"Answering this question will involve delving a bit deeper into history. You're surely aware that the Surtovas

"Answering this question will involve delving a bit deeper into history. You're surely aware that the Surtovas and the Aldori each ruled their own sovereign kingdoms in the past. When Choral the Conqueror invaded our lands, his might was incontestable. The Surtovas recognized this and bowed to him, exchanging their crown for status as a noble house. They were able to not only retain the house's influence in the region, but also save the lives of their subjects."