Ryukyu.

Currently holding the reins of power in Ryukyu is Li Chengqian’s eldest son, Li Cong.

Perhaps due to his own experiences, Li Chengqian’s method of raising this son is entirely different, almost contrary to Li Shimin—he spares no effort to shield Li Cong from all storms.

Of course, under such protection, Li Cong’s temperament is indeed somewhat gentler compared to his father, Li Chengqian.

However, this gentleness can also be described as benevolence, making him a benevolent ruler.

Especially with the devoted assistance of the Gu Clan, within Ryukyu, the ruling foundations of the Li and Gu families remain as solid as a rock, unshakable by anyone.

It is worth mentioning that Li Cong has not yet assumed the title of Emperor.

His deep affection for his father, Li Chengqian, naturally prevents him from going against the direction set by his father.

Moreover, the Gu Clan also holds the same unwavering position on this matter.

At this moment, within the palaces of Ryukyu.

This palace was built in imitation of the forbidden palace in Chang’an, though in comparison, its scale and atmosphere are somewhat restricted and simplistic.

"Brother, this is an urgent order from uncle."

Gu Lang respectfully presented Gu Jing’s handwritten letter to Gu Ming, his eyes inadvertently filled with curiosity, quietly observing the surroundings of the palace.

Although he had heard many descriptions of this place, for the younger generation of the Gu Clan, the foundation in Ryukyu still felt fresh everywhere.

"Targeting the sea bandits?"

Gu Ming took the letter and solemnly read it word by word.

As a recently dispatched member of the Gu Clan to Ryukyu, his loyalty to the family is beyond doubt.

After a moment of contemplation, Gu Ming nodded slightly: "I understand this matter, and will certainly mobilize troops to coordinate with uncle."

Having said that, he inquired about the matters in Kyushu.

Gu Lang had no hesitation, detailing everything about Kyushu.

Gu Ming’s expression grew increasingly serious as he listened.

In the end, even he felt a chilling fear in his heart.

He could hardly imagine.

Just how many people Gu Jing intends to kill this time.

It’s feared that the entire Mingzhou State, Donglai, and other places will see heads rolling, and at least a layer of skin will be peeled off the local forces involved!

And Gu Lang’s only comment was a single sentence.

"These people are asking for it!"

....

Chang’an.

This place remains the core foundation of the Guanlong group.

Despite the Great Tang having moved the capital to Luoyang, the implications run deep, and the lingering influence of Chang’an still exists. It remains a crucial part of the Great Tang’s political landscape.

At this moment in Chang’an city, the streets are bustling and lively, with a constant flow of people.

Although the Great Tang’s commerce is also impacted by maritime trade, this wave seems unable to shake the foundation of a major city like Chang’an. On the faces of ordinary people, a smile of peaceful living can still be seen.

However, for those truly "big figures," clouds of darkness loom overhead, inescapable.

The barrage of news is simply overwhelming.

This leaves them with no choice but to feel fear.

The once-magnificent Guanlong group is no more. Following the passing of Chu Suiliang and Zhangsun Wuji, combined with Emperor Gaozong Li Zhi’s deliberate alienation during his reign, this series of blows has severely weakened the Guanlong group.

Returning to former glory?

That is already an unattainable luxury.

Pingkang Square.

Outside, the cold wind howls, but inside, the warmth of the stove is intoxicating, though the atmosphere is colder than the winter outside.

Several old men dressed in luxurious clothes and with somber expressions sit around, these are now the last core members of the Guanlong group.

Thick sandalwood incense fills the air, unable to suppress the unease and panic.

"The Wu family in Mingzhou State is finished, and the lines in Donglai and Panyu have mostly been cut." A white-haired old man broke the silence with a dry voice, "Gu Jing’s knife is faster and more ruthless than we imagined."

"This time, he is determined to scrape the bone to heal the poison, even the Empress Dowager..."

He didn’t continue, but everyone present understood his unfinished words—even the Empress Dowager personally handed over Wu Sansi, what hope do they have left?

"We can’t wait any longer!" Another slightly plump, sharp-eyed old man slapped the table, causing the teacups to jingle, "The Imperial Censorate’s dogs are patrolling outside!"

"The news gets worse by the day!"

"If we keep delaying, this fire will burn to Chang’an sooner or later, and onto our heads!"

"Don’t forget Gu Jing’s battle with Emperor Taizong in Liaodong years ago, although the world knows the slaughter was due to the Emperor Taizong’s anger, who among us doesn’t know the idea was entirely Gu Jing’s?"

"Then what do you suggest?" The elder who had been sitting in the chief position, eyes closed and playing with a blood jade ring, slowly spoke with undeniable authority.

He is now the nominal backbone of the Guanlong group, the Duke of the Longxi Li Clan.

During the Wude era.

Li Yuan once claimed to be from the Longxi Li Clan, although later analysis raised doubts about this, the status of the Longxi Li Clan is undeniable today.

"Cut off the tail to survive!" The slightly plump old man said decisively, "Gu Jing wants heads to roll as a warning to others, to quell public anger, and to intimidate all around!"

"We will give him a few heads!"

"But they must carry enough weight, and be just right!"

"Otherwise, he’ll look down on our Guanlong aristocracy."

"Oh?" The Duke slightly lifted his eyelids. "Let’s hear it."

"Cui Shi!" The slightly plump old man uttered the first name, "The Magistrate of Chang’an."

"These years, with the import and export of maritime trade goods in Chang’an, which checkpoint inspection or warehouse transfer is free from him?"

"His hands are dirty, and the bribes he took are enough to warrant him being beheaded ten times over!"