Rules Changed

In the past, this situation stemmed partly from the government's struggle to collect taxes effectively. Each family's tacit acknowledgment of the mountain bandits' authority served as a means to maintain regional security, indirectly benefiting both the populace and the government. Consequently, tax payments dwindled.

However, this laissez-faire attitude among the families led to officials having minimal influence. The lack of accountability allowed the families to become increasingly audacious, while officials begrudgingly acquiesced, unable to assert their authority.

Prefect Lords sought to distance themselves from this predicament, showing little concern for the issue. Consequently, year after year, the situation grew more peculiar.

When Shao Yunduan jokingly disclosed this to Qiao Xuan, she found the situation incredulous, remarking, "Truly, the world is full of wonders!"

With Shao Yunduan's arrival, the status quo demanded change.