Has the Sickly Crown Prince Ascended the Throne Today?

After Crown Prince Gu Zhaolan died young, he became a ghost, drifting through the imperial court, the capital, and the countryside. His mother, consumed by grief over her lost son, died with sorrow in her heart. His wise and mighty father grew cold and murderous after his premature death. The founding heroes who had once helped his father conquer the realm were executed, imprisoned, or exiled. His once-lovable, mischievous younger brothers fought among themselves for the throne. The civil officials split into factions, and the court was consumed by infighting. The north was restless, with wars breaking out year after year. The treasury was empty. Then, after days of torrential summer and autumn rain, violent storms struck. The Yellow River burst its banks, flooding more than ten cities and destroying fields, houses, and homes. Tens of thousands of people were swallowed by the waters. Rebellions erupted everywhere, flames of war spread, and the realm was torn apart.

After witnessing the dynasty rise and fall, and after several hundred more years had passed, Chinese civilization shone brilliantly. Its history was adorned with brilliant gems of science, literature, and medicine.

Gu Zhaolan, who had witnessed that splendid civilization, took a deep breath. "Father, wake up! They say wealth never lasts beyond three generations, but our family didn't even make it through two!"

It was honestly a little embarrassing to admit.

Gu Zhaolan returned to the Great Xia Dynasty. He was fifteen that year, with six years left before his untimely death. When he opened his eyes, he was bound to the Wise Ruler System, giving him a chance to set things right.

Later, the brilliant but frail Crown Prince took his whole family along as he healed his mother, boldly remonstrated with his father, rooted out factional infighting, pacified the north, tamed the Yellow River and developed water conservancy, and compiled fish-scale registers to replenish the treasury. Great Xia became peaceful and prosperous, realizing the dream of a golden age. The only concern shared by the court officials and common people was: How is His Highness the Crown Prince feeling today?

Gu Zhaolan spat out a mouthful of blood and smiled. "I'm fine. Still alive."

Theme: Do your best, and light will find its way onto the road ahead.