Wang Zong’an knew that such matters couldn’t be decided in a day. Whenever a Noble Family acts, especially with an investment involving so many human and material resources, internal discussions are always needed. Thus, he was not in a hurry.

Shangguan Zhenhai, holding the projected benefits curve chart, said in slight amazement, "Young Clan Leader Zong’an and the Prince, are you leaving without attending the welcome banquet?"

"Everyone is quite busy, we’ll eat together when there’s time." Wang Zong’an stood up with a smile and bowed, "The Prince and I have quite a few families to visit."

Indeed, in this Upper Capital City, it wasn’t just the Shangguan Family...

"There’s one more question: if our Shangguan Family agrees to participate in this project, is it necessary to clearly demonstrate support for Prince Anjun?"

"Elder Zhenhai is overly concerned. This is just a cooperative development project. Whether you support Prince Anjun or Prince Kang, it won’t affect the follow-ups. To be honest, this project is too costly. Even the lineage of Prince Dexin, as well as Prince Kang, we’d like to bring them in—there’s strength in numbers, after all."

"Very well, if that’s the case, the cooperation seems promising."

As they spoke, Wang Zong’an and the Prince Anjun formally took their leave.

Afterward, they visited families one after another, earnestly and properly.

Indeed, they fulfilled all the boasts they made. They even actually went to the Prince Dexin and Prince Yoong’an’s mansions to persuade them to invest, although they were "politely shown out" quite soon.

But just from this point, it was evident that the combination of Prince Anjun and Wang Zong’an was seriously committed. As a result, it strengthened the resolve of those who paid attention.

...

Time flew by swiftly.

Another month passed.

The middle stretch of Anjiang, Jiaolong Island.

As the headquarters of the Jiaolong Gang, this island was perennially cloaked in mist and reflections of water, safeguarded by great formations making it easy to defend and hard to attack. The harbor of Jiaolong Island was also perpetually docked with numerous river boats, presenting an awe-inspiring sight from an aerial view.

The island boasted several peaks, with the summit of the highest peak flattened artificially to make way for a cluster of buildings where the members of the Jiaolong Gang resided.

Within this cluster, there was a grand hall of robust design and imposing architecture named the "Jiaolong Hall."

This Jiaolong Hall served as the place for discussions within the Jiaolong Gang, and it stood as the power center of the gang.

Inside the Jiaolong Hall.

On the wide main seat, Long Wuji, usually carefree and dashing, now had a livid expression. On the ground was a heap of torn letters.

His trusted aides, including Zhao Wuqing, stood on one side, nervous and silent, not daring to utter a word.

Ever since the chief learned of Wang Shouzhe’s allegiance to Prince Anjun, he became quick-tempered and irascible, with emotions fluctuating unpredictably.

His correspondence with Upper Capital City also grew more frequent, and each time a letter arrived, his mood soured.

"Shouzhe, you are truly venturing further and further down the path of betrayal," Long Wuji clenched the armrest tightly, his deep-set eyes gleaming with a certain greenish hue, "What is it about that Wu Mingyuan that compels you to support him so tirelessly?"

"Wouldn’t it be better if we all happily stayed as brothers?"

"No, I can’t allow Wang Shouzhe to continue down this wrong path; turning back is the way forward." Long Wuji narrowed his eyes slightly, a touch of fierceness flashing in his gaze, "Someone, get the army ready to set out. Target Changning Guard." 𝚏𝕣𝐞𝗲𝐰𝕖𝐛𝐧𝕠𝕧𝚎𝚕.𝐜𝚘𝗺

Zhao Wuqing trembled and quickly whispered, "Godfather, there are still about forty days until the ’Fifty-Year Agreement,’ please hold off a little longer."

"Hold off? If I wait any longer, Wang Shouzhe will be too far gone to turn back." Long Wuji’s anger made his eyes bloodshot, "Have the army set out at once, and besiege Changning Guard. Once the agreed date arrives, we march on Ping’an Town immediately."

"I, Long Wuji, must personally confront him and ask why he chose to betray me."

...