Hello, and welcome to the final part of the trial! Here, we are finally going to get right down into who exactly killed Wakana... hopefully. Anyways, this chapter took a while for me to actually get started. However, once I actually started I got into the flow and ended up making this chapter really long. I honestly expected myself to finish this chapter next week, but whatever XD

ToonGuy: "Me neither, I don't know what's happening?! Yes, wouldn't it be tiring having to stand up the entire time during the trial XD Yes, Kakuma was more likable, and a favorite haha. Maybe he is a klutz because the plot said so? Or maybe not... hm... Glad you like Kyatchi so far~ Yes, I assume Masako would know these things because she is a survivalist, after all, she needs to know how to survive XD Glad you enjoyed last chapter, and hopefully you'll have fun with this one."

liammarklh88: "Aw thank you, but you have three stories, so I have to give props to you instead XD If Akio was the killer, then Kyatchi will have fun breaking the fourth wall about it! Glad you enjoyed the stimulation mechanism~ I honestly just learned that from watching a YouTube video on Reddit solving murder cases, to be honest~ A good ship for sure. Yes, yes, Joker's beautifully unique characters~ Waka Waka, huh?"

Glass-Lady-of-the-Opera: "Yes, I did. Let's see how she'll escape everyone's hatred now XD Thank you, and continue to great on whatever you're doing too~"

Meta King: "Pfft, nice theory XD Decebel is definitely a demon, yes, I confirmed that."

PainX65: "Yes, I see you there, my handsome shogun... SHOGUN KAYO?!"

Lupus Overkill: "Hello, glad to see you back and kicking... writing long reviews... Just kidding, I love reading your reviews~ Pfft, I see that Misaki will be part of the comedy group now. She shall join Watari and Kyatchi. Does he care? Does he not? Who knows- oh wait, me. Yes, the stimulation idea was something I wanted to explore, and I'm glad you seem to like it. Everything requires risk, even sleeping... maybe... Well, to be fair, Tomoyo is a cute character XD Right, I just noticed she's in the middle of the two. Poor Tomoyo. Yes, the 'rules', the totally not vague rules. Well, glad you like the ending. I tend to be only great at writing ending scenes XD Let's see how long your next review is..."

Akio could see their looks of shock and doubt. It was obvious that they didn't believe him.

"What are you talking about?" Kiyoko asked, baffled. She was taken aback by how serious the man looked. "Didn't you pin them down because they were the culprits? For you to suddenly say that… Doesn't that mean this was all a mistake?"

"B-besides, pardon my rudeness, but Blanchard admitted it." Masako worriedly took a look at the butler, is expression indifferent. "A-are you suggesting that he's lying?"

The brunette nodded. "That's exactly what I'm trying to say. I think there's something off here, but I don't know what."

Kyatchi raised a brow. "So, a hunch?"

"That might be it." Akio held his breath, knowing the doubt was lingering in everyone's faces. "I think that we shouldn't vote yet. We haven't solved the entirety of Wakana's case anyways, right? Don't you want to avenge her?"

"Avenge is quite the strong word." Watari chuckled, amused. "But honestly, it's not like this 'punishment' Monokuma so forth calls it will harm us in any way. If we make a mistake in choosing our culprit, so what? We'll just be 'punished'. Nothing too dramatic, correct?"

Tomoyo thought for a moment, eyebrows furrowed. "I… I don't know, but when you put it that way, it sounds like this 'punishment' Monokuma brings forth will hurt us…"

"Ooh. Reverse psychology worked in my favor!" The detective applauded himself happily. "But yes, it might, but it might not. Do you really want us to waste our time here?"

Ayako averted her gaze. "W-we already got the fact that we did it… I don't understand you at all, Blaise."

"I admitted it." Blanchard looked hurt. "I must question why you're suspicious about my confession, Master Blaise."

"I…" Akio averted his gaze. He knew he was right. He just had to be right about this. "I just think that something's off. Even if you are the killer, I want to fully reveal what happened to Wakana. I want to know everything that happened to her in 100% detail. We can't just vote yet. I don't want this to end in mystery."

"I understand that." The screenwriter's expression suddenly shifted into that of empathy. "I want to know more about this as well."

"Why can't we just vote first?" Keishi asked, raising a brow. "It won't hurt."

Yume shrugged. "It doesn't matter. Do whatever you guys think is best."

"If we vote, doesn't that mean it's too late already? The punishment will either come for us or the killer." Hitomu was bemused. "Maybe it is best we wait."

"Does the punishment even matter?" Kyatchi snorted. "Maybe Monokuma will make us clean the building for a week or something."

"W-we already admitted it!" Ayako cried, annoyed. "I just want to get this over with! Please?!"

"Does it matter at this point?" Kiyoko asked, eyeing Akio. "This trial was worth nothing. We could've just asked Blanchard and Viorel hours ago."

Tomoyo frowned. "Would they admit it so easily?"

The butler smiled. "If you demand us to, then yes."

"W-wait, really?" Shinjimae was shocked, dumbfounded. "Uh… A-at least you're honest?"

"But they're not the murderer," Akio countered, crossing his arms. "We cannot vote yet. I don't think Blanchard and Viorel are the killer."

"Then why lie to us?" Yume was curious. "So Ayako is the killer?"

"Not that either. Ayako wouldn't have been defeated so easily then." The actor sighed. "Someone else is the killer."

"Uh…" Masako blinked repeatedly. "D-doesn't that mean you assume e-everyone wants to c-claim themselves as a killer?"

Kyatchi raised his hand, clearing his throat. "And doesn't that mean we're back at square one, Mr. Fukui?"

"Not exactly." Akio threw a look at Ayako and Blanchard. "We figured out that these two confessed to the crime, but why? Well, in my opinion, I think they're trying to cover up the true killer."

"What?!" Shinjimae threw his hands over his mouth. His face had paled. "S-so are you s-saying that t-they're accomplices?"

"That doesn't make any sense." Kyatchi raised a brow, eyeing the actor. "Why would those two help the killer anyways? Other than the motive, there is no other explanation. I wouldn't have assumed those two would even have the guts to help the killer."

THINKING TIME

Question: Why would Ayako and Decebel help the murderer other than for the motive?

[A. They are guaranteed safety.]

B. They are doing it for fun/entertainment.

C. I do not know.

D. They're being brainwashed/manipulated.

Akio: That's the answer!

BREAK!

"Well," Akio began, blunt, "if not because of the motive, the killer can grant them safety if needed. The killer will owe them, and so if they want to do something sinister in the future, they can ask for the killer's help. They are also guaranteed safety as part of a deal that they do not reveal the killer in exchange that the killer can help them later."

"Really?" Tomoyo frowned, pursing her lips. She looked over to the butler and lolita fashion model. She was silent, then looking back to the actor. "So, Ayako and Decebel were potentially planning to murder later?"

The actor shook his head. "Not necessarily. They could've only helped to save themselves later if the killer were to kill more people."

"W-what?" Shinjimae looked worried. "I-it just sounds l-like the k-killer wanted to kill m-more than just W-Wakana…"

"A serial killer, my dear Shinji." Watari smirked. "So, if Aki's not a serial killer, then this murderer itself is… Or will be, if not for this trial and 'punishment'."

Masako nodded. "I-if we can figure out who it is, that is."

Keishi frowned. "Well, is that right?"

Ayako scoffed. "I-I keep telling you, you already figured it out! Just stop harassing me already! Geez!"

Blanchard cleared his throat. "I cannot confirm nor deny that. I have merely stated the truth, yet I cannot speak anymore if you continue to deny it."

"It is not the truth, that's why." Akio scoffed, rolling his eyes. "So, can we all come to the conclusion that we should continue the trial? At least solve Wakana's murder to the very end and maybe figure out if there is a true culprit to this case other than Decebel and Ayako?"

"I'm up for anything," the detective answered, shrugging. He then smiled sweetly at the screenwriter. "How about you, Moe?"

Tomoyo immediately went red, squeaking. "Y-yes!"

Watari chuckled. "Amusing, Moe."

Tomoyo was thrown into complete silence.

Akio deadpanned at the scene, quickly clearing his throat. "Anyways, I think we need to actually solve what is given to us- the truth bullets. We haven't figured out half of this whole thing."

"He…" Hitomu scanned through the truth bullets for a moment, then nodding. "He is right. I do have a lot of questions myself, and I would be frustrated if I were not to have a clear answer of what happened to Wakana, how, etc."

"Okay then," Kiyoko began, crossing her arms, "What have we not gone over, Blaise?"

The actor cupped his chin, pondering. "Well… For starters, we need to discuss about what is missing from the kitchen. We glanced over this for a bit-"

"-But we reached a dead end."

Akio nodded. His eyes were focused on Hitomu, the cat keeper having ended his sentence. With that settled, he continued. "Not only that, but the process of killing Wakana had been ignored. We also need to consider Wakana's message to Kiyoko."

"Oh, right!" Misaki turned to the recreation worker. "What was that about?"

Kiyoko frowned. "Oh, right." She glared at Akio for a moment, then turning to Monokuma. "Can you show them my conversation with Wakana?"

Monokuma snorted, shaking his head. "Bitch, please. I'm not that nice. You guys figure out if she's a big fat liar or not! I'm not helping!"

"... Well, that is a shame." Kiyoko scoffed, rolling her eyes. "My testimony is less valuable now."

"It's fine, Koko," Watari said, chuckling. His eyes were glimmering in amusement. His fingers were drumming against the wooden table. "Please do entertain us with you testimony."

The recreation worker threw Watari a look of disgust, but nonetheless sighed and nodded. She was rubbing the corners of her eyes. "Well," she began, a small yawn escaping her, "To be frank, I was just warning Wakana to avoid Blaise."

Akio was silent. He knew what the woman meant by this, eyebrows furrowed. "She argued against that point then, I assume?"

"She did. I was worried that you'd tried to hurt her and although I assumed the worst out of people here, I feel like she's the one who'd be innocent out of all of us possibly being 'murderers'." Kiyoko then averted her gaze, saddened. "I ended up making her mad, and I left the chat before she could apologize."

"I see." Akio's composure loosened, the stiffness on his face dropping. He honestly understood what Kiyoko was saying despite it annoying him. "You didn't want anyone to hurt Wakana."

"Even if we have our differences, I know she's the one who'd be most hurt by anyone here." The recreation worker clenched into her fists, irritated. "I just had a hunch she's not the type of person who'd be a killer, no matter how hypocritical it sounds from me."

"Y-you never apologized to her, did you?" Masako was teary. "T-that sounds so s-sad… I'm sorry, Kiyoko…"

Hitomu stroked his cats' fur. "I see. I'm assuming this conversation between you and Wakana does not have to do with the murder then."

"We're assuming that…" Misaki bit into her lips. "Well, if she's not lying, that is."

A loud sound was heard.

Everyone was forced to look to Watari. The man had his hands clapped together, smile widened and that of a sneaky grin. It was obvious there was malice behind such expression.

"She's not lying," he began, tone condescending and arrogant, "She's telling us the complete truth."

"Really…?" Keishi couldn't help but be doubtful.

Yume shrugged. "I mean, she wouldn't have asked Monokuma to reveal her conversation with Wakana then."

"True," Tomoyo replied, a smile on her lips. "I don't doubt Kiyoko. I think she's innocent."

"Moe, you need to at least doubt her a little." Watari was shaking his head, sighing. Noticing the saddened look on the woman's face, he quickly cleared his throat and continued. His eyes were fixated on Akio. "What do you think?"

Akio's eyes widened. "Huh? I'm not entirely sure…"

I can't make a 100% correct judgement, but if she is lying… then why? It's easier if she's not lying though. Hm. I'll have to trust what Kiyoko said at least in this moment then.

The trial might go much more quicker and more efficiently if we trust her too. I'll be able to avenge Wakana quicker this way.

Akio smiled sweetly at the recreation worker. "I think we should trust Kiyoko then. If she wanted to lie to us, she wouldn't have asked Monokuma to reveal their conversation beforehand."

"I mean…" Kyatchi had a brow raised. "... Maybe she did that to trick us?"

"The risks of Monokuma actually listening to her would most likely deter her," the actor explained, shaking his head. "Besides, if we were to ask Monokuma ourselves to reveal the conversation, Monokuma would most likely say that it isn't needed because Kiyoko already 'explained' what happened."

All eyes were turned to the overseer.

The bear laughed, nodding his head rapidly. "That's right, Aki! Like I said, I'm not gonna do jackshit for anyone here!"

Yume snorted. "Pssh, you sure?"

The cat keeper smiled awkwardly at the group. He was hesitant, but nonetheless acknowledged Akio's explanation as he placed his pets gently down to the ground. "I suppose we can set aside Wakana's message then. Shall we talk about Wakana's murder itself then? We might have a clearer grasp of who could've been the killer this way."

"G-good idea!" Shinjimae praised the cat keeper with ease, smile wide. "W-we should d-do that then."

The screenwriter seemed content with this, quickly leaning her body closer to the group. "I think we peddle back on where Wakana was killed."

"Right…" Keishi nodded, eyes averted to the ground. "I can agree with that."

"She was either killed inside of the library or outside…" Kyatchi frowned. "Why would she be killed outside?"

Watari laughed, standing up and spinning around. He threw the juggler a sly wink, almost seductive. "Well, let's discuss it, shall we?"

I don't have any qualms with that, despite it being said by Watari. Akio smiled, a surge of determination rushing through his body. Let's see…

NONSTOP DEBATE

Truth Bullets: Duct Tape | Knife | Blanchard/Viorel's Chores | Trash Can

Kiyoko: So, what piece of evidence could support the fact that Wakana was murdered inside the library or not?

Ayako: I would say that because of the carbon monoxide?

Kyatchi: Why is that a question?

Ayako: H-hey, just be quiet!

Tomoyo: It could be though. The carbon monoxide was there in order to make Blaise fall unconscious, nonetheless Wakana.

Viorel: What if Wakana went outside though?

Keishi: I somehow doubt that…

Hitomu: To be fair, it would be much more easier to be caught if the killer killed Wakana outside. Besides, I do not see any reason for Wakana to go outside.

Masako: T-to add into that point, I think the carbon monoxide would hit Wakana's system before she had the chance to go outside as well… She's more… well, frail in comparison to Blaise, so I think she'd fall unconscious much more easier than him.

Misaki: Huh, really? Well then! That's interesting!

Yume: Well, if not the carbon monoxide, then what?

Shinjimae: M-maybe, perhaps, t-there's something t-that was signaled her being choked inside? M-maybe i-if she was killed inside the l-library, then s-something was used to cause B-Blaise from waking up or something?

Watari: Hm, that's a possibility~

Blanchard: I think I can conclude that you know the answer already, Master Watari.

Watari: Yes, that's right.

Keishi: Why can't he just help us…?

-Truth Bullet Selected: Duct Tape-

Akio: I agree with that!

BREAK!

Akio quickly sent forth the truth bullet before explaining himself. "I'm sure you all have noticed this, but there was duct tape at the crime scene."

"Right…" The cat keeper eyed the screen for a moment, nodding his head. "I see. You're trying to say that Wakana had been rendered speechless. The duct tape was taped over her mouth to keep her from waking you up."

Shinjimae trembled a bit in his seat, fidgeting. "T-that's horrible… So the k-killer choked her to death a-and m-muffled her voice…"

The detective grinned. "It does make sense, but isn't it also risky to kill her inside the library? You could've woken up."

"E-excuse me, Watari, but t-that's not possible," Masako explained, albeit in a muffled voice. "B-Blaise is unconscious, having blacked out. It is much more riskier to kill Wakana outside too… W-Wakana blacked out as well, and that means the killer would've had to drag her outside i-if they did so."

"I understand, Masako," the detective began, chuckling, "but Decebel and Ayako are our suspects, aren't they? The third person wouldn't mind if the duo had seen them, correct?"

Akio shook his head. "Other people could've gone outside to either fetch a snack or walk around. The killer would rather risk it inside the library than to drag Wakana's body around."

Tomoyo pursed her lips, pondering on those words. She slowly came into nodding her head. "That is true…"

"I'm still unsure about believing that," Kiyoko began, crossing her arms, "but it will have to do, I guess."

"I mean, you can't take everything completely," Akio admitted, smiling. He had closed the tab of the truth bullet shown right at his face. "Just take everything I said into consideration. I know I'd be wrong in some things. Not everyone's perfect."

The recreation worker eyed Akio for a long moment, then scoffing. She turned her head away from the man. "True."

"Okay, so we assume that Wakana was killed inside of the library." Watari drummed his fingers. "She was choked to death and had her body messed up in the library after a careful consideration of you and her falling asleep. Ayako and Decebel are backing up this third person as well, correct?"

"I'm still inclined to believe Decebel's the killer though…" Yume murmured underneath her breath, suspicious.

"Hmph." Kyatchi was tugging at his bandannas again. "I want this case to be over with, honestly. If only our actual killer was honest like Decebel… Well, if the killer themselves aren't Decebel, that is."

Blanchard sighed. "I am the killer though."

"Sure…" The juggler smirked dryly. "Keep telling yourself that, and maybe you'll end up killing someone who actually wants you to be a killer."

The eyepatch was switched. Viorel was glaring at the shorter man. "Please keep your mouth shut-"

"Viorel, enough." Blanchard forcibly switched back. He had punched himself straight in the face. It would've been comedic if not for how indifferent the butler looked. "Do not insult Master Kyatchi."

"What a show," Kyatchi retorted, rolling his eyes.

Hitomu cleared his throat, trying to bring back attention to the case. His smile was awkward. "Well, to explain this case briefly- Blaise and Wakana were inside of the library when they fell unconscious to the carbon monoxide. That is when the killer came in and choked Wakana to death. The killer then cut her limbs apart and stabbed a flower into her, correct?"

Akio nodded. "Right."

"If that's the case, then that solves Wakana's murder." Hitomu chuckled. "We just have to think about who killed her and pin them down."

"There's also the matter of what was missing from the kitchen," Tomoyo added, albeit with an awkward smile. "Uh, am I right about that?"

The cat keeper smiled. "Yes, that's correct."

"N-no one knows what's m-missing from the kitchen though," Shinjimae said, a worried look on his face.

"Oh! I know!" Misaki was raising her hands high.

Hitomu turned to the surgeon. "What is it, Misaki?"

The surgeon smiled widely. "What if the thing that was missing from the kitchen was rope? We never found what choked Wakana, right?"

"Haha, good try."

Misaki's eyes widened. She found herself staring at Watari, the detective shaking his head. He was wagging his finger, a mocking grin on his lips. It was obvious that he knew the correct answer.

"That is certainly not the case," he said, his tone that of amusement and glee. "And that is because of a simple reason."

"Really?" Akio frowned. He despised how the detective acted so smug. "And why is that so, Mr. Smartypants?"

"Like I never heard of that." The shorter man turned to meet his gaze. "Then why don't you tell her, Aki? You must know what I am talking about, right?"

Akio was silent.

I don't, but hell if I'm gonna admit that. He cupped his chin, staring hard at his computer screen. What reason could it be…? Hm…

PSYCHE TAXI

…

Question 1: Was Wakana choked to death?

A. No, she died from blood loss.

[B. Yes.]

C. No, she was stabbed to death.

…

GOT IT!

…

Question 2: Can a rope be found anywhere other than the kitchen?

A. No.

[B. Yes.]

…

GOT IT!

…

Question 3: Is it possible for a wound to look like rope burns?

[A. Yes.]

B. No.

…

GOT IT!

…

Akio: The answer's right there!

BREAK!

"I got it."

Watari whistled. "Ooh, really? Then tell me and the rest of us here, Aki."

"I know that already," the actor sighed, rolling his eyes. "Well, the thing is, do we really know if a rope choked Wakana?"

"I mean…" Misaki looked to the screen. "The Case File said so, right?"

Akio chuckled. "Can we really trust Monokuma with this? Besides, what a 'knotted rope' is can mean anything. Words these days hold different meanings, and people hold different interpretations of a phrase or word."

"That's true." Tomoyo smiled at the actor, nodding her head. "People hold different interpretations, and that is why I have to specify what emotion I want an actor to emote in a line or such."

"Ah, I see…" Hitomu acknowledged the woman's words with a smile. His cats were happily moving around the table. "That does make sense. I understand."

The actor smiled back. "Right, it is exactly as how Tomoyo described it. Monokuma could either be lying to us, or he is purposely messing with us with how we interpret these words."

Misaki tilted her head, baffled. "So, if it wasn't the rope that was missing inside of the kitchen, then what?"

"Ah, I-I'm not sure about that one yet," Akio began, awkwardly chuckling, "however, I can prove that it wasn't a rope that was missing."

The brunette then crossed his arms. "There are other things that can cause a rope burn, or, as I'll put it- friction burn."

"O-oh!" Masako's eyes widened with realization. "I-if you are talking about friction burns, t-then there are such things as carpet burns and rug burns… y-you can also get it from clothing."

"Huh, I'm not surprised you'd know this." Watari chuckled, amused. "You are the Ultimate Survivalist, after all."

Kyatchi raised a brow. "Is that a compliment?"

The detective grinned slyly towards the juggler. "Well, how do you interpret it?"

"Ooh," the juggler whistled, "How comedic."

"Hm~ So Aki is saying that Wakana could've been choked by anything." Watari laughed for a moment, but suddenly changed his tone into that of seriousness. His eyes were staring straight into the actor. "Am I wrong?"

Akio was taken aback by the intense glare thrown at him, but regained composure and smiled. "That's right. If anything, the killer could've used their clothes to choke Wakana. Friction burns are possible from clothing, like what Masako said."

"R-right!" The cowardly woman nodded her head.

"But that also means Wakana could've still be killed from a rope," Kiyoko countered, frowning. "Right?"

The brunette sighed. "Possibly, but I think it's more likely the killer wrapped their clothing into that of a makeshift rope and killed Wakana that way."

"It makes sense," Yume said, speaking for no one but herself.

"Well… at least we can cross a rope having not been the one missing from the kitchen," Hitomu cheerfully said, trying to stay optimistic. "We also were able to realize how easily the killer could've find something to choke Wakana then."

"Using their own clothing, huh?" Kyatchi smirked. "How scandalous. Having used their own clothing is quite perverted of them. Having worn it and such…"

"Gross," Ayako murmured, underneath her breath. "That's gross!"

"At least you weren't the killer," the juggler mused. "Because if you were, you would've stripped and used your pretty little clothes to choke her."

Ayako glared at the man. She looked about ready to slap him.

"So, we technically solved how Wakana died, but…" Tomoyo pursed her lips. "Who's the killer? If not Decebel or Ayako, then who?"

"That is quite the question," Blanchard mused. "But-"

"No, it's not you." The brunette instantly shut him down. "It can't be you nor Ayako."

Kiyoko frowned. "Then who?"

Akio bit into his lips. He honestly didn't know. He couldn't figure it out. It was on the tip of his tongue, yet that sweet taste of victory was far.

What could connect us to the murderer? Just what could it be?

Akio held his breath. He had to do something.

NONSTOP DEBATE

Truth Bullets: Case File #001 | Trash Can | Knife | Misaki's Testimony

Misaki: So, uh… Who's the killer?

Blanchard: I have said it time and time again, but it's me.

Kiyoko: Why're you so inclined to make us believe that?

Viorel: Obviously, because he's honest?

Blanchard: Yes, I am telling the truth. Please believe and vote for me.

Watari: Aw, are you guys at a dead end here?

Tomoyo: Why do you look so happy about it?

Watari: Maybe because there is something obvious you guys are missing, hm? Moe, my actions are obvious to you, so don't question me for the sake of questioning me.

Tomoyo: I-I…

Keishi: Uh, why won't you tell us anything though? It'll help…

Watari: Now where's the fun in that, Keishi?

Kyatchi: Hmph. This is ridiculous.

Watari: Do you need a hint? Yes, or no?

Ayako: You really are having fun with this!

Watari: Haha, I am! This is fun. Alright then, I'll tell you my little hint, and that is- why did Decebel admit that he was the killer now, and not earlier?

Tomoyo: What? Why…?

Ayako: Well, obviously, because you guys caught him!

Tomoyo: Was it because the killer told him too? But if so… why now…? It's not like [they told him to at that exact moment]…

Yume: That's impossible.

Shinjimae: Y-yeah… I-it doesn't sound possible…

Watari: What's the reason, I wonder~

Kiyoko: … Quit smiling like that.

-Statement: "... they told him to at that exact moment…"-

Akio: This is the reason!

BREAK!

"Maybe…" Akio's eyes widened. "Is it…?"

"H-huh?" Tomoyo's eyes furrowed. She looked worried as she turned to the actor. "Um, did I say something wrong?"

"No, that's not it." The brunette shook his head, stern. His eyes were focused on the detective. "Are you trying to say that the killer told Decebel to confess at that exact moment?"

"So mind reading is possible? Woah." Kyatchi smiled, nodding his head before slowly applauding the man. "I see. I never knew. Good work, Blaise, good work."

"Oh my god, no, it's not that." Akio rolled his eyes. "What Watari's implying is that Monokuma built in a system where accomplices and murderers could work with one another."

"What?" Hitomu's eyes widened. He pointed to his computer. "You mean, the system here benefits the killer and those two? But we only have the truth bullets, stimulator, and that's it…?"

The actor shook his head. "No, not exactly. There are much more to come, and Monokuma even confirmed that. Well… in this case, there may be more to come, but one of them's hidden, and what's hidden is a mechanism where the killer can interact with their accomplices!"

Masako was shocked, hands over her mouth.

"That's…" Even the juggler was speechless, unable to finish his sentence.

"T-the evidence was in this trial the entire time?" Shinjimae's face paled. "I-I should've been looking a-at everyone's s-screens then…"

"I doubt we can," Watari said, assuring the animal whisperer with a small smile. "You see, Monokuma made sure that only the murderer and accomplices would know of this. If someone as technologically advanced as Monokuma can function, then such a thing as a system utilized through mind is possible."

"What?" Ayako blinked a couple of times. "H-how do you-"

Watari threw his head back, laughing.

"Well, obviously because I have the mechanic!" The detective grinned wryly at Ayako, suddenly standing up. His hands were slammed to the table, eyes glittering a malicious hue. "You know how useful it is to be Monokuma's witness?"

Everyone was speechless.

"W-what the hell are you talking about?" Akio managed to say, sweating. "What does that mean?"

"Don't focus on that, Aki." Watari chuckled. He winked at the actor before suddenly turning his computer back, making it face the entire group. "You see this?"

Akio frowned. He took a look at the screen, eyes then widening.

Right there, on the screen, was a small message at the bottom, hidden at the very left of the corner. It was flashing white, the simple, small word 'Chatroom' there on the screen. It continued to blink, flickering on and off. It was almost mocking the group who was staring at it, dumbfounded.

"I-I don't have anything like that," Tomoyo began, shocked. "H-how does it work?"

Watari grinned, his tone devious and sly. "Like I said, the system utilizes our minds. If I want to message, I just think about what to say, who to send it to, and send it. Simple, right?"

"But…" The screenwriter looked hesitant. "This is…"

"Oh, and if you're wondering who I message…" Watari smirked. "... I think that's obvious as to who."

"Monokuma." Akio turned to the overseer. He didn't care at all, instead smiling at the actor in amusement. The actor looked back to Watari. "Why?"

"Oh, wouldn't you like to know, my dear Aki." The detective snickered, slowly moving back to his seat. "And, if you are all wondering- no, I'm not the killer. Wouldn't that be too obvious, hm?"

"It would…" Kyatchi began, averting his gaze. "... But this is ridiculous. How are we supposed to believe that you're chatting with Monokuma?"

Watari winked at the man. "Aw, now that's easy~"

A moment passed before the screen suddenly changed. Everyone was brought to a chatroom, the name at the top labeled 'Monokuma/Watari', and within seconds a message popped up.

[Chatroom: (Watari/Monokuma)

(Suspended Messages…)

Watari: See?

Watari: (Type here…)]

Akio frowned, eyeing the message. He looked over to the detective. "... I do wonder if I want to know what you and Monokuma were talking about throughout the trial."

"Does it matter?" Watari rolled his eyes, having folded his arms. "If I had the luxury of showing you such information, then Monokuma wouldn't have suspended the rest of our messages here. See?"

Akio noticed the words 'Suspended Messages' near the top. The detective was right. It seemed like messages from earlier couldn't be retrieved or seen.

Monokuma laughed from the distance, swinging his empty glass around and around. "Puhuhuhuhu! Like I'd make it that easy for you shits to figure out! If you knew what he and I were talking about, then this would be over before you know it!"

The overseer then stopped, now staring at Watari. His red eye began to glow, shining in malice. "Watari, you really shouldn't have done that though. Now they'll be even more suspicious of you."

"Like I care?" The detective snickered, moving the computer screen back to his side. "Some of the information you've given to me are crucial to this trial's result. You want nothing more than to induce despair in them, huh?"

Monokuma was silent for a moment, then smiling. He adjusted himself on his seat. "Good point. I rather not have a trial where guesses are just thrown left and right anyways."

The detective clapped his hands together. "See? I told you!"

"What is this…?" Hitomu was completely taken aback. "Watari, are you working under Monokuma?"

Watari stopped. He slowly turned to look at the cat keeper, expression suddenly having been shifted. The smile in his lips had disappeared. The man was now completely stern, eyes having been lifted from their usual deceitful hue.

"What does it look like to you?" He began, grave. "Is it help? Is it betrayal?"

Kiyoko frowned. "Definitely betrayal."

"W-well…" Masako averted her gaze. "I-it sounds like such…"

"Betrayal, huh?" Watari eyed the recreation worker for a moment. A sigh escaped his lips, his expression darkening. "No matter what I say, it is up to you guys to decide. My way of helping you all will emit different responses, and honestly- I couldn't care less. As long as I keep this up, this will guarantee at least 'that'."

Ayako couldn't help but hold her breath. "... 'That'...?"

"Well, let's not talk about me." The detective grinned, his tone suddenly perky as usual. "You guys know how to figure out who's the murderer now, right?"

A moment passed.

"Oh!" Akio snapped out of his daze. "R-right…"

The actor looked around the room. "Alright," he said, clearing his throat, "let's all check one another's screens then."

Hitomu lifted his head up. "Is everyone alright with that?"

Focus seemed to roll onto Ayako and Decebel.

"Stop staring at us- Ouch!"

"Please be quiet, Viorel." Blanchard bowed his head down. "Please, do what you must. We cannot possibly hope to avoid this anyhow."

"Seriously?" Viorel cried, shocked. "You admit defeat so easily… Sheesh, Blanchard, you always make me worry."

Ayako was in denial (which was telling from her betrayed expression), but was forced to stay silent.

Everyone, though a moment late, began to move. Everyone was suspecting the others and speaking to them, checking the computer screens.

As expected, Ayako and Decebel's computer screens were alike to Watari's. There was the word 'Chatroom' flashing in white.

What's not expected, however, was the third person.

Tomoyo's eyes widened as she suddenly stood up, her chair falling to the ground. "N-no way…"

Shock was written all over everyone's faces. The only people who didn't seem surprised were Watari and the two accomplices. The butler had his head down, making it impossible to see his expression. Ayako, on the other hand, looked frustrated, her eyes tearing up again.

Watari, however, seemed conflicted more than anything. His face contained that which had a mixture of expressions- disinterest, pity, amusement?

It was hard to tell.

"Kiyoko…" Akio's heart was throbbing. His entire face had went pale. "I-it was you after all…?"

Kiyoko eyed the group silently. She hadn't spoke once. Her composure hasn't disappeared either. She acted entirely the same, expression that of ease and rest.

So it was her… Ha…

"Why?" Akio found himself breathless. His hands were clenched into fists. His stomach was churning, and he was lightheaded. "Was it because of that damn argument between you two? Was it because of me or some shit? Why?"

Kiyoko continued to eye the group.

"T-that can't be possible…" Tomoyo's entire body was shaking. "I-it must be a mistake…"

"Hey…" The actor felt sweat trickling down his face. His face was turning red. That silence was provoking him. "Admit it! Are you the goddamn killer or not?!"

The recreation worker finally began to move, a sigh escaping her lips.

"You… Don't get so worked up over a claim."

Akio frowned. The woman was eyeing him, indifferent in her usual blunt tone and expression. It was annoying him further and further.

I finally got the killer down… She must be the killer. I need to pin her down!

"It's not a claim," the actor said, retorting the woman. "You're the one who has that goddamn mechanism like Ayako and Decebel, so obviously you're the killer."

"Am I?" Kiyoko glared at the man. "Is that really the case?"

"Acting so confident?" The actor couldn't help but smirk. He finally had pinned the killer down, and he was just about ready to claw at her neck. "Then why don't you show your conversation with Decebel to us? Or are you unwilling to do such a thing?"

The recreation worker frowned. "Do I have to do such a thing? Can't you just ask Decebel then in that case?"

"U-uh…" Tomoyo was cupping her hands. She was nervous, face covered in sweat. "Guys…"

"What, are you afraid?" Akio's voice was breathless, his heart continuing to throb. "It's already telling that you're the killer. I fucking get it- you have the motivation to do such a thing. If not for the motive thrown at us, then the fact that you believe I'm a killer and that you argued with Wakana!"

Kiyoko rolled her eyes. "Just because of that? What if Ayako and Decebel are the killers though?"

"Huh? Are you stupid? Those two are fucking-"

"Blaise, calm down."

The actor stopped, eyes turning to Tomoyo. The woman flinched at his sight.

Right… Tomoyo's close to Kiyoko.

"Okay," the brunette said, having taken a deep breath. "Kiyoko, you're the only one who has that mechanism other than Watari, Decebel, and Ayako. We confirmed that Watari's working under Monokuma and that he hasn't contacted the other two. Decebel will follow any orders given to him, and Ayako, although suspicious, is most likely not the killer, moreso an accomplice. She already admitted her guilt anyways."

"I…" Tomoyo shook her head. Her eyes were beginning to water. "I can't believe that. Kiyoko… It can't be, right?"

Kyatchi cleared his throat. "W-well, Monokuma, Watari's not lying to us in any way, right?"

Monokuma laughed, throwing his hands up. "Yes, that's right there on the mark! He's not lying. He has nothing to do with this case."

"I see…" Yume murmured. "So it was Kiyoko?"

"How do you know that for sure?" Blanchard asked, eyeing the nihilist. "Even if you were to see our conversations, if she was involved in this case to note and was the one who supposedly told me to confess, how are you sure she's the killer? She might've did that in order to throw you off that I am actually the killer."

Akio snorted. "Isn't that stupid?"

Viorel suddenly came on stage. "And why do you think that, you fuck-"

"Fudge, Viorel."

Well, because it's stupid? Guess I'll have to answer them legitimately if I want to properly exact vengeance for Wakana…

THINKING TIME

Question: Why is it impossible that Kiyoko's demand was a ploy?

A. Because it could've been deciphered.

[B. Because it risks Decebel's chances.]

C. Because it risks Kiyoko's chances.

D. Because one or the other wouldn't have known it was a ploy.

Akio: That's the answer!

BREAK!

"Because, obviously, if Decebel were the killer, then their chances of escaping has already been ruined." Akio glared straight at Kiyoko. "We almost voted for them earlier, remember?"

Kiyoko was silent, simply glaring back at the brunette.

"Just show us the conversation already then." Akio stopped to grin. "But then again, if you say no this already shows your guilt."

"Kiyoko… This can't be…" Tomoyo was shaking her head. "If you're the killer…"

"Are you sure you pinned down the right person?"

Akio scoffed. "I'm confident in that. There's no one else who had the motivation to kill Wakana of all people other than you. Why though? Is it just because of a fucking argument?"

"You're really that confident?" The recreation worker sighed. "You haven't figured out everything, so you're just jumping to conclusions."

Hitomu bit into his lips. "You mean… the missing thing from the kitchen."

"That's right." Kiyoko nodded. "You still haven't figured that out."

"Tsk."

That's right… We don't know shit about that. My victory of sweet vengeance is just right there too…

"If you can't figure out what was missing from the kitchen, then how do you know exactly if what you said is true?"

Akio frowned, now silent.

"D-don't worry about that," Shinjimae said, suddenly stepping into the conversation. "M-maybe i-if we talk a-about what could be m-missing, we can f-figure it out?"

"Well… I don't know what would be missing…" Keishi sighed. "It's worth a shot though."

The actor sighed. He honestly just wanted to vote Kiyoko and get this over it, but he supposed his sweet vengeance could wait. He wanted to completely throw her down, render her speechless.

For Wakana's sake, he had to do this.

PINPOINT THE MISTAKE

Hitomu: So, what could be missing from the kitchen? I know it isn't the knife…

Kyatchi: Definitely food. I'm a genius, aren't I?

Ayako: Yeah, right.

Shinjimae: M-maybe a lighter…?

Yume: Maybe a pot or kettle?

Kiyoko: Well, it's not like a Mason jar is missing either, right?

Watari: Supposedly, maybe what's missing was actually nothing, hm?

Tomoyo: I… I somehow doubt that.

Masako: Maybe it was a-an utensil or plate after all…?

Blanchard: Is that really of concern?

Misaki: Possibly, it was another knife?

Hitomu: I'm… I'm not sure…

Akio: Hm… Alright, that's off.

ANSWER: "... Mason jar…"

Akio: I hear it!

BREAK!

Akio frowned, instantly staring back at the recreation worker. "Now, isn't that specific, Kiyoko?"

Kiyoko bit into her lips. "What? Am I not allowed to be specific or something?"

The actor laughed. "Why would you even be specific about a jar of all things? I would've thought you'd relate it to the case. Maybe a possible weapon or item that can be used inside the crime scene?"

The recreation worker averted her gaze.

Akio grinned. He pinned the woman down.

His eyes looked down at Kiyoko. He noticed something quite interesting.

"Don't you also have a bag?" He asked, smiling. "Maybe you could care to show us it? That jar you speculated was gone from the kitchen?"

Kiyoko glanced down at her bag. She pursed her lips, slowly looking up to Akio. "And why do I have to do that?"

"I think everyone here's curious." Akio chuckled. "Wanna ask?"

Kiyoko frowned. She eyed the group who continued to stare at her in anticipation, breaths stalled.

The woman quickly shook her head. "So what though? There's no use for a jar."

"Is there? We'll find out."

The woman was hesitant, but slowly grabbed ahold of her bag and handed it to Akio. Everyone crowded around him as he slowly opened the flap.

There it was, the Mason jar.

"Huh?" Masako's voice rang throughout the room. "T-the jar's filled with something…"

"If you need to know, that's alcohol."

Akio looked back to the recreation worker. She was now staring at him, her eyes dull.

"Why?"

Kiyoko frowned. She instantly grabbed back the jar and walked a few feet away from the group. "Do I really need a reason why? It honestly has nothing to do with the case."

"What're you planning to do with it?" Ayako asked. She genuinely seemed confused, lips pursed and eyebrows furrowed.

Kiyoko was silent.

"So you are the killer." Akio pointed accusingly at the woman. "So you're the one who killed Wakana!"

The recreation worker scoffed, holding the jar firmly in her hands. "So, what if I did? That doesn't deny the fact that you're a murderer, nonetheless everyone here as well."

"W-what're you talking about?" Tomoyo was hurt. "That's just based on mere speculation!"

"Do you really believe that?" The woman frowned, staring at the screenwriter. "Besides, just look at how Blaise is acting right now. Isn't he just bloodthirsty?"

"Do I have no right to be?" Akio clenched into his fists. "You fucking killed Wakana for a stupid reason! Couldn't you just kill me instead? What, do you just want my fucking status to go lower and lower? Everyone already suspects me of shit anyways!"

"See?" Kiyoko's lips began to curve into a smile. A mocking, broken smile. "He's acting like a murderer! You should all be focusing on him instead!"

Masako was horrified, cowering. "G-guys…"

Akio shook his head. "Fuck, why did you kill Wakana? Why make her death so horrible?"

"You really want to know?" Kiyoko chuckled, fingers moving carelessly around the jar. "It's because of you. You're the murderer. You're a serial killer, and… Hell, no, actually, everyone here's a killer."

"What…?" Tomoyo sniffled. "What does that mean…?"

"Are you crazy?" Kyatchi asked, baffled. "What the hell are you talking about, woman?"

"Don't you realize it?" Kiyoko was beginning to laugh more and more, voice becoming more and more breathless. "You are all murderers. Even if you don't realize it, you're all killers. You're all worthless scum. It's not only Blaise who's a murderer, but you all as well."

"What?" Hitomu's smile fell. He honestly didn't know how else to respond. "You believe that…?"

"Well, obviously!" The woman threw her hands out. "I realized it so much earlier right after Blaise was classified as such. I honestly doubted Wakana at first… but I eventually came into the realization that she herself was a serial killer! I was the only one who isn't one!"

"I… I quite don't understand," Blanchard began, a worried look on his face. "Master Kiyoko, your reasoning for killing Master Wakana was because of your care for your family. I have yet to hear of your… rather strange mindset on her being a serial killer."

"You're insane," was all Yume said.

"Y-yeah!" Ayako was fidgeting about in place. "Y-you said that you wanted to kill to stop Monokuma from potentially harming your family and that you won't target me if I helped you… T-that's why I told you about Wakana meeting Blaise! You wanted a perfect victim! Y-you never said anything like this! Did you snap or something?"

"I didn't snap at all," Kiyoko said, now glaring at the fashion model. "I came to the realization that this world needs to be rid of people like you. I rather be a murderer who kills criminals than to stand here surrounded by them."

"But…" The shorter woman couldn't help but flinch. "W-wasn't it only Blaise who was called a murderer? It's not even proven that he's one!"

"You keep changing your opinion about him. Is it because you expect him to forgive you now?" Kiyoko sighed, shaking her head. "You really are scum."

"What the hell's wrong with you?" Akio's face was red. Anger was overwhelming his body completely. "So you fucking killed Wakana because you thought she was a killer?! Watari only said that I was one!"

The recreation worker scoffed. "You could easily come into the conclusion that if someone here was a killer, then the rest are. I know this is fact, and I am not going to explain to you why."

"That's fucked up!" The actor screamed, rage boiling in his head. "You literally just killed her based on your stupid assumptions! You're the killer! Not any of us here!"

Kiyoko chuckled. She placed the jar slowly down to the table. "Like I said, this is fact, and I am not going to explain why I believe it so. Your behavior is already telling enough as it is. It makes me wonder if Wakana would've acted the same way if you died."

"What the fuck?" Akio froze. A moment passed between his registering her words and between his stunned state. "You really believe she's a killer?"

"I won't answer it any longer." Kiyoko's gaze was focused down to the table. "This trial was fun while it lasted. Even if I was caught, that doesn't mean I can't do anymore than I am right now."

"What?" Tomoyo's voice was shaking. "What does that mean?"

Kiyoko was silent for a moment. She began to open the jar, holding it firmly in her hands afterwards.

She swung her body around, and the alcohol was thrown. Liquids flew everywhere in the air, tainting the ground and tables around.

Keishi couldn't help but worry. "What are you…?"

Kiyoko grinned. "Don't worry."

"Wait…" Masako eyed the scene, only to be taken aback within seconds. "K-Kiyoko, wait!"

Akio's eyes widened. The woman had taken out a matchbox.

What the fuck? The actor's heart was pounding, eyes diluted in fear. Is she planning to kill us all?!

"Hey-!"

"AW HELL NAW!"

Before anyone had a second to register what was going on, Kiyoko was suddenly at the air, the matchbox gone from her hands and her body unable to move. Two monochrome hands had roughly grabbed ahold of the recreation worker, lifting her by the arms. She was now hanging up in the air, unable to free herself.

Kiyoko helplessly kicked at the air before her attention was focused down. She was growling with her teeth out, targeted at one specific person- "M-Monokuma!"

There was Monokuma, his foot pressed down harshly on a button. It was a golden button that was shaped like a skull- a symbolism of death. The overseer was glaring madly at the woman, claws out from his paws.

"Who the fuck are you to mess with my children?!" He cried, voice low and growly. "Murder is accepted in my little world, but in a trial?! This is a killing game, not a 'end everyone in one hit' game! God, did I not make a limit of how many people you can kill?!"

"Uh…" Misaki was clearly eager to ruin the tension, cold sweat raining down her face. "Not really?"

"Oh fuck, seriously?!" Monokuma's mouth hung completely agape. He then threw out a monstrous, animalistic scream as he kicked at the air. "FUCK!"

Everyone jumped at the sudden scream. It was too high-pitched and monstrous for their ears to comprehend. It was horrifying.

"Well, that fucking makes sense then." The overseer's smile was bitter. He looked back up to Kiyoko. "Let me guess then- you planned on killing everyone here. If it weren't for the class trial, you would've killed them once sooner."

Kiyoo scoffed, eyes still glaring bullets. "Why the hell should I tell you?"

"You don't need to." Monokuma chuckled, now looking back to the Ultimates. "I'm watching everything. I know everything you guys do, think, plan… Everything. It's a fact that you planned to kill Wakana to have people frame Akio as the murderer, and then when the attention is focused on him you'll kill more and more. People will continue to blame Akio, and you'll be free to murder."

"Seriously?" Viorel suddenly found himself talking. "Fuck, what's wrong with her?"

Blanchard didn't even try to correct him.

"The class trial would've been easy to avoid if it weren't for Watari." The bear's tone was now mocking, almost carefree and playful to the point of sounding like a toddler. "He knows everything already, and so he works as my little helper."

"I-I can't believe that…" Shinjimae stuttered. He was hugging tightly onto Saki. "... I-it's just not p-possible…"

Hitomu shook his head, attention thrown at the detective. "So was it true that Blaise's a murderer?"

Watari eyed him for a moment. He then scoffed, throwing him a wry smirk. "I really rather not answer. You people always interpret thing in either the correct or wrong way anyways~"

"Give credit where it's due though," the bear said, amused. "You all participated greatly in this trial. It's a shame that the murderer herself didn't press for her innocence more though… It wasn't as heart-racing as I wanted it to! Then again, that's probably because I didn't explain what the punishment is. A double-sided coin, I must say!"

"Right…" Kyatchi cautiously eyed Kiyoko. "What is this punishment anyway? It's not to write 'I'm sorry for killing someone' on the board ten times, right?"

"Of course not, idiot." Monokuma groaned, rolling his eyes. "It's a shame though. The idea of what a punishment is can vary from person to person. The word 'punishment' is a joke to others, but to some it isn't. Maybe that's why people wanted to vote earlier! They didn't know of the consequences!"

"Of course they didn't," the detective mused. "It was too vague for them to know for sure… Then again, for a trial, the punishment should've been at least thought of as 'severe'."

"What could Monokuma do though?" Tomoyo asked, her expression disheartened. "What sort of punishment will Kiyoko get?"

Monokuma was silent for a moment.

A few seconds passed.

Suddenly, the bear began laughing. He was laughing loudly into the alcohol-smelling room, throwing his head back and having his paws clenching right at his stomach.

He was laughing for hours on end. It was endless.

"This will be so despair-inducing!" He cried, almost a full on two minutes of laughing having been induced. "Aw man! THIS here is one of the reasons why I was so vague about the punishment!"

"What…" Ayako was trembling. "... does that mean?"

Monokuma's mouth began to drool. "Pfft! Obviously, if someone is killed, that person would want that killer to die, right?!"

Kiyoko's face paled.

"Kiyoko and Akio were so gung-ho about this shit as well!" The bear grinned. "Justice will be served! The murderers will pay for their actions!"

"W-wait a second…" Masako found herself unable to breathe, her entire face white. "A-are you suggesting t-that Kiyoko will die…?"

"Of course I am! Haven't you guys ever heard of the death penalty?!"

"Death penalty?!" Tomoyo jumped at those words, eyes wide in fear. She looked up to Kiyoko, then back to the overseer. "M-Monokuma, excuse me, but this can't be the case! It's not moral!"

Monokuma laughed. "Such a controversial topic, eh Kyatchi!"

"Don't speak to me," was all the juggler said, having ignored the bear completely.

"I don't mind dying."

Tomoyo was shocked. Her lips were quivering as she helplessly tried to find her friend's gaze. "K-Kiyoko? Why?!"

Kiyoko was silent. She looked down at Tomoyo before shaking her head. "I honestly couldn't care less about dying… That is, except for the fact that you guys aren't dead!"

The screenwriter was stunned, forced into silence. A mixture of fear and disappointment was on her face.

"Why can't you let me kill them?!" Kiyoko screamed, anger suddenly directed back at Monokuma. "You want us to kill one another! I'm doing you a favor here!"

"Girl, this is a killing game. Your sense of 'justice' or whatever shit you spew means nothing to my rules." Monokuma wagged a finger back and forth, amused. "If they are serial killers or whatnot, what makes you so sure you aren't one?"

"Because I'm obviously not one!" The recreation worker began thrashing about. "Just let me kill them! I'm gonna die with them anyways! What's your use in these bastards anyways?!"

The bear rolled his eyes. "Because I want a killing game? I'm sorry if I didn't specify how many you can kill, but like… Girl, you're fucking crazy. You really went insane with your want to kill… uh, the serial killers or whatnot."

Kiyoko continued to thrash around. "Just let me kill them! I need to kill them!"

"Anyways!" Monokuma's attention went straight back to the group. "I'm not too mean though. You guys deserve a bit of fun too!"

Keishi worriedly cupped his hands together. "What does that mean?"

"Fun! F-U-N… Fun!" Monokuma clapped his hands together. He jumped down from his pedestal, having spun around in a circle. "Since you guys were able to figure out who the killer is, you get to choose how you want to execute her!"

"Wait, what?"

"But first off- fucking vote! I need you all to vote so we can get this started!"

"Um… what?"

"VOTE!"

Everyone was dumbfounded as they were shooed back to their seats. Slowly, and obviously hesitantly, the votes had been made.

VOTING TIME

CHOOSE THE BLACKENED OF THIS CASE!

Akio 'Blaise' Fukui

Yume Hamasaki

Hitomu Mizushima

Ayako Aoki

Blanchard/Viorel Decebel

Tomoyo Ikeda

Watari Irino

Masako Shinohara

Shinjimae 'Shinji' Akahoshi

-Wakana Takane-

Kyatchi Sesshoku

Kiyoko Yamagiri

Keishi Kari

Misaki Ueda

Monokuma laughed as everyone looked up to him. "Don't worry! Even if you all look confused, Mr. Monokuma here will be nice enough to tell you all what the fuck happened… and then we can start this whole despair-inducing shit!"

VOTING RESULTS

Kiyoko Yamagiri: 12 Votes

Didn't Vote: 1

Answer: Kiyoko Yamagiri

RIGHT!

"And would you look at that!" The overseer clapped loudly inside of the room. He completely ignored the smell of sweet, sweet alcohol in the air. "You guys are right! The killer is Kiyoko Yamagiri, not her stupid little twats who listened to every word she said!"

Akio stared blankly at the computer screen, watching the confetti fall from the gambling-like slot machine. It should've been something that he'd call disgusting, completely out of taste-

-but it wasn't.

Instead, he felt complete and utter joy. He was victorious. He had avenged Wakana.

"So it was true…" Tomoyo's head hung low. She was completely silent now, eyes downcast. She refused to meet anyone's gaze.

Akio grabbed at his heart. He closed his eyes.

I'm not feeling guilty at all.

A friend of mine died… Wakana died, and I caught the person who did. The fucking asshole who thought such stupid bull-!

Akio quickly opened his eyes, now looking at Monokuma. "Did we have to vote though? It's already obvious beforehand that she was the killer."

Monokuma nodded. "Of course it is! It's proper etiquette to follow the rules!"

"B-but still…" Shinjimae was teary-eyed. "A-are you r-really g-going to execute… K-Kiyoko…?"

"I'm rather intrigued on this 'fun' part," Watari said, completely ignoring Shinjimae. The detective smugly grinned at Monokuma. "You want us to choose how she dies?"

"Why're you so calm about this?" Viorel asked, disgusted as he eyed the detective. "Do you want to choose how she dies?"

Blanchard forcibly switched the eyepatch. "If anything, her death should be… relaxing. Peaceful and without pain."

Akio couldn't help but disagree.

"Not like I'm gonna be that nice." Monokuma rolled his eyes. "Idiots! You just have to choose between a few colors!"

Masako held her hands together. She darted her eyes up at Kiyoko and down to Monokuma, back and forth. "That's…"

"That's stupid," Yume murmured.

Hitomu bit into his lips, but forced himself to move. "You're… going to explain this to us, right?"

The bear nodded excitedly. "Of course! Do you want the long explanation of how Kiyoko came to this, or the short one?"

The cat keeper stalled for a moment. He quickly shook his head and smile awkwardly. "Just explain everything."

"Alright! Then let's get this storytelling started!"

MONOKUMA'S ONE-TIME CLOSING ARGUMENT

Monokuma: Here's what happened, bitches!

Once upon a time- ah fuck it, let's just get on with this!

Well, after I gave you all the motive everyone began freaking out. The fucking idiots you are, you all decided to try reuniting as one, though smartypants Keishi, Masako, and Watari weren't. You guys' little unity was ruined instantly when Watari came in and denounced Akio as a murderer! That led to you guys dropping that stupid hope shit, and it led to y'all suspecting each other.

Kiyoko- oh shit, I mean, the murderer had thought that not only was Akio a murderer, but that everyone else was. Were they thinking of this out of spite? Out of fear? Well, it doesn't matter! … Maybe they did, and that's why they conversed with our victim…

Anyways! The murderer decided that in order to protect their family, or, to be honest- their want to kill everyone led them to planning this murder. Their first thought went like this- "Hey! People believe that Aki's a killer and shit, so why not use this to your advantage?" However, who would be a perfect victim? How will this lead to the framing of Akio? Well, the answer was right in front of them…

You see, the killer wanted to gain allies. Decebel and Ayako were their allies. Reasons? Decebel will do anything requested of them. Ayako, on the other hand… She was scared, and she was most likely threatened to help the murderer. Wanting to guarantee that she herself wouldn't be killed, she decided to listen to the murderer and help out in any way possible… That is, well, to hear from Misaki about Wakana!

Ayako had heard about Wakana's plan to meet Akio. This was perfect! This led to Ayako telling the murderer of this, and the murderer, along with her and Decebel, began their plan.

Before setting up this whole shit though, the killer and Wakana had been talking inside of the chatroom. Maybe the killer was genuine, maybe they weren't… Who knows? The killer was warning Wakana about Akio, and this led to Wakana arguing with them. It ended up going horribly though, so that might've been good for the killer's own self-conscious.

Welp! Anyways, the plan had been initiated. After hearing from Ayako, the killer told them of this plan. The tools were prepared- the duct tape, the weapon of choice, etc. Ayako went inside of the ventilation to place in a space heater, an attempt to cause carbon monoxide poisoning. Decebel had helped opened the vent, and the temperature had been raised to lower Akio and Wakana's suspicion.

This plan went perfectly. Akio and Wakana hadn't a clue of what was coming. Decebel as a butler having cleaned outside worked perfectly in their favor, and the leads to Ayako being a killer would leave the killer to run away, free of charge… Well, the plan did work, however the killer had another plan… which I'll talk about afterwards.

After Decebel had made sure that Akio and Wakana had blacked out, the killer instantly went in to do their job. Having gotten a knife from the kitchen and prepared duct tape, the killer instantly taped Wakana's mouth and used their clothes as a rope, choking her to death. Wakana most likely woken up by this shit, and she most likely tried to call for help… Oh, the despair! How beautiful- oh, right.

Ahem! After Wakana had died and the killer put back their clothing, they ripped the duct tape off. They then used the knife to cut Wakana's limbs apart, then stabbing a flower into her chest. There was no pain done as Wakana's a corpse now, but it was merely done as a sign of disgust for her and to frame Akio further as a murderer.

… Alright, so that had been done, but what the killer stole from the kitchen was not just the kitchen. You see, the killer didn't tell anyone this, not even their own accomplices… The killer had been planning to kill everyone from the start! They had put alcohol inside of a Mason jar and brought a lighter to burn down the place! How scandalous! Good thing I put an end to it, eh?

Well, anyways… BAM!

I got it- the murderer is Kiyoko Yamagiri, the Ultimate Recreation Worker!

BREAK!

Monokuma grinned happily, meekly scratching at the back of his head. "Ehehehe, I really should be a detective. This is fun to do."

"Did they have to know that?" Kiyoko asked, retorting. "They don't deserve the luxury of knowing shit!"

"T-this…" Shinjimae gulped. "T-this seriously d-doesn't m-make sense."

"Nothing makes sense." Misaki's hands were in her pockets. "Nothing…"

"Anyways, enough about that!" The overseer clapped his hands together. "So, here are the colors to choose from- red, white, or blue?"

Masako jumped. "W-wait! We're choosing already?!"

"Do these colors symbolize anything?" Watari asked, grinning at the bear. "Anything in particular?"

"Hm? Not really."

Hitomu shook his head, eyes coloring in sympathy for the recreation worker. "I don't want to choose…"

"Do we need to take a vote again?" Monokuma watched the group who were silent. A sigh escaped his mouth. "Alright, fine. Guys, place your votes!"

The screen suddenly brightened. There was another voting ballot to be seen, glowing in shiny gold.

"Remember, you have to vote or else you'll join Kiyoko in fucking Hell!"

That seemed to convince everyone. They slowly began to observe the screen.

Akio frowned. It was there. The choices were right there, even bolded in the colors- red, white, and blue.

What to choose… He wondered, tapping on his chin. Which one should I choose…

VOTING TIME

PICK YOUR BLACKENED'S FATE!

Red

White

Blue

"Nice!" He could hear the bear saying. "Everyone already voted! This is awesome!"

VOTING RESULTS

Red - 5 Votes

White - 4 Votes

Blue - 3 Votes

RED IS THE WINNER!

"Ah, I see, I see… So red's the winner…" Monokuma seemed intrigued, nodding without fail. "Well, your first instinct is to go for red, or so I've been told!"

Watari eyed the screen with interest, then looking back to the bear. "Does it really matter which color we vote for though? Doesn't it take time to prepare an execution, hm?"

The bear snickered, looking over to Watari. "When it comes to shit like executions, I'm more than willing to be in debt!"

"I'm strangely not surprised," Yume said, seemingly annoyed.

"This is so cruel…" Masako murmured to herself, on the verge of tears. "P-poor Kiyoko…"

"Hmph, showing me your pity is stupid." Kiyoko glared at the woman. "If you want to apologize, then why don't you die instead?"

The survivalist instantly cowered. "Eek!"

"Don't say that!" Hitomu's tone was drastically different from usual- aggressive and desperate. "Monokuma, can't there be anything done to prevent this?"

Monokuma didn't answer, only amused.

"May I suggest something?"

Viorel gasped. "Blanchard, you ass, don't-"

"What if I were to be executed instead?" He asked, attention completely focused on the overseer. "I had participated in this murder, so is it fair if I ask myself to be in her place instead?"

The bear smirked. "Like I'd be that nice, Blanchie."

"I believe that-"

The eyepatch was switched. Viorel looked completely agitated by this, but said nothing. He merely scoffed and averted his gaze.

"Hmph." The woman then turned to Akio. "Well, are you happy? Are you happy now?"

Akio rolled his eyes, looking up at the woman. His lips curved into an involuntarily smile. "I have nothing else to say to you."

"Jesus Christ, your personality went 180 there." Kyatchi couldn't help but comment, a wry, albeit forced, smirk.

Tomoyo was still silent, arms folded and gaze meeting nothing but the ground's.

"Welp, if that's all there is to be said, let's begin!"

Everyone's eyes widened.

Monokuma jumped back to the top of the pedestal. A sudden javel was on his hands.

"Let's begin this despair-inducing execution! Ground-breaking, I tell you!"

The arms carrying Kiyoko began to move. She was suddenly lifted high into the air, far up to where the ceiling was.

The ceiling opened, and suddenly Kiyoko was thrown up.

"The red room, where all the blood-curling shit is- LET'S DO THIS!"

GAME OVER

Kiyoko Yamagiri has been found guilty.

EXECUTION START!

Red Room - Fun Activity

Kiyoko found herself inside of a red room.

A red, very dark red, bloody room. There was nothing off about the room other than its dark color. It was unfitting for a casual, comfortable room. If anything, the room seemed to have been in crimson blood.

It looked like it, but hopefully that wasn't the case. She hoped it wasn't the case.

She looked around the room for a moment. It was completely empty.

What is going on?

A sudden tune was heard. A playful, childlike tune on the flute.

Kiyoko blinked.

A sudden mess of items were in the middle of the room.

Baseballs. Basketballs. Canoes. Fishing poles.

Everything that Kiyoko recognized that she had used in her work as a recreation worker. The same, exact tools.

Why are my stuff here?

Kiyoko quickly stood up.

The room suddenly blacked out.

It flickered.

Suddenly, surrounding the women, were children.

"Kiyoko…"

Her eyes widened. Black figures were holding hands, having entrapped Kiyoko in her closed space. She was near the mess of items, eyeing the silhouettes of children. Her eyes were diluted in fear.

"What are we going to do today, Kiyoko?"

Kiyoko was in utter shock. She didn't know what to say.

Her hands reached the mess, but she suddenly found herself yelping.

Her eyes looked back. The mess had instead turned into weapons, her fingers having been cut through a butcher knife. Knives, chainsaws, and guns were to be seen in the mess.

"Let's play, Kiyoko. Let's play."

Laughter echoed throughout the room.

Without even realizing it, the kids were holding weapons in hands. Kiyoko's eyes widened. She immediately reached for a weapon in the cluttered mess-

-but nothing was there.

"Kiyoko, let's play!"

"Yeah, we want to play some more games with you! You always know how to make us entertained!"

Kiyoko stood up, unable to do anything. The kids were continuing to laugh, all sorts of weaponry in hand. Knives, chainsaws, everything were to be seen.

She was helpless. She was unable to do anything as the kids jumped at her body, beginning to claw at her.

Knives sliced through her body. Cuts and slashes.

Gunshots were heard. Screams were heard.

The sound of guts being smashed in echoed throughout the room.

Blood splattered from place to place. Her clothes were completely soaked.

The kids continued to laugh.

They were dancing happily around the dead body, throwing their weapons down on the corpse.

"Should we play surgeon next?"

"Ooh, let's do that!"

The kids happily jumped around.

A scoopula was brought close to the corpse.

"Let's check if there's any infections in your eye!"

"Yeah! This is so much fun!"

"Thanks for playing with us, Kiyoko!"

It was a fun, fun activity.

A fun activity of death.

Everyone was in shock, unable to hear anything but the children's laughter. The room was completely surrounded by recordings of the execution- on the computer screens, on the ceiling, all over the room.

It was impossible to look away.

"Well, how interesting- ooh! There it is- her eyes were gouged out." Monokuma smiled, watching the screen from his seat. He even had the luxury to throw a grape in his mouth, nibbling on it.

Misaki was stunned. She couldn't move from her position. Even as a surgeon she couldn't help but feel sick, her cheeks flushed of its healthy color.

"Oh my god… M-make it stop…" Shinjimae was crying, having been shrieking for the past couple of minutes. He was now tucked away, head inside of Saki's fur.

"Guess that's settled." Monokuma cleared his throat. He pressed a silver-colored button, the recordings now having disappeared. He looked over to the Ultimates. "So, how was it?"

"Brutal," was all Yume said, indifferent in her tone.

Kyatchi threw his head back, laughing.

Ayako was completely shocked. Her mouth hung agape as she turned to the juggler, snot and tears falling from her face. "W-why're you laughing?!"

"Oh!" Monokuma smiled. "You liked it, Kya?"

Kyatchi shook his head, wiping a tear. "No, I just find it hilarious how over the top it was. It caught me off guard there. Is this some circus performance or something?"

"Just shut it, Kyatchi!" Ayako cried, teary. "It's not something to laugh at!"

The juggler sighed. "I'm not laughing at Kiyoko dying, but at how stupid this whole charade is. It's amazing that Monokuma would be so over the top about that. It's just stupid."

"Hmph, well, that isn't very nice." The bear crossed his arms. He glared at Kyatchi before then smiling, looking to the others. "So, what would you rate that execution? Geez, I wished you guys would've seen the white and blue executions for her, but whatever. This execution was fine."

"Be quiet, please." Keishi's entire face was pale. "This is… frightening…"

"Having a panic attack or some shit?" Monokuma groaned. "Whatever. Guess I don't need your opinions. You guys were the ones who chose this execution, not me."

"W-wait." Masako's voice was breathless. "W-what would've h-happened if w-we were wrong with the vote?"

Watari smiled, quickly interjecting into the conversation. "We'd all be executed just like how Kiyoko was."

"Damn… That's scary." Akio was shocked. Honestly though, he should've expected it. He recalled back to Kiyoko's bloodied corpse, then shuddering. To think about him and the others going through the same thing was horrifying. Chills were instantly sent down through his spine.

Still, no matter how horrifying that was, Akio couldn't help but inwardly smile at this little victory of his.

Well, good thing we survived this whole shit… At least Wakana had been avenged.

A yawn. "Well, shitheads, I wasted my whole bedtime for this." Monokuma waved to the group. "I'm gonna go now. Don't worry. You guys will instantly go back to the school in a few minutes. Just wait for the system to boot up."

Hitomu's eyes widened. "Wait a second-"

Monokuma was gone. He had disappeared from the scene.

Everyone was silent in their demise.

Akio, in the meantime, tasted sweet revenge in his mouth.

... And here is the end of this chapter! The aftermath will come out soon (hopefully), and with the end of this case means that I can finally shift back the focus to Disparity's case! Haha, well, the chapter here wasn't more of a mystery, but more of 'wtf' thing instead.

Anyways, school's coming slowly into existence, and I might update these chapters and Disparity's slower than usual... But fear not! I have the motivation to continue these two stories and to complete them! I do not want to disappoint you guys after all. Anyways, till next time~