Yinreng's whip was a specially made cowhide whip, which hurt people a lot when it hit them.

Longkodo was beaten so badly that he ran away with his head in his hands. Every time he wanted to fight Yinreng, he didn't dare to because he saw Tong Qinian standing there.

Everyone knows Tong Qinian's sharp tongue; he can make people feel ashamed and indignant with his words, and everything he says is reasonable, justifiable, and legal, leaving no room for argument.

Besides, even if they really fought, he wouldn't be able to beat Yinreng.

This is not a good-for-nothing crown prince; he is the heir whom even Emperor Kangxi was proud of.

Longkodo was beaten to the point of near death, but Yinreng still had some restraint and didn't hit him in the face.

Even in the palace, punishing servants is done sternly, let alone for Longkodo, who was an official who had to attend court. Leaving a mark on his face would be bad for Yinreng's reputation.

Aside from his face, there wasn't a single good spot left on Longkodo's body.

Tong Ruita stood guard at the door, clicking his tongue in amazement. He and his elder brother had planned to finish off the young master before adding a few more kicks. Judging from the current situation, they'd probably have to wait for another opportunity.

Those naive people outside who believed the Crown Prince was a benevolent person should really come and see what's happening before them, so they can see Yinreng's true nature.

Longkodo, who was arrogant and domineering outside, became as obedient as a grandson in front of the Crown Prince.

Tong Ruita was lost in thought, but her face still wore a simple, honest smile.

Longkodo glanced over and saw the two brothers he had previously ignored, their expressions unchanged from when he arrived. One was smiling, the other grinning sheepishly, making it hard for him to breathe.

After Yinreng finished beating the man, his face, which was as white as jade, was flushed with a rosy hue, making him extremely handsome.

The fierceness in his phoenix eyes faded, replaced by a gentle warmth.

"Thank you for your hospitality, Lord Tong. I see you must be tired, so there's no need to see me off." Yinreng spoke with great politeness, but left as coldly as the wind.

"I'll take my leave." Tong Qinian cupped his hands in greeting to Longkodo, his smile incredibly amiable.

Longkodo curled up on the ground, too lazy to even lift his eyes and say another word to them. He had finally come to his senses and knew why his father had run so fast.

Si'er, everyone told him not to take Si'er as his wife, but he refused to believe it. He was beaten and whipped, and even laughed at by those less fortunate than himself. He had given so much; he couldn't give up everything.

Longkodo coldly gazed towards the backyard, which was not far from the Jue Luo family's courtyard.

The fact that no one came to investigate despite the commotion suggests that they were stopped by someone.

“My good wife, what a virtuous wife. Ha.” Longkodo’s eyes flashed with hatred.

Jue Luo Shi hid in her courtyard, occasionally hearing Longkodo cry out in pain, and laughed with her face buried in her handkerchief. But, as she laughed, she burst into tears.

It wasn't that she wouldn't let him take concubines; there were quite a few beautiful women in his harem. After nearly twenty years of marriage, he showed her absolutely no respect.

If he doesn't want this marriage, how can she possibly get it?

She always complains about her incompetent father, saying he lives off the Tong family. But does Longkodo dare to honestly say he didn't receive a single benefit from her family?

Even choosing a servant in the Duke's mansion is a process of selecting one in a hundred, let alone her, the legitimate wife of the eldest son. Wasn't she carefully considered in every way before coming to propose marriage, bringing back betrothal gifts and a bridal sedan chair?

"Madam, should we go and fetch a doctor? It seems the Third Master can't get up." The confidant that Jue Luo had sent out to investigate returned and asked in a low voice.

Jue Luo elegantly wiped away the tears from the corners of her eyes: "Go and pay your respects to Mother."

"ah?"

"Women in the back courtyard are not allowed to interfere in the affairs of the men in the front courtyard. This is a rule that Third Master set for me. Did no one see you coming and going? If Third Master finds out, I won't be able to protect you," said Jue Luo Shi.

The confidant hurriedly replied, "This servant was careful on the way and no one saw us."