Chapter 12: Announcing the Exile

After attending the funeral, Su Nuoli’s identity was now openly acknowledged—it was completely solidified.

That evening, everyone gathered in the main hall. Her grandfather—no, now he was officially her grandfather—sat at the head seat, while she took a seat to his left.

Her grandfather spoke first. “Now that only family is present, from now on, Lili, you will address Su Ning as your father. As for that Su Bei, let’s not mention him anymore. Thankfully, he was never entered into the family records, or we would regret it now.

Now, since we are one family, certain matters must be settled in advance. Since you are now my son, I will divide half of my wealth with you. As for the other half, don’t even think about it—that is for my precious granddaughter.”

“Father, we don’t want it!” Su Ning immediately refused. “We agreed from the start that all of this belongs to Lili. We are already deeply honored just to be able to call you ‘Father’ in an official capacity. If we were to take a share of the wealth, we would be no better than beasts!”

“What about the rest of you? Do you feel the same?” the grandfather asked.

Her two older brothers responded in unison, “Yes, Grandfather!”

Her aunt spoke next. “Though I am just a woman, I have taken some etiquette lessons thanks to Father. None of those lessons ever taught me to be an ungrateful ingrate. Besides, daughters should be cherished, while sons must earn their own achievements to gain respect. So, we don’t want it.”

Her grandfather laughed heartily. “Hmph! You all don’t want it? Well, I insist on giving it! This is also what Lili wants. But since you are so insistent, I will give you only 30% instead of half.

No need for objections—your job is to support Lili in the future. And besides, every matter requires proper financial arrangements.”

Su Nuoli noticed all four of them looking at her, so she said, “Father, Mother, Eldest Brother, Second Brother, since we are a family, there is no need to decline. Besides, considering what is about to happen, it’s best to have some extra funds.

Since you have all taken the oath of silence, I’ll be direct. Our family is likely to be exiled within the next twenty days. I suspect the reason is that the Prime Minister and the Crown Prince are plotting a rebellion. Because we have some family ties with them, we will probably be collateral damage.

This outcome cannot be changed, and even if it could, it would be too late. Besides, staying in the capital may not be a good thing. According to recent rumors, enemy nations are eyeing our borders hungrily, and two countries are already on the verge of destruction. The balance of power may soon shift, forming a three-way standoff between the Eastern Li Kingdom, the Southern Xiao Kingdom, and the Northern Sea Kingdom.

This might actually be a good opportunity for us to escape. We must ensure that no news of this leaks out. During this time, we should go out, have fun, and keep up appearances—if we look too worried, it will arouse suspicion.

As for the journey into exile, don’t worry. I have a way to make sure we have enough food and warmth. I’m telling you this so you can be mentally prepared and assist me in certain matters.

First, we will keep two estates, but all other properties and lands will be sold for silver—real silver, not banknotes. Mother, please organize the seamstresses to make the clothing I have designed. We will work on both fronts. That’s all—everyone, think it over and start preparing. Grandfather and I still have things to discuss.”

“Grandfather, I…”

“My dear granddaughter, no need to say anything—I already understand. Your grandmother always thought I was foolish and easily deceived, but in truth, I have been willfully ignorant. I enjoyed letting her care for and dote on me.

Don’t truly think your grandfather is old and foolish. I know your grandmother left you an inheritance—don’t say a word about it. The wealth I am giving you now is what I have earned in the past four years—it is no small amount.

Take it. Grandfather will live with you. Even though I have sons and grandsons, I will not stay with them. Your grandmother entrusted you to me, so I will follow you.”

Su Nuoli smirked. “Hmph! If you dare not follow me, I wouldn’t be happy about it anyway!”