Upon learning Mu Yuyan's identity, Zhe Liang could feel the intensified imperial pressure, having just embarked on his spiritual journey, he almost found himself breathless under the weight.
He swallowed hard, mustering his willpower to steady himself, determined not to embarrass himself in front of Gu Lan.
He calmly spoke, "Forgive me, Your Majesty. Within my clan, I am regarded as worthless, and subjected to endless humiliation. They sought to break my legs and cast me out of the city. It was Prince who rescued me from their clutches, leading to the altercation."
Mu Yuyan's expression darkened instantly.
She turned to Liu Yexi beside her and commanded, "Order the Imperial Announcements Bureau to apprehend those noble members of the Abyssal Clan. Give each of them eighty lashes!"
"I have already decreed that the Abyssal Clan shall submit to Jing Nation. All individuals of the Abyssal Clan are henceforth citizens of Jing Nation. No one shall be allowed to oppress them."