章節 64: Manners Maketh Man
After lunch, Ranav returned to his room with the books Paramita had given him. Determined to finish them before his etiquette lesson, he said, "Jessica, please copy these books into the library. I want to read all three before the lesson begins."
"Sure, I'm taking over your body," Jessica replied. A moment later, she had scanned the books and stored them in the ring's library.
"Done. You can start reading now," she said.
Ranav sat on the bed and sent his consciousness into the ring. Once inside the library, he instructed, "Keep an eye on the door. If someone comes to fetch me, let me know."
"Understood," Jessica said.
Ranav picked up one of the etiquette books, sat down on the floor, and began reading. The first book detailed basic manners and the importance of social norms, while the second focused on dining etiquette. Time flew as he delved into the material, absorbing everything he could. While reading the third book, Jessica's voice interrupted his concentration.
"Paramita is knocking on your door. It seems time for your lesson."
Retracting his consciousness, Ranav stood and straightened his clothes. After a quick glance in the mirror, he opened the door.
"We need to go downstairs. Miss Etiquette is waiting for us in the meeting room," Paramita informed him.
"Alright, let's go."
They descended the stairs together. The meeting room was a side room Ranav hadn't entered before. Inside, he noticed a spacious area, rows of chairs, and a stage at the front. The stage held a large table and several luxurious chairs arranged neatly against the wall. To one side stood a podium.
Ranav's attention was drawn to a middle-aged woman standing confidently in the open space. Her impeccable attire and poised demeanor radiated authority. Paramita curtsied and greeted her. "Hello, Miss Etiquette."
The woman returned the curtsy. "Hello, Young Lady Rawat, and Young Master."
Ranav clasped his hands and bowed slightly. "Hello, Teacher."
The woman nodded approvingly. "Please follow me to the front. We'll hold today's class in a classroom setting."
Ranav and Paramita moved to the front row and sat down. The teacher ascended the stage, turned to face them, and introduced herself. "I am Baroness Seema Puri, your etiquette teacher for the next few days. You may call me 'Miss Etiquette,' as all my students do. I conducted lessons for Young Lady Rawat here, using a module called 'The Duchess Effect'. However, your module, Young Master, will be 'Act Like a Prince'."
She looked at Ranav and asked, "May I know your name?"
"I am Ranav Limbekai," he replied.
Miss Etiquette nodded. "Young Master Limbekai, your module will focus on preparing you to navigate the complexities of noble society and even the Royal Court. While the content differs slightly from what Young Lady Rawat learned, it's essential for both of you to pay close attention. This knowledge will help you distinguish true decorum from pretension. And Lady Rawat, it will also enable you to guide your peers and subordinates more effectively."
Ranav glanced at Paramita, who gave him a small smile, encouraging him to focus.
Miss Etiquette walked to the podium and began her lecture. "Forget everything you've previously learned about etiquette. Do not mix past lessons with mine. What I'll teach you is a comprehensive set of skills that will allow you to navigate effortlessly from small noble gatherings to the Royal Court of the Mayura Kingdom."
"The course is divided into nine categories: Meeting and Greeting, Conversation, Table Manners, Hospitality, Friends and Companions, Around the Ladies, Love and Marriage, Enemies and Conflict, and finally A Prince in the World."
Ranav felt a twinge of apprehension. This sounds a lot more detailed than I expected.
"Our first topic is Presentation and Manners," Miss Etiquette continued.
"Does dressing define one's identity? Absolutely. There's a saying: 'Dress how you want to be addressed.' The way you dress for events, social gatherings, or official functions determines how people perceive and approach you. First impressions are visual, so let your attire speak for you before your words or gestures do."
"Good posture conveys approachability and confidence. The best way to enter a room is with your shoulders back and down. Practice standing tall, pulling up at your waist, and maintaining eye contact for maximum impact."
She stepped off the podium and demonstrated a graceful walk across the room. "Lift your chin ever so slightly to exude confidence and friendliness. Imagine wearing a crown to keep your posture correct."
"For practice, try walking with books balanced on your head without letting them fall. This will improve both posture and balance."
Ranav glanced at Paramita, who raised an eyebrow at the suggestion. "Books on the head?" he thought. "That's going to be interesting."
"When greeting elders or those of higher social status, bow slightly with your hands pressed together, palms touching, fingers pointing upward, and thumbs close to your chest. For peers, friends, or those of similar status, a firm handshake is appropriate. A handshake should be eye-to-eye, firm, and limited to two shakes. This small gesture exudes professionalism and respect."
"Gentlemen must always remove their hats when greeting someone and take off their right glove before shaking hands. Hats should be removed upon entering a house but may remain for short carriage journeys."
"As for verbal greetings, a friendly 'Hello' or 'How do you do?' is sufficient for new acquaintances. Respond to the latter with a simple 'How do you do?' as well. Avoid insincere phrases like 'Delighted to meet you' if you don't genuinely feel that way. Remember, your face is a window to your soul, and your expressions can betray your true feelings."
She paused for emphasis. "Match your greeting to the time of day. A 'Good Morning' or 'Good Evening' adds a touch of elegance compared to a casual 'Hi.'"
"When introducing two or more people, always introduce the gentleman to the lady, the younger to the elder, and the subordinate to the superior. Never leave anyone out of a conversation when meeting someone new. Good manners are about inclusion, not exclusion."
Ranav shifted in his seat, intrigued by the distinctions of etiquette. He never realized there was so much to something as simple as a greeting.
Miss Etiquette continued, "Good behavior, respect, and politeness reflect one's character. Manners transcend wealth, status, and education. They show self-discipline, empathy, and consideration for others. A courteous person earns trust, respect, and goodwill, fostering harmonious relationships."
As she spoke, Ranav noticed her commanding presence. Every word carried weight, and her movements were precise, almost rehearsed.
"Lastly, remember the importance of parting well. A good farewell leaves a lasting impression. Be as cordial in saying goodbye as you were when saying hello."
She ended her lecture with a warm smile. "We'll practice these skills in the coming sessions. For now, consider this an overview."
After the lecture, Miss Etiquette instructed them to practice proper walking posture by balancing books on their heads. Ranav and Paramita exchanged hesitant glances but complied. Laughter broke the formal atmosphere as the books repeatedly fell to the ground during their first attempts.
"You'll improve with practice," Miss Etiquette said, her tone encouraging. "Etiquette isn't just about following rules; it's about presenting your best self to the world."
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