Her Graceful War Song novel Chapter 1226

"Kylie wasn't always this foolish," Victoria remarked as she rose from the dining table, moving to the carved cherrywood armchair. She was pleasantly full, and the chair's firm support felt just right.

"She used to be quite clever. When a clever person suddenly becomes foolish, it's often because they're too entangled in their own schemes. They can't see past their own interests. And for those interests, they think any sacrifice is justified, no matter who pays the price."

"Mom, your words are absolutely correct," Salvador agreed, nodding.

Victoria gestured for him to sit and then asked, "What are your thoughts on the current admissions policy for the women's academy?"

Salvador replied thoughtfully, "I think it's a good idea. It gives the common folk the impression that they aren't so far removed from the nobility. It might even ease some of the discontent among them."

He naturally spoke with the broader picture in mind. As for whether it offered women a chance to broaden their horizons, he cared little for such details.

"And do you believe the scholars from everywhere will rise in protest because of this?" she pressed.

Salvador chuckled. "Why would they? Some scholars don't take it seriously and look down on it, thinking women aren't smart enough and that the women's academy is just a joke. Others believe women are capable of learning and understanding. Those scholars tend to be broader-minded and might even support such efforts.

"But the most crucial point is this—women aren't allowed to take the national examinations. So, they pose no threat to the scholars' ambitions. Besides, if any scholar causes a ruckus, they risk losing their own eligibility to sit for the exams. Apart from a few bitter cynics, who would gamble their future over this?"

Victoria let out a soft laugh. "Such simple reasoning. How could Kylie fail to grasp it? The excuses she gave me earlier were clearly meant to deceive, as though I'm some fool easily placated by hollow words."

Salvador's expression grew serious. Victoria rarely showed such disdain for someone, especially Kylie. She usually afforded her some measure of respect, at least outwardly.

Kylie had meddled with Gracewood Women's Academy and had ruined the reputation of others. Salvador knew that Victoria wasn't happy that Kylie had gotten away with only being under house arrest. She had been looking for a reason to punish Kylie further, and the latter had practically handed her the perfect opportunity.

"The Quinton family is large and well-established, with deep, far-reaching connections," Victoria continued, her voice calm but firm. "That gives Kylie her confidence. I won't interfere in other matters, but there are two matters she must never touch: the foundation of the kingdom, and the women's academy and workshop. She mustn't interfere with either of them, not by so much as a hair."