CLUE 13: 'How Dunnit' 2

POV : Ryuen

Ah, the end of this damn day, finally. It's time to have a little fun... Well, well, what have they done with Ayanokoji's room? I should see it with my own eyes.

Kukukukuku, it was hilarious earlier, wasn't it? Those idiots have such narrow minds, convinced he disappeared or was kidnapped... I'm going to take great pleasure in watching them struggle in their little game, just for the pleasure of seeing how pathetic they are. Oh, I sense it's going to be quite a show, no doubt about that! Ah, how I love this situation... A big thanks to you, the monster, for serving me such a gift on a platter. What was it, my Christmas present? Too kind of you!!

Don't worry, I have a little gift waiting for you too, and believe me, you're going to love it, kukukukukukuku ahahahaha!!

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

I was wandering around the guys' dormitory, relaxed, looking for the room of this monster, hands deep in my pockets. I had sent Mio away, telling her to go to her room, and the others, Daichi and Albert, I had left them aside. They would have been useless in this matter, just dead weight.

This story, it's a real brain teaser, huh? Even the school's brains are in the dark. Just a closed room, but there must be something... and I'm going to be the first to find it, I'll take care of it. Ah, I'm going to have a blast! Kukukukukukukuku!! So, it's a little competition, huh? Who's going to solve the riddle first?

Get ready, the monster, I'm coming to you.

"Mmmmh? Ah, but look at this... The door to the monster's room is wide open, and there's light." I chuckle to myself.

This is a stroke of luck, seems like I've hit the jackpot. So, who do we find in there? Our dear monster? Or another snooper who decided to intrude? I'm intrigued.

A mischievous smile on my lips, I approach the door...

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

Just in front of the door, I stop dead. A guy suddenly comes out of the room, forcing me to halt my advance to observe him.

"Oh, you show up just like that in front of me, huh? Mmmmh... Who is this guy? Not a student, that's for sure. Someone hired by the school or something like that? I've never seen him here, and he's clearly not a student."

I examine him carefully from where I stand, hands still buried in my pockets. The guy slowly turns around... And when he sees me, his smile widens and he approaches a bit. A young man, short black hair, pale skin, black leather gloves, and a pale brown trench coat. Under the trench coat, a white shirt, a midnight blue tie. A watch on his right wrist and that mocking smile... His eyes scrutinize me as much as I observe him.

"Oh, an intriguing guy, that's becoming rare," I think to myself, a sarcastic smile forming on my lips.

So he's the one who was in there, huh? I bet he's the inspector or something like that.

It seems like this little game is getting more and more interesting. Kukukukukukukuku!! At first, I just wanted to find out who was hanging around there to exploit it to my advantage, conduct my investigation quietly without any interference. But now, it's becoming downright more captivating.

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

After a brief moment of silence, a suspended instant where we scrutinized each other, both sporting sarcastic smiles... he began to speak. His way of expressing himself was something else... A haughty, superior tone, but not like those I'm used to facing. He spoke with blatant sarcasm, as if he was openly playing with words.

Inspector: Ah, an unexpected appearance... *giggle* *giggle*. Good evening, friend. Haunting the dormitories at night, is that your thing? Quite a weird hobby... Come on, spit it out, who are you? I have a little idea about you...

This inspector, he gets straight to the point, I love it! I get the feeling we're going to get along just fine, just from the vibe he gives off...

He claims to know who I am, huh? Kukukukuku... I didn't realize I was a celebrity in this school, it's almost flattering, you know.

Ryuen: Oh, good evening, good evening!! So, isn't it a bit rude to ask who the other person is without introducing yourself first, huh? I chuckle briefly before continuing. I was just attracted by the light, as they say. Not very discreet for an inspector, are you?

Well, honestly, I can't deny it... I was just there to snoop around a bit about what was happening at the crime scene, nothing wrong with that, right?

Well, it looks like my banter amuses the inspector too. His half-smile widened considerably at what I was saying... Yeah, I have a good feeling about this guy, he and I are going to have a blast. He seems as crazy as me, and honestly, I'm all for it!

Tanaka: Oh, what negligence on my part, my sincerest apologies! *chuckles* *chuckles*. After a discreet chuckle, he performs an exaggerated, almost theatrical bow. Allow me to introduce myself, I am the incomparable Inspector Hiroshi Tanaka, at your... let's say... service chuckles chuckles.

Inspector Tanaka, huh? I'll remember his name. Interesting guys, I never forget them... It seems like he's as into this story as I am. Honestly, I didn't expect that from a cop hired by our school... Just goes to show, you can always be surprised. Kukukukuku.

Tanaka: And you, let me guess... You're the infamous Ryuen Kakeru, aren't you? His smile takes on an even more sadistic hue.

So, he really knows me, the rascal? Well, what can I say... The perils of fame, they're beyond me, kukukuku!

But I know why he recognizes my face. I must be at the top of his suspect list, and even in the first place, I'd bet my hand on it. I wouldn't be surprised if he already knows the whole story with the monster. Guys as sharp as him, I spot them instantly, it's a piece of cake for me.

Ryuen: Ah, so I'm that famous? It's an honor that an inspector like you knows me so well, but I can't say I'm surprised... My reputation must have preceded me, huh? Kukukuku... Nice to meet you, Inspector Tanaka... So you're the cop in charge of this monster's disappearance story?

Tanaka: The monster, huh? *chuckles* *chuckles*. Are you talking about our dear Ayanokoji Kiyotaka? Bingo, you have him in front of you, in person! I am indeed the architect of this... horrible tragedy. He pronounces these words with theatrical drama and palpable sarcasm.

Ryuen: Oh yeah, it really shook me up, you know the type, I'm still in tears, kukukukuku... But tell me, is it common for you to leave a crime scene like that? Not the best for a cop, huh? A guy could have just stumbled here by chance and found our beloved inspector in action.

Actually, it was pretty obvious that he didn't care... He was probably waiting for someone to snoop around willingly, a suspect maybe? That's exactly the kind of move he would try... After all, it's exactly what I would do too. I still laugh just thinking about it.

I feel like a kid in an amusement park, the adrenaline I'm feeling is just insane. Ah yeah, first the disappearance of that damn monster, then these stories of time messing up, and now running into this fascinating inspector... I couldn't dream of a better playground!! I'm starting to think that all this was orchestrated just for me, maybe it really is my Christmas gift, after all? Kukukukukukuku!!

Tanaka: Yeah, maybe I'm being a bit too negligent, don't you think? He sports a sarcastic smile. Imagine the bad luck if a curious little guy stumbled upon the crime scene and found the inspector investigating his case... *chuckle* *chuckle*. I mean, I'm more the kind to keep my methods to myself, you know. In my work, I'm more... let's say... modest? He flashes a falsely innocent smile, *giggle* *giggle* *chuckles* *chuckles.*

Ah, I get it, so the inspector plays the sarcastic one. He's admitting that he's doing it on purpose... Or maybe he's realized that I caught onto his game? He's becoming more and more captivating, this guy. Well, he's not a student here, but I feel like I'm going to have a great time with him.

If I solve this case before him, I wonder if he'll keep his top-of-the-class face. Not a bad challenge, right? It motivates me even more to solve this puzzle. I could kill two birds with one stone: crush that damn monster and put this pretentious cop in his place. Ah, I'm really going to have a blast...

Ryuen: Ah but of course, I totally understand. Coming across our dear inspector right in the middle of his investigation, that would be really unlucky.

The conversation I was having with the inspector was more than just an exchange of words, more than simple chatter. We were on the same wavelength, him and me, it was truly captivating and fun at the same time!

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

As this guy and I were about to resume our conversation, a noise escapes from the monster's room. The door, already ajar, opens further. I can't help but turn my eyes towards this new arrival. And there, what a sight! A young cop, in uniform, right up my alley. She's absolutely stunning, with her brilliant brown hair cascading into a perfect ponytail, and those azure blue eyes... a real feast for the eyes. And that smile, both charming and mischievous on her face, really adds to her allure.

Police Officer: Inspector! I think that-... Oh, sorry if I'm interrupting. Turning towards me with a friendly smile, hands casually behind her back, adopting a relaxed posture, she slightly adjusts her cap. Pleased to meet you, sir!

Oh, look at her, the little cutie. As soon as she saw me, she hurried to apologize and introduce herself...

I stare at her, hands still nonchalantly buried in my pockets, my mischievous smile widening on my face. Then, I address her.

Ryuen: Ah, likewise, my pretty, pleased to meet you! Turning back to the inspector. Looks like you've got some work waiting for you, Inspector, huh?

Tanaka: *Chuckles* *chuckles*. I would have loved to chat a bit more about this and that with you, but what can you do? An inspector as in demand as me is always swamped. And then, with all these lovely ladies clamoring to fall into my arms, you know, it gets tiring quickly.

Ryuen: Ah, of course, I completely get it... Being popular can be exhausting, I totally understand you, Inspector.

I started chuckling again, and I bet he was having a good laugh inside too. Our conversations, they're something...

The policewoman, meanwhile, seemed a bit lost, with a slight blush creeping up her cheeks, almost imperceptible, and a slightly annoyed look. Isn't she cute? If she were in my class, I wouldn't leave her alone, kukukukuku!!

Police Officer: What? Wait, what are you talking about? Hey, inspectors, sorry to cut your chat, but we're short on time, you know that!

Tanaka: Yes, yes, I'm coming, Aiko, come on, you know possessive women aren't really my thing! *Chuckles* *chuckles* *chuckles*. So, my dear, what's so urgent that you had to interrupt me?

Aiko: Uh... I... Oh dear! She gave a cute little pout to the inspector, who couldn't help but smile in return. Come on, Inspector, we've got work to do... We're done here, and now, we need to meet up with Inspector Ayako and Kenji for the report!

Tanaka: Ah, but of course, I was about to forget, where was my head! Forgive me, my dear Aiko, I was, how shall I put it... totally absorbed in such a captivating conversation. *Chuckles* *chuckles * *chuckles*.

After chuckling to himself for a moment, he looked at me again and started talking to me, with the same tone and attitude he had maintained throughout.

Tanaka: Well, sorry, my friend, but it seems I have to cut our fascinating exchange short! You understand, I can't afford to neglect my inspector duties, right? *Chuckles* *chuckles* *chuckles*.

Ryuen: Ah, but don't worry about me... I understand completely, we'll have the chance to pick this up later, right?

Yeah, I'd bet my hand on it... We'll cross paths again soon, and it'll be even crazier and more captivating, I'm sure.

And then, the Inspector started chuckling again, wearing a sadistic smile, before continuing to walk towards me.

And then... he stopped right next to me, and I felt an aura emanating from him. A dark aura, yeah. From the corner of my eye, I caught his psychopathic smile, transforming his whole face. He spoke to me in a lower voice, with a tone so dark it would scare just about anyone.

That made me smile even more. Oh yeah, he couldn't be more intriguing than this.

Tanaka: Oh, no need to worry, we will see each other again, as sure as the sun rises in the east. *Chuckles* *chuckles*. Aiko, go ahead, I'll join you in a moment, I just need to say goodbye to our friend here properly.

Aiko: Aiko paused, observing each of us in turn, before letting out a resigned sigh. Well, Inspector, you never change! Okay, but please hurry. Otherwise, Inspector Ayako will give you a talking-to again!

And right after she said that, she gave me one last look. I responded with one of my trademark smirks. She quickly averted her eyes, blushing a bit, pulling a cute pout before starting to run off. Really a pity she's not part of our school...

Then, standing up straight, I stay there, not turning around right away, keeping my mocking smile. The inspector had told her to go, and it wasn't for nothing. He had a plan in mind, something to tell me... Kukukuku, this tense atmosphere he's just created, it's really heating me up.

Ryuen: Looks like you have something else to say, inspector? Come on, I know you're busy, no need to be so sh-

Tanaka: If you thought you'd outsmart me in this investigation, sorry to disappoint you, my friend... Because in the end, I already know who is responsible for this case.

He cut me off sharply with a cold and dark voice, enough to send shivers down anyone's spine... Except mine, of course.

Outsmart him, then? He's figured out my goal... Not surprising for an inspector, kukukukuku!! But what does he mean by that? He's already solved the case but is keeping it to himself? Am I supposed to deduce that he's mocking me? Ah, it's obvious with his twisted smile, he's taking this case as a game...

He thinks he's above me, huh? But I swear, I'm going to wipe that smile off your face, sooner or later.

Ryuen: So you think you've found the culprit? That's good news! It means we can wrap this up quickly and find the monster in good shape, right?

Tanaka: No, no, not to me. We both know very well that this is just a game, between us. I'm not really concerned about finding him, you could even say I don't care. That's not my goal, and it's the same for you, isn't it, my friend?

He's already laying his cards on the table, this inspector. It's funny, that. I have a feeling he and I are going to have a good laugh.

So he's caught the culprit? And he throws that at me, just like that? This is getting interesting. A game? Hey, buddy, aren't you a bit too sure of yourself thinking you've already got the upper hand on me? You, you've spent a week solving the thing, and I've been here just for a day... I just have to outsmart you before the countdown ends, easy, right? You're going to regret being so smug about dragging this case out... Kukukuku...

Seriously, since I've been at this school, it's been one crazy thing after another... But this, this is the icing on the cake! I've really hit the jackpot!

Ryuen: Come on, that's not nice, Inspector! He could really be in trouble, huh? I couldn't help but let out a little chuckle, once more.

Tanaka: *Chuckles* *chuckles*. I wonder who will manage to untangle the threads of this investigation... Little rabbits trying their hand, huh? Well, I'll just content myself with watching them squirm. *Chuckles* *chuckles*. And you, you're in the game too, my friend... Hmm, it seems that for you and some others, the timeline of events is a bit blurry, isn't it? So, it's only been a day for you, if I'm not mistaken? So, I wonder... How long do you think it will take you to solve this investigation, hmm? I challenge you to try to outdo me. *Chuckles* *chuckles* *chuckles* *chuckles*.

Ryuen: A challenge? You just want to play with me and everyone else in the same boat, actually... Ahahahaha, this is getting exciting. Do I interest you that much, Inspector? Well, if it's asked so nicely, I can't say no. Kukukuku... But now, I wonder, how and in how much time did you solve this case? Not that I want all the details, it would spoil my fun after all... Kukukukukukuu ahahahahaha!!

It seemed like he was just itching for me to ask him that question... He continued to walk a bit, chuckling and giggling, then suddenly, he stops. I turn around, staring at him, still with that mocking smile plastered on my face.

Tanaka: *Giggles* *giggles*. So, you see, it's quite simple, my friend. With theatrical flair, he turns to face me, bowing like an aristocrat, his smile both sarcastic and sadistic fully exposed. Simply because this case, once existing, could only be solved by the exceptional Inspector Tanaka Hiroshi. What's your take on the matter, my dear Dragon Boy? *Chuckles* *chuckles* Ehehehehehehehahahahahahaha!!!

...

POV : Arisu

The day was coming to an end, signaling that it was time to head back and surrender to a peaceful sleep. This game, so captivating, truly had something special about it. Watching these poor souls scramble to unravel the truth was exquisitely amusing.

The day was drawing to a close, indicating that it was time to head back and surrender myself to a peaceful sleep. This game, so captivating, truly had something special. Watching these unfortunate souls scramble to unravel the truth was exquisitely amusing.

"...And yet, none of them have grasped the answer yet," I mused with a hint of amused disdain. Even if that 'Dragon Boy' seems to be getting closer, he's still far from the mark. The solution, so obvious, remains out of their reach. It's so entertaining to watch them, these pawns, these poor souls, desperately seeking a truth so clear. The key is not in his room, but right under their noses. "A more complex riddle would have been appreciated, but no matter, I shall find my enjoyment elsewhere..."

"Fufufufufu," I laughed inwardly. "And when they brush against the truth, it's at that precise moment that I will overtake them, revealing the solution, right under their noses. Their reaction will certainly be interesting to observe." To defeat you, Kiyotaka, I will not be satisfied with this simple victory. I will surpass you at your zenith, consider this a mere diversion in our game.

As my cane echoed on the nocturnal ground, I made my way leisurely towards the dormitory. In front of me appeared some figures. Without speaking to them, I examined them carefully. Among them, a woman and a man I did not recognize. The man, dressed in a police uniform, seemed to be following the woman, a little ahead, dressed in an elegant beige trench coat, beneath which one could glimpse a tie and blouse. Her mid-length brown hair framed a serious face, accentuated by sunglasses that barely concealed her deep blue eyes. Her demeanor reminded me of Chabashira-sensei, the homeroom teacher of class D.

"Fufufufu... So, this is the inspector in charge of the case..." I pondered. "Two inspectors involved, interesting. It seems the school is sparing no effort in this matter."

As we passed each other, I felt the scrutinizing gaze of the Inspector upon me. I returned her look, our eyes inevitably meeting in a brief, silent exchange. Then, a few steps behind me, I heard her footsteps come to an abrupt halt. Intrigued by this sudden reaction, I too decided to stop.

"Oh, it seems she has something to say to me. This is most interesting," I thought, already anticipating the nature of our imminent interaction.

Inspector: Are you Arisu Sakayanagi?

"Ah, she recognizes me, then?" I thought, slightly surprised but not entirely caught off guard. "She probably doesn't know me in detail. They must have given her a brief description of me without specifying my appearance." Reflecting on this situation, I considered that if this was the case, she must possess excellent deductive and observational skills. "That's quite impressive," I admitted to myself, "especially considering she hasn't yet had the chance to interact directly with me."

Arisu: Arisu Sakayanagi, you say? My voice was tinged with feigned curiosity, masking my real intentions. Maybe yes, maybe no... What is it that you wished to discuss with her?

Inspector: I see. Have you solved the problem?

My interest in this inspector grew. "Could she also be a genius?" I wondered, amused by the idea. "It wouldn't be so surprising, actually, fufufufu..." She had used my response to a simple question to confirm 100% her hypothesis about my identity. A clever and revealing approach.

Then, abruptly, she questioned me about the resolution of the case. "Fufufufu, what a fascinating inspector," I thought. "She must have also deduced what happened." The resolution of this mystery, while crucial, was only part of the puzzle. Finding Kiyotaka would be an entirely different challenge. "But truthfully," I reflected, "I'm not so concerned with that part of the puzzle at the moment." My mind was focused on the multiple facets of the ongoing game, each move a strategic step in this labyrinth of intrigue.

Arisu: The problem, you say? You are referring to the disappearance of our dear Kiyotaka, aren't you? My tone remained neutral, but my eyes betrayed a glint of interest. Well, who knows... After all, it's not really my role to solve such mysteries, is it?

Inspector: Good. We'll see each other soon, Miss Sakayanagi. Have a good evening. Kenji, let's go.

As quickly as she had appeared and engaged in conversation, the inspector disappeared, having drawn her conclusions from the few responses I had provided her. She left with the policeman, whom I assumed to be the aforementioned Kenji. He seemed perplexed, evidently confused by the exchange he had just witnessed, scratching his head before following her.

Without a word, I too resumed my path towards the girls' dormitory. "That exchange was certainly most intriguing," I reflected. "We will meet again soon," she had said. I wholeheartedly agreed with that statement. Individuals of her caliber are not easily forgotten. I was already looking forward to our next meeting, curious to see how our next interaction would unfold in this fascinating game of minds.