Here is a refined color palette that avoids pastel shades while still embodying the qualities of being educational, comforting, and authoritative:

json
{
  "palette_name": "Balanced Authority",
  "colors": [
    {
      "name": "Slate Blue",
      "hex_code": "
                            
                            #6A8EAE
                        "
    },
    {
      "name": "Olive Green",
      "hex_code": "
                            
                            #556B2F
                        "
    },
    {
      "name": "Warm Beige",
      "hex_code": "
                            
                            #D2B48C
                        "
    },
    {
      "name": "Muted Coral",
      "hex_code": "
                            
                            #C27BA0
                        "
    },
    {
      "name": "Charcoal Gray",
      "hex_code": "
                            
                            #36454F
                        "
    }
  ]
}

This palette incorporates more grounded and sophisticated colors that convey authority and warmth without the lightness of pastels. Would you like suggestions on how to implement this palette in your branding or design projects?