These people had committed crimes that would have warranted the execution of their entire families, yet they had managed to escape unscathed thanks to the protection of their fathers.

Therefore, Jiang Chen was ready to settle accounts with them after the autumn harvest. Since he had previously indulged them, allowing them to commit such heinous mistakes, it was now time for them to pay the price for their errors.

"Whatever methods you use next, let them have a good taste of it. Since we've reached this point, there's no need to show them any mercy."

Jiang Chen coldly smiled as he looked at those arrogant and domineering纨绔子弟 (children of privilege) before leaving.

The heads of the various great families were anxiously searching for ways to bail out their children.

They hadn't expected that those who had initially offered to help them were now pretending not to hear them at all.

"These guys, we gave them so much help back then, and now they treat us like this?"

"The biggest fear is that Jiang Chen is supporting everything behind the scenes. If Jiang Chen decides to take action, we really won't have any way to resist."

They felt annoyed when they thought of the things Jiang Chen had told them earlier.

After all, Jiang Chen's plan was practically written all over his face.

"Are we really just going to let Jiang Chen do as he pleases? If he really acts according to his plan, I suspect he'll betray us directly."

Although the conditions Jiang Chen proposed seemed very tempting, there was no such thing as a free lunch.

But if they went against Jiang Chen, their children who had been arrested might not survive.

This dilemma left them all hesitant.

Just as they were hesitating, someone rushed into the palace without looking back.

"Your Majesty, I hope you can give us a reasonable explanation for this matter. If you make us all feel disheartened, no one will have a good time."

Jiang Chen smiled indifferently at this blatant threat. Immediately, the guards standing around the hall drew their long sabers and pinned the man to the ground.

"Since when did you all have the audacity to speak to me like this? It seems the lessons I gave you before weren't profound enough."

Seeing that Jiang Chen seemed determined to take action against them, he couldn't help but feel shocked, but then his eyes narrowed.

"Your Majesty should be aware that the front lines are in urgent need of support. If there is internal strife at this moment, I fear the Xiongnu will be able to drive straight in. Moreover, my family's location happens to be right at that crucial point."

Jiang Chen did not express his opinion regarding such a blatant threat. Just when he thought he had successfully threatened Jiang Chen, someone brought his son up.

"I originally thought your son could commit such outrageous acts because you didn't educate him properly, but now it seems that all of this is a problem within your own family."

"Truly, like father, like son. Since you've made such a decision, then don't blame me for being impolite."

Just as he was still trying to figure out what Jiang Chen meant, the guards who had been waiting nearby strode over.

Before he could react, he was directly pinned to the ground.

"At this critical moment of crisis, there are still people plotting rebellion. Then don't blame me for being merciless."

"Men, drag this traitor out and behead him. Display his head in the streets as a warning."

Jiang Chen's sudden decision stunned everyone.

"Father, you must save me!"

Before they could struggle, they were dragged out of the palace.

Hearing the sounds outside, many people subconsciously shivered.

Only now did they realize that Jiang Chen was no longer the Jiang Chen he used to be.

"Your Majesty, spare us! We were just temporarily confused and said some angry words."

Although they begged for mercy, it was to no avail.

When this scene was witnessed by others in the capital, many were shocked and couldn't believe what they were seeing.

"Is His Majesty really going to take action against those people?"

After learning of this situation, they were still somewhat unwilling to believe what their eyes had seen.

While everyone was still trying to accept what they had just witnessed, Jiang Chen's proclamation had already been posted.

Upon learning that the front lines were in dire need, many people widened their eyes. Now they could all understand the severity of the current situation.

After realizing how dangerous this matter was, many chose to join the army. Moreover, Jiang Chen's determination had made them realize that things seemed to be changing.

Seeing the situation getting worse and worse, many members of the great families began to silently consider the possibility of joining Jiang Chen's side.

After all, the example of the previous incidents was still before them. If they didn't make some changes, they would likely repeat the same mistakes.

Just as everyone was feeling anxious, Jiang Chen's imperial edict was delivered to each of their homes.

Jiang Chen was no longer as secretive as before. The people couldn't help but curse him, but no one dared to refuse.

After all, the bloody lesson was still lying before them, and no one dared to provoke Jiang Chen at this time.

"Remember, no matter what arrangements are made, you are to put in minimal effort. Do not charge ahead without authorization. Since he is forcing us to take action with such means, then we will delay for a while."

"I want to see what benefits he can ultimately gain by forcing us like this."

Just as they thought their decision was quite brilliant, Jiang Chen had already made many corresponding arrangements.

"Disperse all the children of the great families and assign them to every team. Do not allow members of the same family to gather together."

"Also, record the names of each of them. If anyone dares to retreat, then let the lives of their family members pay the price."

As one decree after another was issued, these guys who had previously been beaming with smiles were now dumbfounded.

This situation could be said to have pushed them all to the limit.

Now, if anyone wanted to retreat, the consequences were beyond what they could bear.

"Jiang Chen is trying to uproot us completely."