Returning to the story, the noble families and power elite group, led by Marquis Wuping, collectively opposed the emperor's implementation of three policies: levying land taxes, reclaiming fire tax, and making both officials and gentry pay taxes equally. Initially, they sat in silence outside the Imperial Study for seven days. The emperor had thought they would only last three days before feigning illness, but unexpectedly, they sat for seven days, which surprised the emperor.
After seven days of silent protest, Marquis Wuping and those with him fell ill and collectively missed court sessions. Upon learning of their illness, the emperor specifically sent the Imperial Physician to treat them. The physician reported back that Marquis Wuping and the others were merely exhausted and nothing serious. As a result, the emperor rewarded them with tonic medicines for them to rest well at home.
