There is a world of difference between an imperial punishment of forty lashes and fifty lashes, despite the mere ten-lash difference.
Within the palace, there has always been an unwritten rule: fifty lashes mean death from beatings. If fifty lashes are delivered and the person is not dead, the executioner themselves would face death.
Once "fifty lashes" is pronounced, the censors standing not far away exchange glances, some gloating, "The arrogant traitor truly believes he can act recklessly through the official gateway? Little did he know that even an Innate Official can be beaten to death on the spot with fifty lashes."
Another middle-aged censor stroked his beard and commented, "It seems that even His Majesty cannot tolerate his arrogant behavior, ordering his death to set an example. This action serves as an explanation to the Imperial Inspection Office, the Ministry of Rites, and Taichang Temple."
