KiyotakaxOC- A New Life In Classroom Of The Elite: Ayaki 's Quest For Change

Chapter 23- Ryuen

Ayaki walked through the hallways, her footsteps echoing slightly on the cold academy floor. Today was an important day: Sudo was going to be judged for the fight that had caused quite a stir at school. She already knew, thanks to the events of the Light Novels, that Ayanokoji and Horikita were involved, but that wasn't what concerned her the most at the moment. She had heard that Sakura was going to testify in favor of Sudo, but the shy girl had never been one to enjoy being in the spotlight.

As Ayaki approached the room where the session was being held, she spotted Sakura standing near the door. The girl looked like she was about to collapse. Her hands were shaking, and her face was as pale as a sheet. The stress was almost tangible around her.

Ayaki had never spoken to Sakura before. They weren't close, but seeing her in this state, Ayaki decided to approach and start a conversation.

- "Hey, Sakura?"

Sakura slowly lifted her head, her eyes widening slightly as she recognized Ayaki. She seemed surprised that someone was talking to her.

- "Oh... Hi..."

- "Are you okay? You seem a little tense," Ayaki said with a reassuring smile, trying to ease the tension.

Sakura lowered her eyes, unable to hide her stress.

- "I... I'm really nervous. I'm not used to speaking in front of so many people... What if I make a mistake? What if..."

Ayaki gently placed a hand on Sakura's shoulder.

- "You won't make a mistake. Just remember why you're here: you know what really happened, and you're the only one who can help Sudo. Take a deep breath and focus on that."

Sakura still seemed hesitant, her gaze falling to the floor.

- "But... what if no one believes me? I'm so clumsy..."

Ayaki smiled.

- "If anyone can convince that room of what really happened, it's you. It's not easy, I know, but think about what Sudo has gone through. He needs you right now."

Sakura closed her eyes for a moment, inhaling deeply as Ayaki had suggested. Gradually, her shoulders relaxed a little, though some tension remained.

- "Thank you, Ayaki... I'll try."

At that moment, the door to the room opened slightly, and a voice called Sakura to testify. The girl nodded nervously before heading toward the room.

- "Good luck," Ayaki murmured as Sakura disappeared behind the door.

Ayaki lingered for a moment outside the room, thinking about the events to come. She knew the situation was tense, and that Ryuen, a student from Class C, was likely behind it all. He was ruthless and never hesitated to use manipulation and violence to get what he wanted.

Suddenly, as she was about to leave, a figure appeared at the end of the hallway. It was him, Ryuen Kakeru, the leader of Class C, flanked by two of his cronies. Ayaki felt a wave of tension wash over her, but she stood her ground. Ryuen walked toward her, a contemptuous smile on his face.

- "Get out of my way," he spat as he approached her.

Ayaki looked him straight in the eye, not backing down.

- "Why should I?"

Ryuen stopped, visibly surprised that she was standing up to him. His eyes narrowed in anger.

- "What did you just say?"

- "You heard me. Go to hell, Ryuen," she replied calmly, but with a hint of defiance.