Evelyn's Coronation: The Rise of a Reluctant Empress

A small noble could no longer suppress his discontent and shouted loudly, "Are you serious? A woman who's about to give birth being chosen as Empress? Does the Duchy of Luen have no men left?"

His words caused several others to nod in agreement. Some of the prominent nobles shot glares at Raymond, thinking, Finally, someone is speaking the truth! Let's see how he explains this—he can't just make excuses, can he?

However, Raymond remained calm and composed, replying without missing a beat, "Lady Evelyn is the wife of the Pope. She is no ordinary woman. Lady Evelyn is highly capable, both in intellect and strength of will. There is no one more suited to the throne. Under her rule, the Duchy of Luen will surely flourish and become even stronger."

The small noble quickly changed his tune, his face now full of sycophantic smiles. "After hearing you speak, Archbishop Raymond, I see now that Lady Evelyn is truly the perfect choice. Under her wise leadership, the Duchy of Luen will thrive and grow stronger than ever."

The other nobles couldn't hold back their disdain, whispering among themselves, How quickly he switches sides. How shameless.

Raymond couldn't help but raise an eyebrow, silently impressed. This one's got talent—he's got a knack for seeing which way the wind blows, just like me.

Meanwhile, the nobles who hadn't recognized Evelyn's name before now began to understand. So this is the Pope's plan—to keep the throne in his hands through his wife. Why fight it now? The struggle's already over.

They murmured among themselves, If he wanted his wife on the throne, why didn't Rowan just announce it outright? Why make such a spectacle? Who's he trying to impress?

The atmosphere in the hall grew increasingly tense and complex as everyone harbored their own thoughts.

Duke Lansca sat in frustration. He had arrived with high hopes of claiming the throne, having already made alliances with various nobles and promised rewards in exchange for their support. But now, the situation had completely shifted. Evelyn, the Pope's wife, was chosen as the Empress, leaving him with nothing.

Despite the anger boiling in his chest, he knew better than to make an open move against the decision, especially after the royal family had just been destroyed for offending the Radiant Church. He couldn't afford to make the same mistake.

After much internal debate, he finally stood, bowing respectfully to Raymond and said, "Archbishop Raymond, Lady Evelyn is indeed unwell and soon to give birth, so she cannot assume the throne right away. But the affairs of the country cannot wait. I believe I am quite familiar with the workings of the Duchy and have some experience in governance. I humbly request to temporarily manage the state until Lady Evelyn can take her place."

He tried to sound as sincere and humble as possible, though his eyes betrayed a hint of eagerness. He hoped that Raymond would grant his request—at least he could secure some advantage in the chaos of the succession.

Raymond shot a quick glance at Rowan, silently asking for his opinion.

Rowan frowned slightly, weighing the situation. After a moment's pause, he gave a small nod, signaling that Duke Lansca's request could be granted.

Raymond turned back to Duke Lansca, offering a smile that appeared friendly but was anything but. "Very well, Duke Lansca. Since no one else has any objections, we'll proceed with your suggestion. We'll announce it to the public to reassure the people and maintain stability."

Raymond's smile faded as his gaze grew sharp. His voice took on a more serious tone as he addressed the gathering. "However, I must stress this—Evelyn's election as Empress was a unanimous decision. This is the will of all the nobles and clergy. From this moment forward, there must be no dissent. If I find anyone speaking ill of this decision or spreading rumors, I will deal with them without mercy."

With that, Rowan turned to the presiding judge, Ian. "Judge Ian, the palace is a crucial site. Given the sensitive nature of the situation, I need you to assign extra personnel to protect it. We cannot allow any traitors to take advantage of this moment and harm the nobles present."

Ian straightened, giving a firm nod. "Rest assured, Your Holiness. I will immediately make the necessary arrangements and ensure everyone's safety."

With that, Rowan left the palace. News of Evelyn's impending coronation as Empress was soon broadcast across the Duchy.

The announcement was like a stone thrown into a still pond, sending ripples throughout the public. Many were shocked to hear the name Evelyn for the first time. Whispers filled the air, but when the announcement clarified that the decision had been backed by all the noble families and officials, the people slowly began to accept the reality of it. After all, being chosen by such powerful figures meant that Evelyn must have extraordinary capabilities and charm—perhaps they had simply not heard of her before.

As speculation and excitement swirled, the entire Duchy of Luen awaited the coronation of their new Empress.

Back home, Rowan walked into Evelyn's room, where she sat by the window, her eyes filled with a mix of confusion and hope.

He gently approached her, his voice soft as he spoke, "My dear, everything is arranged. You will soon be the Empress of the Duchy of Luen."

For a moment, Evelyn was stunned. Then, her face broke into a brilliant smile, as pure and radiant as a child receiving her favorite toy.

Rowan walked over and gently lifted her into his arms, his smile teasing. "I kept my promise, didn't I?"

Evelyn gazed up at him, her eyes sparkling with joy. "I never imagined I'd become Empress. I thought you were just joking when you said that."

Rowan raised an eyebrow, feigning mystery. "So, how will you thank me, this man of my word?"

Her cheeks flushed, and with a playful yet loving tone, she whispered in his ear, "I'll give you many, many children."

Rowan laughed, a warm, hearty laugh. "I'll hold you to that, don't you dare go back on your word!"