After that brief episode, no one dared to step forward again. Curiosity and indignation were quickly swallowed by fear. In times like these, no one wanted to become the next one casually brushed aside.
Ryan paid no attention to the shock around him. After clearing away the nuisance, he lowered his gaze to Mu Xianling, who was still trembling beneath him, and asked again, this time with a noticeably calmer tone, "Are you obedient now?"
Tears welled in Mu Xianling's eyes as she nodded repeatedly, her voice soft and broken. "I… I'm obedient. I'll listen."
"Good." Ryan released her and lifted her upright, then placed her firmly behind him. "Stand here."
Mu Xianling staggered back a step and ended up directly behind Ryan. She wiped her tears quietly, her emotions in complete turmoil.
