Hello, and welcome to the official class trial for our first case! Thank you all for your support and your suggestions, it means a whole lot to me! I am glad to see that all of you are thinking about the case and who the murderer could be. This will be a fun ride, I can assure you that! Also, please feel free to point out any mistakes or flaws in this chapter so I can fix them! This is my first time writing a class trial after all, so help is always appreciated! I'm always open for suggestions and criticism, after all.
ToonGuy: "Glad to hear from you again! Anyways, yeah, Ko's death will not be in vain, as the trial is meant to bring light to what happened! And thank you for reviewing and commenting your thoughts! Haha, I'm glad Kakuma shines in that regard then ^^. You have very interesting theories, let us hope they are right (or not if you want)."
liammarklh88: "I'm glad you liked it! I was hoping the investigation would be simple and exciting to read! Haha, don't worry, hope will always be around the corner for anyone. Nah, I wouldn't set Monokuma that low to Onision's standards. Onision is real, after all. I hope I will do your expectations justice then. Yes, I have heard of that. Unfortunately, being singled out happens a lot in life. You're a good writer as well, so keep it up with your story! Hope you have a great day!"
PoisonBanana: "Nice to see your comments! Interesting to see your list of suspects. Very interesting indeed. And thank you for the suggestion, I definitely took it into consideration!"
zephryr: "Haha, well, the investigation always sheds light to something. Interesting to see your comments about the truth bullets. It interests me to know your thoughts as each clue is being found. Let's see if your deductions are right!"
DryBonesKing: "I'm happy that I am able to confuse so many people then, mwahaha! I'm glad that there's still a Danganronpa feel to this, heh. It's nice to see your thoughts on your prime suspects and how the murder could've worked. I'm interested to see your thoughts as the trial starts... I'm glad I'm doing your Kamui justice!"
TheRoseShadow21: "I'm glad this case is proving to be difficult! I was hoping I wasn't being too cliched or straightforward with how the murder went! Yes, a lot of the people in this story should be realistic. I'm glad you're liking Kakuma and Kamui more though. Yes, Kamui does appreciate and respect the death, so Monokuma saying no did piss him off. Thank you for the kind words!"
irwegwert: "Hello! Nice to hear from you (or you as a guest reviewer), even if you forgot some of your initial thoughts! I'm loving your thoughts and it makes me interested in seeing how you will respond to the trial itself! It is interesting to see your suspects and how you think the murder might've been planned out! And thank you for the suggestion! Yeah, FanFiction is really messed up these days, but don't worry! I believe in you..."
SoulfulGinger17: "Wow, it is nice to hear from you! I always love your inputs and constructive criticism, they really do help me a lot whenever I write. I'm glad I posted the last chapter on your birthday, and have a really belated happy birthday from me then! You honestly made me sad when I read about Seiga's comparison to Kaito, because damn, I love Kaito so much. Interesting inputs, and interesting comments on the characters too! It's nice to see some disdain for some characters as it does make me sure I'm not writing the characters too 'ideally' in any case. Thanks for the wonderful review!"
Minori watched Monokuma as he laughed, walking over to the group with a sinister smile. "Upupupu! Welcome to the official trial grounds! How does it look? Does it get your heart racing? Your blood pumping?!"
"Really looks like a courtroom, huh?" Seiga awkwardly smiled. He was scratching his head and laughing, almost trying to force the situation to mediate itself. However, the tension was just overwhelming.
"This is sick," Kaniza said, biting into her lips. She couldn't even begin to look at the bear. "Is this really some sort of sick game to you?"
"You do wanna know who killed your damn classmate, right? Don't you wanna know who killed your classmate and berate them to death? Well, do you?" Monokuma stared at the astrophotographer. He threw his arms out. "Then shut it! Just stop whining about how 'sick' this shit is and get to it!"
The knight frowned. "May I ask why must you force us to do a class trial?"
Monokuma laughed. "Shit, I don't know, because that's how life works? I don't know what kinda answer will satisfy you guys." He scratched the back of his ear and began to walk back, then hopping to the overseer's chair. A martini appeared from the air and he held onto the glass, a royal presence surrounding him. "Criminals are always faced with this sort of trial shit. It's the same here. A guy gets murdered, and then a trial commences for us poor citizens to figure out 'whodunnit'. It's simple as that!"
Kamui observed the room for a moment before sighing, crossing his arms. "You said that the culprit will be punished, the supposed 'blackened'. What, if I might ask, would that 'punishment' be?"
Monokuma's smile began to widen. A creepy, creepy smile. "Upupupu, that's a surprise."
Minori couldn't help but shudder. The idea of a punishment was scary enough as it was, and with Monokuma laughing so excitably about it made his heart race. He couldn't even breathe unless he had commanded himself to do so.
"Now, now, students. Let's stop asking ridiculous questions and start this trial. I'm just dying for this to start." Monokuma sipped into his drink, however it was more like he had pretended to. Minori wasn't even sure if the martini was real or not. "Please situate yourselves around the pedestals and stand in front of where your nametags are."
Ryoichi fiddled with his fingers. "...Do we have to?"
The group hesitated, but were left with little to no choice as they began to move. They began to move around the courtroom and look for their nametags hidden inside of the pedestal. Minori was able to find his, silvery letters engraved into the rear of his position as he stood atop of the area. His hands touched the smooth wood of the pedestal as his heart continued to race. His hands were shaking as he took a few breaths.
This trial will either shed light on the truth, or end up miserably in the dark. It all depends on us to shed light to Ko's death and to figure out who killed him.
Minori's hands were sweaty, knees were heavy. He knew the pressure was overwhelming. He knew things could end up on both ends of the spectrum. Either the blackened will be punished, or everyone else. For what damn punishment Monokuma will lash out, Minori didn't know. However, just the word was enough to scare him.
It didn't take long until everyone had situated around one another. Minori was next to Kamui to the right, Rin to the left. In front of Minori across the courtroom was Kakuma who was silent, a disgusted expression on his face. The pseudologist was looking around the room, eyeing each of his classmates out of a desperation for comfort until the headmaster began to speak.
"Upupupu! Great, now that we're all settled, let's get a few things first!" Monokuma rubbed his paws together, excited. "Remember, this is a trial of life and death! It would be wise to check your information first and foremost."
The pseudologist's eyes widened. He held his breath and slowly took out his MonoPad. Monokuma did have a point, perhaps. Damn, I'm freaking out. I should go over the evidence just in case. Calm yourself, Minori.
List of Truth Bullets
Case File 01 - The victim to be found was Haruko Yoshikawa. His body was discovered in the infirmary. The estimated time of dead was around 4:50 PM, halfway into the day. Haruko's death was caused by Type B Poison, however he had been drugged heavily with sleeping powder and a pill hours before his initial time of death. The mixture of these medicine caused Haruko to be drowsy throughout the day. There are no traces of outer injuries other than a bump to the head.
Bump on Head - Haruko has a bump on the back of his head. It seemed to have been a recent wound, recent to the extent of having happened during his time of death. The bump was swollen.
Circular Rings - There are red circular rings that have formed around Haruko's eyelids.
Enlarged Eyes - Haruko's pupils have enlarged.
Lips - There is drool in the corner of the chocolatier's lips, however traces of red liquid is to be seen within the drool.
Type B Poison - This red liquid is poison and has been used to kill Haruko. Taking even a teaspoon of this poison would kill a person under five minutes. The symptoms are the following- enlargement of pupils, excessive drooling, increase of heart rate, and redness of the face.
Sense of Time - Monokuma has said from the morning announcement that the lights would be shut down about halfway through the day. However, he didn't specifiy on what 'halfway' meant. It is safe to say that by what Monokuma meant by 'halfway' meant that the time span was from the morning announcement to nighttime. That would mean that the lights would be shut off around three.
Sirens - Added to the lights being shut off throughout the day, sirens would also be sounded off as well. This would lead to mostly everything being cancelled out due to the noise of the sirens blaring.
Alibis (Tunnel) - The people who can check each other for alibis during their trip down from the lab room are Minori, Seiga, Kamui, Amyto, Kaniza, Sagiso, and Rin. They were all inside of the tunnel when the lights were turned on as well.
Lack of Alibis (Lost) - The people who were lost during the trip down from the lab room are Asami, Nezumi, Saori, Ryoichi, and Sheina.
Charity to the Sick - Kaniza had given the sick their meals and medicine. She had provided them a cup of water, their pills, and their meals. However, it is said that the sicks' cups have been labeled with their names.
Saori's Alibi - Saori said that she had met with the people who had been lost after the lights turned on. She also said she heard Ryoichi's voice faintly while she was lost.
Flu Remedy - These were the pills used to treat the sick. Kaniza had most likely picked them as there are four pills missing from the batch.
MonoLottery! Room - From inspection, there seemed to be nothing that can be used as a source of light.
Tunnel - The flight of stairs were narrow, but as the tunnel goes on it starts to widen and is spacious. It should've been fairly easy to lose your way if you were either bad at directions or if it was dark.
01110000... Poison - This strange type of poison had been used as the motive of this case. Apparently from the warnings, the symptoms which would be caused from whiffing the poison are the following- an increase in temperature. Taking a whiff from the poison is strongly advised against, however it wouldn't kill someone. In worst cases, the poison would only cause a flu.
Haruko's Platter - Haruko seemed to have eaten most of his food and drank his water. He had taken his pill as well and his name had been labeled.
Asami's Testimony - Asami said that she was the last person to enter into the tunnel and is most likely the first to head back to the lab room after the lights had been turned back on.
Order of the Lost - From to the lab room, the order of people who were lost were Asami, Sheina, Nezumi, Ryoichi, and Saori.
Kaniza's Testimony - Kaniza had wanted to prepare special meals for the sick, so Kamui suggested she should label them with the sick's names accordingly. She had prepared the meals alongside Kamui, Sagiso, and Asami.
Sleeping Powder - A opened, used packet of sleeping powder was found in the trash can inside of the dining hall. It was hidden within some tissues and seemed to have been completely used. The label says that if used, sleep would be take place in about half an hour, and the effects last for about half a day if taken in high dosage. However, one must make sure to not use more than a packet of powder, or else death may take place. The powder must be mixed in with liquid.
"Upupupu! Is everyone good? Well, I'm not gonna wait much longer!" Monokuma's voice was as loud as cab be. "Ahem! Let's start off with a simple explanation. Your guys' votes will determine the outcome of this trial. Pinpoint the true culprit of this trial, and only the blackened will be punished. However, if you choose anyone besides the blackened..." The headmaster's voice began to grow heatedly excited. "...then everyone besides them will be punished, and then the blackened can graduate scot free and with no charges!"
Nezumi bit his lips. "S-so, uh... h-how do we start?"
Seiga threw his hands over his sides. "Hey, I got an idea! Yo, if you're the culprit, speak up! Be a man and confess!"
Silence.
"Are you serious?" Kakuma groaned and slapped himself against the forehead. "It's obvious that the killer won't just blurt their crime to us so easily."
The stunt double shrugged. "Worth a shot."
The wedding planner rolled his eyes before shooting a look directed towards Monokuma. "I have one question."
"Hm?" Monokuma tilted his head. "Wuzzup?"
Kakuma pointed to the empty pedestal, everyone directing their attention to see Haruko's portrait being shown from a tall stand. Haruko's cheerful, bright face was seen with an x-mark across the frame. A pink, bloody x-mark. If anything, it was uncomfortable to look at. "What the hell is that?"
"Oh, that?" Monokuma chuckled. "I know you all must be so sad to see your friend die, so I decided that putting his portrait there on the frame would make you guys feel reunited again! Y'know, something like 'the souls of the afterlife are always watching over you to protect you' or whatever? Well, I was aiming for that. Makes you feel happy and excited now, huh?"
"That's an insult to his soul." Kamui glared at the bear.
"Well, shit! Fine then!" Monokuma grumbled inaudibly in the background and sunk into his seat. He was now silent and pouting.
Amyto shook her head. "Anyways, guys, so how do we start? I mean, to discuss his death and all..."
"How does a trial go anyways?" Seiga asked, tilting his head. "I rather just beat up the bad guy and call it a day! Let fists do the talking!"
Sagiso frowned and cupped her chin. "Since this isn't a normal trial, I think we should start by going over the basics. Since there are no prosecutors nor defendants in this case and since the murderer is unknown, I think we should first go over what had happened during the time of Ko's death and fill in the blanks."
Kamui nodded. "Agreed. It would certainly help those who were sick more as well."
"Well, Kamui did tell us most of it," Fuwari mumbled as she fiddled with her fingers. "But, a second run-through of the case would be fine."
Asami smiled brightly. "Alright! Since we got that settled, let's go over what Seiga had planned! Seiga, please start us off!"
The stunt double laughed boisterously, hands on his hips. "Hahaha! Alright, so, I'm gonna tell you supporting characters about the plan I came up with!"
The pseudologist crossed his arms and began to take a deep breath, his MonoPad still close to his chest. He closed his eyes, calming himself, then began to observe his classmates. He was now concentrated entirely on what Seiga and the others would say. Alright, let's see if anyone either missed or messed something up about what happened.
NONSTOP DEBATE
Truth Bullets: Case File 01 | Sense of Time | Tunnel
Seiga: So, I had molded a wire into the shape of a key in order for us to get into the lab room.
Seiga: I told Asami and the others about the plan, to which, might I add, they happily agreed to.
Saori: We first went to the infirmary room in order to check the bottles in the shelves since I have discovered that the poison bottles have been restocked days after I had thrown them out.
Sagiso: In order to see whether or not the bottles would be restocked by Monokuma, Seiga and I decided to throw the bottles away.
Amyto: And then scarily enough, a light flashed and suddenly the bottles have been restocked!
Kaniza: It was strange, but yeah... Afterwards, we headed straight to the lab room and discovered a flight of stairs leading down to a tunnel.
Kakuma: So you guys discovered the tunnel immediately afterwards... Was that when the sirens sounded and the lights turned off?
Asami: It was. It had happened so suddenly that we were confused for a moment.
Fuwari: Must've been shocking.
Asami: Mhm! That's correct.
Kaniza: I still find it strange that Monokuma would lie to us about the time though. Didn't the announcement say that he would do that halfway through the day?
Fumio: Monokuma was lying?
Rin: ... Wow, what a liar.
Minori: Wait. I think that person's wrong about something... Yeah, it's wrong!
-Truth Bullet Selected: Sense of Time-
Minori: I disagree with that!
BREAK!
Minori frowned as he looked through his MonoPad, eyeing a specific truth bullet. He had been reading through the evidence before hearing that statement. As no one had bothered to speak against it, he had little to no choice but to counter that statement. He looked at Kaniza with a stern expression. "Kaniza, I think Monokuma was telling us the truth."
The astrophotographer's eyes widened. "W-Wait, really?"
The pseudologist nodded. "I thought the same thing beforehand. If Monokuma said 'halfway throughout the day', then we would normally be inclined to think that he meant from twelve in the afternoon, as we do live in a twenty-four hour timestamp. However, Monokuma is most likely talking about time from the morning to nighttime announcement."
"Morning announcement to nighttime announcement..." Kakuma cupped his chin, pondering. "That would make 'halftime' around three or four o'clock, if I'm right."
Seiga laughed and threw his hands to his hips. "Haha! He's a sly bastard, not bothering to tell us the specifics. He's really advocating for confusing all of us, huh! What a sly bastard!"
Kaniza nodded to herself. "I-I see... Guess I was mistaken then, huh? Sorry."
Kamui nodded, not at all irritated by her mistake. "Of course. It is good that we go through over the basics so we can correct mistakes like that." The mortician then turned to Minori. "So that means that during the time we were going into the tunnel was halfway through the day?"
"Yeah," the white-haired man said, looking through his bullets. "And that's close to the time when Ko had died."
"Since it would take a while for us to traverse into the tunnel and to get out..." Sagiso sighed. "Yeah."
"Alright, so we got that sorted out..." Amyto tapped onto her chin, a confused expression on her face. "Hm, but I'm still a bit iffy on this whole case. So apparently someone was able to travel through the dark and kill Ko on the spot? Just like that? The killer can somehow just see through the dark then?"
Minori's eyes widened as his cheeks began to flush out of embarrassment. "U-um, I haven't figured that out yet."
"None of us has!" Asami cried, standing confident. The other students were about to speak until the knight continued from where she started. "However, we are here to change that! We're here to avenge Ko, aren't we? We need to figure out the truth."
Sheina grinned. "Yes, yes! And once we figure out who killed Ko we must bestow judgment upon them!"
Seiga frowned. "So, how do we figure out who killed Ko if we don't even know how the fuck the killer got to him in the dark?"
Sagiso shook her head, hand raised to the air. "Before we discuss about the killer, I want to clarify a few things about what the case file says. The case file said that Ko had been killed by Type B Poison, however what I am concerned about if it the case is accurate."
"You think Monokuma fabricated it?" Rin asked, confused.
The psychogeographer shook her head. "I am uncertain. We do not know if what the case file said is true, especially since Monokuma was the one who had given us these MonoPads. Was it really the Type B Poison that killed him or was it from the fan?"
Seiga's eyes widened. "You mean that weird shit I broke?"
Sagiso nodded. "Yes. I want to know if the symptoms Ko experienced are alike to what is said on the case file or if it is alike to the motive presented to us. I want to make sure Monokuma isn't fabricating a lie to us."
Amyto frowned. "Isn't it obvious?" She then stopped, thinking for a moment. She then crept an awkward smile. "Actually, now I'm unsure..."
"So you want us to discuss about the validity of the case file." Fuwari cupped her chin, interested. "Alright, I see. Then let us discuss."
NONSTOP DEBATE
Truth Bullets: Case File 001 | 01110000... Poison | Lips
Nezumi: S-so you want us to talk about the symptoms of the Type B Poison...?
Sagiso: I want a comparison between the motive and the Type B Poison, that's all.
Rin: The symptoms from the Type B Poison mentioned the enlargement of eyes, increase in heart rate, and etc...
Rin: ... I think that's it.
Ryoichi: She really seemed to run off to the clouds...
Sagiso: I see, but we need to talk about the motive as well.
Saori: Well... from what I remember, the motive had made the sick's bodies extremely hot.
Fuwari: If I may add, it was hard to do much, especially since it was hard to hear and that my vision was a bit blurry.
Amyto: Huh, are those really the only symptoms? They don't sound that bad...they almost sound like they had the case of a horrible flu.
Seiga: Ko suffered from those symptoms too though.
Fuwari: That was because he was sick, just like us.
Seiga: Well, but... Yeah, whatever. I lost what I wanted to say.
Ryoichi: Mr. Kosoku, are you serious?
Minori: That statement's right!
-Truth Bullet Selected: 01110000... Poison-
Minori: I agree with that!
BREAK!
Minori took a deep breath. "Ko definitely died from Type B Poison."
Fumio scribbled eagerly into his notepad. "How are you so sure?"
The pseudologist frowned. "Despite Monokuma wanting us to participate in the killing game, the motive presented to us isn't exactly life-threatening. I do think that he would've done something if time was up, but I'm certain that the motive of this was simply a fabrication."
The Ultimates murmured to one another before Kakuma crossed his arms, eyebrows furrowed into disdain. "So, you're telling us that the motive wouldn't have killed us?"
"The poison being fanned throughout the school isn't life-threatening. Taking a whiff out of it wouldn't kill someone, however it does mention that you may experience an increase in temperature, as it did happen to you guys." Minori eyed Kakuma, then looking to Monokuma. "The worst case of this is only a flu."
"Wait." Asami couldn't believe it. "So, was Monokuma lying to us?"
Monokuma grinned, uncaring as he laughed into the open. "Well, it was a 'motive'. Motives are meant to push you guys! Besides, I am a man of my word. If you did end up wasting the time I would've killed you all." The headmaster gnawed his teeth out, obviously meant to intimidate the Ultimates. "I just didn't want you all to die before time was up, especially from just a stupid case of poison!"
Saori frowned. "So, the motive was only meant to push us into killing. We were given a sense of panic, that's all."
Nezumi's eyes widened. "What, but that..."
"That's bullshit." Seiga crossed his arms. "I can't believe you did some bullshit like that!"
"It was called motive for a reason." Monokuma shrugged. He did not care at all. "Don't be pissed just because the motive motivated you all to kill someone. If anything, that motive saved your lives. I really would've killed you all if time was up."
"I certainly believe that," Fuwari started, "however I am inclined not to. I cannot trust in someone who would force others to harm one another, after all. I cannot place my trust in anyone such as yourself."
"That's sick. Monokuma's just sick." Kaniza had murmured into her breath, disgusted. She was utterly disgusted with the headmaster.
The stunt double frowned before coughing into the open. He was cracking his fists loudly. "So, we got the point that Monokuma can be a fucking liar, but what else?" Seiga eyed the group. "Ko definitely died from the Type B Poison, so now we should discuss who the killer could be!"
Amyto's eyes widened. "Huh? But shouldn't we figure out how Ko was killed?"
The knight thought for a moment, then nodding. "That's a good idea. If we cross off the list of suspects we might be able to come up with something than if we were to hypothesize how Ko could've died." She smiled at the group now, determined. "Don't worry! I believe in us!"
Ryoichi fiddled with his fingers, laughing nervously. "You saying that so enthusiastically makes me quite anxious, I have to admit."
"Well, I think it would be best to determine who has alibis first." Kamui observed each of the Ultimates, eyeing their expressions. "I think that would be a good start."
"Huh, I see..." Saori nodded to herself.
Minori released a deep breath. Alright, so we're going to go over the alibis. This should be easy for me. I should know what happened with each person and whose alibi holds up accountable.
NONSTOP DEBATE
Truth Bullets: Kaniza's Testimony | Saori's Alibi | Tunnel | Lack of Alibis (Lost)
Kakuma: So, if I remember correctly, all of you guys went into the tunnel?
Kamui: Yes, all of us did at the same time the lights shut down and the sirens sounded off.
Kaniza: Hearing the sirens sound off so suddenly scared me...
Fuwari: The only ones who didn't follow you are me, Ko, Kakuma, and Fumio.
Seiga: So, who has alibis? The only ones who don't are the ones who got lost, right?
Sagiso: The people who had gotten lost... They were Asami, Sheina, Ryoichi, Nezumi, and Saori, correct?
Sheina: Heh! I assure you that I am not the murderer! If anything, those against the Son of Osiris are!
Ryoichi: ... Are you referring to me?
Kaniza: Wait, but if they had gotten lost, how would we confirm their alibis or not? We don't know what happened during the time they got lost.
Seiga: Huh, that's true, huh?
Fuwari: I can assume that the lost has no alibi then?
Fumio: Doesn't that mean we're at a loss here?
Seiga: So we have five possible suspects, huh!
Nezumi: H-hey, don't just assume that!
Minori: No alibi? No, I'm pretty sure they have something.
-Truth Bullet Selected: Saori's Alibi-
Minori: You've got that wrong!
BREAK!
"No, I'm pretty sure a few of them could attest for each other."
Fuwari's eyes widened. "Oh? Please do tell."
The pseudologist nodded. "Of course." He looked towards Ryoichi who eyed him back in return, questioning his movement. "While the group had gotten lost, some of them were able to hear someone in particular. Ryoichi had called out for help when he was inside of the tunnel since he had gotten lost."
Ryoichi took this oppurtunity to speak, clearing his throat. "Ahem. Yes, Mr. Watanabe is right. I was trying to call out for anyone since I had gotten myself lost. Unfortunately, nobody seemed to answer me back."
"Yes, nobody had answered him back, but a few people did hear him, if not faintly." Minori crossed his arms. "Nezumi and Saori heard him."
Nezumi jumped at the sound of his name, sweat now tricking from his forehead. He was fidgeting in place, fiddling with his fingers as he hid underneath his hood. "U-um, he's right," he began, speaking in a murmur. "I heard Ryoichi, but I-I wasn't too sure where he was s-so I didn't bother to follow his voice... Besides, the sirens were so loud that I wasn't completely sure w-where he was..."
Saori nodded. "It's the same for me. I had heard Ryoichi's voice from behind, however I wasn't entirely sure whether or not I should look for the source of his voice. I wanted to stay in place since I wasn't certain of where I was at the time."
"Yeah, so they totally have an alibi then!" Seiga laughed boisterously, puffing his chest out. He threw the investigator a thumbs-up, winking his way. "Good job, Ryo! You're innocent to the capital T!"
Ryoichi smiled back at the stunt double. "Yes."
"Heh."
Asami looked to the wedding planner who had smirked to himself. "What's wrong, Kakuma?" She asked, confused. "Do you want to say something?"
The wedding planner shook his head, bringing the fringe of his glasses closer to his eyes. "It's nothing special. I was just wondering why we are completely believing Ryoichi's 'alibi'."
The knight's eyes widened. "Huh? So you don't believe them?"
Minori frowned. As docile as he could be, he knew Ryoichi wasn't lying. He was sure Nezumi and Saori weren't lying. "Kakuma," he began, speaking as confidently as he could. He had to stand up for the trio. "They're not lying."
"How are you so sure about that?" Kakuma turned to Minori, staring at him. A look of disdain appeared on his face. "Just because you're a master at lying doesn't mean anything. You know that accomplices are common in a murder, right?"
The pseudologist grimaced, the thought having disgusted him. "You think they're covering for one another?"
"Who knows?" The wedding planner frowned. "But you should know that completely trusting in someone is unlike you. You do know that accomplices are always a possibility? Why would you think otherwise just because we're some stupid high schoolers who have Ultimate talents? We're just kids who want to not think about killing, that's all."
Amyto glared at the man, disgusted. "Kakuma, that's going too far!"
"I-I would never kill someone!" Ryoichi cried, shaking his head. "I'm not lying!"
Minori felt his heart beating. "Kakuma, there's no way Ryoichi could kill Ko, especially with the circumstances thrown at him. I cannot believe that Nezumi and Saori would even cover up for him. For not only one, but two people to cover up for a murder? That's impossible." He then stopped, letting out a deep breath. "And how would Ryoichi traverse in the dark and kill Ko? He wasn't the last person to even enter into the tunnel! He couldn't be the killer!"
"Really? Well, that doesn't mean anything. There's always a way, especially with a flimsy excuse of 'I was lost'." Kakuma crossed his arms. "However, if you really do think that, then prove it to me."
Minori's eyes widened. "What?"
"What? You can't explain why they couldn't cover up for him? You can't say anything other than 'Ryoichi wasn't last to enter in the tunnel' and 'accomplices can't ever occur'?" Kakuma rolled his eyes, his tone dry as he accusingly pointed at the white-haired man. "If you can't provide me with concrete evidence, then I'm more than welcomed to figure out the killer myself."
"Kakuma..."
Minori bit into his lips. He knew that Kakuma was trying to fight him. He knew that the wedding planner was testing him- his strength, his will. Minori had to do it. He had to prove his worth. He did not want to be pushed around. Shit. I have to throw evidence right at him, huh? He really does hate him though... Well, anyways, I need to come up with it calmly... There's a few reasons why Ryoichi cannot be the murderer, and why it's even more impossible for Nezumi and Saori to help him. There are a lot of reasons why, but he would just throw them down. I have to start with the most tantalizing one then!
HANGMAN'S GAMBIT
Question: Why couldn't Nezumi and Saori cover up for Ryoichi?
. . . - . . . . .
Minori: Alright, let's see...
T . . - Ru . . .
Minori: Wait, I think I've got it!
The - Ru . . s
Minori: I see it now!
Answer: The Rules
Minori: I've got the answer!
BREAK!
Minori threw a determined look at Kakuma who was staring back at him. The pseudologist crossed his arms. "There's an obvious reason why Nezumi and Saori wouldn't cover up for Ryoichi."
"Obvious, huh?" Kakuma smirked. "Please tell me then, Minori."
"Our MonoPads have shown us the rules of the school as explained from Monokuma." Minori opened up his MonoPad, swiping his fingers through the list of rules. He skimmed through each one before stopping, the eighth rule being shown directly to his eyes. "The eigth rule states that if the guilty party is found, they alone will be punished. If they were not found in the class trial, then they will get to graduate and everyone else will be left to be punished."
The wedding planner frowned. "And why is that important?"
Minori stared at the man. "The rule is specific in their words. If the guilty party hasn't been found, they alone will be able to graduate." The pseudologist held tightly onto his device. "Obviously, there would be only one person who would've killed Ko. The person who has made Ko 'dead' will be considered the 'blackened'. Whoever caused Ko to 'die' will be the blackened, and nobody else. Anyone who helps them plan or covers up their murder wouldn't gain any advantage if the killer were to escape freely. The accomplices wouldn't gain anything by helping the murderer."
Kakuma's eyes widened as he then cupped his chin, now pondering on the thought. "You have a point. If only the blackened alone will be able to graduate, then there is no purpose in helping them at all." He sighed to himself. "I was mistaken then. I haven't looked at the rules more closely."
Minori couldn't help but sigh, now feeling exhausted. At least I survived that... Whew.
Ryoichi groaned loudly. "I told you I wasn't the murderer."
"Well, that concludes that the possibility of people helping murderers out are low!" Seiga smirked. "Awesome! So, we are now aware that Ryo, Saori, and Nezumi aren't killers, right? And I'm damn sure the people who weren't lost are scot-free of being potential killers! So, who do we have left?"
"Hold on," Fumio scribbled into his notepad, waving his arms around desperately to catch the others' attention. "If it was dark throughout the school, how would anyone be able to traverse from place to place? I doubt the killer would've been able to carry Ko from his room to the infirmary."
"Yeah, but, I mean, unless..." Amyto's eyes widened. "What if he was already transported there?!"
Saori tilted her head. "How in the world would that work?"
Sagiso frowned. "Hm, couldn't there be something that can be used as light? Maybe there could've been something in the lottery room that the killer used to traverse from place to place. Considering how wide and spacious the tunnel is, I would assume it wouldn't be too hard to not bump into someone and walk up the stairs."
"Huh. That'll be a miraculous feat if someone actually managed that." Seiga laughed. "But I guess it's possible! I mean, they always happen in movies!"
Nezumi's eyes widened. "U-um, but movies aren't real..."
"Heh!" Sheina held her chin up. "Well, even if such things could be considered a 'miracle', there is always a possibility! We need to know whether or not there were any source of light that can be used, my fellow subjects!"
"Well, I mean, you could've used the lamps around this school." Seiga grinned jokingly. "Yeah, but they all have to be plugged in though, soooo nevermind."
Saori frowned. "Then why even suggest it?"
Kamui cupped his chin, pondering. "So, the most likely case of the killer finding a light source would have to be in the MonoLottery room."
"Oh, that's correct!" Asami nodded her head quickly. "There are plenty of things inside of that room. I'm sure a light source would be hidden inside there, right?"
Minori inwardly frowned. Hm, I'm doubting that.
THINKING TIME
Question: Was there a light source inside of the MonoLottery room?
[A. No, there was nothing.]
B. Yes, there were wireless light sources.
C. No, but there were lamps and flashbulbs.
D. I'm not sure.
Minori: I see it!
BREAK!
"No, I checked the room earlier, and I found nothing."
Rin yawned. She seemed almost tired than anything. Minori almost wanted to envy her for how airheaded she could be at times, or how she was able to make herself seem like she didn't care. "Same with me. I was checking the room earlier and there wasn't anything that could be used as a light source."
Asami eyed the pseudologist then to the jeweler, her eyes widening. "Oh, really?" She smiled sadly as a result, scratching her head. "Well, this case is certainly getting harder by the second. But no worries, I'm sure there's a way for the killer to kill Ko in the dark!"
Minori nodded. Yes, I believe in that too, Asami.
"Alright, so we do not know how the killer can move in the dark." Fuwari nodded to herself. "We should discuss something else then rather then speak about Ko's killer."
Ryoichi eyed the spirit medium, crossing his arms. "What do you suggest then?"
"I was wondering about how we were treated. Kaniza had treated us, the sick, right?" The spirit medium eyed the astrophotographer who nodded her head. "I was simply curious to how we were treated and how Kaniza chose our medication."
"Oh. I see." Kakuma acknowledged the woman's words fully. "It wouldn't be wise for someone to treat us if they don't know the correct medication."
Minori couldn't help but scratch his head, awkwardly laughing for the Ultimate. That's definitely what Kaniza did though...
"I just thought that the medicine I gave you guys would be the most useful." Kaniza awkwardly smiled, fiddling with her fingers and playing with her skirt. "I remembered the symptoms Saori told me, so I took the medication that would help best in healing your symptoms."
"Really?" The wedding planner raised an eyebrow. "Please remind me to not have you as my doctor then."
Amyto rolled her eyes. "At least you guys are well, right?"
Fuwari nodded her head slowly, taking in what the astrophotographer was saying. "So you were the one who prescribed us the medication. You were also the one who gave us our food." Her lips curved to a frown. "There's a possibility that you might've killed Ko then."
Kaniza's eyes widened. "W-what?!"
"K-Kaniza...?" Nezumi stared blankly at the woman. "No way..."
"W-why would you think that?" Kaniza began, her voice beginning to shake. Her quirky and energetic attitude was now gone from existance. "J-just because I gave you guys food and medicine doesn't mean I killed Ko!"
Fuwari crossed her arms. "I would want to believe that, however you are the prime suspect in my eyes. Couldn't you have drugged Ko's food?"
"N-no! Of course not!" The Ultimate shook her head furiously. "I would never stoop that low!"
Minori bit into his lips. He listened to the accusations people began to throw at Kaniza. He could see the astrophotographer began to grow more and more desperate, her body tremblig in fear. Kaniza is the culprit... Hm...
NONSTOP DEBATE
Truth Bullets: Charity to the Sick |Type B Poison | Kaniza's Testimony | Haruko's Platter
Kaniza: I would never kill anyone!
Nezumi: T-this can't be true...
Kamui: You think she is the culprit because she was the one who brought in you guys' meals, right?
Fuwari: Yes. I am certain that Ko had gotten himself drugged from eating the food.
Ryoichi: Mr. Yoshikawa did eat his food, huh.
Kaniza: I would never drug the food!
Kakuma: Wasn't she also the one who labeled our cups?
Fuwari: Ah, yes. By labeling the cups she would've been able to target Ko easily.
Kaniza: I-I wasn't even the one who labeled the cups!
Amyto: No, it can't be true...right?
Kaniza: It's definitely wrong!
Kaniza: It's all wrong! I'm not the killer!
Minori: No, that statement... It's definitely wrong.
-Truth Bullet Selected: Kaniza's Testimony-
Minori: You've got that wrong!
BREAK!
Minori shook his head. "Kaniza was the one who brought the sick their meals, but she wasn't the only one who helped the sick. Kamui, Sagiso, and Asami helped as well with preparing the meals."
Asami nodded. "Yes, that is true. I would think that since Kaniza was working the entire time in the kitchen then we would've noticed if she had drugged the food." She then frowned. "It was Kamui who suggested her to label the cups."
Rin's eyes widened. "Kamui, huh?"
Kamui sighed. "Yes, I was the one who requested her to do such. However, I didn't press her. I am certain I am not the killer." The mortician then frowned. "Besides, we were all watching each other when we cooked the food. I am sure any one of us would've noticed the other if Kaniza were to drug the food."
"Well, Kaniza should be innocent then!" Seiga crossed his arms, frowning. "She didn't do shit! Besides, she's already out of her wits! Why push her further?"
Kakuma scoffed. "Hmph, well, it would still be wise to doubt her."
Seiga shrugged. "Well, whatever you want. For me, I trust in Kaniza completely! Isn't that right, Minori dude?"
Minori's eyes widened. "Huh? Oh, yeah." He turned to the audience. "I understand doubting Kaniza as the murderer, however, we still have to be wary of the others then. Kamui, Asami, and Sagiso aren't at all in the clear simply because Kaniza was the one who brought in the food."
Fuwari nodded to herself. "I see." She turned to Kaniza. "I apologize."
Kaniza let out an awkward smile. "Y-yeah, no problem."
Saori crossed her arms. "So, I'm guessing the most suspicious person now is Kamui."
"I see." Kamui cupped his chin. He didn't seem at all worried. In fact, he was still as calm as he usually was. "However, like I stated, I doubt I would be able to pull it off as well as the rest of us who had helped the sick. We were all inside of the kitchen and none of us were alone during that time. I doubt I'd be able to drug the food without anyone noticing. Besides, how would I drug the food? I would've need to inject the food with a syringe then if that were the case."
Ryoichi frowned. "But still..."
"If I may ask," Minori bit into his lips. "Can I ask about who was with who during the entire duration when the food was being made? I want to know who was with who and who had left during the time."
Kamui's eyes widened. "Ah, I see. I suppose that is important."
Sagiso frowned. "I'll help with that," she said, speaking calmly. "Since us four were early we decided to make breakfast. Kaniza said that we should also cook for the sick, so that is what we did. We were always together though. I, well..." She hesitated. "I wanted to go to the restroom for a bit, so I told Kaniza who decided to follow me. Asami and Kamui were alone for a while, but we returned in a few minutes. After most of you guys have appeared, Asami and I walked out to greet some of you before Kaniza and Kamui went out as well. The food for you guys and the sick had already finished by then. Kaniza did go get the meals for the sick, however she didn't have anything at hand nor was there anything in the kitchen that could've been used to drug Ko."
"That's correct." Asami crossed her arms, a determined expression on her face. "We have always been together since the moment we walked into the dining room. I think Kaniza's innocent."
Kaniza nodded. "Yeah!"
So they haven't been away from each other until all of us gathered to eat. I doubt all four of them would lie to me too. Hm, alright then. Minori took note, acknowledging their alibis with a small smile. "Thank you."
"I mean, I doubt they'd lie to us, so I'm sure they're telling us the truth!" Amyto smiled widely at the group. "Hooray! You guys are all innocent!"
"Hm." Kakuma thought to himself, still unsure.
Ryoichi frowned. "If Mr. Setsushi and the others are not the killer, then..." His eyes then widened. "Wait, what if Ms. Yakamuro was the murderer? Isn't she the only one who had gotten lost in the tunnel and doesn't have an alibi yet? Besides, she was one of the last to enter into the tunnel, right?"
"Excuse me?" Sheina glared at the man. "I am not a murderer! How dare you assume such things, subject!"
Kamui shook his head. "I do not believe so. She would have to find a way to enter into Ko's room and drug him then, after all."
Sheina scoffed. "Of course! I am no murderer!"
Sagiso frowned. "The only people who have visited Ko before our plan were Kaniza, Asami, and..." She stopped. "Sheina."
"See? So she did have time to drug Mr. Yoshikawa!"
"I am highly offended by your remark!" Sheina glared at Ryoichi. "I cannot believe you would assume such things! Apologize now!"
We're just blaming each other left and right. Minori bit into his lips. I have to settle this so we can get back to the real topic at hand! Besides, I'm sure Sheina's innocent!
NONSTOP DEBATE
Truth Bullets: Asami's Testimony | Order of the Lost | Saori's Alibi | Tunnel
Sheina: Stop assuming such things, lowly subject! I was with Asami the entire time when I was checking the sick!
Asami: Yeah, she was.
Sheina: Yes, my subject Asami is right! Besides, how would I transport Ko from his room to the infirmary?
Seiga: Well, I mean, that thing is still something we don't know yet...
Ryoichi: Hm, well, couldn't you have gotten out of the tunnel since you were one of the last people to enter in the tunnel?
Sheina: Wha- I would never! I was lost anyways!
Amyto: I-I mean, maybe you were lying about being lost...?
Kamui: Hm, if she was one of the last people to enter...
Saori: It could be possible.
Nezumi: Y-you think?
Ryoichi: You could've gone back up the tunnel since you were one of the last people though! It would've been easy for you to go back up the stairs!
Ryoichi: You could've gone up and move Mr. Yoshikawa!
Sheina: Don't assume such things! You have offended the Son of Osiris!
Minori: No, that's not correct.
Truth Bullet Selected: Asami's Testimony
Minori: You've got that wrong!
BREAK!
Minori shook his head as everyone turned his way. "Sheina is innocent. Asami was the first one to go back up the lab room. She saw Sheina coming back up from the tunnel, so I doubt Sheina's actually the murderer."
Asami smiled at the pseudologist. "Yes, Minori, that's right." She placed her hands on her hips. "I have seen Sheina with my own two eyes! She has appeared from the stairs after I had moved back into the lab room. Since the lights have been shut back on, I was able to see her clearly. I saw the rest as well afterwards."
"Hmph!" Sheina frowned. "I can't believe you would assume such blasphemy!"
Sagiso thought for a moment, crossing her arms. "Can we not discuss about alibis then? I think it is much more important for us to talk about how Ko has been killed. We still aren't certain of how Ko has been moved from his room to the infirmary."
"True." Fuwari nodded. "I am not sure about that as well."
The knight frowned, a serious expression on her face. She looked at her classmates, observing each one slowly. "If we do not know how Ko had been moved, then let's talk about how Ko was able to be drugged then."
"How Ko got drugged..." Amyto thought for a moment. "Huh, I wonder..."
Nezumi fiddled with his fingers. "U-um, so if his food wasn't injected with a sleeping drug, then what...?"
"Ko ate his food." Minori stated bluntly, crossing his arms. He was moving the flap of his scarf around, his heart continuing to race. "He has eaten his food and taken his medicine. He has eaten and drank mostly everything."
Kakuma frowned. "And?"
The pseudologist sighed. "Well, he has been drugged when he was eating his food."
"What? But they didn't-"
"No, I wasn't talking about the group injecting Ko's food. We already confirmed that Kaniza and the others couldn't have drugged his food. The cups have been labeled though, so I believe that played a vital part for the murderer. I have evidence that shows us how Ko was drugged."
PRESENT THE EVIDENCE
Truth Bullet Selected: Sleeping Powder
Minori: I got it!
BREAK!
"I found an opened and used packet of sleeping powder thrown in the dining room's trash can."
Kamui frowned. "What? How did that get there?"
Minori shook his head. "I'm not sure, however this is most likely the thing that was used to drug Ko to sleep." He presented the truth bullet, showcasing the picture of the opened bag to the Ultimates. "Not only that, but in order to use the powder you would need to mix in the powder with water."
Asami's eyes widened. "Wait, so are you saying that the drinks-"
"Ko's drink had been drugged." Kakuma crossed his arms. A disgusted sigh escaped his lips as he murmured to himself, not at all happy with the result. "No wonder why the cups were labeled then."
Nezumi began to sweat, fidgeting in place. "W-Wait a minute, a-are you telling us that someone drugged his water then...a-are the people who prepared our food still potentially murderers?"
"What?!" Kaniza's voice screamed into the air.
Minori shook his head. "I am not stating that. I am just saying how Ko was drugged."
"I mean, we did prepare everything..." Asami then frowned. "But we are not murderers."
"Well, it's still a bit of a hard case since, uh, remember- they were always with one another?" Seiga crossed his arms before slamming his fists together. "I don't see how they would be able to act like ninjas! Sneaking a drug into water and even mixing them would definitely grant suspicion from others, right?"
"Of course." Sagiso frowned. "I do not even recall someone 'mixing' water."
Rin tapped her chin. "... Then who killed Ko?"
Minori bit into his lips, now thinking himself. Everyone seemed to have airtight alibis. The sick couldn't have done anything, especially considering they were mainly asleep during the duration here. Besides, just because they were sick doesn't mean they could've just woken up and kill Ko. The cups were labeled and the sleeping powder had been thrown in the dining room.
Besides, there aren't any source of light here. Other than the lights which were already turned off beforehand, it was literally impossible to move between room to room. The pseudologist inwardly grimaced. He didn't know what to do. He was at a stalemate.
NONSTOP DEBATE
Truth Bullets: Circular Rings | Sleeping Powder | Bump on Head | Type B Poison
Rin: So... how did Ko die?
Amyto: Oh my god! Oh my god! Are we actually at a stalemate here?!
Sheina: Subjects, calm yourselves!
Asami: Sheina is right, we need to be calm! Think! Is there anything else that can be presented as evidence or could help us solve this mystery?
Seiga: Hahaha! I got an idea! What if Ko just sleepwalked? It would make much more sense!
Ryoichi: Maybe aliens did it!
Sheina: Or Monokuma himself.
Saori: If Ko were to sleepwalk, then... Hm, it would explain the lack of potential suspects.
Nezumi: B-but wouldn't the sleeping powder drug him to sleep?
Fuwari: Well, there are always cases of sleepwalking in patients. I believe Ko could be a case of that.
Asami: That means that Ko deliberately moved him from room to room.
Amyto: I mean, it would explain how he was moved, right? There's no light source available anyways!
Ryoichi: There's no light source. Yes, I suppose that is plausible other than aliens doing it.
Kakuma: ... Why are we even suggesting this?
Minori: Why is our conversation ending up like this? Anyways, I need to explain this as accurate and efficient as possible.
-Truth Bullet Selected: Bump on Head-
Minori: You've got that wrong!
BREAK!
Minori couldn't help but force a small smile, eyeing Seiga who stared back at him. "Um, I don't think Ko sleepwalked his way to the infirmary, Seiga." He awkwardly scratched his head. "Not only is sleepwalking uncommon in teens, but rather than that, I doubt Ko would've been able to move with his current condition. Not only was he sick, but he had been drugged. I would think that the mixtures of these symptoms would be too much for him."
"This is tragic." Kakuma sighed.
"Besides, even after that, Ko couldn't have sleepwalked." Minori crossed his arms. "Remember the bump on his head?"
Seiga's eyes widened. "Ah, right. I forgot about that, bro."
The pseudologist nodded. "Well, the bump had been recent. It has been recent as his time of death. Besides, Ko had been drugged, not poisoned. If there were more than one packet in use, then Ko would've died in bed. However, only one has been used." Minori frowned. "The bump had been recent to the extent of his time of death. However, the bump was also at the back of his head. If Ko had either tripped or ran into a wall, then a bump would've appeared in front of his head, not the behind. I doubt he would walk backwards."
"I see..." Seiga nodded slowly, humming. "Alright, bro! Whatever you say!"
Kamui crossed his arms. "Minori is right. Ko had been drugged hours before his death. If the killer were to kill Ko, they would go into his room. However, if Ko had sleepwalked into the infirmary, they wouldn't have known and would've been caught by surprise. It would've taken them longer to find Ko then." The mortician smiled softly. "Ko had been drugged, not poisoned."
Kaniza frowned. "Wait, but then why would the murderer hurt Ko?"
"I could only assume that it was by accident." Minori spoke calmly. "I think that when the killer was moving Ko to the infirmary, they accidentally either tripped on something and dropped Ko. I would think that happened as they were poisoning him."
"Wow..." Nezumi was tearing up. "T-that's so cruel..."
"I guess that excludes any possible chance of Ko moving to the infirmary room himself then..." Amyto sighed, scratching her head. "Soooo, we agreed now that Ko had been drugged in his room and moved to the infirmary to be murdered? But I don't get it, why would the killer go so far as to drag him to the infirmary? Wouldn't that just be extra work? If they wanted to kill Ko, they could've just gone to his room with the poison and killed him there."
Kamui sighed. "Yeah, I am still uncertain about that as well."
Sagiso averted her gaze. "Then who's the killer? I'm honestly at a loss here."
Minori eyed Ko's portrait. He couldn't help but feel his heart racing. He wanted to find Ko's killer. He wanted to solve the case and avenge Ko as soon as possible, however, he was at a stalemate.
We still don't know shit. We don't know how Ko got transported from place to place in the dark and who did it. Everyone seemed to have pretty clear alibis and nobody seemed to be acting suspicious...
Minori clenched his fists. He wanted to hit himself for being so lost, for being so silent. He didn't know. He just didn't know.
Think, Minori, think. Who's the most suspicious so far?
The pseudologist eyed the four people- Kamui, Asami, Sagiso, and Kaniza. The four who have prepared the meals for all of the Ultimates. The four who were in charge of breakfast.
They said they were watching each other the entire time, and I know they cannot be lying. However, Kamui was the one who told Kaniza to label the cups, but Kaniza was the one who actually met with the sick to give them their food. But, they can't be lying. Especially if it was all four of them. The lost... The lost had gathered together, though Sheina and Asami were the last to enter into the tunnel.
Minori frowned. He thought and thought, hours almost seeming to past by. He had to come up with something. He couldn't allow the trial to end here. He couldn't allow Monokuma to speak. He thought and thought, his mind circling around what he found in the investigation. What was said from each person, what happened in the trial thus far. He thought long and hard, until his heart began to drop. His stomach churned.
Am I seeing things wrong here?
The Ultimate observed the room. Monokuma continued to sip into his fake glass of martini, the others murmuring and wondering about. They didn't know what to do. Nezumi was beginning to freak out as Kakuma tried to think. Asami and Seiga were trying to get the others to speak, but to no avail. Minori bit into his lips, his fingernails scratching his skin.
Am I seeing things from the wrong perspective? Is this case actually...
Minori took a deep breath. He observed his truth bullets before inwardly nodding to himself.
I need to look at things from a whole new angle.
"Hey."
Asami's eyes widened. She shot a look to the white-haired man, her face filled to the brim with hope. Hope that Minori had figured out something. "Minori." She crept a smile. It was almost a desperate smile. A desperate smile that told Minori- you need to figure this out. "What's wrong?"
Minori observed the Ultimates. All of them. All of them were looking at him with that same look of hope. That look of hope which prayed to the Gods that Minori knew the truth.
"I think I found something."
CLASS TRIAL POSTPONED!
Survivors: 15/16
And that's the end of the first part for this trial! I hope this format is good, I honestly wasn't sure if it would work... I'm also not too confident writing trials, as this is my first time, so I hope it's at least decent so far. Anyways, I hope you're excited for the next part! What do you think Minori figured out?