The clubroom was unusually quiet as everyone watched the figure sitting by the window, playing the violin. The melancholic and lingering music filled the air, drawing everyone into its emotional embrace. As the sun gradually set in the distance, the world seemed to grow still and serene.
After finishing her performance, the girl opened her eyes, glanced at the quiet audience, and gently set the violin down, as if not wanting to disturb the peaceful atmosphere.
It took a while before everyone emerged from the lingering resonance of the music, and then they began to clap softly.
"I didn't expect it to sound so beautiful. Even I was moved," one of the members commented.
Though they weren't professionals, they could tell that this performance was far superior to the usual ones they had seen.
"Thank you," Thilan expressed her gratitude once more, then shifted the conversation to slowly divert everyone's attention.
After having dinner with the group, Thilan finally parted ways with them and returned to her residence.
Over the next two days, Li Xun and her team visited various places and activities within the academy, after which the accompanying designers began their work.
"We'll need to work in isolation for about two days. After that, we'll have some initial drafts for Thilan to review, and then we can discuss the direction for refinement," Li Xun explained.
After settling into the campus, the designers closed their doors and began their intense and passionate creative process. Judging by their confident demeanor, it seemed they already had some ideas in mind.
Three days later, Li Xun invited Thilan to lunch again and presented several clothing concepts and creative ideas.
"Since most of the students' activities at Edess Academy revolve around clubs, our designers have come up with a few designs based on the names and activities of the clubs," Li Xun said, as projections of the initial clothing designs appeared.
"First, this set is called 'Purple Breeze.' Its color palette is inspired by the purple of the Lantern Flowers cultivated by the Tikos Botanical Research Club. The main body of the outfit is a soft white (#e3f9fd), paired with deep purple (#8156) sleeves, collars, and floral accents. On the wide purple sleeves, white patterns outline the academy's iconic 'Arch Gate,' giving it a cultural touch while maintaining harmony and avoiding abruptness," she explained the design elements.
"Next is this set, 'Indigo Cape.' Its colors are inspired by the short capes worn by members of the Hat and Dagger club during their sword practice. The main body is also soft white (#e3f9fd), paired with indigo (#003371) sleeves, collars, and floral accents. The wide sleeves feature white patterns outlining the academy's 'Celestial Training Hall.' Compared to 'Purple Breeze,' the floral accents here have sharper edges, giving it a sense of impact and tension."
"The third set is 'Night Wanderer.' Its colors are inspired by the black tablecloths used by the 'Death Rose Club.' The main body is frost white (#e9f1f6), paired with raven black (#424c50) sleeves, collars, and floral accents. The wide black sleeves feature white patterns of skulls and roses. Compared to the other sets, this one exudes a more mysterious and deathly charm."
"The fourth set is 'Twilight Sonata.' Its colors are inspired by the evening glow outside the Twilight Ensemble club. The main body is moon white (#fffbf0), paired with khaki (#d3b17d) sleeves, collars, and floral accents. The wide sleeves feature white patterns of violins and ancient runes. This outfit has an understated, rustic beauty, showcasing the elegance of the violin and the intellectual allure of ancient symbols."
"The fifth set is 'Blazing Scarlet.' Its colors are inspired by the lipstick used by members of the Opera Fan Club. The main body is light pink (#fcefe8), paired with fiery red (#ff2d51) sleeves, collars, and floral accents. The flame-like sleeves feature patterns of blazing flowers, creating a stunning and breathtaking beauty."
"These are the initial five designs. If Thilan and the academy find them suitable, we can proceed with further refinement," Li Xun said, sending the drafts to Thilan.
"These... all seem really good," the girl murmured, her eyes blinking as she looked at the clothing designs displayed on her personal terminal.
As expected of the renowned brand 'Gothic Doll,' which is hugely popular among young girls, they quickly identified the elements that highlight the unique characteristics of each club.
After lunch, Thilan shared the design templates with her student council peers for discussion. After some deliberation, they agreed that the designs should emphasize the cultural elements of the academy. As a result, the sleeve patterns of the latter three sets should follow the first two, using the outlines of the academy's main buildings, with additional details like skulls, violins, and flames added as accents.
Over the next two days, the designers and the academy members continued to discuss and refine the designs, ultimately deciding to incorporate the architectural elements of 'Snow Ocean Hall,' 'Lattice Tower,' and 'Curtain Theater' into the patterns.
"Next comes the refinement process. We'll also start preparing a promotional video (PV) to showcase the unique features of each set," Li Xun said, raising a finger.
"There are already many mature ideas for this. For example, having members of the corresponding clubs wear these designs and showcase scenes from their activities, accompanied by music and some narration."
"However, casting is crucial. Since this PV is a collaboration with Edess Academy, I think it would be best to have Edess students wear the outfits and showcase them. We could even include the student's name and club in a corner of the video to add authenticity and emotional appeal."
"That does sound good..."
Thilan nodded slightly, but soon realized a potential issue. Who would be chosen as the models? She had a sinking feeling.
"Mhm, Thilan agrees, right? Actually, Thilan's temperament is perfect. I'd say she's the most suitable student I've seen at the academy for this role," Li Xun said, giving a thumbs-up.
“Uh, you haven't met that many students at the academy, have you? You've just been spending time with me these past few days, so of course you'd remember me,” Thilan thought to herself, silently grumbling.
"Being a model? But I don't have any experience," Thilan tried to find a way out.
"No problem! You just need to act naturally. No experience or acting skills are required!"
Li Xun, seeing that Thilan hadn't outright refused, became even more enthusiastic.
"Uh, alright," Thilan reluctantly nodded. It seemed there was no escaping this. She had a feeling that President Amorth had anticipated this from the start. That old fox had tricked her again.
"However, I'd like to participate in the scriptwriting for the PV. That way, I can make some adjustments based on my own and the club's characteristics," Thilan suggested.
Though she couldn't avoid being a model, she wasn't entirely without recourse.