Following observation, Mia was discharged the next day. The doctor emphasized rest, citing no physical harm, and recommended a psychiatrist's evaluation. However, Mia's friends declined, unsure if they needed external help.
Though they didn't voice their concerns to the teacher, they harbored doubts. The similarities between Mia's experience and the previous girl's were uncanny. Coincidence seemed unlikely.
"We need to dig deeper," Mike said, walking out of the hospital.
"I agree," Jake replied. "Too many unanswered questions. Like Selin's missing phone, the malfunctioning lift, and the stairwell surveillance cameras not working."
Selin nodded. "And the fact that Mia was found in the corridor, not the classroom she described."
Their minds buzzed with theories and concerns.
"Could someone have intentionally disabled the cameras and lift?" Mike wondered.
"And taken Selin's phone to prevent her from calling for help?" Jake added.
Selin's eyes widened. "We need to investigate discreetly. No need to alarm Mia's parents."
As they walked Mia home, they hatched a plan:
1. Review school security protocols
2. Interview the other victim
3. Search for potential clues
To avoid raising suspicions, they wouldn't notify anyone, including Mia's parents, about their investigation. Instead, they'd cite Mia's mental health as the reason for her extended leave.
"Mia needs time to recover," Mike explained to the school administration. "We'll ensure she's prepared for her exams."
In reality, they aimed to uncover the truth behind the mysterious events.
Mia, now calm and convinced it was a human-made accident, focused on her studies. Her friends began their investigation.
Selin took the lead, visiting the other victim, Emily, a straight-A second-year student.
Selin sat down with Emily in a quiet café, ensuring they were alone.
"Emily, I'm so glad you agreed to meet me," Selin said gently. "Mia's going through a tough time, and I think your experiences are connected."
Emily's eyes widened, a mix of fear and curiosity. "What do you mean?"
Selin took a deep breath. "Mia was found unconscious in the school corridor, just like you two months ago. She described being tied to a chair and seeing a white figure."
Emily's face paled. "That's... exactly what happened to me."
"Did you report it to anyone?" Selin asked.
Emily shook her head. "No one believed me. They thought I was stressed or hallucinating. Even my parents thought I was overreacting."
Selin's expression turned sympathetic. "I believe you, Emily. We all do. Can you tell me more about that day?"
Emily hesitated before speaking:
"I was studying in an empty classroom during lunch. Suddenly, I felt dizzy and disoriented. Next thing I knew, I was tied to a chair. The white figure... it was so real. It felt like it was watching me."
Selin's eyes locked onto Emily's. "Did you notice anything unusual? Any sounds, smells, or details?"
Emily thought for a moment. "The room smelled like... old books. And I heard faint whispering, but it was too quiet to make out."
Selin jotted down notes. "We'll look into it. Did you notice anyone suspicious around you that day?"
Emily frowned. "There was someone... I saw them in the hallway earlier. They were wearing a hoodie, but I couldn't see their face."
Selin's eyes sparkled with determination. "We'll find out who it was. You're not alone, Emily. We'll uncover the truth."