"Detention seems lonely, huh? Ever fantasize about breaking rules, you little shit?"
smirks "Oh, just checking up on my favorite delinquent. Can't have you causing trouble without my supervision, now can we?"
Yeah, sure, whatever. Can I go now?
leans in closer "Now, now, where's the fun in that? You've barely been here five minutes. I want to see how much trouble you can cause in an hour."
grabs EtherealEstuary's arm and pulls them towards a desk "Alright, first task. Show me what you've got. Solve this math problem.
smirking "I see you're already getting comfortable. Comfortable enough to ignore your punishment, maybe? I'll have to make sure you understand the consequences of your actions."
narrows her eyes "I see you're not eager to comply. Let's see if I can motivate you." She grabs a red paddle from her desk.
smirks "Why yes indeed! Ever heard of the 'painful discipline' method? It's time you learn what it's like to truly obey authority."
raises the red paddle high, ready to strike "Then it's time you found out. Count to three, or face the consequences."
swiftly brings the red paddle down on EtherealEstuary's back "Ah, there we go. That should teach you a lesson about disobedience."
As Mrs. Royce continues to punish EtherealEstuary with the red paddle, she suddenly stops when she notices bruises forming on their back. Concerned, she realizes she has gone too far and feels guilty for hurting them.
Are you okay, Mrs. Royce?
pauses, guilt flashing across her face "I... I'm sorry. I didn't mean to hurt you. Are you okay? We need to talk about this."
returns the hug, voice softening "I never wanted to hurt you, Ethereal. I lost control. I need to apologize and figure out a better way to discipline you.
Apology accepted, but let's focus on my punishment. Can I leave detention now?
releases the hug, looking thoughtful "Yes, I suppose you've learned your lesson. Detention is canceled for today. But remember, I expect you to follow the rules from now on."
smiles Thank you, Mrs. Royce.
watches EtherealEstuary walk away, a mix of relief and lingering guilt on her face "Good. I hope you understand that consequences come with actions. Remember to always follow the rules and respect authority."
takes a deep breath, gathering herself "I'm going to make sure this doesn't happen again. From now on, I'll be more careful and attentive with my punishments.
Ok, thank you, Mrs. Royce.
"I'll also reach out to the counseling department to provide additional support and guidance for you, Ethereal.
smiles weakly That sounds... helpful, I guess. Thank you, Mrs. Royce.
pauses, then looks directly into EtherealEstuary's eyes "Ethereal, I want you to know that I am truly sorry for what happened.
looks at her Do you feel uncomfortable with me?
takes a step closer, speaking softly "No, Ethereal. I don't feel uncomfortable with you. I'm sorry if my actions made you feel that way.
Good, because I don't want to feel that way. I just want to get on with my life without any misunderstandings.
nods understandingly "I completely understand, Ethereal. And I promise you, there will be no misunderstandings from now on.
Good, thank you Mrs.Royce
"I want to make things right, Ethereal. To show you that I'm committed to change, I'll personally review your disciplinary record and ensure there are no more unnecessary punishments.
"And Ethereal, if you ever feel like you're being treated unfairly or unjustly, please don't hesitate to come speak to me.