With every strike, Lady Zhao's blows were accompanied by dull thuds and tremors in the air, but even such violence couldn't break the unshakeable bond of affection between mother and daughter.
Time seemed to freeze until Lady Zhao, drained of both physical strength and rage, finally ceased her assault, her heavy breathing laced with the arrogance of a victor.
"Remember this, behave yourselves from now on! If there's a next time, see how I'll deal with you!"
After saying this, Lady Zhao casually tossed the wooden stick aside, her threatening words piercing through the fragile hearts of the mother and daughter like ice.
They clung to each other, tears swirling in their eyes, but they dared not cry out loud, because of their silent agreement, to protect their two younger sisters who might still be sleeping soundly in their dreams at this moment.
