"Kuma Kuma Land Case File #5
"Victim #1: Lachlan Kenway"
"The Victim suffered extensive burns over his entire body."
"Cause of death is unknown"
"The time of death was approximately 12:07 A.M "
TRUTH BULLETS
Postmortem use of Wax
Trails of wax and blood
State of the Wax encasing
Chest Wound
Tomoko's Account
Lachlan's mysterious theory
Tomoko left alive
Trail in the Museum
Pictures and timestamp
Missing Murder Weapon
Chloe & Laris' alibi
Haruto's Account
Dolly/Annabelle/ Seikatsu's Alibi
Shiho/Kaizoku/Naruhiko's Alibi
Chapter 33: Eternal Bonds: Act Two
7:20 A.M Day Thirteen
Resort District
Hotel
Basement (Trial Room)
"Greetings, demons. You are tasked with a noble quest. I would offer to help, but no one really wants me to be in their group, so I will officiate. Your quest is simple. You must uncover the foul one who has become a sheep in wolf's clothing. No, wait, that's wrong, isn't it?" Saishikuma fidgeted slightly as he stood at the judge's podium.
Becky groaned. "It's called a wolf in sheep's clothing, you dumbass, Can we get on with this, already? Let's figure out who killed the dead boy!"
"Could you possibly show a bit of empathy?!" Tiana snapped as she struck her whip against the podium, causing a loud crack.
The Ultimate Shogi Player shook her head. "Don't pay it any mind. Every second we waste is time we could be spending to find who killed Lachlan. I sure as hell won't let them get away with this!"
The hooded bear shivered slightly and awkwardly took a seat before tapping his scythe against the podium like an oversized gavel. "O-Ok, then. This is the onset of the fifth trial… Let the demon hunting commence."
"I suggest we start by discussing the autopsy, or at the very least what Annabelle was capable of performing," Seikatsu said as she fixated her attention on the child.
Annabelle nodded softly. "I-I can't offer as much as I would like, but I'd like to start by saying that this case is important because the files were missing an important detail." TRUTH BULLET
"No cause of death, correct? I'm assuming it has something to do with the wax covering Lachlan's body," Chloe offered.
"Exactly. The wax, which I'm sure was added postmortem, was meant to cover up the cause of death!" Annabelle exclaimed. TRUTH BULLET
Shiho tilted her head slightly. "So how in the world did someone get Lachlan to the wax in the first place? I'm pretty sure there was none in the mansion."
"I think it's fairly safe to say the body was moved to the museum and covered in wax, then returned to the mansion after it hardened," Laris surmised. TRUTH BULLET
The Parental Figure frowned. "But how exactly did someone manage that? I'm not an expert by any means, but wouldn't that have left a lot of physical evidence behind?"
"Aye, it would have. There was, in fact, a trail of blood and wax. However, it was far less substantial than you might expect. Of course, that was because the culprit found an easier way to move the body," Kaizoku responded.
Dolly raised an eyebrow. "How was it done, exactly? Moving the body, that is."
Naruhiko cleared his throat. "Zoku and I found a wheelbarrow in the storage area of the museum. It was covered in wax and blood. Sure as shit seems like the best way to me." TRUTH BULLET
"So the question is if the blackened killed Lachlan before or after moving him to the museum," Tiana mused thoughtfully.
Tomoko sighed softly. "...It was definitely beforehand. While the case file omitted a lot of information, it did include the time of death. I know it was just a few minutes after midnight when we were attacked. The culprit wouldn't have had the time to transport him and kill him elsewhere." TRUTH BULLET
"The amount of blood found in the hallway seems to reaffirm that, so that clears up one aspect of the crime, but there is something else that doesn't make sense. I believe you said you were both attacked in the fourth floor hallway, and yet Lachlan's body was found in a vacant room. Was there a reason for the body to be placed there? Furthermore, why did the killer not kill you?" Chloe questioned. TRUTH BULLET
Becky offered an indifferent shrug. "Seems pretty easy to me. The broad just found an elaborate way to stage her own attack, so none of us would be any wiser."
"I knew it was only a matter of time till someone suggested as such. I'm not going to stand here and scream about my innocence. I think you have all the proof you need to know that I couldn't have done this myself, nor… a motive to want to hurt him, of all people," Tomoko replied in a quiet manner.
The Dominatrix nodded in response. "I saw the knot on the back of your head and I'm pretty sure you suffered a minor concussion. If you were going to stage some sort of ruse, I doubt you'd risk your own life to accomplish it."
"Aye, I know it's only human nature to assume the person at the scene itself was involved, but we also found no sign of the weapon or object that was used to knock her out. Whatever it was, was rather small in size and, from the mark on the lass's noggin, seems to have been round in shape," Kaizoku pointed out. TRUTH BULLET
The Tarotologist nodded. "It's likely this instrument was also taken by the killer as well."
"But what would be the point of doing so?" Laris questioned as her gaze flitted around the room. "The murder weapon is one thing, but if the means that knocked Tomoko out was something simple like a hammer, why bother in covering that up? My suspicion is that the killer knew the weapon used to kill Lachlan and harm our Shogi Player would be incriminating. If I'm right, they didn't have any option but to take it with them." TRUTH BULLET
Naruhiko frowned as he rubbed the back of his neck. "Eh, it makes sense, but I don't think it really helps us narrow shit down that much."
"Agreed. Perhaps we should shift our approach now?" Shiho suggested quietly. "We may have a general sense of the how, but to figure out the who… We have to know who had the opportunity, right?"
The Forensic Investigator offered a vehement nod. "Yup, that's a good place to continue. Let's start by seeing who does and doesn't have a proper alibi!"
Haruto took a steadying breath. "I-I have severe doubts about the conclusion, but when we're talking alibis, it seems that only Tiana and I didn't have one for the time of the murder. Both of us had returned to our rooms following our date." TRUTH BULLET
"Then it seems pretty simple to me. Like it or not, it has to be one of you," Naruhiko stated bluntly as he crossed his arms.
The Dominatrix shook her head vehemently. "That's ridiculous. Haruto and I had no reason to harm anyone, let alone Lachlan. The last thing on our minds last night was murder."
"Maybe, but he's not wrong. If neither of you have an alibi… it means one of you has to be the killer," Dolly said in a demure manner.
A sigh escaped the Shogi Player. "Before we go down this rabbit hole, I'd like to hear everyone else's alibis for myself."
"Yes, there is no harm in ensuring there are no holes in our stories before moving forth!" Seikatsu's voice boomed as she rested a hand on her side. "Dolly, Annabelle, and I were enjoying a slumber party, and all three of us were awake and together during the time of the murder. Therefore, our innocence is absolute!" TRUTH BULLET
Kaizoku offered a half-hearted smile at the girl's declaration. "Aye. Shiho, Naruhiko, and I were also together. Following what happened in the sewers, we agreed to adjusting our living quarters for the lass' and our own benefit. Just like with Seikatsu, Naru and I were still awake talking after Shiho had dozed off. We can safely remove all three of us as suspects!" TRUTH BULLET
"We've eliminated six suspects so far, or seven if we also count Tomoko. That leaves us with only Chloe, Laris, Haruto, and Tiana," Annabelle stated with a look of worry as she glanced between the group of four.
Laris cleared her throat. "I'm not sure if Chloe has shared any… details, but she and I were also occupied for most of the evening."
"Yes, Chloe stated as much… However, as I recall, she also stated you both fell asleep prior to the murder itself," Haruto said as he chewed at the end of his thumb.
"Is there something you wish to say, darling?" Chloe asked in a surprisingly sharp tone. Her eyes fluttered for a moment.
The Knight offered a calm smile. "Chloe, it's alright. He's just being thorough. We do have an alibi, but it isn't as ironclad as everyone else's. Suffice it to say, it's only fair that everyone does their due diligence. We can't afford to make the same mistake twice."
"I-I just find it hard to believe any of you could be the killer," Shiho said with a troubled expression. "How do we even begin to go about narrowing things down further?"
Tomoko frowned. "As it stands, seven of us have iron clad alibis, two of us have tenuous alibis, and two more of us have no proper alibi at all. We need to explore all of the evidence to narrow this any further."
"Leave everything to me, Tomoko. This time around, Naruhiko Murai has this all figured out. I'd like to present a damning piece of evidence!" the Musician exclaimed as he rifled through his jacket. He then produced the photograph he and Kaizoku had discovered in the museum before holding it up.
"Eh, so what are we looking at? Haruto is in a picture with a kid? So what? I'm sure Jared from Subway had plenty of those kind of pictures too!" Becky snarked.
Haruto slapped his hand against the podium with a cross look. "That is absolutely uncalled for. Do not, for a moment, associate me with someone who would ever prey upon a child. I'm not sure how you came about that photo, but it is one from the digital collection I keep of children I've worked with in the past. If you found it somewhere incriminating, I assure you it was planted there to paint me as a culprit."
The Ultimate Sailor frowned. "I had much the same thought when I first saw it. It does seem a bit too convenient, but there is something else that is more troubling. The timestamp on the photograph says May of 2019."
"I'm afraid I'm not following. Why wouldn't it be in May of 2019?" The Parental Figure gave a confused look.
"It's because most of us were captured around the same time in early 2018, Uncle," Annabelle said as her brow knitted together.
Naruhiko nodded. "Which is exactly where I'm getting at. We still don't know who killed Nagito, but I'm damn sure it wasn't Shi. Then something else dawned on me: Who would go out of their way to protect these children? If you thought that Nagito threatened these kids, bears or not… you'd do anything to protect them. Maybe even murder. Then something else dawned on me: What if you've been helping them all along? Maybe you arrived here later than the rest of us because you've been helping behind the scenes!"
"Th-That's simply not true! While I do sympathize with these children, I would never set an example by killing, or condoning such a lifestyle," Haruto responded in a shaky breath.
"I can't believe I'm agreeing with that moron, but he does raise a good point. You would be an excellent mole. What better ally to a bunch of deranged children than a Parental Figure? If you don't have some sort of counterargument, I suggest you start talking," Tomoko said in a blunt manner.
The Ultimate Dominatrix shook her head and held up Haruto's album in her hand. "I can't believe you think Haru would ever be capable of that. Look, he has plenty of wonderful pictures in this collection, but a photograph and a wild theory alone shouldn't be enough to condemn him."
Haruto offered Tiana an endearing look as he managed to muster some confidence yet again. "Tia is right. My album is also a camera with a built-in printer, so anyone could have planted that photo. As for your theory, Naruhiko, I-I know it does make some sort of sense, but I don't know what else to say. I'm not behind any of this and I just know that I wasn't taken until the beginning of 2020."
"I'm not trying to be an asshole here, but something is going on. You're the only one who was taken at a different time. There has to be a reason for that!" Naruhiko shouted.
Chloe stifled a yawn before shaking her head. "Non, I'm afraid you're off base. He wasn't the only one captured later, I was also taken much later than 2018. Your theory is plausible, but there is a pretty simple explanation. Haruto and I, especially for our line of work, were constantly moving abroad. The fact is that the people behind this likely struggled to find us. I suppose that makes your theory about the dates null and void. As for the picture found, why would Haruto, who has an album, print out a picture and leave it there? The answer is he wouldn't. It was a plant, plain and simple!" TRUTH BULLET
The Punk Musician sputtered for a few moments before his shoulders went slack. "...Fucking shit. I thought I was really onto something. Way to kick a guy in the balls," he muttered as he offered a guilty look over at Haruto. "Sorry for jumping on you like that, dude. This shit is getting to me."
"I-It's fine. Now isn't the time to get hung up on things like that. Is everyone satisfied that I didn't do this? Or at least that it's very unlikely?" Haruto asked as he gazed around the room.
"Aye, lad. I think we can safely say you're not our culprit. Though I have to admit, without that red herring of a lead… I'm not sure where we go from here," the Sailor mused as he rubbed at his chin.
"Well, to give you demon hunters a little help, I can confirm that not everyone was taken at the same time. As powerful as despair is, some people take longer to find than others," Saishikuma said from his podium.
"Then that means Zoku is right. We're back to square one again, and with no leads." Shiho frowned and crossed her arms.
Laris shook her head. "No, that isn't quite true. I think we can safely say we've eliminated a suspect. That is a cause worth celebrating. We just have to keep pushing for the truth."
"Perhaps I can help in this noble endeavor. We may have been handed a clue inadvertently. Haruto, dear, you said that your album can be used to print photographs, correct?" Seikatsu asked in a haughty tone.
"Oh, well, yes. Of course. I haven't done so in a while, though," the Parental Figure said.
The Tarotologist chortled behind her hand. "Ah, then it is as I expected. What if it wasn't you, but your significant other that did so? She left the photograph as a means of shifting the blame on you!"
Tiana's eyes widened before a look of anger registered on her face. "How dare you?! I would never betray Haruto's trust! Besides, what motive could I have for wanting to kill Lachlan?"
"I'm not sure about the motive, but you do possess the album itself, which means you were able to plant the photo. You don't really have an alibi either," the Ventriloquist pointed out.
Haruto shook his head vehemently. "I don't care if she had access or opportunity. Tia would never do something like this."
"And yet one of us had to, Haruto," Chloe pointed out with an unreadable expression.
Tomoko shifted her gaze as her body tensed. "True, but when I factor in what would have been required, a trained assassin seems more than capable of rendering me unconscious and killing Lachlan. I can't help but notice you've been yawning and barely able to keep your eyes open this entire time. Is it because you weren't sharing a night of passion, but instead killing one of the only people I gave a shit about?!"
"I do not kill without a purpose, and believe me, I wouldn't have left any witnesses if I had planned to strike. Don't underestimate Tiana. She came to me looking for training, and I'm sure she could have easily caught you both off guard in the heat of the moment," she said as she eyed the Dominatrix. "In fact, her desire for training could have been an excuse to be prepared for last night."
Tiana cracked her whip against the podium as she snapped. "Take that back! I wished to learn how to protect myself and others; I'm not a KILLER like you are!"
"Stop this. Yelling and screaming isn't going to solve anything. No matter what it takes, we have to find the truth. Lady Annabelle, I'm counting on you. I know you can solve this. You have to," Laris implored as she stared at the child.
"B-But I don't know who or what to believe. If I had any clue what killed Lachlan, or even what was used to knock out Tomoko, then I could. But I don't have anything. It just vanished with the killer into thin air. I..." Annabelle trailed off as her gaze fixated on a single point.
Kaizoku raised an eyebrow. "Lass, what is it? Did you figure something out?"
"It was you. It was always you," Annabelle whispered as she felt tears welling up in her eyes. "Your words always held more than one meaning to them. You knew about the plan to capture Nagito, and you're the one link that ties this case together," she choked out as she raised a hand before gesturing towards a single individual.
Silence prevailed throughout the room as the group began to recall fleeting memories since their arrival in the park, more specifically ones regarding one individual.
"I assure you, this is no jest. I've seen enough bloodshed and carnage to know what's real and what's not."
"Despicable. I've already bore witness to the atrocities one of these games, I will not give you any such satisfaction. I already failed my Princess, I will not allow any harm to come to these people."
"Please I implore you to stand down. I was reckless for challenging him. It is clear we're in a disadvantageous situation. It seems martial might is not a sufficient solution."
"Admittedly you're not mistaken. Even in Novoselic it was a dying tradition, and yet was my dream be like a Knight of old. To protect Lady Sonia and the rest of the Nevermind Family."
"The sense of irony isn't lost upon me. I so desperately sought to be able to stand at her side as her protector, but by the time I was acknowledged for that role it was already too late. I couldn't protect her or the rest of the family from the tragedy. I simply survived when I should have perished."
"So many innocent people died today, and it seems it was for nothing more than the amusement of someone in this park." The blonde paused as her soft blue eyes stared off into the distance again. "There's so very little left of my homeland. I should have died with the rest of my people, and yet here I am. I have to believe there is a reason for that. For now all I can think of is what happened to Princess Sonia, and wonder if she had the same things floating around in her mind at the time."
"When Novoselic fell, and even afterwards, I was forced to do things that I'm not proud of. Lying and deception at times became part of it, even if the notion disgusted me. I ran across more than a few agents of despair. My sword is no virgin blade, of that much I can assure you."
"Whether it is fruitless or not, I will not gladly surrender to some predetermined fate. Not when there's so much at stake. I'll press forward until my dying breath."
"As of late, my armor has been more of a burden on my soul than anything. What point is there to wear the tabard of a nation that now lies in ruins? The lives I've sworn to protect are more important than my pride,"
"I'm not feeling like much of a captain. Hell, I don't even deserve to be called a knight. A knight is duty-bound to defend the kingdom, the people, and the crown. The last time I checked, I've been incapable of doing any of the above."
"If only it was today's failure on my mind. You don't get it, though. I've lied to everyone and concealed my identity, but it's not just that. I've got more blood on my hands than you could possibly know. You both would be better off just keeping your distance. Those around me tend to meet with terrible fates."
"I'm afraid you'll have to find that answer on your own. It seems I'm of no use to anyone either, I can't even protect a little girl. I don't know why I still carry this sword,"
"I… I've always been that way. After having to kill to survive the Tragedy, I question everything I do anymore. Sometimes it's hard to know when I'm making the right or wrong decision. I gave my word to look after Kana, and look how well that panned out. I just need something I can be sure of. A knight without a lord or country is nothing,"
"It's because I'd do anything to protect those I care about. These days, that list is very short. You, Chloe, Annabelle, and the others are precious to me. I couldn't protect my sister or my homeland, but I can at least try to protect you and the others,"
"But even if I do care, it doesn't change the reality, does it? The little boy, regardless of what he may have done, is dead - or gone entirely - because of me. I-I have to be responsible for my actions."
"Shiho, I've always put something or someone before myself. The only time I ever chose myself was when I was forced to escape Novoselic. A skong can't change its spots so easily. Enough of my baggage, though. What about you? Am I merely reading into things, or do I detect some connection between you, Kaizoku, and Naruhiko?"
"I've killed people just to survive. To escape Novoselic, I had to slay more men than there are participants in this game. I'm a killer, but, if I let that self-loathing consume me, it'll crush me. Focus on the here and now, and do what you can to atone for that. That's all you can do. As I said, I see you as a victim as much as anything else. Kurokuma preyed upon your desire to protect the one you cared about. He must be a very special person."
"But what if you felt like you had a commitment, a heavy burden that constantly weighed on you? Something you couldn't walk away from?"
"M'lady, do not put such a burden on your shoulders. I have faith you will arrive at the truth. You are a gifted and bright young lady. Just remember your training, and everything will be fine," Laris said in a soothing tone as she rested a hand on the girl's shoulder.
"No matter what it takes, we have to find the truth. Lady Annabelle, I'm counting on you. I know you can solve this, you have to,"
7:45 A.M Day Thirteen
Resort District
Hotel
Basement (Trial Room)
"Th-The blackened and killer is none other than you, Laris Nevermind!" Annabelle choked out as her entire body began to tremble. TRUTH BULLET
Chloe shook her head frantically. "Non, non! That is simply impossible. Lari, tell them all how wrong she is. You would never take the life of an innocent. You are a stalwart knight, first and foremost!"
The Ultimate Knight fell deathly quiet for a moment as she unsheathed her blade and set it upon the podium. Its blade was still streaked with a noticeable red tint. "Chloe, I'm sorry, but I haven't been a true knight for a long time. I want you to know that I never anticipated falling in love with you. Whether you believe anything I say or not, know that my feelings for you are genuine."
"N-No fucking way. There's no way this is for real." Naruhiko struggled to speak as he covered his mouth with his hand.
Shiho bit her lower lip to keep herself from breaking into hysterics. "Laris, why? Why would would you do this? It doesn't make any sense! This isn't who you are!"
A dark shadow fell over the Knight's face. "No, it isn't who I am. And yet, I obeyed and did as I was told. I don't expect any of you to forgive me or understand."
"UNDERSTAND?! There's nothing to fucking understand! You killed Lachlan! And for what goddamn reason? You fucking bitch. I hope you scream during your death game!" Tomoko snapped as she stared at the girl with a mixture of hurt and resentment.
"...Captain, please help us understand. What made you do this? Are you truly the one who killed Nagito?" Kaizoku asked as he bowed his head and clutched at his bandanna.
"Hope, and my loyalty to my sister," Laris responded wistfully. "Sonia gave me a reason to live. When she died and Novoselic fell, I was left without a purpose in life. All I could think about was the last time I saw her before she departed for Tokyo..."
BEGIN FLASHBACK
SEVERAL YEARS AGO
"M'lady, I swear to you that I will not cease until I am at your side again. I-I am admittedly not comfortable with the idea of being on an airplane, but I will traverse a million planes for your sake!" the young teen exclaimed as she knelt before her sister before looking up with a determined expression. "One day, I will become the Ultimate Knight so that I may follow in your footsteps."
"I have no doubt that you'll achieve that. However, don't do it only for my sake. I would love to have you at Hope's Peak with me, but do this for your own sake," Sonia explained as she smiled down at her sister. "Now please, stand up."
The short-haired knight bolted to her feet before offering her a grin. Her set of armor was far too big for her current frame to the point of being comical. A single Band-Aid rested over her misshapen nose. "M'lady… Uh, Sonia, I will dearly miss you. You've been so kind to me despite my impure blood, and I… I just want you to know that it means everything to me."
The Princess partially covered her mouth to suppress a giggle. "Laris, you know I don't care about you being my half-sister. You're still my sister to me." Sonia carefully leaned in and briefly hugged the knight-in-training, being mindful of her armor. "I'll miss you too. Be sure to listen to Sir Gregory. He'll make an Ultimate out of you."
Laris grinned from ear to ear as she awkwardly embraced the Princess. "You have my word. He's sort of miffed at me right now. I broke my nose chasing after a massive Skong, and missed our last practice. I wanted to bring it back to you before you left today."
"I know I would have loved to have it as a going away present. Oh well, at least your heart is in the right place. I'm sure Sir Gregory won't be upset for long," Sonia said as she took Laris' armored hand in hers. "I'm sorry I won't be here when you go hunting for the Golden Makango. I know the wedding is far off, but I wish you the best."
"Perhaps you shouldn't wish for my good fortune on that particular hunt," Laris mused as her smile buckled for a moment and she met Sonia's gaze. "You know I love Tanzo, just not like that. I don't think I'm wired like that, to be honest." She said the last part in a voice barely above a whisper. "But I will do what I must. My happiness pales in comparison to my duty as a Nevermind."
Sonia placed her hand on the tomboy's cheek as she smiled warmly. "I understand that all too well. The duty part, at least... I know it will be rough, but at least we can be happy that it is with a friend, and not with some stranger. I'm sure Tanzo will try to make you comfortable as well, or else he'll be dealing with me. I know you want to be my knight to protect me, but I'll always watch over you as well. Understood?"
The Knight blinked back tears as she nodded and tightly embraced her sister once more. "We will always watch over one another. Our bond and my oath are eternal."
END FLASHBACK
7:52 A.M Day Thirteen
Resort District
Hotel
Basement (Trial Room)
Seikatsu stared blankly at the Knight before speaking in a monotone manner. "What does your betrayal have to do with the deceased Princess? I fail to see the connection."
"...The person behind this promised to bring her back to life, didn't they?" Shiho asked in a shaky voice.
"Wait, bring her back to life? What the shit does that even mean? That's bogus. I mean, things like that aren't possible!" Naruhiko exclaimed with a look of disbelief.
Haruto frowned as he shook his head. "...We would have thought the same thing a short time ago in regards to souls being trapped in the bears. It's clear we have a far smaller grasp of what's possible. Laris, can I ask you a single question? If this was your goal all along, why were you so cooperative in this trial?"
Laris shut her eyes before sighing softly. "I was forbidden from admitting my guilt. You all had to arrive at the truth on your own. That being said, I never wished to escape justice. I deserve what lies ahead of me."
"S-So you helping with the investigation and the trial... you just wanted me to realize the truth? To nudge us in the right direction without giving us the answer?" Annabelle wiped tears out of her eyes.
"Indeed, M'lady. I appreciate the sentiment of your tears, but I don't deserve such a reaction. I betrayed all of you to fulfill my deepest desires. Were I forced to go back, I would not change my course. However, it doesn't mean that I don't resent my actions," Laris said.
Kaizoku gritted his teeth together. "You've been carrying this burden for a long time, haven't you, Captain? Your words since the beginning carry so much more meaning now. You knew the double life you were being forced to lead, and yet you hated yourself for it. I thought it was merely for your actions following the fall of Novoselic. I had no idea what you were carrying with you. I can't say I forgive you, but I sympathize with your situation."
"I-I can't say anything without sounding like a hypocrite. I betrayed everyone to protect someone I cared about, too," the Runner said as she ran her jacket sleeve over her eyes.
Dolly frowned as she hugged Becky tightly. "Maybe, but you didn't kill anyone to get what you wanted. There's a pretty big difference."
The Dominatrix stared wistfully into the distance. "It's hard to say what any of us would do if given the chance to save someone we'd lost, or to protect someone who is in jeopardy. Laris, I would berate you for everything you've done, but it seems so pointless now. You seem to be prepared for whatever happens next."
"I've been prepared since this game began, M'lady. I truly have appreciated every moment with all of you. I might be a traitor, but my feelings and moments with all of you were genuine. Believe me when I say it would have been easier if I could have remained detached," the Knight said as she tried to force a smile, only to feel a single tear streak down her cheek.
"Just stop it! Stop talking like it's all over!" Chloe screamed as she lunged off her podium and made a beeline towards Laris. She quickly climbed onto the podium with the Knight before shaking her vigorously. "I've got blood on my hands, too. I may not have any from this game, but I have more than any normal person should have. Lari, please, I beg you… don't just walk to your death. Don't make this some desperate attempt to atone. You can't atone for your sins if you're dead. Fight to the last breath! Do you hear me? Live and make this right to all of us!"
The Knight stared adoringly at the Designer before draping her arms around her waist. "You're still standing here after what I've done? I truly don't deserve a girl like you. If it brings you comfort, I will fight… even if I don't think I deserve the right to. However, first I owe you more than just an apology, Tomoko," she said as her attention fixated on the Shogi Player. "Do you wish to know of his last moments? "
Tomoko pressed her trembling hands against the podium. "Goddammit! Tell me everything. I want to hear it from you. I deserve that fucking much!"
"Very well, I will honor that request. It's very least I can do. I assure you, he was courageous and unflinching to the last breath," Laris responded in a somber manner. "Shortly after I left the pizzeria last night, I was contacted and told that I had a final assignment..."
BEGIN FLASHBACK
12:03 A.M Day Thirteen
Spookyland
Haunted Mansion
Fourth Floor (Hallway)
Tomoko slumped to the ground unceremoniously as a silhouette became visible in the light of Lachlan's phone. Before him, he saw Laris brandishing her sword. "Don't worry. She might be disoriented, but that blow likely wasn't a lethal one. She's not the one I'm here for, anyways," the Knight said as her eyes locked with his.
"Laris... What the fuck?!" Lachlan exclaimed as he took a step back. His eyes frantically looked over the Knight. "Guess that means you're not gonna be holdin' back with me, huh?"
"I know this is hard to believe, but I truly harbor no ill will towards you. You're just too smart for your own good, Lachlan. You should have stayed at the hotel, but you already know what you'll find in that room, don't you?" the Knight asked as she nodded at the shut door. "You know who's behind all of this. If you hadn't been so impatient… so reckless… perhaps it wouldn't have come to this."
The Journalist shook his head as he sighed. "Looks like I'm still an idiot, after all. Should've figured they'd have someone else under their thumb. Guess I'm not seein' morning light, huh? Tell me this, at least: were you blackmailed into this like Shiho, or is this somethin' else?"
The Ultimate Knight took a step forward and kept her gaze on the Journalist. "I've done horrible things, more than I can possibly list in a single breath. However, everything I do is for my sister, for my country. It may be a longshot, or even a fool's hope… but any opportunity to save my sister is one that I will take without hesitation. You have my word that I will not kill Tomoko. I've been assured that this last act will secure what I've been working for since the beginning."
"Heh, glad you get to do that. Sure hope the blood you've spilt over her will be worth it," Lachlan muttered as he tucked his hands into his pockets. "So what happens after you gut my sorry ass? You gonna leave all the others for another death game and save your sister?"
"No. As much as I would desire nothing more than to live on and see Sonia again, I have become the very thing I swore to fight. I will atone with my life and likely spend my afterlife in hell or purgatory for what I've done to reach this point. I won't be able to protect her any longer. I just have to hope this next time… she won't need someone like me," Laris breathed as she stopped directly in front of the Journalist. "If it gives you any sick comfort, know that I will not be far behind you," the Knight whispered. She suddenly shifted before driving her blade through the boy's chest with one swift stroke.
Laris pulled the blade free and sheathed it before turning to regard Tomoko. She carefully righted the unconscious girl and leaned her against the wall, then sucked in a sharp breath as she started towards the stairs...
Lachlan sputtered up blood as he struggled to look towards the Shogi Player. "Dammit... Sorry, Tomo..." The Journalist weakly patted his chest, not bothering to attempt to staunch the bleeding. "Shit, ruined another jacket..." Lachlan joked grimly with a low chuckle. He started coughing and wheezing before choking on his blood and finally succumbing to his wound.
The Knight cast a glance over her shoulder and watched the boy slump to the floor. She swallowed the lump in her throat and forced her legs to move once more. Now that Lachlan was dead, her mission was nearing its end...
END FLASHBACK
7:59 A.M Day Thirteen
Resort District
Hotel
Basement (Trial Room)
"After that, I returned to Chloe's room," Laris explained before her attention shifted to the Femme Fatale. "You see, the reason why you've been so drowsy is because I slipped you something. The last thing I wanted was for you to become involved in my crime. I guess that's one more thing I have to apologize for."
Chloe sighed as she leaned up and stole a kiss from the Knight. "Idiot, stop apologizing. I wouldn't be standing here if I didn't forgive you."
"Wait a second, there's something that doesn't add up. If Laris returned, then what about all the wax and shit?" Naruhiko asked with a confused expression. "And what about the photo?"
Saishikuma cleared his throat. "Oh, I guess I should own up to that. The boss wasn't happy that things would be so simple for you demons, so I was ordered to make things more interesting. I was a very busy bear last night!"
"You've gotta be shitting us! Most of this mess was just because you wanted it to be more entertaining?" Becky shrieked.
"Yeah, I'm afraid so. It's what all you heathens deserve. I'm only casting retribution on all of you. Now stop dragging this on before I get in trouble. The blackened is obviously Laris, so there's no sense in voting. What do you say we get straight the main event?" the bear asked as he straightened in his podium.
"Another death game?" Haruto shook his head as he recalled the last one. "Laris, I hope you can find what this world has taken from you. I believe you are still an honorable person deep down, that your honor has merely been tarnished as of late."
"Captain, I find myself conflicted in so many ways. However, I can say that it's been a pleasure to know you. May you find peace whether you return to us or if this is your last stand," the Sailor said as he saluted the Knight.
Shiho quickly shuffled to the other side of the Knight to wrap her arms around her friend. "I-If all else fails, Laris, just keep running. No matter what happens, you will always be a precious friend to me."
"Thank you both. This is more than I deserve," Laris responded with a strained smile.
"Very soon, you will probably get what you deserve," Tomoko snapped, though she seemed more emotionally drained at this point. Her eyes were red from crying. "Can you at least tell us who's behind this? You must know!"
The Ultimate Knight bowed her head low. "Everyone, nothing I can do will ever earn your forgiveness. However, please accept this humble advice from a failure of a knight. While I won't do anything to compromise my deal to save my sister, you have everything you need to solve the greatest mystery of Kuma Kuma Land. Put your faith in Lady Annabelle, and I have no doubt you will find the answer as a team."
Annabelle sniffled as tears flowed freely from her eyes. "I-I'll do my very best! I promise. For you, Lachlan, and everyone who's left!"
"Of that, I have no doubt. You came through for us, Anna," Tiana said in a soothing tone.
"Enough chit chat! It's time for a death game: the grey knight versus the white and black knights!" Saishikuma exclaimed. He then tapped his scythe against a button, causing a series of chains to appear and wrap around the Knight's legs. She was pulled out of sight, her bloodied sword remaining on her podium.
The monitors in the room slowly flickered to life.
"The final confrontation between Death and Justice is drawing closer," Seikatsu whispered to herself, staring at the screens as they slowly came into focus.
8:07 A.M Day Thirteen
Resort District
Hotel
Basement (Challenge Room)
The lights in the room flickered on to reveal a small coliseum littered with dozens of weapons. Laris could see two different entrances from her position in the middle of the arena. On one side emerged Shirokuma, donned in full white armor and equipped with a large flail. In the opposite direction, Kurokuma could be seen with a crude set of black armor and a bastard sword in his paws.
"So this is how it ends? With a fight to the death?" Laris stooped down before picking up a shield and a rusted longsword. "I'm surprised to see you both here. What are the terms of this death game?"
"Uh, well, it's pretty simple, really. Either you leave this arena, or we do. I would wish you good luck, but I don't want to die," Shirokuma said with an apologetic bow.
Kurokuma snorted as he pointed his sword at Laris. "Hah, let's call this the battle of the bastards. Winner takes all! Let the battle begin!" he yelled. A crowd of kumas in the stands began to cheer loudly.
"This is not how I envisioned my last moments, facing off against a couple of robotic bears. May the best prevail." Laris exhaled slowly as she watched as the pair slowly circle her like a pack of wolves.
The white bear let out a shrill yell before hurling his flail forward at her face. Laris narrowly sidestepped the strike, allowing it to sail over her shoulder. The weapon struck Kurokuma in the face, sending the bear tumbling to the ground.
Laris wasted no time and sprang forward like a lioness, bringing her shield against the side of Shirokuma's face. This staggered the bear, who stared with horrified eyes as the rusted blade in her hands made contact with his neck. Sparks flew as the white head of the bear toppled to the ground and rolled for several feet.
The Knight landed in a crouch and began to rise, a triumphant smirk on her face, but it was short-lived. She soon felt a searing pain in her back. She let out a ragged breath before she tilted her head downwards to see a blade protruding through her abdomen.
"BAHHAHAHA! Only I get to kill Shirokuma. I know it's not the most honorable way to kill you, but hey, you're a bastard being killed by a bastard sword, so let's not get hung up on details!" Kurokuma cackled.
A dry laugh escaped Laris as blood began pooling from her mouth. "I should have remembered how fast you were after the first death game with Patrick. Hey, you know what's funny?"
The solid black bear snorted. "What, you gonna tell a few one liners before bleeding out?"
"No, I was just stalling for a little bit of time is all. I guess no one is leaving this room." The Knight flashed a bloody smile before turning her blade on herself and lodging it through her own chest, through her back, and in between Kurokuma's eyes.
The Ultimate Knight barely registered the thud of the bear's motionless frame as she slumped against the ground. She could feel the life ebbing from her.
Sonia, I failed to be the kind of Knight I swore to be. I don't think I'll ever be remembered as a knight of any worth, but I hope you know that, if given the same chances, I wouldn't change a thing. Novoselic needs its Princess… no, its Queen. I just wish I could have lived to see the day of your coronation, but I have a debt to pay. Whether it be in hell or somewhere in between, someone like me isn't a knight… but a pawn. But, so long as a pawn can save the queen, it's a sacrifice worth making...
A ragged gasp escaped the blonde before she was consumed by darkness.
The Ultimate Knight was no more...
8:16 A.M Day Thirteen
Resort District
Hotel
Basement (Trial Room)
"Th-The Demon Knight claimed two more victims! Ahhh, the demons are getting too powerful. Now what do I do?" Saishikuma exclaimed as he grabbed at his hood in a frantic manner.
"Dammit! She was so close!" Tiana cursed as she squeezed her eyes shut.
"Captain, may you find peace in the next world," Kaizoku whispered as he took of his bandanna and clutched it against his chest.
Chloe slumped onto the podium and pulled her knees against her chest as she bowed her head. After a few moments of quiet, sobs could be heard.
Seikatsu folded her arms. "I don't mean to eclipse the somber moment as the moon does the sun, but with Kurokuma and Shirokuma gone… what does it mean for the rest of us?"
"Fuck, maybe it means it's over? I mean, Kurokuma was pulling the strings, right? There's no way this dweeb in a hood is in charge," Naruhiko mused as he rubbed at his chin.
Tomoko offered a quiet sigh. "I wish it were so simple, but there's no way that they risked all of their hierarchy in a single death game. For all we know, those two could have backups."
"Maybe, but maybe not. Kurokuma could have just been arrogant and underestimated Laris!" Shiho exclaimed as she balled her fists up. "I have to have hope in something, right now more than ever. We all need that."
"You know, hope isn't always a good thing. At times, hope can be a terrible burden... It can be a drive to hurt others. In the case of the Ultimate Knight, she followed her hope and led a crusade to save her deceased sister. She may have succeeded, but that hope caused so much destruction. She became the embodiment of a demon," a feminine voice said as a silhouette took shape behind Saishkuma.
The hooded bear quickly crawled off the podium to stand beside it. A moment later, Mizukuma appeared and waddled to the opposite side of the podium.
A new Kuma came into view. This one was frail looking, with a solid lime-green color and matching eyes that swirled hypnotically. Red bows were affixed to her ears and atop her head. She wore a back flowing dress that resembled a robe. This particular bear sat upon a floating metallic disc that hovered several feet off the ground.
"Wh-Who are you supposed to be?" Dolly stammered out nervously as she eyed the bear that hovered above the judge's podium.
"Mejikuma is Meijikuma! She used to be a mage in her former life, but she's now something else entirely. Seems like Shirokuma and Kurokuma came down with a sudden case of death. That's okay, though, cause Meijikuma is here to make a grand entrance at the climax of your adventure in Kuma Kuma Land!" the green bear said in a sickly-sweet tone.
Haruto buried his face into his hands. "Seems Tomoko was right. One way or another, this game will continue. There are no shortcuts."
"D-Does this mean we have access to the final district?" Annabelle stammered out in a pained voice.
Mejikuma bobbed back and forth a moment with a grin on her face. "There's no need to rush that, my little friend. It'll open tomorrow morning. Better you all stew in your despair for the rest of the day. This doesn't change anything about the rules, though, so don't get any funny ideas. It's more fun when you kill each other instead of me having to kill you. Right now, this room is just ripe with despair. I'm sure big sis is savoring every moment of this!"
10 Survivors Remain
*AN* Farewell my dear knight. You fulfilled your duty to the bitter end. I'd like to thank my betas for powering through this betaing phase so quickly. You all rock!
Review Section:
Natsukumo1000
Sometimes subversion is a wonderful tool if used right hehe.
BouncingFish
Woah somehow you knew it wasn't them. 500 IQ man! Seriously how did you know they were innocent ? xD
NSPunny
Hehehe good theory, but not dice my friend.
bellatrixshine
Your wish is my command Bella!
The Kobold Necromancer
Nope, just a bit of trickery going on because of darn bears and missing details :P
pokemansuperallstar
Well it wasn't technically a failure, and yet it may feel that way to some.
BirblordAlmighty
Yeah, I'd say things really came to a head in this chapter.
ShinyOshawottKing1
Sorry buddy, he was my red herring to specifically draw your attention to the most obvious choice.
Yamomo
I actually included a bunch of small hints from Laris throughout the story. Some more subtle than others.
MudkipOfDespair
Sorry no dice hehehe.
doomqwer
If it's obvious, it's rarely that straightforward :P