Chapter 12: Brutal Punishment

Natalie

The lash bit into my back again, tearing another ragged cry from my throat.

"That's fifteen," the guard intoned coldly. "Only five more to go."

I sagged in my restraints, breath coming in short, pained gasps as blood trickled hot down my skin. My back felt like it had been shredded to ribbons by the brutal whip.

Fifteen lashes so far for daring to defy Lucas during his twisted water torture game earlier. Even though I had survived the challenge itself, my "bad attitude" warranted correction. So said Lucas as I was dragged away bloody and half conscious by his thugs.

The remaining slaves had watched in silent horror as they beat me into the dirt right there in the courtyard. I was to suffer the consequences publicly as a warning to them all - obey without question or face wrath.

Lucas himself had not stayed to oversee the punishment, but his chilling promise echoed in my mind. "Discipline her properly. But not so severely that she can't work tomorrow."

Was he angry about my vi