Salute To The General

The news that Nathan was about to pay a visit to the Curia in a purely private capacity soon reached Eugene IV's ears, and only then did the gravity of the situation dawn on him.

I thought he was only joking! It never crossed my mind that he would actually come to see me and even declare that he'll get me to take back what I said in front of everyone! The expression on Eugene IV's face was grim.

After all, he felt that for many believers, any woman would be honored to get chosen by the Curia to be the Holy Maiden.

Yet, Nathan, after having his daughter selected as the Holy Maiden, protested against it repeatedly and requested that the Curia choose someone else.

That in itself had already put the Curia in a tight spot, and in order to safeguard their best interests, Eugene IV had not wanted to offend Nathan, which was why he had held back from responding to the latter's protests.

I thought the matter would end there, or he'd eventually be forced to accept the fact that his daughter is the next Holy Maiden. However, I underestimated him. The last thing I expected was for him to come to the Curia to look for me and seek justice. Now, I have no choice but to take this matter seriously. How is it that the grand title of the Holy Maiden would make someone feel so uneasy that they would stop at nothing to get rid of it? If things get out of hand, it may severely impact our reputation.

After learning of Nathan's imminent arrival, Eugene IV wasted no time in convening an emergency meeting with the key members of the Curia to discuss their strategy.

The Ten Elders from the Curia's Council of Elders, five War Gods of the Light, ten Holy Guardians, dozens of eminent cardinals, and Hepburn-the Holy Maiden-attended the meeting.

Sitting on the throne, Eugene IV swept his gaze across them before saying calmly, "I'm sure you're all aware of the recent events. Mr. Cross isn't pleased that the Curia named his daughter the next Holy Maiden and insists that I seek out a new candidate. He's also planning to come to the Čuria to meet with me. What are your thoughts on this?"

opinions all

his brows and said

Everyone fell silent immediately.

Eugene IV turned to Hepburn. "As the current Holy Maiden, you're the most qualified to give your opinion. Is it not an honor to become our Holy Maiden? Is it that shameful to the point that one would be

to her feet at once and replied respectfully, "Getting chosen as the Holy Maiden is something every female believer dreams of, and it's a great honor. How could it be shameful? I've never felt that way before. On the contrary, I'm proud

What she said also reflected the general opinion of the members of the

Mr. Cross so against it that he refuses to let his daughter take on the role and wants to come here

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