The Journey To An Unknown Destination 40 Strict Rules And Regulations

Everyone was admiring the beauty of the lobby, when someone from the reception tapped on the microphone and called out, "Attention everyone!" Silence spread among the crowd as they stopped chatting among themselves and diverted their attention to the person speaking at the reception counter. It turned out to be an elegant, young woman in her mid twenties, dressed in a formal grey suit with black heels. Her hair was carefully tied into a bun. She executed a mysterious and professional aura.

She continued in a dignified manner, "Welcome to the magnificent hostel of International Fashion Academy." Oh my goodness, this is a hostel...? Unbelievable! Linda thought in exhilaration. "My name is Daphne Brown and I am the custodian for watching over you all newbies here. As it is your first day here, I shall be going through the basic rules and regulations, so that you keep yourself out of trouble and have a good time. So everyone, please take a seat. It's going to be bit of a long lecture, and I'm well aware you must be exhausted from such a long trip, especially those, whose flights were delayed. But, I must stress on the fact that these regulations are highly important. Breaking any of these rules could result in punishment or even expulsion, depending on the severity of the situation."

She paused for a while, until everyone had settled down. "Okay, rule number one. At night, everyone must be in bed by 10 p.m. and should be in the restaurant near this lobby, to the left, by 7 a.m. in the morning." She stated as she pointed in the direction where the restaurant was situated. It too, was just as elegant and lavish as the rest of the lobby. "Secondly, you are not allowed to make any noise in the hallways or in the dormitories at any time of the day, strictly during the late hours, when you all will be resting. Thirdly, you are not allowed to roam around after 9 p.m., especially not outside the hostel. "

She paused for a moment, turning around to the receptionist as he told her something. She nodded and continued to tell the rules. "Then, fourthly, you are not allowed to leave the campus without permission from from me and the principal of IFA. But, don't worry, you all will be taken on regular trips around the city for work and recreational purposes. The fifth point I want you all to keep in your minds is that, you will not be given any access to Wi-Fi for the first week, until classes start and you have adjusted to your respective schedules.

Speaking of classes, I must inform you that the official lessons will start after a week. So you have plenty of time to adjust yourself and make new friends. I also advice you all to not even touch your phones as it is a source of distraction. We shall provide you with activities which will not only keep you busy but also prepare you for classes.

Thank you for listening to me patiently, every body. Now would you please assemble in straight lines near the counter so that we may assign you your rooms. Each room will have five students, so you can make groups of five of your choice and take your keys, and quietly head to your rooms. I must also alert you look after your dormitory keys. Losing them would be very problematic for you."

She finally stopped talking. It was weird for everyone that they were not, even for a second, bored by her lengthy speech and though it may seem strange, they to some extent enjoyed it. Such a character was rare among people, and every person present was impressed by her somber and straightforward demeanor. On the other hand, Linda felt as if it were forever. Moreover, she had a slightly uneasy feeling about the unyielding rules. No Wi-Fi?! She pondered over the statement in agony.

When they all had assembled and got hold of their respective keys, they started to disperse, some going upstairs while some went behind the marvelous staircase. Madison had insisted on sharing a room with Linda and she happily agreed. Madison introduced Linda to her two other friends and a distant cousin, who agreed to be in the same dormitory as them. So in total they were now five.

"Wow, Madison, you came along with your friends and a cousin, you must not be feeling lonely, right?" Linda asked in praise. "Uh-huh! You are totally right, I feel just at home already! I might even know how things work in here because my eldest sister graduated from here, and she would tell me everything about it!" Madison smiled and declared proudly.

Linda lowered her head, and missed Emily so much. She would not be able to contact her for a long time. She sighed. "You okay Linda?" Madison asked curiously. "Uh... Kinda, I just miss my best friend." Linda answered sadly. "Ahaha! What's the big deal? Just relax and enjoy the ride!" She threw her arm around Linda and tried to cheer her up.

She forced a smile, and even faked a laugh, but inside, she felt so lonely, and empty.

Chapter end