Springtime Farming: A Happy Wife At Home
Chapter 1904

Chapter 1904: Punishment Chapter 1904: Punishment Editor: Henyee Translations In Shao Yunduan’s estimation, the notion of the First Old Master Fan committing such a foolish act seemed improbable, regardless of his perceived foolishness.

Conversely, the Second Old Master Fan appeared lacking in the courage required for such a scheme.

In contrast, the woman seeking a husband appeared impulsive and arrogant, heedless of the consequences of her actions.

However, given the First Old Master Fan’s confession, Shao Yunduan saw no need to expose him.

Ultimately, the outcome remained unchanged, and it mattered little to him.

It was advantageous that the First Old Master Fan willingly assumed responsibility.

As the head of the family, his culpability would only exacerbate matters.

The imperative task of apprehending the mountain bandits demanded immediate attention.

Shao Yunduan swiftly arranged for personnel to capture them from the Fan Family.

Turning his attention back to the First Old Master Fan, Shao Yunduan spoke gravely, “Banditry is a grave offense, punishable by confiscation, exile, or execution.

Even if you acknowledge your wrongdoing, death cannot be evaded.

Do you confess?” “I-I confess.

I plead guilty.

I beseech your mercy, Lord!” The First Old Master Fan’s voice quivered as he bowed once more, demonstrating respect, genuine contrition, and unwavering cooperation.

Shao Yunduan exhaled deeply, relieved that the lives of the entire family were spared.

“All businesses registered under the Fan family name will be forfeited daily.

Failure to forfeit 150,000 mu of fertile land will result in a fine of 300,000 taels of silver.

The principal offender shall be imprisoned for three years.

To avoid imprisonment, a sum of 50,000 taels of silver may be paid as penance.

However, during this period, the principal offender is restricted to Anze Province and must conduct themselves impeccably.

Any transgressions will be met with dual punishment!” Shao Yunduan’s words struck the First Old Master Fan with a pang of anguish.

The severity of the punishment weighed heavily on the Fan Clan.

Despite bracing himself for Shao Yunduan’s judgment, he hadn’t anticipated such ruthlessness.

Each decree felt like a deep wound.

First Old Master Fan ventured cautiously, “aEUR| Lord, the Fan family will unquestionably heed your guidance from now on.

Please, have mercy!

This punishment is truly, trulyaEUR|” “I cannot afford leniency in public.

It would compromise my authority in the future.

Anze Province operates under different circumstances.

Even with the eradication of these bandits, lasting stability is uncertain.

I consider my judgment to be lenient already!” Cold sweat trickled down the First Old Master Fan’s back.

He dared not contest further.

Hastily, he nodded in agreement.

“Yes, yes.

Your wisdom is undeniable, Lord.

My lapse in judgmentaEUR| My lapse in judgmentaEUR|” Given the gravity of the Fan family’s transgressions, he had little ground to stand on, even with their assets on the line.

Shao Yunduan’s expression twisted into a sneer.

“As long as you understand.” He cast another meaningful glance at the First Old Master Fan, adding pointedly, “Remember to maintain discipline within your family.

Any further indiscretion will be met with impartial punishment!” He wasn’t oblivious to the likelihood that the First Old Master Fan might not be the primary culprit.

However, he tacitly acknowledged this while ensuring the First Old Master Fan understood that he was aware of the situation.

As expected, the First Old Master Fan visibly startled, his heart skipping a beat.

He nodded fervently, unable to suppress the urge to wipe the cold sweat from his foreheadaEUR| Shao Yunduan summoned Zheng Sangge and instructed him to draft the case for the First Old Master Fan’s signature.

He then tasked him with leading a contingent of men to the Fan Family’s residence to announce the punishment and oversee the confiscation of assets.

Additionally, Shao Yunduan directed another scribe to swiftly prepare a document, making multiple copies, sealing them, and distributing them throughout the city, including at the city gate.

The severity of the Fan Family’s offense demanded public acknowledgment and explanation, lest rumors and falsehoods spread, particularly considering the character of Old Lady Fan and Fan Ruyin.

Shao Yunduan understood the importance of clarity in such matters and resolved to draft another document to report the incident to the magistrate, ensuring transparency and accountability.