Kindness and Might

Shao Yunduan's voice cut through the air with cold precision, "These 20 strokes are for you novices. If there's a next transgression, you'll face 30 strokes and three months of imprisonment. Subsequent offenses will warrant 40 strokes and a year behind bars. If you doubt whether I keep my word, feel free to test it!"

The eight battered individuals were unceremoniously ejected from the government office, limping away and supporting each other in their hasty retreat.

The others were paralyzed with fear, initially hesitant to entertain any thoughts.

However, unable to part with the stability of the job and occasional small perks, some gathered in groups of three to five, seeking mercy from Lord Shao at the state office.

Shao Yunduan kept them waiting for three hours. Once they finally met, and after they had kowtowed and pleaded for mercy, he sneered, "Regretting it now? What were you thinking earlier?"