Cruc1al

The story begins at a strict, elite school where everything is measured with precision and discipline. Students from the elite of society, tight-knit systems, and a student council that manages the scene with almost military-like discipline.
The council president, Yukiha Kurosawa, is a strict, brilliant student who bears the burden of responsibilities without complaint... but behind her eyes lurks a calmness that is not easily understood.
As for Suhara Akima, a silent student with an indifferent gaze, he is forced to join the council by Misaki Shido, a sharp, mysterious teacher whose decisions are not questioned.

Order B-5

The sound of the lock opening echoed in the silent archive. Sohara slowly took out the key, then looked at Yukiha. She didn't say anything, but gave a small nod.

Takeru Shoji, who had been watching the scene with a slight smile, leaned against the open door and took a quick glance down the corridor.

"Well, there's no one here." He said in a low voice. "Perfect time to get out before someone decides this place deserves a tour."

Yukiha moved first, and Sohara followed, his hand still in his pocket as usual.

The corridor was empty, the dim lights casting long shadows on the shiny floor. The atmosphere was quiet... too quiet.

Shoji quietly closed the door behind them, then leaned toward Sohara. "I have a question."

"Of course you do." Sohara replied without turning around.

"Why were you looking through the archives?"

"We weren't looking for anything in particular." Yukiha said, pacing back and forth. "But the way we were prevented from entering made us suspect there was something worth looking for."

Shoji smiled. "Sometimes, just asking about something makes you look like you know more than you should."

"Wise advice." Sohara said in a sarcastic tone. "Shall I write it down in my journal?"

Shoji chuckled lightly, but made no comment.

The corridor leading to the meeting room - 6:30 PM :

As they approach the corner leading to the hall, the three of them suddenly stop.

A light sound... as if someone was moving slowly.

Yukiha put her hand on the wall, signaling the others to stop. Sohara tilted his head slightly, listening.

"Light footsteps, one person." He muttered in a low voice. "But it's not far."

Shoji slowly pulled out his phone. "He's walking very slowly... like he's looking for something."

"A slight click."

Like someone had touched a doorknob.

Yukiha exchanged a quick glance with Sohara. No one from the school staff should be here at this time. Most meetings ended an hour ago.

Then, without warning, a soft but clear voice sounded:

"...Kurasawa?"

Yukiha froze. Even in the dim lighting, her eyes could be seen narrowing.

Shoji whispered quickly: "Who is that?"

Sohara, who had been watching her reaction, slowly turned toward the corridor, looking toward the stretching shadows.

Then, with one step forward, he finally spoke.

Act VI - Voices in the Corridors: