Princess Pingning was gritting her teeth so hard that she almost shattered them, yet she didn't utter a single sound.
The moody sound of the beating mingled with the rain; the chill it sent down the spine felt palpable. Mother Rong's pleas for mercy echoed outside, her voice shrill and husky, akin to a vengeful ghost.
Unable to bear the discomfort brought by the sound and fearing it would shatter the hearts of the servants further, Princess Pingning ordered, "Why hasn't anyone gagged her yet!"
Jiang Shu barely lifted his eyelids, appearing somewhat sleepy. But the words he spoke sent shivers down the spine: "No need to gag her. Let the servants hear what happens when they disrespect their masters. After thirty strikes, dismiss her from the Duke's residence. In consideration of my mother, I won't be too hard on her."
Princess Pingning felt suffocated and begrudgingly replied, "Shushu, isn't this a bit too harsh?"
