Chapter 316: Dong Zhuo's death, chaos in Chang'an
In the first year of Xingping, Emperor Liu Xie changed the reign title to Xingping, hoping that the Eastern Han Dynasty would rise from a new beginning.

In the first month of the year, Dong Zhuo accidentally caught a cold.

After several years of chaos in Chang'an, people's livelihood was in decline. Famous doctors had fled long ago, and Dong Yu and others did not trust the imperial doctors in the palace. Fearing that they might harm Dong Zhuo, they threatened several mediocre doctors from the folks to treat Dong Zhuo.

Unexpectedly, one of the quack doctor's family members was harmed by Dong Zhuo, and the medicine he used made Dong Zhuo's condition worse.

By the time Diao Chan discovered something was wrong, it was too late.

Dong Zhuo was seriously ill.

Dong Yu and others believed that Diao Chan was the one who murdered Dong Zhuo and wanted to cook her to death.

Dong Zhuo suddenly came to his senses and stopped everyone.

"After I die, Ren Hongchang (Diao Chan) will be my principal wife. You are not allowed to embarrass my son Dong Xu!"

Dong Zhuo knew that time was running out, so he quickly said, "Shuying (Dong Yu's courtesy name)."

"Brother is here." Dong Yu came to Dong Zhuo's bed with tears in his eyes.

Dong Zhuo stretched out his right hand tremblingly, and Dong Yu hurried forward to hold it.

"please."

Dong Yu swore: "I will treat my brother's son as my own son. If I break this oath, I will be punished by heaven and earth!"

Dong Zhuo said with a look of relief: "Your words are enough."

Then, fragments of past memories began to emerge before Dong Zhuo's eyes, as if urging him to leave.

"I remember when I was a kid, you were always bullied."

Dong Zhuo said with emotion: "Now it's time for Shuying to take charge of his own affairs."

Dong Yu nodded while sobbing, and stood up tactfully to make way for Diao Chan who was holding Dong Xu.

At this time, Diao Chan's face showed helplessness, hesitation, strength and complexity.

Dong Zhuo's eyes were a little dazed, and he couldn't see the person's face clearly. He stretched his right hand into the air and said, "Come closer, come closer..."

Diao Chan knelt down and put the three-year-old Dong Xu down.

Dong Zhuo finally saw the faces of the mother and son clearly, but his eyes never left Dong Xu's face, and he touched it with his right hand with difficulty.

Dong Xu was a strong and frail man, and could not bear Dong Zhuo's calloused palm, so he twisted and turned, and Diao Chan almost couldn't hold him down.

"I, as a father, will not be able to see Xu'er come of age."

Dong Zhuo's vision became increasingly blurry, as if Dong Xu in front of him was being wronged.

At this moment, Dong Zhuo knew that his end was near and he wanted to let out his last roar in his life.

"Oh!"

But Dong Zhuo did not get what he wanted before his death, but instead pinched his beloved son's face and hurt him.

“Wa ...

Dong Xu's loud crying just happened to attract the attention of Dong Yu and others.

"Brother!"

"Lord!"

A group of people stepped forward, but they were unable to see Dong Zhuo's appearance and could only watch from afar.

Diao Chan knelt properly aside, covering her face and sobbing.

Dong Yu felt mixed emotions, as he knew his brother Dong Zhuo's life very well. Although he was ruthless, he had also managed to turn the tide and stabilize the chaotic times.

At this moment, Dong Zhuo's death was not only a heavy blow to the Dong family, but also made the situation in the entire court unpredictable.

Dong Yu suppressed his grief and glanced around, seeing that everyone was either sad or shocked, each with their own thoughts, he felt the burden on his shoulders was heavier.

"Everyone, although my brother is gone, our Dong family cannot be without a leader for a day. Right now, it is a time of trouble, and we need to unite as one and overcome the difficulties together."

Although Dong Yu's voice was trembling, he was extremely firm. "Brother's will, we will definitely inherit it and protect this hard-earned foundation."

"Uncle is right."

After the Xiliang army was split up last time, all those gathered here were Dong Zhuo's relatives and direct descendants, but only Dong Yue could respond to Dong Yu.

As a member of Dong Zhuo's clan, Dong Yue's talents were higher than those of Dong Yu and Dong Huang, but due to their close relationship, he was always ranked below the two.

But Dong Yue was very smart and never fought for power.

But others don't think so.

Especially Dong Huang.

Before Dong Xu was born, Dong Zhuo's favorite people were him and his grandsons. Dong Zhuo even planned to train him as his future heir.

But everything changed after Dong Xu was born.

If we were to say who was most dissatisfied with Dong Yu, it would definitely be Dong Huang.

Jealousy can make a person look completely different. Dong Huang said, "My uncle (Dong Zhuo) has always been wise and intelligent, and no one in the family can compare to him. But what virtue and ability does my uncle have to lead the Dong family?
In terms of martial arts, I have been practicing martial arts since I was young and am not inferior to you; in terms of wisdom, I have also helped Zhongfu deal with many affairs and have rich experience.

Now, Zhongfu is actually planning to entrust the important task of the family to you. Wouldn't this chill the hearts of those of us who have truly devoted ourselves to the family? "

Dong Yu frowned slightly when he heard this. He was well aware of Dong Huang's resentment and resentment, but he also understood the complexity of it.

He spoke slowly, his voice steady and magnetic: "Huang'er, you need to know that things in this world cannot be decided by one's own strength alone.

The elder brother's considerations certainly have their reasons. Although Dong Yu is young, he has some characteristics that we have not noticed.
Or it could be the perseverance or the unique insight into the family's future. Furthermore, family inheritance is not only the continuation of blood, but also the transmission of wisdom and responsibility.

As members of the Dong Zhuo clan, you and I should put the interests of the family first, rather than personal gains and losses. "

Dong Huang's expression eased slightly when he heard this, but there was still a gleam of unwillingness in his eyes. He was silent for a moment, as if he was digesting Dong Yu's words.

Then he chuckled and said, "Uncle is right. I am too narrow-minded. Please help me stabilize the situation."

Dong Yu's face was filled with anger, and he said directly, "Stabilize the situation? Do you think that you can cover up your recent bad behavior with just a few apologies and requests?"
Our Dong family has always been known for its loyalty, bravery and wisdom. We are not a tool for you to use to satisfy your personal desires! Your mistake today was not a momentary impulse, but a failure to take the family honor and responsibility to heart. "

“I know you feel resentful and think that your talent has not been recognized as it should be, but a truly strong person never complains about the environment, but actively changes himself and proves his worth through actions.

If you really want to contribute to the family, you should abandon those thoughts of quick success and instant benefits from now on, and instead focus on improving yourself, and use your wisdom and ability to win wider support and respect for the family. "

"Remember, the future of the Dong Zhuo family is not built by selfishness or political schemes, but requires each generation of us to build it together with noble character, outstanding talents and selfless dedication. You, as a member of the family, should do the same."

"What a selfless dedication!" Dong Huang stopped pretending and said, "Uncle, why don't you set an example for your nephew?
So as not to disappoint everyone, okay? "

Niu Fu and others lowered their heads instantly and did not want to get involved in the internal fight between the two.

"Dong Huang!" Dong Yu failed to do what Dong Zhuo expected and shouted angrily, "This is my brother's last wish! Are you going to rebel?" "Haha." Dong Huang laughed, "Hahaha!"

"rebel?"

"That's the funniest joke I've ever heard!"

Dong Huang looked at Dong Yu arrogantly and said, "Uncle, have you forgotten how we became so prosperous?"

"How dare you!" Dong Yu was completely furious, and even drew his sword and shouted, "I will clear the door today!"

Dong Huang drew his sword without hesitation. He had never been afraid of a fight.

Seeing that a bloody incident was about to happen in front of Dong Zhuo's coffin, a female voice firmly and forcefully stopped them: "Do you want to make Dong Gong's soul restless even after death?"

Dong Yu stood there in a daze. Dong Huang snorted angrily when he heard what he said, and left without saying anything.

Several generals who were close to Dong Huang and wanted to gain some credit by following him looked at each other and followed Dong Huang away.

"Rebel!"

Dong Huang's father was the son of Dong Zhuo, the eldest brother of Dong Zhuo and Dong Yu. Dong Zhuo died early, and Dong Huang was raised by Dong Zhuo and Dong Yu.

It was not an exaggeration to call Dong Yu a rebellious son.

"Generals."

Dong Yu clasped his fists and said, "Today's matter is really an unfinished family matter. I have disturbed you all. I apologize in advance. Although Lord Dong Zhuo has passed away, his legacy and the future of the Xiliang Army still need us to shoulder together.

When Dong Zhuo was alive, he often said, 'Brothers united, their strength is invincible'. I hope you can remember our old friendship and not let Dong Zhuo's fame be tarnished by our internal disputes."

After saying this, Dong Yu swept his eyes across everyone present. His eyes were both majestic and earnest, as if he was looking for someone who was willing to continue to follow him and jointly protect the Xiliang foundation.

After a moment's silence, several generals who had been hesitant slowly stepped forward to show their support.

"General Dong is right. Although Dong Zhuo is gone, his spirit lives on. We are willing to continue to work for the well-being of Xiliang and the people of the world under the leadership of General Dong." A middle-aged general said in a deep voice. Although his voice was not loud, it revealed an unquestionable firmness.

Dong Yu nodded slightly, feeling a little relieved. He knew very well that the Xiliang Army was in a precarious situation at the moment, with powerful enemies outside and constant disputes inside. Only by uniting as one can they overcome the difficulties.

"Thank you all for your trust, General. Yu Ding has lived up to your expectations. Next, we need to stabilize the situation as soon as possible, handle the funeral of Lord Dong Zhuo, and strengthen defenses to prevent any accidents.

As for Dong Huang, he is young and impulsive, so I will talk to him in person and make him understand that the overall situation is more important."

Dong Yu's words revealed an unquestionable confidence, which made the generals present nod in agreement. As for what they thought in private, that was another matter.

Afterwards, the generals went down to reorganize and pacify the troops to prevent any new changes from occurring.

Unexpectedly, the next day Dong Yue came to Niu Fu's camp to discuss military affairs, but was framed by Niu Fu's fortune teller and was killed.

Later, the camp was in shock. Niu Fu thought that the entire camp had rebelled, so he fled with Zhihu Chi'er and others. On the way, he was killed by Chi'er and others, and his head was sent to Chang'an.

Now, the real turmoil began.

Dong Huang thought that all this was the work of Dong Yu, who was planning to attack his own family, so he brazenly launched a mutiny and caught Dong Yu off guard.

After all, Niu Fu is Dong Zhuo's son-in-law, and Dong Yue is the most capable fighter among the Dong family besides Dong Zhuo.
How could Dong Huang not be like a frightened bird after the two men died one after another?
The battle lasted for two days and two nights. More than five thousand soldiers of the Xiliang Army died in the civil strife. The army, which was originally small, was reduced to less than ten thousand people in the end.

Seeing that the situation was not good, the generals scattered like birds and beasts.

Li Jue and Guo Si took advantage of the situation and annexed the elite troops of the Western Liang Army.

At this time, Dong Yu and Dong Huang realized that something was wrong, but it was too late.

Emperor Liu Xie saw the opportunity and issued an edict to exterminate Dong Zhuo's three clans.

Dong Zhuo's former generals such as Li Jue and Guo Si were unwilling to take action against the Dong family.

This task fell on the head of Liu Yan, who had his own army and was very powerful. This old wily man did not put in any effort and only drove away the Dong family and occupied and swallowed up Dong Zhuo's inheritance.

Liu Yan's strength increased greatly, which in turn caused dissatisfaction among Li Jue and others.

They just didn't want to take action against Dong Zhuo's family, but they couldn't take action against Liu Yan.

Money is a powerful force, and even if Dong Zhuo spent more of his money, there would still be a small portion of money and grain left.

That would be looting the entire Luoyang’s wealth!

Even if it is at least half, it is still very considerable.

Liu Yan has the temperament of a Pixiu. How could he possibly vomit out the food that has fallen into his stomach?
Li Jue was furious and openly questioned Liu Yan at the court meeting: "May I ask you, Grand Commandant, as a relative of the Han Dynasty, you should uphold justice and support the country together. Why do you monopolize Dong Zhuo's legacy and disregard the righteousness of the world?
Although Dong Zhuo is dead, his evil deeds cannot be erased just because of his death. His wealth should be confiscated into the public treasury to help the people, not just your private property!"

After saying this, he looked around and saw that many generals showed expressions of approval, which made him feel more confident.

He continued his impassioned speech: "Although we are not saints, we also know that 'wealth and honor gained through unjust means nothing to us'. Dong Zhuo's wealth is the blood and sweat of the people. If we allow it to fall into the hands of one person, how can we convince the people? How can we keep the world at peace?"

Liu Yan heard this without changing his expression, but he was secretly calculating in his mind.

He slowly stood up and responded with a noble and upright manner: "Li Cheqi's words make sense, but you all know that if Dong Zhuo's wealth is not supervised by anyone, chaos may arise again.

This Grand Marshal is keeping it temporarily to prevent it from falling into the hands of bandits. Once the court is stabilized, it will be handed over in full to help the country recover.

Furthermore, my action is also to stabilize the situation in Chang'an. If I don't take it, others will inevitably covet it. If the war breaks out again, who will be blamed for the people's crime?"

As soon as these words came out, the court immediately started to discuss. Some people agreed with Liu Yan's careful consideration, while others questioned his impure motives.

Li Jue sneered, obviously not buying Liu Yan's explanation: "The general is eloquent, but the people of the world have their own opinions. If you really consider the overall situation, why don't you immediately hand over the property to the court and let the emperor decide? This will calm the anger of the people and show your loyalty."

Liu Yan smiled slightly, with a sly look in his eyes: "Li Cheqi's words make sense, but this matter is of great importance and cannot be resolved overnight. I am willing to discuss the major issues with you and find a proper plan that can both protect the country's peace and demonstrate fairness and justice. As for the present, please be patient and don't be impatient, so as not to hurt the harmony."

However, no matter how they discussed it, Liu Yan refused to spit out a grain of rice.

Li Jue was unable to argue, so he immediately joined forces with Guo Si and other generals to launch a war against Liu Yan and directly started to rob him.

Thus, a bigger war began.

...

When Dong Gang died, Li Ru realized that civil strife was about to break out, so he took the opportunity to escape with Diao Chan and her son, as well as Dong Zhuo's entire family.

It can be considered that he is worthy of Dong Zhuo's cultivation of him over the years.

Originally, Li Ru wanted to take his people to escape to Nanyang County in Jingzhou, but unexpectedly Diao Chan pointed out another way for him.

"Yanzhou?!"

Li Ru looked at Diao Chan in disbelief. He didn't expect that the rumors were true. Diao Chan really had an affair with Lu Bu!
Do not!
Li Ru looked at Dong Xu with a look of disbelief on his face, and thought to himself, "Could this be Lu Bu's son?"

When he thought of this, Li Ru couldn't help but want to draw his sword and kill the mother and son.

But what if he killed the wrong person?
In the end, Li did not take action and led the remaining forces of Dong Zhuo south.

After all, Dong Zhuo had a living grandson, so he could be considered to have left behind a descendant.

(End of this chapter)