CLUE 12: 'How Dunnit?'

POV: Suzune

After classes ended, we had agreed to meet at the girls' dormitory to discuss Ayanokoji's disappearance in more detail. Our aim was to collect all ideas and theories before beginning a thorough investigation. Honestly, I had no illusions about it: probably only me, Ichinose, and maybe a bit of Hirata would engage in constructive thinking. Therefore, the discussions would be largely limited to the two and a half of us.

It had been decided to gather in my room, apparently because it was better equipped for such a meeting, as I only had the bare essentials. I was slightly annoyed that everyone had decided to meet in my room without my consent, but I let it slide this time... After all, we likely had more urgent matters to address.

We all sat in a circle in the room. I was on my bed, legs and arms crossed, with Ichinose next to me. Karuizawa was sitting on a chair to my left, while Hirata and Kushida were seated on the floor, facing us. Everyone wore a serious expression. It's pathetic to think that it takes a disappearance case for everyone to behave seriously!

... ... ... ... ...

Finally, after a long and tumultuous day, we were all available and ready to seriously and deeply discuss Ayanokoji's disappearance, exploring all our theories and possibilities, no matter how absurd they might seem. It was crucial to exploit all possible leads to unravel the truth from the falsehood.

To solve this case, we needed to join forces, even though the idea of relying on people like Karuizawa or Kushida displeased me. But we had no choice...

These reflections made me sigh. It's ironic to think that it's thanks to Ayanokoji that I've evolved in this way. Without him, I probably wouldn't have considered collaborating with others, preferring to act alone. Tsss, even in his absence, I must admit, albeit annoyingly, that you are useful, Ayanokoji.

Suzune: We can finally start developing our theories and exploiting all our ideas. We'll have to examine all possible leads... I hope you're ready and that you won't slow us down more than necessary. I looked at them with a stern gaze. Try at least to stay focused and think before you speak.

Kei: Hey, stop acting superior all the time! Seriously, do you have to be a bitch every time? Can't you hold back, miss perfect? She gave me a disdainful look, and I just responded with a stern gaze.

Hirata: Come on, no need to bicker, Horikita, Kei. He laughed slightly, looking a bit embarrassed. We all need to work together now, so let's try to get along, okay?

Kei: Hey, but it's her who --... She suddenly stopped, clicking her tongue, and gave me one last scornful look before continuing. Fine, okay... I'm not going to waste my time with her anyway, we have more important things to do! I'm ready to go, even though I have no idea where to start or even what to think.

Ichinose: Perfect, if everyone's ready, we can start! She gave one of her usual gentle smiles. As Horikita said, we'll have to explore all possible leads. It might be long and intense... But together, we can do it, right?

Kushida: Absolutely! If we all work together, there's no reason we can't do it, right? With five brains at work, we should definitely find a solution!

Hirata: Yes, I agree. I'm convinced that we'll find Kyotaka very soon, and in perfect shape!

Their optimism seemed exaggerated to me. We still knew nothing concrete about this case and were getting lost in speculation. It was a waste of time. We should focus only on the facts for now.

It was with this mindset that I spoke up, in a serious voice. It was time to start things seriously, to focus on the facts and put aside unfounded hypotheses.

Suzune: Okay, so let's start from the beginning... We'll focus on the day of Ayanokoji's disappearance, our memories of that day are still vivid since we have no memory of the week that followed that event. After saying that, I took on a more thoughtful expression, leaning into the subject. Let's gather all the elements... To start with, everything that happened yesterday, from morning to evening, and up to the last person who saw Ayanokoji.

Everyone was attentive to my words and nodded firmly in agreement. "Well, it seems they're not as stupid as that..." I thought. The first crucial step was to precisely reconstruct the events of the day and determine the time frame during which Ayanokoji could have disappeared. It was time to get serious.

Suzune: So, we're going to skip right to the end of the school day, since nothing particularly notable happened before that... To begin, at the end of the day, at twilight, there was the incident with Ryuen and his cronies: Albert, Ishizaki, and that pest Ibuki. After revisiting the scene in detail, my expression became more serious. They came to our class looking for the one they call "X," the leader operating in the shadows...

At that moment, I was convinced that the situation could only get worse. Knowing Ryuen, he certainly hadn't come just to say hello or discuss the weather. The only logical explanation for his direct visit, accompanied by his cronies, to class D, had to be linked to something more sinister.

Kushida was the first to comment on the situation, always with her fake angelic personality, feigning innocence. I really wondered what would happen when her true nature was finally revealed to everyone, because sooner or later, it had to happen.

Kushida: Really? That's what happened at that time? I had already left, so I didn't see it... But it must have been really scary!

Hirata then took over the narrative. Since he was also in class and hadn't left at that time, he had a direct perspective on the events that had unfolded.

He seemed deep in thought, probably recalling what he was doing at that exact moment and reliving the details of the day. His seriousness and attention to detail were evident, and it was clear that he was trying to provide as accurate and helpful information as possible.

Hirata: Yes, I remember that day well... The atmosphere was really tense in the class, Ryuen has always had that reputation, hasn't he? He offers us a slightly embarrassed smile. By the way, I was discussing with Horikita the idea of organizing group study sessions when Ryuen's group interrupted us. He becomes more serious, lost in thought. Sudo was already starting to get angry, so I wanted to intervene quickly, try to calm things down and talk calmly to Ryuen to understand what he wanted but...

Ichinose: But it didn't work, did it? She laughs a little embarrassed, as if she expected it. Yes, that's typical of Ryuen... He's always had that attitude since the beginning of the year...

After Ichinose, it was Karuizawa's turn to share her story. Being in class at that time, she had a direct perspective on Ryuen's group's actions, just like me and Hirata. Obviously irritated, she began to speak.

Kei: Yeah, and then they went to bother Kouenji as he was walking away... Seriously, they arrived, did their thing for three seconds, and then left to bother one of our classmates. Then, sinking into my chair, I continued after a sigh. That said, Kouenji is no better, it would have done him good to learn a lesson.

Kushida: Oh? Does that mean Ryuen suspected Kouenji of being the mysterious "X" he was talking about?

Suzune: In response to Kushida's comments, I nodded firmly before continuing to speak. And then, we decided it was better to go see what was happening... Knowing Ryuen, it didn't bode well.

Hirata: Hirata continued, keeping his serious demeanor. Yes, and while you were following him, Kiyotaka had asked me to stay in class to maintain calm and prevent some of the noisier students, like Haruki or Kanji, from causing more trouble. So, I stayed in the room and am not aware of what happened after. All I know is that after Kiyotaka left, Teruhiko, Sudo, and Akito went to join Horikita.

Ichinose: Yes, that's a thoughtful reflection... Other complications could have arisen, and it could have dragged on. She sighed, resigned.

I understand, so it was Kiyotaka who asked Hirata to stay in class to manage the situation and avoid further complications. That's not really surprising, it's just like him.

After listening to everyone's comments, I decided to resume the narrative. Among those present, I was the only one who could continue it, having witnessed the rest of the confrontation with Ryuen's group.

Suzune: Yes, and that's where there was the confrontation between Kouenji and Ryuen... Ryuen wanted to know if Kouenji was this famous "X", as Kushida mentioned. I tried to reason with Ryuen, but obviously, it didn't work. I clicked my tongue as I remembered all this. Then, there was the sudden arrival of the class A leader, Arisu Sakayanagi, accompanied by three of her cronies: Masayoshi Hashimoto, Masumi Kamuro, and Hayato Kitō... Crossing my arms and legs, I continued while recalling the scene. The confrontation between Kouenji and Ryuen continued until Kouenji left, Ryuen probably concluded that Kouenji was not the "X" he was looking for.

Ichinose: So, the class A leader got involved in this confrontation, is that right? That could only end badly with such a mix...

Suzune: I simply nodded in agreement with Ichinose's words before continuing my narrative. Then, it became a confrontation between Sakayanagi and Ryuen. When I think about it, she seemed more to enjoy provoking and teasing Ryuen. I sighed before continuing. In the end, it really annoyed Ryuen, and he tried to kick Arisu with a violent blow, but Hashimoto intervened and took the hit instead... I pushed a lock of hair from my face and continued. I then tried to reprimand Ryuen for his behavior, but it didn't affect him at all... And Sakayanagi just confirmed that "nothing happened," being supported by Hashimoto. I clicked my tongue, annoyed. Seriously, whether it's her or him, they're both crazy, but in completely different ways.

Hirata: Well, we can say that it was rather eventful, can't we? He laughs softly, looking a bit embarrassed.

Suzune: Once again, I simply nodded to the others' comments while continuing, with the same gravity. And finally, once class A left, it was with me that Ryuen had a confrontation. I growled in frustration. I told him that his actions were unreasonable and unacceptable and that his approach was completely irrational, but he just laughed in my face, telling me that if I thought so, it was proof that he was right to act this way and that he would soon find the "X" he was looking for, having already considerably narrowed down the number of candidates. I clicked my tongue, still frustrated. He really has a way of irritating me. I sighed, calming down, then resumed my seriousness. And that's it, after that he left and so did we.

Once I had finished recounting the events I was aware of, a silence settled in, giving everyone time to assimilate all this information. That was all I knew anyway; after that, I hadn't seen Kiyotaka for the rest of the day.

Kushida was the first to break this silence, with a comment that seemed, frankly, unnecessary.

Kushida: That must have been really terrifying, right? I'm just relieved that you didn't get hurt... The important thing is that you're not injured, after all! She gives me one of her angelic and somewhat fake smiles, as usual.

Ichinose: Yes, that's the most important thing! He didn't hurt you, did he, Horikita? She smiles gently at me.

Hirata: Now, I regret a little bit not being there to support you... Facing Ryuen and his group alone must not have been easy. He looks at me with a mix of pity and compassion.

Kei: ...

Suzune: I sighed at their comments. Anyway, all that happened, and we just parted ways. It's in the past now, so I don't need your pity or your compassion!

I observed a moment of silence, waiting to see if anyone had other comments or reactions to bring up. Then, seeing that no response came after a brief moment, I decided to speak again.

Suzune: Okay, before we continue with the rest of the day's events, there's something we need to clarify, isn't there? I say, crossing my arms and looking at them seriously. Let's be direct, everyone here, at least in our group, now knows the identity of this "X" that Ryuen was talking about, right?

After my question, posed simply, another heavy silence fell on the room. This silence was heavier, more significant. I could observe the different reactions around me. However, Karuizawa particularly caught my attention. Her behavior seemed strange. She looked gloomy, her head down, her hair hiding her eyes. I noticed that she seemed absorbed in intense thoughts. Now that I think about it, she's become quieter recently... She must be hiding something.

However, my reflections were interrupted when Hirata finally broke the silence, seriously answering the question.

Hirata: It's... Kiyotaka, isn't it? He must be the famous "X" that Ryuen was talking about.

Ichinose: Ichinose nodded, then turned to me. Yes, there's really no doubt about who this "X" is, it can only be Kiyotaka... Each of us must have noticed his abilities at least once, or realized that he hides much more than he lets on, right? Ichinose smiled gently at the whole group.

Kei: ...

Kushida: Kushida feigns a look of surprise, as if she's suddenly shocked... She's really good at acting. Oh, wait, Kiyotaka? Seriously? Well, that's something, I didn't expect that at all! Ahahaha!

Suzune: Don't play innocent, Kushida, you probably know as well as we do! It's a matter important enough for us to share among ourselves, don't you think?

Kushida: ...

My response seemed to cut short Kushida's intervention, whose expression almost immediately faded. She gave me an intense look for a brief moment before looking away and clicking her tongue quietly, making sure no one saw her, then fell silent.

Behind all this, I couldn't help but notice Karuizawa's suspicious attitude again. She's definitely hiding something, I'm convinced... It must be related to recent events!

After taking a moment to observe this dynamic, I finally spoke again.

Suzune: The details of everything Ayanokoji has accomplished this year are superfluous, we don't need to go back over every action... It would take too much time and that's not the subject here. I looked at them for a moment, silencing them, then continued. Before we start theorizing, we need to proceed methodically... Now, we need to continue with today's events. Does anyone have anything to add, anyone who saw Ayanokoji afterwards? What else happened that was important that day?

Kei: ...

Again, Karuizawa didn't respond to my question. I could sense a slight change in her attitude, as if my question had made her flinch slightly.

"What are you hiding, Karuizawa?" I wondered to myself. "But this is really not the time to be hiding anything! We have far more important matters to deal with than to get lost in sorting out the true from the false or trying to understand her secrets." Tss, this girl can be really annoying at times.

Hirata: Uh, so, is there really no one else among us who has anything to add or say? At this point, the slightest piece of information can be crucial, even a simple little interaction with him.

Ichinose: Personally, I haven't seen Ayanokoji all day, so I'm learning about all the events at the same time as you. She looks a bit embarrassed. Sorry, it looks like I'm not going to be of much help here...

Kei: ...

Again, Karuizawa didn't respond, her gaze seeming to darken as the conversation continued. It was becoming evident that I needed to push her to speak. We really didn't have time to waste. If she had important information, she had to share it with us. Right now, we were just wasting precious time. Did she really want to find Kiyotaka that badly?

Determined, I decided to confront her directly, staring at her with a stern look and speaking to her out loud.

Suzune: You're unusually quiet, Karuizawa. Don't you have something to share with us, by any chance? I stared at her with a cold and serious look. I think the situation is serious enough for us to share everything we know, don't you? Or was your statement about wanting to find Ayanokoji badly false and baseless?

Hirata: H-Hey, Horikita... Try not to be too hard, it might not be so obvious for everyone. Then, he turned to Karuizawa with a kind look. Hey, Karuizawa... You know, we really need all the information we can get. So, would you mind sharing what you know? Since you've been quite close to Ayanokoji, maybe you saw him afterwards, right?

Ichinose: Ichinose seems to realize something and then addresses Karuizawa. Did something serious happen afterwards? Her expression becomes more serious. Maybe it's complicated for her to talk about it... Look, she seems to be thinking about how to explain it to us... Let's not rush her, okay? Horikita, even if it's urgent... Everyone has their difficulties in talking about painful things.

Kei: ...

Karuizawa's only reaction to my confrontation was a slight twitch and a whimper. "Tss, seriously..." I thought, exasperated. There's no need to dramatize it so much. The matter is far too important for us to afford to waste time like this! This kind of attitude only worsens my irritation. We should focus on what's really essential without getting distracted.

Suzune: No, we don't have all the time in the world! Whatever it is, we need to focus on the essentials... The rest, honestly, I don't care. Karuizawa, I repeat, can you tell us what happened next?

...

POV : Kei

Suzune: No, we don't have all the time in the world! Whatever it is, we need to focus on the essentials... The rest, honestly, I don't care. Karuizawa, I repeat, can you tell us what happened next?

Listening to Horikita's sharp and icy words, my body tenses up again, my right hand resting on my left arm in an instinctive protective gesture...

... I knew it, I was aware that this topic had to be brought up, laid on the table. I was inevitably destined to face it, and the more I realized it, the more I wanted to push this moment away.

... I know I have to do it, for Kiyo, for him, to be able to save him... As he has so often done for me, as he always has. But once again, I find myself powerless, like a coward, unable to face anything... I am just weakness, trembling in a corner, frightened by the consequences, waiting for it all to end.

I thought that maybe... I had managed to overcome this, after everything Kiyo did to protect me... But even then, it's complicated... In front of them, I find myself powerless again, confronted. I wanted to tell everything, to answer... To continue to find Kyo as soon as possible, but...

I can't do it, I just can't... I'm sorry, Kiyo, I'm still as weak, I'm still the same parasite I've always been... Hiding behind someone else, behind you.

... ... ... ... ...

Honestly, even with all the chaos since I arrived here, and even after being targeted again and saved by Kyo... Nothing has changed within me. In fact, I'm starting to think that maybe I never really intended to change. It's like I'm stuck in the past, back when I was bullied. I know myself better than anyone else. My strengths, my weaknesses, I have them all in mind. There's no one, no boy, no girl, who understands me as I understand myself. Even realizing this, I never really thought about changing. But in the end, it doesn't matter. Because in a way, I chose to be like this.

Every time I think about the wounds of the past, it takes me back to those horrible moments. When I see my reflection on the floor in the light, it makes me shiver, I feel even weaker, powerless... Why can't I change? Why can't I just let everything go, free myself from this burden, for Kiyo...? Why do I have to endure this? Why, over and over again?

I keep asking myself these questions, but they lose their meaning. The past is like concrete, it doesn't move. I can't change others, nor what happened... Even with everything Kiyo did for me, even though I love him to the point of losing my mind... Even though I fell head over heels for him, I can't change. Pathetic, right?

Life has been hard on me. My character, my personality, everything was shattered by the nightmares of that time. I lost my youth, my friends, my identity. Now, I have to rectify that. Even if everyone hates me for it, it's still better than reliving that horror. Yeah. I don't need "youth". I don't need "friends". What matters is protecting myself. I will do everything for that. I'm just a parasite. A girl who can't survive on her own...

... But deep down, I know I'm telling myself lies. Because now, I have friends, and someone I love more than anything... No matter how much I try to convince myself otherwise, the truth is there, relentless. Despite everything, I remain a parasite. A parasite whose host is Kiyo, since our return from the island, since that special exam... He promised to protect me, and he continues to do so, even without being obliged.

Yeah, I'm just a parasite, unable to do anything on my own, needing someone to survive... And yet, I so wish I could act, fight against these demons... For Kiyo, for the one I love. But I can't do it, I... I...

... ... ... ... ...

My body was trembling, tears accumulating in my eyes, inevitably sliding down my shivering legs. My arms, heavily resting on my knees, seemed to carry the weight of my weakness. I struggled to contain my vulnerability, but it showed despite me.

I refused to lift my face, to show them my true emotion. I had no desire to meet their gaze, to know what they thought of me at that moment. I wanted to avoid at all costs that they see the miserable and pathetic girl I hid under a falsely confident facade. Behind the guise of an independent girl, I was just a shadow, hiding my distress behind hollow words. I pretended to want to save Kiyo, but as soon as things got tough, my true nature, pathetic and weak, resurfaced. Just like then.

I could hear my own whimpers and sobs breaking in the room, getting louder, uncontrollable. I bit my lower lip with all the strength I could muster, hoping to suppress these sounds that escaped me, but it was in vain. Here I was, completely vulnerable in front of them - Horikita, Ichinose, Kushida, Hirata. I was like a puppet exposed on a theater stage, my weakness laid bare before a merciless audience.

... ... ... ... ...

Suddenly, a hand brushed my cheek, making me open my eyes abruptly. It was so unexpected that, by reflex, I lifted my head. At the moment, I regretted this gesture, thinking that I should have stayed as I was...

But when I finally lifted my head, my vision was blurry, my eyes clouded with tears. Gradually, the light helped me see more clearly. And then, I saw who it was: Ichinose, with her radiant smile, as if she were the sun itself. This light made everything around her seem unreal, she shone with such a warm and benevolent aura that it immediately calmed the storm in my heart.

I stayed there, a bit dazed, eyes wide open, and for a short moment, I stopped crying... Then, she began to speak, her voice was soft, comforting, like a caress of sunlight on my skin.

Ichinose: Karuizawa, are you listening? Look, everything's going to be okay, okay? We're all here for you... You don't have to hide what you feel, okay? Her warm smile intensified as she looked me in the eyes. Whatever it is, we won't judge you, okay? I promise that no one here will criticize your feelings. So if you need to cry, let it out... Turning slightly to the others without taking her eyes off Karuizawa. We're all here to listen to you, right?

There, I was just frozen, staring her straight in the eyes, unable to move or react... I just absorbed every detail of this beautiful scene in front of me, savoring the softness of her hand on my cheek. Then, without even realizing it, the others began to respond one by one to Ichinose's question. Everyone started reacting, each in their turn.

Kushida: Yes, absolutely agree! We're all in the same boat here, so don't hesitate to say everything you have in your heart. We're here to listen to you, after all, we're your friends, right?

Hirata: I think the same, Kei! Don't worry... I'm convinced that no one here will judge you for that. I probably understand what's going on, and I'm sure everything will be fine... Okay?

Horikita: Horikita didn't react immediately, she just clicked her tongue and finally seemed to give up the idea of insisting. Tsss... Alright, I get it. Sorry, Karuizawa, I didn't realize it affected you so much. She finally sighed. But don't think that means I consider you a friend. I just acknowledge a mistake on my part, that's all!

My eyes widened even more at their comments... Even Horikita, it was incredible, she had just approved what Ichinose said... As the shock began to dissipate, I felt more tears well up in my eyes... and finally, they began to run down my cheeks. I started to sob, no, to really cry, louder and louder, letting myself go completely.

My crying intensified when I felt Ichinose's arms around me. She was crouching in front of me, gently stroking my head, displaying a smile as warm as she could... I cried like this, in silence only broken by the sound of my sobs, crying in Ichinose's arms, releasing everything I had inside me, in this moment of comfort...

It was then that I really realized... That I was no longer alone. That I had friends to rely on and that... they wouldn't judge me... For all this.

... ... ... ... ...

Finally, after a while, when my tears began to dry up, leaving behind only residual hiccups from the intensity of my crying, Ichinose gently released her embrace and sat down in front of me. I then looked her in the eyes, and she continued to smile calmly at me... And when she saw that I was really better, her smile widened even more, illuminated by a reassuring certainty.

Ichinose: Kei, feeling a little better? Do you think you're going to be okay?

Kei: Yes, I... I think it should be okay, thank you, Honami.

Then, Ichinose slowly stood up, leaving me there to sit back down next to Horikita, without ceasing to look at me... Really, Ichinose is incredibly kind, I'm so grateful to her.

A soothing silence settled around us, no one said a word... It was as if they were all waiting for me to start talking, as if they wanted to give me all the time I needed. I was really touched by their attention... And even Horikita, she wasn't looking at me with her usual coldness, but rather with patience, as if she was just waiting for something, just watching me, calmly.

... ... ... ... ...

Yes, I can do this! I straightened up in my chair, taking a deep breath before exhaling loudly, releasing all the pressure inside me.

... And then, when I was finally ready, I looked up to meet everyone's gaze, and I started to say what was on my heart... To finally talk.

Kei: When... When... When I was in middle school. I take a deep breath, resigning myself to speak... There was no turning back. I was a victim of bullying, of violent harassment... Whether it was mentally or physically, it was brutal, savage. I breathe deeply again, feeling my body shiver slightly. I have a scar that testifies to it, a cut on my abdomen, right here. I point to the spot without lifting my top. But the scar isn't just physical, it broke me, mentally too. All this time, I've been acting like a parasite... Seeking protection, hiding behind false arrogance, behind a mask of a strong girl.

After my words, a heavy silence set in; no one dared to respond. They all looked at me with sad expressions, tinged with pity... even Horikita seemed to soften her look.

Eventually, it seems I was worrying over nothing, huh? It was Kushida who was the only one to break the silence.

Kushida: It must have been really hard to carry all that on your shoulders... Kei, I'm sincerely sorry for you...

Seriously, of all the people present, she's the last one I would want compassion from... Thanks to what Kiyo showed me, I know very well that she doesn't show her true face, that she hides her real intentions. This girl, she's a real traitor. But no matter, now is not the time to think about that. I need to focus on what I have to do.

Ignoring Kushida's comment more or less, I continue my story. There's no time to waste with unnecessary distractions.

Kei: And like a parasite, I was hiding behind a host... I needed infallible protection, a host where I would be untouchable, loved by everyone, popular. I take another deep breath, then continue. And that person, I found him, in our class... It was Hirata. Yes, I've had a fake relationship with Hirata until now, just to feel safe... I...

There, I found myself stuck, not knowing how to continue. Shame began to invade me, making each word increasingly difficult to pronounce. This revelation seemed to surprise everyone, except Hirata and Horikita... It was logical for Hirata; he was directly involved, he already knew everything. He gave me a look full of pity, which kind of annoyed me. And Horikita, she just remained impassive. Did Kiyo tell her something? No, impossible, he would never do that... Maybe she had simply guessed, or else, nothing I could say would really surprise her.

Kushida, true to herself, reacted first, displaying a surprised and shocked expression. She always has the knack for showing her emotions, even when I wonder if they are really sincere.

Kushida: Wait, so you weren't really in a relationship with Hirata? Does that mean you were... She seems confused. Wait, I'm lost here, it's going too fast... So, it was a fake relationship?

Ichinose: I understand... So, you weren't really with Hirata, is that right? Her expression becomes more serious. Hirata, can you confirm? Were you aware of all this, or was it just a proposal that you accepted?

At this moment, I couldn't say I was proud of myself... I was overwhelmed by shame, feeling almost dirty. But, on the other hand, I was relieved that no one here judged me, that they just listened to me, that they tried to understand. I had realized that I no longer needed to hide all this. And if it could help find Kiyo, then without hesitation, I would reveal everything...

Hirata spoke right after, his face showing a similar seriousness. He gave me a look, and we nodded mutually, as if to silently validate what had just been said. Then, he started his response, fully engaging in the conversation.

Hirata: Yes, it's true, and I was aware... In fact, she just asked me to protect her and to simulate a relationship with her in the eyes of everyone, there's nothing more to add.

Horikita: I understand... In fact, this doesn't really surprise me, it even seems quite logical when I think about it. Always with a serious look on her face and without looking at anyone in particular. You started dating after only a month of meeting, and even during your relationship, you always called each other by your last names... Now that I think about it, it was indeed predictable. I just never really thought about it, to be honest.

Hirata gave her one of those embarrassed smiles, so typical of him. Kushida, she continued her little act, pretending to be completely lost. And Ichinose? She just seemed to be thinking, lost in her thoughts... As for Horikita, I knew it, she had figured everything out. She didn't even seem surprised. Typical of her, always guessing everything before others.

Ichinose: Well, I really didn't expect all this, to be honest... Ichinose seemed somewhat disconcerted, although she maintained a serious air. But I can understand why you ended up there... Apart from Kikyō and Kiyotaka, I don't really know the others in class D, so I had no idea of such things.

Okay, so, it's pretty obvious... She's in class B, and she's their leader, on top of that... So, frankly, she didn't really have a reason to meddle in the affairs of class D or anything, except maybe to maintain good relations with some of our classmates, like Kushida or Kiyo, I guess... Until now, at least. But well, I'm not worried, after all, Ichinose is really a benevolent person.

Horikita: Okay, I understand what you're saying and I won't ask any more questions, it's not the priority anyway... Then, she looked at me again with a serious air. But what I would like to understand is how this is useful to us and how it answers the question of when you saw Ayanokoji again? She then seemed to think. Unless you took him as your new savior or something afterwards? But I wonder why, and what connection this has with what we were looking for initially.

Honestly, Horikita can be so impatient! Can't she understand that if I tell all this, there's a reason behind it? That I'm just trying to put things in context to understand what happened next!

Her reaction annoyed me a bit, and I raised my voice against her.

Kei: Yes, I'm getting there, but I need to set the context first, be patient! I sigh, leaning against the back of my chair. Yeah, well, you guessed right, it doesn't really surprise me now that I think about it... But yes, after the island exam, during the zodiac exam on the Speranza, I was again bullied and harassed by four girls from class C... I let out another sigh as I tell this. I felt like at that time, undergoing harassment again, just waiting for it to end... Once again.

Thinking back on that, I felt my hairs stand on end slightly... Obviously, it affected me, but remembering those moments wasn't really pleasant. After all, who would be happy to recall such events?

Kushida: What, students from class C bothered you during the exam? But why didn't you tell us about it...? I'm sure we could have helped! Right?

Hirata: Well, it's not that simple, you know... I mean, she had already asked for my help, but I couldn't bring myself to respond to her requests to hit them or do something violent in return. He sighed, then continued in a serious tone. At that time, the best thing I could do for her was to try to calm the situation, but obviously, it wasn't always going to work as well...

Ichinose: You made the right decision, anyway... Because they could have used that against you in the future. She smiled a bit awkwardly at Hirata. And it's always hard to confide in things like that... I mean, yes, she could have also come talk to me, but we didn't really know each other, and discussing such delicate subjects with someone, especially someone you don't know well, is complicated. Then, turning towards me, she displayed her warm, gentle smile again. It was very brave of you to reveal all this to us, Kei, you know?

When I think about it, I regret a bit having asked all that of Hirata... I feel like I exploited him a bit. But I'm relieved that it's all over now and that he doesn't hold it against me... I'm also really happy that everyone here accepted all this, without judging me. Yes, now, I know that I can make it. I know that I'm no longer the parasite I was before, that I can change and improve.

Horikita, she sighed again, sitting there with her legs and arms crossed, that stern look still on her face. It was her turn to comment.

Horikita: Yes, and anyway... I don't understand why someone would judge you for having been harassed. Isn't it normally the opposite? Normally, a harassed person receives pity and support, right? She sighed before resuming in a more serious tone. Anyway, after that, I guess it's Ayanokoji who came to your aid, isn't it? That sounds like something he would do, and then, I don't see any other logical explanation for why you're telling us all this now.

Seriously... She really guesses everything, huh? Well, at this point, it doesn't even surprise me anymore... Anyway, it's time to move on now. So, I continued my story after that, simply nodding to Horikita's deduction and confirming her suspicions.

Kei: Yeah, that's exactly it... It's Kiyo who came to my rescue, who saved me... H-He just made me promise that in exchange for his protection, I had to act for him, like a pawn, while he maneuvered in the shadows. He asked me to do a lot of things, often weird, that I didn't understand... Honestly, at first, I thought this guy had a serious problem asking me to do all these strange things. I let out another sigh, then continued. But in the end, I accepted and I began to know him better... And to discover the one I thought was just a dark and boring guy at first glance.

They all simply nodded their heads and accepted what I was saying firmly... Ichinose seemed totally in agreement... Is she really so close to Kiyo, has he already helped her or something like that? Aaaah, stop thinking about that, Kei, this isn't the time to be jealous!

Seeing that no one was reacting, I finally continued, but with a little difference... I felt my cheeks heat up slightly, it was subtle but I perceived it very clearly...

Kei: Well, now, it doesn't really matter anymore... He... I sigh again thinking about it. Actually, I was really sad when he told me he no longer had the obligation to act to reach class A and that he would not contact me again... And even if he assured me that he would always continue to protect me, I still felt a great sadness at that moment. Originally, all I wanted was protection, but after getting to know him better, after seeing everything he had done for me, I... I...

I felt my cheeks growing even warmer as I averted my gaze, embarrassed... Aaah, why do I have to feel awkward now!! Seriously, this is really not the time... Pff, why do I always react like this every time I think about you, Kiyo? All of this is your fault...

Ichinose: You've fallen in love with him, haven't you? Her sweet smile intensifies as she looks at me. So, you really love him, huh? I find that really adorable... I'm sure you two would make a great couple, you know?

Kushida: Oh? So that was really it? I had a bit of that suspicion... A boy and a girl getting that close, it often ends up in romance, don't you think? She displays one of her somewhat feigned angelic smiles. That's really great, and I totally agree with Ichinose, I'm sure you two would be super cute together!

Hirata: Yes, and I'm sincerely happy for you, to have found someone with whom to have a real relationship, ahaha. He laughs warmly, smiling at me gently. I'm also very grateful to Kiyotaka for taking over and helping you.

Horikita: It was predictable, anyway... The fact that you call him Kiyo while I've never really seen you together, or that you're so concerned about him, it doesn't surprise me at all. Humph, not like it interests me anyway, your love stories don't concern me at the moment.

Ah, there go my cheeks burning even more... I feel like I could faint any second now... Seriously, Kei, pull yourself together, this is ridiculous... But somewhere, it pleases me that they imagine Kiyo and me together... I wonder, what would we be like, the two of us? And our children, what would they be like...?

Stop, Kei, stop fantasizing like that, you're going to self-combust, I swear, I'm like a pressure cooker here!

Kei: E-Eh well, anyway, I've finished saying everything I had to say, the context, I mean!! We don't need to talk about that anymore, okay?! I shout this to everyone, feeling my cheeks still heated. W-We can get back to the present, now... And explain what happened yesterday, well, that day, after the end of classes.

Ichinose: Hehe, don't worry, we get it! She gives me a mischievous little smile... Ah, they're probably going to continue teasing me now... Then, she becomes a bit more serious again. So, all of this is related to what happened on the day of Kiyotaka's disappearance, isn't it? I suppose you wouldn't have talked about it otherwise.

... It looks like I've finally finished telling all this story, huh? Honestly, if someone had told me that I'd have the courage to confide like this to people I don't know super well, I would never have believed it... It makes me sigh. But I'm doing it for Kiyo, and for me too! It's made me grow... But the priority is to find Kiyo! And if it can help, then I'm ready to lay it all out there!! Don't worry, Kiyo, I'll do everything in my power to understand what happened!

... ... ... ... ...

Then, after a moment of silence, Horikita sighed and resumed speaking with her usual air, not really fixing someone in the eyes.

Horikita: Well, it seems that we have finished with all this "context" you mention, haven't we? Now, perhaps we can move on to the actually interesting information? Regaining her haughty and cold demeanor. Can you tell us what happened next that day, and when did you see Kiyo-... Ayanokoji for the last time?

...

POV : Suzune

As Karuizawa shared her story, I initially failed to see the connection with the ongoing events. At first, I thought she was simply changing the subject to avoid talking about that particular day. But eventually, I realized that her account was probably relevant. She was likely to make a connection with what had happened the previous day.

As she spoke, an unexpected feeling emerged within me. I felt somewhat guilty for having pressed her so strongly. However, what's done is done, and it was time to refocus on the main issue.

We needed to finish summarizing that day and then start theorizing about everything we had learned. Reflecting on it, I realized that Kiyotaka had become more than just an acquaintance to me. He was my first true friend here. He had managed to highlight my flaws and helped me improve. Perhaps I could really consider him a friend. After all, that was what my brother had always wanted for me: to make allies, friends.

Kei: So, it was in the evening and... I don't really know how, but... Ryuen found out that I was closely connected to the "X" he was talking about, with Kiyotaka. I remember this event clearly and painfully. He then called me to the roof, where he and his group were waiting. And honestly, they were real bastards!! They tried to force me to reveal the identity of "X" and tortured me, it was even very cold... They kept pouring water on me to torture me!! It was horrible, I felt like I was reliving a nightmare...

So, that's what happened next... Ryuen really stops at nothing, no method is foreign to him. So he really did that? His methods have always been cruel, devoid of any compassion or kindness, but this is a step too far. This far exceeds the limits he had already crossed since the beginning of the year. It's simply unforgivable.

All this in order to unmask his famous "X", the real leader of class D... He was ready to go that far. I felt frustration and anger rising in me at this revelation. Ryuen had crossed a line, and this was unacceptable to me.

Ichinose: Wait, Ryuen really did that? She seems irritated, which is quite rare for her. He has always had cruel and malicious methods, but this surpasses everything he has done so far. It's just... awful. To do such a thing, you really have to be heartless!

Suzune: Ryuen... This time, he clearly crossed the line, he went too far! I could feel the anger rising in me as I clicked my tongue in annoyance. So, what happened next... No, wait, don't tell me that Ayanokoji came to save you? Knowing him, he would probably have guessed what was happening but... Did he really go confront Ryuen's group alone? No, he would surely have come up with a plan... So, if you're telling us this, it means Ayanokoji intervened, right?

This conclusion seems to be the only logical one I can come to... She mentioned that he had made an agreement with her, promising to protect her. Knowing Kiyotaka, he would probably have guessed what was going on at one time or another. But would he really have gone to confront Ryuen's group alone, without telling anyone? This idea seems frankly absurd.

Would he really have taken the risk of confronting Ryuen and his group alone, ignoring the potential consequences? Even if he is incredibly capable, it's almost suicidal... Does he really care about Karuizawa enough to take such a risk?

Kei: Yeah, exactly, it was Kiyo who got me out of this mess... I'll skip the details because it's too long, but he saved me from them. In fact, I remember being completely shocked and confused to learn all these things, as if my brain had just been overwhelmed with information. She sighs with resignation. Seriously, it was then that I realized how impressive Kiyo is and that he had been holding back all this time... He had planned everything and even managed to beat Ryuen's entire group alone, in hand-to-hand combat, it was both terrifying and exciting... I didn't even know how to react or what to say.

...Wait, did she just say that he beat Ryuen's entire group, alone? That's impossible, isn't it? I mean... I've already seen a glimpse of his capabilities when he was up against my brother, and I've seen his physical condition and athletic skills at the sports festival, but... to take on an entire group, that's a whole different level. Against four people with limited combat abilities, it might have been doable, in fact, even well within his reach...

But we're talking about Ryuen's group here! Each of them is physically robust. And there's also Albert, and that's not all... Ryuen himself is strong enough. And Ibuki... I've seen a bit of her Taekwondo mastery, and it was clearly not low-level.

This is completely absurd... So, you're telling me he intervened without any plan to save Kei, exposed himself to them as if it was nothing, beat all four of them effortlessly, then just left with Kei as if nothing had happened?

I don't understand, I really can't comprehend. Seriously, Kiyotaka, who are you really? You already told me not to dig into your life... But the more I know you, the more I want to understand who you really are.

Hirata: Hirata seemed completely disconcerted after hearing this. I... I'm speechless. I suspected that Kiyotaka was hiding some things... But this... This goes far beyond anything I could have imagined. He managed to face four people at once? And... he came out unscathed? It's... incredible.

Kushida: Kushida seemed completely taken aback, her expression frozen in total shock.

Ichinose: Ichinose appeared to be deep in thought, displaying a much more serious expression than usual. It's incredible, really. I also knew that Kiyotaka was hiding some things, but this... She seemed at a loss for words. I don't even know how to react, it's so surprising, to be honest.

Suzune: I can't believe it... Is this serious? I knew he was physically more capable than he let on... But... Did he really confront Ryuen's group alone and beat four people by himself? It's incredible... Really, how many things is he still hiding from us? I'm starting to think there's nothing he doesn't excel at, it's really annoying! This made me even more irritated. The next time I see him, he's going to have to explain himself, I'm already preparing my list of questions specifically for him.

My compass will be ready, just for him... Seriously, when I think about all the things he's already hidden... And now, what else is he concealing? I really don't know what to think of him anymore. Chabashira-sensei had told me he was probably the most defective student, but if it's not because he dislikes trouble... then what's the reason?

So many unanswered questions. But for now, there are more important priorities to handle.

Kei: Yeah, yeah, I know!! And after that, not much, he walked me back to the dormitory a bit later and we parted ways... I guess I was the last person among us to have seen him, right? Anyway, nothing more happened after that.

So, that's all that happened? He came to save her, brought her back, and then, nothing more... Is that right?

We were all stunned by this story, struggling to believe what had just been said. Kushida seemed particularly disturbed, displaying an even more confused look than the rest of us. She didn't say anything at that point... Is she scared, or something like that? After all, it's true that she was one of his targets. I suppose she really didn't expect such a revelation.

... ... ... ... ...

We continued our discussion about this event, asking Kei to provide more details about what had happened. We wanted to know every aspect of Kiyotaka's intervention, how he saved her, and all the relevant details she could provide.

Suzune: Now that we've reconstructed the entire day and all interactions with Ayanokoji, we can move on to the next step, right? I paused, deeply reflecting. It's a bit like a low-grade detective novel, isn't it? There are three key questions to solve: "Who Dunnit", "How Dunnit", and "Why Dunnit". I then looked at everyone. I suggest we start with the second question, the "How Dunnit". It's the first puzzle to solve because without it, determining who did it and why will be quite complicated... We need to understand how Ayanokoji could disappear so suddenly, without being caught by cameras and without anyone noticing.

If we can solve the mystery of his disappearance, then we can identify the culprit, or at least eliminate some potential suspects. There remains a considerable mystery as to how he could disappear, especially in a facility as secure as ANHS, where surveillance cameras are omnipresent. Managing to disappear like that is certainly not ordinary. But there must be a way, and that's what we need to find.

Like in a detective novel, we need to solve this mystery methodically, answering questions one by one. We already have a potential time window for his disappearance, now we need to understand how it could have happened. With the basic information and a few clues in our possession, we should be able to find some answers.

Kei: Huh, what? I don't get it, what's this detective novel thing about? I mean, okay for trying to understand how he disappeared, but... I just can't grasp what you mean!!

Ichinose: Ichinose turns to Karuizawa, seeking to reassure her with one of her usual smiles. Actually, I think what she's trying to say is that it would be better to start by discovering how he disappeared, ahaha! It's a bit like the basic principle of a third-rate detective novel... "Who Dunnit", "How Dunnit" and "Why Dunnit". Basically, in a detective novel, it comes down to discovering the murder weapon and how the victim was killed, the "How Dunnit", finding out who is the culprit, the "Who Dunnit", and finally... determining the reason for this act, why the victim was killed, the "Why Dunnit". So, if we follow this logic, the first thing to do is to determine how the victim was killed... Here, since it's a disappearance, we need to find out how he disappeared. She then gives her a warm smile. You get the idea, Kei?

Kei: Oh, okay, I get it better now... She sighs before continuing. Yeah, well, I probably won't be much help, but I'll do my best to assist you!! I mean, if even the school administration hasn't found a solution, I doubt I can do better... But all together, we can at least try. Then, she clicks her tongue before adding. Tch, we don't really have a choice anyway...

Humph, she doesn't even know this basic principle? What a burden...

After Ichinose's explanations, once everyone seemed ready to think, it was time to get down to business. We had to start using our brains and consider all the possibilities.

Suzune: Alright, let's start then. I immersed myself in my thoughts, reviewing everything we know so far. We know he was last seen by one of the dormitory surveillance cameras, entering his own room. No camera recorded him leaving, nor anyone else entering after him.

Now that I think about it, we have no concrete proof of this information. Has anyone really bothered to verify the accuracy of this information? It seems to me that it would be advisable, at one point or another, that we ourselves check by examining the entirety of the surveillance video recordings of that day.

Kushida: I wonder... Does that mean someone found a way to bypass the surveillance cameras?

Hirata: No, I don't think so... Even though no security is perfect, if that really happened, I'm sure the school would have discovered it quite quickly. When they checked the surveillance cameras, they recorded all night, but showed no one entering or leaving.

Kushida: Ah, yeah, I see what you mean, ahaha... Yes, that seems a bit far-fetched, actually.

Hirata indeed raises a relevant point here... If a camera had been hacked or turned off, it could complicate the identification of the culprit or the understanding of events, but it would not make the "How Dunnit" unsolvable. With a careful examination of the recordings, it is entirely possible to determine if it's a fake, if the video has been tampered with or edited. None of these tricks are foolproof, so it's unlikely that the culprit manipulated the camera in this way.

This at least allows us to eliminate a potential lead.

Ichinose: Yes, and let's also remember that the door and window were locked from the inside...

Kei: So how does that work? If he couldn't get out through the door or the window, how is it possible? Did he teleport or something? It doesn't make any sense, seriously, what's this mess? It's completely incomprehensible!!

Suzune: Exactly, it's typical of a locked-room mystery... The window was locked from the inside, as was the door. And even though there might be a way to easily get out using an access card to Ayanokoji's room, the presence of the camera outside makes this hypothesis unlikely... I delved deeper into my thoughts before clicking my tongue. It seems that our mysterious inquisitor planned his move well, didn't he? Unless, of course, it's Ayanokoji himself.

Kei: No, even if Kiyo is weird and does incomprehensible things, it's impossible that he would do that!! Kiyo would never engage in such a stupid prank... It's completely absurd.

Suzune: I never claimed he was definitely the culprit... But currently, in the absence of concrete leads, we must explore all possibilities... And for now, the facts indicate that it's an option we can't ignore. Although I also doubt that it's the correct answer, we must not discard any hypothesis...

Hirata: Yes, but... It's just so improbable, don't you think? I mean, why would he do something like that? I can't find a logical explanation... Kiyotaka is not the kind of person to engage in such absurd pranks.

Suzune: Yes, you're probably right... There's no interest in such absurd pranks, and I even doubt that Ryuen would go so far as to do something like that. I sighed before diving back into my thoughts. To really find a solution, we would need access to Ayanokoji's room and conduct our investigation, which seems unlikely that we'll be allowed... But we have no choice, we have too little information. Honestly, I still don't know how to approach this locked-room mystery... There must be clues in his room, and if we want to solve this mystery, we need to find a way to examine the "crime scene".

Kei: Yeah, I agree!! Anyway, we can't do anything without that... We need access to his room if we want to discover anything. Right now, we don't have any starting point!!

Ichinose: I agree, but... None of us really have access to Kiyotaka's room, and I doubt they'll let us conduct an investigation there as if everything was normal...

Suzune: Yes, I think it would be wise to conduct this investigation tomorrow, we should request access to Ayanokoji's room... I was thinking of something, then an idea came to mind. We are still within the school premises, aren't we? I'm sure there must be a way to convince the administration with points. After all, here, everything seems to have a price.

It's just a hypothesis, but after all, we are still within the school premises and, like in society in general, even such a service could be corrupted or bribed. Of course, we cannot know the exact amount that would be necessary for this... But it is reasonable to think that such a thing is possible.

And if the operator categorically refuses, then the hypothesis of a special examination would be completely and definitively invalidated, although this theory had already seemed highly improbable.

Kushida: Convincing with points? But do you really think they will accept that? After all, we are no longer in the usual school context here... We are talking about a disappearance, right? Are you sure this is really going to work?

Kei: Yeah, and besides, even if they accept... They will set the price at an astronomical amount, just to indirectly tell us they refuse!! I wouldn't even be surprised, honestly.

Hirata: And I even think that requesting a copy of the access card, whether in exchange for points or not, wouldn't work... They will probably completely ban access to his room until further notice.

Ichinose: And even if we had basic authorization, they would probably have confiscated it until further notice, just as a precaution... After all, we are not in just any high school, security measures here are taken very seriously... They would certainly do everything to prevent us from conducting our own investigation.

They indeed present valid points of view, but again, nothing is certain until we have tried to verify for ourselves... As I have already thought, even in extreme cases like a murder or kidnapping, as cruel as it may seem, bribing someone to hinder an investigation is entirely feasible. Regardless of the amount involved, it's an undeniable truth.

Therefore, the opposite is also conceivable. Obtaining access to the crime scene or evidence using such means is just as possible. There is no doubt about it.

Suzune: If we don't try, we'll never know, right? After this comment, I let a small smirk appear. Well, if it doesn't work, there's always a plan B to get the access card to his room... I mean, a solution other than payment or bribery.

Yes... If it doesn't work, or if the required amount is excessive, there are other means. These methods may not be ethically correct, but in the current context, they question the very principles of this school. Here, as long as you're not caught, everything seems permissible... It's exactly like in our society, despite the rules in place.

I would not normally employ such methods, but... it's about investigating the disappearance of a comrade, no, a friend, and I can't afford to sit back and do nothing!

Hirata: Wait, you're not suggesting that...

Kushida: Suzune, are you seriously considering doing something illegal to get another access card to Kiyotaka's room?

Kei: Tch. Do we care if it's illegal or not at this stage, right? There's something more urgent right now!!

Ichinose: I understand the idea, but... Let's not forget that there's a surveillance camera that will film us entering Kiyotaka's room. Even if we manage to get an access card, we'll inevitably be spotted if we try to sneak into his room...

They still haven't understood, have they? They should know that I wouldn't make such a suggestion without having a very specific plan in mind...

I gave them a haughty smile before answering, crossing my arms and legs even more, and began to explain my thoughts to them.

Suzune: I'm not stupid, I wouldn't have suggested this idea without having thought it through. I smiled confidently, sweeping my hair back. Alright, listen to me carefully. I'm going to explain my plan. Each of you will have a role to play, so pay attention to what I'm going to say!

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