2698: Not Scaring

Not Scaring

/You instructed Li Ye to directly proceed to the restaurant and identify the wrongdoers for immediate public retribution. You stressed the need for a discreet approach that wouldn't incite unnecessary fear./1

/Wasn't this approach rather unsettling?/

/Imagine the shock one would experience when witnessing a notorious gossip-monger being dispatched by a quilt, leaving even their own parents unable to recognize them./

Qiao Mu furrowed her brow and remarked, "Once you've dealt with them, position the key instigators of these rumors in the Central Plaza. Ensure they are securely bound there, making them visible to all."

"Remember to address the crowd with utmost decorum, explaining that these individuals have propagated baseless rumors and thus face their due consequence. Do you comprehend?"

Li Ye nodded earnestly. "I understand, Crown Prince Consort."

Qiao Mu nodded approvingly, yet added a concerned reminder, "Above all, avoid causing unnecessary fright."

Eunuch Chen, stationed nearby with head respectfully lowered, nearly stumbled in disbelief. My apologies, Crown Prince Consort, but this is hardly the realm of comedy…

The Crown Prince Consort maintained a serious demeanor. Satisfied with Li Ye's grasp of her orders, she nodded and signaled for her to proceed with the entrusted tasks.

As the sun dipped below the horizon, the Crown Prince was at last free from his audience with the Emperor. Just as he was about to inquire about the rumors, Li Ye entered the scene.

"Respects to both the Crown Prince and the Crown Prince Consort."

"How are matters progressing?" inquired the youthful crown prince consort with genuine interest.

"You've been exemplary," affirmed Li Ye.

Eunuch Chen struggled to hold back a chuckle. Could it be that this subordinate bore an uncanny resemblance to the Master? This new attendant named Li Ye maintained a composed countenance strikingly reminiscent of the young crown prince consort. Her words and deeds were equally efficient and succinct.

"As per the directives of the Crown Prince Consort, I tasked the Night Pavilion members with disseminating the information. Following this, I visited a bustling restaurant that attracted a diverse crowd from across the capital. True to expectations, I apprehended three troublemakers who were currently spreading damaging rumors linking the Crown Prince Consort to a looming disaster."

"I didn't resort to intimidation. Simply unsheathed my sword and left the trio with superficial wounds."

"Curiously though, before I could offer an explanation, the entire restaurant's occupants bolted, their voices echoing in panicked flight."

A faint twitch graced the Crown Prince's lips.

"I solemnly swear, my actions did not intend to frighten anyone."

The youthful crown prince consort assented.

Li Ye's voice turned frigid as she recounted, "Subsequently, I suspended these three miscreants within the Central Plaza, suspending them from the pillar adjacent to the mission tablet."

"To my astonishment, even the plaza denizens fled this time. I barely managed to utter a word about their rumor-mongering before the entire audience vanished."

"I stand by my assertion that fear was not my intent."

The young crown prince consort concurred with a nod. Crown Prince Mo fought a suppressed smile, a hint of discomfort evident in his expression.

Li Ye clarified, "Given my predicament, I took the liberty of affixing a notice to the perpetrators, elucidating the situation. I believe anyone with vision can decipher it."

"Tell me, what did you write?"

"I penned: Those who propagate falsehoods and besmirch the Crown Prince Consort shall meet a fatal end!"

From her inner recesses, the young crown prince consort retrieved a petite porcelain vial, presenting it to Li Ye. Following this, she affectionately tapped Li Ye's shoulder. "Your composition was commendable. Consider this a reward."

A suppressed snicker broke free from Crown Prince Mo, his hand supporting his forehead as laughter escaped unrestrainedly.

Both the young crown prince consort and the young crown prince shared a quizzical glance, silently chastising the crown prince: /Why was he grinning during such a grave situation?/

"We appreciate your diligence. Now, return and get some rest," the young crown prince consort instructed, dismissing Li Ye.

That night, all the rumors surrounding the Crown Prince Consort mysteriously dissipated. However, discussions about Mu Jingfeng's remarkable exploits on Mu Jingfeng's peak resurfaced, with jubilant stories about these feats circulating throughout the streets.

At the crack of dawn, the Crown Prince Consort led a retinue of individuals to the Butterfly Pavilion in a splendid procession…

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