Chapter 1556: Dissuasion
Editor: Henyee Translations

Shao Yunduan had initially believed it to be a straightforward task. The Crown Prince, known for his benevolence, might find it inconvenient to directly intervene, preferring plausible deniability. Shao Yunduan understood the necessity for discretion, yet hoped the Crown Prince would at least feign ignorance.

Who could endure someone plotting harm against their spouse?

However, Shao Yunduan didn’t anticipate that his words would place the Crown Prince in an uncomfortable predicament.

Upon Shao Yunduan’s direct approach, the Crown Prince found himself both pleased and troubled.

His satisfaction stemmed from the realization that Shao Yunduan treated him as a confidant, sharing whatever weighed on his mind. The difficulty lay in the nature of the matter at hand–it posed a genuine challenge for him.

Only then did he comprehend that Madam Shao had indeed been kidnapped, her rescue a mere stroke of luck courtesy of Young Master Xie. Yet, it coincided with the actions of his Fourth Brother…

In response to Shao Yunduan’s silence, the Crown Prince averted his gaze uncomfortably, avoiding eye contact.

Shao Yunduan’s disappointment was palpable. Without further words, he awaited the Crown Prince’s decision.

“Cough, cough!” The Crown Prince, feeling increasingly uneasy, cleared his throat and looked away, evading direct confrontation.

Shao Yunduan’s heart sank, and he held his peace, anticipating the Crown Prince’s directive.

“Officer Shao, I have cautioned him. Rest assured, he won’t dare to harm you in the future, or I won’t spare him! Fortunately, Madam Shao returned unscathed this time. Let it go.”

Shao Yunduan, “…..”

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The Crown Prince sighed, his expression troubled. “After all, he is my brother. Regardless, I must afford him another chance. I acknowledge the injustices you and your wife have endured. Officer Shao, do not worry–I’ll remember.”

“Don’t worry?”

Shao Yunduan sneered inwardly, clenching his fists in disappointment. The Crown Prince’s apparent coldness and selfishness took him by surprise. It became evident that the individual facing trouble was not someone within the Crown Prince’s inner circle, and his reaction was nonchalant.

“Crown Prince, my intention was not to burden you. I simply thought it necessary to inform you. Please, Crown Prince, pretend you are unaware of this…”

The Crown Prince, lacking knowledge of the situation, need not be troubled.

Shao Yunduan demonstrated understanding and consideration for the Crown Prince.

However, the Crown Prince responded thoughtlessly, “No! Officer Shao, let’s ensure this doesn’t occur again. I assure you, there won’t be a next time!”

“Crown Prince,” Shao Yunduan asserted with determination. Bowing respectfully, he clasped his hands and spoke earnestly, “Forgive me, Crown Prince, but I cannot accept this passively! If it weren’t for the fortuitous encounter with Young Master Xie, I shudder to think how terrified and injured my wife might be. The mere possibility is unbearable.”

Even if he couldn’t confront the Fourth Prince directly, he would find ways to restrain him.

This was within his power.

The Crown Prince, visibly angered, exclaimed, “Officer Shao, why are you so obstinate?”

With a sigh, he took a deep breath and continued, “Fine, I’ll be candid with you. A few days ago, my young grandson, Xuan Yi, narrowly escaped an accident while riding a horse in the Northern Court. Fourth Brother, disregarding personal danger, intervened and saved him, sustaining a broken leg in the process. I cannot overlook such an act of kindness.”

“Officer Shao, I implore you this time! I recognize the injustice you and your wife have endured, and I will make amends in the future.”

“Therefore, when Father summons you tomorrow, there are certain matters I cannot discuss in his presence… Do you comprehend my meaning?”