633.Chapter 633
“Today, I wish to reward you for your contributions. Whatever you desire–gold, silver, estates, or rare treasures–if it is within my power, you need only ack.”
Eliza clasped her hands together and softly recited a Buddhist chant. “Your Majesty is too kind. This is simply what i should do. I am already deeply honored by the favor shown by Your Majesty and the people, I dare not claim credit.”
“Even so, I must reward those who have served with distinction. There is no need decline, said Magnus.
Since the king had spoken so firmly, Eliza pondered for a moment before replying, “Thank you, Your Majesty. However, gold and silver hold little value for me, and estates are not what I seek. There is, however, one humble request I wish to make. May I ask for Your Majesty’s approval?”
“Speak freely, Holy Lady,” said Magnus.
Lowering her gaze, Eliza said, “Your Majesty is aware that my secular name is Eliza. Since leaving the Duke’s estate and severing ties with the Stonor family, I believe it’s no longer fitting for me to keep the Stonor name. Thus, I humbly request Your Majesty’s permission to change my surname to ‘Padilla‘, my mother’s name.”
The room fell silent, the weight of her words hanging in the air.
All eyes turned to the sovereign seated at the head of the hall.
Contrary to expectations, Magnus did not immediately grant his approval.
He hesitated, then explained, “Changing your surname might seem simple, but it’s connected to court politics. You were once his daughter, so my immediate approval could harm your reputation as the Holy Lady.”
Magnus was concerned that if Eliza truly changed her surname, the Duke of Mowbay and his allies among the court officials might seize the opportunity to launch a formal protest against her.
In our culture, honoring one’s parents is considered paramount.
Her father, Gabriel, could easily use “filial duty” and his role as her biological father to pressure Eliza.
He could accuse her of turning her back on her family, calling her unfilial and ungrateful.
If such accusations were to escalate, they could even jeopardize her position as the Holy Lady.
Magnus was quite pleased with Eliza, the Holy Lady of Bortenland, a title he had personally bestowed upon her.
In his view, the more successful Eliza was in her role, the more it reflected his own wisdom and foresight as a ruler.
Besides, her late mother had once done him a great favor, and Eliza shared a close bond with his queen, Diana.
For these reasons, Magnus rarely interfered with her position as the Holy Lady, nor would he allow anyone else to challenge it lightly.
“I understand, Your Majesty. If you approve, I’ll handle the rest myself,” Eliza said with a faint smile.
Her calm and composed demeanor caught the king’s attention.
Seeing her so confident, the king turned his gaze to Uncle Nolan.
Clearly, he suspected that Eliza’s confidence might stem from his uncle’s backing.
After all, in the court, Uncle Nolan was the only one who could truly keep Gabriel, that sly old fox, in check.
To his surprise, Nolan shook his head and smiled faintly. “Your Majesty, don’t look at me. I have no idea what the Holy Lady has planned.”
That statement was, admittedly, a bit of a stretch.
Eliza hadn’t shared her plans with him, but he had a hunch about what she might be up to. Still, he chose to keep quiet. So, Uncle Nolan isn’t involved?‘ Magnus raised an eyebrow, clearly surprised.
After scanning the faces of those present, he stood up and said, “Alright then, let’s head to the royal study. Eliza, Uncle Nolan, you’re coming with me.”
He was determined to hear how Eliza planned to deal with her cunning father, Gabriel.
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