The Shattering of the Dream

Longyuan held out his hand while trembling.

Smack, smack, smack—

The old man struck it viciously and repeatedly again.

Unable to bear it, Longyuan pulled his hand away again, and begged tearfully, "No, stop… it hurts! Next time, I'll memorize it in time!"

Even so, the old man commanded quietly, "Hold your hand out, Your Highness."

Yielding to the old man's threats, Long Yuan held out his hand.

Smack, smack, smack—

Elder Meng struck Longyuan's hand heavily a few more times, before putting away his stick.

Longyuan's little hand was numb, burning, and aching. He rubbed it firmly on his own clothes, while tears had long since welled in his big, round eyes.

It hurts! How could the elder be so ruthless?

Nonetheless, Elder Meng flatly said, "Now, I'm going to teach you the meaning of every line in this book, Your Highness. It would be best if you listen seriously, or you'll suffer the consequences yourself—understand?"