Her Majestic Battle Cry

Jocelyn and the others‘ faces had become stiff from forced laughter. They had never been humiliated like this before. Being made to laugh for two whole hours by Mabel was an immense insult and a great source of shame for them.

They immediately went to report the incident to Catherine, who was known for being kind and gentle. She usually taught etiquette, bookkeeping, managing people, and overseeing the household. She hadn’t yet begun teaching anything more advanced, as she was considering the girls‘ backgrounds. Whether they married high or low, they would need to know how to manage a household.

Most of the girls had already learned the basics of etiquette, so Catherine only needed to guide them slightly to ensure they would behave properly when hosting guests or interacting with others. As for managing accounts, it was a woman’s essential skill and knowledge. After all, in this world, women still handled the household. Once they mastered these basics, they could learn more.

For women, it always took more effort to be heard by men. True equality in conversation was still out of reach.

It was Catherine’s way of teaching that led Jocelyn to believe she was part of a noble family, where class distinctions were clear. Servants–no matter whose household they served were always inferior. Jocelyn was certain that Catherine wouldn’t allow any maid to insult noble young ladies like them.

After listening patiently to Jocelyn’s complaint, Catherine’s warm smile slowly faded, her expression growing serious.

“So, you think the headmistress‘ punishment was wrong?” she asked.

Jocelyn paused, caught off guard by Catherine’s lack of support. Without thinking, she replied, “Lady Catherine, even the headmistress shouldn’t have been allowed to humiliate us like that.”

Catherine’s face hardened slightly. “Humiliate you? I see it as punishment. As students, you are expected to listen to your teachers. Lady Carissa is the headmistress of Gracewood Women’s Academy, and even we must listen to her.

“So, what were you laughing at? You disrespected her. Do you know what the penalty for disrespecting your teacher is? Go ask your grandfather, Lord Gerald. See if today’s punishment was too light or too harsh. The headmistress gave you a chance. Had the matter been in my hands, you’d be packing your bags and leaving the academy right now.‘

Catherine’s words were stern, offering no room for mercy. Whether someone was from the Quinton family or the Xavier family made no difference to her.

Jocelyn and the others were clearly intimidated They stood frozen, not daring to argue.

They had never encountered Catherine being this strict before. She exuded an air of dignity that was not to be challenged.

She continued with a sharp reprimand, “There’s one more thing. I’ve heard that you’ve been speaking ill of Ms. Young. I haven’t heard it with my own ears, so I won’t deal with it for now. But if I hear one word from your mouths, you’ll be leaving Gracewood Women’s Academy.

“As for whether Ms. Young will hold it against you, that’s not my concern. But let me warn you don’t mistake her youth for weakness. She is your teacher and your primary instructor; she has every right to punish you. If you don’t listen, she can even take it up with your families.

“This is the natural order of the world. If you’ve sworn to honor your teacher, then leave your pride at the door. Even the king respects the royal chancellor. If you don’t understand the most basic of manners, you might as well go home. Don’t embarrass yourselves and give your spot to someone who knows how to behave.”

Cassidy was clearly displeased and about to speak, but Jocelyn grabbed her sleeve, silencing her.

With great effort, she swallowed her frustration and said, “Yes, Lady Catherine, we understand. We were wrong. It won’t happen again.”

“It’s best that you know your mistake, or you’d bring so much shame that even the Quinton family’s good name wouldn’t be able to cover it.,” Catherine replied, raising her hand. “Now, go. Don’t be late for class tomorrow.” Content held by NôvelDrama.Org.

The group bowed and left.

Once outside, Cassidy scoffed. “We came here to be students, not servants. What’s the big deal? If they want to expel us, let them. I don’t even like studying. I’d rather be practicing martial arts.”

“Shut up,” Jocelyn snapped. “The queen dowager played a key role in founding Gracewood Women’s Academy. If we get expelled, what do you think that will do to our chances of marriage?”

Hailey didn’t dare to say anything when she heard that it would affect her marriage prospects. Like the others, she followed Jocelyn’s lead. Since she said it was not worth pursuing, Hailey didn’t want to make a fuss out of it.