believe that if you are not guided by a moral law higher than yourself, only disaster will follow in your wake. For the heart and nature of man is corrupted regardless of how righteous he wishes to be. Without adherence to something higher like an eternal truth, morals could only be based on an opinion, and a man will simply find a way to justify his selfish desires and ill-gotten gains.”

  ​“Always the preacher,” said Tian Qiu answering Famin Jie’s gaze with his own. “What could you obviously know of greater knowledge? You’re but a pauper— just some old country apothecary locked in the beliefs and superstitions of an antiquated age. You couldn’t possibly understand my travails.”

  ​“Knowledge without wisdom is a fast route to destruction. Without wisdom, despair only increases with knowledge. For he who has accumulated much thereof must bear greater responsibility for them, and more of him shall it require. Knowledge alone is a terrible burden, and a reckless weapon if it is not guided by something beyond ourselves.”


  ​Famin Jie did not remove his gaze from Tian Qiu’s eyes.

  ​“Is that why you’re the superior man, Sage? The so-called gentleman of whom Master Kong once described?” Tian Qiu said, this time his face directly in front of Famin Jie’s. “You’re guided by something higher than all of us?”

  ​“I’m superior to no one. But from what I am hearing, you are the one who cannot seem to find any measure of peace or contentment,” answered Famin Jie. “I, on the other hand can sleep soundly every night despite the world’s comings and goings. I cannot put a price on that. Can you?”

  ​Tian Qiu merely scoffed and frowned as he turned his back to Famin Jie.

  ​Famin Jie only continued to look upon him with heartache. “Even if he is blind, a man who seeks wisdom can see into the condition of one’s heart. Whatever it is you have set your heart to do, just do it, Scholar. For even if the worst shall come to pass in the world of men, there is neither wisdom nor action that can succeed against Heaven,” he said.

  ​“Very poetic. Did you learn that from your old tome?”

  ​“Yes, and so much more.”

  ​“Hah! That is of course, if Heaven truly is,” retorted Tian Qiu as he shook his head. He stormed out of establishment and headed straight into the city.

  ​“My old tome provides more enrichment for the mind and spirit than all the studies you have conducted in your entire life,” Famin Jie answered him, though Tian Qiu did not hear.