Her Graceful War Song novel Chapter 1200

The remaining men were trembling with fear, scrambling in panic. Especially Hank, the one who had harassed Rosalind—he was sobbing uncontrollably. Dragging his broken legs, he knelt on the ground as if he didn't even feel the pain, repeatedly pleading with Carissa and Anthony.

"I was wrong! I was greedy, but I won't ever do it again! Please spare me, my lord! I have an elderly parent who's ill and a newborn daughter at home. If I'm locked up, what will happen to my family?"

His cries were piercing and filled with despair.

However, Anthony didn't waver and firmly ordered, "Take them away!"

People who did bad things might have tragic backstories, but that was no excuse for breaking the law.

Those who worked in law enforcement saw this kind of thing all the time, but in the end, the law was the law.

As the culprits were dragged away, the academy fell into a heavy silence. The oppressive stillness blanketed the room as the women gathered in the hall, each caught in her own thoughts.

Claire added more coal to the brazier to warm up the room, as Rosalind's trembling shoulders showed no signs of easing.

Present in the room were Catherine, Harriet, Athena, Rosalind, and Carissa, who held the honorary position of headmistress. Claire, serving as a temporary guard, stood near the door. A few older maids, servants, and the cook—who had all been in the rear courtyard during the commotion—remained away from the central gathering.

At Carissa's instruction, Claire went to speak to the staff, firmly instructing them to keep their lips sealed about the incident. While it was impossible to contain the news entirely, Carissa wanted to ensure it didn't spread unnecessarily from within the academy walls.

Carissa herself took a deep breath, pulling herself from her guilt-stricken thoughts. Lingering in remorse wouldn't solve the problems at hand. The situation involved not just the academy but also the daughters of noble and official families. The academy owed their families a proper explanation.

Rosalind, the sole victim in this tragedy, hadn't excused herself to rest. She remained seated with the others, determined to help devise a solution with everyone else.

Carissa's initial plan had been to send the others home while she returned to her estate to consult with Jacob. She wanted his advice on how to navigate the fallout, and how to minimize the damage to the academy's reputation.

Carissa took it upon herself to escort Rosalind home, knowing she needed to report this matter personally to Trevor.

By the time they arrived at the Young family's residence, Highstone Estate, word had already reached him. After he finished listening, he laughed heartily.

"My granddaughter is truly brave and resolute! She's done well—exceptionally well!"

Carissa knew Trevor valued his reputation highly. She thought he would be furious and heartbroken over Rosalind being assaulted, so she planned to explain and apologize. However, he seemed so carefree, as if he didn't take it seriously at all.

For a moment, Carissa almost believed him.

That was, until she noticed the subtle redness in his eyes as he looked at Rosalind. It was clear Trevor truly cared for his beloved granddaughter, and he wasn't as indifferent as he appeared.