Chapter 326: The Origins of the Confucian Way

Chapter 326: The Origins of the Confucian Way

January 22nd, 2025

For the past eighteen years, the Gu Clan's bloodline had been growing stronger.

Fifty people.

This was not the limit for the Gu Clan.

After all, cultivators had long lifespans.

If given enough time, even with a low probability of procreation, descendants could still emerge.

Indeed, the low probability could be offset by increasing the number of attempts.

Thus, the overall probability could be improved accordingly.

If the Gu Clan's bloodline were to grow to five hundred, five thousand, or even fifty thousand people, spreading throughout the Primeval Wastes, it would be a completely different story.

Therefore, Gu Qingfeng had every reason to be confident.

He could even enter the Great Emperor Realm before the Great Contention Age arrived.

However, what truly concerned Gu Qingfeng at the moment was the changes in the younger generations of the Gu Clan.

To be precise, it was the second generation of the Gu Clan.

Among the second generation, Gu Qingfeng had the highest hopes for Gu Shengnan.

And indeed, Gu Shengnan did not disappoint.

Without relying on the resources of the Imperial Dynasty, she had gained numerous opportunities during her travels, gradually advancing to the ninth level of the Spirit Transformation Realm.

Moreover, based on Gu Shengnan's situation, she had the potential to reach the Daoist Palace Realm, but she chose to solidify her foundation instead of breaking through recklessly.

In comparison, the other second-generation members seemed somewhat ordinary.

Even the two brothers, Gu Shengxing and Gu Shengan, had mediocre talents.

Without significant opportunities, their future achievements would be limited.

However, what surprised Gu Qingfeng was that within just a decade, these two brothers had made remarkable progress.

First was Gu Shengan.

As the most talented among the brothers, he had gained opportunities to further enhance his talents and was the first among the second generation to enter the Daoist Palace Realm.

Then, there was Gu Shengxing.

He had entered the Dao through martial arts!

He had cultivated the Literary Heart and harnessed Vast Upright Energy!

In a short period, his cultivation had reached the fifth level of the Daoist Palace Realm, making him the foremost among the second generation.

"Vast Upright Energy!"

Gu Qingfeng murmured, and then he looked up, his eyes able to see the outside world.

In just over a decade, the Divine Martial Empire's fortune had reached a terrifying level.

However, if they were to talk about advancing to the Imperial Dynasty, they were still far from it.

After all, the transformation from a dynasty to an imperial dynasty was astonishing.

Such a transformation could not be compared to the promotion of a kingdom to an empire.

Therefore, even though the Divine Martial Empire had rapidly developed over the years by utilizing the resources of the Empire of Return to Origins, producing countless powerful individuals, it still had not been able to advance to the rank of an Imperial Dynasty.

In Gu Qingfeng's opinion, based on the current fortune of the Divine Martial Empire, it would take at least a hundred years or more of accumulation before there was a chance to advance to the Imperial Dynasty.

---

Emerging from seclusion!

Gu Qingfeng's first priority was to spend some intimate time with Xu Yulan.

After not seeing each other for over a decade, their reunion was like dry wood meeting a raging fire.

Even though Gu Qingfeng had reached this level of cultivation, many of his inner desires had diminished, but his feelings for Xu Yulan remained unchanged.

Next, Gu Qingfeng summoned Gu Peng.

"Have you reached the Daoist Palace Realm?"

Looking at the middle-aged cultivator before him, Gu Qingfeng raised his eyebrows slightly.

After more than a decade, not only did Gu Peng show no signs of aging, but he also looked slightly younger due to his cultivation breakthrough.

The barely noticeable white strands in his temples had disappeared.

However, his demeanor had become even more composed.

This composure was only displayed in front of others.

When standing before Gu Qingfeng, Gu Peng's composure vanished, and his face was filled with excitement.

"My talent is dull, and without the resources of the Manor, I wouldn't have had the chance to break through. Speaking of which, I should congratulate the Manor Master on his great success in cultivation!"

Gu Peng could not have missed the unusual phenomenon that occurred in the capital during his seclusion.

It was precisely because he witnessed it that he understood that this phenomenon was related to Gu Qingfeng.

It was evident that the person before him had secluded himself for over a decade and had advanced his strength to a terrifying level.

"It's not a great success, just a small achievement," Gu Qingfeng shook his head slightly.

Then, he asked Gu Peng about the current situation of the Gu Family Manor.

In just over a decade, the Gu Family Manor had developed rapidly.

The strength of numerous disciples had improved to varying degrees.

Most of the disciples who had left the Manor had entered the service of the court.

In particular, there were many traces of the Gu Clan's disciples within the Demon Subduing Bureau, the Heaven Patrol Guards, and the Brocade-clad Guards.

It could be said that the disciples of the Gu Family Manor had played a significant role in the expansion of the Divine Martial Empire.

The influx of fresh talent naturally helped alleviate the Divine Martial Empire's shortage of manpower.

However...

Once again, there was another issue at hand.

The problem was that there were too many people from the Gu Family Manor serving in the imperial court.

If the Gu Family Manor were under the influence of other powers, it would undoubtedly arouse the royal family's suspicions.

Fortunately, the Gu Family Manor was headed by Gu Qingfeng, and strictly speaking, it was inseparable from the royal family.

With this arrangement, even though many court officials were from the Gu Family Manor, there was no need to worry about any hidden dangers.

On the contrary, having one's own people in these positions was a source of reassurance.

As Gu Peng managed the Gu Family Manor with impeccable order, Gu Qingfeng suddenly spoke up.

"Gu Peng, if I were to let you take over as the Manor Master of the Gu Family Manor, would you be willing?"

Upon hearing these words, Gu Peng's expression froze, and he quickly changed his demeanor, bowing his head in a flustered response.

"My abilities are limited, and I am not capable of managing the Gu Family Manor. Moreover, my only wish is to stay by your side, Manor Master!"

These words from Gu Peng were not false.

His current status was entirely dependent on Gu Qingfeng's favor.

Therefore, Gu Peng naturally wished to stay by Gu Qingfeng's side, serving him devotedly.

Furthermore, there was another issue at hand.

The Gu Family Manor was currently in a delicate position. If it were under Gu Qingfeng's control, there would be no problems.

However, if it were to fall into the hands of others, that would be a different story.

Seeing Gu Peng's sincere and fearful expression, Gu Qingfeng shook his head and smiled.

"There's no need to be so hesitant. Alright, you may leave first, and while you're at it, ask Shengxing and Shengan to come see me."

"Yes!"

Gu Peng immediately bowed and accepted the order.

Half an hour later, Gu Shengxing and Gu Shengan arrived together.

Among them, Gu Shengxing wore a long blue robe, and his aura was much more restrained and gentle than before. His entire being exuded a subtle and mysterious fluctuation, giving off a sense of inexplicable peace.

As for Gu Shengan, he now emanated an aura of iron and blood, indicating that he had engaged in numerous battles over the years.

Nevertheless, when the two of them saw Gu Qingfeng, they immediately bowed respectfully.

"We pay our respects to Your Highness!"

"You've arrived... Please take a seat."

Gu Qingfeng spoke in a calm manner.

Upon hearing his words, the two of them dared not say more and quickly found a place to sit down.

After that, Gu Qingfeng's gaze lingered on the two of them for a moment before finally settling on Gu Shengxing.

"Shengxing, your aura is quite extraordinary. It seems you've found the path you wish to follow."

Even without the Attribute Panel, Gu Qingfeng could tell at a glance that Gu Shengxing was different.

Within his physical body, there was a weak yet mysterious energy, which was distinct from the vital energy of martial cultivators. This energy was likely the legendary Vast Upright Energy.

To be honest, this was the first time Gu Qingfeng had seen such power.

Hearing Gu Qingfeng's words, Gu Shengxing replied truthfully.

"I humbly report to Your Highness that I was fortunate enough to attain enlightenment and cultivate the Vast Upright Energy. I have barely found the path I wish to follow!"

"Entering the path of cultivation through martial arts is indeed impressive. However, as far as I know, the path of Vast Upright Energy does not exist in the current cultivation world.

If you choose to follow this path, it will undoubtedly be challenging!"

Gu Qingfeng offered a reminder.

The fact that no one cultivates Vast Upright Energy means that Gu Shengxing will have to explore every step of the way on his own.

Without guidance from predecessors, he can only forge his own path.

Such an approach is a true test of a cultivator's understanding and opportunities.

Even the slightest misstep could result in being stuck at a certain level for a lifetime, never making any further progress.

Gu Shengxing replied, "Your Highness, I once entered a primordial labyrinth and learned that in that era, Confucianism flourished. From there, I found a heritage related to Confucianism."

"I see..."

Gu Qingfeng's expression became clear.

Then, he glanced at the Attribute Panel and quickly found the relevant records.

It was evident that Gu Qingfeng had been overwhelmed with information earlier, causing him to overlook some details.

After that, Gu Shengxing spoke more about Confucianism, and Gu Qingfeng listened silently.

Confucianism, in essence, involves studying the classics, educating the populace, comprehending the Dao of Heaven and Earth, and cultivating the Vast Upright Energy within oneself.

The difference lies in the focus.

While other cultivators focus on tempering their vital energy, Confucianism cultivators emphasize cultivating the Vast Upright Energy.

However, strictly speaking, both paths have their similarities, just with different areas of emphasis.

After all, the Three Thousand Great Ways lead to the same destination.

Ultimately, both paths converge.

At the Spirit Transformation Realm, cultivators transform their vital energy, while Confucianism cultivators cultivate the Literary Heart.

In the Daoist Palace Realm, cultivators cultivate their Daoist Palaces and their Primordial Spirits. Similarly, Confucian cultivators also cultivate their Primordial Spirits, but they refer to it as the Literary Palace.

The difference lies in the cultivation methods. Daoist cultivators use Vital Energy and True Intent to cultivate their Daoist Palaces, while Confucian cultivators rely on Vast Upright Energy and their understanding of the Great Dao to cultivate their Literary Palaces.

When comparing the two, it is difficult to determine which is stronger or weaker.

On the other side, Gu Sheng'an listened intently to the other party's words, gaining a deeper understanding of Confucian cultivation.

As Gu Shengxing finished speaking, Gu Qingfeng nodded in agreement.

"The profundity of the Confucian Way is indeed extraordinary."

"Since you have obtained the ancient Confucian cultivation legacy and have condensed your Literary Heart, cultivating the Literary Palace, you might become the first Confucian Sage after the Primordial Era!"

From Gu Shengxing's words, Gu Qingfeng understood that Confucian cultivation originated in ancient times and was considered an ancient cultivation method.

However, during the Primordial Calamity, many legacies were lost, and the Confucian cultivation method was buried in the dust of history.

The Confucian cultivation legacy that Gu Shengxing obtained was related to the Dynasty of the Supreme One.

To be precise, the ancient secret realm was left behind by the Dynasty of the Supreme One.

Upon hearing this, Gu Qingfeng couldn't help but wonder how much the Dynasty of the Supreme One had left behind.

But recalling the Primordial Era, when the Dynasty of the Supreme One dominated the Primeval Wastes, Gu Qingfeng's heart quickly calmed.

Given the immense power of the Dynasty of the Supreme One, it was not surprising that they had left behind numerous legacies in the Primeval Wastes.

After that, Gu Qingfeng looked at the two of them and slowly said, "The reason I called you two here today is that I want you to take over the position of Manor Master of the Gu Family Manor!"

"The position of Manor Master?"

Both of them had a change in expression.

Gu Sheng'an quickly asked, "Is His Highness planning to leave?"

"Not leaving," Gu Qingfeng shook his head.

"It's just that the Gu family's bloodline is growing stronger, so I plan to separate the Gu Family Manor and use it specifically to nurture other disciples. As for the Gu family bloodline, they will all be brought back into the Gu family!"

"Moreover, in recent years, I have spent most of my time in seclusion, rarely involving myself in the affairs of the Manor.

Therefore, I intend to let you take over the Gu Family Manor."

After he finished speaking, both of them visibly relaxed.

Then, Gu Sheng'an quickly excused himself.

"Although I am the Chief of the Enforcers' Hall, I excel in killing but am not skilled in management. So, in my opinion, it's better to let my second brother take over!"

It was clear to anyone with eyes that the position of Manor Master of the Gu Family Manor was not ordinary, and whoever held this position would have great advantages in the future.

To put it bluntly, if Gu Yang were to abdicate one day, whoever among these royal princes could take over the Gu Family Manor would have a better chance of ascending to the throne.

Gu Sheng'an was well aware of this.

Even so, he refused without hesitation.

In Gu Sheng'an's opinion, the throne was not that appealing.

On the contrary, leading troops into battle and fighting for life and death—that was the life Gu Sheng'an truly desired.

Years of combat and life-and-death struggles had made him fully understand what he wanted, so he declined without hesitation.

Before Gu Shengxing could say anything, he noticed Gu Qingfeng's gaze fall upon him.

Then, he couldn't help but let out a bitter laugh.

"If His Highness has given the order, I, as the grandson, shall obey!"

"Good, then from this day forward, you shall be the Manor Master of the Gu Family Manor!"

"Yes, Your Highness!"

Gu Shengxing took a deep breath and accepted the order with a fist to his chest.

He didn't have much interest in the position of Manor Master of the Gu Family Manor.

However, Gu Shengxing also understood that aside from himself, no one else was suitable to hold this position.

Originally, Gu Sheng'an could have been a good choice.

But he had refused.

Therefore, this position could only be given to him.

After all, the influence of the Gu Family Manor was intricate and even extended to the imperial court. If someone else were to take over, it would undoubtedly cause many complications.

As a descendant of Gu Yang and a royal prince, Gu Shengxing had no problem taking over the Gu Family Manor.

"I will announce the change in the Manor Master position tomorrow and then hold the succession ceremony!"

"After all, our Gu Family Manor is no ordinary third-rate power. For such a significant change as the appointment of a new Manor Master, we must maintain a proper image."

Gu Qingfeng smiled faintly.

After handing over the position of Manor Master of the Gu Family Manor to Gu Shengxing, he felt a sense of relief.

As Gu Qingfeng had mentioned earlier, although he was the Manor Master, he rarely involved himself in the Manor's affairs.

Rather than sitting idly as the Manor Master, it was better to pass the position on to someone else.

Coincidentally, Gu Shengxing was a fifth-tier cultivator in the Daoist Palace Realm and the foremost Confucian cultivator. With his qualifications, he was an even better choice than Gu Sheng'an.

Upon hearing this, Gu Shengxing clasped his hands respectfully, "I will follow your every command, Your Highness!"

(End of Chapter)

Chapter end