[{"data":1,"prerenderedAt":-1},["ShallowReactive",2],{"origin-controlling-my-ancestors-building-an-immortal-cl":3,"chapter-controlling-my-ancestors-building-an-immortal-cl-controlling-my-ancestors-building-an-immortal-cl-chapter-152":6},{"origin":4,"title":5},"chinese","Controlling My Ancestors: Building an Immortal Clan Starting from the Eastern Han Dynasty",{"chapter":7,"nextChapterSlug":19,"prevChapterSlug":20,"totalChapters":21,"novelImage":22},{"id":8,"novel_id":9,"title":10,"slug":11,"index":12,"content":13,"wordcount":14,"created_at":15,"updated_at":15,"volume":16,"translator":17,"content_hash":18},2285821,4471,"Chapter 152: The General of Heavenly Strategy, Clouds and Winds in the Shadows (Combined Chapter, Requesting Monthly Votes)","controlling-my-ancestors-building-an-immortal-cl-chapter-152",152,"\u003Cp>History had indeed changed; Li Shimin spared Shan Xiongxin.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>This also served to illustrate the change in Li Shimin.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>His original character was very receptive to advice, and now, having possessed a more resolute goal, this trait was likewise magnified infinitely.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Regarding Li Shimin’s tolerance, Shan Xiongxin was extremely moved.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>In fact, it was just as Gu Quan had said.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Shan Xiongxin’s desperate fight had been for nothing more than \"loyalty,\" and now that even Wang Shichong had surrendered, he had even less reason to dwell on anything else.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>As a Grand General under Wang Shichong, he still held significant prestige within the army.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>With his assistance and the influence of the Gu Shizi.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The absorption of the Luoyang garrison troops was also very smooth.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>And Li Shimin’s next goal was, naturally, to turn his military might around, return to Tang territory, and resolve the current situation with the various feudal lords!\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The situation had changed completely.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>As this news gradually spread, it caused an unimaginable impact on the entire world.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>—The four seas were in an uproar!\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>For the feudal lords in all directions, this result could absolutely be called a bolt from the blue!\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Dou Jiande was captured alive?\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Wang Shichong surrendered?\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Who would dare to believe all this?\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The Tang Army’s strength was indeed very great, especially after gaining the Longxi region; facing the current Tang Army, none of the feudal lords dared to have any confidence in certain victory.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>But this was a coalition force!\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>And it was defeated just like that?\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Even two Emperors were captured alive by Li Shimin?\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Even Li Yuan, upon first hearing this news, was completely stunned.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>What followed was wild joy.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The significance of this battle was truly too great; he could already see the position of master of the world placed right before him!\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The ministers in the court were naturally also incomparably excited.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>They had won their gamble!\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>As long as the Li Tang could completely sweep across the world, their contributions would become the most core foundation of their families!\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>And in complete contrast to them, for the feudal lords, no matter how unwilling they were in their hearts, no matter how much they did not want to accept reality, the current situation forced them to make a choice.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Facing the Tang Army that had already begun to return, they simply had no chance of winning!\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>That was an army of hundreds of thousands!\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Shimin had now completely absorbed the forces of Wang Shichong and Dou Jiande; this was a force they could not possibly withstand.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>In fact, for all of them, dealing with the Li Tang now was their only chance.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Because the Li Tang had not yet had the opportunity to fully absorb everything.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>If they could be of one mind, perhaps there would still be a glimmer of hope.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>But humans as a species are just like this.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Rather than choosing to believe in those unreliable feudal lords and uniting with them to oppose the Tang to seize that glimmer of hope, the feudal lords were more willing to choose to remain in their corners; even if the Tang Army eventually attacked, it would not be in vain to have enjoyed the glory and wealth.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>This is human nature.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The army, like flowing water, had come in a hurry and gone in a hurry.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Yuan naturally would not choose to pursue.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Although it seemed at this moment that the opportunity for battle had arrived, before the true elite forces had returned, this move would also risk great danger.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Most importantly, for Li Yuan right now.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>He only needed to wait for Li Shimin to return; at that time, whether choosing to first stabilize Luoyang and the Hebei region, or to press the advantage and pursue, it would be of no consequence.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Why would Li Yuan need to take risks?\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The situation of the entire world had undergone a massive change in a short period of time.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The Battle of Hulao Pass was as if Heaven had wielded a brush of thunder, completely substantiating a series of prophecies regarding \"the Mandate of Heaven resting with the Li.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Beyond this, the common people could not think of any other reason.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>If not for the Mandate of Heaven—how could they have obtained the help of the Gu Shizi?\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>If not for the Mandate of Heaven—how could they have pacified two Emperors with such a small force?\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Various rumors arose one after another.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>As the news of the Battle of Hulao Pass spread further and further, although the Li Tang had not yet unified the world, it already completely possessed the feeling of a unified dynasty.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Especially the reputations of Li Shimin and Gu Quan, which rose with the tide.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>There were even countless commoners who called the two of them the reincarnations of \"Emperor Guangwu Liu Xiu\" and \"Loyal Martial Marquis Gu Xiao.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Under these circumstances, Li Shimin finally led his army back to Changancheng.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Yuan held a high-spec welcome ceremony for Li Shimin, and even he himself went outside the city to welcome Li Shimin and the others who had achieved a great victory.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The merit of this battle was too great.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>This battle even had the feeling of settling the world in one stroke.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Even the assembled ministers had to acknowledge Li Shimin’s merit.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>In the world that followed, who could stop the Li Tang?\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>This kind of merit was rare throughout the ages.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>How could they oppose this move by Li Yuan?\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Moreover, this move by Li Yuan was also showing his wisdom to the many soldiers.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Below the walls of Changancheng.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The sounds of drums and music played; under the witness of the ministers and the people of Changancheng, Li Shimin had just arrived before the city on horseback when he hurriedly dismounted to pay his respects to Li Yuan.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Your son pays respects to the Imperial Father.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Shimin even intended to perform a grand kowtow.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>However, Li Yuan directly stopped him, laughing as he said: \"My son has rendered great service in this battle; you are a meritorious official of our Great Tang, there is no need for this.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>As he spoke, he looked at the generals behind Li Shimin, his smile growing even wider, \"And so are all the soldiers!\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>—The whole nation celebrated together.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Accompanied by the gazes of countless commoners.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Yuan held Li Shimin’s hand, leading the ministers and the soldiers slowly toward the city.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Perhaps it was truly because he was too excited.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>With Li Yuan holding him, the position Li Shimin occupied had even surpassed the Crown Prince Li Jiancheng, which made the latter’s expression suddenly become somewhat unnatural, including that of some of his confidants.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>However, all of this was dispersed under the atmosphere of national celebration.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The victory banquet arrived as scheduled.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Yuan’s extraordinary nature was reflected at such a time; although many generals had only surrendered to Li Shimin after this battle.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>But upon hearing of their abilities.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Yuan also bestowed rewards and even allowed them to attend the victory banquet.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>This was absolutely a very useful method for winning over hearts.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The ancients said, \"A drop of water in need shall be repaid with a gushing spring,\" let alone the current attitude of Li Yuan, who let bygones be bygones.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Based on this point alone, it had already made these people begin to feel grateful for Li Yuan’s sagely virtue.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>And just before the victory banquet began, Li Shimin also brought Dou Jiande and Wang Shichong over.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Now, they had completely lost any trace of their former high spirits.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Compared to the days when they wore dragon robes and intended to traverse the world, the two of them now looked somewhat disheveled.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Imperial Father, these two thieves should be dealt with by the Imperial Father personally.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Shimin also slowly stood up, walked before the two, and bowed to Li Yuan, saying.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>—The atmosphere in the hall changed abruptly.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Yuan scanned the people present and slowly spoke: \"What do you, my beloved ministers, think?\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Your Majesty, this subject advises that the two thieves should be executed.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Pei Ji immediately stood up, walked into the hall, and bowed to Li Yuan, saying, \"Otherwise—\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"The hearts of the people in the world will not be at ease, and I fear it will breed chaos.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>These people naturally did not want to leave any risks behind.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Although Wang Shichong and Dou Jiande had become captives, after all, these two men had once been emperors who dominated their regions and held unparalleled influence locally.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"This subject seconds the motion!\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"This subject seconds the motion!\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\".\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The ministers stood up one after another.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>There was no conflict of interest here; the entire court was incomparably unified.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Yuan nodded slightly, then looked at Li Shimin and asked: \"Er-lang, what is your opinion?\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Imperial Father.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Shimin bowed again, and after a moment of silence, he continued: \"I believe that if the Imperial Father can forgive the two, it might let the people of the world know of the Imperial Father’s tolerance and benevolence, and even more so, make the hearts of the people in the world turn toward our Great Tang.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>In fact, he had already considered this issue long ago, and had even discussed it with Gu Quan.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Shimin’s original idea was to spare Wang Shichong and execute Dou Jiande.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>To use Wang Shichong to establish benevolence;\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>To use Dou Jiande to establish authority;\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>In truth, this move also stemmed from various considerations; Wang Shichong was a greedy man, and Li Shimin completely looked down upon someone like him.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Dou Jiande, however, was different, even though he had been constantly conscripting soldiers and horses.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>But he was a man of simple habits, always maintained strict military discipline, and held a very respectful attitude toward the Gu family.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>All these actions had given him a significant foundation in Hebei.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Such a person was naturally most suitable to be killed.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>But Gu Quan had persuaded him otherwise, suggesting that he should use this to swear an oath of benevolence and righteousness for the Li Tang, to tell the people of the world how the Li Tang differed from the Yang Sui.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>As for Dou Jiande’s foundation in Hebei—\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>As long as the Gu family remained, then all of this would not be a problem.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Shimin had also considered this issue carefully, and in the end, he had finally determined the answer.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>He now actually possessed the same invincible heart that Gu Chen had in the past.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>That was, an enemy defeated by him would no longer be regarded as an opponent from that point on.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>This was not arrogance.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>It was an absolute confidence in one’s own talent.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>As soon as the words fell, Gu Quan immediately stood up, bowed to Li Yuan, and said, \"Your Majesty, this subject seconds the proposal of the Prince of Qin!\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>In truth, Gu Quan was not just thinking about saving Dou Jiande’s life.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The most important thing was wanting to see the world unified quickly.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Just like the thoughts of Gu Yi in the past, only by quickly creating a prosperous age could the prestige of the Gu family continue to spread in the hearts of the people of the world.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>He did not want any more accidents to occur that would affect the progress of the world’s unification.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Following the two of them speaking in succession, more than half of the military generals of the entire Great Tang rose one after another to second the motion.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The sounds of their voices echoed throughout the entire hall.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Watching this scene, the expressions of many people changed.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>—Including the Crown Prince Li Jiancheng.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Shimin’s prestige was too high, so high that he could not help but become sensitive.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>It is still that saying: anyone’s mindset will gradually change with the differences in environment and position.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>In the past, they were just brothers, and the entire Li family was constantly facing the crisis of being wiped out.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>At that time, he could think about telling Li Shimin to take care of himself.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>But now, he seemed unable to do so anymore.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Yuan’s expression was also somewhat complex; looking at the two people before him, he remained silent for a long time before nodding slightly.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"My son speaks well.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"We grant it.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Perhaps the atmosphere was truly too strange.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>This simple sentence from Li Yuan caused the expressions of countless people to change drastically.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Those who supported executing the two were mostly supporters of Li Jiancheng, while those military generals were all supporting Li Shimin.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>And under these circumstances, Li Yuan had actually agreed to Li Shimin’s proposal; although they were all unsure if Li Yuan had any deeper meaning, it still could not help but make people overthink.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"However, while the death penalty may be spared, the living penalty cannot be avoided.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Transmit Our decree.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Exile these two thieves to the Shu region.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Yuan’s expression did not change in the slightest, and amidst this increasingly strange atmosphere, he made the final verdict for the two.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Wang Shichong was truly terrified to the extreme.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Upon hearing these words, he felt a sense of relief, and his entire body almost instantly knelt down, expressing gratitude for Li Yuan’s grace.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>But Dou Jiande was not the same.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>His expression was extremely complex; it seemed that because he had grown accustomed to the threat brought by death, at this moment, he only felt incomparably calm.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>He thought of many things.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>He thought of the many times he had traveled to Julu over these years, and in the end, even questioning Gu Yu to his face as to why he could not assist him.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>After all, in his own eyes, he did not feel he was inferior to anyone.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>As long as he could unify the world, he could completely give the Gu family the most absolute trust, just like Liu Bei, Liu Chan, and the others of the past.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>But Gu Yu had only said one thing to him back then: \"He is not that kind of person.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>He did not understand at all back then.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>But now, Dou Jiande seemed to have understood a little.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>He had indeed changed too much.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>It seemed that from the first time the Gu family rejected him, even though the Gu family had not yet helped the Li Tang at that time, he already held hostility toward the Gu family; it was just that the situation had always suppressed this hostility.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>But once the world was unified and the situation stabilized.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>He would probably be the first to want to control the Gu family.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Only after that ambition for hegemony was completely extinguished did Dou Jiande gradually see himself clearly.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>But he still did not quite understand.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Could it be that the Emperor of this Li Tang would not change?\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Master Gu, then let me see the prosperous age you desire.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Accompanied by thoughts flashing through his mind, he muttered to himself, and then he also knelt down toward Li Yuan.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The matter was completely settled.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>But even though the guards took the two away again, the atmosphere in the entire hall was no longer what it had been.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Yuan did not pay attention to the strange atmosphere in the hall.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>After the guards dragged the two away, he immediately raised his golden goblet high and laughed, saying: \"Everyone, drink with Us!\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Although many people had complex emotions in their hearts, cheers and laughter reappeared at this victory banquet.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The group of military generals was naturally the happiest.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Who would not want to be rewarded?\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>And they also knew that Li Yuan had always been a monarch who was never stingy with rewards.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Sure enough, when the wine had gone around three times, Li Yuan finally brought up this matter and began the rewards in front of all the officials.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The hall fell silent instantly.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>It was not just the soldiers who had gone to battle with Li Shimin, but also the officials who had guarded the city.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>It could be said that the entire Tang court received rewards.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>This was one of the characteristics of Li Yuan’s character; he was adept at using these things to win everyone over.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>It was the same in the original history.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>It was the same now.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>One name after another was called out by Li Yuan; he seemed to have already considered all the arrangements and did not show much hesitation.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>It was not until the very end that it reached the soldiers who had gone on the expedition.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Yuchi Gong; Qin Qiong; Li Jing.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>One name after another was called out in succession, including the descendants of the Gu family.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>It was not until the very end that it reached Gu Quan and Li Shimin.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Ziyuan.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Yuan took a sip of wine while calling out Gu Quan’s courtesy name.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>This call made all the officials in the hall hold their breath.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>For an Emperor to address someone by their courtesy name was already a great favor.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>But this intimacy was hard for anyone to say anything about, after all, this was a descendant of the Gu family, and he had performed such great meritorious service.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Yuan did not directly state the matter of the reward, but instead asked with earnest words: \"Now that Hebei is settled, I wonder if Master Gu is willing to come out of seclusion?\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"If Master Gu is interested.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"We are willing to go to Julu in person to invite Master Gu to come out of seclusion.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The Master Gu he spoke of—was naturally Gu Yu.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Over these years, Li Yuan had always kept this matter in mind.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Especially in these past few years, after receiving help from the Gu family, his power had developed rapidly, which had made him even more aware of the importance of the Gu family.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>He had been waiting for an opportunity.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Upon hearing this, Gu Quan hurriedly bowed earnestly and replied seriously: \"Your Majesty’s inquiry makes this subject feel honored and fearful. However, I truly cannot fathom my father’s intentions.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Although his talent was already extraordinary.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>It was still not enough to fully see through Gu Yu’s painstaking efforts.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Hearing this, a flash of disappointment crossed Li Yuan’s eyes, but he quickly concealed it; he sighed lightly, then turned to a serious tone: \"This battle was a great victory, and Ziyuan has made the greatest contribution.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Ziyuan—\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"We now promote Ziyuan to General of the Flying Cavalry, hoping you can emulate the loyal and martial Marquis Xiao of the past, and sweep away the six directions for Us.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Once these words were spoken, the entire court was in an uproar!\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The Sui system has been followed to this day, and the General of the Flying Cavalry is already the pinnacle for a military official.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Just like the various rumors in the world, Gu Quan is truly like Gu Xiao of the past, about to reach the end of a military official's path.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The assembled officials looked at one another, yet no one dared to speak out in opposition.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>After all, whether based on Gu Quan’s military achievements or the prestige of the Gu clan, this reward was quite fitting.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>But what truly tugged at everyone’s heartstrings was the upcoming reward for the Prince of Qin.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Thank you, Your Majesty.\" Gu Quan immediately bowed to Li Yuan, then consciously stepped back.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>As he passed by Li Shimin’s side, Li Shimin also looked at him with a smile, the anticipation in his eyes becoming even more intense.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>That’s right, it was anticipation.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Shimin had always been expecting Li Yuan to fulfill his promise from years ago and appoint him as the Ten Directions Expedition Envoy of the Li clan.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Perhaps it was because he was too expectant.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Even his hands were faintly trembling.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Finally, under the gaze of everyone, Li Yuan’s voice sounded once again.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Er-lang.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>In that instant, everyone immediately looked toward Li Shimin.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>And Li Shimin also took a deep breath, then slowly rose to his feet: \"Your son is here.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The great hall fell into absolute silence.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Although it was a time for rewards, the feeling at this moment was somewhat suffocating.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Yuan did not care how others felt; he only looked at Li Shimin, seemingly reading the anticipation in his eyes, and slowly spoke: \"My son Shimin, since raising troops, you have fought in the south and battled in the north, repeatedly performing extraordinary feats.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"I have thought for a long time.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"I believe that given my son’s contributions to the state, the official titles of previous generations are insufficient to describe them.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Everyone’s expressions changed abruptly at this moment.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Shimin’s dream was no secret; almost all the ministers in the court knew of it.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Previously, they did not think much of it.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>But now, as this moment was about to become reality, an invisible storm still rose up.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The Ten Directions Expedition Envoy—capable of contending with imperial power.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Even at this very moment;\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>This official position was even poised to surpass imperial power.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Some people could not help but want to speak out to dissuade him, but Li Yuan suddenly changed the subject: \"Specially establishing the title of Heavenly Strategy General, with a rank above all princes and dukes.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Holding the posts of Minister of Works and Chief Secretary of the Shaanxi Eastern Circuit, in charge of national military campaigns, and overseeing all affairs of the Prince’s Mansion.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>As the words fell, the atmosphere in the entire hall seemed to find a vent, and that heavy feeling instantly dissipated.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Was the reward Li Yuan gave high?\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>It was very high!\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Logically speaking, this was power that a clan prince should never be able to control.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>But compared to the Ten Directions Expedition Envoy that everyone expected, it was still far, far less.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>At the very least, he still could not restrict imperial power.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>This arrangement exceeded everyone’s expectations, and many people inexplicably breathed a sigh of relief at this moment, including the Crown Prince Li Jiancheng.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Silence!\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Absolute, deathly silence!\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Shimin was completely stunned, never having expected that Li Yuan would give him this official position.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Although it was not the Ten Directions Expedition Envoy of Gu Chen.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>But \"Heavenly Strategy General\" was also a specially created official position.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Could it be that Father Emperor feels I have not yet pacified the world?\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>This thought naturally arose in Li Shimin’s heart; Li Yuan was his father, so Li Shimin naturally would not have any abnormal emotions.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>He immediately settled on this thought, and without further hesitation, he bowed to Li Yuan: \"Your son thanks Father Emperor for his great grace.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Your son will certainly not fail Father Emperor’s expectations and will surely pacify all the rebels for our Great Tang.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The resonant and powerful words fell instantly.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Only at this moment did many people truly react.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The joy that the \"Ten Directions Expedition Envoy\" did not appear again dissipated in this instant.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Looking at Li Shimin standing in the hall, the expressions of many became increasingly complex.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>—Heavenly Strategy General!\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>So what if it wasn't the Ten Directions Expedition Envoy?\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Although he could not curb imperial power, Li Shimin’s power clearly already exceeded that of the Crown Prince Li Jiancheng.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>What exactly... does His Majesty mean by this?\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Could it be that he intends to depose the Crown Prince and establish the Prince of Qin?\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Even those ministers who had not chosen a side had this thought arise in their hearts at this moment.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Gu Yi had been silently observing all of this.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Watching the constantly changing expressions of the crowd, he knew very well that many things were destined to be impossible to avoid completely.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The Ten Directions Expedition Envoy—\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>In fact, the appearance of Gu Chen had already given many people of later generations another path to take, but for others, this path was always a dead end.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Why was Gu Chen able to reach this position?\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>It was not only his unparalleled merits, but also the prestige that the Gu clan had painstakingly built up generation after generation for hundreds of years.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>—Loyalty.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>It had always been one of the most critical labels of the Gu clan.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Only such a person could successfully step onto this path.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>And for others to be like him, how could it be possible?\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The contradictions within the Li Tang had already begun to rise.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>This was completely unavoidable.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>People are destined to be unable to fully control their various emotions.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Ambition and unease; aspirations and death;\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>This series of contradictions would lead to more and more conflicts as Li Shimin’s prestige grew higher and higher.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>This is the inevitability caused by human nature; who could stop it?\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Invisible waves were stirred up within the entire Great Tang.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Although it had not yet completely erupted at this moment, the grand trend had already gradually raised its curtain in the shadows.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>—With the help of the Gu clan, Hebei did not fall into chaos as it did in the original history.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Yuan’s act of not killing Dou Jiande and Wang Shichong indeed won him quite a bit of reputation.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>A benevolent emperor will always gain the expectations of the people.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>If Li Yuan could treat the false emperors who opposed him this way, how much more so for the common people?\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Under the momentum brought by the great victory at Hulao Pass, this news spread like a tidal wave throughout the world.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Shimin did not directly send out troops to continue pacifying the world.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Instead, he helped Li Yuan stabilize the newly recovered territories and wiped out small forces one by one, including the rebels in all directions.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Why the need for impatience?\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Even if the rebels in all directions would not bow their heads and submit, so what?\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Under this rolling grand trend, how could their military morale withstand it?\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Shimin constantly warned himself that what he wanted was to create a prosperous age like Gu Chen, not just simple battlefield slaughter.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Yuan still personally had someone go to Julu to visit the Gu clan.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>In fact, he wanted to go personally.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Even if he could not move Gu Yu, he could still choose to offer sacrifices to the ancestors of the Gu clan; this act could bring him too many benefits.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>However, in the end, he stopped this thought.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>An emperor visiting personally would undoubtedly put the entire Gu clan on the spot.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Yuan was a man who valued appearances and was unwilling to do such a thing.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>He only sent envoys.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>But the final result did not exceed Gu Yi’s expectations; Gu Yu did not personally emerge into the world, but only sent out those in the family who were skilled in governing the world.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Helping the Li Tang stabilize the territory served as their first contribution upon entering the court.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>In fact, Gu Yi could understand why Gu Yu would do this.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>It was nothing more than wanting to preserve the last bottom line of the Gu clan, which was that the head of the family would not participate in the chaotic world, just like Gu Ze of the past.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>He would only step out of Julu when the world was truly unified.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>This was a responsibility that the head of the Gu clan had to face.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>What surprised Gu Yi more was that Gu Yan had actually gotten together with Princess Pingyang, a matter that even Gu Yi had not discovered.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>History had indeed changed significantly.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Yet there are also things that cannot be avoided.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Changancheng, Donggong.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Mr. Wei, what kind of person is the current Gu Shizi?\" Li Jiancheng sat upright before the desk, gazing at Wei Zheng with a solemn expression, his voice low and grave.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Upon hearing this, a complex look flashed across Wei Zheng’s brow. He pondered for a long time before slowly speaking: \"Inscrutable.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>He took a deep breath, a trace of reverence appearing in his eyes, and continued: \"In his youth, Gu Shizi traveled across the four seas and witnessed the world transition from decline to prosperity, and from prosperity back to decline. The Dao he has realized is not something an ordinary person can fathom.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Seeing Li Jiancheng’s expression grow increasingly solemn, Wei Zheng thought for a moment and added: \"If Your Highness can obtain the assistance of Gu Shizi, the position of Crown Prince... will be as secure as a fortress.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>A sudden light shone in Li Jiancheng’s eyes.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Wei Zheng came from the Wei clan of Julu and was always prudent; since he gave such an evaluation, it was naturally trustworthy.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>However, Wei Zheng immediately shook his head and sighed: \"Unfortunately, the Gu family has for generations avoided involvement in the struggle for the foundation of the state. Even if Your Highness has the intention, it would be difficult to move him.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Could you act as an intermediary, Mr. Wei?\" Li Jiancheng’s brows furrowed slightly, his tone appearing somewhat urgent.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Wei Zheng gave a bitter smile and bowed, saying: \"I am but a person of humble standing; how could I influence the will of Gu Shizi?\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The hall fell into a momentary silence.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Jiancheng’s gaze dimmed slightly, his knuckles tapping the desk unconsciously; it was clear his mind was not at peace.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>These days, he could not sleep at night. Rumors were rampant in the imperial court, and the achievements of the Prince of Qin, Li Shimin, were growing daily, his prestige reaching its zenith, making him feel as if he were sitting on pins and needles.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Human hearts are easily changed, and Li Jiancheng was no exception.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Your Highness need not worry,\" Wei Zheng said, offering gentle comfort upon seeing this. \"Now that the descendants of the Gu family are entering the court one after another, if Your Highness can bestow favors and build connections, it is not impossible to gain their help. Since the Prince of Qin can do so, why should Your Highness trouble yourself?\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Jiancheng nodded slightly, then sighed softly: \"If the matter cannot be accomplished, it would be better to grant the position of Ten Directions Expedition Envoy to my second brother. It is not the imperial throne, after all, and at that time...\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Before he could finish, Wang Gui stood up abruptly and said sternly: \"Your Highness, absolutely not!\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>As the Crown Prince’s Advisor, Wang Gui was a trusted confidant of Li Jiancheng. At this moment, his expression was grave as he looked directly at Li Jiancheng and said: \"Does Your Highness truly believe that the Prince of Qin is the former Marquis Zhaolie, Gu Chen?\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Jiancheng’s gaze sharpened.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Wang Gui continued in a deep voice: \"The ambition of the Prince of Qin is known to all under heaven. If Your Highness ascends the throne in the future and your political views diverge, does Your Highness believe that, given the Prince of Qin’s prestige in the military, he would bow his head and obey?\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>These few words pointed straight to the heart of the matter.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Shimin was, after all, not Gu Chen; he possessed neither the long-standing pure reputation of the Gu family nor Gu Chen’s ability to advance or retreat with perfect timing. Even though Gu Chen’s achievements were world-shaking, it was only because he encountered rulers and ministers like Liu Bei and Liu Chan that he was able to have a good ending.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>But what about now?\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Although Li Jiancheng and Li Shimin were brothers, cracks had already begun to form between them. Who could predict what would happen in the future?\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Jiancheng remained silent for a long time, the sound of his knuckles tapping the desk becoming increasingly rapid.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Seeing this, Wang Gui offered one more piece of advice: \"Your Highness’s top priority, besides winning over court officials, is to petition the Emperor that this position of Ten Directions Expedition Envoy must never be established again!\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"The Prince of Qin is the Emperor’s son; how can he share power with the Emperor? Furthermore, the former Marquis Zhaolie himself said before he passed away that future generations must not establish this post again!\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The officials of the Donggong echoed his sentiments one after another, their words earnest.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>They had no way back; only by supporting Li Jiancheng could they preserve their own interests.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Although Li Shimin had only just begun to show his edge, this trend must absolutely not be allowed to grow!\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>This was a life-or-death struggle.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Any sign of it must be extinguished!\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Jiancheng’s gaze gradually sharpened. After everyone had finished speaking, he finally nodded slowly and said in a deep voice: \"I... understand.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>(Ps: A two-in-one chapter. I beg for monthly tickets and ask my brothers to support me. Please help me maintain my ranking on the monthly ticket list this month. Thank you very much. The upcoming plot regarding the Great Tang will definitely not disappoint you brothers!)\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>(End of chapter)\u003C\u002Fp>",5515,"2026-06-20T03:16:01.192Z",1,"Gemini 3.1 Flash Lite","5a9d47fbb2be7a3b1c78cd41406c8c589fbcda55c5f914eaba2513d38c83d6a1","controlling-my-ancestors-building-an-immortal-cl-chapter-153","controlling-my-ancestors-building-an-immortal-cl-chapter-151",167,"https:\u002F\u002Fnovelzhen.com\u002Fimages\u002Fcovers\u002Fcontrolling-my-ancestors-building-an-immortal-cl-cover.jpg"]