Synopsis

The task felt endless: polishing, dusting, a constant battle against the encroaching disorder. Ms. Hibiya worked with quiet determination, her movements precise and practiced. Hideki and Chii, eager to assist, offered their help, a small comfort in the overwhelming work. A sudden commotion echoed from the electronics room. A gasp, a yelp – then silence. Hideki rushed out, his face pale. Sumomo lay still on the floor, entangled in wires. Ms. Hibiya knelt beside her, a flicker of something unr