Legacy of Halide Academy: Unveiling Dreams and Mysteries

𝓒𝓱𝓪𝓹𝓽𝓮𝓻 4: 𝓣𝓱𝓮 𝓕𝓲𝓻𝓼𝓽 𝓓𝓪𝔂 𝓤𝓷𝓻𝓪𝓿𝓮𝓵𝓮𝓭

The soft chime of the classroom bell marked the end of the lesson, dispersing the students into a symphony of rustling papers and shuffling feet. Iris stirred from her brief slumber, her eyes fluttering open as she returned to the realm of wakefulness. Her surroundings shifted from the dreamy garden back to the familiar classroom.

Keith, ever watchful, noticed her awakening and offered a gentle smile. "Good afternoon, My Lady. How was your rest?"

Iris yawned, stretching her arms languidly. "Afternoon, Keith. It was nice, thank you." She glanced around, realizing that the classroom was now emptying. "Looks like class is over. Did I miss anything important?"

Keith collected the completed task sheets and neatly arranged them before replying. "Not at all, Miss Iris. Sir Anthony simply concluded the lesson. It seems we have a bit of free time before our next class."

Iris pushed back her chair and stood, feeling reenergized after her catnap. "Perfect! I could use a break." She stretched once more, her muscles protesting the hours spent hunched over her work.

As they exited the classroom, Iris and Keith were greeted by the bustling energy of the school's corridors. Students filled the halls, engaged in animated conversations about the day's events and the mysteries that still surrounded the academy.

Iris couldn't help but overhear snippets of conversation as they made their way through the crowd. Some students were discussing the various clubs they were considering joining, while others were speculating about the elusive test and the enigmatic Student Council selection process.

"Have you heard about the test for the Student Council?" one student whispered to another, their voices tinged with curiosity.

"I heard it's not just a written test. There are practical challenges involved," the second student replied, eyes wide with intrigue.

Iris exchanged a knowing glance with Keith as they navigated the lively corridor. It seemed that the rumors and speculations about the test had taken on a life of their own.

Their leisurely stroll eventually led them to the academy's courtyard, a picturesque oasis of greenery and tranquility. The scent of blooming flowers filled the air, and a gentle breeze rustled the leaves of the trees.

Iris found an inviting bench beneath the shade of a sprawling cherry blossom tree and settled onto it, enjoying the serenity of the moment. Keith stood nearby, ever attentive.

She gazed up at the cherry blossoms, their delicate petals swaying in the breeze. "Keith, do you think we'll ever find out more about this test? It's been on my mind ever since Sir Anthony mentioned it."

Keith joined her, his expression thoughtful. "I believe that, in time, the nature of the test will become clear, Miss Iris. For now, it appears to be a well-guarded secret of the academy."

Iris sighed, her fingers idly tracing the edge of the bench. "I suppose patience has never been my strong suit."

A soft chuckle escaped Keith's lips. "Indeed, you've always been one to seek answers quickly. But sometimes, Miss Iris, the journey to uncovering the truth can be just as rewarding as the truth itself."

Iris glanced at her butler, a hint of amusement in her eyes. "You're right, Keith. I'll try to be patient."

Their tranquil moment was interrupted by the approach of another student, a boy with tousled brown hair and an air of curiosity. He seemed slightly flustered as he approached them.

"Excuse me," the boy began, addressing Iris and Keith, "I couldn't help but overhear your conversation. Are you talking about the Student Council test?"