Chapter 264: Chapter 264: Adoption
Gu Li glanced at the third generation of the Gu Family, "Your two grandsons are not yet included in the family genealogy. Are you planning to let them establish their own families in the future?"
Gu Baijiang dared not entertain such thoughts. If his grandsons were to establish their own families, it would have nothing to do with him, which would be akin to cutting off the ancestral line—a fate worse than that of his unfortunate little uncle.
"Uncle’s mention of this today reminds me that this matter requires your effort, Uncle, to ensure the young ones have a foundation."
Gu Li looked at him mockingly, "Now you think of finding a foundation for the children? I thought you didn’t care."
"It was my foolishness at the time. I now repent daily. I hope Uncle will grant me this chance."
Gu Baijiang addressed the cousins who followed him, sincerely, "Regarding the promises I made earlier, I will definitely fulfill them. As you can see, Lord Ming is now with us. It’s just a matter of time before our Gu Family soars to great heights, and I will not mistreat the clan members."
Gu Li replied, "Hearing you say this puts me at ease. I’m willing to trust you once more."
However, about your little uncle..."
At this moment, Gu Baijiang reluctantly turned to Gu Kaiyuan, "Uncle, what do you think of my third son?"
Gu Li shook his head internally, thinking how blind-hearted Gu Baijiang was, though it made it easier for Gu Li’s plans. It repaid Gu Kaiyuan’s kindness but left Gu Li hesitating, "You intend to transfer Gu Kaiyuan to your uncle?"
"After much consideration, I’ve decided," Gu Baijiang thought for a moment before continuing, "You’ve seen the misunderstandings between me and the third child. However, this child is stubborn and bears a grudge against us.
I know he dislikes this entire family, so it’s unnecessary to force everyone together. I have raised him for many years. By transferring him to my uncle, he can fulfill filial duties for me, repaying years of upbringing."
Gu Kaiyuan relaxed at heart, unexpectedly finding things going smoothly.
Had this been proposed earlier, it would not have proceeded so smoothly—perhaps the Gu Baijiang family would’ve extorted something.
The timing was just right, suggesting new information had arrived from the capital, prompting this family to eagerly shake him off.
Yet Gu Baijiang couldn’t finish, "Indeed, in my father’s eyes, I am the least accomplished and least important son."
Although others were more suitable, why am I, of all people, being transferred?"
Gu Li and his three sons were amused, nearing their desired outcome, surprised at his behavior, worried he might ruin things.
Gu Kaiyuan promptly addressed Gu Kaiping and others, "Elder brother, second brother, say something. Where’s your so-called brotherly love and respect?"
"Gu Kaiyuan, now you fear," Gu Kaichen’s tone revealed joy and schadenfreude, solving a sibling issue, reducing inheritance competition, "You were strong before, relying on the Bai Family. This time father fulfills your wish, regret is too late."
Gu Kaiping replied, "Kai Yuan, father manages our family affairs. Don’t worry, even if you are transferred, we are blood brothers, connected by lineage. In difficult times, come to me; I will help where I can."
Gu Kaiping needed a good reputation, having connections in official circles, easily crafting pleasant words, while considering Gu Kaiyuan’s ongoing role in safeguarding ancestral lands.
Gu Li feared Gu Kaiyuan might ruin the act, causing Gu Baijiang to backtrack, missing the chance, quickly taking out the genealogy, "Since things are mentioned, let’s proceed without delay. Previously, Gu Kaiyuan and his wife were not in the genealogy, avoiding rewriting."
Finding Gu Baijiang’s lineage, Gu Li again looked at Gu Baijiang, "Are you sure about the decision? Writing is without regrets."
This prompted Gu Baihe to step forward, frowning, "Father, do we need to write a transfer document?"
Gu Li slapped his forehead, "Such forgetfulness; almost overlooked this. You must have paper and pen, handle it yourself."
Gu Baijiang remembered the matter earlier, refraining from mentioning it, hoping to avoid the commitment.
Left with no choice, he took paper and pen, personally transferring his son.
Seeing the family, he felt no reluctance, even a hint of delight, prompting Gu Li to internally shake his head, pondering whether it was Gu Kaiyuan’s failure or the Gu Family’s absence of familial affection.
After drafting a few copies, Gu Kaiyuan felt some inner turmoil but remained calm, even inviting Liu Pingkang and Tian Zhuang for witnessing.
Bai Suihe was surprised that a mere meal led Gu Kaiyuan to remove the burdensome obstacle.
Before leaving, Liu Pingkang, with sympathy, glanced at the Gu Family, observing how short-sighted they were, noting Gu Kaiyuan’s capability.
Yet feeling less inclined towards the Gu Family, preferring relations with Gu Kaiyuan.
Not to mention Gu Kaiyuan being Bai Family’s esteemed son-in-law, Liu Pingkang hoped for advantages from the Bai Family, ensuring proper arrangements.
"Brother Gu, I selected two locations for you; choose accordingly," Tian Zhuang glanced at the Gu Family members following Gu Kaiyuan, pragmatically suggesting plans, "Two villages emerged last year, comprised of capital exiles, and local conflicts are minimal.
There is also barren land, with some people divided there; if suitable, I will ensure arrangements."
Gu Kaiyuan glanced at Gu Li and others, "Granduncle, have you decided where to go?"
Gu Li and others were eager for such a prospect, previously pondering bribery for information, now seeing opportunity, unwilling to miss it.
"Let’s reside together, supporting one another," Gu Li quickly decided, "Where you go, we follow."
Gu Kaiyuan wryly smiled, "Granduncle, sticking with me?"
"Well, granduncle also assisted you. Allow me to rely on age this time."
Gu Kaiyuan hoped to rally the Gu Family members for bigger plans, merrily leading Tian Zhuang aside, slipping him a silver note, understanding the importance of bribing officials for enduring in the countryside.
"There’s another option; I find Tian Village promising," Tian Zhuang accepted the favor, no longer misleading, "This village is flat with streams..."
