preparations

The day after their arrival at the castle, the Pattons were scheduled to attend a grand gathering,there they would under go lessons but their ladies, mother's . In preparation for the event, they were to receive a series of lectures from the governess on castle courtesies and etiquette.

Mrs. Patton, Olivia, and Drae gathered in the grand hall taken by a small carriage since it was a long walk and a bulky wear, dressed in their finest attire, as the governess, Lady Victoria, stood before them. Lady Victoria was a stern-looking woman with a no-nonsense attitude, known for her expertise in etiquette and courtly manners.

Welcome ladies, Lady Victoria said, her voice firm but polite. Today, we will be discussing the finer points of castle courtesies and etiquette. It is essential that you conduct yourselves with dignity and poise, as you will be representing your families and social standing.

Mrs. Patton nodded, her eyes fixed intently on Lady Victoria. Olivia very enthusiastic and Drae, however, seemed less enthused, exchanging glances and the stifling giggles of others brought a little shyness to Drae but Olivia shoulders held high.

Lady Victoria began her lecture, covering topics such as table manners, formal introductions, and proper behavior in the presence of nobility. Mrs. Patton listened attentively, her posture straight and her demeanor composed as the practices with a plate of a single grape and another an egg.

As the lecture progressed, Drae grew increasingly restless, fidgeting in her seat and whispering to Olivia. Lady Victoria's eyes narrowed, her expression disapproving.

Drae, please pay attention, Lady Victoria said, her voice firm. This is not a trivial matter. Your behavior reflects not only on yourself but also on your family.

Drae looked down, her face flushing with embarrassment. Olivia, on the other hand, seemed to be absorbing every word, her eyes shining with interest.

When the lecture concluded, Lady Victoria turned to Mrs. Patton. Lady Patton, I must speak with you about your daughter Drae's courtesy and as a highborn, her behavior is expected to be exemplary, as you are representing your family's legacy, do not forget your roots Lady Lydia.

Mrs. Patton nodded, her expression serene. Of course, Lady Victoria. I appreciate your guidance.

As the ladies dispersed, Olivia approached Mrs. Patton. Mother, I'm so glad I'm not the only one who isn't a highborn lady attending the gathering, she said, smiling.

Mrs. Patton's expression faltered for a moment, a hint of something unspoken passing across her face. But she quickly recovered, smiling warmly at Olivia.

You're doing wonderful my dear. Your natural charm and kindness will shine through, regardless of your background.

Meanwhile, Drae was struggling to master the intricacies of etiquette. As she practiced her curtsies and formal greetings, she stumbled and tripped, earning mocking glances from the other ladies and nobility.

One of the ladies a haughty young woman named Lady Catherine, couldn't resist teasing Drae.

Oh, dear Drae, you're so...unladylike, Lady Catherine said, her voice dripping with sarcasm. Perhaps you should stick to more... rustic pursuits?

Drae's face reddened with embarrassment, but she refused to back down. I'd rather be myself, thank you, she said, her voice firm.

Lady Catherine raised an eyebrow. How...refreshing. Though I'm not sure it will serve you well in society.

As the day drew to a close, the Pattons gathered in their quarters, preparing for the grand gathering the next day. Olivia was beaming with confidence, having mastered the etiquette lessons.

I think I'm going to do wonderfully tomorrow, Olivia said, smiling. I'm so excited to meet all the nobility and make a good impression.

Mrs. Patton smiled, her eyes warm with pride. You'll do wonderfully, dear. You're a natural.

Drae, on the other hand, looked less confident and even as all those never interested her but in the gaze of many she coiled. I don't know if I can do this, Mother, she said, her voice uncertain. "I'm just not cut out for this sort of thing, what about sparring.

Mrs. Patton's expression softened. Nonsense, dear. You'll do fine. Just be yourself and enjoy the evening, don't forget you did excellent in the history test.

As they retired for the night, Mrs. Patton couldn't help but feel a sense of unease. She knew that the grand gathering would be a test of their social standing and etiquette, and she hoped that her family would rise to the challenge.

The next day would bring its own set of challenges and opportunities. The Pattons would need to navigate the complexities of courtly life, all while maintaining their dignity and composure. Mrs. Patton smiled to herself, feeling a sense of determination a feel to climb back the ladder she once had

She would ensure that her family made a good impression, no matter what the future held and hold herself gunned to the opportunity