Final answer:
The word 'praised' is the best antonym for 'scolded' in the given context.
Step-by-step explanation:
The best antonym for the word 'scolded' in this line from the story is 'praised'. Scolding someone means to criticize or reprimand them, while praising someone means to express approval or admiration. In the given context, Chao is angry at his sons, so the opposite of scolding them would be to praise them.
Learn more about Antonyms for 'scolded' in a story