Within the Heavenly Prison of the Ministry of Justice.
Crack—crack—crack.
The whip swung across the air, splitting skin and flesh. Two prison guards were fiercely lashing Li Youyun with a whip soaked in cold water. But Li Youyun was merely a frail scholar; how could he withstand such a brutal beating? He was covered in blood, long having fainted, yet he still mumbled about being wronged.
"Has he confessed?"
Great Scholar Zhang Chushan entered the dim cell, coldly questioning the two prison guards.
"Sir, this scholar is quite stubborn. He refuses to confess even unto death." The two prison guards were panting heavily, clearly exhausted from repeated beatings.
"Wake him up with water." Zhang Chushan frowned and commanded.
Swish.
A basin of cold water was poured over Li Youyun, causing him to let out a cry of pain, gradually opening his eyes.
"Why… why are you framing me?"
