Champ (1) : Yep, I'm definitely going to put a poll on my profile, thanks for your advice ! ^^

Champ (2) : You found the chance time unfair? I mean, sure, in the end it comes down to who's the luckiest of the four chosen players, but they all had a chance to win an exemption, so... I'm glad that you liked the 'Mansion Nightmare' Challenge ! ^^

Champ (3) : Haha, so you saw the twist ! :p And lol about Jojora ! Sorry, I can't really say a thing about your suspicions, though. ^^

Champ (4) : Thanks ! I'm trying my best in order to erase every little mistakes I can make. However, sometimes my wording is bizarre... I admit. Nice suspicions and thank you for your reviews ! ^^ I really appreciate it. ^^

Tails-is-Pwnage : Lol TIP ! I actually laughed when I saw your review !

TIP (2) : Well, Yoshi-is-Pwnage could be your new username, should you want to change it. :p Thanks for your reviews !

TheGreatAdvenger : Haha, yeah, this story is kind of long. Take your time ! ^^

Previously, on the Mole, the players had been asked who they thought was the honestest person on the show. Mario was selected unanimously and as such, he had a special role for their next challenge. Speaking of challenge, the six remaining contestants had been brought to the fancy Perplex Express, a word-wide known train, where they would have the opportunity to gain the final exemption of Episode Five. Monty Mole explained to the players, minus Mario, that they would have to steal a jewel from the famous Holly Koopa to win the exemption or the money. He also told them that it would be Mario's job to determine who was the thief. If Mario was correct, he would claim the exemption as his and add twenty thousand coins to the pot. However, Monty Mole added that if Mario was wrong, the thief would obtain the exemption. The players, except for Birdo, who was exempted, were all driven by fear and sought to obtain the exemption. Noki, Toad, Jojora, Bootler, Birdo ; one of them had successfully stolen the emerald. Will Mario be able to uncover the identity of the thief?

First name : Birdo

Surname : Ribbon

Birthday : May 15

Job : Fashion Designer

First name : Bootler

Surname : Majordome

Birthday : September 6

Job : Butler

First name : Noki

Surname : Delphis

Birthday : August 7

Job : Air Hostess

First name : Toad

Surname : Phalloïde

Birthday : June 1

Job : Gardener

First name : Jojora

Surname : Teeheena

Birthday : December 27

Job : Sculptor

First name : Mario

Surname : Mario

Birthday : January 22

Job : Plumber

19 : A Criminal Execution

"Warning! Warning! This is not an exercise! Please remain calm and exit the train! Warning! Warning! This is not an exercise! Please remain calm and exit the train!" A voice blared out of the intercoms.

Mario : Wow, that was really frightening! I really thought there was an emergency! Thank goodness it was only part of the challenge.

The passengers were in a uproar, but did as they were told. They escaped quickly and waited, expecting bad news. A little group detached itself from the loud crowd. The leader of that group was Monty Mole.

"Well, we're two members short. Where are Birdo and Toad, might I ask?" inquired the host.

"Probably dying in the train," Jojora replied sarcastically. Mario chuckled a little while Noki shook her head strongly. "What? It's not like the train was on fire or anything."

"I asked Birdo to look for Toad, since we didn't see him anywhere," the blue shelled girl replied. Monty Mole nodded at her.

"Why didn't you go look for him yourself if you cared that much?" questioned Jojora. Noki scowled at her but did not answer.

Jojora : What if I'm harsh? At least I make sense. There was no reason for Noki to ask someone else to look for Toad if she was worried. Speaking about Toad, where was he? Probably hiding someone's emerald, I bet.

"May I ask what happened to the train?" inquired Bootler. "If it was no exercise, I suppose that something serious has happened. Am I wrong?"

"Yeah," agreed Mario. "I doubt they would sound their own alarm if nothing was wrong. Something must have happened!"

Jojora rolled her eyes. "Chill, Mario, it's not hero time."

A few minutes later, Toad exited the train. He noticed the group and made his way toward them. "Hey guys! Sorry, I was in the bathroom but the door wouldn't bulge, so I was kind of stuck." He noticed the astounded faces of the players and Monty Mole and added quickly, "I know it's lame, you don't need to stare at me like that..."

"You sure do have an history with bathrooms," chuckled Bootler, making reference to the last mission of the fourth episode. Everyone laughed with him, even Toad.

Two minutes later, a frantic Birdo appeared in their field of vision. She walked toward them, a frown on her face. "Toad, I looked for you everywhere on the train! Where were you? We were mad worried!" she reproached, unnerved.

"He was dying in the bathroom," replied Jojora, stifling a laughter, which prompted Toad to send her a death glare. Birdo was mostly confused at their exchange, thankfully, Mario came to her rescue.

"Apparently, Toad was locked in the men's bathroom."

Birdo paused for a moment and put her hand on her forehead. "Wow, I feel so dumb. I only checked the females' bathroom, no wonder I didn't find him there." Once again, laughter erupted from the group.

Bootler : I realized that Birdo and Toad were often sticking their foot in their mouth, which, if one of them was the Mole, could be used as a justification for their acts. It would be the perfect excuse, since we know it is their personality.

Noki : It's good to be able to laugh once in a while, especially in a game as stressful as this one. I kind of suspect Toad of being the thief though... His excuse wasn't- Well, he didn't convince me, that's all.

"What happened anyway?" asked the mushroom, wondering why the alarm had been sounded.

"That's what we're all wondering," replied Jojora. "I think Monty might have an answer, though." They all turned their head toward Monty Mole who coughed.

"I suppose I could explain... Although we still have time..."

"What are you mumbling to yourself?" questioned Birdo, her arms crossed.

"Fine, I'll explain!" resigned himself the host. "Mario, you have successfully completed your part of the challenge, so we'll now move on to the second part of the challenge." Mario nodded, feeling pleased with himself. "Second part which has nothing to do with what you did previously, since you were tricked into believing that helping the cooks would serve a purpose while the only use of the 'mission' was to drive you apart from the group," explained the host in one go.

They all laughed when they saw Mario's bewildered expression. "Did I help the cooks for...nothing?" he attempted.

"Yes, I'm afraid you did," smiled the host. "But fear not, as it was necessary. You see, the other five had two hours to steal an emerald from Holly Koopa. I was informed by the crew that one of them successfully stole the jewel and your job is to determine who did it." Mario narrowed his eyes and looked at the other five, one after another.

"How am I supposed to find out who did it? I mean, is this challenge all about luck or something?"

"Not really," answered Toad.

"As Toad said, victory does not rely on your luck, but rather, on your sleuthing skills. Do you have what it takes to solve a mystery?" Monty Mole questioned enigmatically.

"Oh joy, it's the Excess Express all over again," commented Mario while chuckling, remembering one of his past adventures.

"This mission, called 'Jewelry Robbery' is worth twenty thousand coins. Oh, and did I forget to mention that you can win the last exemption of this episode if you discover who's the culprit?"

"This mission seems really cool! I can win an exemption and the money!" cheered Mario excitedly.

"Well, yes. However, there is something you need to be aware of. These five players, over here, also have a shot at winning an exemption. I promised them that if they were able to steal the emerald and pull the wool over your eyes, they would be safe for tonight's execution," continued Monty Mole.

"More deceiving, huh? Well, I guess I should have expected something like that."

"You have one hour to investigate, feel free to ask whatever you want to the passengers and your fellow players, but remember that they probably won't tell you the entire truth. The one hour starts as soon as we're going back into the train. Any question?"

"No, I think I'm good. I'm ready to get started!"

Bootler : A mystery within a mystery. Oh, the irony.

"The train is ready to depart!" announced the conductor. "All aboard!"

…

Mario : From what I know, a good investigation always start with the interrogation of the victim. You first need to gather information and then connect the pieces of the mystery together thanks to logic, to get new facts or hypotheses.

Mario went to the first class car, where Holly Koopa was seated, as always. He quickly spotted her and walked to her, a smile on his face. "Hello there!" he greeted. "I am Mario, a player of the Mole. We've already met each other during Mario Parties, do you remember?"

"Why yes, I sure do! I can't forget that formidable time I had watching you and your friends perform those crazy things during your games. It was quite a sight! Oh, where are my manners, I totally forgot to greet you. Hello Mario!" she stated enthusiastically.

"We'd be happy to have you as a player, next time we host one. I'll make sure someone send you an invitation."

"Thank you, I appreciate it! However, I think you are the detective of that game that Monty Mole informed me of, aren't you? If so, please ask what you want, I am at your entire disposition," replied the rich Koopa.

"Okay, I have a few questions for you. I need you to tell me when, approximately, your jewel was stolen," told her Mario.

"I don't know, but I assume it was either just before the alarm was sounded or during the time everyone was trying to get out of the car," answered Holly.

Mario paused for a moment. "So... You don't know for sure... Mmh... Hey, wait. Why do you think the emerald was stolen during that rather short lapse of time? I mean, you don't know exactly when it was stolen, but you were still quite specific. So... Could you tell why you think it was then?"

"I can. If I recall correctly, I left my seat to go to the bathroom a few minutes before the alarm was sounded. I needed to satisfy my natural needs if you see what I mean."

Mario fell silent. "That's still highly coincidental... You leaving to the bathroom just before the alarm was sounded, I mean. Did something happen just before you left? Or did something made you go to the restroom?"

Now, it was Holly's time to be silent. Apparently, she was thinking hard. Suddenly, she frowned and spoke up. "Now that you mentioned it... I think someone was drinking a lot next to me. It was the sound of the water which made me go to the bathroom. If I remember correctly, that person filled their glass at least four or five times."

"Did you happen to catch a glimpse of that person?" inquired Mario, frowning more than ever.

"Unfortunately, no. Do you think it could be the thief?"

"To be hon- I mean, to tell you the entire truth, that's what I think. Well, I'd love to discuss more with you, but I'm timed, so I need to find out who it is, and quickly. So... Bye!" Mario excused himself.

Afterward, he proceeded to question the people who were in the same car as Holly Koopa, but most of them either did not pay attention or simply did not know anything. However, when Mario asked a particular Shy Guy, he received some information.

"I remember something," he started, looking in Mario's eyes. "There was this Boo, who asked me a way to distract Holly. I told him that, as far as I knew, only sweets were her weakness."

Mario rubbed his chin. "Was he excessively polite?"

"He seemed kind of old-fashioned," testified the Shy Guy.

"Thank you very much for your time!"

Mario : I had a lead, but not enough information to point fingers. One hour is a short time, I just hoped I could play to the best of my ability.

…

Jojora, Toad, Bootler and Noki were all located in the economy class car, waiting for Mario to finish his task. Most of them were bored since they could not do much during that time. Jojora was the first to break the ice.

"Where's Birdo? I thought she was here." Noki glanced at her.

"She said that she was going to help Mario, or something along those lines," explained the inhabitant of Isle Delfino.

"I guess we can safely assume that we'll lose the mission then," snickered the blue fairy.

Toad shook his head. "I don't get why you're so negative. Plus, what did Birdo do to you? I mean, you're so bitter when you talk about her... It's strange."

Jojora sighed. "It's not about what she did to me, but what she did to the pot that makes me mad. And don't you dare defend her. She's the one who made us lose the most money," pointed out Jojora.

"Still, it's only a game," retorted Toad. "Also, I like her ten times better as the Mole than you as a player, assuming you are a player and her the Mole." Jojora scoffed.

"It's only a game? I doubt you'd say that in front of the final quiz, when you are a few questions away from winning that whole game, as well as the money which comes with victory. Do I need to remind you that more than one hundred coins is at stake?"

"Well, it won't make a difference. At least to me. I've come here for the experience," told her Toad. Bootler looked up from his book.

"I came here because Milady forced me to do so. She said, and I am quoting her, "It's not sane for you to always worry about me. I thought you needed to enjoy yourself for once, so I signed you up for the Mole. And you will compete in it, whether you like it or not. That is an order."." When he finished, the other three started to laugh and Bootler blushed. "Well, how did you end up on that show?"

"You know that I'm a sculptor, right?" Jojora groaned a little. "It's a fantastic job, really. However, because I was always trying to perfect my art, I didn't enjoy my life. I'm a perfectionist and I just can't accept something okay. My sculptures need to be great."

Toad smiled a little. "I think I understand what you mean. You always want to be the best in whatever thing you're doing."

Jojora nodded. "Exactly. I can't help it, it's just who I am. Anyway, because of that, I quickly stopped going out and everything, because I was obsessed with my art. It was Chucklissa who first found out about that," she put a hand on her chin, recalling the moment. "Anyway, she thought that I needed a break and tried to keep me away from my job. From what I remember, she has always been a fan of that show, so when she found out that they were doing a third season, she immediately requested an audience with prince Peasley, a competitor of the second season. She asked him to put in a good word about my application into the show to Monty Mole. Prince Peasley has very good connections, and well, since he was a previous player, Monty Mole agreed to let me in the show."

"Wow... Well, that was interesting, I think I'll jot that down on my journal!" Toad exclaimed, quickly writing how Bootler and Jojora made it on the show.

Toad : It's always good to write down whatever new information you learn during the game. During the final quiz, they can ask you questions unrelated to the game. Like, in the first season, they asked if the Mole was an author. Nobody had ever mentioned that before. If it wasn't for the fact that someone found a clue on which was written 'Book', nobody would have scored a point.

"How did you come on this show, Toad?" inquired Bootler who had stopped reading.

Toad rubbed the back of his head and replied. "Well, there was a casting in Toadtown. I know that Mario was selected as soon as he presented himself to the producers, since he's really famous. I think that I wasn't supposed to be on the show... That's speculation but... Well, I was afraid not to be on it, so I asked both Mario and princess Peach to convince the producers to let me in."

Bootler chuckled a little. "And they say I am a worrywart." Toad smiled at him.

"It's just that... Well, people know who I am since I'm part of the Mario crew, right? But compared to Mario, Peach, Bowser or Luigi, I am nothing," he sighed sadly. "Plus, the producers told me that they had already accepted someone which profile was almost the same as mine, that's why I wasn't feeling confident about my chances."

Now, it was Noki's turn to be surprised. "Really? I don't think you have the same profile as anyone else on this show. To me, everyone is different. But then again, the producers don't play the game, so maybe they look for diverse personalities."

Jojora : It was weird that everyone opened up like that and told the others how they managed to get on the show. I mean, at this stage of the game, we don't really talk about that kind of stuff anymore, it's more about strategy, suspicions and whatnot.

"As for myself, I was pretty lucky if I do say so myself. I was working on a plane that day, and it was delayed because of meteorological disturbances. Anyway, when we arrived at Isle Delfino, we were late. I also had to attend to certain things so I couldn't leave the plane immediately. When I left the airport, I realized that I had just missed the last boat going to Delfino Plaza, where I live," told Noki, replaying the event in her head. "Anyway, I was very annoyed at that time and well, my day had been stressful, so I began to cry. Someone heard me and they walked to me. It just so happened that this person was a representative of the Mole. He had also missed the boat and was also very mad, because he hadn't found anyone interesting for his show," she paused a little. "It's funny when you think about it. We were so bored that I asked him about his show and well, the concept interested me, so I told him that it seemed cool. He was quiet for a moment, and then he asked me about myself, so I told me who I was, what I was doing for a living and all of those things. After a while, he asked me whether I wanted to partake in the Mole or not. I was reluctant at first, because I have a job, but he managed to convince me, using very good arguments. And here I am today, I really owe him a lot."

During that time, the others had listened intently to her tale, incredulous. They could not believe how lucky Noki was. Some of them, remarked something, and they thought they would share it with us through a confessional.

Bootler : From what I learned, we all managed to have a place on the show thanks to our connection. Prince Peasley for Jojora, princess Bow for myself, Mario for Mario, princess Peach and Mario for Toad and I'm not sure about the others, but I can safely assume that Kooper obtained a place on the show thanks to his job and Flurrie because of her fame. Noki was the only one who managed to get on the show thanks to her personality which apparently interested the producers. When you know that it is the producers who choose who the Mole will be, it only makes me more wary of Noki.

Noki : When I learned that Toad wasn't supposed to be on the show, my suspicions of him decreased a lot. He still could be the Mole, but I highly doubt it. Especially since he told us that the producers weren't that interested in him. I know he could be lying but I really doubt it, as Mario could confirm us whether it is a lie or not.

…

Mario was seating at a table, interrogating an old acquaintance of his : Waitress. He had already seen her a few times during his adventures at Rogueport and although he was glad to see that she was doing great, he could not help but being anxious. She was known to be very forgetful, questioning her would not be a piece of cake.

"Hey Mario!" came Birdo's voice as the plumber tried not to scream because of Waitress' behavior. "I decided to help you with your investigation. I have nothing else to do anyway."

Mario got up from his chair, happy to see that someone had come to his rescue. However, he soon fell silent and gauged Birdo, frowning. "How am I supposed to know that you're not the one who stole Holly's emerald?"

Birdo rolled her eyes and showed him the exemption that she had previously won. "Now, tell me why I would need two of these things?" Mario nodded to her understandingly.

"Alright, I suppose I can trust you to an extent."

"Cool!" chirped Birdo. "Now, I have some useful information for you." She dug in her pocket and pull out a sheet of paper. "You must remember that this train is peculiar, but in case you forgot about it, I have something to refresh your mind." She gave him the copy of the schedule Thriff.T had previously given to her.

Mario dismissed it and asked Birdo what she meant, thinking it would be faster. "Or you could explain to me what is peculiar." Birdo looked shocked.

Birdo : Mario was the one who suggested we had a party on a replica of that train in the first place. The fact that he forgot about this train's particularity makes me think he could have used that to his advantage and lost the challenge for us.

"You mean you don't remember that this train's cars switch positions once in a while? Apparently, every thirty minutes, to be exact." Mario was hit with realization as he nodded to her.

"I totally forgot about that!" he exclaimed. "Shoot! I thought I could find out who stole the jewel by pinpointing everyone's position at the time of the theft..." Birdo smiled apologetically.

"I remember the position of the cars. Right before the crime, the cars were in that order : locomotive, kitchen, restaurant, economy class car, shopping area, first class car. And now it is locomotive, kitchen, first class car, shopping area, restaurant and economy class car."

Mario : I found it strange how Birdo knew that much when she wasn't even interested in getting an exemption in the first place.

"Okay," Mario trailed, a bit dubious. "Can I ask you where you were at the time of the theft?"

"I was in the economy class car, with Noki, as far as I remember." Mario raised an eyebrow as well as an objection.

"You went out of the shopping area went the sirens were sounded," he pointed out. Birdo crossed her arms.

"So? You only asked where I was when the jewel was stolen. I went to the shopping car just before the cars were switched."

"You will understand that I'm cautious. You could have done it, after all." Birdo shook her head.

"It's impossible Mario. One, I already have an exemption. Two, at the end of the challenge, Monty Mole will announce who got the exemption. If I had stolen it, I would have had two of them, and if I was the Mole, I would have attracted to much attention to myself. As an actual player, I wouldn't have any motive to make us lose money."

"Alright, I understand your logic. Then, I can safely assume that Noki was where you claim she was."

"Yeah. Jojora was here to, so she can confirm that Noki was here. I wouldn't be able to lie about that even if I wanted to. So, hmmm... Any lead?" she questioned, as Mario wrote down something on his journal.

"I principally suspect Bootler and Toad. I don't know about Jojora yet, and you and Noki seem to be in the clear," Mario stated. "I don't know what I should do, seriously. Do I start interrogating the other four or do I simply ask more questions to the people around?"

Birdo shrugged. "It's up for you to decide. You have half a hour left though. Maybe you should interrogate the others and if you still have time after that, look for more clues," she offered.

Birdo : At that point, I hoped that we'd be successful. There wasn't much I could do.

…

Mario and Birdo entered the economy class car, after the cars had been switching place once again. Mario glanced at the other four contestants, as if he was reading them. He walked to them and asked Jojora to come with him, because he needed to discuss with her. The others looked at them in anticipation.

Toad : It was obvious that Mario was here to question us. We were all on edge because we knew that one of us had stolen the emerald, but we didn't know who. And we didn't want to be accused falsely either.

Jojora and Mario went at the other side of the car, so the others would not be able to hear what Mario would ask her.

"Jojora," he whispered. "I need you to tell me where you were just a few minutes before the alarm rang."

"To answer your question, I was in the economy class car, trying to find a way to steal Holly's jewel."

"Was there anyone else with you back then?"

"If I remember correctly, Noki was here," she thought aloud.

"So that means that Birdo was telling the truth!" Mario exclaimed giddily. Jojora raised an eyebrow.

"What did she tell you? I wouldn't trust her if I were you."

"She told me that you and Noki were in the economy class car, so she must have been there too! And she also helped me with discovering the position of the cars before and after the switch," declared the hero in red.

"Mmmh... Although I did see Noki, I don't remember having seen Birdo. You should be careful, Mario. She isn't as dumb as she lets it seem. She could play you."

"She also gave good arguments as to why it would be dumb for her to steal the exemption," counter-attacked Mario. Jojora raised her voice.

"I didn't say that she did it. I'm just pointing out...facts."

"Anything else you'd like to add?"

"As a matter of fact, I do. I think that Noki didn't it. Actually, she couldn't do it as she was with me in the economy class car. However... Bootler was questioning plenty of people like mad and tried to steal her jewel. Also, it seemed to me that Toad was really trying hard to get that exemption," she finished.

Mario : We're talking about an exemption right now, so I'm not sure I can trust Jojora, even if she is my coalition partner. Overall, she didn't seem to lie, but I was suspicious of her as she clearly accused Birdo of lying.

"Please bring Noki here."

Like the other players, Noki was nervous. However, Mario reassured her.

"Relax Noki. I know that you didn't steal the emerald. I will only ask you a few questions. Just before the alarm was sounded, were Birdo and Jojora in the same car as you?"

"Yes, they were," she muttered, still a bit apprehensive about the whole challenge. Mario thanked her.

"That was all I wanted to ask you. Can you bring Bootler over here, please?" Noki nodded and left hastily.

Mario : Two players confirmed that she couldn't have done it, plus, she was one car away from the scene of the crime. I think that speaks for itself.

Bootler floated toward Mario, his face showing no sign of nervousness. The old Boo was perfectly calm, so calm that Mario considered letting him go without asking him any question for a brief instant.

"Please sit down, Bootler," Mario demanded politely. He waited for the ghost to be comfortably seated and asked his first question. "Bootler, where were you a few minutes before the alarm went off?"

Bootler coughed one time and replied. "I was located in the shopping area, which was, at the time, situated next to the first class car." The plumber was immediately cautious of the butler, something seemed off with him.

"So you admit that you were close to the scene of the crime. Do you want to go to the restroom?" Bootler responded by giving him a stunned look.

"Why no. I may be old, but I am not yet incontinent. I never thought you were this rude!" The old Boo seemed appalled.

Mario quickly apologized. "I'm sorry Bootler, that wasn't what I meant. I didn't imply anything, it was a question, nothing else."

"No, it is okay. You must have had a reason to ask me that question, even though I do wonder what that reason is," forgave Bootler. Mario smiled.

"I'm really sorry for that misunderstanding. That aside, you're still a suspect. I've asked people around, and they said that you had talked with them, questioning them about Holly Koopa. One of them even said that you were looking for her weakness, which is sweets."

Bootler nodded. "It is true. Those people did not lie. I had a plan, and I was going to put it into action, however, someone was faster than me so I was not able to steal the emerald, unfortunately."

Mario pondered for a moment. "Well then, I assume that you never left the shopping area, so you might be able to help me."

"Yes, I never left that car. What is it?"

"Did you see Birdo coming into the car one or two minutes before the alarm was sounded?" Mario besought cleverly.

"No, I did not see her."

"Thank you Bootler, please call Toad."

Mario : Was I suspicious of Bootler? Heck yes! He claimed that Birdo never went to the shopping area, but she did. She confirmed that Noki and Jojora were in the economy class car and if she had never gone to the shopping area, I don't see why she would say that she went there. It's a good thing that I know how to interrogate people.

The mushroom boy went toward Mario, a grin on his face. Mario returned the smile and prompted him to sit down.

"Hey Toad! I was wondering if you could tell me where you were during the time of the theft."

Toad's answer was immediate. "I was in the bathroom the whole time."

"Wait, you spent more than twenty minutes in the bathroom?"

"Well... When I washed my hands, I made quite a mess and my clothes were wet. I thought that people would think that I, err... I think that you see what I mean, right? Anyway, since I thought they would think that, I stayed in the bathroom to dry my clothes," Toad summed up.

"Did you see anyone when you were there?"

"Thank goodness I didn't! They would have probably thought that I was crazy," shuddered the gardener.

"I wondered if you could tell me where the bathroom is?"

Toad thought about if. "Well, it depends if it's urgent or not. If it is, you should go to the shopping area, that's where I was. If you can wait a little, you can go to the restaurant car. In all, there are two bathrooms."

Mario nodded slowly. "I see... Do you have anything else to say?"

"I didn't steal the emerald."

"Well, if that's all, you're free to go."

Mario : It would be a tough choice, but in the end, I knew that I would choose the most logical answer.

…

A few minutes later, the players and Monty Mole were together in the economy class car. A few nosy people were watching the group with interest, wondering what was going on. The host took a deep breath and addressed the players. "So, what did you think of that mission?"

"It was really hard," started Bootler. "It also seemed impossible to steal the emerald without being seen, however, it looks like someone managed to achieve that goal, somehow."

Noki agreed. "Yes, I really hope that Mario will make the right choice so we will be successful."

"It isn't like you're putting all the pressure on his shoulders," joked Toad, lightening the mood. Monty Mole also chuckled.

"You knew that this game would be harder as the time goes, when you signed up, though. And let me tell you that it will only get worse in the future. I'm sure that you will have no problem with that, you signed up for an adventure after all, right?" the host grinned as he pronounced those words. The six players looked at him and nodded, feeling confident about the next part of their adventure.

"Well then, Mario must now reveal to us the name of the players who stole Holly Koopa's emerald," the host started. "Mario, you can develop if you want to. The others, remain silent, please. You can't say a single word, otherwise you will be penalized, starting from now."

"Can I go now?" Mario inquired. Monty Mole gave him a positive response, so Mario explained his train of thought. "I'll start by explaining how the culprit managed to steal Holly Koopa's jewel. The thief made her go to the bathroom. How? Well, they took a glass and poured water into it. The noise made by the water distracted Holly."

"Ingenious!" noted Bootler. "Oh my bad!"

"Minus one thousand coins," stated Monty Mole.

Birdo : Oh, come on! You just had to do that Bootler, right?

Toad : Bootler's outburst was stupid. Monty Mole specifically told us that we couldn't talk during Mario's exposure. I think he did that to make himself look more suspicious, but I'm not sure. Am I in a coalition with the Mole?

Bootler : It was spontaneous. I never thought Monty Mole would deduct one thousand coins from our pot! Had I known that fact, I would have kept my mouth shut.

Mario put his hand on his forehead and resumed his explanation. "Anyway, I quickly found out that Noki, Jojora and Birdo were all innocent as they all, more or less, recalled having seen one or two of the others in the economy class car. Which means that the thief is either you Bootler, or you, Toad." Toad started to open his mouth but quickly remembered the rule and decided not to say anything.

"Bootler, you claimed that you never managed to put your plan into action, however, a kind Shy Guy managed to tell me that you asked him that her weakness was sweets long before the deed was done. Still to me, you were not the true culprit. Maybe you only omitted something when I questioned you. Which means that I think that Toad is the guilty party in this case. Why? Well, I'll ask you one question. Why did Toad take so much time in the bathroom? My guess is that after he stole the jewel, he quickly went to the bathroom to create himself an alibi. However, he had drunk too much water and needed to do his thing, you know what I mean?" Mario took a deep breath. "I'm still a bit skeptic as to why on earth Bootler didn't tell me that he saw Toad in the economy class car, but whatever. My choice is Toad. I valid it," he addressed Monty Mole.

Monty Mole looked solemn as he went to Toad. "Very well then. Toad, tell us where you hid Holly Koopa's emerald."

"I can talk?"

"Of course you can, Mario is done with his explanation and chose you."

"Well, he chose the wrong person," Toad sighed sadly.

A person stepped up. "I did it. Sorry Mario, looks like you've been played..."

"Yes," Noki voiced, "You have never considered than more than one person could lie. You even pointed out the flaws in your logic, but you were so sure of yourself that you chose to ignore them. It's a shame, truly, but it can't be helped."

"Wait, why would more than one person lie to me?" Mario asked, dumbfounded. Jojora scoffed.

"Well, what a surprise! See, I told you that you shouldn't have trust her. Now we pay the price of your naivete."

"Wait a second. If Birdo did it, then... That means that Noki also lied...?" Mario was confused at the whole situation. "And... Why would Birdo try to make us lose money?"

Jojora tapped her feet impatiently on the floor. "Well, isn't that obvious. Birdo doesn't need another exemption, but who else needs it?" Noki tried to hide her smile. Jojora saw that and immediately growled. "It was your plan, wasn't it?"

Monty Mole interrupted the discussion instantly, sensing that drama was coming at them at an alarming speed. "Birdo, would you be so kind as to give me the emerald you stole from Holly, please? I'll give you your second exemption as soon as I recover the jewel." Birdo acquiesced and took out the emerald from her seat.

"I hid it there while I was 'looking for' Toad," she grinned at the host, who, in exchange, gave her a green card. The pink dinosaur gave the green card to Noki who thanked her in response.

"Needless to say, this mission was a failure for everyone but Noki and presumably Birdo. Bootler's speaking actually reduces your team pot by one thousand coins," the host finished apologetically.

Challenge's Results :

Money Won : 0 – 1 000 = -1 000

Team Pot : 133 000 coins

"You will face your fifth execution tonight. This train will come back to where we depart in approximately thirty minutes, until then, I'll leave you alone." He was mostly ignored by the players who were scribbling on their journals like crazy.

Jojora : Everyone but me was suspicious during the challenge. Of course, everyone wanted that exemption, but come on! My coalition partner decided that my advice wasn't really important which ultimately made us lose. Noki and Birdo both lied and stole the emerald, so they made us lose too! Bootler didn't confirm that Toad was in the restroom, which could have changed the outcome of the challenge and he additionally made us lose one thousand coins because he couldn't keep his mouth shut! And Toad? Well, he didn't do much to convince Mario that he wasn't the thief. What was he doing there anyway? I'm steaming mad right now! I have one chance out of four to make it to the next round, or even one out of three if the Mole isn't exempted! This challenge was an utter failure!

Bootler : To say that I am disappointed is an understatement. It is partially my fault, I was responsible for the loss of one thousand coins. However, I will note that Mario paid no heed to our claims. Jojora and I specifically told him that Birdo was not where she said she was. I cannot take blame for that. I must say, however, that I underestimated Noki. I will definitely keep an eye on her from now on.

Toad : Whoop-dee-freaking-doo! We lost! Again! Because of? Birdo! Again! I'm really angry right now, since we never had a chance to win an exemption in the first place. They tricked us! I can't believe Noki would do that! Well, actually, I can, since I've been suspecting her for quite a few episodes right now, but still...

Mario : Wow... I can't believe I've been fooled by them... Where did Noki's team spirit go? Needless to say, I'm pretty disappointed in her. She may not be my prime suspect, but I know better than totally dismiss what she did. I'm also very scared. If I'm executed tonight, I'll hate myself forever since I could have taken the exemption when we were at King Boo's mansion. Even though I still feel like I made the right choice when I chose the money.

Noki : Thanks to Birdo, I managed to get that exemption. I felt really bad afterward, though, because I knew that the others wouldn't be so willing to trust me in the future... But if I hadn't taken the exemption, one of them would have! I know that all they wanted to do was take the exemption. They don't seem to understand that... Maybe they are not mad but jealous?

Birdo : I only did what Noki wanted me to do and if she asked me again, I'd still do it. She's my best friend on the show as well as a valuable ally. I can understand that the others are mad at us, but it's nothing a little bit of time won't heal. I'm feeling confident for the next episode.

…

Soon enough, the players stepped out of the train and went back the way they came, to Pipetown. They returned to their hotel with mixed feelings in mind. Some of them were extremely worried about that night's quiz, since they felt like they answered questions about the wrong players during the first one.

The three alliances chose to barricade themselves in their bedrooms, reflecting over the recent events. Only one alliance was feeling great, because both of its members knew that they were safe for another episode.

"It feels great to know that we're safe for another round!" cheered Birdo excitedly.

Noki smiled. "Yes, but each time someone gets executed, it makes me feel bad... I don't know why, I guess I just become attached to the players... Each time one of them face a red screen, I feel like I've taken their spots... Especially when Flurrie went home," she sighed. Birdo shrugged.

"Not like it was your fault for Flurrie. She decided to leave of her own accord," remembered Birdo. "Plus you can't just change how the game goes. In the end, we'll only be three. The Mole, the winner and the runner-up."

"Yes," Noki understood entirely. "I just can't help but feel like it's my fault, somehow. You know what I mean, right?"

"Of course. We can only hope that we're on the right track and that we'll make it to the finale, with the Mole," wished Birdo.

In Mario's and Jojora's room, the conversation was not as calm. Jojora was blaming Mario for their previous failure and told him that, as members of a coalition, they should at least be able to trust each other to an extent.

"Look, Jojora," Mario tried, "You're not particularly innocent yourself, and I'm one hundred percent sure that you were also going for the exemption, so I wasn't sure that I could trust you. Additionally, you hold some kind of grudge against Birdo. I just thought you blamed her because you didn't like her!"

Jojora gritted her teeth. "Okay, supposing that I'm not trustworthy, why in hell did you ignore Bootler? We were both telling you that Birdo wasn't where she said she was! You only listened to her because she's your friend! Or maybe you listened to Noki because she looks harmless. But whatever. The problem is that if you can't trust me, I can't trust you either and-"

Mario cut in. "Actually, I don't find them really innocent. I'm very suspicious of them. There's only one person that I trust and it's you." He took a deep breath. "Please, listen to me for a moment. If you had been in my shoes, would you have trusted the person who had no reason to steal an exemption or the persons who needed one?" Jojora rubbed her temples for a while, and glared at Mario once she was finished.

"Fine, I understand what you mean. But don't try to ignore what I say the next time or our coalition is over."

In Toad's and Bootler's room, the two coalition partners exchanged information to be prepared for the quiz. They were also trying to find out the meaning behind the clue they had found in Jojora's journal.

"I really hope that we won't be eliminated tonight!" Toad wished intently. Bootler agreed.

"Now that we have gone this far into the game, it would be truly devastating for any of us to be executed. I plan on making it to the next round, but I could very well meet my own demise," reflected the old Boo. "Let us take a look at the clue that we obtained thanks to Pauline."

"The line... 'Looks can be deceiving'... Do you think that it means that the Mole is innocent looking?" inquired Toad, still confused by the strange clue.

"I do not know, unfortunately. You see, this clue is very confusing. What does mean the line 'The worst traitor you have ever seen'? Does it mean that the Mole is doing a pitiful job, or that they are not subtle at all? It could even mean the total opposite of the hypotheses I just stated," Bootler scratched his chin. "I can safely assume that tomorrow will not be the day we find the message conveyed by this clue."

…

Later on, the players were reunited around the dinner table, eating and trying to have a normal conversation for once, when Monty Mole suddenly cleared his throat. That quickly silenced the players, who turned their head toward the host.

"I'm surprised that nobody saw the message left by the Mole..."

Jojora immediately focused. "Which message? I didn't see any message." Toad looked around the table and noticed a crumpled piece of paper. He reached for it and unfolded it.

"I think I got it! So, let's see," he hesitated for a moment, but everyone looked at him impatiently, urging him to start, so the player cleared his throat and spoke loudly. "'Hello, it's the Mole here! I've had a wonderful time seeing you struggle during this episode. Really, that was fun! But, you know, sometimes I'm wondering. Maybe it's really hard to be a genuine player. So yeah, I decided to leave you the key to this whole mystery, it will help you in the future. I don't know exactly when, but I'm sure it will help. Here you go!' and then there are numbers. 'Two, One, Four, Two, Two, Five, Five, Three, Six, Five,'" recited the mushroom.

"May I see it?" questioned Bootler politely. Toad nodded and gave him the clue he had found. "Well, there are numbers at the end of the clue, indeed. I do not know what they mean, but they could be relevant, somehow." He passed the note to Jojora.

"Meh, I doubt it," she declared while scrutinizing the clue. She then gave the note to Mario. He watched it without saying anything and passed it to Noki.

"Thanks. Maybe the clue is somewhere in the text?"

Finally, it was Birdo's turn to see the clue. "Well, not helping that much." She gave it to Monty Mole, who put it inside his pocket.

"Tonight, you will take the second part of your fifth questionnaire. I wish you luck, for you will need it," Monty Mole announced loudly.

Soon, Mario got up from his seat and followed Monty Mole in a secluded room, where he would take the test.

…

1. What is the Mole's gender?

-Female

-Male

Mario : I've changed suspects throughout the entire episode, and now that comes the time to choose, I'm not sure I made the right decision.

2. During the mission 'Exemption Roulette', was the Mole eligible to win an exemption?

-No

-Yes

3. During the mission 'Mansion Nightmare', when did the Mole get eliminated?

-The Mole never got eliminated

-First

-Second

-Third

Birdo : Jojora failed really early during that challenge, I thought it could have been sabotage. On the other hand, Mario was pretty suspicious himself. Especially since he was the one who led us to victory but also led us to failure in the next challenge.

4. During this episode, did the Mole win an exemption?

-Yes

-No

Toad : We're all very scared. Tonight, anybody but Birdo and Noki could go home. I don't even remember what I chose during the first quiz so if anything, it will come down to luck. I have to say, though, that Birdo, Noki and Mario were all very suspicious during this episode.

5. During the mission 'Jewelry Robbery', was the Mole selected as the honestest player?

-Yes

-No

6. During the mission 'Jewelry Robbery', what did the Mole say when asked how they did to get accepted into this game?

-The Mole was not present at the time

-They said they met a producer when stuck in Delfino Airport.

-They said they asked Mario Mario and Princess Peach Toadstool to put in a good word to the producers for their application

-They said Chucklissa had signed them up and asked Prince Peasley to put in a good word to the producers for their application

-They said Lady Bow had signed them up and forced them to compete in the show

Jojora : It strikes me as odd that we're asked such a question, because it was Bootler who first brought up this conversation. Just as he makes us speak about that, a question concerning that topic is created. It surely isn't a coincidence to me.

7. During the mission 'Jewelry Robbery', when was the Mole interrogated by the honestest player?

-The Mole was the honestest player

-First

-Second

-Third

-Fourth

-Fifth

8. During the mission 'Jewelry Robbery', was the Mole accused wrongly of the theft by the honestest player?

-The Mole was the honestest player

-Yes

-No

Noki : Maybe Toad said the truth about being in the bathroom for the entire time, but I can't help but find that suspicious, as it was that fact that got him convicted, in the end.

9. What is the job of the Mole?

-Fashion Designer

-Air Hostess

-Gardener

-Plumber

-Sculptor

-Butler

Bootler : No matter who will go home tonight, an alliance will crumble. Whoever goes home will be missed. At that point, we are like a family. A dysfunctional one, but a family.

10. Who is the Mole?

-Mario

-Toad

-Jojora

-Birdo

-Bootler

-Noki

…

That night, the players could not help but look up at the starry sky, thousand of thoughts racing through their minds. One of them simply enjoyed the sight, they were the Mole, and knew that they were guaranteed a spot in the final. They walked past an array of bags and sat down on one of the six chairs disposed on the outside of the hotel. It was a cold night and the formal clothes of the players did not stop the wind from freezing them. Looking as solemn as ever, Monty Mole started talking.

"Tonight, you will face your fifth execution, for real this time. You should know the rules by now, but since it's a formality, I will remind you how this works. One by one, I will enter your names in my computer, and you will have to walk to the screen that is over here. If a green screen appears, you're safe. However, if a red screen appears, you are executed from the game and must leave immediately," he paused to glance at two particular players. "Tonight, Birdo and Noki are exempted and cannot be eliminated. I'll start the ceremony with them."

"Birdo," called the host. Birdo stood up from her chair and walked rapidly to the screen, putting her exemption card in the right slot and waiting for a green screen to appear.

B-I-R-D-O

…

…

…

…

…

GREEN

Birdo nodded and flashed a grin at Noki, who prepared herself.

"Noki."

Noki mimicked Birdo and waited patiently, knowing full well that she was advancing to the next round.

N-O-K-I

…

…

…

…

…

GREEN

As she went back to her chair, she sent the other players an encouraging smile.

"Mario!" exclaimed Monty Mole loudly.

The plumber nodded and walked slowly to the screen. He hoped he would see a green light.

M-A-R-I-O

…

…

…

…

…

RED

It was Mario's time to leave the game. The hero sighed deeply and took his bag, and, before he followed the host, he turned to the other players. "I had a fun time with you all! Good luck, Mole! And may the best player win!" he grinned.

The others nodded and mouthed some goodbyes. Mario exited with his bag on his shoulders, leaving many players disappointed.

Jojora sighed. "Mario was really a great person. He was always trying his best during challenges, he was always motivating the team, and I guess he was also the only one who could reason me. It sucks. It's the second time that someone I really like leaves the game. I wish I hadn't been so bad to him today," she regretted truthfully.

Noki was crying. "He would still be here if I hadn't been so selfish! I can't believe I was the reason why he left the game!"

Birdo tried to reason her, to no avail. "Mario was a white knight in this game. He was always putting the team before him. I think he was a little too kind for his own good, though. He will be missed."

Toad sniffled a little. "I'm just glad he was enjoying himself out here. I wish he would still be here instead of me, because I knew how much this game meant to him."

"Mario was our leader. Whenever something was wrong, we relied on him. Unfortunately, tonight was his time to go. There was no way to prevent it, it was destiny, I believe. I will miss his presence as well as the influence that he had on the group," Bootler claimed. The players realized that what Bootler had said was right : Mario always motivated everyone and was helping them whenever he could.

…

Mario and Monty Mole were waiting for the plumber's taxi, outside of the hotel. Mario gripped his bag tightly with his left hand and his journal could be seen in his pocket. Monty Mole smiled apologetically at him.

"Well Mario, I'm sorry it was your time to go."

Mario chuckled lightly. "Don't be. It was my fault, after all. None of this would be happening if I had found out who the Mole was. Although I must say that your twist might have prevented me from going further into the game."

Monty Mole laughed. "Such is the nature of the game! Tell me, Mario," he started, seeing as a taxi was approaching. "What will you remember about the game?"

Mario grinned from ear to ear. "It's hard to say. Compared to this game, my life is dull and boring! I guess I'll miss the excitement. Whenever we had a new challenge, we were all dying to partake in it. Trying to find out what the clue meant with Jojora was fun too! Basically, the whole game is wonderful," he summed up.

"I might as well ask you what was your favorite moment of the game," Monty Mole chuckled.

Mario nodded. "It feels pretty good when you're the hero, I must say. I particularly liked the missions which seemed impossible but that we won in the end. Like, the 'Mansion Nightmare' one or the one which was named 'Floral Composition'. I just showed that, together, we could achieve great things," he recalled, looking one more time at the hotel.

Soon, the taxi pulled in and Mario shook Monty Mole's hand and went inside, feeling glad that he was able to partake in such a great adventure. Monty Mole watched the car until it disappeared from his view and turned to face the camera.

"Tonight, it was the famous hero of the Mushroom Kingdom who went home. From now on, only five remain. Five? No. Four players and a mysterious saboteur remain, a traitor that is still at large. Who shall emerge victorious and discover who that traitor is? Only time will tell..."

I think it was the longest chapter I've written so far. ^^

Okay, so, as Champ suggested, I'm going to put a poll on my profile, asking you who you want to see winning this game. As always, I will even put the names of the fallen players so nobody gets spoiled (you never know). I would really appreciate it if you voted on that poll. ^^

That's it, I guess. Episode 5 is finally over! ^^