The Tang Dynasty Mirror Master's Tale (Complete in Three Volumes)

Set in the Tang dynasty, this is a long historical mystery novel. The story follows the protagonist, Bai Tanwei, as he travels from the Kingdom of Kucha to the Tang empire in search of the power of the “Yin Mirror.” Built around the premise of ancient illusionists, it tells of a young spice merchant from Kucha who encounters a ghostly creature conjured by “General Qiongdan” at a Persian temple in Chang'an. He is drawn into the assassination of a Persian prince, and as he investigates the truth, Bai Tanwei forms a deep friendship with Pei Zhi. Together, they solve the case.

But once the case is cleared up, Bai and Pei are astonished to discover that a vast conspiracy is spreading through the country ruled by Wu Zetian. The mysterious “General Qiongdan” is searching for a green clay pearl that conceals countless Sasanian treasures. Someone intends to use this wealth to persuade the Arab empire to attack the Tang. By then, Empress Wu has already fallen under the control of a mysterious illusionist. To defend the greater good and save the people, Bai and Pei, whose families both have grievances against Empress Wu, set out resolutely for Luoyang, the divine capital, hoping to stop the plot. Bai Tanwei even risks his life to unleash the power of the “Yin Mirror” and face off against the Thirty-Six Illusionists. He ultimately defeats them and averts the crisis in the capital. At this point, Bai Tanwei, who has lived for revenge, decides to kill Empress Wu. Pei Zhi disagrees, and the two face off in a final battle. In the end, Bai Tanwei comprehends the Profound Incantation of the Yin Mirror and, though he has the chance to kill Empress Wu, gives up his revenge.