Her Graceful War Song by Summer's Blaze

Chapter 1202 Victoria had long since stepped back from the affairs of court, but her keen interest in the Gracewood Women's Academy was well-known. After all, it had been established under her direct instructions. "Could it be," Carissa asked, "that this trouble stems from rivalries among the students' families?" Jacob sighed heavily. "If that's the case, the possibilities are endless. But it's not impossible." He elaborated, "Many households appear harmonious on the surface, but in reality, it's just a facade. Especially in households with concubines-no matter how elevated their status, a concubine would always be subordinate to the main wife. Except, of course, when the husband's favor tips the scales. In such cases, the rivalry between wife and concubine becomes intense, and all sorts of underhanded tactics are used." Carissa nodded thoughtfully.

Jacob continued, "Imagine a scenawhere both the main wife and a favored concubine have daughters. The wife's daughter secures a spot at the Gracewood Women's Academy, but the concubine's daughter does not perhaps because the academy limits its enrollment. The concubine might harbor enough resentment to tarnish the main wife's daughter's reputation, even if it means dragging others into the mud along with her. "When someone's worldview is small, they fail to grasp the broader consequences of their actions. To them, it might all seem justified and done discreetly enough to avoid detection. After all, they've already gone as far as silencing people permanently." If that were the case, then the scope of the investigation would be too broad to cover.

Carissa rose from her chair and said, "We'll start by having the Royal Citadel investigate that foreman. Find out who he's been associating with and if he's worked for any particular family. After that, we'll decide what to do.

"As for public opinion, we should support Ms. Young. I'll change into formal attire and head to the palace to report to the queen dowager." She smiled bitterly. "And to offer an apology." Jacob nodded. "Alright." As Carissa prepared to leave, Helen stepped forward, her white fur-lined cloak glowing softly in the lamplight. The intricate gemstones adorning her headpiece caught the light, enhancing her regal beauty.

"I'll accompany you," Helen declared firmly. "Withby your side, my sister won't be too hard on you. Rest assured, I'll protect you." Carissa's heart swelled with gratitude as she looked at Helen, her voice sincere. "Thank you, Mother." When they arrived at the palace, Victoria had yet to hear of the incident. Carissa had barely begun her explanation when Helen interjected, "Please don't scold her too harshly. This wasn't her fault. Rafael's absence has left her distracted her thoughts are with him. It's only natural she might have overlooked something." Victoria had been poised to reprimand Carissa, but the words caught on the tip of her tongue after Helen spoke. She glanced at Helen, her expression gentle yet exasperated.

"Go and flaunt your charms to Lady Josephine. I'll have a word with Carissa myself." "Then don't scold her," Helen said. "Everyone has their moments of distraction, especially when matters of the heart are involved." Victoria was at a loss for words and waved her hand. "Go on now. Don't linger here." Helen curtsied gracefully. "Very well, I'll take my leave." Then, she turned and left with Gillian.

Carissa rose and bowed in respect, watching them leave. For a moment, she couldn't decide if Helen had vel cto help her or worsen her predicament. Still, Helen's lighthearted interruption had managed to lift the weight of the moment, even softening Victoria's previously severe demeanor.

Victoria asked, "Do you have any sense of who's behind this?" Carissa shook her head. "Your Majesty, I've failed to discern the culprit. For someone to act against the academy- an institution founded under your command-it would either require audacious impudence or sheer ignorance." Victoria's eyes darkened slightly, her tone carrying a chill. "Or perhaps arrogant foolishness." Carissa's brow furrowed. "You seem to have an idea, Your Majesty. Who do you suspect?" Victoria set her cup lid aside and gently blew across the surface of the steaming liquid.

"I have no specific suspects, but this matter has caused such a stir. The young lady from the Young family is so pitiful I wonder if she can bear the weight of those rumors." "Yes, I worry about her too," Carissa said, her voice filled with sorrow.

Victoria took a sip of coffee. Seeing Carissa's downcast expression, she smiled and asked, "What's this? You look like a withered plant, all drooping ΟΠ and lifeless. This isn't like you.

Haven't you ́always managed to get through even the toughest situations? If we can't find out the truth, then let's not focus on it for now. The fox will eventually reveal its tail. What matters now is doing everything we can to minimize the harm to the young lady from the Young family." "Yes, Your Majesty," Carissa replied. "Before coming here, I'd already instructed Jacob to begin that work." Victoria gave a satisfied nod. "Good. I will also see to it that gifts of commendation are sent to her-recognition for her courage and quick thinking in protecting the students."

The most vicious rumors were often directed at a woman's chastity. While Victoria's commendation wouldn't reverse the damage done, at least it would make those spreading rumors think twice before continuing.