Chapter 1221

At Serenity Palace, Victoria listened to a report from Ruth's chamberlain, Oscar. Afterward, she sighed softly.

“I understand. Have the royal physicians do everything they can. Use the best available herbs.”

“Yes, Your Majesty!” Oscar replied, his eyes red-rimmed. “Thank you, Your Majesty.”

“Why was this not reported to the Queen?” Victoria asked calmly.

Oscar explained, “I already reported it. The Queen said it’s a natural part of aging and that it was bound to happen. She sent food and told Lady Ruth not to worry, that everything would be taken care of. I didn’t dare repeat this directly to Her Grace.”

Victoria frowned slightly. “I see. There’s no need to mention it. What needs to be done will be done. But for now, we must do all we can to provide treatment.”

Oscar’s voice was hoarse. “With Your Majesty’s words, I am at ease. With the royal physicians attending her, at least Lady Ruth will be more comfortable.”

“Go now. I will visit her later myself,” Victoria instructed.

Oscar, deeply moved, bowed before leaving.

“Keith,” Victoria called, her tone tinged with mild anger. “Go to the Royal Medical Department and inquire whether the Queen has refused the physicians from attending to Ruth.”

Keith acknowledged the order and was departing when Kylie arrived. Turning back, he glanced at Victoria, who nodded, signaling him to continue his task. He hastily left.

Kylie entered, accompanied by Lydia. She curtsied respectfully. “Greetings, Your Majesty. May you be in good health and peace.”

Victoria nodded. “No need for formalities. Have you come with matters to discuss?”

Kylie smiled. “Mother, are you saying I wouldn’t greet you without reason?”

Victoria had refreshments brought. “It’s rare to see such devotion, Kylie. I heard you’ve been unwell. Are you feeling better?”

Though Kylie had been under house arrest, officially it was illness. Victoria offered a semblance of grace.

“I’m fully recovered, thanks to your grace and blessings, Mother.”

“Good. The weather is cold. Now that you’re well, rest more. Don’t expose yourself to the wind.”

Kylie gave a small, embarrassed laugh. “Of course.”

Such casual words often made Kylie overthink. Victoria rarely spoke sharply, but her gentle words often hinted at hidden meanings, apparent only upon careful consideration. The more Kylie pondered, the less certain she became of their true intent. Victoria’s suggestion to rest, for example, seemed caring, yet Victoria knew Kylie’s confinement wasn't due to illness. The words either held a hidden meaning or were a convenient excuse. Kylie felt an uncomfortable pressure, like a thorn lodged in her throat.

After further pleasantries, Kylie steered the conversation to the Gracewood Women’s Academy.

“When they first entered the palace, I gently encouraged them to send their daughters back to the academy. Studying and becoming well-educated—surely nothing is more important?”

Victoria nodded slightly. “You’re right, and your counsel was wise.”

Kylie glanced at her. Seeing no change in Victoria’s expression, she cautiously ventured, “I heard the Gracewood Women’s Academy plans to accept students from merchant families and commoners. Has Carissa mentioned this to you?”

Victoria replied calmly, “I am unaware of this matter. What is your opinion?”

Kylie expected a rebuke, but instead, Victoria’s calmness was unexpected. She considered it a joke, but Victoria’s neutral demeanor made a response difficult.

“Well?” Victoria repeated, resting her elbow on the armrest. “What do you think?”

Kylie gritted her teeth. “I believe…it is not quite appropriate.”

“Not appropriate in what way?” Victoria’s gentle tone urged further explanation.

Kylie felt relief and sat straighter.

“Historically, true academies only admitted men. Men study to serve the court, state, and people. The national examinations are the hope of many scholars. Some families sacrifice everything to educate a son, showing education’s value.

“If academies like Gracewood lower tuition, education loses prestige. Everyone will think it’s something anyone can do, even women. That would cause chaos.

“Furthermore, common women are often rough in temperament and unwilling to follow proper conduct. Many even look down on scholars. Accepting them as students risks scandals and unruly behavior.”