The Lady Nun Vows Revenge - Chapter 22: Chapter 22

She gazed at the small orchid, her eyes unfocused. The plant was so well cared for, clearly a result of meticulous attention.
Eliza noticed that even the other orchids in the small courtyard couldn't compare to this one.
'Why would Mother Mary plant so many orchids, yet choose the one she took the most care with to give to me?' she wondered. 'Is it just because she loves orchids, or is there something else...
'Could it have something to do with my mother?'
The thought suddenly hit her, and she was surprised by the idea. She felt a deep urge to figure out what the connection between the Reverend and her mother was, and what had really happened all those years ago.
Clenching her teeth, Eliza called out to James ahead, "Lord Gray, stop the carriage."
Without hesitation, the carriage slowed and came to a stop at the foot of Mount Westin.
Eliza, still holding the orchid, got out of the carriage again.
She looked up at the winding road ahead, stretching all the way up to the clouds.
"Lady Eliza, have you left something behind at the Nunnery?" James asked, clearly confused.
Eliza shook her head. "No, it's not that. I just want to try one last time."
No matter what Mary's reasons were, no matter how close she might have been to her mother, Eliza's determination to break free from the Stonor family was unshakable—even if it meant risking her life.
"Lord Gray, would you mind holding the orchid for me while I go? Please wait here for my return." She handed the orchid to him with a smile that could light up the room. "This time, I'm sure I'll make the Reverend agree."
At first, James didn't quite understand her intentions. He was about to voice his concerns when he saw Eliza turn toward the Nunnery perched atop Mount Westin.
Her delicate frame bent with grace, lowering itself in a reverent gesture before the mountain.
James froze, watching in astonishment as she bowed deeply, then stood, took a step, and bowed once more.
He said hastily, "Lady Eliza, what... what are you doing? How long do you plan on continuing this? The mountain is so steep; how could you possibly bear such a trial? Allow me to have someone escort you halfway up—"
Eliza did not turn around. Her voice, calm and unwavering, reached him with quiet determination. "There is no need to worry. I can endure this."
She added with even greater resolve, "If the Reverend does not grant her approval, it is because I have not shown enough sincerity. I shall prove it through my actions and make my intentions known."
Her purpose was steadfast.
And so, Eliza continued her ascent, each step deliberate and each bow a humble offering, as she made her way up the mountain with an unwavering devotion.
By now, the sun had fully risen, and people began their pilgrimage up to the Nunnery for prayers.
Among them were common folk making the climb on foot, alongside nobles arriving in carriages.
When they saw Eliza bowing by the side of the road, their gazes were inevitably drawn to her.
Those who did not recognize her merely cast curious glances. But others, upon recognizing her face, immediately knew who she was.
"Isn't that Lady Eliza from the Duke's estate?"
"What is she doing?"
"She seems to be ascending the mountain with such... reverence?"
"Has she lost her senses? If she continues like this, her body will not withstand the strain. What could possibly drive her to such lengths?"
The onlookers were, for the most part, shocked by her actions.
At that moment, a voice sneered in disdain. "What is she seeking? I wager she's merely putting on a show, trying to garner pity from us with this display of suffering."