My Grandmother Reclaimed Her General Armor And Punished My Ungrateful Grandfather To Save Our Family

Thank you for listening to stories at Stellar Novels. Hope you have a pleasant time listening to stories. Grandmother shed her silken robes, donned her battle armor, and prepared to behead her ungrateful husband. To welcome his new concubine into the manor, Grandfather had stood before the entire household and dragged up the old scandal from their wedding night. Grandmother had not blood. Back then, for the sake of the Commandery Princess's reputation, I had shouldered every ounce of blame. But that did not mean my heart was free of grievance. Husband and wife for more than twenty years, I remained chaste only for her, honoring the promise I made in my youth. Now that I am old, I want to live for myself. The moment those words left his lips, the entire hall erupted in cheers. Everyone praised Grandfather for his deep affection and sense of responsibility. Even my own father urged Grandmother not to be narrow-minded. Grandmother's hands trembled so violently she nearly collapsed. She stared at Grandfather in disbelief. The man who had betrayed her today was the same man who had prepared ten miles of red dowry to propose all those years ago, swearing he would love only her for the rest of his life. Grandmother let out a self-mocking laugh and said softly, Back then, to marry you, I knelt for three full days before the Buddha Hall. Today, you will kneel for three days as well. Only then will I agree to let you take a concubine. Grandfather's face lit up with joy. He hurried straight to the small Buddha Hall, but as I watched his retreating figure, Grandmother's eyes flashed with icy coldness. A chilling smile curved her lips. Yanner, watch closely. Grandmother will teach you this lesson only once. The Xialian family has no such thing as divorce or abandonment of a wife, only widows. The day Grandfather brought his new woman back to the manor was Grandmother's fortieth birthday. She had never liked extravagance, so the guest list was small, yet every single attendee was someone of immense status and renown. The birthday banquet was in full swing when Grandfather suddenly appeared, leading a ravishing young woman by the hand. In his other arm he carried a little boy a few years older than me. The woman looked no older than my own mother. Gentle, cautious, and obedient. The moment she crossed the threshold she knelt and greeted Grandmother as mistress. The entire duke of Wu's household shook with shock. Mother glared furiously at Grandfather. She pulled me to stand beside Grandmother, yet Father's expression remained perfectly calm, as if he had known about this all along. An indescribable feeling surged in my chest. Grandfather spoke with perfect clarity, silver-threading his temples, yet he still called that young woman Wan-Wan. Grandfather spoke with perfect clarity, silver-threading his temples, yet he still called that young woman Wan-Wan. I spat in disgust. Shameless old man, I cursed inwardly, my heart aching as I looked at Grandmother. Grandmother froze as if struck by lightning. The rims of her eyes slowly turned red. She dug her nails so deeply into her palms they nearly pierced the skin, yet she kept her One sentence, and the entire hall erupted like a stone thrown into a lake. Waves of voices rose in defense of Grandfather. Isn't the Pingyang Commandery Princess being too harsh? The duke has already lowered himself so far, yet she remains impure. She even made the heir take her surname, practically dragging her husband into her own family. Exactly. Back then, the duke of Wu was the most dazzling young talent in the capital. For the sake of the Pingyang Commandery Princess, he abandoned all glory and wealth, went to the borderlands, and fought through life and death just to marry her. Isn't that enough? If not for her, the duke's achievements would be ten times greater. Even Father sighed and took Grandmother's hand, speaking sternly. Mother, stop being jealous and embarrassing Father in front of everyone. The moment those words left his mouth, Grandmother closed her eyes. The corner of her lips lifted in a mocking smile. Mother stared at Father in shock about to speak, but he gripped her hand tightly, his face flushed with anger. Everyone's eyes were fixed on Grandmother, pressuring her for an answer. Only I quietly asked that shameless old man. Everyone in the capital knows Grandfather swore eternal fidelity to Grandmother and would never take a concubine. Yet now that he wants one, somehow it has become Grandmother's fault. The moment I finished speaking, Grandfather's expression changed drastically. Ever since I was born, the Duke of Wu's Manor had been the most prestigious household in the capital. Grandfather had only one wife, Grandmother. Father had only one son. After Father married Mother from the general's mansion, he too swore he would never take a concubine. Everyone said the feng shui of the Duke of Wu's Manor was unmatched. Even the men here were different from those in other families. Mother nodded in agreement and told me meaningfully, Back then, the reason I married your father was because I saw that your grandfather was a good man, and your grandmother was an exemplary mother-in-law. The family's moral conduct was upright. How could your father possibly go astray? Yan'er, a bad bamboo root cannot produce good shoots. When I was little, I nodded vigorously and carved those words into my heart. But Mother, it seems the bamboo in our house has already begun to rot. Not long after Mother gave birth to me, His Majesty suddenly summoned my parents to the border to fight. They left me in Grandmother's care. I witnessed with my own eyes just how deep the affection between Grandfather and Grandmother truly was. Even though they were no longer young, Grandfather still acted like a lovestruck youth. Every day he thought of new ways to make Grandmother smile. He personally crafted exquisite jade ornaments for her, and never tired of boasting in front of outsiders that the only treasure in his life was his wife. His sweet words flowed like water. Yet now, looking at that illegitimate child who was barely younger than me, I realized Grandfather had long possessed another treasure. He simply never spoke of it, and Grandmother had never known. She had been content in the choice she made all those years ago. Grandmother never liked fresh flowers, nor did she crave lavish jewelry. What she truly loved was secretly practicing martial arts in the courtyard and teaching me profound, difficult books. But for Grandfather's sake, she willingly buried her true self and pretended to adore the things other women loved. She once told me that in life, one must always exchange something for what matters more. She had Grandfather, she had Father, and she had me. This family was worth every sacrifice. But now Grandfather's furious roar dragged me back to reality. See, Lianzhu, look at the kind of children and grandchildren you've raised. No respect for elders, no manners. Father bellowed at me to shut my mouth. Amid the chaotic argument, Grandmother regained her composure, as calm as if Grandfather were merely discussing buying a fish. She said indifferently, If you want a concubine, fine. Back then I knelt for three days in the Buddha Hall to marry you. Today you will kneel for three days as well. Only then will I agree. Grandfather was overjoyed, his eyes shining. Truly, truly, without the slightest hesitation, he abandoned the guests, took his new woman and the child, and headed straight for the small Buddha Hall. After the banquet ended and Mother had seen the guests out, she shot Father a cold glare. You two are in perfect sync, avoiding me. I knew they were definitely going to argue, but at that moment I didn't care. I simply stayed quietly by Grandmother's side, feeling the warmth that had surrounded me for ten years. I asked softly, Grandmother, do you really intend to let that mother and son into the manor? A flicker of pain crossed Grandmother's eyes. She clutched her chest and said nothing. After a long while, her gaze gradually turned icy. Finally, she let out a soft laugh. That laugh carried grief, agony, and a trace of killing intent that could not be named. If he wants a concubine so badly, then I will grant his wish. Grandmother took me to the small storeroom and brought out the battle armor she had worn at Yangui Gate along with a cold, gleaming sword. Her eyes brimmed with nostalgia and tenderness. Yanner, watch carefully. Grandmother will teach you this only once. The Xielian family has no such thing as divorce or abandonment. Only widows. I looked at Grandmother with pure admiration. She still seemed like the gentle Grandmother I had always known. Yet she also seemed like an entirely different person. Mother had once said, Your Grandmother had a nickname back then. Something like the Yanlu Slayer. Grandmother lifted a cloth and gently wiped the sword clean. The eyes that had long been as gentle as still water slowly grew sharp and solemn. Yan-er Grandmother is about to do something that may change this household forever. Will you be sad? I reached out and touched the sword. When I heard her question, I shook my head. Grandmother is joking. Yan-er was raised by Grandmother. Wherever Grandmother is, that is my home. It's just, Mother loves Grandmother very much too. If we leave, can we take Mother with us? Grandmother's eyes curved in a smile. She gently stroked my head. A's expected of the child Grandmother raised. You're far better than your father. Grandmother summoned the lame old gardener, Old Ding. She had taken pity on him years ago and kept him in the manor, though Grandfather had never liked him. Today, Old Ding looked nothing like his usual self. The moment he stepped inside he pressed his lips together, though he limped. His aura was ice-cold and murderous. Commandery Princess, that Shen Wenyuan has gone too far. Grandmother replied calmly. Contact our old comrades. It has been a long time, I wonder how they are doing. Old Ding's eyes brightened. The corner of his mouth could not help but lift. Though I did not understand everything, I could guess that the shameless old man was about to meet with misfortune. I could not help laughing along with him. I could not hear clearly what was said behind me, but I knew something monumental was about to happen. Grandmother patted my shoulder and told me to go find Mother. I obediently left her courtyard. Mother was sitting on the bed, eyes red and swollen, looking even more heartbroken than Grandmother. I hurriedly wiped the corners of her eyes and asked softly, Mother, what's wrong? Although Mother had not raised me much, she had still given birth to me and often sent people with letters and messages. In my heart, after Grandmother, the person I cherished most was Mother. What if Mother also agreed to let Grandfather take a concubine? Obviously, my worry was unnecessary. Mother pulled me close and said through gritted teeth, if Grandfather takes a concubine, I will divorce your father. At that time, will you come with me back to the General's mansion? I scratched my head awkwardly and cautiously asked why. Mother suddenly stood up, her expression grave, and told me an old story about Grandmother. Twenty years ago, Grandmother, then the Pingyang Commandery Princess Xialian Zhu, had practiced martial arts since childhood and was well-versed in military strategy. She was a woman of both talent and beauty. It was a pity the late Emperor disliked women interfering in court affairs, so Grandmother's grand ambitions could never be realized. That year, Grandmother went to stay at her maternal family's home at the border. When the enemy launched a surprise attack and traitors in the court blocked supplies, she disguised herself as a man, led troops in a night raid, beheaded the enemy general, burned their provisions, and saved the entire city. But she exhausted herself and was captured. She suffered the enemy's revenge and humiliation. By the time reinforcements arrived, it was already too late. Mother looked at me with solemn respect. You must never speak of this again, and you must never look down on her. Grandmother, you are a hero of the great Sheng Dynasty. As for the Duke of Wu, he truly makes one sick with contempt. Back then, who in the capital did not know Shali and Zhu? Countless young noblemen admired her, yet she rejected them all, except one. Mother said Grandfather had pursued her for a long time, showering her with attention. He felt pain for her and wished he could protect her for the rest of her life. In the end, he moved her heart and they became a loving couple. Hearing this, I clenched my fists. A sour, choking sorrow rose in my chest. I said coldly, so what? The closest people are husband and wife, yet they are also the easiest to grow apart. Back then he cherished her so much, yet now he still wants to take a concubine. It's a pity that after living with Grandmother for so many years, he still underestimated her. Mother did not catch the deeper meaning in my words. She simply thought I was speaking out of indignation for Grandmother and nodded comfortingly. You were raised by Grandmother since you were small, so I naturally feel at ease. Grandmother has taught you well. Now that she is facing this, she will definitely need someone by her side. I'm fine. You can stay with Grandmother. At any time, be prepared to change residences. Ah, why did I feel like the two of them didn't actually need me that much? Still, I obediently agreed and ran back to Grandmother's side. Half a day passed. Grandmother seemed unchanged. She still sat at her desk practicing calligraphy as usual. In the past Grandmother said practicing calligraphy calmed the mind. Was she preparing to calm her mind now? So Grandmother had once been a great general. No wonder I had always felt she was different from ordinary people. While other noble young ladies were learning the four arts and worrying about managing the household and educating children, Grandmother would secretly take me riding. She herself never mounted a horse, she simply stood quietly at the side and watched. What was she thinking about back then? Was she remembering the old days? In the end, it was all because of that shameless old man who had ruined her entire life. I crawled over and peeked. Grandmother suddenly spoke. Yen, er, have you ever heard the saying the mantis stalks the cicada, unaware of the oriole behind? I blinked and nodded. Of course I had. Grandmother smiled. The crow's feet at the corners of her eyes were deeply etched. Right in front of me, she called her trusted shadow guard inside. The man appeared as if from thin air, his movements ghostly, his aura extraordinary. Go keep watch on Shen Wen Yuan. Grandmother's expression was complicated. The moment the order left her lips, the man vanished from sight. In the blink of an eye, she had regained her usual demeanor. She took my hand and walked to the corridor. Grandmother instructed Aunt Chun to inventory her Dari, the commandery princess's tokens of trust, and the accumulated assets from the silver shops over the years. Only then did I understand. Grandmother truly intended to leave this place. Her eyes and brows were as cold as frost, as if she had become an entirely different person. The years in the duke's manor had left their mark on that face, yet after all this time, had Grandmother truly changed? Right in front of me she practiced sword forms. Her movements were practiced and fluid. Nothing like someone who had not trained in years. I heard that the moment Grandfather knelt in the Buddha Hall he began cursing viciously. Stupid woman. I want to see how she plans to end this. Everyone knows how deeply I love her. For her to act this way now is no different from repaying kindness with enmity. When her trusted aide reported this, Grandmother's lips curved in nothing more than a contemptuous smile. The news Old Ding had sent out through his connections had already received replies. Twenty years ago, the Pingyang commandery princess had been both rebellious and legendary in the eyes of the world. She spent her days in military camps. Nothing like a proper young lady of the inner courtyard. Dangerous, and her reputation outside was terrible. Yet she had saved an entire city, forcing everyone to shut their mouths. Those who understood her loved her. Those who did not envied and slandered her. Rating the replies one by one, I finally realized just how many people outside respected and adored Grandmother. Most of them were furious to the extreme. They cursed Grandfather for being a blind dog who had eaten ---- and did not know the value of the gold and jade he possessed. In the end, every single one asked how Grandmother planned to handle this. In one letter I read clearly. The Pingyang commandery princess should have been a free bird soaring in the sky. Why did she let herself be trapped in the back courtyard? Ever since Grandfather brought his new woman home, Grandmother had maintained her calm façade. But when she read that line, her eyes slowly reddened. After a long time, Grandmother picked up her brush and wrote only one sentence. Shen Wenyuan is a dead man. The Yanluo Slayer has returned. On the first day of kneeling in the Buddha Hall, Grandfather was extremely quiet. I sneaked over to watch. Although he was not young, his back was still straight. Beside him stood Concubine Bai and the child, waiting on him. Concubine Bai clutched her son with one hand and dabbed at her tears with the other. My lord, no matter what, you are the duke. Kneeling in the Buddha Hall for three days, how will it look if word gets out? Grandfather shook his head firmly. For the past few years the commandery princess has indulged my every whim. She still has me in her heart. Naturally she will understand my feelings. In less than three days she will definitely give me a way down. Concubine Bai hesitated and glanced at him. But the commandery princess's demeanor that day truly did not seem like an act. Grandfather cut her off. She's only putting on a show for others. It's fake. Besides me, who else would want a woman who is no longer pure? I'm tired of coaxing her. If she knows what's good for her, the three of you can simply live in the manor from now on. Concubine Bai's face stiffened, an indescribable strange look flashing across it. I stood outside the door and nearly burst out laughing. I had always thought Grandfather wasn't very bright. Today proved me right. When I returned, I told Grandmother how Concubine Bai and the child had been attending Grandfather in the Buddha Hall. Without the slightest hesitation, Grandmother immediately ordered them thrown out. The matter between the Pingyang commandery princess and the Duke of Wu concerned only the two of them. What did it have to do with a mere concubine? Grandfather was old after all. After kneeling for only one day he already felt exhausted, and wanted to see Concubine Bai and the child again. Grandmother refused without the slightest mercy. The Duke had promised to kneel for three full days. If he could not endure even that long and still wanted his concubine to step onto the main path, what would the world say when word spread? Grandfather had valued face all his life. Grandmother had seized his fatal weakness. No matter how many messages or warm clothes Concubine Bai tried to send into the Buddha Hall, Grandmother blocked them all. Autumn turned cold, the night wind cut to the bone. Grandfather suffered day and night. Aunt Chun was in charge of delivering his meals. On the second day I followed her there. Aunt Chun looked at Grandfather with an icy face. Back then, the number of men who pursued the Pingyang commandery princess was beyond counting. You were merely a minor heir with a Sankyr position. How could you have won the commandery princess's heart? Has the Duke forgotten? The commandery princess was once betrothed to the Prince of Guangling. To refuse that marriage she knelt for three days in the Buddha Hall, ate nothing, and drank only a little water each day. I am not making things difficult for the Duke. This meal is already complete. Please do not complain. I set the tray down. The white rice was there, but every other bowl contained nothing but coptis, bitter melon, and other bitter ingredients. Just looking at them made one's teeth ache. I stood with my arms crossed, watching Grandfather's face turn black as the bottom of a pot. Grandfather, do not starve yourself to death overtaking a concubine. If word spreads that you went on a hunger strike, it really will not sound good. Grandfather raised his hand to slap me. I immediately lifted my skirt and ran. For the past two days, carrier pigeons had flown nonstop to Grandmother's courtyard. People came and went like a shuttle. The place was bustling. The moment I returned, another pigeon landed. I leaned in, eyes glued to the message. Grandmother laughed softly and tapped my nose lightly. Together we read the letter. The more she read, the more solemn Grandmother's expression became. Finally she slammed the letter onto the table with a loud smack. Shen Wen Yuan, you truly are something. Three days were almost up. Concubine Bai came to the manor to beg an audience with Grandmother. Grandmother shed her usual cold indifference. A smile appeared on her face. Concubine Bai wishes to enter the manor. There are a few matters we should start preparing for. Concubine Bai's eyes curved into smiling crescents. The moment she heard those words, she could not hold back her smile. She pushed the child beside her straight toward Grandmother. Hurry and greet your mistress. The boy's face filled with obvious disgust as he glared at Grandmother. I immediately sprang out from beside Grandmother and slapped him hard across the face. What are you looking at, you fake little thing? You and your mother schemed with every ounce of your cunning just to sneak into the manor, didn't you? The boy froze, then let out a loud wail. Concubine Bai rushed forward to protect the child, angrily snapping, Yenor, no matter what, he is still your uncle. How can the little miss be so rude? As she spoke, she shoved me. Aunt Chun hurried to steady me. Grandmother, who had remained silent until now, suddenly darkened her expression and slammed her hand on the table with a resounding bang. Etiquette. Your son meets this commandery princess and fails to perform the proper greeting. Is that what you call etiquette? Yenor was raised single-handedly by me. She understands propriety and knows right from wrong. If she had not encountered shameless, thick-faced creatures like you and your son, why would she ever be forced to act? A delicate young lady of the inner courtyard has to step forward herself. Huh me? A delicate young lady? I immediately pinched my thigh hard, forcing tears to well up in my eyes. Grandmother has already yielded this far, yet you still want more. So what if grandfather is the Duke of Wu? Grandmother is still the commandery princess. To meet the commandery princess and not perform the proper rites. You truly do not put the imperial family in your eyes at all. Concubine Bai was stunned again and again, unable to comprehend how just a few exchanges between us could possibly make her son guilty of offending the imperial house. Aunt Chun kicked Concubine Bai squarely in the knee. Concubine Bai staggered and dropped to the ground with a heavy thud. My eyes flashed. Grandmother also sensed something was off. Aunt Chun had learned martial arts from grandmother. Normally one kick would drop any woman to her knees instantly. Yet Concubine Bai had stiffened before she fell. She had clearly trained in martial arts before, and had probably recovered her balance. Concubine Bai wiped her tears and immediately began pouring out her grievances. Every sentence spoke of how she had followed grandfather for many years and endured countless hardships. Grandmother pretended not to notice the suspicious detail, and listened with full attention. In the end she sighed and ordered people to help the mother and son to their feet. This commandery princess has always been easy to talk to. If you know your place and live peacefully in the manor, enjoying wealth and glory is not difficult at all. I am no longer young and will not quibble over primary wife and concubine like the younger generation. It is only that this manor has grown used to peace, and my heart cannot rest. Now that the Duke of Wu has knelt in the Buddha Hall for three full days on your behalf, I should also keep my word. Naturally, I agree to let you enter the manor." Grandmother looked at Concubine Bai with eyes full of concern. Concubine Bai was slightly dazed, her eyes reddening. She lowered her head. Thanks to the Duke's mercy, this concubine will serve the Duke and the commandery princess with all my heart. The smile on Grandmother's face grew even brighter. In that case, once the Duke returns from the Buddha Hall, we shall hold a family banquet. The whole family will sit together for a meal, clear up everything that has been left unsaid, and leave no more misunderstandings. It can also serve as a celebration for the Duke taking a concubine. Concubine Bai eagerly agreed, her entire body visibly relaxing. I stood to the side without saying another word, only feeling that Grandmother truly loved me the most. The moment Concubine Bai tried to touch me, Grandmother immediately shielded me. No matter what, I was still Grandmother's most cherished granddaughter. Concubine Bai had simply miscalculated one thing Grandfather's affection for her was truly not deep at all. Yesterday, when Grandfather could no longer endure it, and tried to leave the Buddha Hall, it was Grandmother who ordered people to drag him back and force him to continue kneeling. She said that since he insisted on playing the role of the deeply devoted Duke, how could he let Concubine Bai be disappointed? He had promised three days, so three days it would be. He had to kneel whether he wanted to or not. Grandmother had called it a family banquet, but that day many guests arrived. There was the Prince of Guangling, as well as the Marquis of Zhongyang, the General who guards the state, Grand Commandant Lord Liu, Chief Minister Wu of the Court of Judicature, and roughly ten other important court ministers. When Grandfather heard they were coming, he was initially a little suspicious. The messenger smiled and told him, the Duke's reputation for deep affection has spread throughout the capital. Moreover, the Duke of Wu's Manor has produced two generals in recent years. Everyone is simply coming to form connections. I had thought Grandfather would grow wary, yet he actually believed it. Faced with my surprise, Grandmother merely smiled faintly. With the Prince of Guangling present, of course Grandfather would want to see him again. Years ago Grandmother had nearly been married to the Prince of Guangling. Although the Prince had long since taken a princess consort, the grudge between him and Grandfather had never been resolved. An old love rival arriving precisely in time to witness him taking a concubine, how could Grandfather resist? Grandfather strode into the front hall wearing a deep, purple court robe, his face glowing with satisfaction. Concubine Bai had also changed into a soft pink dress that swayed with her every step. Wherever she went she wore a gentle smile, her lashes lowered like a small, pishable creature that made others want to protect her. Years ago this concubine met the Duke on the battlefield. When your grace was wounded while fighting the enemy, it was this concubine who saved you, tended your injuries, and helped you return to the capital. The Duke's military talent back then was only average and nearly allowed the enemy to seize the advantage. It was my parents, serving as deputy generals, who risked everything to turn the tide. Father frowned at those words. Lately my parents have been quarreling. Mother refused to speak to Father, so Father came to me for help. Who would have thought I would ignore him too? Father had no choice but to coax us for several days without any success. In the end Mother could not hold back and mention Grandfather's situation. Father simply thought it was nothing unusual. Father is old now. Isn't it perfectly understandable that he wants to do something for himself? Mother laughed in anger. So if you grow old one day and want to take a concubine, I should happily prepare everything for you. Father panicked. How could I be that kind of man? I will never take a concubine. I only meant that my parents are getting on in years. Letting them enjoy a bit of old affection isn't better. Mother did not even need to think. So you mean that once you are old and tired of me, I should obediently step aside tomorrow and take Yann, or back to the general's mansion? Father quickly clarified. My meaning is that if you ever wish to divorce and find someone new, I will support you. But from beginning to end, I have only loved you. I do not know how things were resolved after that. I only knew Mother had not forgiven him and was still prepared to divorce Father in support of Grandmother. At that moment Grandmother had not yet appeared. Father, having endured enough cold shoulders, went to Grandfather to urge him not to take a concubine, only to be slapped flying by Grandfather, who cursed him as an unfilial, shameless son. Father returned clutching his swollen cheek, still unable to Neither Mother nor I paid him any attention. We seriously searched for Grandmother. Before long Grandmother appeared. Today Grandmother had not styled her hair in the usual married woman's bun, nor did she wear the dignified robes of a duke's wife. Instead, she wore a solemn set of dark red armor, her long hair tied neatly, her posture straight as a pine. Her eyes burned like leaping flames. She no longer looked like the gentle, proper Duchess of Wu, but like a towering pine standing firm against a fierce gale. In that instant, every guest froze in shock. Even Grandfather's smile vanished as he stared at Grandmother in stunned silence for a long time. My heart surged with emotion and admiration as I gazed at her. The Yanlu Slayer of the Great Sheng Dynasty, Xiaolian Zhu, had returned. Honored guests who have come to this banquet today, Xiaolian is deeply grateful. However, before the feast begins, allow me to settle a few old scores. Grandmother's voice was not loud, yet her aura made everyone tremble. Grandfather frowned in displeasure. Lianzhu can't whatever it is wait until after the meal. What if you ruin everyone's mood? Grandmother did not spare him a single glance. Her eyes, sharp as blades, shot straight toward the smugly-smiling concubine Bai. Concubine Bai, your deep love and righteous affection with the duke truly moves the heart. But when you climbed into his bed, whose name were you actually thinking of? Shen Wenyuan, or your own grandfather, General Quan, vanguard of the northern enemy, the man I killed with my own hands twenty years ago. The shy smile on Concubine Bai's face instantly froze. Her complexion turned deathly pale. Grandfather looked at Concubine Bai in shock, then back at Grandmother, clearly unable to understand the meaning behind her words. Grandmother did not wait for anyone to refute her. Her voice was steady, each word heavy as a boulder. That year, General Quan was caught off guard by my night raid, fell into a hopeless position, and was forced to sign a ceasefire treaty with the Great Shang Dynasty, offering tens of thousands of tales of gold and silver, fine horses and pearls. The Khan was furious. The Quan family declined and his relatives suffered humiliation. Yet you, seeking revenge, saved Shen Wenyuan. You thought you would enter the manor soon, but who could have guessed that Shen Wenyuan would pretend to be weak, while stubbornly refusing to let you become his official concubine? For ten full years you remained in secret, mistress. Moreover, the one who sent you here was a spy from the enemy nation of Great Shang. Am I wrong? The entire hall erupted. Everyone turned to stare at Concubine Bai and Grandfather with all kinds of expressions. Concubine Bai clenched her hands tightly, eyes brimming with tears. If the mistress does not wish this concubine to enter the manor, this concubine can leave. There is no need to pin such a grave crime on me. Concubine Bai was cunning after all. With one sentence she tried to shift a national grudge into a private household matter. But Grandmother was not led astray. She pointed lightly at me. Yan, Er, bring out the confessions, secret letters, and physical evidence we have prepared these past few days. I immediately took out a wooden box from beneath the table and opened it. Inside were all kinds of proof that Concubine Bai had colluded with enemy spies. Every item and every piece of evidence crystal clear and impossible to forge. Concubine Bai screamed and shook her head desperately. You have only been framing me for three days. How could you possibly dig up so much? This is fake. The mistress fabricated everything because she does not want me in the manor. Grandfather's already ugly expression darkened further. He roared, Lion Zhu, stop this nonsense. Without evidence, how dare you speak such wild accusations? Grandmother finally turned her gaze to Grandfather. The corner of her lips lifted in a cold smile, no evidence. Shen Wenyuan, you were in such a hurry to marry an enemy spy as your concubine that you did not hesitate to kneel in the Buddha Hall for three days. Are you playing the part of a madly infatuated duke? Or are you actually colluding with the enemy to harm the great Sheng dynasty? Grandfather slammed the table and shot to his feet, so furious he nearly coughed up blood. Outrageous. What proof do you have that any of this is true? We can prove it, said the Prince of Guangling, the Marquis of Zhongyang, the general who guards the state, and the others as they stepped forward. The Prince of Guangling's eyes burned as he looked at Grandfather with undisguised disgust. Because every single piece of evidence was personally investigated by the Pingyang Commandery Princess with our assistance. Grandfather's face changed colors rapidly, you are her old flame. Who knows whether your words are true or false? But Grandmother remained unmoved. Her eyes grew even sharper as her voice suddenly rang out clearly. You wanted proof, didn't you? Very well. I will give it to you. Grandmother pulled a red ledger from the box and slammed it onto the table. This is the account book from when you supervised the border region years ago. You colluded with corrupt merchants, smuggled military provisions, and embezzled 50,000 tales of silver. The evidence is ironclad, every entry can be verified. She drew out another stack of secret letters. These are the letters proving you secretly conspired with court officials, sold offices, and formed factions to plot rebellion. So this is the incorruptible reputation of Shen Wenyuan, filthy beyond belief. All these years I trusted you and respected you, yet I never once checked your private treasury. Furthermore, you used my dowry to buy houses and land for Concubine Bai. You used my money to raise the descendants of the enemy nation. Shen Wenyuan, where is your integrity? Where is your face? With every sentence Grandmother spoke, another piece of evidence was taken from the box. Those ledgers and secret letters struck Grandfather's face like hammer blows. His complexion flushed red, then white, then turned a sickly green. The entire Grand Hall fell deathly silent. Father stared at Grandfather with wide eyes, his gaze filled with disappointment and complex emotions too deep for words. After a long while he spoke coldly, Father, I thought you only wanted to take a concubine. I never imagined that after all these years you had been secretly plotting something so deep. From today onward, our father-son relationship is severed. Grandmother ignored Father. She walked step by step toward Grandfather, her icy gaze fixed on the man who was trembling so hard he nearly collapsed. In her eyes there were no tears, only the disappointment and twenty years of burning grief. Ace for the so, called impurity, you once mocked me for, Shen Wenyuan, you know the truth better than anyone. Grandmother's voice suddenly turned pained, yet every word was clear and cut like blood dripping from a wound. It was all because twenty years ago, to save an entire border city, I launched a night raid on the enemy camp and killed General Quan. Afterward, exhausted, I was captured and suffered the enemy's humiliating revenge. Do you still remember what you said to me that year? Grandmother lifted her head and gazed into the distance, as if seeing once more the scene of their heartfelt conversation. You said it was not humiliation, but a military achievement that Xiao Lianzhu had won for the great Sheng dynasty. I had saved an entire city. You respected me. You loved me. You were willing to bear that scar with me for the rest of our lives and never forget it. Yet today, now that you are old, you use that very scar as a stepping stone to take a concubine and trample my dignity beneath your feet. Shen Wenyuan, you are truly not human. Grandmother's voice trembled, carrying both pride in the heart, wrenching pain of betrayal. Her eyes seemed to bleed as each word sliced like a blade. I, Xiao Lianzhu, hereby declare were I to face that choice again. My answer would remain the same. As long as I draw breath, I will never abandon the people of Great Sheng. Thunder cracked across the sky. A flash of white lightning lit up the hall. Everyone clearly saw Grandmother's face, heart as stone and unyielding, and Grandfather's deathly pale, terrified expression. Father dropped to his knees with a heavy thud, filled with shame. Mother choked back sobs as tears streamed down her face. Every servant in the manor watched as their eyes changed from contempt to deep respect. The banquet hall was so quiet one could have heard a pin drop. Grandmother drew the Yanlu Slayer from her waist. Without the slightest hesitation she pressed the blade against Grandfather's throat. Before he could utter a single word, she slashed, severing his neck in one clean stroke. Concubine Bai screamed. The child beside her trembled in terror. Crying loudly for his mother, Grandmother looked at Concubine Bai with icy indifference, the sword still dripping with Grandfather's blood. Guards. Arrest her. Charge her with espionage. Interrogate her with the harshest methods. We must uncover her true purpose and who stands behind her. The imperial guards immediately dragged Concubine Bai and her son away. Grandmother looked at the child with not a trace of pity. Someone below could not help speaking up. Commandery Princess, you have endured too much today. I do not wish to trouble you further. I stepped forward. Honored uncles and lords, Grandmother invited you here today for two reasons. First, because she considers you true friends. Second, because she wanted witnesses so that everything can be reported to His Majesty. The Duke of Wu's concubine-taking caused a huge stir. The Duke's manor must give the world an explanation. But Grandmother is tired now. Please return to your residences first and allow us to handle our family affairs. The Prince of Guangling rose first and led his people away. The rest of the guests followed one after another. Father staggered forward and knelt before Grandmother, his eyes full of regret. Mother, I was wrong. When Father came to me saying the manor lacked people and wanted to bring in a secret mistress, I thought you were both old and it would not matter, so I agreed to help persuade you. I never imagined there was so much more behind it. I looked at Father with pure disgust and did not bother to speak. Grandmother's voice was wary, her eyes cold and carrying not the slightest trace of motherly affection. She said indifferently, Since you know you were wrong, conduct yourself with respect from now on, and do not follow in your father's footsteps. The Duke of Wu's title will certainly not remain in the Great Sheng Dynasty, but you still have your military position. Go back. As for Yan, er, she will follow me. Whatever you and your wife decide is your own business. There is only one condition if she wishes to leave. You will sign the divorce papers immediately. Father's body stiffened. Tears poured down like rain. I did not know whether his remorse was real or feigned, but I knew everything was already far too late. Early the next morning, Grandmother removed her luxurious robes and entered the palace carrying her iron certificate of merit and the ironclad evidence. With half a lifetime of military achievements, she exchanged them for the lives of my parents and myself, presenting countless pieces of proof to His Majesty. Grandfather had not known Concubine Bai's true identity back then. Yet if not for his foolishness, Concubine Bai could never have hidden beside him for so many years, stealing so much information. And the reason Grandmother could uncover everything so quickly was because Concubine Bai had left herself a way out. She had kept every secret transaction Grandfather had made over the years. In just one night Father's hair turned completely white. He clung to Mother every day, hoping she would change her mind. But Mother remained firm in her principles. When I chose my husband, the first thing I looked at was what kind of parents he had. Your mother is a respectable heroine, but your father was a petty man. That day you helped your father take a concubine. How can I be sure you will not follow in his footsteps later? Mother spoke these words with a faint curve to her brows, as if she had already seen through everything. No matter how Father swore eternal love, Mother was determined to divorce. Yet because both of them served in the military, they could not avoid meeting. Father pursued her relentlessly, chasing her all the way to the border. In the end Mother made an exception and allowed him to become her official lover. The Duke of Wu's manor was sealed. Grandmother removed her luxurious robes and changed into simple green garments. Carrying the Yanlu Slayer, her dowry, and the loyal servants who followed her, she left. I rode my little horse clothes behind Grandmother and sighed. If Grandmother had not married Grandfather back then, you would never have had to endure all this and lose your freedom. Before we set off, Grandmother turned to look at the manor that had imprisoned her for half her life. Her gaze was deep and distant. Yan. I have never regretted the choice I made back then. That year my story shook the capital. Mother cried every day at home, afraid I would never find a husband. In court there were those who praised me, but just as many who called me a shameless woman who disgraced the dynasty. The number of people who wished me dead was beyond counting. Yet I still married your grandfather. There were many reasons, but the affection between us was the smallest one. After the late emperor passed, the new emperor carried out sweeping reforms for many years. The court gradually began to accept women's voices. The empress herself was a pioneer who knew how to judge talent. Leaving at this moment was perhaps the best choice. As for Concubine Bai, it was said that not long afterwards she confessed everything. She and the child were locked in prison day and night, awaiting the fate they deserved. Five years later, the silver at Grandmother's temples had increased. Yet her spirit was sharper and clearer than ever. She smiled as she taught the border soldiers new battle formations and instructed young women in self-defense. I followed Grandmother for five full years, traveling across the entire great Sheng dynasty. This time we had come to the border to visit my parents. Five years had passed. Mother still had not agreed to remarry father, while father guarded her every day, refusing to let any other man come near. When he chased after us again, the smile on Mother's face instantly turned to anger. I am racing horses with Yan and your mother. Are you blind? Why are you disturbing us right now? Father lowered his head pitifully. I thought someone else had arranged to meet you. Grandmother shot me a glare. The two of us immediately rode off elsewhere. The border scenery was breathtakingly beautiful. Endless grasslands stretched beneath a vast blue sky dotted with eagles spreading their wings. Grandmother sat tall and straight as a pine. The Yanlu Slayer at her waist reflected the prairie sunlight. Even sheathed, its aura was awe-inspiring. The sight was so beautiful it took my breath away. I could not help shouting loudly, Grandmother, hurry back. We still have to roast the lamb leg. That concludes today's story on Stellar Novels. We hope you enjoyed it. Please give us a like, leave your thoughts in the comments, and subscribe to stay updated with new stories. See you next time.