I Can Control My Ancestors

Chapter 638: Chapter 93: Zichen Claims the Throne, Gu Clan Sounds Its Blade

"The matter of reform, pulling one hair moves the whole body."

"The Grand Tutor is loyally devoted to the nation, yet such matters are significant and must be handled with utmost caution. Seeking diverse opinions and proceeding gradually, how could it be decided with a single word?"

"....."

Voices of opposition echoed through the grand hall in an instant.

Some did support Gu Xuan’s ideas, but they were always a minority compared to the opposition.

Of course, this is also due to the reputation of the Gu Clan.

If it were someone exceptionally ruthless, these people might be apprehensive, but given the reputation of the Gu Clan, at least their advice doesn’t provoke targeted retaliation from them.

As he listened to everyone’s varied opinions, Li Heng’s expression grew increasingly complex.

Unlike the thoughts of the ministers.

He truly felt that implementing reforms at this time was indeed somewhat hasty.

Of course, he also harbored some inner resistance.

Perhaps it was precisely because he knew how difficult it was for him to become Emperor, Li Heng’s desire for control over power far exceeded that of ordinary people.

Whether it’s the power in the hands of the ministers or the power in the hands of Gu Xuan, the Grand Tutor.

He wanted to firmly grasp it all in his own hands.

Even though he knew very well that the Gu Clan wouldn’t threaten his throne, there was always a thorn in his heart that he couldn’t suppress.

Gu Yi was not surprised by this at all.

At any time, implementing reforms is not that easy, let alone considering those from historical precedents, just like Gu Xi’s previous attempts at reform, how did that turn out?

This matter is not something that can be rushed.

After the ministers gradually fell silent, he controlled Gu Xuan to calmly say, "Your Majesty and fellow colleagues, you speak of peace of mind."

"However, is the peace of mind referring to the peace of the Kaiyuan era?"

"Or the peace of the Zhenguan era?"

"Or the peace before An Lushan’s rebellion, when the vassals grew strong, border defenses slackened, governance gradually decayed, and the treasuries became increasingly empty?"

With just a simple statement, the entire grand hall fell into a dead silence.

Gu Xuan stood and surveyed the astonished crowd, then once again bowed to Li Heng, "I know that Your Majesty is concerned about the foundation of the nation."

"However, the foundation of the nation does not lie in rigidly adhering to old rules, but in the eternal stability of the dynasty and the well-being of the common people."

"Reform is not about being unconventional, but about laying the true, unchangeable foundation for our Great Tang!"

"I have already drafted a detailed proposal, and it will be presented to Your Majesty for review tomorrow."

"This concerns the fate of the nation, so I ask Your Majesty... to make a wise decision swiftly!"

As Gu Xuan finished speaking, without waiting for any response from Li Heng, he bowed and declared in a clear voice, "I am exhausted from my journey back to the capital, mentally and physically fatigued, so I shall take my leave first!"

With that, he turned without hesitation, slightly lifting his robe’s sleeve, and strode directly toward the towering hall gate.

The entire process..... although not lacking in courtesy, the unwavering and resolute demeanor carried a suffocating sense of oppression.

The entire Zichen Hall seemed to be instantly drained of sound.

Everyone—from Li Heng seated on the dragon throne to the civil and military officials—stood frozen on the spot.

Li Heng’s facial expression changed rapidly; he opened his mouth, his adam’s apple bobbing, but ultimately, he couldn’t utter a single word.

The ministers exchanged glances, some dumbfounded, others bowing their heads.

In the vast hall, only Gu Xuan’s steady and clear footsteps echoed, until his figure disappeared beyond the hall doors.

In stark contrast to the frozen shock inside the hall, Gu Yi’s heart remained as calm as an ancient well.

All of this was, of course, intentional on his part.

It was not due to any ulterior motive. Even when Gu Yi first entered the game, he had no interest in the throne, let alone now, when he has already matured.

This act was intended to make the ministers choose sides and also to declare his stance to the entire realm.

The Gu Clan is no longer the Gu Clan of the Former Han.

The members of the Gu Clan can die for the nation, but the prerequisite is that the one sitting on the dragon throne is worthy, beyond that, the Gu Clan cares only for the myriad lands of the Kyushu.

Whether it’s Li Heng’s little intentions.... or the intentions of the court ministers....

Gu Yi can see it all clearly.

In the past, perhaps he would have chosen to contend with these people.

But at least now, he has completely lost that interest.

The Gu Clan has never been an easy target, and the information sent by Ryukyu has gradually made Gu Yi aware of a problem he never cared about before.

Even the Kong family of Qufu, which could accommodate and continue their lineage uninterruptedly under the iron hoof of foreign powers, could exist peacefully in the annals of history....

Why can’t the current Gu Clan?

.....

(Ps: I’m begging for monthly votes, brothers, please show your support generously, Yu is immensely grateful.)