Chapter 1018: Chapter 1018 The Grand Ending
Translator: Dragon Boat Translation Editor: Dragon Boat Translation
A year flew by. Chenchen successfully built a functional transformer, significantly boosting the generator’s efficiency. Electricity became a reality, with the entire capital connected to the power grid.
Meanwhile, Third Fatty dedicated himself to constructing various agricultural machines. The impact was immediate; the following autumn harvest was completed in a quarter of the time it typically took.
Next on Chenchen’s agenda was finding lithium mines, crucial for developing batteries. It wasn’t until three years after their arrival that he finally created a working prototype.
Third Fatty, on the other hand, focused on creating small household appliances, making life easier for the residents.
Guoguo, in addition to producing some oral Western medicines, developed infusion equipment and introduced several skilled surgeons, further advancing medical care.
During this period, the power struggle between the three adult princes intensified. Fortunately, the Emperor intervened decisively, dismissing several from the Third Prince’s faction and appointing the eldest prince as crown prince. The contributions of the Gu siblings also brought a temporary period of peace to the court.
The agreed-upon time for their departure arrived. After packing their belongings, the siblings went to bid farewell to the Emperor.
“Can’t you stay for a couple more years?” the Emperor pleaded. “Look at the incredible progress you’ve made possible in such a short time.”
“Uncle,” Guoguo replied, “the advancement of society and the future of the country rest not just on our shoulders, but on the continuous efforts of future generations. We’ve pa.s.sed on what we’ve learned, and it’s time to reunite with our parents.”
The Emperor hesitated. “Then promise to visit again in the future. By the way, when are you leaving? I’d like to hold a farewell banquet in your honor.”
“No need for that, Uncle,” Guoguo declined. “We don’t care much for grand banquets. We’d rather have a simple gathering with close friends.”
“Alright, but before you leave, remember to leave some spiritual tea for me. It’s good for my health.”
“Of course,” Guoguo agreed. “If you need more in the future, just ask Mother directly.”
On the third night, the Empress hosted a small gathering. This time, all the Emperor’s concubines and children were present. She also invited Zhou Huiming, Gu Chengye, Gu Chengsi, Gu Chengxi, and Gu Chenglin’s families.
When they left the palace the following night, Guoguo left two pounds of spiritual tea for the Emperor and some precious medicinal materials for Gu Wanning.
Early the next morning, the three siblings returned to Mother G.o.d Temple.
Gu Chengrui was amused to learn that Gu Chengsi had become the Minister of Officials.
Fifteen years pa.s.sed. Though the Emperor remained remarkably healthy, the eldest prince was no longer young and already well-versed in handling government affairs. The Emperor decided to abdicate.
After serving as a Grand Emperor for two years, he felt confident that the new emperor could handle his duties independently. He approached Gu Wanning and suggested, “Wanning, how about we go on a trip?”
“Are you serious?” she asked, her eyes sparkling with excitement.
“Absolutely,” he confirmed. “I’ve worked hard all my life. It’s time to see the world a bit. While we’re at it, why don’t you contact Zhou Ying and the others? We could all travel together.”
“I’d love to write to them,” Gu Wanning enthused. Confined to the capital her entire life, the prospect of a journey filled her with joy.
After sending the letters, the Emperor, Gu Wanning, their little granddaughter, and the eldest princess’s grandson left a note and quietly slipped out of the palace.
Upon reaching the Hongyun Restaurant in the south, Zhou Ying and Gu Chengrui disguised themselves with ordinary clothes and gray hair. A broad smile spread across their faces as they greeted them. “Sister, brother-in-law, long time no see!”
“Cousin, cousin-in-law, I finally get to meet you again!” Gu Wanning exclaimed, overcome with emotion. The Emperor simply smiled and nodded in response, recognizing their desire for anonymity.