Strange Stories From A Chinese Studio.

Summary

In the Longshan region during the Kangxi era, Yang Ling exploited a chaotic situation to seize local livestock, leaving citizens destitute. Despite merchants' pleas for help, Yang ignored them, boasting of his power. Three officials attempted to confront him but were met with mockery. A well-dressed young man challenged Yang, proclaiming that greedy officials would be punished. In a fit of rage, Yang attempted to seize him, but the young man transformed into an owl and escaped, laughing. This incident highlighted the corruption among officials, who profited from the suffering of others, while the owl's laughter became a symbol of disdain among the people.

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