Hidden From Hope

by 1Glimmershine

The last 16 ultimates of the world, that have yet to perish during the 2nd tragedy or become corrupted by despair, have been taken to an underground facility for their protection until the tragedy ends and all roots of despair are taken care of. Unbeknownst to them, they were only heading to their fates in the grip of despair.

14. Chapter 2-5: Cemetery of Stars

"A body has been discovered! In no time flat to boot gahahahaha! The blackened sure knows how to put on a real grand performance, far more impressive than all that shlock before then. But, you all know the ropes now, go on your hopeless search for the truth!"

It felt as though the air had grown denser as the gruesome scene settled in our eyes.

"H-how…w-why…" Sukey weakly muttered.

My fears have been realized, as this Killing Game never fails to accomplish that at great efficacy. Why didn't I just act upon my worries? I saw all the signs and yet, I let everything fall into place unabated… I can't help but wonder if this could have been prevented if I did. No, right? It was just my pessimism, I had no idea where it was leading my thoughts, no idea that Arishige was to be killed. I was simply being negative because I…I don't know. Be that as it may, I don't have the power or influence to alter anyone's courses. The show would go on and he would die no matter what. All I am capable of is ensuring we scrape by the trial once more. Here's hoping it will be easy said, easy done this time. Probably not though…

"I betrayed my own instincts…and this is the punishment," Sozen lamented with a hint of frustration. "Kado might just be right…I'm not fit to carry any burdens, let alone protect those around me…"

"It's only human to make mistakes, Sozen," Kaiya said. "We can make up for it by delivering justice for Arishige!"

"Justice shouldn't have been required in the first place," Sozen firmly stated. "I had my doubts, I listened to your encouragement for me to enjoy life, and now an undeserving person has bit the dust, again. My failures are an affront to my title as Ultimate Sheriff."

He had similar feelings that I did. Except, in his case, he actually has the skills to fit the bill. Meanwhile, I'd just get the blind ear. So, I can understand his frustrations.

"The selfish fuckin' bastard that killed him is more of a failure than you're!" Jurobei angrily exclaimed. "It's them we should be pissed at, not you."

"We can't be certain that he's dead, t-there's still a chance he's holding on right?" Sukey asked, although not with much confidence.

"It's…not entirely unlikely, I guess," I shrugged. "Monotokage clearly did not check his vitals and neither has anyone else."

I say that with a grain of salt, since it would be unsurprising to learn that Monotokage has heat vision or some other kind of high tech functions like that. Regardless, I'd rather try to provide some positivity for Sukey's sake, even if it amounts to nothing.

"A man, who lies in a sea of crimson of his own creation, cannot be doubted," the hair raising tone of the voice means it was certainly one of the twins. "As bleak as it is, we must not deny the announcement."

When did one of them end up here? I'm not one to chalk it up to them being incredibly stealthy. Then again, the whole excursion with the morning contest speaks to their benefit of that being the case…

Just then, a beam of light filled the room from the previously locked doors. They flew open and Nene, along with Kado, rushed into the theatre.

Nene growled in frustration when she set her eyes upon Arishige's body. For a brief moment, she had a pained look of resignation.

"Another coward yet remained among us," she tightly gripped her rapier. "You're all fools to have left your backs wide open in your desire for worthless entertainment."

Masakado flicked his hair with a smarmy grin. "Do not treat yourself to ignorance, you too are partly to blame," he remarked. "But, I quite welcome this surprise! A terrible shame I was not here to witness the glorious conclusion to your show of great wonders due to my watch dog's crippling phobia of socialization."

Nene pointed her rapier at the man with a furious glare. "...Do not debase me with blasphemous accusations," she rebuked before looking away with her hand on her hip. "I simply see it more wise to separate myself from situations that are not my forte."

"Then why, when I attempt to make friendly idle conversation, do you only grunt in response?"

"Hmpf…" she continued to avoid eye contact.

Kado thinly smiled. "Yes, exactly like that, I thank you for providing us with a sufficient example," he sarcastically commented.

Soon after that, the darkness was lifted and the theatre lights returned. I could see Norito up on the stage with his hand touching Arishige's wrist. With a pained look, he stood back up and rubbed his face. Additionally, the twin that said those words was evidently Shuuyo, since she was the only one in the room with us.

I released a sigh to clear my head. "Well, we can't continue to make zero progress by grieving over this loss," I said while gripping my scarf. "I'd assume we do not have idle time to kill."

Sukey closed her eyes, appearing more relaxed now. "You're correct, Arishige would want us to make it through this and figure out who clashed against our harmony," she slightly nodded and looked at Arishige's body with determination. "No one's legacy deserves to die here."

That is all we can do for him now. What's done is done. At the very least, we have more experience conducting an investigation. Granted, our performance last time doesn't have me excited… I can barely handle that many people relying on me again. I've dealt with that enough back when the world was normal.

We all went different directions to set our investigation asail. I decided it'd be best to start with the body and go from there. Before I could start moving, someone's ice cold hand tapped my shoulder. I flipped around to see Shuuyo standing there with a concerned expression.

"Omezo, could you offer your attention for a mere second?" she requested in a soft tone.

So Shuuyo was the one who spoke up when we were in the dark. What's more abnormal, is that her sister isn't with her.

I stuffed my hands into my pockets. "Of course, in fact, I do have something to ask you," I furrowed my brow. "Where is Rikako? You being alone without her is not without suspicion."

She clasped her bow with sorrow in her eyes. "Her whereabouts concern me just as much," she affirmed and looked up at me. "You should accompany me in searching for her."

"Why me of all people?"

She lifted my chin up with a finger and stared at me. "You're the only person that was bold enough to speak with us in our very own domain," she explained, letting my chin go with a wink. "As such, you remain the most trustworthy ally to us, and your abilities to always find the most important details would allow us to find her without haste."

I scratched the back of my neck and chuckled. "I mean, I think I just get extremely lucky when it comes to evidence," I admitted before shrugging with a small smile. "Regardless, if you really need someone to accompany you, I won't push you away."

"This pleases us, hmhmhmhmm~" she tilted her head with a sweet smile.

"J-just keep your hands to yourself, that's my only requirement," I requested, holding my hands up defensively.

We both met up with Norito by Arishige's corpse, careful not to step in any blood. Upon closer inspection, I saw many needles sticking out of his skin.

If I had to guess, that loud bang I heard must've been a de facto nailbomb of sorts. What a horrifyingly brutal way to go…

"We were so close to having a perfect day, spotless of any strife…" Norito lamented with a clenched fist pressed against the floor. "Now I have to clean up another filthy crime that should've never happened…"

Monotokage popped up near us with a file in her claws.

"That you are, my faithful janitor! Yahehehehe~" she joyously exclaimed, punching him in the back. "Unless you happen to get painfully executed, you're not escaping your duties! In fact, I'll just force your damned soul to work for me in the afterlife anyways as purgatory!"

"I think I'd prefer hell…" Norito rubbed his forehead.

I don't know…hell might be filled to the brim with bootleg Monokumas like her.

The lizard held her hands behind her back and kicked the floor bashfully. "Aww, you think I'm worse than hell, how sweet of you to say…" she remarked before raising the file up with a sneer. "Anywho, I'm here to deliver thee my accurate deductions in the form of a Monotokage File!"

She tossed the file into the air and Norito quickly caught it before it ended up soaking in the blood. He began to read it aloud.

*Truth Bullet added*

Monotokage file #2

Victim: Arishige Hashiba the Ultimate Cosmetologist

Body sustained multiple puncture wounds and ruptured organs. Death was due to internal hemorrhaging. He both died and was discovered at 9:45 P.M. The many needles scattered around the body were the murder weapons.

I rubbed my chin. "Hmm, it seems every detail is quite clear this time around," I commented and frowned. "I suppose that means you are confident enough that our Blackened doesn't need your assistance in obscuring anything."

Monotokage clutched her stomach with both hands. "Gahaha! This one certainly is a doozy, I'll give you that!" she excitedly shouted, thrashing her tail back and forth. "Y'all are probably screwed, and you deserve it for leaving me out of the show. Meanies…"

"You'd have soured the experience," Shuuyo callously stated.

"Did you forget my amazing entrance when we first met?" Monotokage held up her claws, sounding offended. "I had you all gawking in bewilderment! You're telling me that doesn't earn me a spot in your show? I mean come on, you chose a girl who broke down in the sight of just a few faces in the audience, a loser compared to me!"

"We only accept those that work well with the other performers and don't harass them," Shuuyo admonished, closing her eyes with a frown of disapproval. "Besides, you'd sooner be booed off the stage thanks to your reputation. A reputation we'd never dirty our shows with, no matter your talent."

Monotokage raised a claw, her face flushed with red. "Blasphemy! Everybody loves plush animals with violent tendencies, the internet is all the proof you need!" she proclaimed in irritation. She then crossed her arms and turned away. "But whatever, it's clear you are all just jealous of my boundless fame. Anyways, toodles~ and I don't wish you luck in avoiding death!"

And then, she was gone in a flash.

Good to know that the twins have some kind of proper standards. Most producers would jump at the opportunity of hiring anyone with exceptional talent and completely disregard the type of person they're. Not to say Monotokage is actually talented, certainly not. Well, I guess she's technically proficient at being irksome and psychopathic.

"Vile beast…" Shuuyo spat with squinted eyes.

"At least there's no questioning how Arishige was killed," I placed a hand on my side. "We just need to figure out the method in which the Blackened went about it."

"Aha!" Norito shouted as he picked up a needle from the floor. "Nice try, dastardly stain, but you made the mistake of doubting the eyes of a proud janitor!"

"There's something telling on the needles, I presume?" I questioned, raising an eyebrow.

"Their steel is suffering from discoloration, a blackened discoloration, if you will," Norito responded with a cocky grin. "As well as the blood, of course."

*Truth Bullet added*

Bloody needles

Tons of thin needles were found all around the theatre. A majority of them are covered in blood and are somewhat blackened.

I stroked my chin. "Ah, so in that case…" I looked over at one of the cannons that launch fireworks. "They most likely came from the pyro."

"They're also pointed towards where he was standing," Shuuyo added, placing a finger over her lip. Her expression quickly turned perturbed. "This means there truly was a saboteur ruining our efforts to grant us reprieve and it could have very well been a performer too…"

"We should establish who has an alibi to narrow down who that may be," I offered. "Everyone who was in the audience after Sukey's performance must be innocent, since we were locked inside and in the dark no less. I can't imagine a scenario where any of us had an opportunity to activate the pyro that was controlled from up in the catwalks."

Norito pinched the brim of his hat. "Yeah, but, we have no visual confirmation on who was in here at the time."

Shuuyo twisted a strand of her hair around her finger. "That is very true, fortunately, we have ears to assist us with which we cannot see," she brought up in a rather judgmental tone.

"You don't have to make it sound like I'm an idiot…" Norito said with a lopsided frown.

"Well, I did see Jurobei and Sozen, thanks to Juro's handbook lighting in his bout for the bathroom," I informed them. "From what I heard, Sukey and Kaiya were also there before Arishige's death. I can't really speak for myself, but my presence is easy enough to prove if you ask the others."

"What about me?!" Norito asked in shock. "I never left the stage when the lights shut off."

"You also fail to mention the existence of another," Shuuyo absentmindedly plucked at her bow before eerily smirking. "Not that I blame your sightless endeavor, a shadow lurking in the corners is wont to be impossible to notice."

I ran a hand through my hair. "As much as I'd like to believe you both, I have no way to prove what you claim," I tried to reason, not wanting to sound hateful. "And without any corroboration, it'd be rash to accept it as fact."

*Truth Bullet added*

Locked inside

In the complete darkness after Sukey's performance, Juro had to leave to use the bathroom. Using the dim light of his handbook, he found the front doors, only for them to be blocked by something. All whom were locked in were; Omezo, Sukey, Sozen, Jurobei, and Kaiya. Noritoshi and Shuuyo claim to have been in the theatre at that time as well, but nobody heard or saw them.

I was afraid to accuse anyone for Erena's murder, and it's not necessarily that different now. However, it made me realize that I truly do not know these people and their motivations. A psychologist I am not, so they are unpredictable to me. Especially considering just how out there they are compared to average people. That said, I want to believe that Norito is innocent, because he does seem like a genuinely kind hearted guy.

Norito slammed his broom's handle on the ground and pointed at me. He was clearly not taking my suspicion well.

"Your words sully the good name of The Cleanliness Hero, Bleach Boy!" he exclaimed before settling down, looking at me with a hurt expression. "I thought we had a closer bond than this."

I furrowed my brow. "If you want to be closer to me, stop calling me by that name," I rebuked while turning away, trying to hide my annoyed look. "Furthermore, we learned from Isoyo that in this game, even friends aren't to be trusted."

"Dang…I guess I can't be too mad when that makes sense," Norito slumped his shoulders, displeasure evident in his face. "But, you could at least take my word for it, I'd do the same for you."

I nervously smiled. "Don't g-get the wrong idea, I'd rather you not be the Blackened," I remarked, pulling up my scarf. "H-however, I must accept only logical evidence, and your personal words are not that."

Shuuyo covered her mouth with her fingers. "Such wounding words for a morsel who regularly gets tongue twisted by basic speech," she chastised, her hollow eyes boring into mine.

"Maybe try not sneaking around with a knife if appearing dubious displeases you," I countered with a dumbfounded look, scratching my head. "As you did in the morning."

Shuuyo gave me an amused smile. "Touche," she commented before shrugging with one arm. "It's too bad that we find amusement in such activities. Such is the fate of horror actresses."

Because all horror actresses love to give people heart attacks and casually swing knives around like a baby's rattle…

"I will say, I find the fact that Arishige seemed unconcerned by everything that was going on strange," I pondered aloud. "It really did feel like it was all planned, with the spotlights and his words."

"That's because the lights being shut off was part of his performance," Shuuyo explained matter of factly. "He wanted to illuminate the theatre himself, as he put it."

Norito nodded. "She's right. Also, he was the one who flipped the switches in the power box backstage," he added, spinning his broom around. "Only the pyro and spotlights were active. So, we can be certain it wasn't the Blackened's doing. Well, if you trust me anyways."

*Truth Bullets added*

Arishige's timely death

At the time of Arishige's death, the spotlights were the only light in the room and illuminated him and only him. He seemed unaware of all that was going on.

Lights out

Everything besides the pyro and spotlights had been shut off within the theatre. Certain switches in the power box backstage were switched off. According to Norito and Shuuyo, this was intended for Arishige's performance, as he himself was the one who shut them off.

We looked around the theatre some more, but didn't end up with any more evidence. So, we headed outside the doors where Nene, Masakado, and Sukey were.

---

-2nd floor main hallway-

I immediately saw the medical gurney with an armored mannequin laying on it beside the doors.

I rolled my eyes in disbelief. "Wow, that's totally not the most obvious evidence," I mumbled, resting a hand on my side.

Is this what made that sound when we were in the dark? That would imply it hit the wall with considerable force…

Sukey walked up beside me and addressed me with a faint smile. "You're not wrong about that," she said, beginning to twirl one of her braids. "However, no one seems to have an answer to how or why it's here."

"Kado and I were in the fencing arena for the duration of the show, so we cannot offer insight as to when this got here," Nene mentioned, folding her arms over her chest.

*Truth Bullets added*

Medical gurney

For some unknown reason, this gurney was left outside of the entrance to the theatre. Nobody claims to know why or how it got there.

Armored mannequin

A mannequin wearing a heavy suit of armor was tied to the bed, with its upper body facing the wall.

"We had the riveting showdown of our own in there," Kado dramatically proclaimed. "Even with the demon out to play, she survived the onslaught."

"Perhaps we should have invited you two," Shuuyo remarked with a hint of admiration. "Twould have been quite the sight to see, the ice queen and menacing demon dueling to the death."

My pupils darted to Nene. "Wait, you let him free?" I asked, completely caught off-guard by his claim.

"No," Nene responded rather gruffly, definitely a bit agitated. "Even if I did, the showdown could've been anything but riveting with a man made purely of words."

"She's telling the truth, I did fight her while in chains, using only a fraction of my power," Masakado said, curling his lips. "She practically beat the death out of a handicapped man, how honorable of her…"

Nene, fury dancing upon her demeanor, gripped Kado's jacket and pulled him up to her face. His smile only grew more entertained.

"Pathetic worms like you have no bearing on what honor is," she admonished, her contempt made glaringly obvious with every word. She forcibly threw him back and turned her back to us. "He speaks nothing but lies, I was merely practicing against the buckets of bolts, nothing more."

"I thought as much," I shrugged and gestured to the doors. "Mind telling me what was keeping the doors shut?"

Nene picked up a rapier that was sitting on top of the gurney and presented it to me in both hands.

"This was lodged between the handles of the doors," she explained, then she unsheathed her rapier and rubbed her fingers around its tip, her brows angling downwards. "A disgustingly shameful usage of the glorious rapier. I'll be sure to provide the killer a proper, hands on, explanation of the purposes of one later."

I'd expect as much from her. Though, even should we figure out who it is, Monotokage will beat her to it. Honestly, it'd be a blessing to have Nene take your life over them from what I've seen.

*Truth Bullet added*

Rapier blockage

A rapier was fitted through the handles of the front doors from the outside, effectively keeping them from being opened from the inside.

I walked towards the armored mannequin and troller to see if there was anything peculiar about them. On the left hand's thumb, I could see a single scratch mark on the metal gauntlet.

*Truth Bullet updated*

Armored mannequin

A mannequin wearing a heavy suit of armor was tied to the bed, with its upper body facing the wall. The metal covering the left hand thumb has a single scratch on it.

Something on the right back wheel of the gurney caught my eyes and I crouched down to see what it was. It looked like a clumped up piece of string wrapped around the wheel. I pulled it off and saw some golden glitter on it as well. The others looked over at me when I showed off the string.

Sukey's eyes lit up. "That's gotta be something important," she said, leaning in to see the glitter on it. "Where was that exactly?"

"On the back right wheel of the gurney," I rubbed the back of my neck. "And with Norito on the prowl, I sincerely doubt it was there prior to today."

Nene twirled back around and approached me. "Give me one end of that string," she quickly requested as she held out her palm.

I gave her one end of the string and I held on to it as she walked backwards with her end. By the time it was made taught, she had made it all the way to the elevator in the hallway. She came back and placed a hand on her rapier.

"An absurdly long piece of string is certainly something we should all acknowledge as relevant," she commented, resting her hand on the handle of her rapier.

"Indeed, with that much length, you could string up more than 3 people by their neck at once," Masakado remarked in an unfittingly upbeat tone.

*Truth Bullet added*

Clump of string

A clump of string was wrapped around the back right wheel of the gurney. There was some golden glitter on it and it was able to stretch for a long distance.

That settles it, this is all one half to an elaborate set-up to block the door I feel. There would be no need for this many seemingly random objects when someone could just put the rapier through the handles themself. Evidently, whoever did this needed to use another method for some reason. Either to remain in the same place or not risk themselves being seen at the doors.

"Sukey, do you happen to know any pertinent info we could use?" I asked, walking up to her.

"As you know, I was practicing during the twins' performance, which I did in the prop storage room," she answered. "Once they were finished with that, I went into the dressing room to make sure I was all tidied up before beginning my musical performance."

"Did you notice anything off or worth noting?"

"Not once did I see anyone, which I guess could be considered strange in of itself," she bit her lip and looked over at Shuuyo. "Because, I'd have expected to see at least the twins' at some point or another."

*Truth Bullet added*

Sukey's Testimony

Sukey was practicing in the prop storage room during the twins' performance and then made a visit to the dressing room once it was over to prepare for her onstage appearance. She claims to have witnessed nobody during that entire time.

"That is something I would have expected as well," I rubbed my chin, glancing over at Shuuyo. "Well Shuuyo, do you have any explanation as to why you and Rikako did not show up?"

"There was no purpose in visiting the storage room as we had no props we wished to give up," she pressed her nails together while looking at them. "After our performance, we went to the bathroom, so naturally, we would not have been seen by her."

"She could've heard you walking through the hallway," I mentioned, giving her a look of uncertainty. "Since we did not see either of you leave through the main theatre doors, you'd have to have used the backstage hallway."

"Actually, I might not have," Sukey remarked with a slightly ashamed smile. "It's not unlikely that my violin playing would obscure their footsteps. I don't like to slack, even when practicing."

Shuuyo flicked her hair. "See Omezo, your suspicions are misplaced," she claimed, a faint smile gracing her lips. "Logically, you cannot accuse us or anyone just yet."

Why is she being so prickly about it then? I guess I can't really blame her, I'd hate to be scrutinized for murder just as much.

Sukey lifted a finger as her eyes widened. "Oh, and before you move on, I do want to mention that Arishige messaged me not long after the twins' performance, " she pulled out her handbook and gave it a look over. "He wanted to swap with me."

"R-really?" I stammered, a bit surprised.

This could be quite crucial.

She flipped her handbook to reveal her message history. There were a couple messages from Arishige. The first one read "To save the most fabulous for last, I wish to swap with Sukey." and the second one, sent a minute later, read "Shuuyo has agreed to it, so we must proceed with great haste!"

"By the wording, it seems he wasn't specifically addressing you," I observed, my eyelids squinting. "And he definitely sent one to Shuuyo."

Shuuyo did not look pleased. "He did grace us with that question, yes," she rolled her eyes and shook her head. "Alas, we did not find time to message him back. Nonetheless, like the delinquent he is, he lied to get what he wanted."

*Truth Bullet added*

Arishige's message

Via their handbook, Arishige had sent a message to Sukey and Shuuyo requesting to switch with Sukey so he could be the last to perform. This happened soon after the twins's performance. However, Shuuyo never responded. Despite that, Arishige and Sukey swapped anyway.

"Huh, I wonder if that means he took a bullet intended for Sukey…" I mused thoughtfully.

Sukey pressed a hand over her heart. "Y-you think the killer was aiming for me?!" she exclaimed in shock, appearing stressed by the suggestion.

"It would have been a devastating loss for all of us," Kado commented, forcing a saddened tone and expression. "To lose our shining beacon of hope so soon, so abruptly. What a true hero he was."

"If she was their original target," Nene began as her demeanor grew more intense. "Then our blackened has a twisted desire to weed out the pillars attempting to hold us together. Since Kado was with me; apparently, there may be another just as despicable as him."

"We should not devalue Arishige like that," Sukey said melancholically, looking down with a face of dejection. "Every loss of life is just as painful, he didn't deserve this, and we can't act like it was a better outcome."

"Not including my own life, I assume," Kado deadpanned with a frown. "What was it you said, ah yes…"Kado's foul melody." Surely you'd have been overjoyed if my bloodied corpse was in the place of his. No more would you need to listen to my foul melody."

I mean, if he said that to me, I'd agree. With Sukey, I have no clue. I'd think she'd be the type to see the good in everyone. Even Kado, despite all his misgivings.

"..." Sukey's shoulders slumped and appeared to be defeated by his claims. "I c-cannot say anything in regards to that…"

Sounds like she's just as unsure about herself as I am. Not what I expected.

Kado leaned his head back with a smirk. "You've already said enough to give me a clear answer," his pupils darted over to me and then back at her. "You see, even the most supportive of us is not without sins. Your desire to unite us is nothing but a ploy to make yourself appear superior to those around you. Hearing others value you over so many must feel joyous indeed."

"And s-she's earned the right of it!" I blurted out on instinct.

Why can't I just keep my mouth shut… I just sound like a desperate fool saying shit like that.

Nene growled in annoyance. "There is no purpose in bickering like this. We have a new villain to put to the test, our mental fortitude against theirs," she boomed, holding her rapier's blade up to her face. " Our focus should be on them and them alone."

"Omezo, we shan't allow any more disturbances while Rikako's whereabouts remain elusive," Shuuyo whispered in my ear. "That should be our utmost concern."

I delivered one last spiteful look at Kado before sighing. "I suppose that would be a wiser idea," I said, starting to walk away up the ramp that led backstage. "Very well, let's head backstage then."

When I get the chance, I should see if Arishige sent that message to anyone else. I'd assume at least Norito would've gotten it too, since he did announce Sukey's performance without having seen her on stage first.

---

-Backstage Hallway-

Right away, my eyes were drawn to a key that was shimmering in the light. It was left inside the keyhole of the dressing room door, keeping it locked.

"Golden glitter?" I raised a brow in confusion. "Who designs a key to be so gaudy like this?"

"That's a question we cannot answer," Shuuyo shook her head with a bemused expression. "The key had this appearance when we first came across it. Perhaps the one who constructed the theatre strongly believed all theater kids want every little thing flashy and attention drawing."

*Truth Bullet added*

Dressing room key

A key covered in golden glitter was left inside the keyhole of the dressing room in the locked position.

Wouldn't surprise me if that person was thinking about Arishige when planning the construction. Now that I think about it, maybe the dressing room was actually made with him in mind. Much like how the arena was clearly made for Nene. Regardless, I have a distinct feeling that Rikako is locked behind this door. I just hope I'm not about to stumble across another dead body. Please be alive and well…

I turned the key and flung open the door and sure enough, there was Rikako, sitting in one of the chairs with her legs crossed and staring off into the distance. I felt a relieving sigh escape my lips.

Well, she isn't dead. Although, with how dead on the inside she looks, it doesn't inspire me with much confidence in that summation…

Shuuyo sauntered into the room and I followed suit.

---

-Dressing Room-

Shuuyo laced her hand with Rikako's. "At long last, we're reunited once more," she said, although not sounding all too relieved.

Rikako closed her eyes. "Our all consuming dread has been quelled," she, on the other hand, seemed far more happy about it.

They stood side by side and faced me with gracious smiles. "We thank you for lending us your companionship till this gratifying moment," they thanked.

"Us? I was only aiding Shuuyo I thought."

They clicked their tongues and frowned.

"Silly morsel, Were we not clear enough about our interwoven lives," Rikako placed a finger on her lip and tilted her head.

"To help one, is to help the other, nevermind the logistics behind it," Shuuyo continued.

They outstretched the palms of their hands in a flamboyant pose. "For we are not bound by such trivial realities," they proudly claimed in unison before returning to neutrality. "Nonetheless, your duties are not yet finished so long as the villain, who saw fit to lock us away, persists unpunished for their transgressions."

Right, I need to constantly remind myself that I'm interacting with two people at once with one of them, no matter what. You'd think I'd have gotten it by now…

I shook my head with a disapproving frown. "Look, I also have disdain towards whoever the killer might be, but I'm not your personal taskmaster," I declared, looking off to the side. "I'm doing this for everyone's sake, not just yours."

They let out a puff of air as if to mock me.

"Folly, your actions are not synonymous with your words," Shuuyo devilishly sneered. "You've obeyed without question every time someone requests cooperation."

I felt a jolt run through my body for a moment, but shook it off immediately. "I-I…just try to please those around me if I can, so I'm not sure what you're getting at," I buried my face in my scarf. "However, I'm not what's important right now, what's important is that I understand the story behind why you two got separated. I don't mean to implicate you, but it could be imperative info."

"Hmhmhmhmm~" they hauntingly chuckled. "You're more defiant than you let on."

Is it so wrong to concern myself with the wellbeing of others? I can't just let myself disappoint them, they'll hate me if I do… I want to help, it's not because I have to. They're sorely incorrect if they think I'm in denial of anything.

"Though, we do agree that the tale we possess may be groundbreaking for the trial to come, so you shall know," Shuuyo lazily played with her hair.

"After our performance, we had already been without each other. One under the stage and the other in the catwalks," Rikako started, tilting her head to the left.

Shuuyo tilted her head to the right. "The one in the skies returned to the earth below and the underground fiend made way to the dressing room," she sang before her gaze darkened. "For the purpose of ridding herself of crimson stained clothes."

"As you are aware, we do not desire to witness ourselves bare and vulnerable, so we do not share a private room," they claimed, emphasizing the tone on the last few words, making themselves quite clear.

*Truth Bullet added*

Rikako's account

Rikako was locked inside the dressing room sometime after Sukey's performance. Her reason for not being with her sister was because she had to re-dress into clean clothes. No matter how strange her and her sister are, they never wish to see each other naked.

"Well yes, that makes sense I suppose," I nodded, albeit, not entirely buying it. "But, if Rikako was in the dressing room after your performance, she wouldn't have been locked inside at that time. Since, I'm certain Arishige or Norito would have noticed a key sticking out of the lock."

"Dead men tell no tales, and that janitor morsel is not fully trustworthy either, as you also believe," Shuuyo quickly shot down, resting her hands in her lap as her and Rikako sat down in the chair by the desks.

Rikako crossed her legs and relaxed herself. "Nevertheless, you're quite correct. Norito was tasked with treading through the halls to remind the performers when their time under the spotlight was nigh," she informed.

"Then where were you two the entire time?"

"The most introverted of rooms, the bathroom, as we've already mentioned," they said. "If those ceramic seats possessed sapience, they'd have cowered away in pure dread of what devastation was to be brought upon them."

Too much information…They really have a roundabout way of saying they had to go numero dos.

"I presume that Rikako ended up finishing her business first and that's when she went to the dressing room without you at her side?" I mused. "And not long after, Shuuyo snuck into the theatre without us even realizing she was there."

"Precisely," Rikako firmly nodded.

"And to make something clear, that was around the closing movement to Sukey's song," Shuuyo added, narrowing her eyes at me. It almost sounded threatening.

In that case, I guess it's entirely possible Shuuyo wasn't seen because we were distracted by Sukey's musical prowess. Hmm, then what the deal with the key being left inside the lock? What purpose is there for the person who locked Rikako in to leave it behind? It only serves to leave more evidence behind.

"Do you have any ideas as to why the key was not taken from its place then?" I asked. "Also, did you hear anything when you were trapped inside, Rikako?"

"...There was a notable thud from not too far away," Rikako replied, her brow scrunched. "Perhaps that's connected to the method the Blackened used to lock the door."

"The string and the glitter covered key share a similarity, do they not?" Shuuyo remarked, saying it as if it was obvious.

I rubbed my chin while furrowing my brows. "Uh…that's right, they both had golden glitter on them," I said, adjusting my bow-tie with a puzzled look. "That would hint at a deeper connection between the two objects…"

I wasn't anticipating them being so upfront about the situation with the key. They're in accordance with my own theory surrounding the key and the string. That being, the string must have been tied to the key. Therefore, it's likely the gurney with the mannequin was used to both lock the dressing room and block the theatre doors. I just don't quite know why Rikako would need to be locked away. I was thinking that she did it herself to create a false alibi. But, is her alibi really false? Plus, they were very willing to basically admit that the key and the string have a connection….

"To what ends that entails will most likely be covered in the upcoming trial," they said, giving me a blank glare. "So do not allow this connection to escape from the confines of your memories."

I held out my hands like a shield. "Rest assured, its freedom will not be easily obtained," I assured with mild confidence. "One last thing before I move on, how did Rikako cover her clothes in blood during your act?"

Rikako pulled up her sleeve to reveal some kind of device that had a container of blood connected to it. It somewhat resembles a tiny squirt gun of sorts.

"Utilizing one of the classic techniques all stage actors are practiced in," Shuuyo answered, gesturing to her sister's wrist.

"All that was required was a pull of this trigger," Rikako explained, bending her middle finger around the plastic trigger that was in the palm of her hand. "And thus, we crafted an illusion that you all had witnessed a terrifying murder."

"Has your curiosity been sated yet?" they asked in a dull tone.

"I um…suppose it has," I replied, running my hand through my hair, nervously grinning. "Forgive me for all the pushing and prying."

Their faces were bereft of any emotion. "Forgiveness is not needed," they locked hands and their grips tensed up as their eyes softened ever so slightly. "Regardless of what we say or do, fate has already chosen our paths. We can only put our minds at ease before the inevitable…"

I can't imagine living under the ideology that a supernatural force like that is determining our future. Yet, there isn't proof of it being one way or the other, so how can I deny it outright…?

I searched the dressing room for any other pieces of evidence, but came up with nothing.

Well, now that Shuuyo won't be breathing down my neck, I might as well go see if I can check Arishige's handbook and figure out who all got that message from him.

---

-Theatre-

I arrived from backstage to see that Noritoshi was still hanging around the body. Though, Sozen was also there with him this time.

It didn't take long for Norito to notice me and he greeted me with a confused look.

"Omezo? I thought you were done looking around here?" he asked. "Why would you want to see this mess again?"

"I could pose you the very same question," I rebutted, resting my hands on my sides. "I figured you'd try to contribute more to the investigation rather than sitting around the scene of the crime."

He chuckled anxiously. "Ah, yeah well…I've fallen under the scrutiny of Sozen, so I'm not exactly sitting comfortably," he twirled around his soap bar pendant, his eyes flitting to Sozen's intimidating presence. "Been stuck on the grill getting scrubbed clean of all I know for a while now."

Figures Sozen would have his sights on Norito. There's plenty of reason to. If anyone can get a clear answer out of someone, it's him.

Sozen crossed his arms. "As a defendant in the past, I had hoped you would be more receptive to questioning," he said, tapping his shoulder with a frown. "If you're so bothered by my treatment, then why don't you start being more clear about your whereabouts. I know that you think you're a hero and all, but that's no valid defense."

Some sparkling sweat formed on Norito's face. "R-right…right, it's just…anything I say about where I was will cause me to be a prime suspect," he tipped his hat down and turned his head away. "And you'd be right to judge me as such. But, I'm not sure if I can handle that all over again…"

He's not making a great case for himself with an argument like that… Please Norito, don't dig yourself into a hole like this.

Sozen addressed him with a tense gaze. "If you're truly innocent, then there should not be any issues with telling the truth," Sozen stuck his thumbs in his pant's waistline, letting his elbows slack. "Believe me, I take no joy in pushing people into traumatizing situations. Alas, our lives are on the line and I'm not going to avoid drastic measures any longer. Three too many have fallen as a result of my easygoing methods and I'd prefer only the killer to be added to it, not all of us."

Norito appeared lost in thought for a few seconds. "...Okay…I'll suck it up the best I can. I'm confident I'm capable of it since those valiant sponges are so good at it!" he exclaimed, finding his energy once more. "When the lights were shut off before Arishige's performance, I was standing just off-stage behind the curtains after they opened. I went no further than that, janitor's honor!"

There we go, an honest answer. Well, honest is a strong word, but still. Better to say something rather than remaining silent.

"In other words, you were alone and no one can validate that statement," Sozen presumed in a judging tone.

Norito seemingly shrunk in fear. "Yup, that's sort of why I was afraid of saying it…" he uttered meekishly before speaking with confidence once more. "And for further detail, throughout the whole show, I along with Arishige, were moving the props around. Occasionally, someone else lent a hand though."

There's one thing that I am curious about, something I'd think he would be on top of.

"I do wonder, Norito, did you check the pyro at all before the show?" I questioned, rubbing my chin. "With how obsessive you are with keeping things clean, I'd expect you to have noticed needles stuck in a peculiar place."

"I didn't feel that it would be necessary since we rehearsed like an hour before. During that time, everything was perfectly A-ok, nothing went wrong with Arishige's pyro. The only thing that changed was Sukey playing before him."

*Truth Bullet added*

Rehearsal

All of the performers rehearsed before showtime. Everything went according to plan, Arishige's pyro was perfectly fine. The only difference between the real deal and their rehearsals was Arishige swapping with Sukey.

Sozen shifted his stance a bit. "Was there a set of pyro that wasn't getting used at all?"

"There were these crazy fireworks cannons that we did not touch, those ones right there I believe," he pointed to the same cannons that were angled towards where Arishige was standing. His shoulders then jerked up. "Oh shoot! The exact ones where the needles most likely came from…and I failed to detect dangerous litter inside them."

"Maybe I am a sham of a hero, undeserving of my title…" he became aggrieved with woe as he stared longingly at his broom.

"Don't beat yourself up over it, you had no cause for looking into them," I dissuaded, trying to lend my encouragement. "I, uh, say there's still a chance for a hero's redemption."

If it worked so well for Sukey, I might as well try to inspire positivity for him too. Even though there's a definite likelihood of him being the Blackened. A friend is always a friend, right?

"IF he's not the Blackened," Sozen stated with great emphasis.

My lips pulled into an uneven frown. "If he's not the Blackened, yes…" I gripped my scarf, realizing that I was losing track of my initial goal here. "H-however um…that's not what, well, nevermind…I just want to check the message history in Arishige's handbook right now. So uh, w-who's willing to search his body for it and use his finger to unlock it?"

Sozen tapped his foot and Norito pulled his hat down and turned away. I stood silently with my face burning in my scarf as I stared down at the body.

Sozen grunted and shook his head. "Fine, you wusses, I've touched plenty of cold corpses by now, what's another to that list," he volunteered, getting down on a knee by the body. "One would think survivors of the tragedy would be used to bodies with how much litter the streets these days…"

"Hey, I took the liberty of dealing with Erena's body and I'll probably do the same for his," Norito defended, pointing with his broom. "I just, you know, rather tools do the contact for me…"

"I spent all my time secluding away in my home, so I haven't experienced the full terror of the tragedy," I muttered discontently. "Although, this seems to be delivering what I missed out on."

Sozen flipped Arishige onto his back and reached underneath his coat. After ruffling around for a bit, he took out his hand with the handbook in his grasp. Then, he picked up Arishige's finger and pushed it against the handbook's screen.

He held out the device towards me.

"Here you go, Miyasaki," he said, slightly squinting his eyes. "Don't quite understand why you need to dig into his personal messages though."

I grabbed the handbook and pressed the message icon.

"I'm not trying to be a pervert or anything," I retorted with a hint of annoyance. "Sukey informed me that Arishige sent out messages to request to swap with her. My purpose for doing this is to see all who got those messages."

I scrolled through the past texts and saw that, other than Sukey and Shuuyo, Norito and Heikichi also received the same exact messages.

"Oh yeah, he did send me something along those lines," Norito commented.

"That checks out," I nodded, scanning the messages once more. "You, Shuuyo, Sukey, and Heikichi all knew of this swap. While I can't say for certain, I have a gut feeling this may be crucial info in the trial."

*Truth Bullet updated*

Arishige's message

Via their handbook, Arishige had sent a message to Sukey, Noritoshi, Shuuyo, and Heikichi, requesting to switch with Sukey so he could be the last to perform. This happened soon after the twins's performance and the message itself seemed rushed. However, Shuuyo never responded. Despite that, Arishige and Sukey swapped anyway.

"Speaking of Heikichi, I have not seen hide nor tail of him since he went up to the catwalks…" Sozen peered up at the catwalks, pensively stroking his jawline.

"EEEK!" A shrill yelp sounded from backstage. It was very similar to one of Leiko's screams.

Oh joy, here we go…

Sozen quickly bolted backstage and I ran after him.

---

-Backstage-

It didn't take long for us to find Leiko. Fortunately, she seemed unharmed at a glance. Although, she was rubbing the sides of her arms as if she was hurt.

"Leiko! Are you-"

"Fine? Of course, thank you for asking!" Leiko exclaimed, sounding very irritated.

"That's not what I was going to say," Sozen crossed his arms. "Normally, people scream when in fear and/or when they're being assaulted."

I scratched the back of my head. "Hah, well, Leiko isn't really normal…" I remarked with a weak smile.

Leiko rested her hands on her hips. "Exactly! Don't insult my integrity as a wacky incomprehensible woman, you meanie pig!" Leiko angrily shouted, pursing her lips in a pout. "But, I was actually being attacked by that unassuming coffin! Or well, I thought it was unassuming until it nearly made my heart jump out my boob window to its death!"

"Uhhh, e-excuse me?" I stammered, absolutely baffled.

"What exactly did this coffin do to you?" Sozen asked, raising a single brow. Though, he made it sound like he was genuinely serious despite the absurdity of it.

How can he stay serious after hearing that?!

"It sent a devastating chill through my blood! Like a knife to my skin!" she exclaimed while pointing over at the coffin, her fury made clear. "It was openly inviting me to come inside and it tricked me! I bet if I hadn't instinctually jumped out, I'd have been munched up too, I could have been a nice refreshing breakfast meal for that mimic that it most certainly is!"

Sozen palmed his face. "I somehow doubt that it's anything that harbors a desire for violence or any desires at all for that matter," he said with a strained smile.

Leiko harrumphed and looked away. "So what? I demand you give it a restraining order at least, officer!" she barked. "I swear it licked my taint too, damn pervs! If it wanted something like that, it should have just asked because consent is fucking hot! Though, I suppose mimics wouldn't understand that.."

"Were you that surprised by the cold?" I asked. "I thought you were the ice demoness or whatever."

"Shutup! That's why it should be executed for trying to steal my calling!" she stomped on the floor, her heels creating a loud *click* sound against the concrete. "I'm the true ruler of the ice element among demons, this wood for brains isn't allowed to manipulate the frosty winds against me!"

Sozen cupped his hand over his empty gun holster. "Don't worry, citizen, I'll deal with the criminal later," he assured amusedly. "We'll see what the trial has to say."

I looked at him with disbelief. "W-why are you? Ah, forget it…" I shook my head, took a deep breath, and turned to Leiko. "I uh…would like to know what you were even doing with the coffin in the first place, Leiko."

Sadness appeared to grow upon her face after hearing my question. "All I wanted was to be a vampire for at least a few minutes," Leiko replied like it was the biggest opportunity missed. "They always rest in these things for centuries, so I figured they must have five star reviews on Bloody Tomatoes. Therefore, I took my chance to rest inside one only to find out that I would be betrayed!"

I'm lost already, it only took a few minutes too. Where does Leiko get all this material for her craziness? I'd like to get a cut of that seemingly endless supply for possible novels in the future.

Bloody…Tomatoes?" Sozen pondered, appearing mildly disgusted and puzzled. "Sounds filthy to me. Is that a review site or something along those lines?"

"It is a real website, and you know you can trust it since real vampires use it daily."

"I-I think they are nothing but vampire wannabe emos, not actual vampires, Leiko…" I remarked, exasperated.

One day, I'll have the energy for this woman, one day…that will probably never come.

Leiko grunted in frustration. "That's precisely why nobody can prove they exist, everyone is just as stone-headed as you," she admonished, pointing her finger at us with a scowl. "Always coming up with excuses to justify their own theories as to what exists and what is merely folklore or pretenders."

"Is that why you have fake names in your book?" I rubbed my chin as I pondered pensively. "A means to justify your beliefs?"

"It's not my fault demons are so damn impressive at subterfuge!" she pouted, although it came off more so as admiration rather than a complaint. "They are always just under our noses. They only exist if you think they do, that's how you detect them."

I'll believe it when I see it. Except, that whole other side of Kado is the closest I've seen to what demons are described to be. However, I feel that's not really the case with him.

"So you claim that the coffin is freezing to the touch?" Sozen asked, gesturing to the coffin.

"And damp as a fresh cum rag," Leiko added.

Not the comparison I'd have chosen for that nor one my ears desire to listen to…

"Never use that comparison again, will ya?" Sozen grimaced in revulsion. "I will have to test it myself, just to be sure."

He walked over to the open coffin Leiko was standing next to and reached his hand inside to touch the cushioning inside. After a moment, he stood up and crossed his arms.

"Leiko wasn't bluffing or overblowing it," he tapped his shoulder. "None of these coffins should feel that damp or cold considering that they were found in the room temperature prop storage area. Furthermore, they remained backstage until the twins' performance called for their use. So there is no natural reason for this one to be this way. Regardless, we might as well check the other coffins just to be 100% on that."

Me and Sozen lifted the lids on all the coffins and felt around inside them. As we thought, none of them besides the one had the same dampness or cool feeling.

*Truth Bullet added*

Damp coffin

One of the coffins that was used as a prop for the twins' performance was cold and damp on the inside.

"Sooooooo, when are you going to do your job, Mr. sheriff?" Leiko asked while rocking her body side to side. "There's a criminal right there you know!"

Sozen lifted his chin. "The criminal I'm currently dealing with is lightyears more dangerous than an inanimate object," he remarked. He covered his badge as his expression became resolute. "Sorry to say, but I'm not going to play these games with you with that threat looming over us."

"Exactly, honestly Leiko, you need to start taking our predicament seriously," I said. "Nene was right. Everyone must keep a level head and not lose sight of our goal to survive. That does include you."

"Quiet quiet quiet QUIET!" Leiko shrieked in rage, wildly pulling at her hair. "Oh Leiko "you need to take it more seriously" "please be more serious," serious serious serious, blah blah blah!"

Her hair was now a complete mess, as if she got stuck in a windstorm. I couldn't help but leave my jaw agape in shock at her reaction.

"When will you start taking ME more seriously?" she continued, starting to pace back and forth while exaggerating every step. "Maybe this is how I cope with our situation, maybe I'm just trying to not let it get to me. What do you know huh? Ever consider the fact that I'm not you?!"

I held my hands out, my eyes widening in shock at her tirade. "L-Leiko you're being quite o-"

She abruptly stopped in place with a grand huff. "No! I will not hear another word about seriousness!" she furiously pointed at me, her fiery gaze and gritted teeth actually making me sweat a little. "Cause apparently I'm not allowed to enjoy life…ugh. I'm leaving, bye-bye uptight assholes!"

She aggressively marched off the stage and out the doors.

"Wow, that certainly went somewhere…" I ran a hand through my hair.

She had a similar outburst when I talked too much about her false signatures. Although, this one was way more visceral. I could chalk it up to her being insane as per usual, but I am starting to think otherwise. Perhaps there is a method to the madness afterall. That certainly won't be a trivial egg to crack, but she has my interest more than ever now. Something to consider if we make it past this day.

Sozen wiped his face. "She'll get it out of her system, hopefully," he said, pausing before the last word. "Let's not tarry on with that matter, as it's clear we'll get nothing but headaches out of it."

"Yeah, I have no intention of making a big deal out of that nonsense. If I recall correctly, you brought up Heikichi's elusive situation." I mused. "So, you haven't seen him, like, at all?"

"We were at the rehearsals together and he was with us right before the show began," Sozen explained. "After that, no, I had never seen him, not even during this investigation. He should have been up in the catwalks controlling the pyro. Which, as you had the pleasure of witnessing, was certainly the case."

I pulled down my scarf with a frown. "Last time, he was quite willing to assist with investigating, so it strikes me as strange that he hasn't even bothered to show up at all…"

"Perhaps it was no choice of his to not be with us."

The rules do allow for a double murder… Is this the reality we must face…?

I gulped rather heavily in consideration of the worst possible reason. "Should something have occurred up there that would cause this absence, it would behoove us to check the catwalks for him right this instant."

"Just my thoughts as well, he could very well be in grave danger or worse," Sozen agreed with a firm nod. "Enough talking for now, we must take action!"

He sprinted towards the ladder that led to the catwalks, practically shooting up it. Suffice to say, I was left in the figurative and literal dust.

I admire that energy to spring into action on a moment's notice. Sometimes, I do wish I had the same drive as some people.

---

-Catwalks-

Once I reached the final rung, I peered over to where the pyrotechnics station was. Sozen was kneeling down next to a motionless body. Most of the body was obscured, but I could see the signature brown beanie that Heikichi always wore.

I want to think he's not dead, it's entirely likely he's simply unconscious…but knowing this world, the truth wouldn't be so kind.

*ding dong bing bong*

"A body has been discovered! Yep, that's right, another one to the count! Gahahaha! Man, somebody must've really not been a fan of your worthless show!"

It felt as if my heart dropped fifty stories once that announcement sunk in. I squeezed my eyes shut and shook my head somberly.

And there's the confirmation. Here I thought we dodged a bullet with Rikako…This revelation opens up a whole new aspect to the crime, because it wasn't complicated enough already. Wait a second, I know that me and Sozen saw his body. Who was the third? Unless the rules for the announcement changed, someone else definitely has seen the body before us. That person has been hiding that fact from us for some reason. I just wish I could define exactly what that means in relation to Arishige's death.

I took a deep breath and approached Sozen to get a better look at Heikichi. Sure enough, there was a decent amount of blood pooled on the catwalks.

*Truth Bullet added*

Blood stains

Up on the catwalk near the controls for the spotlights and pyrotechnics, a decent sized puddle of fresh blood lay on the floor.

Sozen remained unmoving with his fist balled up on the floor and a pained look. "I should've come up here sooner," he muttered, moving his hand up to his badge and clutching it. "Despite my awareness of his absence, I failed to act on it."

I hardly had the strength to lift my arms. A side effect of being so close to the body. "I-I…when things are as chaotic as they have been, it's easy to get twisted up in your own reasoning," I told him, my voice sounding duller than usual.

Though, I know by now that he's too stubborn to accept any consultation, let alone from a recluse writer…

"Uuuughhhh…" A raspy groan came from Heikichi's mouth.

"H-huh?" I stood back in confusion, gawking at the man.

"Yoshizawa…?" Sozen arched a brow, also a bit astonished.

"Uuughh…" Heikichi groaned once again as he sat upright, his eyes remained shut though. Then, he groggily got up onto his feet and reached his arms outwards. With the wet blood dripping down his face and his mottled hair, he really looked like a zombie. He shambled towards me and pushed his finger into my chest.

"Aaghh, your…brains are…looking mighty delicious right now…" his voice was devoid of any emotion, completely dead in spirit. Then, he started snickering and smirking. In a flash, he flicked his finger up, hitting me in the nose and causing me to flinch in reaction.

Even in near death, he finds time to joke around?!

"Nah, I'm just joshing with you, I'm not dead you worry warts…yet," That yet hung with heavy meaning. He nearly tripped for a moment as he stood up straight with a dazed look. "Never felt better…"

*ding dong bing bong*

"Uhhh, A body has been undiscovered! Disregard my last announcement, as it appears the dead have been resurrected! But, don't get pissed at me for the mistake! You would be fooled too if some dude who got his head bashed in actually survived! Hmmpf, the indignity of it! Why can't you bozos do your job right? All you have to do is follow the light after being killed, is that really so hard? Die properly next time! Jeez…"

That saves us the trouble of letting everyone else know it was a false alarm. However, this confirms that Monotokage wasn't just doing a bit. Therefore, that third person that saw Heikichi is still a very prevalent mystery. Maybe they're the Blackened for Arishige's kill or we are dealing with an accomplice. However, that accomplice would have to be suicidal, knowing what we know.

Sozen left his kneeling position to stand face to face with him. "We need to get you to the medical room immediately," he firmly demanded, placing his hand on the back of the hacker's shoulder.

Heikichi brushed his hand off and stumbled forwards. "No thanks, I'm good. Tis but a minor headache," he proclaimed, yet his groggy manner of speaking betrayed that. "Anyways, care to give me the lowdown on what ever happened recently?"

"Arishige is gone and we're in the middle of investigating the circumstances around his death," I informed him.

He brought his hand up to his wound. "Shit…that probably explains why someone knocked me out cold," he forced out a smile. "Guess I'm quite lucky that I wasn't the culprit's real target."

"Your luck will run out eventually, and for your sake, you should seek medical attention before then," Sozen recommended, continuing to push the matter with more seriousness to his tone.

Heikichi waved dismissively with a sullen look. "I don't need you to dictate how to handle my life, dude," he then distracted himself with his device. "Besides, don't you want to hear the juicy details only I know? Though, I'm not sure my recollection of events will be all that reliable at the moment…"

This man is on another level of serenity and peace. No man can be this chill whilst having a bleeding head injury…

I belligerently shook my head. "Contrary to the cliche saying, the sense has been knocked out of you," I remarked before palming my forehead in disbelief. "You literally have blood flowing from your skull and you want us to just brush that off?"

"Hah! Good one," Heikichi carelessly responded. "As far as I'm concerned, I'm still standing and wide awake, so there's nothing to worry about. You'll have to wait until I've gone limp again, allowing you to drag me to the operating table."

Stubborn to the bitter end is he? Does he not know that if he dies, we'll have to deal with the consequences?

"You're delirious and clearly suffering from a concussion," Sozen warned, his lids thinning. "That's undeniable."

"Oh brother, at least let me shoot my shot first," Heikichi protested, sticking his hand under his beanie with a frown. "I'd hate to end up being useless because I have to rest in damn medical care. I might end up forgetting what info I do have."

"Sozen, I do think it wise to allow him to speak up sooner rather than later," I suggested, stroking my chin. "Lest we forget, we theorized that the pyro was used to kill Arishige. The man in control of said pryo would know pertinent info."

"Fine, say what you have to," Sozen gruffly said before folding his arms over his chest.

"Thanks for not being a complete hardass, certainly better than most officers," Heikichi commented, except the tone sounded disrespectful. "Alright, obviously, you guys should know that I was in charge of the pyrotechnics for the show. If you do believe that the pyro was the cause of his death, then I find that a bit bizarre. His pyro was pink smoke, not anything remotely dangerous."

*Truth Bullet added*

Pyrotechnics

The person in control of the pyro that was used during the show was Heikichi. All of the performers had their own pyro, Arishige's was pink smoke.

Sozen raised a brow. "So, you mean to say that whoever did it, did it deliberately and by their own hands."

"Exactamundo, I didn't just pull the trigger for them."

Evidently, he was struck to the side of the head with a blunt object. It's when that occurred that we must know.

"Then, do you have any clue when they attacked you?" I asked, leaning back on the tall catwalk railing. "Provide us with some kind of time frame when you were last awake."

Heikichi facial features tightened. "...Um…I kind of recall being conscious during the twins' performance…ugh," he responded, clearly struggling to speak about it. "I can't say that for certain however, since everything is pretty fuzzy right now. It's like they stuck my memory index with a null value, I just can't piece anything together."

*Truth Bullet added*

Attack on Heikichi

Heikichi was found lying on the floor with a bloodied head. He was struck on the left side of his skull with a blunt object. He doesn't remember exactly when he was knocked unconscious, but he knows that he was conscious sometime during the twins' performance.

"Well, take care to not strain yourself," Sozen instructed in a friendly manner. "I might be able to narrow down a more accurate time frame based on your blood."

He kneeled down and stuck his fingers into the puddle of blood on the floor. He rubbed his blood covered finger together and brought them up to his nose. Afterwards, he rubbed them off on the railing and closed his eyes in thought.

"The blood is quite fresh and is undeniably real blood," Sozen observed. "The strong scent of iron can attest to that fact."

*Truth Bullet updated*

Blood stains

Up on the catwalk near the controls for the spotlights and pyrotechnics, a decent sized puddle of fresh blood lay on the floor. It reeks of iron and is undoubtedly real blood.

"In other words, that means Heikichi was awake rather recently then," I noted.

Heikichi released an aggrieved sigh. "I really have amnesia then huh? Cause I can't remember shit after the twins' gig," he adjusted his wrist device with an uneven frown. "For all those times I get frustrated with those characters that conveniently forget everything in stories, now I finally understand their pain. Shit sucks, frankly. I want to provide more, I just…can't."

Sozen peered at him. "That's just the unfortunate side effects of a severe concussion," he concluded, furrowing his brows. "A very real condition."

Heikichi rubbed his neck. "Yeah, well, it doesn't make me any less annoyed at myself for playing the role of that moron who always seems to forget the most important shit in mysteries," he pinched his visor, smirking. "I give you permission to let out all your anger on me if I happen to get on your nerves for it. Really show me the boot will you?"

I faintly grinned. "You've suffered enough head injuries for one day, Heikichi," I joked and then shook my head. "Regardless, you're just as much of a victim as Arishige. We won't hold anything against you if you cannot assist us."

"You can say that all you want, but nothing holds your thoughts back from judging. Since, I'm no psychic" Heikichi began rapping the screen on his device. "Although, I'd be nice if I could just stick some wires into a brain and hack into their thoughts. Unfortunately, technology hasn't gotten that far yet, I think anyway."

I sincerely hope it never does. Our brains are meant to safekeep our personal feelings and memories, it's the most effective safe in the world.

"If that is all, it's time for you to get your woozy ass into the medical room," Sozen commanded as he approached Heikichi.

Heikichi held out his hand to stop him. "Wait! Something just popped up into my head, and it's not some random advert either," he hastily said, holding up a finger with a pleased smile. "I saw who I believe to be the attacker, before I got conked on the skull."

"And they are?" I questioned with much curiosity in my voice.

He hissed out some air and gave an uncertain smile. "Um, well, I didn't see them in a clear light or anything," he pushed his visor down in thought. "Right as they were about to swing their weapon, I caught a glimpse of their arm's shadow. They were holding what looked like a medieval hammer with an angel wing-like claw on the back of its head. It might not contribute much, but I can't let this slip from my mind later."

*Truth Bullet added*

Blackened witnessed?

According to Heikichi, he saw the shadow of his assaulter's arm and the weapon used as it swung at him. He said that it looked like some kind of hammer with a single angel wing-like claw.

Sozen stretched his back. "Fantastic, now let's get a move on before your condition worsens," he held out his arm as if to invite Heikichi into it.

"Alright, alright…but I'm perfectly capable of escorting myself there without a shoulder," Heikichi uttered dismissively, frowning.

He turned his back towards us and began stepping forwards…only for his legs to buckle underneath him and he fell forwards. Thankfully, Sozen quickly caught him, so he didn't slam face-first onto the metal flooring.

And there he goes…looks like his body disagreed.

"Damnit Yoshizawa, this is why we learn to take better care of our wellbeing," Sozen whispered, clearly annoyed, as he hoisted him onto his back. "Miyasaki, I recommend searching the prop storage room for that hammer he spoke of. Many criminals tend to return their weapons to the location they found them, so it's likely it may be there. In the meantime, I'll attend to this stubborn bastard. Maybe I can get Nene's assistance as well."

"Can do, I was also considering checking that place out regardless."

Sozen briskly jogged back to the ladder and climbed down it, somehow managing to keep Heikichi in place while using the ladder with a single hand.

Arm day everyday eh? I fear that Monotokage would force Heikichi to participate in the trial despite his injury. Hopefully, he can recover fast enough to handle that. There doesn't appear to be anything left to find up here, so to the storage room it is.

---

-Prop Storage Room-

Kaiya and Juro were also here and appeared to be arguing with one another.

"Why do you always rely on all those dumbass nick-nacks n' shit?" Juro questioned, glowering at her.

"I wouldn't go as far to call it reliance on them," Kaiya pursed her lips. "I'm just utilizing them to my advantage."

"Sounds like reliance to me," Juro coldy remarked before flexing proudly. "I prefer to work myself to the core for that sweet satisfaction. Those dumb tools suck the fun and accomplishment out of it I say."

"Excuse me, there is fun to be had with my gadgets!"

"Like what?!"

"The experimentation of it!" Kaiya raised her arms with a furious look. "You never anticipate how they'll perform in the field and it's interesting to see them in action. Plus, there's all kinds of fun versions of them if that's what you fancy."

While I can't say much to support all the crazy secret agent gadgets that are out there, I can understand the appreciation of new technological inventions. I make use of electronic documents all the time for the ease of compiling all my ideas and plot structures. I eagerly await the day when I can think the words onto the paper, regardless of my location. I can't count how many times I've come up with some genius lines and then promptly forget them once I put a pen in my hand…

Juro shrugged and scoffed. "I see your point, but I don't give a damn," he proclaimed before scratching his head. "I would like to fuckin' know, did you even make those yourself?"

Kaiya hugged herself and faced away from him. "I-I try to!" she sputtered desperately, then a look of defeat formed on her features. "Except not really. Most of my gadgets come from a lab, crafted by other genius minds."

Juro's expression became one of triumph. "Yeah, so, you're relying on other people's work to function," he ridiculed, raising a fist. "As a man of practicality, all your gadgets are a bunch of bullshit to me! I can just do everyfuckingthing myself without any damn toys to make it easier."

There's some logic to that I suppose. In survival situations, it helps to have practical skills to utilize human ingenuity to make it to the next day. Especially when technology is in short supply or a non-factor entirely. Functioning without them is important.

"At least I'm intelligent enough to use the most basic devices!" Kaiya rebuked, her anger getting to her now. "And for the record, I can function efficiently without the use of them."

I refuse to believe that's true.

"Oh really, can you now?"

"...Thinking about it…nope actually."

That's more like the Kaiya I know. I couldn't see a world where she isn't messing around with gadgets 24/7.

"Then what the fuck is the deal!?" Juro exclaimed, gritting his teeth. "You know I'm somewhat correct. I mean, I can teach you a thing or two about putting your hands and brain to work."

"Your brain? Like you knew how to use that properly!"

Juro growled and raised two trembling fists. "Fuck you! I got this far in life, so clearly I've used it sufficiently enough!" he shouted back.

He shot his gaze over at me and grinned as if he wasn't just raging hard. "Omezo? what's up?! Didn't catch you walkin' in."

I leaned on a wall and crossed my legs. "I was going to investigate this room, but you two seem to have different ideas of how to go about that," I frowned, I was a bit amused though.

"We were operating smoothly until this lug nut made a foolhardy comment," Kaiya pointed her thumb at Juro, rolling her eyes. "I thought we all evolved past the days of resenting technological advancements, but noooo."

"Bitch! I respect technology as much as it respects me, which is not at all!" Juro retorted, back to being overbearingly loud. "If they wanted me to appreciate them, then maybe they should stop fuckin' annihilating my brain!"

Laiya craned her neck back at the ceiling. "Oh my gosh…Omezo, can you share your refined opinion on the matter?" she asked, appearing very fed up with him.

"Honestly, I believe there's a place for both methods to function together," I answered, rubbing my chin thoughtfully. "It really just depends on the situation in which one outperforms the other."

I didn't want to be dragged into this conversation, but that is my honest opinion on the subject.

Juro peered at me in disapproval."You're one of those types of dudes?" Juro questioned, although it sounded like he already assumed the answer was yes. "Just pick a side, bro. There isn't a third damn option to go with!"

I shrunk back and obscured my face using my scarf in shame. "L-look, I uh, have no desire to argue about this. We have a c-culprit to find and less than a day to figure it out," I stammered, not knowing exactly how to respond. "Evidently, you two have not um, been making progress towards that right now…"

"I agree, and to prove the superiority of gadgets, I will be using my blood detector!" Kaiya announced with a peppy smile as she whipped out a crazy looking machine.

It looked sort of like a radar, what with the antennas and the mini satellite dish sticking out of it. Most notably, it had a long metal rod on the "front" of it with a large blacksteel disk attached to the end of it. It was reminiscent of a metal detector in a way, though it was very inelegant in design.

Juro stared open-mouthed in utter confusion. "The hell is that?!" he exclaimed. "That looks like something a robot shit out."

"Just sit, relax, and let the machine work its magic."

She held the disc part out in front of her as she strode around the room, swaying it back and forth to scan every nook and cranny.

*bweep* *bweep* *Breep!* *BREEEEEEP!*

The device started loudly beeping in quick succession, much like a metal detector, when she got super close to some kind of blue cloth that was draped over a crate. It was very clearly stained with blood spots, although minor in quantity.

Bloody cape

A bright blue cape in the prop storage room that was draped over the end of a crate. It has some bloody spots on it.

"Aha! Works like a charm, see!" Kaiya exclaimed exuberantly, her eyes sparkling with delight.

"Do you seriously think I'm that much of a dumbass?" Juro questioned in anger, shaking a fist in the air.

"Kind of," Kaiya shrugged, though her expression remained neutral.

"First of all, not cool. Second of all, I have two eyes that were just as capable of noticing the most fuckin' obvious blood ever," Juro stated, every word carrying much rage with it. "This proves absolutely fucking nothing!"

"I mean, he's got a point," I shrugged with a faint smile. "Even with a single brief glance, most people would see a bright blue piece of cloth with bits of red on it."

"Hmpf…the both of you have no respect for technology and the novelty of it!" Kaiya complained as she hoisted the device and rested it on her shoulder. "Besides, I'm not giving up just yet. There's still some crates that need to be searched in-depth, another duty for the fantastic blood detector!"

That thing must have a shoddy radius for detection if she needs to open crates for it to react to the objects inside. I'm skeptical about this being a legitimate gadget made by genius inventors as she put it. Maybe this was her attempt at it?

She began with a crate that was already uncovered and out in the open. She stuck the metal disc of her device inside.

*BREEEEEEP!* *BREEEEEEP!* *BREEEEEEP!*

"It's fast and efficient, as you can see," Kaiya glared at Juro with a wide grin.

"Don't get fuckin' cocky just because you got lucky," Juro countered, but he did sound pretty in denial about it.

I walked over to the crate so I could get a better look at what she discovered. My eyes were drawn to a hammer that had trace amounts of fresh blood on it. The hammer itself nearly matched up with Heikichi's description of the one that was used against him. It was medieval styled, appearing more like a weapon rather than a tool, and had a pointed backend to its blunted head.

This can only be the weapon that knocked Heikichi unconscious, as there wouldn't be any other reason for it to have fresh blood on it. Plus, that lines up with the blood up in the catwalks. However, there's one single key difference between this and Heikichi's recollection: it doesn't have any angle wing-like parts to it. In fact, it is a pretty basic design altogether. This could mean two things: Heikichi's memory is flawed or something else casted that shadow and made it seem the way it was. I suppose it's not impossible for it to be a red herring, but until I see another hammer that 100% matches the one Heikichi saw, this must be the one I was looking for.

Warpick

A war pick that had a bit of blood on it was found inside the prop storage room along with many other medieval weapons inside a box. The warpick itself doesn't really have anything remarkable about its design.

Kaiya grabbed the warpick and lifted it out of the box, then pointed it at Jurobei.

"We should thank the gadget for locating this key piece of evidence, shouldn't we?" she smirked cockily.

"Why the hell would I? We probably would have gotten around to that crate soon enough on our own," Juro clenched his teeth and balled a fist. "This whole argument is a load of horse crap! Anything your hunk of metal has detected could be accomplished by human senses all the same."

"You may be right, but at least I try to spice up the methods instead of taking the boring route," Kaiya retaliated indignantly, folding her arms. "Anyways, why is there even a bloody hammer? Arishige was taken out by needles with no signs of head trauma or anything."

"Heikichi was attacked with it, up on the catwalks," I replied, squeezing my gold scarf. "He was out cold when me and Sozen came across him. We believe the assault occurred during the show, we just don't have an exact time pinpointed yet."

Juro seemed surprised. "Oh shit! I guess we should be grateful he has a hard head," he said, elation present in his tone as he scratched his neck. "Still though, getting laid the fuck out ain't a good time for anyone."

"I was curious as to where he ran off to," Kaiya commented before slouching with a dejected look. "Now I wish I had gone through with my idea to spy on him…"

"You were planning on stalking him? Why?" I asked, finding it somewhat absurd.

"You never know what the people up in the catwalks of theaters are up to," she explained, raising a finger. "It's the best place to commit dastardly deeds under everyone's noses. Trust me, I would know."

That doesn't exactly make you sound trustworthy, Kaiya.

"Yo, that's creepy shit," Juro abruptly remarked, appearing weirded out.

"It's an ingrained aspect of my line of work, dork."

"Still creepy shit."

"My goodness! you're a brick wall when it comes to changing your mind…"

"I prefer to use the term, self-confident as hell, and there's not a fuckin' thing wrong about it!"

Kaiya shrugged. "I can say the same, so I can respect that," she commented respectfully. However, her expression swiftly shifted to be full of smugness. "Almost as much as I respect the superiority of nifty gadgets!"

This is the epitome of a stalemate between two immovable powers. A prime example of why I can't choose sides…

I tuned out their ceaseless arguing and focused my attention to the inside of the box that the hammer was in. A particularly elegant sword caught my eye, it had gemstones slotted along the hilt.

Nene would probably be a fan of this one… wait is that…?

Upon closer inspection, there was a faint blotch of red that ran down the blade. I reached out to touch it. It felt quite dry and I had to scrape it off with my fingernails. The way it just crumbled to tiny bits, coupled with it's red hue, it was definitely blood.

*Truth Bullet added*

Blood on sword

Some blood was found on a sword in the same crate as the warpick. However, the blood was not nearly as fresh as all the other blood found.

Now where in the world did this blood come from? Its freshness is not consistent with all the blood from Heikichi, yet it was in the same box as the hammer. Therefore, it's not impossible for it to be the same blood I guess. The problem is, this is a sharp piece of metal, so who's to say someone else didn't just cut themselves on it sometime earlier? If only we had actual forensic tools at our disposal… I might as well ask these two about it.

"H-hey, uh, do you guys have any clue as to why there's dried blood on this sword?" I took the sword up in my hands and presented it to them.

"Hmmm…" Juro thought while twisting his goatee before promptly giving up. "Nope, nadda single damn thing. Certainly is suspicious though."

"I wouldn't know either, I learned my lesson in the morning with toying around with that stuff," Kaiya answered with a grin. "If it's as old as it looks, then there's not really a connection to be drawn between it and the hammer. At least, not for now. As I'm sure we'll have our minds blown during the trial and there will suddenly be one."

"Well, I can think of a few things. Except, I'd need to figure out if anyone cut themselves at any point," I mentioned, rubbing my chin.

"Have fun with that, bro," Juro said before flashing Kaiya a vexing glare. "Me and Kaiya can sus the rest of this joint out."

"And by that, he means to argue some more," Kaiya huffed. "Cause he hasn't budged one bit yet!"

Yeah, I'll for sure be taking my leave. Sitting around listening to boisterous shouting is not my ideal definition of progress. Besides, I don't really believe there's much else to find here anyways.

---

-Backstage Hallway-

Much to my chagrin, I came face to face with none other than Anzai whom was just as displeased to see me.

Can't wait to get my own pride snuffed out by his, which is the equivalent to a sun in size. Not that I had a ton of pride in the first place.

"I was hoping you wretched ants weren't busy infesting the storage room, seems that was too much to ask for," he complained in disgust. "I shouldn't have disappointed myself with this revelation."

I lightly shook my head and my eyes rolled. "I hate to keep you, but why the determination to search that room without anyone there?" I questioned, my tone indicating my suspicions.

"Never did I say that I wanted to search it, low-class ape," he insulted with a grimace. "I'm lightyears ahead of you morons already in regards to the murder, so I have no desire for further research."

"Then what business do you have there?"

"None of your business! That's what."

"If you want to be enigmatic about it, then I'll just have to mark you as a prime suspect."

"This is precisely why I want no part of this stupid game and all you idiots' noisome antics," he furiously stated before changed to his sunglasses, throwing his gang signs. "All ya' fools nevah' stop diggin' ya' noises where it don't belong!"

"So you'd rather lazily lie in bed and contribute nothing?" I ask. "Honestly, if you truly are the Ultimate Genius, I feel if we had your assistance, this shit would go smoother."

He changed his glasses to horn-rimmed ones. "Don't be a fool, if I lent a bit of my brain power to a gaggle of undeserving gooses, I'd be shaming myself," he rebuked in a saisily voice. Then, he swapped to the monocle. "Not to mention, it's a waste of time, time that could be well spent under some steaming water and a nice piping hot cup of coffee."

"Ensuring your survival can hardly classify as a waste of time," I rebutted, furrowing my brow.

"You cannot define that for me," he returned to using his normal glasses. "Whoever the culprit may be, they are physically and mentally incapable of surpassing my deduction no matter how much effort I exert."

"Do you even care that an innocent man just died?!"

Seriously though, not everything serves the purpose of inflating your ego and accomplishments.

He raised his arms in the air, a gesture of clear carelessness. "A man that I barely knew greeted death, boohoo," he clicked his tongue before an uneven frown formed. "An earworm of a man no less. But, don't get me wrong, which you almost certainly did, death isn't something I enjoy or wish upon others. I simply do not let it bother me or spill my tears, let alone for those that are many levels underneath me. A mere inconvenience and naught else."

"Sure, I suppose there's some sense in that," I shrugged and gripped my scarf with narrowing eyes. "Though, you could at least be less of an asshat about it…"

And you know, maybe try being a human being for once. Not letting deaths crush your spirit is a good thing to have in this age of despair, something I wish I was better at. But, I wouldn't sacrifice my integrity as a decent human for it.

He harrumphed. "What does it matter? He's gone and can't hear a word I utter," he countered in a mocking tone. "Do yourself a favor and stop creating non-existent emotions in the place of other people. It makes you look like a babbling numpty. Which apparently is a good look these days…for whatever god forsaken reason."

I frowned and shook my head. "I'm not going to take advice from you, Anzai," I said without any respect.

He clutched his chest and gave the most fake despondent expression ever. "Wow, I'm sooo appalled that you would ignore me. Here I am, giving my honest attempt at niceness, and schmucks like you continue to be nitwits," he sarcastically remarked with a scornful glare. "It's just not worth the brain aneurysm."

I rested my hands against my sides. "Look, whether you know who the Blackened is or not, not everyone is just going to agree with you, and if you withhold information, we'll point fingers at you," I said in disapproval. "If there's one thing you should do, it's to explain what you were doing at the time."

"I suppose it would be wise to tell you. Knowing that you are idiotic enough to jump to conclusions," he sighed and gripped his wrist. "I was enjoying me time on the first floor, because much to my benefit, all the dimwits were congregating down here. That was, until Arishige had to go and die, disturbing my lucky break."

"That does not help your case at all, like it literally does nothing to clear your name," I said. "Is there really no more to it?"

He closed his eyes as his demeanor shifted to passivity. "...Refresh me, you were the one who caught me at my worst moment weren't you?"

"Yesss? I'm assuming you are referring to your amusing roleplaying game?" I rubbed my chin with a tiny smirk.

He frowned and scoffed. "Don't humor me with amusement, it was ignomic," he quickly denied assertively. "Nonetheless, in that case, I can lend you more details, since the pot has already been soiled."

"Go on then."

"I cannot claim to know the inner workings of your little show, but I can hazard a guess that it was before Sukey's performance that I decided to pay a visit to the storage room. I waited for Sukey to leave and snuck into it. It was quite the easy feat, might I add."

"How long were you in there for?"

"Using the glorious violin music I heard as a frame of reference, it was after that concluded," he explained with a hint of admiration. "Didn't keep it in memory exactly when, but I heard metal noises to the beat of walking and quickly made my escape."

"Did you see anyone during this excursion?"

"Not that I was aware of," he answered, pushing up his glasses with a cocky grin. "I perfectly planned out my infiltration and escape, so no one saw me and I saw no one."

"Was there anything off in the room itself? Out of place objects or maybe blood?"

"Everything was in its rightful place," he replied before glancing off to the left. "Though, due to my hasty retreat, I left some things unkempt."

*Truth Bullet added*

Anzai's Alibi

Waiting for Sukey to leave, Anzai snuck backstage to play around in the prop storage room. He was there until sometime after Sukey's performance. He claims to have heard someone coming, so he ran out as fast as he could. But, he saw no one at any point and nothing strange in the storage room either.

"Are you hinting at the fact that you opened the crate that was in the middle of the room?" I asked while raising an eyebrow. "It had a pretty fancy sword in it, if that is something you saw."

He positioned his hand as if he was readying a backhand. "What're you getting at?" he asked, sounding very perturbed. "I've said more than I usually would, is that not enough for your petty satisfaction?"

"I'm not doubting your alibi, this is just my curiosity speaking," I reasoned, holding my hands out defensively.

He groaned for an unnaturally long time, like a child would in annoyance. "Loathe am I to sate it, yes, I did indeed see such a blade," he pulled his armband with a fatigued look. "However, I did not lay a finger on it, since my interests lied with a dagger. Alas, you deserve no more from your superior, I'm done with you. Toodles~"

He sauntered out of the hallway towards the backstage.

Despite how against the idea of helping us he is, that was an improvement over last time. Perhaps there's a shred of uncertainty in his own deduction this time around or a glint of consideration even… Regardless, he admitted to being in that room near Arishige's time of death and opening that crate. Which means he is at the top of the list suspect wise. The one thing that's holding me back from accusing him outright, is that he went out of his way to tell me that much. An action that is not indicative of a criminal. Thinking about it, I should ask the twins' to fill me in on how long the performances were.

Assuming they were still in the dressing room, I went to turn the knob only for the door to swing open suddenly revealing the twins behind it. My heart nearly jumped out of its cage as I lurched back against the wall.

"Holy! Did you have to fling the door open with that much haste?" I gripped my scarf over my chest. "How do you have such perfect timing…?"

"Hmhmhmhmm~" Rikako pressed her fingers on her lips.

"It's all in the psychological analysis of it," Shuuyo's lips pulled into a fine line. "You cannot cower within your mind from our influence."

"Slowly but inevitably, we will worm our way into your very souls, no dream, no thoughts, and no afterlife will be safe from us," they sang, their voices creepily haunting my ears.

I was sweating bullets. "A-as if you haven't done that already…." I gulped hard and regained my composure. "Anyways, I n-need you two to enlighten me on an important matter regarding the show."

"Whatever it may be, we are willing to treat your ear."

"What are the exact lengths that each performance had?"

"Sozen's was 30 minutes, Leiko's was going to be 25 minutes, a disappoint it was not seen through to its end. Ours was 40 minutes, Sukeys was 15, and Arishige would have been 50 minutes."

*Truth Bullet added*

Performance times

Each of the planned performances had a set length of time that they'd go on for. Sozen's was 30 minutes, Leiko's was 25 minutes (except she ran off immediately), the twins' was 40 minutes, Sukey's was 15 minutes, and Arishige's was going to be 50 minutes.

"I'll be frank, I did not expect you to pinpoint everything right away," I remarked in disbelief, my eyes gaping.

"As the hosts, it would be shameful of us to forget the details."

I ran a hand through my hair. "Well, your memory is certainly impressive," I complimented with a faint smile. "Though, I also want to know if there were any specific times for the breaks in between them."

"Normally, 5 minutes is the preferred amount for those," they answered while adjusting their bows. "In this instance however, the next performer would arrive on stage as soon as the stage is set. Which can end up being an unpredictable amount of time. Henceforth, there is no exact time we can provide you with."

I shoved my hands into my pockets. "Unfortunate, but I do greatly appreciate the information," I thanked and nodded. "It should prove as a significant leg for future theories."

Ding dong bing bong

"Investigation time has officially closed! Get your whiney heinies in gear and head to the trial room elevator! If I catch any of you hanging around for last second peeks, I'll poke yer eyes out! Cause I'm too hyped to delay the trial any longer!"

The twins longingly gazed upwards. "The time for our deciding fate is nigh," they announced in a hollow tone.

"Will it be cruel…?"

"Or will it be forgiving…?"

"We must be willing to embrace the consequences either way," they looked at each other, their expressions sullen.

And with that, they left the hallway.

Hopefully, we didn't miss any critical evidence. With the way this murder had played out, every bit counts.

I took a relaxed breath and began the trek towards the trial room.

---

-Outside of Trial Elevator-

The others were waiting by the elevator, which was as rusty and ancient looking as always. Nene, Masakado, Sozen, Heikichi, and Kaiya were not here however.

"The elevator is as welcoming as ever…" I observed, slipping into the group discreetly.

"If only our bastard of a host was more concerned with health," Norito lamented. "I gave it my all to try to convince her to allow me to touch it up. But, man, she is the coffee stain of sentient beings, didn't budge at all. So we're stuck with this revolting construction."

"No matter, we prefer the imposing nature of it, as it compliments its purpose of delivering us to our likely doom," the twins sweetly smiled. "The reptilian may be deplorable, but her tastes are impeccable."

"Ah yes, we all enjoy fearing that the trembling lift might plummet downwards at any moment," Anzai said, over-exaggerating every word. "You two and that blasted gecko have some of the worst ideas of a good time."

"And I have the best ones, right!?" Leiko cheered happily. "I'll have you know, I studied the book for decades in the mountains. The book."

"Hah! Not in a million years, knave," Anzai retorted dismissively before putting on his monocle. "You think I'd believe that you of all morons would comprehend the eloquence of literature? Preposterous I say!"

"I heard what happened with Heikichi in the background while the show was going on," Sukey rubbed her arm, sorrowfully looking down. "I can't believe we never realized! We are extremely fortunate he's still with us."

"But not lucky enough to spare Arishige…" Norito pushed his hat down and frowned. "With all that happened, it was a mistake to not consider proper security protocols."

"It was our confidence in our fellow man that caused us to ignore those procedures," Rikako admitted, shutting her eyes.

"As such, we are at fault and we would not deny you of our deserved ridiculing," Shuuyo solemnly nodded with a dull look.

"It doesn't have to be that way. It was still a helluva time for us before now, for what it's worth," Juro reasoned, scratching the back of his neck. "Yeah it's a huge bummer that we lost someone, almost two, but that's not really all on you."

"I concur, it's the twisted toenail of a culprit that's to be reprimanded for their behavior!" Sukey exclaimed with some vigor.

The twins tilted their heads and grinned. "Hmhmhmhmm~ gormless of you to trust that we are not one in the same," they stated as their gaze darkened and intensified. "We do acknowledge that our alibi is feeble enough to be broken."

"It would be imprudent of us to point fingers so hastily," I rebuked, a nervous smile creeping up. "There's a heck of a lot of evidence to discuss and put together still. Even if certain alibis aren't the sturdiest, they can be reinforced if we make other discoveries and connections."

"Speaking of alibis, what's with those five buffoons?" Anzai impatiently asked, his irritation evident. "Are they daft? Monotokage very clearly stated what they'd do to those who delay us further!"

"I'm pretty sure Nene and Sozen are trying to get Heikichi back on his feet," I presumed, rubbing my chin. "Kado would be with them as well. Kaiya, well uh, don't know what her deal is…"

Just then, Sozen, Nene, Masakado, and Heikichi entered the room. The latter of whom was using Sozen's shoulder as support as he drunkenly stumbled towards us.

"Apologies for the delay," Sozen said.

"This weakling took hours just to bandage up," Nene commented, sounding every bit agitated. "He squirms more than a rat caught in a trap."

"Woah now, don't go making me out to be that wimpy!" Heikichi defended in offense. "I was just making it more of a challenge, Nene! I figured you'd appreciate having to push yourself to the limits."

Nene grunted while brushing off her capelet. "A thoughtful, yet aggravating approach for that," she retorted, scowling. She started tapping her rapier's grip. "It is true I enjoy challenges, outside of matters that should otherwise be trivial that is. If I am tasked with saving a life, I'd rather not end up with that blood on my hands because I wanted it to be difficult."

Heikichi shrugged his shoulders. "Oh, well in that case, I might as well admit that I was a wimp," he laughed with a knowing smile.

"You end your relationship with a lie far too soon," Kado admonished, his expression and tone full of disappointment. "Consider the consequences if you meet them once more."

"Considering consequences? Never heard of it!" Heikichi exclaimed, though it seemed he was purposely acting clueless.

"Oh my gosh, same!" Leiko cupped her cheeks in excitement. "Consequences are for Normans!"

Heikichi stuck his hand underneath his beanie. "I thought you would be impossible to relate to," he gave an approving smirk. "Guess I was wrong, shooting the shit with you might be quite fun then."

Laiko cracked a coquettish smile. "I'm always open! in more ways than one," she joyously stated, letting her tongue hang free as she blushed.

Sozen scanned the room.

"Kaiya isn't with you guys?" he asked, crossing his arms with a smirk. "Or is she just pulling a cloaking device prank?"

"If she is, we have no way to confirm that," Norito said as a devious grin splayed across his face. "Although…I could toss around bleached water and see if it soaks the air itself!"

He took off a squirt bottle from his tool belt and sprayed it into the air.

…

"No reaction? Guess she isn't here then."

"Wasn't she with Jurobei last?" I pondered, biting the tip of my pen. "I'd assume that argument of yours didn't conclude in time."

"We did end on a fuckin' stalemate thanks to the investigation time ending," Juro explained through gritted teeth. "As dumb as shit as it sounds, she literally vanished into thin air while we were walking here. Secret agents are somethin' else, man…"

"Were it anyone else, I'd say you are pulling the wool over our eyes," Sozen commented, tapping his shoulder with a frown. "Luckily for you, she's done the same for me once before. Seems to be a habit of hers."

"What kind of a ridiculous habit is that?!" Anzai scowled in bewilderment.

"Something we may need to watch more carefully," Nene warned threateningly, placing a hand on her side. "People do not vanish and then return without any reason."

"A reason that may prove nefarious perhaps? Is that what's going through your head?" Kado sneered with satisfaction. "Kekeke, Kaiya isn't all too different from me. After all, we both deal in lies and secrets to persuade the public."

"I will not start vilifying Kaiya behind her back," Sukey vehemently proclaimed, sounding quite upset. "She likely just had some personal matters to attend to."

"Why hasn't Monotokage dragged her here then?!" Nene questioned, her temper souring. "She nearly had our head for our delay, yet Kaiya has been absent for longer."

"That's a good ass point honestly," Juro agreed, scratching his hair.

"Maybe she got banished into the shadow realm!" Leiko passionately claimed with a gleeful grin and hop. "That'd explain why she disappeared like that."

Fortunately, before things got worse for her, Kaiya showed up, looking no worse for wear.

"What's with all the hubbub?" she asked, seeming genuinely clueless. "I heard some shouting when I was near the doors. Jurobei is still being very vocal about his incorrect stance or something?"

"Just wondering where you were is all," Sozen's brow tursed as he regarded her with suspicion. "If you would care to enlighten us?"

"I see that a few of you are cutting into me with stares," Kaiya commented, a mirthless chuckle escaping her lips. "I suppose you do have cause for that. Next time, I'll try to be more normal about my exits. Sorry for making you guys worry."

"It's not that we thought you were dead," I rested my hands on my sides and stared her down. "It's why you suddenly dispersed from Juro. Monotokage specifically requested us to be here immediately and you took a while to get here."

"Not to mention, she didn't seem to mind that you were biding your time," the twins pursed their lips with their fingers covering them. "Judging from your pristine health, she didn't punish you at all like she said she would."

Kaiya's hand shot up to her earpiece and she frowned. "That's because I was doing something for her," she explained without much hesitation in her voice. "As absurd as that is. I'm surprised too."

"Excuse me, woman?!" Anzai exclaimed angrily, gawking dumbfoundedly at her. "You don't just casually just admit to that!"

"You were working with our foe?" Nene's eyes were overcome with ferocity, her tone menacing. "This better be similar to what she has Norito do."

Monotokage popped up in between us, standing in front of Kaiya. She was clearly pissed off.

"Kaiya! Why are you this terrible at putting a cap on it!" she shouted, raising a claw. "I chose you because I thought it was reasonable to trust a secret agent to handle discrete tasks! You call yourself an Ultimate and that's all it took to pry it out?!"

"You never said I had to be secretive about it," Kaiya smirked while shrugging with one arm. "Not my fault your contract was under-detailed. Anyways, she wanted me to retrieve the schematics that were in my room. Schematics that the FF decided to provide me with since they thought my devices were all hand-made I guess."

"Zip it! Say any more and you'll spoil the entertainment for the rest of us!" the lizard demanded. Her arm then morphed into a massive cybernetic cannon. "I will not hesitate to blast you to smithereens!"

For what reason would she require schematics? Obviously, to build something I know, but the purpose eludes. If the mention of entertainment is anything to go by, it's not going to be something to look forward to.

"Aye-aye!" Kaiya saluted, nervously sweating. She then looked over at us in shame. "As you can see, I wasn't in any position to reject her request. Becoming a red stain on the floor via plasma cannons is not a way I want to go out."

"She does drive a hard bargain…" Norito said in a fatigued manner and swiped his forehead.

Giving it some thought, couldn't Monotokage just exercise her authority and get them herself? I mean, I could chalk it up to her being extremely lazy, which might be completely in character for her. Except, a small part of me is yelling at me to doubt Kaiya. However, I can silence it for now, since Kaiya never struck me as the type to betray us, let alone work with someone like Monotokage. After all, she was quick to admit it and seemed to even be pleased to annoy Monotokage in the process.

"I feel you've sufficiently explained enough to warrant less suspicion," I surmised, adjusting my scarf. "More than any typical person would say, but um…that's to your advantage really."

"Enough of you bozos and your annoying banter!" Monotokage whined, pointing her tail at us like a knife. "The trial room awaits and I hunger for your impending demise!"

We all complied and entered the elevator one by one. The rusted doors squealed as they slowly sealed us in. Soon, the elevator began its descent into the darkness below, my nerves hightening every foot we traveled.

---

-Trial Room-

This time, the room was very bright and colorful. Filled to the brim with many swirls of pinks and whites, reminiscent of Arishige's favored palette. Decorating the outer edges of the room there were giant perfume and hairy dye bottles, barber seats, and massive standing mirrors. The wall was painted with what looked like a collage of different hairstyles and facial examples. There were also shiny streamers hanging from the sealing in an arch-like formation.

I fear for those with sensitive eyes, were they to come into contact with this room's blinding vibrancy…

We made our way to our pedestals. Once I got to mine between Nene and Leiko, I glanced over to the signposts with the monochrome self-portrait that took the place of Isoyo and Arishige. Isoyo's had a paint brush and a chisel forming an X on it, and Arishige's had a fuchsia X that glittered.

"My retinas are twisting in agony," Masakado repelled backwards, squirting his eyes. "We are cursed by that man ending up a victim…"

"Tell me about it," Anzai remarked with a repulsed expression as he brushed off his medal. "Blue is the color of champion geniuses like me, therefore the superior choice! Pink is for posers, that's why they share the same beginning letter."

"I was following my trend of honoring the fallen! Don't give me shit for him being so fantabulously tacky," Monotokage countered. "It's like you youngins didn't even care for the man!"

"Vocal minority," Heikichi stated confidently before slightly frowning. "He was a fun dude to be around, kinda sucks to lose him. Even though his salesman persona was a bit much."

"He was doing his best to improve his attitude around us today," Sukey mentioned with a pained smile. "I was overjoyed that he was willing to join us for our morning bonding session, he did a lot to make that experience enjoyable…"

"And now he gets to do business with demons…or angels," Leiko said, sounding like she was taken by wonderment. "Better for it to be demons, they always have the more interesting trade offers!"

Arishige…my initial impressions of him were sour and I wanted nothing to do with him. Now that he's gone, I cannot deny that I almost miss his ridiculous enthusiasm and showmanship attitude. Plus, his goals in life were more admirable than most, and that's something that will be buried along with him if we fail here… I want to be more confident in avenging him and finding the blackened, but I just can't muster the energy after what happened with Isoyo… There are people among our group I cannot bear to send to their death like that. Why does survival have to be so cruel? Maybe it'll be Anzai…god that sounds so fucked to beg for…but what if…? Nevertheless, we must find the Blackened! One life for many is always the logical choice…right?