We are the chick. The world is our egg. Let's play Kara no Shoujo.

I saw this at the top of the LP page and I was dancing in glee.
There were seriously tears in my eyes. They're still there, but now for a completely different reason. YOU NEVER KNOW WHAT YOU HAVE UNTIL IT'S GOOOOOOONE </3

awwwwww

it... it's not impossible that I might be able to pick it up sometime in December.... but I can't promise anything...

... wait, is being nostalgic for creepy serial killers a good thing?

It is when you're around- wait.
...wait...

Okay, so, where were we?

Kusaka is dead. Kazuna is in the hospital. Her baby is gone (and her leg). Shugo's not taking it well.
Somebody's putting chopped-up people inside eggs (You hear about easter eggs in games, but this is ridiculous!)
The girls of the art club think eggs are for praying over
Toko2 is home sick and her mother is a nervous wreck with debt-collectors chasing her
Reiji is being re-hired for his school tending job because we have a new nutcase to chase
And we voted to go to Ouba Academy and the Kuchiki Institute.




It looks like the students have already gone home. I do spot Tojiko by the entryway, though.



Reiji: "What're you doing over here?"

Tojiko: "Good timing, Sensei. Are you going to take a look at the crime scene again?"

Reiji: "Nah, I didn't come here with that in mind... Hold on. What are you after?"

Tojiko: (sprite bouncing) "Don't you wanna go? C'mon, let's go!"

Tojiko pulls on my sleeve.

Reiji: "Even if you go... Hasn't it already been cleared up?"

I'm certain that the investigation was finished, and the area cleaned up, before I left.



Reiji: "Good grief, girl... It's only the hallway of the second floor."

---Well, if that's all she wants, then it'll be over with quickly.



It's been cleaned up spotlessly, and there are no conspicuous traces that I can see.

Reiji: "Satisfied?"



Tojiko nods obediently, giving no real effort to look at anything in detail.

Tojiko: "...Why'd they do such a thing?"

Reiji: "Beats me. We won't know anything until we catch the culprit."

Tojiko:"...But that wasn't necessarily real human flesh, was it?"

Reiji: "Well----They haven't released a full analysis yet. But my gut tells me that it was the real deal."

That portion of a finger wasn't artificial - it had a visceral, lifelike quality to it.

Tojiko: "Yeah... You're right."

She's pretty subdued.

Reiji: "Had enough?"

Tojiko: "Yeah... Thanks, Sensei."

Tojiko nods, her eyes downcast.

(I guess being the person to discover bits of dead body is a bit hard for even our resident genki girl to get over.)

Takashiro Kazuna's still hospitalized here. I've come to see how she's doing, but----



Hatsune is in the lobby. There's a towel in her hands. It's dripping - she probably came out here to wet it.

Reiji: "Hatsune-kun, how's she doing...?"



Reiji: "I see..."

Takashiro Kazuna is in a coma. Her condition's stabilized, and it seems she's no longer in danger -- but even so, she hasn't awakened since the horrors she endured.

Reiji: "How's Takashiro?"

Hatsune: "Shugo-sama's... always at her side."

Reiji: "...Let's go."



Quite peacefully, actually. To look at her face, you'd never suspect a thing.

However... The body covered by the futon has been destroyed.

Her husband is sitting beside her. There's no sign that he's noticed my entrance. He just stares fixedly at Kazuna's sleeping face.

Reiji: "----Takashiro."

Hatsune grabs my arm, shaking her head.

Hatsune: "...He's always like this."

Reiji: "..."

Shugo's cheeks are sunken, his hair's unkempt, and it looks like it hasn't been washed for days.

Hatsune: "...Shugo-sama, excuse me."

Hatsune slides by Shugo and applies the towel to Kazuna's cheeks.

Reiji: "Takashiro... What's gonna happen if you don't get your act together, buddy?"

He doesn't even budge, despite my question.

Reiji: "You know that you being here doesn't help anything, right?"

Hatsune: "Tokisaka-san!"

Hatsune raises her voice, but I'm well past the point of caring. There's something I have to say, and damned if I'm not going to say it.



Shugo: "...I'm sorry."

Shugo mutters hoarsely.

Reiji: "...Then stay there. But realize that you're not doing it for her sake. You're just doing it for your own satisfaction."

Shugo: "I know..."



Hatsune soon joins me in the hallway.

Hatsune: "Um..."

Reiji: "Yeah... sorry about that. I couldn't help saying it, seeing him like that."



Reiji: "Really? .... Hatsune-kun, can I leave him in your hands?"



She looks a bit perplexed, but gives me a firm nod.

Reiji: "...Well, ideally, my words will light a fire under his ass and he gets back on his feet."

Hatsune: "I'm certain he'll be fine. It's Shugo-sama, after all."

(Well, was that a heartwarming reunion or a depressing one?)

I return home and eat dinner with Yukari.



Reiji: "Well, yeah. A lot happened."

Yukari: "You went to the hospital too, right? How's she doing?"

Reiji: "...Still the same."



Yukari's face falls slightly.

Yukari: "... I hope she gets better."

Reiji: "...Me too."

Yukari: "----Nii-san, would you like some coffee?"

Reiji: "Sure, I'll take some."

Yukari heads toward the kitchen. Before long, the familiar aroma wafts into the living room.



Reiji: "Thanks. ---Oh, right. There's something I'd like to ask of you."

Yukari: "What is it...?"

Yukari looks up from stirring the sugar into her coffee.

Reiji: "It seems Tojiko's taken an interest in what happened today."



Yukari nods.

Yukari: "Tsuzuriko's probably overjoyed because she's found some good material to work with."

Reiji: "That's what bothers me. Could you try to persuade her otherwise?"

Yukari: "I don't think she'll listen to what I have to say, but I'll give it a try regardless."

Reiji: "That'll be plenty. Thanks."



Reiji: "Phew---"

I heave a large sigh.

Given that nobody's hired me to look into this case, I'd be perfectly justified in letting things lie... But it's weighing on my mind.

I guess I'll hit up Uozumi for some information---- The scraps of flesh discovered today have probably already been analyzed, so I'll go over to Natsume-san's tomorrow and ask about them.

Nothing for it... I guess I'm just the type of guy that likes to stick his neck into things. A tad hypocritical, considering what I said to Tojiko...



(This is NOT creep-o-vision. This is white text, not black. This just means we're going into a viewpoint that isn't Reiji's. So... who can we be now?)

(Mother? Sensei? ... We're Toko2.)



(I don't hate you, I'm just yandere! ... NOT REASSURING.)




(Toko2 has issues.)





(And we all know what that is.)





(... so, that's what the inside of Toko2's head is like.)

Creeeepy. But I guess it was pretty obvious from the start that Toko the Second was 'off'.

I was following this playthrough a while back, and was wholeheartedly sad to see that it was being discontinued. Color me surprised when it popped back up to the top of the list, with new updates. Looking forward to following this again! I don't think I could actually stomach playing it myself.

Yeah, I had to exchange computers and be really busy for a month dropping out of helicopters to invade fancy balls and steal secrets from enemy nations... no, not really. I knew I was going to be tied up all of November and wasn't sure I'd be able to get the game running properly in my new location, which is why I didn't promise to be back. But it looks like things are working now, so I can guide you along to your inevitable demise... wait, did I say that? No, no, I'm sure our crusade will end with sunshine and happiness we are so screwed.

(As I'm still not going to do all the possible outcomes this may be a good time to point out that a bunch of stuff at Mangagamer, including this game, is 20% off right now.)

Ah, you're back! :D Will definitely look forward to following this again, with all the pain and despair that will likely ensue.

Ah... Welcome back!
I had a lot of fun reading this, back before I registered... Looking forward to the continuation!
*Slinks back off into lurkerdom*

Song 11 - The Ring



(Still not Reiji? Where are we now?)




(I'm writing out the rest of this scene because this display style doesn't identify speakers, and while I can hear the voice acting, you can't.)

"Hey, nice work there." Uozumi calls out to his co-worker, who had arrived before him ---- Or had worked the night shift, perhaps ---- and heads to his desk.

Man: "Uozumi, they want you in the conference room."

Uozumi: "The conference room? Why the hell do I have to go over there?"

Man: "Wasn't there another dismemberment yesterday? It looks like they're gonna go all-out on this one, making this place the investigative HQ. The assistant director is going to take charge."

Uozumi: "He's coming all the way over here? What do you want to bet that he's a greenhorn who's never set foot on a live crime scene?"

Uozumi has always believed that such supervisors will hinder any investigation.

Man: "Well, about that... Word is, he solved some impossible case a few years back, and then headed over to the National Police Agency when it was founded two years ago."

Just hearing that is enough to put Uozumi in a foul mood. He only knows of one man with a background like that.

Uozumi: "...that guy?"

Man: "Yeah, and there's a call here for you. A man named Tokisaka."

Uozumi: "Reiji? Haha, so that bastard wants to snoop around too?"

Uozumi needs to head over to Takashiro Hospital after this to get the results of the forensic analysis. Might as well call Reiji over there, as he probably wants in on it as well.

Uozumi wonders if the two men are acquainted - he can't remember ever seeing them together at the same time.

Uozumi: "... I guess that guy joined the force after Reiji quit, huh?"

(No, they're not going to use That Guy's name until we meet him for ourselves.)

He's sure that they've at least seen each other before, though. Uozumi heads for the conference room, still pondering how best to get Reiji involved in this mess.



(And now back to your regularly-scheduled protagonist.)



(Image 1500)

It looks like they've established an official investigative headquarters for everything related to the dismemberment cases. The superintendent in charge of the whole operation is also coming to see the autopsy results----



Natsume-san peeks outside, wearing her usual short winter coat.

Reiji: "Good morning, Natsume-san."

Natsume: "Good morning. Uozumi-san and the other guy aren't with you?"

Reiji: "Nope, I came directly from my house."

Natsume: "If that's the case, I suppose I'll explain things to you first. The police should have my report already, anyhow."

Reiji: "Ahh, I see."

Natsume: "It looks like we'll get to meet the new commissioner today, too. ... But anyway, in we go, Tokisaka-san."



It's been immaculately cleaned.

Natsume: "Shall we start from the beginning?"

Reiji: "Please. ... Yesterday wasn't the beginning?"



Reiji: "...If I recall correctly, the newspapers didn't report that they came from chicken eggs, did they?"

They simply described it as "Pieces of meat, thought to be of human origin, discovered in various locations."

Natsume: "If they told the truth, wouldn't it just create a panic? You wouldn't even be able to make an omelet."

Reiji: "Well... I suppose it would, at that."



Reiji: "There's been that many...?"

Natsume: "But it doesn't add up to a complete body. An egg can roughly hold 50 to 60 grams; we've only found around 15 kilos of meat so far."

Reiji: "So what you're saying is that we haven't found them all yet?"



(Great.)

Reiji: "We haven't confirmed any victims yet?"



Reiji: "Another schoolgirl? A few days ago, you said?"

That's odd.

Natsume: "...Which means, the ones found last month aren't from this girl."

Reiji: "What about any other missing persons----"

Natsume: "There's tons of 'em. There's no way to narrow down the list."

Natsume-san shrugs.

Natsume: "The flesh found last month was rotten upon discover; there were no easily recognizable body parts... Oh, that's right."

Reiji: "What is it?"



Reiji: "The limbs... Then, last month----"

(He's asking whether these could be any of the limbs Kusaka chopped off people.)

Natsume: "All accounted for, once you factor in the pieces buried in the killer's yard. That's why I think they're completely unrelated."

Reiji: "...I see."

Curious and curiouser...

If things continue on like this, we may start turning up corpses missing all their extremities.



Natsume-san casually picks up an eggshell sitting on a steel tray nearby.

Natsume; "They went to a lot of effort to pack these eggs full of meat."

Reiji: "Is something like that even possible?"



I look, and sure enough, you can see the site where a hole was bored through the shell.

Reiji: "Well, if they put themselves through all that, then what could it possibly mean...?"

Natsume: "I'm a perfectly ordinary, well-adjusted citizen, and you're asking me to tell you that?"

She raises a knowing eyebrow at me.

Reiji: "I can't really picture someone doing this just to see how people will react to it..."



The door to the autopsy room opens, and Uozumi steps in.

Natsume: "Uozumi-san, you're late."

Uozumi: "...I brought my boss with me."

Uozumi practically spits the words, as if the act of saying them brings a sour taste to his mouth.

Reiji: "Boss?"



Reiji: "...Won't he just muck up the crime scenes with a background like that?"

Isn't this the kind of situation where too many cooks will spoil the broth?



(...!!! Glasses man! Where have you been all this time?)

The voice drips with sarcasm.

(And you're a jerk, too! A jerk in a suit with glasses! The readers are going to LOVE you.)

Uozumi scowls.



Natsume-san eyes the newcomer as he enters.

Yaginuma: "Indeed, it's been a long time... Dr. Takashiro."

The man bows with exaggerated politeness. He looks at me out of the corner of his eyes.

Yaginuma: "You - You're Tokisaka Reiji, correct?"

Reiji: "Yeah."



Reiji: "...You don't say."

I'm pretty sure this guy is Yaginuma Ryoichi, a detective who came to the Ueno PD after I quit the force. And now he's a commissioner at the NPA---?





Yaginuma; "A general must see to his soldiers personally. And so, I've come here to have a look at a certain outsider who's been poking his nose into our investigation."

Natsume: "...I think you've overstayed your welcome."

(Said in a sing-songy sweet way.)

... It looks like these two have a history.

Yaginuma: "...I do have other matters to attend to, so I'll excuse myself now. ---- Oh, and Tokisaka-sempai?"

Reiji: "...What?"



Uozumi: "...Tch."

After making a disgusted noise, Uozumi follows Yaginuma outside.

Reiji: "...I take it you two don't get along, Natsume-san."



(Only his sisters get to harass Shugo!)

Reiji: "...Err, I really don't think you have to go that far..."

First off, I need to report to Saeki about what happened yesterday.



... And in any case, it's still the middle of their spring break. But even if there were students around, I doubt they'd be causing a ruckus.

Reiji: "Excuse me, Vice-Principal Saeki."

I call out to Saeki upon entering the faculty room.



Reiji: "I've come to fill you in on what happened yesterday. It's as we feared----"

Saeki: "...I see."



Reiji: "...The victim was Kano Tomoko, a student from another school. I think the students here would do well to be vigilant."

Saeki: "So it would seem..."

It looks like it's all going in one ear and out the other.

Reiji: "...Vice-Principal?"

Hearing my tone, Saeki raises his head.



Reiji: "The past...?"

Saeki: "Yeah... You asked me about him yesterday, right? Mamiya Shinzo."

Reiji: "Yes... What about him?"

Saeki: "The truth is... I actually am acquainted with him. It's not exactly a good memory, which is why I didn't mention it..."

(Truthfully answering a detective's questions the first time around would make life too easy!)

Reiji: "No, don't feel as though you have to force yourself."

I don't really want to pry into someone's past. Which isn't to say that I'm not curious, but----



Saeki scratches his head in embarrassment.

Saeki: "Naturally, he and I weren't that close. When he was engaged --- to a model --- I wasn't even invited to the wedding."

Reiji: "I see..."

Who was it who spoke about six degrees of separation?

Reiji: "Thank you, Vice-Principal."

Saeki: "Not at all, I don't mind."

All the same, he can't keep the hint of loneliness from his voice.

///



Woman's Voice: "----that's why I ---- think ---"

I hear Nene's voice from the infirmary. She must be on the phone.

When I enter, she's facing her desk.



When Nene notices me, she slams the receiver back into the cradle.



Reiji: "...Nah, I just got here."

I come up with a cover story on the spot. Not a very good one, evidently; she's still eyeing me cautiously.

Though I really don't have any idea what she was discussing... Whatever it was, she clearly didn't want it overheard.



Reiji: "I had some business with the vice-principal."

Nene: "...I see."

Her desk is littered with documents. I wonder if she was investigating something?

I glance at the topmost sheet and spy the name "Kuchiki Toko."

Reiji: "...What's that?"



Nene briskly gathers up the loose papers.

... Something fishy's going on here. She's trying to hide something from me.

Do I investigate further, or leave it alone?



(And it's time for a vote! I believe some of you have been suspicious of Nene in the past... what do you think she's up to, and what should we do about it?)

I say investigate the documents. Since they're right there, it'd be harder for her to lie about it than to lie about the phone call. We can always track the phone call later, right?

I won't vote on what to do because I don't know and I don't wanna die.
BUT OH MAN THIS IS BACK IT'S BACK CHRISTMAS IS REAAALLLL~~~

But if you don't vote we might end up hanging forever in suspense unable to get enough votes to proceed!

/evil

why are you doing this to me.
ask about those documents.
i guess.

I pick anything that is not do nothing.

Which Toko is Kuchiki again? Either way, I bet that document turns up something juicy.

Kuchiki Toko is 'our' Toko, the femme fatale / stalker / somewhat inappropriate sibling who's latched onto Reiji and won't let go.

Mizuhara Toko is Toko2, who thinks that the only good thing in the world is Toko.

Welcome back to the LP! I was really hoping you'd be able to pick it up again.

I'll vote documents too.

Ask about the documents.

(So, what are those documents she's poking at? Of course, just asking her upfront will only be helpful if she's willing to answer...)

Reiji: "----Were all those documents about Kuchiki-san?"

I should ask about this, since it involves Toko.



Finished with sorting the documents, Nene looks over at me quizzically.

Reiji: "No... I was just curious about what they were."



Well, I certainly don't have any right to intrude, but----



Reiji: "...Well, no, naturally."

Nene: "Are you interested?"

(I suspect what is being suggested here is "Are you trying to get her measurements?" ie, boob size.)

Reiji: "...Nah, forget it."

I get the feeling that she's deliberately leading me on...

(So, all we've learned is that Nene was definitely looking at documents regarding our Toko. But... why?)



I've been warned by the commissioner not to interfere with the dismemberment case. I suppose I'll head over to the MPD later and see if they can't do something about that.

Unexpectedly, Saeki's told me of his relationship with Mamiya Shinzo. I should investigate that a little further----



(Tojiko's sprite starts drifting slowly back and forth across the screen while Reiji muses.)

The logical next step would be to head to Ueno and try asking Stella.

Tojiko: "Hellooo, Senseiiii?"

But given how hard it is to communicate with her...

Tojiko: "Don't ignore meeeee!!!"

Reiji: "Don't bother me when I'm trying to think."

Despite my best efforts, I'm forced to acknowledge Tojiko's presence.

Tojiko: "Uuu, Sensei, you jerk..."

Reiji: "Fine, fine. So, what's up?"



Reiji: "...Nope, I'm not doing anything of the sort."

That's the truth, for the time being.

Tojiko: "Ehhh?!? But whyyy!?"

Reiji: "Well... Somebody important warned me not to."

Also true, for now.



Reiji: "That's beside the point... But tell me, what did you intend to do if I was going to do some investigating, hmm?"

Tojiko: "Well, I'd go with you, of course!"

Reiji: "Denied."

Tojiko: "Ehhh?!? WHYYY!?"

Reiji: "You have to ask?"

Tojiko looks up at me reproachfully; I give her a light poke on the forehead.



Reiji: "I told you I wasn't doing any investigating, didn't I..?"

Tojiko: "So you say, but you are going, aren't you?"

... Oh, whatever.

Reiji: "...Just do what you want."

Tojiko: "Yep, I will."

There shouldn't be any problems taking Tojiko to the art museum with me. I can just send her home afterward. No problem.



Reiji: "...What, there's more?"

Tojiko: "Well, of course. I told you my book's coming out soon, right?"

Reiji: "...That's right, you said something about that."

She still hasn't told me the title, though.



Reiji: "Why me...?"

Tojiko: "Why not? I gave it my best, c'mon."

Reiji: "Don't pull on my arm. Sheesh. ... I'll think about it."



Tojiko grabs my sleeve and swings it around.

Reiji: "...Could you stop that? You're gonna stretch out my clothes..."

Tojiko: "If you take me with you on your investigation, then I'll let go."

Reiji: "How many times do I have to tell you, I'm not investigating anything..."

... with Tojiko.

I'm not exactly sure how it happened, but I ended up paying her fare.

Tojiko: "Thanks, Sensei."

Reiji: "Honestly... You're hopeless."



Reiji: "...If that's a problem, you shouldn't have come!"

Tojiko: "C'mon, it's no big deal."

Reiji: "...My wallet begs to differ."

Well, complaining won't change anything.

Reiji: "The museum has an entrance fee, too..."



Tojiko manages to hold her silence. I spot Stella after a brief survey of the interior.

Reiji: "Heya, Stella."

At the sound of my voice, she tilts her head and takes a long, hard look at my face.



Reiji: "...So you finally remembered me, eh?"

Stella: "...Yep."

(What she actually says, voice-acting-wise, is "Mmm" but with an affirmative tone to it. Which makes sense in Japanese but is hard to get across in written English.)

Reiji: "Do you know anything about an artist named Saeki Tokio?"

Stella: "Saeki... Tokio..."

She looks up at the ceiling for a while, deep in thought. Eventually, she begins to speak, bit by bit, as though gradually remembering.


Stella speaks bluntly, in her customary broken speech.

Reiji: "A power struggle... Was that with Mamiya Shinzo...?"

She nods at my question.

Stella: "Shinzo... Is strong. But, also weak."

Reiji: "What does that mean?"



Tojiko: "...Hey, does she have a few screws loose?"

Tojiko, taking in this exchange, whispers to me surreptitiously.

Reiji: "Nah, she's fine. ---So Stella, do you know anything else?"



Five, six years ago...?

Reiji: "...Was she involved in some trouble? A murder?"

Stella: "...I don't really know."

Reiji: "I see... Thanks."

Five or six years... Would place it during a hotbed of slayings, what with the Rokushiki case and the Ueno murders.

This bears further investigation...



Tojiko: "Where are we going next?"

Reiji: "Next up... We're waiting here for a while."

Tojiko: "Eh? What for?"

Reiji: "Some help I've requested should be arriving soon. ... Ah, here she is."

A familiar person walks toward us from the station.

Tojiko: "Huh? Yukarin?"

I had given her a call when Tojiko wasn't looking.



She narrows her eyes at me.

Reiji: "Sorry about that, Yukari."

Tojiko: "Eh? Ehh?"

Yukari: "Well, let's go, Tsuzuriko."

Tojiko: "Uh, wait, will somebody tell me what's going on...?"

Tojiko looks pleadingly at me, then at Yukari, then back at me again.

Yukari: "We're going to have a party soon, right? We're making preparations."

Tojiko: "Ahh... That's right. But... look, if I don't follow Sensei, then..."

Reiji: "Good luck, Tojiko."

(Tiny animation of Yukari's sprite moving over to Tojiko's, then the two moving off screen together, as if Yukari is dragging her.)

Tojiko: "Aaargh, you traitor...!"

The two of them leave Tojiko clinging to Yukari's sleeve.

Reiji: "----Phew."

Sorry about that, Tojiko, but I can't take a girl where I'm going next.... I have no idea what the people there would say to me if I did.

This forbidding edifice on the corner is my former workplace: the Tokyo Metropolitan Police Department.

There's no way I could have brought Tojiko over here. Several uniformed officers are standing guard around the area.



Detective: "Huh? ... Tokisaka-san, right?"

One of the detectives from last month's case calls out to me.

Reiji: "Is Uozumi around?"

Detective: "No, Sergeant Uozumi's out collecting information at the moment."

Reiji: "---I see. Thanks."

I should have called in advance--

Man's Voice: "---My, my. If it isn't Sempai?"

That grating, sarcastic voice cuts through the air; I turn to meet it, trying to hide my surprise.

Reiji: "----Ah, Commissioner Yaginuma."



Reiji: "I had something I wanted to check out. May I?"

Yaginuma: "If it's about the dismemberment case, nothing has changed since this morning."

Reiji: "Well, that too, but I wanted to look at something regarding a past case."

Yaginuma; "A past case..? Something unrelated to the current problems, correct?"

Reiji: "Yeah, that's right. But it's not related to you, either."

I don't need his permission. My old superior...is no longer here. I wonder if there's anyone here I know from back then---



Reiji: "No need to worry, I won't get in your way."

Yaginuma; "Oh, but you already have. What cases are you going to look over?"

Reiji: "Ones from five or six years ago... Starting with the Rokushiki Case."

Vice-Principal Saeki's daughter was probably caught up in one of the murder cases from back then. I participated in that investigation, but owing to the shock I received at the time, I don't remember any of the finer details.



(... you asshole.)

Reiji: "-Why don't you shut the hell up?"

Fed up with Yaginuma's bullshit, I cut him off.



Yaginuma issues orders to a nearby detective, a sickening smirk on his face.

Reiji: "---Hey, Yaginuma. Let me give you a piece of advice, as your sempai."

Yaginuma; "And what would that be?"

Reiji: "If you fuck around like this at this job, someday it'll come back around and bite you in the ass."



(sadly, 'Punch This Guy In His Smug Face' is not an available option)

I have no great desire to drag this out further.

The detective finally comes back, carrying some documents.

Detective: "This is the data pertaining to the cases back then."

Reiji: "Thanks."

I set them down on the desk, then flip through the documents I had in mind: the victim data.

My eyes pause on Miyama Yukiko's name.

--- Don't need to spend any time here. I know enough about her already.

I flip through the pages.

Reiji: "Saeki Miu... Is this her?"

Died February 3, 1950, the third victim in the Rokushiki Case; Vice-Principal Saeki's second daughter. I knew it--

It's believed that while enrolled at Ouba Girls Academy, she became pregnant with her lover's child and went to see the obstetrician Rokushiki Makoto without consulting her parents----

Now I understand why the Vice-Principal requested that I watch over the students. Though I don't see any connection to Mamiya Shinzo...



Yaginuma makes no effort to hide his impatience.

Reiji: "...In fact, I did---but nothing related to the case at hand."

Yaginuma: "Well, that won't do at all. I'm afraid I'll need you to solve this case by any means necessary, Sempai."

Reiji: "Oh, but didn't you tell me not to interfere?"



Yaginuma flashes me an evil grin.

Yaginuma; "Regardless of circumstances, if the case is solved, all the credit goes to me, the commissioner."

Reiji: "Yeah... You can go ahead and have that."

I don't have any need for glory.

Yaginuma: "Well, now... I look forward to working with you, Sempai."

Yaginuma pats me on the shoulder, that insufferable smirk still on his face.

No sooner do I leave the station than I spot a familiar face. It's Kuchiki Fumiya.

(Toko's uncle the doctor, if you've forgotten. Well, sort-of uncle, given that she's adopted.)

He's looking down at the ground while he walks, clearly deep in thought about something.

Reiji: "---Kuchiki-san."



Fumiya raises his head, surprised.

Reiji: "Strange running into you at a place like this. Taking a break from the clinic?"



Fumiya smiles thinly.

Fumiya: "My hobby is taking walks, but... I'm afraid I don't get enough exercise - it's tiring me out."

Reiji: "Isn't it just your routine that's exhausting?"

Fumiya: "Haha... Well, doctors often neglect their own health."

He looks pretty worn out.

Reiji: "Did something happen?"



(that 'haha' is more of a vocal break, not a fake laugh)

Reiji: "Eh...?"

I might know?



I can guess what he's driving at.

Toko knows that she's been adopted by the Kuchiki family. She probably feels lost and confused, since the people she once held close now look like complete strangers.

...I need to talk about this --- with Fumiya, and with Toko's mother.

Reiji: "Is Toko-san at home right now?"

Fumiya: "No, I'm pretty sure she's out at the moment."

Reiji: "I see. There's something I'd like to talk about. Would it be possible for me to visit your house now?"



I guess Fumiya's sensed something in my words. As he nods, his white face pales even further.



Fumiya: "---I'll be in the clinic. Chizuru should be here shortly."

With that, he departs. I wait in the entrance for a little while.

The trees here haven't taken on their color. It's as if winter still holds sway in this place.



The door to the entrance opens, and Chizuru comes to greet me.

Reiji: "Pardon the intrusion."

After being led to the living room, I take a seat on a cushion. There's coffee and sponge cake set out on the table.



Reiji: "Ah---No, it's no big deal."

Chizuru bows deeply; awkwardly, I rush to do likewise.

I guess Toko's told her about the time we went to Kurashiki.



Reiji: "Right. It's about Toko-san; she consulted me in the past about this. I'm sorry; I'd rather not be this blunt, but... Toko is not actually your child, correct?"



It's not a surprised sound; it feels more like resignation.

Chizuru: "Did she... tell you that herself?"

Reiji: "...Yes. It looks like she found it out on her own by checking the family register."

Chizuru: "...I see."

Chizuru sighs.

Chizuru: "...I knew I couldn't hide it from her..."

Reiji: "You... knew it?"



Chizuru speaks hesitantly, her face gone unnaturally pale.

Chizuru: "...She's grown up so much faster than I'd imagined..."

Reiji: "...She probably detected something in the way you guys acted or spoke. Kids at her age are a great deal more perceptive than we adults take them for."

Chizuru: "...You may be right about that..."

Her words come out sounding thin and strained.



Reiji: "I think... She probably doesn't want you to fuss about her. She's pretty mature in that respect."

Chizuru hangs her head, falling silent.

I bring the coffee to my lips. It tastes like the same kind of beans we use.

Reiji: "---I've done some investigating of my own, but as to where she came from... I'm afraid I don't know that."

Chizuru: "That... I wish I could tell you myself, but we weren't informed either."

Reiji: "You guys weren't informed...?"



Reiji: "...I see."

She could be telling the truth; she could be lying. I have no way of knowing.

...But I think it's best if I don't pry any further. One other question, then, and I'll be on my way.

Reiji: "----Ahh, right. Do you know an artist named Mamiya Shinzo?"



Well, that's what I expected. There's no sign on her face that she's hiding something.

Reiji: "No, it's just that she had shown an interest in him at the art museum a while back."

Chizuru: "She did...?"

Reiji: "I'm sorry to change the subject like this."

Chizuru: "It's fine..."

Reiji: "If you could pretend today's conversation never happened, it'd be a great help. Please, try to treat Toko-san as you always have."



Reiji: "...I don't believe that. Toko accepts you. She just wants to know her past."

Chizuru: "Of course... You're right... It's difficult, though."

Chizuru sighs, and I feel a sudden twinge of guilt. It seems the sum of my investigations is a family thrown into chaos, and nothing more.

Reiji: "...I'm truly sorry; it was none of my business."

All I can do now is apologize.

(Again, different cultural values of adoption and family make this whole sequence a little confusing. One would think that if Toko is clearly upset about her past, it would be sensible for her mother to TALK to her about it, instead of trying to pretend that this conversation never happened and nothing has changed. Is it any wonder Toko feels isolated?)



What should I do now?

(Voting time! Our options are:

Moon World - I don't think we've been here for a while, might be good to check in.

Kuchiki Research Institute - where Kazuna is, and possibly some other patients as well?

Natsume's Hospital - We were just here this morning, she's unlikely to have new information yet, and if we go here she's probably going to try to get our pants off.

Shinjuku Station - An adult acquaintance might be out shopping, perhaps?

Art Museum - We were just here. Stella may be around, but she's unlikely to have new information.

Pick two!)

Moon World and Kuchiki Research Institute?

Sounds good to me.

Think I'll also go with Moon World and Kuchiki Research Institute.

Yep, Moon World and Kuchiki Research Institute seem like the two most likely locations for plot.

(so, picking the first thing off the list, then!)



Kyoko greets me the moment I step into Moon World.

Reiji: "Hey Kyoko, I'd like some coff--"

I trail off in mid-order as I notice a girl seated further in.

--- It's Toko.

She's drinking some coffee and reading a book.



Toko looks up, and our eyes meet.

Reiji: "Fancy running into you here."

Toko: "I'm waiting for somebody."

(and obviously not Reiji.)

Reiji: "I see."

I take a seat at the counter near her. If somebody's coming, it'd be rude to share a table with her.



Reiji: "...I'm not trying to pick her up."

Kyoko: "Toko-chan, you should be careful. Especially around this guy."

Toko: "Oh, I know that quite well."

Reiji: "Whoa, hold on there. Kyoko... You two know each other?"

Kyoko: "Yes, of course. She's one of my regulars."

Ah-ha... That's why the coffee at her house is the same kind that we use.

Toko: "The atmosphere at this cafe is wonderful. I come here all the time."



Reiji: "I met her while on the job. C'mon, give me some coffee already."

Kyoko: "Okay, okay. Enjoy yourself."

Kyoko returns to the counter, chuckling. Sheesh.

Kyoko: (distantly) "Welcome!"

It looks like customers are gradually trickling in.



Toko calls out to the entrance. I follow her gaze.



Mizuhara Toko stops in her tracks, staring at me suspiciously.

Reiji: "Evening, Mizuhara-san. Are you feeling better?"



Somehow, Mizuhara's made her thanks convey a distinct lack of gratitude.



Toko: "Sure."

Toko stands up.

Toko: "We're taking off now, Sensei. See you later."

Reiji: "Okay; you girls be careful."

Mizuhara clings to Toko's arm as they leave the cafe.



Reiji: "That's not it, you idiot."

I grouse at Kyoko as she brings my coffee.

Kyoko: "Hehe..."

Reiji: "...What?"

Kyoko: "Oh, nothing."

Still laughing, she goes back to work.

Good grief... As soon as I'm through this cup, I'm out of here.

Reiji: "Oh---"

I see a familiar face outside the hospital and come to a halt.



Reiji: "Hello, Katsuragi-san. Were you going to the hospital?"

Shin: "No, I was just going for a stroll, since my office is nearby."

Reiji: "Ah, that's right, it's pretty close."

I've dropped by his office before. Like he says, it's not far off.



Reiji: "...You pick up on things pretty quick."

Shin: "I try to stay on top of things happening in our society. ...Are you involved in this case as well, Tokisaka-san?"

Reiji: "...I can't tell you any of the specifics."

I shouldn't be handing out information to strangers.

Shin: "Ahh, I understand. I didn't mean to pry."

Katsuragi smiles softly.


Reiji: "The numbers are actually no higher than in the past. It's just that with newspapers and magazines, there are more ways to catch people's attention."

Policemen and detectives have never lacked for cases to investigate.



Reiji: "...That's true."

Shin: "At any rate, I hope you can solve this one quickly. Good luck."

And with that, Katsuragi leaves.

Let's head elsewhere.

(So despite coming here to see the hospital, Reiji randomly decides not to go in. Oh well.)



(... hmm, again?)




(The middle line is Toko2's, the other two are Toko's.)



(... um, Toko2? Are you *sure* you're not gay for her? Really, truly sure?)



Things can't go on like this.

If things go on like this, Toko and I will shift out of alignment.

If things go on like this... I can't become Toko.





Toko2: "----Hey, Toko."

Toko: "What is it?"

Toko2: "Do you like Tokisaka-sensei, Toko?"

--- I said it.



Toko: "...Toko, Tokisaka-sensei and I don't have that kind of relationship."

Toko murmurs softly.

Toko2: "So do you hate him, then?"

Toko: "...It's not that."

---She denied it.



Toko2: "...I don't get it."

Toko's trying to hide it from me. Her heart's already been swayed toward that man. She's just accompanying me out of a sense of duty.

Toko2: "If you keep this up... You're going to change, Toko!"

Toko: "...Toko?"

I can't endure it any longer.

Toko2: "Things can't go on like this! You don't understand how I feel toward you, Toko!"

I shake off her hand.



(... um, anyone getting bad vibes about this?)

(so, back to Reiji)



(image 1600)

Yukari: "---Nii-san, do you have a minute?"

Reiji: "What's up, Yukari?"

I stub out my cigarette.



Reiji: "Yeah, that's right. Is there a problem?"

Yukari: "I intend to hold it here. Is that okay with you?"

(Of course we have to have all the schoolgirls come over to our house.)

Reiji: "I don't mind. Other people will come too, right?"

Yukari: "Yep---That's the plan."

Reiji: "Well, you can't be imposing on someone else's hospitality. If you girls are going to make noise, then you might as well do it here."



Yukari smiles.



There's a feature about yesterday's incident, but it's pretty small. All it says is that another dismembered body has been discovered.

The fact that it was found at Ouba Girls Academy is not mentioned, to say nothing of the fact that it was stuffed into eggs.

I guess they're going out of their way to keep the public in the dark. It must be due to Saeki's efforts. I suppose he wants to protect the students. He doesn't want them to suffer the same way his daughter did.

Well... I feel the same. Tomorrow I'll go to the academy again and talk to Saeki about what I've discovered.

I want to apologize about what I've pried into. It's not like anything's come of it; I just want to set things straight.



(I was a bit late grabbing the datestamp, so it's already fading out. Just wanted to show the moon/tide info.)



It looks like she's gone to see a movie with Tojiko. And in Shinjuku, no less...

For now, let's head to the academy.



Saeki: "Oh, Tokisaka-sensei. Good morning."

Reiji: "Good morning, Vice-Principal... Could I have a word with you?"



Reiji: "...You're right."

Saeki leads me over to the empty faculty room.

Reiji: "...Sorry to drag you up here like this."



Reiji: "Yeah... The truth is, I've come to apologize to you, Vice-Principal."

Saeki: "Why's that?"

Reiji: "...These last few days, I've been investigating your connection to Mamiya Shinzo. ... It's not related to the case at hand."

Saeki: "...I see."

Reiji: "In the process... I discovered that your daughter had passed away..."

Saeki: "...Yes, that's correct. It's not something I like to think about."

Reiji: "I feel the same way. I lost my fiance in the same case that claimed your daughter."

Saeki hangs his head upon hearing my words.

Reiji: "...I offer my sincerest apologies."

I face Saeki and bow.



Saeki lays a hand on my shoulder.

Saeki: "It couldn't be kept hidden. Truth be told, I had no reason to hide it in the first place."

Reiji: "...I'm sorry, Saeki-sensei."

For a while, all I can do is apologize, over and over.

Browsing the vendors' stalls in front of the station, I notice a wide selection of trinkets and knickknacks.

---Come to think of it, Tojiko had asked me to give her something.

But I'll be frank... I have no idea what a girl her age would like. Even if I used Yukari as an example, no normal girl would enjoy something like a scarab beetle brooch...

I'll just have to look around here and pick something up...



Reiji: "Oh, hello there Sato-san. Doing some shopping?"

Ayumu: "Yeah----I was looking for a hairclip."

Reiji: "A hairclip, huh..."

Her hair is cut short, but I suppose she's at around that age.



Ayumu points toward an antiques store that deals in various swords and bladed weapons.

Reiji: "Hahaha... Well, don't you like that sort of thing?"

Ayumu: "Well, I'm not going to lie to you. ... But what are you doing here, Sensei?"

Reiji: "Just... shopping. I promised to give someone a present."



Reiji: "Nah, not her----Ah, hell..."

I guess I'll ask her for advice.

Reiji: "What do you think I should give to Tojiko --- I mean, Yosomiya-san?"

Ayumu: "Yosomiya-senpai... That's a tricky one."

Pondering my question, Ayumu looks over the wares on display.

Reiji: "I'm an instructor, so I can't be giving her something flashy that'll attract attention---"

And at that moment, I spot an assortment of rings.

(Dear Reiji - I don't know about Japan, but in my culture, a male teacher giving a teenage girl a RING is pretty much the worst possible set of implications...)

At around 5-10 yen each, they're not that expensive.

(... even if it is a dime store ring.)

Reiji: "You think something like this'll shut her up?"



Reiji: "Hmm..."

I guess I'll go with this.

I offer my palm to Ayumu.

Ayumu: "What?"

Reiji: "You're going to buy a hairclip, right? I'll get it for you when I buy the ring."

Ayumu: "No, I can---"

Reiji: "Oh, don't worry about it. Consider it a thank-you for the advice."



Ayumu holds out a hairclip with a small flower decoration on it. I take it and hand both items to the old man who runs the stall.

Reiji: "Sir, package these separately, please."



(The merchant's voice is old, slow, and raspy. It really jumps out at you.)

Reiji: "Here you go, Sato-san."

I hand her the bag with the hairclip inside.



(Is this the first time we've seen Ayumu smile?)

Ayumu bows.

With any luck, this will get Tojiko off my back.

I know I'm a bit late to the welcoming back party, but just know that I love you and all the effort you put into this LP for us.
Okay?

Okay.








Reiji, who on earth told you that a ring is a good id-- waiiiiiit.
....Well, she's not wrong when she says Tojiko will probably be happy with it. Getting her off his back, however....

I spot Dr. Saito by the entrance and call out to him.

Reiji: "Good morning, Dr. Saito."



Reiji: "Taking a break?"

Saito: "Yeah, I felt like changing things up a bit."

Reiji: "Sounds like you have it pretty rough."



Saito laughs.

Reiji: "How's Takashiro-san's condition?"

Saito: "Well... I think things will take a little more time."

The tone of Saito's voice falls as he says it.

Reiji: "I see... Has there been no change?"



Reiji: "That can actually happen?"

Saito: "Yes. I think she knows instinctively that she's lost her uterus and her child, even without being conscious of it. All we can do now is wait."

Reiji: "This is unbearable..."

Saito nods, but adds nothing.

Reiji: "Come to think of it, Dr. Saito, why did you set out to become a psychologist?"

The question occurs to me suddenly.



Saito chuckles merrily.

Saito: "I come from an old family of doctors, so I received the training from a young age."

Saito seems to be enjoying himself as he recalls the past.

Saito: "I was brought into the medical field and acquired all sorts of knowledge. ... In the end, I wasn't sure what my specialty should be."

He scoffs.



Reiji: "I see..."

I guess it's true what they say - everyone really does have a story to tell.



(If you've forgotten, the old guy is Toko's adoptive grandfather.)

Dr. Kuchiki's come out of the hospital; I suppose he spotted me outside.

Reiji: "Hello, Dr. Kuchiki."

Dr. K: "Did something happen?"

Reiji: "No, I was just passing by. I saw Dr. Saito and thought I'd say hello."

Dr. K: "I see. Why don't you come inside then?"

Saito: "Absolutely; I apologize, Tokisaka-san. How about some tea inside?"

Reiji: "Nah, I still have some other business to take care of, so if you'll excuse me, I'll be taking off."

I hadn't planned on spending a lot of time here.

Reiji: "I'll see you gentlemen another time."

///



Shugo: "Yeah.... Tokisaka?"

Takashiro's sitting in a chair, looking over some documents.

Reiji: "So you finally felt like doing some work, eh?"



It looks like he's improved considerably.

Shugo: "I've gotta get myself together for whenever Kazuna comes back to us."

Reiji: "Exactly. ---If there's anything that I can help you out with, feel free to call me anytime."



Reiji: "I see. Give it your best shot, man."

Shugo: "I don't need you to tell me that."

Shugo laughs weakly.

We're talking about a guy who's seen bloodshed I can only imagine. I'm sure he'll be all right.

Shugo: "...Sorry about all the trouble I caused you."

Reiji: "Hell, don't worry about it. The most important thing is for you and Kazuna-san to get better."

Shugo: "...Yeah."

Shugo's voice is soft, but he nods resolutely all the same.

///



Well, now what shall I -

Voice: "Ooooo, it's Sensei!"

(A little joke there, since the game looks like it's about to give you a movement choice, and then suddenly snaps it away.)

... From the throng outside the station comes a voice I know. When I look, I see Tojiko and Yukari coming toward me.

Reiji: "The movie's over already?"



Tojiko: "Hey, hey, are you in the middle of an investigation, Sensei?"

Reiji: "...Nope."

My gut tells me that I won't like where this is going. Best to shut her down now, before she can build up steam.



Reiji: "Nah, I'm going to stop by my office for a moment--"

Tojiko: "Then can you take me with you?"

Reiji: "...Why?"



Where could she possibly have gotten that idea?



Yukari strikes the finishing blow.

Yukari: "I cleaned up your office the other day. I don't see anything wrong with bringing Tsuzuriko with you for a little bit."

Tojiko: "That's right, you tell him, Yukarin!"

Reiji: "Oh come on, you two..."



... I'm at a loss for words.

Tojiko: "It's best if you just give in."

Reiji: "...It's hard for me to accept that when it comes from you..."

Yukari: "Well, Tsuzuriko, I'm leaving my brother in your hands."

Tojiko: "Yep, I'll take good care of him."

Reiji: "Yukari, you're going home?"

Yukari: "Yeah, I have something I need to do there. Well, see you guys later."

Yukari turns around and heads toward the station.



Tojiko yanks on my arm.

Sheesh... I guess I have no choice but to go along with it.

I'm not sure what to make of Tojiko's enthusiasm.

Reiji: "It's just a normal office. The city's full of 'em."

Tojiko: "Oo, look at how many books you have! Are these all on criminology?"

Reiji: "...Nope, they're literature anthologies and encyclopedias."



(rats, I screecapped too late to grab the animated sweatdrop)

Reiji: "The library at home got crowded, so I brought them over here..."



Reiji: "...What exactly were you expecting, anyway?"

Tojiko: "You don't have any secret tools or anything? Y'know, the kind of stuff Akechi Kogoro uses."

(Famous Japanese fictional detective and master of disguise. I have no idea what 'special tools' he uses though.)

Reiji: "...You've been reading too many novels."

I sit down in a chair and put the paper bag I'd been carrying on the table.

Tojiko: "What's that?"

Reiji: "You told me to give you something yesterday, right?"



Reiji: "Oh, was that all? Then I won't give it to you."



Tojiko picks it up, pouting.



Reiji: "...Go ahead."

By the time I nod my assent, she's already broken the seal.

Tojiko: "What's this... A ring?"

Tojiko peers at it intently.

Reiji: "You don't like it?"



After holding the ring up and scrutinizing it, she slowly puts it on the ring finger of her left hand.

Reiji: "Whoa, hold it there Tojiko; that's the wrong finger."



Reiji: "No, it isn't. In Europe and America, the ring finger of the left hand is reserved for wedding rings."

Tojiko: "Ahh... So that's how it is. But it's a perfect fit."

Reiji: "At least put it on your right hand, then."

Tojiko: "All right.... Argh, it's kinda tight."

Reiji: "Don't force it on."





Reiji: "... Let me just say this: it was cheap."

Tojiko: "Well, it'd be awkward if you gave me something expensive."

Tojiko: "...huh?"

Reiji: "What's wrong?"


Tojiko mumbles half to herself as she tugs on the ring.

Reiji: "...Didn't I say not to force it?"

I have a go at it too, but it's firmly stuck and won't budge.



Reiji: "...This isn't going to work."

Tojiko: "Ehhhh!? Th-then, what do I do about this?!?"

Reiji: "Well, all you can do is try putting some soapy water on it when you get home."

Tojiko: "Uuuuu? ... You gotta be kiddin' me..."

Reiji: "C'mon, don't give me that pathetic tone of voice. ... So, have you had your fill of my detective's office?"

It's dark outside.



Reiji: "...I could have told you that before and saved you a trip."

I would never trust a job to a detective with an 'interesting' office.

Tojiko: "Hmmmm.... Well, whatever."

Reiji: "I'm going home as well, so I'll escort you back."





It looks like Tojiko's going to catch the bus home from here.

Tojiko: "----You know, I really wanted an older brother."

She brings it up out of the blue while we're waiting at the bus stop.



Reiji: "...I'm not exactly a shining example of an older brother."

Tojiko: "Yeah, I know."

Reiji: "...It's called modesty; you're not supposed to agree with me! What weird ideas has Yukari been filling your head with?"



Reiji: "I don't know if I like the way that sounds..."

Tojiko: "But you know, I had a lot of fun when I was helping you out."

Reiji: "Helping? You did nothing of the sort."

Tojiko: "I helped you investigate the Black Madonna, right?"

Reiji: "Ahh- That."

I hadn't thought of her as helping, but----



(For those few of you who will care, she says 'aniki' here, not 'onii-chan')

Tojiko laughs.

Well, for better or for worse, she is a girl with a pure heart.

Tojiko: "Was I a bother to you?"

Reiji: "Not at all. The information I got from you was a big help."

Tojiko: "Really? ... Hehe, awesome."

The bus has arrived.

Tojiko: "--- Hey, Sensei!"

Reiji: "...What is it?"

Tojiko spins around, one foot inside the bus.



Reiji: "...Please, don't be too hard on me."

Tojiko: "Hehe. Seeya later, Sensei."

The door closes, and the bus leaves, puffing exhaust fumes.

---- Guess I'll head home as well.

(Missed a line here due to game lagging weirdly - I believe it was something like the air being stifling in the morning.)



Reiji: "Yeah. Morning, Yukari."

Yukari: "Please get up soon. It's hot today, so I'd like to air out the futons."

Reiji: "...Can I sleep a little longer?"



No hesitation there; looks like I have no choice.

Well, what should I do today...

(and again this is fake, no choice)

For the time being, I guess I'll head over to Moon World.

Reiji: "Yukari, I'm heading out for a bit."



///


It's not even noon yet, but I still managed to hit the shopping rush.

I spot a familiar face amongst the crowd.

Reiji: "That's... Dr. Murase, right?"

(We haven't seen him in a while, so I'll refresh:)



(This guy)

Murase, from the Kuchiki Pathological Research Institute, is walking quickly toward the station.



(And now you have options!)

Call out to him. I don't think ignoring him would have any benefits, and he seems scuzzy enough to dismember young girls...

...And we're no young girl, so we're probably safe. Probably. GRILL HIM.