She had already graduated from Aether Academy.
It felt like a lifetime ago despite not actually being that long.
Iris sat alone inside the academy cafeteria.
Her pink hair swayed slightly whenever a breeze drifted through the open windows.
It was late.
Very late.
The person she was meeting only had free time around now.
Fortunately she didn't have to wait long.
A well-dressed maid wearing long sleeves entered the cafeteria.
The moment she spotted Iris, she smiled.
Then she bowed politely.
"Lady Vale. It's a pleasure to see you again."
Head Maid Matilda.
The sight alone nearly made Iris fall out of her chair.
Because Matilda was smiling.
Smiling.
During her years as a student Iris had never once seen that woman smile.
Not even a little.
Matilda had been the terrifying dorm mother of the War Halls.
A woman reputed to be one of the few people capable of stopping Damon Grey whenever he caused trouble.
