When the local scholars saw the proclamation from the Kong family, they were shocked but also hesitant.

The rebels in the three prefectures have now been quelled, and the imperial army is at the height of its power. If we respond now, we will surely be wiped out.

However, this proclamation did indeed originate from the Confucius family, leaving scholars from all over the country in a dilemma.

Just as scholars in various places were hesitating, several young men from the Kong family who had escaped arrived in several places one after another, telling everyone about how the rebels had splattered blood on the Kong family mansion and forced the Kong family to write a proclamation.

Upon learning how despicable the rebels were, the scholars of several counties were also furious. They immediately contributed manpower and food to assist the government in organizing a militia and building city defenses to resist the rebels.

At the same time, several young members of the Kong family, along with scholars from several counties, issued a proclamation listing all the atrocities committed by the rebels and sent messengers to spread the message far and wide, inviting scholars from all over the world to join in the condemnation.

While the various counties were busy preparing to resist the rebels, the army led by Chen Man and Lu Qing had already arrived at Xiang County, the capital of Pei State.

Looking at the moat outside the city, the high-hanging drawbridge, and the local militia standing guard on the city walls, Chen Man and Lu Qing couldn't help but exchange a puzzled glance.

Chen Man then ordered several of his men to bring Kong Bao to the moat.

Who is stationed on the city wall?

As Kong Bao finished speaking, the Chancellor of Pei State, the magistrate of Xiang County, and a young man all looked out of the city.

Pei Guoxiang glanced at Kong Bao outside the city, then looked at the young man beside him.

The young man understood and immediately stepped forward, saying loudly, "Nephew Kong Yan greets the head of the family!"

Upon hearing this, Kong Bao, who was outside the city, couldn't help but show a look of joy: "Is it Yan'er? Are Wenju and the others safe?"

Kong Yan said loudly, "Master, please rest assured, we are all at ease. Scholars from all over the country are now aware of the evil deeds of those rebels, and have already issued a proclamation, inviting the whole world to join in their condemnation!"

"Very well! With this, my Kong family can survive, and I can rest easy!"

Upon hearing this, Kong Bao felt reassured. After speaking, he took advantage of the guards' inattention and immediately leaped into the moat.