Love's Unexpected Awakening Elowen's Choice novel Chapter 416

Chapter 416 A Title That Cuts Both Ways

Theodric’s expression tightened slightly.

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At that moment, Elira spoke up with a soft sigh. “I heard Beatrice caused trouble when she first arrived at Duskmoor Manor, overstepping her place and offending the Duchess. Her Majesty should be cautious. It’s possible she’s holding a grudge.”

Isla’s smile only deepened. “A fair concern. But Beatrice isn’t the only one. Wasn’t there a girl named Seren from your household? She knows as well. She’s even read Azure’s work. If you doubt it, you can ask her.”

Elira stiffened, her expression darkening.

Isla continued calmly. “Elowen may not have been known for scholarship in her younger days at Hale Manor, but writing stories is a matter of talent, not upbringing.”

She turned to Elowen, voice gentle. “Still, since you are Azure, you should have told us. To the court, His Majesty is your sovereign. But within the family, he is also your elder brother.”

Sandy picked up the thread smoothly. “Elowen, I’ve admired Azure’s work for a long time. I always imagined someone distant, someone I’d never meet. And yet here you are. If it’s not too much to ask, could you sign an autograph for me someday? I would treasure it.”

Between the two of them, the matter had already been pushed into place.

Isla sat a little straighter, clearly satisfied. “Your Majesty, now that word is spreading, shouldn’t the Duchess be granted a title? It would reflect well on the royal household.”

Elowen understood immediately.

So this is how she’s playing it… not coming at me head-on, just building me up first so the drop hits that much harder.

Theodric didn’t answer right away. His gaze shifted to Cassian.

Cassian sat at ease, the faintest hint of a smile touching his lips.

That was enough.

Theodric turned back to Elowen. “Well? Are you Azure?”

Isla’s voice softened, persuasive. “I know you’re modest. You may hesitate to admit it. But think about what this means. Your house stands on your shoulders now. You cannot take the field

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Chapter 416 A Title That Cuts Both Ways

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father did, but recognition like this carries its own kind of honor. If he could see you now, he would be proud.”

Elowen felt that land exactly where it was meant to.

She knows exactly where to press.

“Your Grace?” Isla prompted.

All eyes were on her.

Elowen lifted her gaze and rose to her feet.

The gold-thread phoenix embroidered across her gown caught the candlelight as she stepped forward, shimmering with quiet brilliance.

She came to the center of the hall and lowered herself into a formal curtsy. “Your Majesty. It’s true I’ve written under the name Azure. Tales of Luminara, and more recently, Ode to Springlight. They’re only meant as light reading, nothing of great importance. That’s why I never made it public.”

A flicker of satisfaction passed through Isla’s eyes.

Theodric studied her. “There’s nothing to be ashamed of.”

Elowen kept her gaze lowered. “Even so, I cannot accept a title.”

Theodric gave a faint smile. “It’s only a title. There’s no reason to refuse. I’ve read Tales of Luminara. It’s well written. Not everything that endures has to come from history or doctrine. If people love it, that’s enough.”

He raised his voice, carrying easily across the hall. “Have it proclaimed. The Duchess of Duskmoor is hereby granted the title Lady of Grace and Virtue. Further honors will be sent to Duskmoor Manor after the banquet.”

Elowen lowered herself again in a formal curtsy. “Thank you, Your Majesty.”

Isla smiled, gesturing lightly to the attendants. “Go on, spread the word. Let everyone share in the celebration. Lady of Grace and Virtue… it suits her perfectly.”

“Yes, Your Majesty.” The attendant bowed and quickly withdrew.

Theodric cast Isla a measured glance.

She returned it with an easy smile. “I mean no harm. A woman’s talent shouldn’t be hidden

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