That day, Liora returned to Blackridge Academy, despite the mixed emotions she carried. She knew that her decision to come back wasn’t easy, but she also understood that in order to reveal the truth, she would have to face even greater challenges.

Upon arriving at Blackridge, the campus atmosphere felt even more tense. There was an unspoken tension in the air, and every student seemed to avoid eye contact with her. Liora could feel the suspicious stares from a few students, and within herself, her anxiety only grew.

In the hall, Liora met Celestine Wolfe, the President of the student council, whose dominant attitude was becoming more apparent. Celestine sat at the front, her sharp gaze fixed on Liora as if assessing something dangerous.

"You’re back, huh?" Celestine said, her voice dripping with sarcasm. "I thought you’d run off after everything that happened."

Liora stared at her coldly, though her heart wavered slightly. "I didn’t run away. I just needed time to think."

"Think carefully, Liora," Celestine replied, crossing her arms over her chest. "This decision isn’t just about you. It’s about how the entire school sees you."

Liora held herself back from responding harshly. "I know what’s happening here, Celestine. But I won’t stay silent. The truth will come out, one way or another."

Celestine let out a thin laugh, her voice mocking. "The truth? What’s that? Do you really think you can take on everyone here by yourself?"

Before Liora could reply, someone approached from behind. "Liora, I need to talk."

It was Arlo, a senior member of the student council who was fairly close to Celestine. His face was serious, and there was something about him that made Liora feel she needed to be cautious.

"You’ve come here with empty hopes," Arlo continued, speaking softly as though only Liora could hear. "Blackridge’s OSIS is more than just an organization. It’s a power that can determine your future. If you keep fighting, you’ll lose more than just your certificate."

Liora felt as though she were standing at a crossroads. She knew Celestine, Severin, Elise, and the others wouldn’t stop until they destroyed her reputation, but she also knew that to expose the huge lies hidden behind OSIS, she couldn’t back down.

"I’m not afraid," Liora replied firmly, though a bit of fear lingered in her heart. "You can try to pressure me, but I will fight."

Arlo shrugged. "Alright, Liora. If that’s what you want."

Liora knew this was just the beginning of something bigger. Celestine, Severin, Elise, and the others clearly wouldn’t let her go easily. But with the courage fueled by her firm decision to seek the truth, Liora felt slightly stronger.

Amid the uncertainty and growing pressure, Liora decided to dig even deeper. Whatever happened, she wasn’t going to give up.