Smack! Smack! Smack!
The rattan whip danced in afterimages, whipping up fierce gusts.
"You were told to attend the trial, yet you refused. Every day, you were either loafing around at home or running off to fool around. You did not practice your stance, train your skills, or read your books. I specially got you a fine horse, yet you could still be late during the Chen hour! The Chen hour! Unfilial wretch! Unfilial wretch!"
The Brocade-Robed Master's eyes were bloodshot, his brows standing on end. The youth bound to the wooden stake gritted his teeth and endured, blood seeping from the corners of his lips. Even the yellow earth beneath the stake had begun to loosen.
Beside the two of them came earth-shaking wails.
"Ah! Child's father, stop hitting him! Stop! Look, look! He is covered in bloody welts! Keep hitting him and something will happen! The New Year Festival is almost here, the academy is far away, and the trial lasts three days. The child only wanted to spend the New Year Festival with us—such filial devotion!"
"Shut up! You have the nerve to say that? Spend the New Year Festival with us? During the few days the academy was on break, did he spend even one day properly at home without going out to fool around?"
When all was said and done, it was because you spoiled him! I gave him twenty taels a month just for his allowance. Where did all the extra money on him come from? Keep yelling! Keep yelling, and I will beat you too!"
"Ah!! You are going to hit me too? Fine! This life cannot go on! I am going back to my parents' home! Chunjuan Qiulan! Prepare the carriage and pack our things!"
The shrieks were piercing.
The servants' ears