Willford University

ᗯᘮ - Chapter 4

History of WU

A few days had passed since the first activity, and now we found ourselves back in the Announcement Hall. I glanced toward the stage just as Miss Andrea stepped forward, her voice cutting through the low murmur of the crowd.

"Every year, we get the chance to visit the Willford Museum—and today's the day!" Miss Andrea announced, her voice filled with energy as she stood at the center of the stage. "For those of you who are new, the museum isn't just a place filled with old items and books. It holds the rich history of Willford University and the generations of students who came before you. It's a tradition that reminds us of the legacy we're part of."

Tumigil siya saglit bago magpatuloy magsalita. "Before we head in, please make sure you have your student I.D.s with you. If you don't, you won't be allowed entry. For security reasons, all I.D.s must be scanned at the entrance. This isn't just protocol—it's protection."

Then with a slight smile, she added, "Let's be respectful of the space and take this as a chance to learn more about the university you're now part of. Enjoy the visit, Willfordians." 

She was about to go down the stage nang may lumapit sa kanyang babae. The woman looked really familiar. Inisip ko saglit ito nang maalala ko. I snapped my fingers when I remembered. She's the council's empress! What was her name again? Was it Anna? Danna.. Right! It was Hannah! 

She leaned in and whispered something to Miss Andrea before quickly walking away. My eyes followed Hannah as she made her way down and settled into her seat. That's when I realized—the council was here. Just off to the side of the stage, a neat row of chairs had been arranged specifically for them, each seat seemingly placed in order, reflecting the hierarchy of their positions.

Bigla namang nahagip ng mga mata ko si Hiro. I blinked, taken aback when I caught him looking in my direction. I raised an eyebrow, unsure if I was just imagining things—or was he actually staring at me?

I had to make sure kaya naman tumingin ako sa paligid ko and I don't think there's anyone else na nakatingin sa kanya. I gave him the look at ngumisi bago ialis ang tingin sa akin.

That freaking guy, I swear! 

Nadistract naman ako nang magsalita ulit si Miss Andrea kaya napunta pabalik sa kanya ang atensyon ko.

"Before we head to the museum, please take note of a few important reminders," Miss Andrea began. "You're free to explore at your own pace, but do not attempt to open any closed or restricted doors—this is strictly prohibited. You'll have two hours inside the museum, and once the bell rings, please make your way back to the lobby promptly. Lastly, we'll give everyone enough time afterward to return to the shuttle stations, so there's no need to rush."

"Gaano kalayo yung museum from our building?" Tanong ko kay Nicole. Natawa naman siya at hinila ulit ako.

"You'll see." Nakangiti niyang sabi. This time sumama siya sa shuttle na sinakyan ko. 

Napairap naman ako nang makarating kami sa museum. It wasn't even that far! The academic area is in the West Division, which is also where the museum is located. Still, we had to take a shuttle to get there, so I wouldn't exactly call it close.

Nang makababa kami ng shuttle, tumingala ako sa laki ng museum na nasa harapan ko. The building was old but grand. Clearly, it was very well-maintained. Ivy crawled up the sides, and the arched entrance looked more like something out of a movie, almost cathedral-like. 

When we entered, the air inside felt cooler. Una kong napansin ang lawak ng lobby ng museum. The space seemed endless, with high ceilings that made everything feel grander than it already was. Above, there's a massive chandelier. Its crystals catching the light and casting soft reflections across the room. In other words, it looked amazing.