Chapter 44: The Rise of Yongjian: Gu Xi Leaves the Capital

Gu Yi had been silently watching all of this.

The transformation of these events was both unexpected and yet not surprising.

It was inevitable that Gu Xi held such thoughts.

If the next generation of the Gu clan had capable members, his nature would surely ensure the Gu clan continued to shine in court.

But the current situation clearly did not suit such a path.

The Gu clan's prestige was already high enough.

As long as no unforeseen event occurred, there would be no threat to the entire clan.

Yet such an unforeseen event could only arise within the court.

No one now dared to provoke the entire Gu clan without cause.

Should the Gu clan suffer no misfortune yet someone deliberately targeted it, this would inevitably damage the family's reputation across the land.

Gu Xi did this to preserve the overall interests of the family.

For Gu Yi, this was naturally not a bad thing.

As long as the main line of the clan endured.

He could use the opportunity to elevate the family's influence once more to its peak.

What he feared was that family members, for fleeting gains, would destroy the entire clan.

As for Emperor Liu Bao.

Gu Yi was somewhat at ease.

In the original history, Liu Bao's abilities were already not poor.

His reforms to various systems

Greatly improved the conduct of officials during that Eastern Han period.

The only point worthy of criticism was his favoritism toward Empress Liang Na and his promotion of Liang clan members.

Which ultimately gave rise to men like Liang Ji.

And completely triggered the internal turmoil of the late Eastern Han.

But such a thing would never happen now.

The example of Yan Ji had too great an impact.

Not to mention whether Liu Bao would be influenced, but as long as the Gu clan still stood and Gu Xi remained, this could never occur.

Gu Xi was indeed confident.

This was his strength, and also his weakness.

But he would not stumble twice on the same issue.

Gu Yi was very confident about this.

Liu Bao was indeed a gifted child.

Especially with Gu Xi now in court.

This gave Liu Bao great confidence, allowing him to cautiously begin managing court affairs.

In short, Gu Xi could cover for him.

As long as Gu Xi stood there,

The ministers were awed.

And even if he made any mistake, Gu Xi would only offer subtle guidance and hints, letting Liu Bao realize his error himself.

And then make corrections.

This was indeed a very effective method.

Coupled with Liu Bao's own talent,

One could say Liu Bao's governing ability increased day by day.

— Yongjian Year Two.

Liu Bao issued an edict to reduce taxes and corvée labor, causing the people of the realm to cheer and praise the court's virtue.

At the same time, he made a series of personnel arrangements within the court.

He promoted ministers who had once followed Gu Xi and bestowed rewards upon them.

Winning hearts and minds.

He also summoned students from the Imperial Academy and, together with Gu Xi, tested their abilities, promoting those with talent to official posts.

Under this series of measures,

Liu Bao's prestige within court and among the people grew ever higher.

Though he had only just ascended the throne, he had already surpassed Liu Hu.

The atmosphere of the entire court seemed to have changed.

"The image of a wise ruler"

Was increasingly mentioned by many ministers; nearly everyone looked forward to the future of the court with anticipation.

Of course, this was inseparable from Gu Xi's assistance.

Gu Xi was enhancing Liu Bao's abilities in this very way.

— Yongjian Year Three.

Liu Bao again promoted frugality and land reclamation, and once more resolved to construct water conservancy projects.

He even emulated Emperor Ming Liu Zhuang,

Leading his ministers in the "Ritual of Personal Plowing" to set an example for the realm.

At the same time, he began tentatively establishing his own authority.

His first slash was aimed at the palace eunuchs.

Eunuchs!

For any eunuch within the palace who showed arrogance, he showed no mercy.

This was the first time the young Son of Heaven revealed his fangs.

Though what he faced were merely palace eunuchs.

But it clearly signaled his stance.

In that instant, all ministers felt a flicker of fear.

Even though the Son of Heaven was still young.

But who else remained but Gu Xi?

The sword-bearing man who always stood beside the Son of Heaven—no one in the realm could even meet his gaze for ten breaths.

Under these measures,

the entire realm was stirred with excitement.

——Year Yongjian Five.

Liu Bao believed Yiwu was fertile land.

He resolved to open up farmland and establish military colonies in Yiwu, appointing the current Huan Hou, Gu Han, as Yiwu Sima.

Regarding this matter,

Gu Xi did not oppose it.

Yiwu lay near the Western Regions.

As the current Huan Hou,

Gu Han had many advantages in undertaking this task.

Moreover, Liu Bao had gradually placed many ministers within the court—these men were already his own loyalists.

Gu Xi's authority seemed to have been affected.

But from beginning to end,

he had always stood beside the Son of Heaven, never wavering.

Yet in the winter of this very year,

the Minister of the Left, Zuo Xiong, suddenly came to see Gu Xi.

The Marquis of Guanjun's Mansion.

Gazing at Zuo Xiong's sudden arrival, Gu Xi's eyes flickered with a hint of confusion.

Lately, as he had deliberately relinquished power, ministers rarely came to him unless there was a major matter.

But what major matter could there be now?

"Grand Tutor."

Zuo Xiong bowed solemnly, then said: "Your servant has come today regarding a matter vital to the Han dynasty's state."

"I have come to consult with the Grand Tutor."

Hearing this, Gu Xi immediately grew serious, gesturing for Zuo Xiong to sit, then said: "Speak plainly, Bo Hao."

"Grand Tutor, please look."

Zuo Xiong wasted no words, immediately pulling out his written memorial.

"This is the policy I wish to present to the Son of Heaven."

"But after much thought,

I felt this matter should first be submitted to the Grand Tutor."

Seeing Zuo Xiong's serious expression, Gu Xi grew curious and carefully read it through.

Instantly, his expression subtly changed.

Reform!

And it concerned the Han dynasty's most core institution!

——The System of Recommendation.

In recent years, under several enlightened emperors, the System of Recommendation had already undergone great change.

But what Zuo Xiong proposed now was different.

First—

was the age restriction.

He advocated that no one under forty be recommended; those who held office must possess sufficient life experience and accumulated knowledge.

Yet for exceptional talents with outstanding virtue or deeds, age limits would not apply.

Furthermore—

was the core of this memorial.

It demanded that all recommended candidates first take an examination in the Imperial Offices.

Confucian scholars would be tested on classical texts; those from literary or historical backgrounds would be tested on memorials and documents.

That is: "Candidates for the classics shall be examined in their school's method; clerks shall be tested on memorials and reports."

After passing the Imperial Offices' examination, they would undergo a re-examination by the Department of State Affairs.

Holding the memorial in hand,

Gu Xi froze, countless thoughts exploding in that instant, his gaze suddenly stiffening.

He seemed to have realized something.

Even his expression had changed.

Gu Xi had been regent for years, and such a clear change in expression was extremely rare!

"Excellent!"

He nodded slightly, a hint of delight appearing on his face: "Bohao is truly a man of great talent!"

"This strategy has opened my eyes!"

He had no idle words.

He returned the memorial directly to Zuo Xiong, then said: "Bohao may submit your memorial as you see fit."

"At that time, I will certainly lend Bohao a helping hand."

Upon hearing this, Zuo Xiong's face immediately lit up with joy.

Why had he come to see Gu Xi?

He knew that if this matter were to become public, it would surely provoke widespread discontent.

Liu Bao had shown signs of a wise ruler.

But he was still young.

Zuo Xiong feared that Liu Bao, unprepared, might not withstand the pressure.

But now Gu Xi had nodded.

Then this matter would surely succeed!

"Your servant bows in thanks to the Grand Tutor." Zuo Xiong offered no idle words; after bowing solemnly, he departed.

Gu Xi remained seated, recalling the contents of the memorial, lost in deep thought.

Gu Yi also noticed this scene; seeing Gu Xi lost in thought, he became curious.

Who was Zuo Xiong?

In the original history,

the reforms he proposed laid the foundation for the later imperial examination system.

The emergence of this system significantly improved the administrative integrity of the Eastern Han at all levels.

It even gave the entire Eastern Han a sign of revival.

This was the process of institutional refinement.

Gu Yi did not know what Gu Xi might deduce from his contemplation.

Yet precisely because of this uncertainty, Gu Yi grew even more eager.

The next day.

Zuo Xiong submitted a memorial during the morning court.

And fully explained the reasons for reform.

As expected, the matter instantly caused massive upheaval within the court.

Ministers such as the Minister of the Secretariat Hu Guang and the Minister of the Secretariat Shi Chang immediately submitted memorials opposing it.

Liu Bao had indeed never witnessed such a scene before.

He made no decision on the spot.

Inside the Northern Palace.

As soon as Liu Bao entered the hall, he turned immediately to Gu Xi and asked: "Grand Tutor, what do you think of Zuo Xiong's memorial today?"

"What does Your Majesty think?"

Gu Xi replied with a question.

Liu Bao was already accustomed to this manner; after a moment of thought, he slowly nodded: "I believe this matter is feasible."

"Grand Tutor."

"I believe the examination system truly enhances the capabilities of our Han officials."

"It benefits the common people of the realm."

"."

He spoke earnestly to Gu Xi, laying out his own thought.

Gu Xi's face naturally showed satisfaction; he nodded slightly: "Since Your Majesty is the ruler, if you hold this intention, you may proceed."

"But—" Liu Bao hesitated.

"Your Majesty, rest assured," Gu Xi smiled faintly, "I will assist Your Majesty in calming the ministers."

At these words, Liu Bao's eyes instantly brightened.

This was the source of his great confidence.

Gu Xi could resolve any problem for him.

But then Gu Xi's next words left Liu Bao frozen in place.

"Your Majesty, after this matter is settled, I wish to resign."

Liu Bao stared at Gu Xi, instinctively reaching out to grasp him: "Grand Tutor, how can you abandon me?"

"Your Majesty—"

Gu Xi smiled lightly: "Since the second year of Yongyuan, I have been valued by Emperor Xiaohe and entered court service."

"It has now been forty springs and autumns."

"Since Emperor Xiaohe entrusted me with the care of the young emperor, I have never dared to slacken, fearing I might betray his final trust."

"Now I am past fifty."

"The Han state is stable, and Your Majesty shows the signs of a wise ruler."

"It is time for me to lay down my burden."

"To enjoy my remaining years in peace."

Gu Xi's smile was carefree.

Upon hearing this, Liu Bao's eyes also subtly reddened.

Though he still did not wish for Gu Xi to leave.

But seeing Gu Xi's completely white hair, he could not bring himself to say a word.

This was a sign of having poured too much heart and blood!

The Longevity Card could indeed ensure Gu Xi died peacefully in his bed, but the cost of that heart and blood had turned his hair entirely white.

Liu Bao fell silent for a long while, finally letting out a deep sigh and saying nothing more.

Gu Xi, by contrast, was utterly calm.

He truly wished to retire.

It was no longer just for the family—he had developed many thoughts because of Zuo Xiong's reforms, and he wanted to quiet his mind and think deeply.

And there was one more thing.

He realized Liu Bao had always relied on him.

Because of this, whenever Liu Bao faced major matters, he always asked Gu Xi first.

For an Emperor, this was not a good thing.

The hall fell silent at once.

Liu Bao seemed truly heartbroken.

This time, Gu Xi did not comfort him further; instead, he bowed to him and slowly withdrew.

The next day, court struggles continued as before.

But this time, it was different from before.

Liu Bao publicly decided to adopt Zuo Xiong's plan.

The ministers had intended to speak further.

But Gu Xi cut them off, stepping forward to bow to Liu Bao and cry out, "Your Majesty is wise!"

The hall instantly fell dead silent.

Even though Gu Xi had relinquished power years ago.

Yet the intimidating presence of that sword-bearing figure had never faded among the ministers!

The matter was settled at once.

And not long after,

Gu Xi announced his resignation before the court.

The impact of this was even greater than the reforms from a few days prior.

Gu Xi is resigning?

This name had reigned at the very top of Han's heavens for decades!

Since entering court at age eleven as a Lang!

Gu Xi had already become the most prominent figure in the entire Han court.

Later, through Liu Zhao's deathbed trust, managing natural disasters, quelling rebellions in the north, and countless other merits, Gu Xi had long transcended the category of mere minister.

And now, this man was resigning?

Only at this moment did everyone realize Gu Xi was already past fifty.

He was too dominant.

Dominant enough that the ministers had grown accustomed to his presence and forgotten this fact.

Yet the ministers' reaction was still immense.

After the earlier purge, the court was now almost entirely composed of capable ministers.

Liu Bao was only fifteen.

With a man like Gu Xi holding the court in check, it was beneficial for both ministers and Emperor.

Immediately, countless memorials were sent to Liu Bao's desk.

All of them urged Liu Bao to persuade Gu Xi to stay.

Some even cited the example of King Cheng of Zhou retaining the Duke of Zhou, hoping Liu Bao would do the same for Gu Xi.

Of course, others went to seek out Gu Xi.

Trying to persuade him not to leave, speaking of Han's state and such things.

But Gu Xi gave a calm reply.

He was destined to leave.

But whether it was Han or Your Majesty, both must move forward—how could they collapse because one man was gone?

The ministers immediately sensed his resolve.

From that day on, the entire Han court inexplicably carried a sense of sorrow.

——Year Yongjian Five, Autumn.

Inside Chongde Hall, today's court session was unusually heavy and stifling.

Many ministers wore sorrowful expressions; Liu Bao did as well.

Clearly, they had not abandoned their hope of persuading Gu Xi to stay.

In court,

ministers spoke one after another, pleading with Liu Bao to persuade Gu Xi to remain.

Liu Bao could no longer hold back his tears.

He slowly rose, gazed across the ministers on the Grand Steps, and wept: "Long ago, it was the Grand Tutor who took my hand and helped me ascend the throne."

Yet now the Grand Tutor is old, his black hair turned white.

How could I, as I once did, grasp his sleeve and refuse to let him go?

Tears continuously fell from Liu Bao's eyes.

Hearing his words, the ministers gradually fell silent.

Gu Xi's eyes also grew slightly red; he slowly knelt and bowed his head in silence.

Liu Bao slightly lifted his head and proclaimed the imperial edict.

He ordered the Lanshi Lingshi to compose a fu, to proclaim Gu Xi's Merit throughout the four seas.

He then declared that henceforth, all officials, when meeting the Grand Tutor, shall treat him as if he were still present.

Finally, he walked before Gu Xi, took his hand, and said solemnly:

"Long ago, it was the Grand Tutor who brought me into the palace; today, as the Grand Tutor departs, I shall personally see him off."

Though this arrangement violated ritual propriety, not a single minister dared to object.

Who could match Gu Xi's Merit?

His standing in Liu Bao's heart was known to all.

Not father and son, yet greater than father and son!

The news spread swiftly.

When the people of Luoyang heard that Gu Xi intended to leave the court, all were deeply shaken.

On the day of his departure, Liu Bao personally held the purple reins and drove Gu Xi's carriage, while civil and military officials, clad in red court robes, lined the road to bid him farewell.

As they passed through the marketplace,

the people of Luoyang spontaneously came to see Gu Xi off; sobs echoed endlessly.

————————

"In the autumn of the fifth year of Yongjian, the Grand Tutor Gu Xi submitted a memorial requesting to retire and return to his hometown.

The court was in uproar; some said, 'If the state elder departs, the pillars of the realm will crumble,' while others said, 'The holy sovereign should emulate King Cheng and retain Duke Zhou.'

The Emperor, upon ascending the throne, wept and said: 'When I, still a child, ascended the throne, the Grand Tutor led me to the imperial heights and held my hand, teaching me the Way of the "Tai Shi": "Heaven's vision is the people's vision."

Now, a minister of three reigns wishes to leave the court. Though I am loath to let him go, how can I act like a child tugging at his sleeve?'

Thus he ordered the Lanshi Lingshi to compose the 'Fu of the Grand Tutor' to glorify his virtue and proclaim it throughout the four seas.

Its text read: 'He quelled the locust plagues across the nine provinces, restoring granaries to overflowing; he terrified the rebellions of the Southern Xiongnu and Western Qiang, forever pacifying the borders; he shattered the usurping plots of the Dou and Yan clans, restoring the safety of the ancestral temple—these are all the Grand Tutor's mighty deeds, holding the pivot of state and averting heaven's collapse.'

When he departed, the Emperor personally held the purple reins and drove his carriage, while the officials wore red robes and lined the road.

When the people of Luoyang heard the imperial carriage pass through the market, the elderly burned incense at their doorways, and children broke willow branches by the roadside.

Gu Xi, in plain robes and a simple carriage, passed through Kaiyang Gate, when a northern wind swept aside the curtain, revealing his white head and frosty temples; all who saw him wept.

At that moment, a Qiang chieftain who had submitted to Han knelt before the palace and bowed long: 'In days past, you spared my people from the knife and cauldron, saving countless lives on the western frontier; now, as you depart eastward with your cap removed, I still hear the sound of those ancient flutes and drums!'

The Emperor, hearing this, was overcome with sorrow, and pointed his jade whip toward the Yun Tai Tower in the Southern Palace: 'These beams and pillars shall bear the Grand Tutor's Merit, as an eternal inscription of his governance.'

——Records of the Later Han. Biography of Gu Xi

(End of Chapter)