[{"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-97":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},2285766,4471,"Chapter 97: The Passing of Liu Bei, A Renewal of All Things","controlling-my-ancestors-building-an-immortal-cl-chapter-97",97,"\u003Cp>Upon hearing the news of Gu Wei’s passing, Gu Chen was overcome with grief.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Perhaps it was because of the different era.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The Gu Shizi of this generation were connected far more deeply than those before them.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Every one of them carried far too much upon their shoulders.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The expectations of the common people;\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The dying wishes of their ancestors.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>This made the bond between this generation of Gu Shizi extremely deep; how could Gu Chen not be heartbroken?\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>However, he did not leave Youzhou to return to Luoyang.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Gu Wei was right.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>For the Gu Shizi of their generation, being able to fulfill the dying wish of Gu Xi from years past was already the greatest fortune of their lives.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Time would not pause for anyone.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The person was gone, and no matter how much grief they felt in their hearts, everyone could only inherit the will of the departed and move forward.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Having stationed troops in Youzhou for several years, Gu Chen had now fully discovered the strength of the foreign tribes.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>This strength even exceeded his previous expectations.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>This was also one of the main reasons why Gu Chen chose to station troops in Youzhou himself.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The foreign tribes had now truly felt the terror of Gu Chen, and as time passed, they had gradually settled down somewhat.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>But Gu Chen did not lower his guard.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>He could be certain.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>This deterrence would completely collapse upon his passing.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The struggle between the Great Han and the foreign tribes would by no means end so easily; only through a great battle that turned the sun and moon pale could this crisis be thoroughly resolved.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Gu Wei’s death made Gu Chen realize even more the preciousness of time.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>He poured his all into teaching the soldiers in the army.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Jiang Wei, Deng Ai, Guanqiu Jian, and several other seventh-generation Gu Shizi who excelled in martial arts were all under his tutelage.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Gu Chen had originally thought he still had at least several years.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>But the urgent news from Luoyang shattered Gu Chen’s plans.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>—Zhang Fei, heartbroken over the passing of Guan Yu, drank wine day and night.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>His body finally could not bear the burden.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>He fell gravely ill and passed away.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>This became the final straw that broke Liu Bei, causing him to collapse instantly.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>For an Emperor;\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Liu Bei was indeed a bit too sentimental.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>But this was also Liu Bei’s strength; without this character, he absolutely could not have reached this day.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Liu Bei’s imperial edict was quickly sent to Youzhou.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Gu Chen could ignore others.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>But not Liu Bei.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Now that the world of the Great Han had only recently been pacified, no matter what, there had to be someone capable of suppressing the world to hold down Luoyang.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Gu Chen had to return to Luoyang.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Luoyang, within the North Palace.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The atmosphere was incomparably heavy.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Liu Bei lay on the bed, his face like snow, his life hanging by a thread with only one breath left, yet he had been struggling to hold on.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Beside him, the Crown Prince Liu Chan and several other heirs were filled with sorrow, tears falling incessantly.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Ministers such as Zhuge Liang and Xun Yu were also filled with grief.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>At this moment, the sound of urgent footsteps suddenly rang out.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Before the guards could announce him, Gu Chen’s figure rushed directly into the North Palace, passing through the ministers and walking straight to Liu Bei’s side.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Looking at Liu Bei’s dying state on the bed, his eyes also revealed a trace of complexity.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>But the moment Liu Bei saw Gu Chen, his eyes regained a glimmer of light.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Ziyan!\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Before Gu Chen could speak, Liu Bei let out a low roar, instinctively trying to sit up.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>But his body was truly too weak.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>That he could persist until today was entirely due to his great willpower.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>He had been waiting for Gu Chen.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>As the Emperor, how could Liu Bei not understand the current state of the world?\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Although everything seemed to have stepped onto the right track.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>But if there was no one capable of suppressing the world to hold the seat, with the slightest carelessness, the Great Han might return to the old path.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The most critical point was—\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Regarding the Crown Prince Liu Chan, he was truly somewhat uneasy.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Your Majesty.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Looking at Liu Bei before him, a trace of sorrow flashed through Gu Chen’s eyes; he stepped forward quickly, firmly supported Liu Bei with both hands, sighed heavily, and blamed himself:\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Your subject has arrived late!\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Ziyan.\" Liu Bei gripped Gu Chen’s hand tightly, his head shaking eagerly, his expression extremely earnest, \"I have said long ago, Ziyan, you are by no means an ordinary subject.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>His gaze was burning, his eye sockets red as blood.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>A thousand words surged in his throat, but fearing time was short, he swallowed them back; finally, he just stared fixedly at Gu Chen, saying word by word, solemnly: \"Ziyan’s talent exceeds mine a hundredfold.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"At this final moment, I have only a great matter to entrust.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Liu Bei gripped Gu Chen’s hand with increasing force, his knuckles turning slightly white, \"The Great Han, I entrust to you!\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>This short sentence seemed to carry infinite weight, filled with his earnest expectations and worries for the Great Han.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Gu Chen felt his eye sockets grow hot, his vision instantly blurring.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Although his contact with Liu Bei was not much, even after supporting Liu Bei’s ascension to the throne, Gu Chen had spent most of his time away.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>But this did not hinder Gu Chen’s feelings for Liu Bei.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Liu Bei was indeed a benevolent Emperor.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>That he could give Gu Chen such great power, and never once thought of targeting him, already explained his extraordinary nature.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Gu Chen did not say much, only gripped Liu Bei’s hand back and nodded earnestly.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Seeing this, the worry in Liu Bei’s eyes dissipated like light smoke.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>He turned his neck with difficulty, casting his gaze toward the Crown Prince Liu Chan who was kneeling to the side, his voice as hoarse as sandpaper rubbing: \"Adou.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Father Emperor!\" Liu Chan spoke immediately, his voice weeping.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Liu Bei stared at him tightly, then waved his finger toward Gu Chen: \"In the past, I stood by the Luoshui River, before all the people, and swore an oath to the world.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"I shall never fail the Gu family.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"The tripod of the Liu family shall be engraved with the name of the Gu family.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"After I die, you must serve the Envoy as you would a father; you must never act like the three Emperors Jing, Ping, Huan, and Ling, failing the expectations of the people and throwing my Great Han into chaos.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>His voice grew weaker, but he still held on to his last breath, looking at Gu Chen once more: \"Ziyan.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"The Crown Prince is weak and untalented.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"If he cannot establish the state, Ziyan may find another to establish it.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"I only hope for the peace and health of the state.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>This was the first time Liu Bei had referred to himself as 'Zhen' in front of Gu Chen.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>But the words spoken were infinitely sincere.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>—He could depose or enthrone an Emperor!\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>A simple sentence, which could be said to have handed the entire Great Han over to Gu Chen alone.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>It gave Gu Chen supreme power.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Although Gu Chen could have done this anyway, this was fundamentally different.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Liu Bei was giving Gu Chen the legitimate right!\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Yet those present did not find it strange at all, and even felt it was only right and proper.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Gu Chen’s eyes also gradually turned red.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Looking at Liu Bei, whose life hung by a thread before him, he finally understood what Gu Xi had meant years ago by a wise ruler and a virtuous minister.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>He did not say much, only nodded earnestly.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Immediately, he performed the kowtow ritual to Liu Bei for the first time.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Liu Bei finally closed his eyes completely.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Your Majesty!!!\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Sounds of grief resounded.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Gu Chen knelt before Liu Chan and the ministers, a tear inevitably sliding from the corner of his eye.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The seventh year of Zhangwu, the day of Guiyou in the month of Ruyue;\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>—Liu Bei passed away in the North Palace of Luoyang.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>At the moment of his passing, he entrusted the orphan to Gu Chen, granting him the power to depose or enthrone the Son of Heaven.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Crown Prince Liu Chan ascended the throne.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>He was posthumously titled Zhaowu.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The passing of a founding monarch like Liu Bei was destined to have a profound impact on the current Great Han.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Although Liu Bei had long since issued an edict stating that he wished to emulate the funeral rites of past emperors like Emperor Guangwu and Emperor Xiaoming, keeping everything simple.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Yet the necessary rites naturally could not be omitted;\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The state funeral arrived as scheduled.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>However, perhaps because Gu Chen had already returned to Luoyang, the entire world did not see any turmoil.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>In fact, compared to when Liu Bei was alive, officials everywhere appeared even more as if treading on thin ice.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Under these circumstances, Liu Chan ascended the throne securely.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>And regarding this new Emperor, Gu Chen finally had some judgment.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Setting aside his talent.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Liu Chan was truly obedient.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>He had absolutely no desire to hold power; whenever he faced any matter, large or small, he would simply say, \"Let the Imperial Foster Father decide.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Furthermore, Gu Chen could be certain that Liu Chan was not putting on an act, but was completely sincere.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>This left even Gu Chen quite astonished.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>For an emperor.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Possessing such a personality was extremely rare.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Even if his talent was insufficient, as long as he had the help of ministers dedicated to assisting the Han, Liu Chan's personality could absolutely be considered that of a qualified ruler who could maintain the status quo.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>This gave Gu Chen a clear judgment regarding the future of the Great Han.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Although the way he became famous throughout the world was through warfare.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Yet Gu Chen, this almost perfect all-around warrior, had no weaknesses to begin with.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Especially since the current Great Han still possessed many capable people.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Zhuge Liang, Xun Yu, Pang Tong, Fa Zheng, and a series of other capable people could all provide Gu Chen with immense help.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Often, as long as Gu Chen could set the preliminary plan, these people could discuss more specific details and implement them well.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>This could be said to have brought the administrative speed of the Great Han to an unprecedented scale.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The world was not in the slightest bit chaotic.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>As the only member of the Gu clan to date who could be considered to have traversed the entire world, Gu Chen was now able to carry the traditions of the Gu clan members to the extreme.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Regarding the reclamation of land in various provinces, those noble clan members who had committed crimes in the past found a use at such a time.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Gu Chen left them with some hope.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>As long as they could reclaim a certain amount of land, they would be pardoned.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Moreover, based on the notes and experiences left behind by Gu Kang in the past, Gu Chen carried out water conservancy projects throughout the world and lent grain seeds to the common people in all directions.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>He also abolished the poll tax that had intensified since the time of Emperor Wu of Han, restoring the light taxation of the early Former Han.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>He took the opportunity to stimulate the population.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>In fact, within this system of feudal dynasties.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Whether the common people could live in prosperity.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Natural disasters and human turmoil were one aspect, but clean governance was also a key factor.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The current Great Han was at a time of renewal.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The cleanliness of the administration far exceeded that of the past.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The foundation of the population played a major role at such a time.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Under these various factors, the national strength of the entire Great Han began to recover rapidly.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Of course, although Gu Chen had returned to Luoyang, his attention to the frontiers was not the least bit diminished.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The wars on the four frontiers never ceased.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The lifestyle of the barbarians destined that they would need to trade plunder for survival for some time to come.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>This was the core factor between the two sides that could not be reconciled.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>While governing the world, Gu Chen simultaneously set up granaries along the four frontiers to prepare for subsequent major battles.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>He did not know how much time he had left.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>But given Gu Chen's personality, as long as he could stand for one more day, he would never stop his forward progress.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Regarding his judgment, the ministers had not the slightest doubt.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>This was perhaps one of the most critical advantages of the current Great Han.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The ministers in the court worked together with one heart;\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>They all had absolute trust in Gu Chen, and each person possessed talent in different areas, being highly excellent in every aspect.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>With such a Great Han, how could any chaos arise?\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Reports of victory arrived one after another from the four frontiers.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Jiang Wei, Guanqiu Jian, Deng Ai, and others successively defeated the bandits, thwarting the barbarians' desire to plunder.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>At the same time, Gu Chen was also striving to promote the great cause of Gu Xi from the past.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The rubbing of woodblock printing had never stopped over these years.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>As the national strength of the Great Han gradually recovered.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Gu Chen established libraries in various places and decreed that students of the Imperial Academy must go to teach in libraries across the land for at least half a year before becoming officials.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>He also included their conduct during their teaching period in the evaluations, thereby spreading the knowledge monopolized by noble families to all corners.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>This matter was destined to require a slow process.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>For the common people at the very bottom.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>What they needed to learn first was not the most advanced knowledge, but basic literacy;\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>For this, Gu Chen even established a specialized department.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Named \"Elementary Learning.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Used to hire teachers to provide enlightenment to the people.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>It was stipulated that males under ten years of age could go to Elementary Learning for enlightenment.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>If this were done in any other era, it would be destined to cause an uproar.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Only with Gu Chen doing it personally could this matter be easily accomplished.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>But even so, this matter could only be planned slowly; one could not take too large a step.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>It could only be popularized bit by bit from Luoyang and the slightly more affluent regions of the capital territory to the four corners.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>And as for what method to use to attract the common people to participate, Gu Chen's method was also very simple.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>He simply told the people everywhere: \"If you study well, you can become an official.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>For the common people at the very bottom.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Only such simple words could attract their attention.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>When they first heard of this, the common people's first reaction was naturally disbelief.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>After all, for them.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Being able to become an official was something they had never dared to imagine before.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>But hearing that this was personally decreed by Gu Chen, they all fell silent.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Immediately following that was that thunderous shout.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>—The capital territory shook!\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The common people everywhere shouted \"Long live\" and bowed toward Luoyang.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Even though not a single commoner from the very bottom had become an official yet.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>But out of trust in Gu Chen and the Gu clan.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>These common people, who had lived at the very bottom for generations, finally felt hope for the future.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>And for humans, animals with complex thoughts;\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>—The most precious thing is hope.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>As long as there is hope.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Then the hearts of these common people will be firmly tied to the imperial court.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The rigidity of class ideology finally began to loosen.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Gu Yi had been watching everything, and his heart was also incredibly complex.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>In fact, looking at it from the perspective of later generations;\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The system that Gu Chen and the others had set up now indeed still had major flaws.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>But what of it?\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>How could there be a perfect system in the world?\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>There are only systems suitable for different eras.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Compared to the original history, this progress in the system was already exceptionally advanced.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Progress in thought is the most difficult and precious progress, and this would absolutely have a profound impact on the overall development of later generations.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Gu Yi was now increasingly looking forward to the development of the entire Great Han.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Although he understood.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>In this world, there is no such thing as an eternal dynasty.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Yet he could also vaguely sense that this Great Han would likely become the dynasty with the greatest influence on the entire feudal era of the Nine Provinces.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>And the name of the Gu family would always be carved upon it.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Becoming an existence that could never be erased from the annals of history.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Ninth year of Zhangwu, fourth month;\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Gu Ze passed away in Julu.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>With this, all members of the sixth generation of the Gu family, except for Gu Chen, had passed away.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Although Gu Ze had never left Julu from beginning to end;\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Yet as the teacher of Zhuge Liang and the contemporary head of the Gu family, Liu Chan still held a grand funeral for Gu Ze, and even wanted to bestow a posthumous title of honor upon him.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>However, Gu Ze seemed to have anticipated this.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>He had long since sent word to Gu Chen and Zhuge Liang, specifically stating that they must not bestow a posthumous title upon him.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Even Gu Liang, who had served in the imperial court in the past but had not achieved great merit, had refused a posthumous title, fearing it would tarnish the reputation of his ancestors.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>How could Gu Ze covet a beautiful name in the annals of history?\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>For him.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>From the moment he returned to Julu all those years ago.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>He had completely abandoned all his ideals and ambitions for this life, living only for the family.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Even though he held the ambition of mountains in his heart, he still smiled as he returned to the yellow soil.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>This matter had a profound impact on Gu Chen.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Although he was the youngest member of the sixth generation of the Gu family, after years of warfare, he had never thought he would become the longest-lived person of the Gu family's sixth generation.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>An irrepressible loneliness filled Gu Chen's heart.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>This was the first time since Gu Chen began his cause that he had set everything aside and remained in seclusion within his manor for three full days.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>After he walked out of the manor again, everyone could clearly feel that an air of twilight had appeared upon him.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Gu Chen seemed to have become the Gu Xi of the past.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The dignity he carried grew increasingly intense.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Even the ministers who were well-acquainted with him could feel obvious pressure in his presence.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>From then on, Gu Chen worked even more desperately.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>In addition to his usual administrative duties, Gu Chen began to select officials for the Great Han.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>He did not only look at the officials' talents.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>He also looked at their character.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>And whether they supported the new policies.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Of course, Gu Chen would not forget the education of the Gu family descendants.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The current seventh generation of the Gu family was not weak in ability; whether in internal affairs or martial arts, outstanding individuals had emerged.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>This was indeed a vibrant and flourishing trend;\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Even if it could not compare to the era of heroes and overlords of the past, this era was destined to be dazzling.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Zhang Hua, Yang Hu, and others were successively promoted by Gu Chen.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Using his judgment of human nature, Gu Chen quickly built a young team centered on the new policies in a short period, gradually taking over the burdens from the hands of the elders.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Tenth year of Zhangwu, sixth month;\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Xun Yu passed away with a smile.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>This person, who could be said to be the first to choose to follow Gu Chen, had finally reached the end of his life.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Perhaps it was because too many people had passed away.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Gu Chen only felt numb toward this.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>On his deathbed, Gu Chen went to see him and asked what he wanted.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>But Xun Yu only smiled and shook his head.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>For him, being able to preserve his family line, seeing the Great Han rise again, and sparing his family from some of the curses in the history books was already enough; what other wishes could he have?\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>He did not even ask Gu Chen to help look after his descendants.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>As one of the core figures in the court, Xun Yu understood the current changes in the Great Han very well.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>If a family wanted to remain glorious, it could only rely on its own efforts; he had long since seen through these things.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Gu Chen bestowed upon him the posthumous title of \"Marquis of Virtue and Righteousness.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>And right after the funeral.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Gu Chen also gradually handed over the state affairs to Zhuge Liang.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>He wanted to clear away some threats for this bright world in the time he had left!\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>North Palace.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Sandalwood incense curled in the air.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Liu Chan looked at Gu Chen with a nervous expression and said with some reluctance, \"Must the Foster Father truly lead the army out?\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"At your age, I am truly worried.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"I cannot do without you.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Although he had been Emperor for several years, Liu Chan was still the same as before; when facing Gu Chen, he even imitated Liu Bei and dared not refer to himself as 'Zhen'.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>At this moment, Zhuge Liang also arrived upon hearing the summons.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>As soon as he stepped into the hall, he immediately sensed that the atmosphere was wrong.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>First, he glanced at the reluctant Liu Chan, instantly guessing something, and his expression changed slightly.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"The Grand Tutor has arrived.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Liu Chan did not think that much, and without waiting for Zhuge Liang to salute, he eagerly spoke, \"Quick, help me persuade the Foster Father; you must not let the Foster Father take risks.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Kongming, sit.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Gu Chen's expression did not change at all; he merely pointed to the seat that had been prepared nearby.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Hearing this, Zhuge Liang hurriedly cupped his hands.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>He then sat down and asked in a deep voice, \"Is Lord Gu going to campaign against the barbarians of the four directions?\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>With his intelligence.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Naturally, he had already had some guesses.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Gu Chen nodded slightly and said in a deep voice, \"Even if this battle cannot wipe out the barbarians, it must destroy their edge.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"To win ten years of time for our Great Han.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Gu Chen's tone was very calm, as if he were talking about a trivial matter, but no one would think Gu Chen was being arrogant.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>This was a plan he had already thought out long ago.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The Great Han still needed time to recover.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>No matter what, the stability of the world must be preserved.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Hearing this, Zhuge Liang also sighed softly; although he knew it was difficult to persuade Gu Chen, he could not help but speak, \"Why must Lord Gu lead the army personally?\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"The generals of the four directions are in the field...\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Before Zhuge Liang could finish, Gu Chen interrupted him directly, \"My grandfather was nearly ninety and could still mount a horse to kill the enemy.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Now I am only sixty, how can I retreat?\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"If a real man dies peacefully on his bed, what kind of achievement is that?\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>His tone paused, he shook his head slightly, and his gaze was exceptionally firm, \"I absolutely cannot tolerate the current world being threatened by anything!\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Absolutely not!\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>In an instant, both Zhuge Liang and Liu Chan fell silent.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>This was Gu Chen's character.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>With a will like iron, once he decided on a matter.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>No one could stop him!\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>——————\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"In the spring of the seventh year of Zhangwu, on the day of Guiyou, the Emperor passed away in the North Palace of Luoyang.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>At the time of his passing, an eight-hundred-mile urgent dispatch summoned Gu Chen to the palace; he unsheathed the Son of Heaven's sword and bestowed it upon him, saying, 'The Crown Prince is untalented; if he cannot be assisted, you may proceed with the act of deposition.'\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>After Gu Chen took charge of the government, he abolished the state monopoly on alcohol, reduced the poll tax, and sent embroidered-uniform envoys to inspect the prefectures and counties for corruption.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>In the first month of summer of the eighth year, he established the 'Primary School of Venerated Rites' in the capital region to provide enlightenment for the people.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>He decreed that before Imperial Academy students were appointed to positions, they must go to the schools of the prefectures and counties to study for half a year, using the 'Gu Rites' to educate and enlighten the students.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The examinations were divided into three categories: those who mastered the classics were appointed as Erudites, those who understood administrative affairs were appointed as Prefectural Clerks, and those who were skilled in exegesis were promoted to educational officials.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>He reformed the 'Monthly Critique' system, ordering prefectures and counties to evaluate scholars based on three grades: virtue, talent, and merit.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>At that time, the Luoyang Imperial Academy students struck their zithers and sang, 'Lord Gu established the rites and order, and from humble homes, phoenix feathers rise.'\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>—— \"Book of the Flaming Han, Biography of Gu Chen\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>(End of chapter)\u003C\u002Fp>",4310,"2026-06-20T03:16:01.192Z",1,"Gemini 3.1 Flash Lite","3e983b089f4cb79ae262a1b3fc69a3f5b898e7c52238b5d25dbbe3086ad0fad7","controlling-my-ancestors-building-an-immortal-cl-chapter-98","controlling-my-ancestors-building-an-immortal-cl-chapter-96",167,"https:\u002F\u002Fnovelzhen.com\u002Fimages\u002Fcovers\u002Fcontrolling-my-ancestors-building-an-immortal-cl-cover.jpg"]