Chapter 146 Rightfully So
On the sixth day of June, there will be a great meeting.
Just past the hour of Yin (3-5 AM), while the sky was still dark, the gates of the Duke of Zhenguo's mansion were already brightly lit. Gu Yangui, dressed in the Duke's court robes—black robes and crimson skirts, a golden crown and jade belt—was imposing and dignified. Su Wanrou personally adjusted his clothes, her movements gentle and meticulous.
“Today…” She looked up at him, a hint of nervousness in her eyes.
Gu Yangui held her hand, his palm warm and strong: "Don't worry."
Those two simple words instantly calmed Su Wanrou's heart. She knew he had been preparing for this day for a long time, and everything would go smoothly.
After seeing Gu Yangui off, Su Wanrou returned to the inner courtyard, but couldn't fall asleep again. She went to the "Songtao Studio" where Mingxuan lived, and saw that the candlelight was already on inside, and she could faintly hear the clear sound of a child reading. Since his formal education, Mingxuan had been getting up at this time every day to read, without ever slacking off.
She didn't go in to disturb them, but stood quietly under the ancient pine tree in the courtyard, listening to the childish yet earnest voice inside. Her heart was filled with maternal pride and a touch of indescribable sorrow. From this day forward, her Xuan'er would shoulder even heavier responsibilities.
In the Zichen Hall, all the officials stood solemnly.
The emperor sat upright on his dragon throne, listening to the reports from officials of various departments. When the Ministry of Rites finished its report and the hall fell into a moment of silence, a composed figure stepped out from the ranks of military officers, holding a jade tablet, and bowed respectfully.
"Your Majesty, I have a matter to report upon my return from the banquet."
All eyes of the court officials instantly focused on the usually low-key Duke of Zhenguo. Even the emperor on the dragon throne leaned forward slightly, showing concern: "What brings you here, Minister Gu?"
Gu Yangui's calm voice echoed clearly in the spacious hall: "Your Majesty, I request that, in accordance with the 'Zhou Law - Hereditary Rank System,' my eldest son, Gu Mingxuan, be established as the heir apparent of the Duke of Zhenguo's mansion, so as to stabilize the foundation of the state and reassure the people."
These words caused a slight commotion in the hall, which quickly subsided. Many officials exchanged knowing glances. The Duke of Zhenguo's request to establish a crown prince was expected. Although Gu Mingxuan was adopted, he had been raised by Gu Yangui since the age of five and was recorded in the family genealogy. Now, under the tutelage of renowned teachers, his talent was beginning to show, making his appointment as crown prince a logical step. Moreover, everyone knew that the Duke also doted on the youngest son born to his second wife. His request to establish his adopted son at this time further demonstrated his loyalty and commitment to his former friend.
On the dragon throne, the young emperor's lips curled slightly upward, a hint of understanding and approval flashing in his eyes. He had only been on the throne for three years, and this was precisely the time when he needed these powerful nobles and ministers to demonstrate their loyalty and stabilize the court. Gu Yangui's actions undoubtedly set an example for the people.
"Granted." The Emperor's voice was loud and clear, carrying an unquestionable majesty. "The position of heir of the Duke of Zhenguo's mansion has been vacant for several years. Now that Minister Gu has made his request, I am greatly pleased. Gu Mingxuan is intelligent and capable, and is worthy of the title. The Ministry of Rites and the Imperial Clan Court shall immediately proceed according to regulations and choose an auspicious day for the investiture ceremony."
"Your Majesty, I thank you for your great favor!" Gu Yangui bowed deeply, his posture respectful.
The Emperor waved his hand, his tone softening and becoming more intimate, "I have long heard of Minister Gu's hard work for the country and his excellent family education. I have also heard that the Crown Prince is studying under the esteemed Mr. Zhou Wenqian and is making great progress in his studies. At such a young age, he has already shown kindness and benevolence. This is truly a blessing for Minister Gu and for our Great Zhou."
"Your Majesty flatters me; I am unworthy of such praise. Mingxuan is still young and needs Your Majesty and the court to provide him with more guidance," Gu Yangui replied tactfully.
The emperor nodded in satisfaction, then looked at the Minister of Rites beside him: "The investiture ceremony must not be taken lightly; it must demonstrate the court's favor to the descendants of meritorious officials."
"Your subject obeys the decree." The Minister of Rites hurriedly stepped forward to receive the order.
A momentous event concerning the future of the Duke's mansion was decided in just a few words exchanged between the emperor and his minister in perfect harmony. The court bell rang, signaling the end of the session, and the officials withdrew from the Zichen Hall in turn. Many officials who were on good terms with Gu Yangui stepped forward to offer their congratulations.
"Congratulations, Your Excellency! With the heir apparent established, the foundation of the state is now secure!"
"Young Master Mingxuan is exceptionally intelligent and will surely inherit the mantle of the Duke and become a pillar of the nation."
Gu Yangui returned the greetings one by one, his expression remaining calm, but those who knew him well could see the joy in his slightly relaxed brows.
The news reached the Duke's mansion even before Gu Yangui arrived.
Su Wanrou was checking the household accounts when Zhou Mama rushed in with a beaming face, her voice trembling: "Madam! Great news! News has come from the palace that His Majesty has granted it! He has granted the Duke's request to establish our heir!"
Despite being mentally prepared, Su Wanrou's heart still skipped a beat, and she nearly dropped the pen. She took a deep breath, steadied herself, and asked, "Where is Master?"
"Master should be returning home soon. It was a eunuch from the palace who came to deliver the good news first." Granny Zhou couldn't stop smiling. "This is a momentous occasion! This old servant will immediately give the order to make proper preparations in the manor to receive the imperial decree!"
The entire Duke's mansion instantly sprang into action, filled with a festive atmosphere. The servants wore proud smiles and walked with a spring in their step.
Su Wanrou composed herself and instructed, "Go tell Xuan'er the good news first, and tell him that he doesn't need to go to the study anymore. He can change into clothes suitable for receiving guests, as there will likely be guests coming to congratulate him later. Also, prepare some reward money in the storeroom, and double the monthly allowance for everyone in the household this month."
"Yes, Madam!" Granny Zhou left happily.
Su Wanrou stood up, walked to the window, and looked at the bright summer scenery outside, her heart filled with mixed emotions. She was happy for Mingxuan, this child deserved the best recognition; she was also gratified for Gu Yangui, he could finally give his deceased brother the most solemn explanation; at the same time, a faint worry lingered in her heart—the title of heir was an honor, but also a heavy burden.
A moment later, Mingxuan arrived, dressed in a brand-new royal blue brocade robe. The child's face was flushed with excitement, and his eyes sparkled, but he maintained his good manners, first bowing respectfully to Su Wanrou.
“Mother,” he called out, his voice filled with barely suppressed joy.
Su Wanrou turned around, smiled and waved to him: "Xuan'er, come here."
Mingxuan walked to her side, and Su Wanrou gently straightened his collar, saying softly, "Xuan'er, from today onwards, you will rightfully be the heir of the Duke of Zhenguo. This is His Majesty's and Father's recognition and expectation of you. Do you know what this means?"
Mingxuan suppressed his smile and nodded seriously: "I understand. It means that I must study and practice martial arts even harder, and in the future I will be like my father, serving the country, bringing glory to the family, and protecting my mother and younger brother."
Hearing the child's innocent yet firm words, Su Wanrou's eyes welled up with tears, and she gently embraced him: "Good child. I don't ask that you achieve great fame in the future, I only hope that you will always remember what I said today and be an upright, kind, and responsible person."
"Your child will remember your teachings."
Just past noon, Gu Yan returned to his residence. Accompanying him were the emperor's official edict of investiture and officials representing the Ministry of Rites to arrange the ceremony.
An incense table had already been set up in the mansion, and the entire household knelt to receive the imperial edict. After the envoy finished reading the solemnly and elegantly worded edict, he solemnly handed over the jade book, crown, and other items symbolizing the heir apparent's status to Gu Yangui.
"Congratulations, Your Excellency! Congratulations, Your Excellency!" The eunuch delivering the imperial decree beamed with smiles.
Gu Yangui accepted the imperial edict and ordered the distribution of rewards. Immediately, congratulatory voices filled the mansion.
After seeing off the angel and the Ministry of Rites officials, Gu Yangui looked at Ming Xuan, who stood tall and straight beside Su Wanrou, and said in a deep voice, "Ming Xuan."
“Father,” Mingxuan stepped forward and bowed in response.
"From this day forward, you are the heir of the Duke of Zhenguo. You must remember your status, be self-disciplined and cultivate your character, study diligently and strive for progress, and live up to the Emperor's favor and the reputation of the Gu family."
"Yes! Your son will remember your instructions and will never fail Your Majesty and Father's expectations!" Mingxuan's voice was clear and strong.
Gu Yangui nodded, a gentle smile finally appearing on his serious face. He reached out and gently patted his son's shoulder: "Okay."
That evening, the Duke's mansion hosted a family banquet. Although it was only the four of them, it was exceptionally warm and cozy. Gu Yangui, unusually, drank a few cups of wine. Looking at Mingxuan, who was chattering about his day around Su Wanrou, and his second son, Gu Sheng, babbling and waving his little hands in his wet nurse's arms, his heart, hardened for many years, was filled with an unprecedented sense of fulfillment and warmth.
After the family dinner, Mingxuan was taken home to rest by his wet nurse. Gu Yangui and Su Wanrou walked side by side on the way back to the main courtyard. The summer night breeze carried the fragrance of flowers, which was refreshing and pleasant.
“Wanrou,” Gu Yangui stopped and took her hand, “thank you.”
Su Wanrou was slightly taken aback and looked up at him. In the moonlight, his deep eyes were filled with a surge of emotions, including relief, relief, and undisguised affection for her.
"Thank me for what?"
"Thank you for making this family whole." Gu Yangui's voice was deep and gentle. "Thank you for treating Mingxuan as your own son and for raising him so well. He deserves all the credit for this honor today."
Su Wanrou felt a warmth in her heart, and grasped his broad hand in return, saying softly, "Yan Gui, we are husband and wife, and Mingxuan is our child. This is what I should do. Being able to marry you and have Xuan'er and Sheng'er is my greatest blessing."
Gu Yangui didn't speak again, but simply tightened his grip on her hand. The two walked on in silence, their figures leaning against each other in the moonlight.
The ceremony to confer the title of heir apparent was scheduled for an auspicious day half a month later, presided over by the head of the Imperial Clan Court. The event was solemn and grand. Six-year-old Gu Mingxuan, dressed in specially made heir apparent robes, calmly and composedly completed all the elaborate rituals in front of officials and relatives. His demeanor was proper and his responses were natural, earning him high praise from the audience.
Watching her son steadily receive the golden seal of the heir apparent under the spotlight, Su Wanrou's eyes finally welled up with tears. She quietly turned her head and saw that Gu Yangui beside her, the iron-blooded war god who remained unmoved in the face of thousands of troops, also had slightly red eyes.
He felt her gaze, turned around, and smiled at her. Everything was understood without words.
This legitimate status not only gave Mingxuan a distinguished identity, but also provided the family with a solid and hopeful future. At this moment, the legacy of the Duke of Zhenguo's mansion was imbued with new meaning.
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