As the banquet drew to a close, Gu Chengrui pulled out a thousand taels of silver and presented it to Gu Chengen. "I believe the ancestral hall is overdue for renovations. Perhaps we can tackle that project next year.
"Any leftover funds could be used to renovate our clan's school and cultivate more promising talent."
"Hmm," Gu Chengen murmured, his gaze instinctively flitting towards the old patriarch upon hearing this suggestion.
The old patriarch responded with a smile and a nod. "If he says take it, then take it, Chengen. The ancestral hall could certainly use a refresh. It's a worthy cause."
"Yes, Father," Gu Chengen acknowledged, then turned back to Gu Chengrui. "On behalf of everyone, I thank you."
"I'm a member of the Gu Clan as well," Gu Chengrui replied. "It's simply my duty."
Witnessing this exchange, Mr. Gu and Second Uncle Gu each retrieved five hundred taels of silver and offered them to Gu Chengen.
