"I've already heard all about the situation from Mr. Kikuoka beforehand. Over the past week, Kotonoha also told me about you, saying that you might come to visit, so I've been prepared for quite some time."
Dr. Kurahashi addressed the group.
"In any case, I'll take you to see Kotonoha first. Her ward is on the top floor of the central building, which is some distance from here. You might as well use this time to prepare yourselves mentally."
After leaving them with those unsettling words, Kurahashi led the way.
Luo Zhen and Asuna immediately exchanged glances. One wore an expression of calm, while the other was filled with unease, yet they held each other's hands tightly as they followed behind Kurahashi.
Kikuoka Seijiro had already completed his own task, but he followed behind Luo Zhen and Asuna as well, seemingly intending to observe the entire process.
Under these circumstances, the group headed toward the three elevators lined up in the central building's lobby, entering the one on the far right marked "Staff Only."
Kurahashi pressed the card hanging around his neck against the panel to the right of the elevator. The doors immediately slid open with a smooth chime, and after everyone entered, the elevator began to ascend with almost no sound of movement or sensation of acceleration.
According to Kurahashi, the twelfth floor—the top floor of this building—was completely off-limits to outsiders. Thus, as soon as they stepped out of the elevator, they were faced with a heavily guarded door.
Kurahashi again brought the card hanging from his neck near the scanner beside the door, then pressed his palm against the panel for biometric verification. Only then did the metal barrier descend with a faint metallic sound, allowing them to pass through.
The level of security made it