The Crestwood Academy

Chapter 3: Shadows of Suspicion

As Nooram and Motha approach the area leading to the fourth floor, they unexpectedly run into Tr Joseph, a teacher known for his forgetfulness and absent-mindedness. Tr Joseph, lost in his own thoughts, fails to recognize the students initially.

Nooram and Motha exchange amused glances, realizing the opportunity for a funny interaction. Motha steps forward, trying to get Tr Joseph's attention. "Excuse me, Tr Joseph. We were just wondering if you see our friend, Rashid. We hear he might be here somewhere."

Tr Joseph's eyes wander aimlessly before he finally focuses on Motha and Nooram. He squint at them, trying to remember their names. "Ah, yes! Nooram and... Moti, right?"

"No, it's Motha," Motha correct him, struggling to stifle a laugh.

Tr Joseph scratches his head, a perplexed expression on his face. "Motha, Motha... You sure? Well, never mind that. Rashid, you say? I not see him."

"Yes, Tr Joseph, we actually looking for clues about fourth floor. You remember anything about it?" Nooram asks, a mischievous glint in his eyes.

Tr Joseph's face brighten as he goes into a rambling monologue. "Ah, the fourth floor! It like labyrinth of secrets. Some say it haunted, others say it where lost socks go. I once get lost up there myself and end up in janitor's closet. Quite adventure!"

Nooram and Motha try their best to suppress their laughter, intrigued by Tr Joseph's unexpected revelations about the fourth floor. They exchange silent agreement to investigate further while keep Tr Joseph's condition in mind.

As Nooram and Motha engage in their conversation with Tr Joseph, a seemingly innocent interaction takes an unexpected turn. Nooram, in his usual cheerful manner, notices a Crestwood Academy flag hanging on the wall and decides to give it a playful wave. He approaches Tr Joseph with a mischievous smile. "Hey, Tr Joseph, check out this awesome flag! Look at me go!"

Tr Joseph's eyes widen, and his face turns red with anger. He takes a step back, clearly offended by Nooram's action. "How you do dis?! Dat flag represent honor and pride of Crestwood Academy! It no plaything! You have no respect for our school?"

Nooram, taken aback by Tr Joseph's strong reaction, quickly realizes his mistake and tries to defuse the situation. "I-I didn't mean any disrespect, Tr Joseph. I just wanted to have some fun. I sorry if I make mistake. I didn't know it so important."

Tr Joseph crosses his arms and huffs indignantly. "Apologies no change what you do! Flag mean someting. It mean values and tradition of our academy. You need know better dan play with it. Go to dormitory now and tink about what you do!"

Nooram, feeling bewildered and remorseful, retreats without further protest. Motha, witnessing the incident, catches up with Nooram and whispers, "That was unexpected, Nooram. Tr Joseph must have strong feelings for school's symbols. We give him space for now."

Nooram nods, still surprised by the encounter. "You're right, Motha. I didn't realize how important it is to him. I should be more careful in the future."