They refused when approached nicely, yet became willing when force was used instead. Weren't they just begging to be treated like dirt?
"No wonder His Majesty wanted troops stationed everywhere. Unless you take a hard line with these aristocrats, they'll take a mile when given an inch, climb onto your head, and shit and piss on you."
"What a bunch of spineless wretches."
Lü Bu snorted inwardly. He finally understood why the Son of Heaven had ordered him to send troops out to garrison the various regions and intimidate them. These people simply had to be dealt with firmly.
Show strength, and they cowered; back down, and they thought you were afraid.
After giving them another thorough round of instructions, Lü Bu had them taken away, then rose and headed for the military camp.
He had to go show off to Zhang Liao.
Night fell over the Cui Clan Residence.
At the back gate of the Cui Residence.
An inconspicuous black carriage stopped there, and a man wearing a veiled hat stepped down and knocked softly on the gate.
Soon, the back gate opened a crack, and he was welcomed inside.
Led by a servant, the veiled man passed through splendid courtyards and pavilions, finally reaching a secret chamber deep within the Cui Residence and walking straight inside.
Several people were already waiting in the secret chamber.
When the veiled man entered, they all turned their gazes toward him, their expressions varying. Sitting at the head was Cui Yan.
"Clan Head Dou, you're late by a full stick of incense."
Dressed in magnificent brocade robes and holding a hand warmer, Cui Yan spoke to the veiled man, a trace of displeasure crossing his handsome face.
The veiled man took off his hat, revealing an ordinary middle-aged face. It was