As long as the Imperial Court issued a decree, Anze Province would comply without question!
Otherwise, it would be out of the question.
Shao Yunduan saw nothing wrong with his stance. Prefect Liu was being excessively demanding and miserly.
Moreover, in these turbulent times, Shao Yunduan was keenly aware of Prefect Liu's ulterior motives. Why should he acquiesce to such demands and invite trouble upon himself?
Furthermore, Shao Yunduan had every confidence and justification to refuse. He wasn't afraid of potential retaliation.
His confidence stemmed from his own abilities and the righteousness of his cause. Anze Province was self-sufficient, as dictated by the imperial court's decree in the past. If Prefect Liu wished to change this, he would need to provide clear justification, not merely issue arbitrary commands.
