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alias_sqbrMasterlist and guide
Just when I was worried I might be done with this game, along comes the weird, wonderful CSI Shiraishi with EXACTLY the kind of BATSHIT CRAZY ROLLER COASTER I love from Otomate. He's not GOOD for Ichika but it is a lot of fun watching him be terrible :D
But it's a lot! And I'm not even done!
Content note: Violence, brief mention of sexual assault of minor characters, suicide as a major and repeated theme, poor treatment of mental illness, child harm
Walkthrough writer: "I highly recommend playing Shiraishi’s route 4th or before unlocking Yanagi’s. Trust me! This one’s a roller coaster and contains a lot of spoilers, so brace yourself!"
Ok then!
Ichika says she was surprised someone with cat themed hairclips and tie pin is a supervisor.
Shiraishi: I'm a big cat fan. Don't you love their directness?
Ichika: Yes! They're so cute!
Shiraishi: I tried raising some but I don't have time with my job. Guess I'll just have to quit my job...
Ichika: uh
Shiraishi: You remind me of a cat. You say how you feel and don't care how people react.
Ichika: Actually I-
Shiraishi: Keep that up, you can be totally free with me. No need for formality or titles.
Ichika: That's probably not-
Shiraishi: Well, it's what I'd like :)
Ok let's go back over the September and October incidents since Shiraishi is investigating them.
The Adonis video talks about justice against those who create despair and a sense of uselessness. The voice is a little theatrical.
On September 7, Ken Hachisuka was found hanged. He was found by his girlfriend.
Police suspected a man called Yuki Sunamori, who went to the same free school, and had fingerprints at the scene. He had an Adonis coin, and claimed to be a 'chosen one'.
On October 7, a video is uploaded with a dreamy creepy voice about not feeling needed in the world. The next day, Sunamori killed himself.
The dolls in the videos look kinda like the weird boy and weird girl respectively.
Yeah I can see how this appeals to Shiraishi's interest in the odd!
OOOH and the thing Ichika says to Sakuragawa this time "I think there's a leak in the police station". She's aware that Sakuragawa herself could be a mole, and that Ichika herself is one in effect. Maybe she's not even the only police officer with this kind of collar.
Ooh and the scene did NOT end with being dragged off to deal with the game dev being murdered.
Ahaha that's right. Ichika's reason for wanting to work with Shiraishi is she thinks he's shady and wants to keep an eye on him: he has access to both the police and the detective agency, and gives off a callous, weird air. Given how hard he is to read, she decides to start by talking to Mukai.
CHAPTER ONE
OH WOW that was SURE A CREEPY LOOKING IMAGE OF SHIRAISHI in the chapter title screen o.O He was half covering one eye, which looked WIDE AND CRAZY, and had a VERY CREEPY SMILE.
The game dev murder still happened, Ichika just happened not to be around for it.
She stumbles across Shiarishi talking to Mukai about the mentality of serial killers: they have had some of critical failure, and project that despair onto others, feeling justified in killing the 'enemy'. Once they have achieved catharsis they often kill themselves or ask for the death penalty. Adonis is probably run by a charismatic leader who sees themself as entirely justified.
"Japanese people have a reputation for being law-abiding, decent people. But those perceptions are being turned upside down."
Seeing Shiraishi dispassionately analyse Adonis the way he does everything else, Ichika decides he probably isn't a member. So if someone else gave him the letter from Adonis, was it to make him look suspicious? Someone who hates him?
SOMEONE LIKE MUKAI???
IS ZERO A WOMAN????
THEY HAVE POINTY CHINS AND SLIGHT FIGURES!!
Though Mukai would have only been 17 ten years ago, and she seems like too much of a comic relief character, with the wrong personality. It was a fun moment of vertigo to suspect her though!
Ahaha but just from watching her reactions to the conversation Shiraishi has figured out that Ichika is here to probe Mukai about him maybe being the mole.
Ichika: *twitches*
Shiraishi: You really are stupidly honest. Almost naive. You'd be such an easy mark to con. Oh, have you been conned in the past? Did I rub salt in an old wound? :D
Mukai: Director that is not how you talk to a woman. Hoshino, noone would blame you if you felt the urge to bash him over the head with a blunt object :)
Shiraishi: I don't think there's anyone who wants me to kill me as much as you, Mukai :)
Mukai: Thank you, sir :)
Shiraishi: I was the one who scouted Mukai you know. She may not look it but she's pretty smart. Heck, she'd be perfect if she wasn't such a shrew :)
Mukai: Director. The 'may not look it' and 'shrew' were entirely unnecessary.
Shiraishi: Are you trying to pretend you're nice? :)
Mukai: Are you picking a fight with me? Because this volume looks perfect for bludgeoning :)
Ichika, worried by the complete lack of humour in her expression: Um. I think he was saying you're skilled and he trusts you??
Mukai: My apologies, Ms Hoshino, I let my temper get the better of me.
Shiraishi: I guess it's kind of obvious but Mukai hates my guts.
Ichika: I must say you probably earned it.
Mukai: Just look at how he dresses! He is indifferent to everyone else's opinions. No wonder everyone hates him. Aggravatingly, he's solved an enormous number of cases with his accurate profiling, including the assassination attempt by Adonis on the Prime Minister two years ago.
Mukai makes a reference to inviting Ichika to join 'a coalition', then leaves.
Shiraishi leans close to Ichika, wondering why Adonis is so interested in someone so lacking in talent or ability. When she says she wants to find the mole he laughs and says that's impossible given that all her emotions show up on her face. She silently wishes she had Mukai's ability to tell him to get lost, but reiterates her determination.
He offers a deal. She does the boring legwork and witness statements to help him investigate the September and October cases, and he uses his profiling skills and access to help look for the mole. She reluctantly agrees.
Shiraishi: Great! Now I don't need to figure out how to con you into it. And I get to observe you, too :)
The dudes at the detective agency are all surprised Shiraishi is actually taking an interest in something and Yanagi wishes Ichika luck.
As she's walking home, Shiraishi follows behind her at an uncomfortable distance, saying he's going in the same direction. And then, in an abandoned alley, he reaches into his coat for...a cat toy, to play with local strays he has named No. 1 and No. 2. He picks one up and cheerfully tells it it's getting fat with a soft smile on his face. He says he's up to No. 37 at this point.
Shiraishi: I bet it would be amazing to live as a stray cat, lazy and free. Though there's the uncertainty of knowing you could die at any time.
His ever present smile slides off his face.
Ichika: Um. You seem to live pretty freely to me.
Shiraishi: I do? :)
WHY DID THE CAT TOY GET ADDED TO THE MURDER MYSTERY MATERIALS
He says he's going off towards his house now, and Ichika feels bad for suspecting him, but then he smiles creepily and tells her to be careful going home and she finds herself so freaked out she runs all the way home.
Shiraishi POV
Shiraishi: You ran away when you first met me too, No. 1. I'd never seen a live cat before, so I tried chasing you...
DID HE GROW UP IN A LAB OR SOMETHING
And then he gets a call from MIKUNI, the creepy Adonis priest politician son of the Prime Minister!! At least I'm like 90% sure it's him from the Saito-ish voice.
Mikuni?: It's been three months since the weapons law was repealed. So far nothing has changed.
Shiraishi: That's within our predictions. But it is true we're running out of time. At this rate, X-Day will arrive.
Mituni?: Now that you've observed her, what are your thoughts?
Shiraishi: She's a totally normal girl. I don't see any signs of her sympathising with Adonis.
Mituni?: Then why was she chosen?
Shiraishi: Who knows? I'll look into that since I have time. You go back to worrying about your own job.
Mituni?: Do you think I can do it?
Shiraishi: You're the only one who can.
Mituni?: True. I will have to make my decision soon. I wish I could be like you and just discard everything unnecessary.
Shiraishi: Do you have any logical reason you can't?
Mukai: ...Please let me know when she makes a move. *hangs up*
Shiraishi, to himself: We've known each other how long yet you still won't tell me anything at all. But he's right, I wouldn't be agonising over it like this. Though I do want to support him, and the world he wants to create.
He gets another call from a restricted number, and makes a sound of surprise, then thinks "I don't think I can help him make the world he wants. I have my own job to do."
????????
I HAVE NO IDEA WHAT'S HAPPENING, but for my own enjoyment, am going to assume aliens until proven otherwise. Or maybe like...Cafe Enchante style angels.
(Or he could...just be in Adonis...BUT NO. ANGELS)
Unknown Adonis POV
"Everyone, at some point, wishes to acquire power to rule over the weak. The rulers appear 'evil' but imposing rules creates order. Order allows for the birth of salvation. Someone has to do it, no matter how much suffering it creates. No matter how much grief they have to bear."
Please please game do not try to make me sympathise with fascists.
The burned stalker murder happens and Ichika's department is swamped with calls.
Shiraishi comes over during her lunch break with notes on the September and October cases.
Shiraishi: That's one kiddy lunch box. You cut the sausages into octopi and the apples into rabbits :D
Ichika: Presentation is part of the enjoyment :/
He sits himself next to her and starts asking about her friends and interests, 'collecting information'.
Ichika: So you suspect me.
Shiraishi: And you suspect me. Fair's fair. It's wise to be so guarded but I'd advice against trying to lie :)
So I don't! He is surprised and charmed by her honesty.
Reading Shiraishi's notes, she finds a hand-written side-note: "Who is the real killer?"
The victim Hachisuka was the son of a famous actress, which made it hard for him at regular highschool, so he went to a 'free school', which the dictionary tells me is a school for those who cannot attend regular school due to behavioural issues. He was popular and well behaved.
Also WTF is up with this dictionary. This page, page 6, has "??, Disabled, Hacking, Groupies, ??, Soldiers Value Swiftness, ??, Free School,..." which are all over the place in terms of theme, first letter, what route they showed up on...is it JAPANESE alphabetical order?? Pages 8 and 10 are empty but not page 9?
Anyway. The supposed murderer, Sunamori, was a bully from a young age, and continued to cause problems even when forced to go to a free school.
At the time of his arrest, Sunamori said "I was chosen by Adonis. Noone ordered me to do it. I didn't hate him, I just felt like killing him".
They were friends at school, with Hachisuka defending Sunamori when he got into trouble, but hadn't seen each other in ten years.
Hand written questions: What is the message Adonis wants to send? Why did Sunamori commit suicide? What did the October video really mean?
Ichika feels like these questions are directed at her.
Mochida: Is that an X-Day report? ARE YOU INVESTIGATING TOO??
Ichika: You always were envious of units who get to do investigation.
Mochida: Well what cop wouldn't be!
Mochida hadn't considered that Sunamori might not be the real killer before, but agrees that even the interrogators thought he might be too emotionally unstable to have planned such an elaborate murder. Someone from Adonis could have planned it for him but he didn't seem to actually know much about the organisation.
They discuss that there may have been an unknown murder in October but I'm waiting for someone to suggest that Sunamori himself is the October murder victim. Ichika hasn't even thought to suspect Mukai yet! (EDIT: Noone ever suspects Mukai)
Their original homeroom teacher, Satomi Takeuchi, quit for 'personal reasons'. Mochida comes up with an excuse for Ichika to visit the area, bless.
Shiraishi insists on coming too, and Ichika tells Mochida he's helping with her investigations. Mochida cheerfully says he'd heard of the guy from forensics with the cat accessories, Shiraishi says he's cut them down and it seems like everyone in the SRCPO is the bluntly honest, nice guy type.
Mochida: You think I'm nice? :D But thank you for helping Hoshino!
Shiraishi: Oh, is that your name?
Shiraishi says it's his policy not to waste brain space on things he doesn't need, like her name. He's only at Shinjuku temporarily and they won't see each other again once the case is solved.
Ichika: We're working together. Remember my name >:(
She vows to herself that she'll MAKE him remember it. I like this dynamic, I was worried he'd walk all over her, and he kinda does, but she keeps her dignity.
Haha and then she tells him to let her do the talking because he's so bad with people. He's fine with it since he's just here to observe her.
The teacher Takeuchi says she's already told the police everything she knows but Ichika persuades her to talk.
She looks...like a sad brunette adult version of the two sad brunette siblings...
I had a moment of DID SHE GET PREGNANT TO ONE OF THE STUDENTS but it was only 10 years ago and Ichika described the siblings as highschool aged.
She says Sunamori caused trouble, but Hachisuka made sure no one child was singled out for extreme bullying. Hachisuka was a good child.
Shiraishi: You sound like you're trying to convince yourself.
Ichika: DID I NOT TELL YOU TO STAY QUIET
Shiraishi: Sorry, couldn't help it. You were afraid of him, weren't you? Let me guess, he bullied you into quitting. He's dead, and I'm in a hurry, so tell the truth.
Takeuchi: I would have stopped him if I could! *runs off and slams door*
Ichika is pissed at his callousness but Shiraishi is just happy they made such an effective good cop bad cop team, and says she should learn his rapid-fire interrogation technique.
Shiraishi: I don't let my conscience get in the way when I don't want it to. Aren't you being overly empathetic to a stranger?
Ichika: I understand that an officer must be objective but that's no reason to cause unnecessary pain. Couldn't we have gotten the information once we gained her trust?
Shiraishi: We don't have time to take the long way. Sacrifices have to be made.
She is NOT a fan of that philosophy and he mockingly calls her a knight in shining armour. She says she's going to interview witnesses without him from now on. He says he doesn't understand having ideals like her, but that makes him want to figure her out.
That night Ichika is invited to dinner with the 'Coalition' and has visions of meeting top brass in secret smoky rooms...but it's just Mukai and Sakuragawa, forming the "Shiraishi Bashing Coalition" or SBC. Ichika is surprised to see Mukai into drinking sake and eating trashy snacks in a dive bar.
Mukai: The coalition has many sympathisers but sadly noone else agreed to join.
Sakuragawa: Our main activity is getting drunk and dunking on Shiraishi. You interested?
Ichika: Sign me up. I had an incident today that made me realise we would never get along.
Sakuragawa: Nobody on the planet can get along with him.
Mukai: Today he left in the middle of the day, saddling me with a pile of work, saying he had a cat he was worried about!
Ichika: *cough* So. Why do you hate Shiraishi, Sakuragawa?
She got to know Mukai at crime scenes, and started visiting her office. And then Shiraishi said he had meat for her but it was FAKE MEAT made of NATTO, which he KNEW was her least favourite food, because he wanted to see her normally stoic facade crumble.
Sakuragawa: He is now a sworn enemy until I die. And even though we work together he still forgets my name!
Ichika: ME TOO
Mukai: He remembers MY name because I taped a massive poster of it to his desk and make him read it every morning. If necessary, I recommend a slap or kick :)
Ichika: You're...a very strong woman...
Sakuragawa: Since he's handsome he gets new girls giving him chocolate, but just openly throws it away.
Ichika: He may be handsome but it's what's inside that counts!
Enomoto: Ha!
Shiraishi: Shh, things are about to get interesting. Don't mind us, ladies :)
Sakuragawa and Ichika: D:
Mukai: Oh. Director. Shamelessly eavesdropping on a lady's conversation...you haven't a shred of dignity :)
Shiraishi: You're a lady? As far as I know ladies don't try to burn their superiors :)
Yanagi: That's enough Shiraishi.
Enomoto: Yeah, can you really blame them? Though, a bashing club? Women are scary...
Mukai: I see the Director's associates are as vexing as he is.
Enomoto: ACTUALLY IT HAS A NICE RING TO IT D:
Shiraishi: So you want to bash me too? :)
Enomoto: THAT WAS A JOKE D:
Mukai: An unfunny one. As an apology, you should perform a trick.
Shiraishi: Ooh, I like that idea. Enomoto, explode :D
Enomoto: D: D:
Sasazuka: Shut up, we have work to do *kicks Enomoto*
Mukai: Yes! Keep it up! :D
Mukai you may be more like Shiraishi than you want to admit.
Ichika, moving away from Mukai and towards Yanagi: Um, sorry about this, sir.
Yanagi: Shiraishi said we should come to this bar to hear an 'interesting conversation' :/
Shiraishi, sitting next to her: And now I have a very clear idea what you think of me ^_^
In her awkwardness, she throws back Shiraishi's strong drink, and is immediately blackout drunk.
She wakes...with her head on his lap and him patting her hair??
Shiraishi: Don't worry, I'll get you home safe and sound ;)
Ichika: THAT'S FINE I'LL GO WITH SAKURAGAWA OR MUKAI
Shiraishi: The other woman took Mukai home. She has a bad habit of glomping onto strangers when she's drunk, you see. Let me tell you a funny story, that other woman tried to take you home, opening the top button of your shirt to let you breathe.
Me: o.O
Shiraishi: I said I'd take care of you, otherwise she might have seen your collar.
Me: Ohhhhh *still thinks Sakuragawa is a lesbian*
Shiraishi: Mukai didn't like the sound of that so I asked if she wanted to see the mark I left on your neck that badly :)
Ichika: The WHAT
Shiraishi: Now you're pouting. You really do hate me :)
She gets a drunken call from Saeki asking if she wants to keep him company drinking, he's glad for her when she says she just got back from a ladies night.
Shiraishi POV
Shiraishi: I know you're enjoying a moment of melancholy but would you mind if I interrupt?
Yanagi: Would you go away if I said I did?
Shiraishi: Heh. So. Having to be protective of a drunk girl is exhausting.
Yanagi: Whatever. Do you think Hoshino checks out?
Shiraishi: Pure as the driven snow. And so stupid!
Yanagi: You look like you're having fun. I was surprised you've taken an interest.
Shiraishi: If I left her be she might get herself killed. Though I almost want to experiment to see if the guy who collared her would actually do it.
Yanagi: Shiraishi >:(
Shiraishi: I said almost! I'm going out of my way to look after her.
Yanagi: After what I heard about the stunt you pulled during that questioning, I doubt that.
Shiraishi: I just took a page from her book and expressed my honest opinion. You think I should have buttered her up?
Yanagi: You can figure that out yourself.
Shiraishi: Aww but I don't wanna. You think for me.
Yanagi: I may have to deal with you, but I don't have to like it, and I don't have to go that far for you.
Shiraishi: You know, Yanagi, you're cold too, but people actually like you, even the little cat. I wonder what the difference is.
Yanagi: ...did you not notice that entire conversation about why people hate you...
Shiraishi: It's not relevant. But changing my behaviour to her might change her reactions, like if I gave her gifts...
Yanagi: Nothing weird >:(
Shiraishi: Appropriate things. After all, I can't keep fooling around forever.
The next morning Ichika arrives to find a box of fancy pastries from Shiraishi on her desk and is DEEPLY DUBIOUS.
Mochida comes with her to apologise to Takeuchi but she just tells them to go away. They're approached by an old lady Ichika has helped in the past, who cheerfully rambles about how Takeuchi was a bundle of nerves in September, just like she was after she quit the school. Ichika wants to help Takeuchi work through whatever is bothering her, and Mochida has faith in her ability to gain people's trust.
Haha oh nooo the next day Mukai and Sakuragawa take Ichika to an interrogation room and demand to know if she has BETRAYED THE TRUST OF THE SHIRAISHI BASHING COMMITTEE by DATING SHIRAISHI. There is a spectacular CG of the two of them leaning over her and peppering her with sharp questions like the hard-bitten cops they are, I hope I can figure out how to show you all (assuming anyone actually reads this far lol)
*takes a photo of the TV with my damn phone like a barbarian*
(I never realised quite how terrible Ichika's haircut is before. A short bob over butt-length strands, why)
Ichika denies it but then is unable to show them her neck, or explain why the usually indifferent Shiraishi is giving her gifts. Her only explanation is that he wants to mess with her, which they both find convincing. Sakuragawa is sympathetic and Mukai uses her skills as a profiler to reaffirm her faith in Ichika's hatred.
Sakuragawa: But now we know Shiraishi is sweet on her. That's a nice tidbit of dirt :D
Mukai: You will of course cooperate with us. Your first mission is to expose embarrassing details about his private life :)
Ichika doubts the ethics and wisdom of this but decides she has to thank him for the pastries anyway. He seems genuinely surprised and happy that she went to so much trouble and doesn't totally hate him. When she tries to leave Mukai comes in and pushes her back in and tells Shiraishi that Ichika want to know him better. Yeah that'll totally fool him, Mukai.
Shiraishi: Well isn't that nice :)
Mukai: Why not invite her to your house and have her cook you dinner? :)
Shiraishi: Sure. What a great way to get closer :)
Ichika: ...Yeah :(
MUKAI. BE MEAN TO SHIRAISHI ALL YOU WANT BUT DON'T PRESSURE ICHIKA TO GO HOME WITH WEIRD MEN >:(
Once they're out of the building Shiraishi says he doesn't expect her to actually go through with it, but she is determined. She feels like he is maybe trying to be nice, in his way, but still finds him impossible to read.
Shiraishi, watching her struggle: Do you want me to carry some of the grocery bags? Isn't that standard for the man in this situation?
Ichika: Not always. And many men will pick up the bags without being asked. Not everything follows the standard procedure.
Shiraishi: I do love outliers :)
He lives in a nice modern condo and says she is her first visitor. Noone else has ever asked.
Just as she's wondering how to find any dirt he says "My observation is compromising the authenticity of your behaviour", and leaves the room. She decides to think of looking around his place as 'getting to know him better'.
CRIME SCENE INVESTIGATION TIME :D
She finds...cat photos. Statistics books. And the same book of romantic confessions she saw on Enomoto's desk, which she assumes is for a prank. Probably.
When he catches her looking under the bed she admits that Mukai put her up to it. Of course he knew, and finds it all hilarious.
But then his expression gets serious and he says she clearly lacks a sense of caution. He pins her to the wall and idly wonders how much he can do to her before Adonis interferes.
He says a BUNCH OF CREEPY SHIT about how he has complete control over her and how she's far too innocent when the world is full of people who won't flinch before harming others. He briefly does the 'what do you expect going alone into a man's room' thing but mostly focusses on how easy it would be to murder her which is...better??
Ichika: We're partners. I thought you got me that gift to try and meet me halfway :(
Shiraishi: Partners? You hate and mistrust me. Material goods are the quickest way to resolve disputes, and I read online that women like those pastries.
She is PISSED. He talks about how they're opposites, like how she's determined to stop Adonis while he doesn't care about anything beyond his own life.
Shiraishi: This is me. Did you think I was someone else? How unfortunate.
He lets her go and says he was just teaching her a valuable life lesson. She feels like she sees him, but he doesn't truly see her.
Ichika: You don't really care about me on any emotional level. You just don't want your favourite toy to get broken. Stop trying to manipulate my feelings. I am not a toy for you to play with. To me, YOU are the doll, one without a heart or soul.
Shiraishi: ...a doll...
Ichika: I'm sorry, I know I said I would cook for you, but I don't think I can right now. Good bye.
She's a bit WAS I TOO RUDE which...Ichika honey, no.
She messages Mukai and Sakuragawa: I didn't find anything. After tonight I'll try to ensure I never have contact with him again.
She is still determined to help Takeushi, but can do it alone and report any useful info to Yanagi. Feeling not quite resigned or sad, she thinks about how Shiraishi will probably forget her like he forgot her name.
Walking down an empty street, she hears a creepy woman's voice saying "I did it! Now the nightmares will stop!"
HMM TO LISTEN CLOSER OR RUN
A week later, Ichika hasn't seen Shiraishi again, and has been so swamped by all the new X-Day cases that she hasn't had a chance to investigate anything. She stumbles across the (...week-old...) pastries in her drawer and gives them to Mochida, ranting a little about how much Shiraishi sucks.
Mochida: I do hear he's not popular. But it takes all sorts, and he did bring a gift :)
Ichika hears two male officers gossiping about how lazy Shiraishi must be given that he hasn't managed to stop Adonis this time like he did last time, which Ichika thinks is unfair. But maybe SHE has been unfair to him by not trying to understand and convince him more!!
Sure. Fine.
She decides to talk to Yanagi, since they seem to get along. Yanagi talks about they met, as assigned partners back before X-Day. Shiraishi was good at his job, but as tactless as he is now, and ruled by curiosity, and seemed bored when they actually captured the criminal and the puzzle was solved.
Yanagi: I guess we get along because we're a little alike. He's easy to understand from the right angle. When he's being obtuse, don't provoke him. Just let him be. He doesn't have any hidden sides, everything he is is right out there in the open. He can be a pain, but isn't that bad once you get used to him. Normally when someone can't keep up with him he just leaves, but he flat out asked me how to be friends with you.
STEP 1: DON'T PIN HER TO THE WALL AND TALK ABOUT MURDERING HER
Yanagi: He doesn't understand how to be close to people. I doubt he thinks he's done anything wrong.
Ichika: I...don't think I like Shiraishi. He makes everything a trial.
Yanagi: You can't figure him out, but I bet he can't figure you out either. And you came here asking for advice on how to get to know him better. He has no problem saying whatever he feels like to you, how about you return the favour?
She decides she's going to try, even though she knows it means him being an ass at her expense.
Shiraishi: Yanagi? Do you have a mess you need cleaning up or did you just miss my voice?
Yanagi: It's about Hoshino.
Shiraishi: Oh? Is she dead?
Yanagi: No. Seems you really managed to tick her off this time.
Shiraishi: I try to look after her and she gets upset and runs away. What was it she didn't like?
I WONDER
Yanagi: She has her own thoughts and opinions. She's not so dumb that she needs your lessons. She wanted to learn more about you.
Shiraishi thinks that her life would be easier if she avoided him. Her behaviour is weird. He's used to being hated, and most of the time when people try to get closer he gets bored and avoids them. But he can't ignore her. He thinks back to when she called him a soulless doll, a barb that actually stuck.
(GOD I would love if he was a robot but I assume not)
He thinks that she must be swamped with work. Would a gift make her happy? Trying to understand anything as ephemeral as emotions makes no sense. He thinks darkly that she would never guess that he is driven to be friendly with her because of his duty.
Just as Ichika is thinking about talking to Shiraishi, he turns up at her desk looking almost nervous. He says "You've probably been busy, I think you'd like these, so...here", and hands her a packet of her CHILDHOOD FAVOURITE CRACKERS and walks away.
When she goes to Shiraishi's office, Mukai grabs her hands and says she's been worried but didn't want to pry, and apologises for sending her on such a cruel mission. SO YOU SHOULD, MUKAI.
They agree to go drinking again and Mukai offers to help Ichika get revenge on Shiraishi if neccesary.
Ichika: I'm not here for revenge. I'm going to try to have a serious talk with him.
Shiraishi seems surprised that she liked the crackers. "I remembered your lunch being childish...I mean, cute". She gives him a brand of macaroons she really likes in return, since the sugar will help with thinking.
Shiraishi: Hmm. A gift chosen for my preferences is pleasant. But choosing one is a pain, I wouldn't want to do it often.
She realises that, taken the right way, this is a sign he put a lot of effort into choosing her gift.
Ichika: I think if I change my perspective, I might see a different picture of you. I'm going to try to be like Yanagi and just take what you do in stride. I won't run away.
Shiraishi: Ha! Why do you have to keep being so interesting?
Ichika: I'll take that as a compliment.
Shiraichi: Everyone always backs down from me. Even Mukai never says anything about how I do things, and Yanagi just observes. You are the first who has volunteered to try and get to know me. I think I underestimated you, Ichika :)
He pats her on the head 'because she's like a cat'
Ichika: That is what adults do to kids. I do not like it. Please don't do it again.
Shiraishi: From where I'm standing, you are a child...I kid! I kid! I'm sorry.
But he doesn't stop. *gives a 'you didn't really try' star*
Ok then I got very sleepy and just played without taking many notes!
But Ichika is able to hold her own against Shiraishi much better now that she (a) doesn't take offence so easily and (b) insults him back without trying to be polite. Plus he is clearly holding himself back from his usual full doucheyness level. They have a cute back and forth banter.
He mentions 'his guardians' as a child not celebrating Christmas but says he didn't mind, and doesn't get the appeal now. When he asks Ichika what gift he should get her next, she ends up explaining gacha machines to him and they both get cheap cat phone charms.
Yanagi and Shiraishi agreeing that Enomoto and Ichika are similarly straightforward and child-like would be less weird if they weren't both LIs...
Shiraishi: Ah, the way you look at them with the tolerance and acceptance I don't have much of, that's why people like you. While I had to use trial and error to get one girl to like me. But changing myself for one person isn't as bad as I thought it would be.
Shiraishi has looked further into the school, since Ichika cares about it: Ten years ago, just before Takeushi quit, the free school's guidance counsellor Yurine Uno attempted murder suicide with her two children, and killed her husband when he tried to stop her D:
The police quickly closed it as a mental breakdown due to existing mental health problems, just like they quickly closed the case ten years later once they had an obvious suspect.
WELP now we know who the weird kids are, and plausibly why they hate the police. They still haven't showed up on screen and I wouldn't know about them if I hadn't played that one bad end.
Shiraishi has been so consistently nice and supportive (by his standards) that Ichika trusts him to come along the next time she tries talking to Takeuchi. He thanks her for trusting him, a little bashful, like he's never thanked anyone before and isn't sure he did it right.
Just when I was worried I might be done with this game, along comes the weird, wonderful CSI Shiraishi with EXACTLY the kind of BATSHIT CRAZY ROLLER COASTER I love from Otomate. He's not GOOD for Ichika but it is a lot of fun watching him be terrible :D
But it's a lot! And I'm not even done!
Content note: Violence, brief mention of sexual assault of minor characters, suicide as a major and repeated theme, poor treatment of mental illness, child harm
Walkthrough writer: "I highly recommend playing Shiraishi’s route 4th or before unlocking Yanagi’s. Trust me! This one’s a roller coaster and contains a lot of spoilers, so brace yourself!"
Ok then!
Ichika says she was surprised someone with cat themed hairclips and tie pin is a supervisor.
Shiraishi: I'm a big cat fan. Don't you love their directness?
Ichika: Yes! They're so cute!
Shiraishi: I tried raising some but I don't have time with my job. Guess I'll just have to quit my job...
Ichika: uh
Shiraishi: You remind me of a cat. You say how you feel and don't care how people react.
Ichika: Actually I-
Shiraishi: Keep that up, you can be totally free with me. No need for formality or titles.
Ichika: That's probably not-
Shiraishi: Well, it's what I'd like :)
Ok let's go back over the September and October incidents since Shiraishi is investigating them.
The Adonis video talks about justice against those who create despair and a sense of uselessness. The voice is a little theatrical.
On September 7, Ken Hachisuka was found hanged. He was found by his girlfriend.
Police suspected a man called Yuki Sunamori, who went to the same free school, and had fingerprints at the scene. He had an Adonis coin, and claimed to be a 'chosen one'.
On October 7, a video is uploaded with a dreamy creepy voice about not feeling needed in the world. The next day, Sunamori killed himself.
The dolls in the videos look kinda like the weird boy and weird girl respectively.
Yeah I can see how this appeals to Shiraishi's interest in the odd!
OOOH and the thing Ichika says to Sakuragawa this time "I think there's a leak in the police station". She's aware that Sakuragawa herself could be a mole, and that Ichika herself is one in effect. Maybe she's not even the only police officer with this kind of collar.
Ooh and the scene did NOT end with being dragged off to deal with the game dev being murdered.
Ahaha that's right. Ichika's reason for wanting to work with Shiraishi is she thinks he's shady and wants to keep an eye on him: he has access to both the police and the detective agency, and gives off a callous, weird air. Given how hard he is to read, she decides to start by talking to Mukai.
CHAPTER ONE
OH WOW that was SURE A CREEPY LOOKING IMAGE OF SHIRAISHI in the chapter title screen o.O He was half covering one eye, which looked WIDE AND CRAZY, and had a VERY CREEPY SMILE.
The game dev murder still happened, Ichika just happened not to be around for it.
She stumbles across Shiarishi talking to Mukai about the mentality of serial killers: they have had some of critical failure, and project that despair onto others, feeling justified in killing the 'enemy'. Once they have achieved catharsis they often kill themselves or ask for the death penalty. Adonis is probably run by a charismatic leader who sees themself as entirely justified.
"Japanese people have a reputation for being law-abiding, decent people. But those perceptions are being turned upside down."
Seeing Shiraishi dispassionately analyse Adonis the way he does everything else, Ichika decides he probably isn't a member. So if someone else gave him the letter from Adonis, was it to make him look suspicious? Someone who hates him?
SOMEONE LIKE MUKAI???
IS ZERO A WOMAN????
THEY HAVE POINTY CHINS AND SLIGHT FIGURES!!
Though Mukai would have only been 17 ten years ago, and she seems like too much of a comic relief character, with the wrong personality. It was a fun moment of vertigo to suspect her though!
Ahaha but just from watching her reactions to the conversation Shiraishi has figured out that Ichika is here to probe Mukai about him maybe being the mole.
Ichika: *twitches*
Shiraishi: You really are stupidly honest. Almost naive. You'd be such an easy mark to con. Oh, have you been conned in the past? Did I rub salt in an old wound? :D
Mukai: Director that is not how you talk to a woman. Hoshino, noone would blame you if you felt the urge to bash him over the head with a blunt object :)
Shiraishi: I don't think there's anyone who wants me to kill me as much as you, Mukai :)
Mukai: Thank you, sir :)
Shiraishi: I was the one who scouted Mukai you know. She may not look it but she's pretty smart. Heck, she'd be perfect if she wasn't such a shrew :)
Mukai: Director. The 'may not look it' and 'shrew' were entirely unnecessary.
Shiraishi: Are you trying to pretend you're nice? :)
Mukai: Are you picking a fight with me? Because this volume looks perfect for bludgeoning :)
Ichika, worried by the complete lack of humour in her expression: Um. I think he was saying you're skilled and he trusts you??
Mukai: My apologies, Ms Hoshino, I let my temper get the better of me.
Shiraishi: I guess it's kind of obvious but Mukai hates my guts.
Ichika: I must say you probably earned it.
Mukai: Just look at how he dresses! He is indifferent to everyone else's opinions. No wonder everyone hates him. Aggravatingly, he's solved an enormous number of cases with his accurate profiling, including the assassination attempt by Adonis on the Prime Minister two years ago.
Mukai makes a reference to inviting Ichika to join 'a coalition', then leaves.
Shiraishi leans close to Ichika, wondering why Adonis is so interested in someone so lacking in talent or ability. When she says she wants to find the mole he laughs and says that's impossible given that all her emotions show up on her face. She silently wishes she had Mukai's ability to tell him to get lost, but reiterates her determination.
He offers a deal. She does the boring legwork and witness statements to help him investigate the September and October cases, and he uses his profiling skills and access to help look for the mole. She reluctantly agrees.
Shiraishi: Great! Now I don't need to figure out how to con you into it. And I get to observe you, too :)
The dudes at the detective agency are all surprised Shiraishi is actually taking an interest in something and Yanagi wishes Ichika luck.
As she's walking home, Shiraishi follows behind her at an uncomfortable distance, saying he's going in the same direction. And then, in an abandoned alley, he reaches into his coat for...a cat toy, to play with local strays he has named No. 1 and No. 2. He picks one up and cheerfully tells it it's getting fat with a soft smile on his face. He says he's up to No. 37 at this point.
Shiraishi: I bet it would be amazing to live as a stray cat, lazy and free. Though there's the uncertainty of knowing you could die at any time.
His ever present smile slides off his face.
Ichika: Um. You seem to live pretty freely to me.
Shiraishi: I do? :)
WHY DID THE CAT TOY GET ADDED TO THE MURDER MYSTERY MATERIALS
He says he's going off towards his house now, and Ichika feels bad for suspecting him, but then he smiles creepily and tells her to be careful going home and she finds herself so freaked out she runs all the way home.
Shiraishi POV
Shiraishi: You ran away when you first met me too, No. 1. I'd never seen a live cat before, so I tried chasing you...
DID HE GROW UP IN A LAB OR SOMETHING
And then he gets a call from MIKUNI, the creepy Adonis priest politician son of the Prime Minister!! At least I'm like 90% sure it's him from the Saito-ish voice.
Mikuni?: It's been three months since the weapons law was repealed. So far nothing has changed.
Shiraishi: That's within our predictions. But it is true we're running out of time. At this rate, X-Day will arrive.
Mituni?: Now that you've observed her, what are your thoughts?
Shiraishi: She's a totally normal girl. I don't see any signs of her sympathising with Adonis.
Mituni?: Then why was she chosen?
Shiraishi: Who knows? I'll look into that since I have time. You go back to worrying about your own job.
Mituni?: Do you think I can do it?
Shiraishi: You're the only one who can.
Mituni?: True. I will have to make my decision soon. I wish I could be like you and just discard everything unnecessary.
Shiraishi: Do you have any logical reason you can't?
Mukai: ...Please let me know when she makes a move. *hangs up*
Shiraishi, to himself: We've known each other how long yet you still won't tell me anything at all. But he's right, I wouldn't be agonising over it like this. Though I do want to support him, and the world he wants to create.
He gets another call from a restricted number, and makes a sound of surprise, then thinks "I don't think I can help him make the world he wants. I have my own job to do."
????????
I HAVE NO IDEA WHAT'S HAPPENING, but for my own enjoyment, am going to assume aliens until proven otherwise. Or maybe like...Cafe Enchante style angels.
(Or he could...just be in Adonis...BUT NO. ANGELS)
Unknown Adonis POV
"Everyone, at some point, wishes to acquire power to rule over the weak. The rulers appear 'evil' but imposing rules creates order. Order allows for the birth of salvation. Someone has to do it, no matter how much suffering it creates. No matter how much grief they have to bear."
Please please game do not try to make me sympathise with fascists.
The burned stalker murder happens and Ichika's department is swamped with calls.
Shiraishi comes over during her lunch break with notes on the September and October cases.
Shiraishi: That's one kiddy lunch box. You cut the sausages into octopi and the apples into rabbits :D
Ichika: Presentation is part of the enjoyment :/
He sits himself next to her and starts asking about her friends and interests, 'collecting information'.
Ichika: So you suspect me.
Shiraishi: And you suspect me. Fair's fair. It's wise to be so guarded but I'd advice against trying to lie :)
So I don't! He is surprised and charmed by her honesty.
Reading Shiraishi's notes, she finds a hand-written side-note: "Who is the real killer?"
The victim Hachisuka was the son of a famous actress, which made it hard for him at regular highschool, so he went to a 'free school', which the dictionary tells me is a school for those who cannot attend regular school due to behavioural issues. He was popular and well behaved.
Also WTF is up with this dictionary. This page, page 6, has "??, Disabled, Hacking, Groupies, ??, Soldiers Value Swiftness, ??, Free School,..." which are all over the place in terms of theme, first letter, what route they showed up on...is it JAPANESE alphabetical order?? Pages 8 and 10 are empty but not page 9?
Anyway. The supposed murderer, Sunamori, was a bully from a young age, and continued to cause problems even when forced to go to a free school.
At the time of his arrest, Sunamori said "I was chosen by Adonis. Noone ordered me to do it. I didn't hate him, I just felt like killing him".
They were friends at school, with Hachisuka defending Sunamori when he got into trouble, but hadn't seen each other in ten years.
Hand written questions: What is the message Adonis wants to send? Why did Sunamori commit suicide? What did the October video really mean?
Ichika feels like these questions are directed at her.
Mochida: Is that an X-Day report? ARE YOU INVESTIGATING TOO??
Ichika: You always were envious of units who get to do investigation.
Mochida: Well what cop wouldn't be!
Mochida hadn't considered that Sunamori might not be the real killer before, but agrees that even the interrogators thought he might be too emotionally unstable to have planned such an elaborate murder. Someone from Adonis could have planned it for him but he didn't seem to actually know much about the organisation.
They discuss that there may have been an unknown murder in October but I'm waiting for someone to suggest that Sunamori himself is the October murder victim. Ichika hasn't even thought to suspect Mukai yet! (EDIT: Noone ever suspects Mukai)
Their original homeroom teacher, Satomi Takeuchi, quit for 'personal reasons'. Mochida comes up with an excuse for Ichika to visit the area, bless.
Shiraishi insists on coming too, and Ichika tells Mochida he's helping with her investigations. Mochida cheerfully says he'd heard of the guy from forensics with the cat accessories, Shiraishi says he's cut them down and it seems like everyone in the SRCPO is the bluntly honest, nice guy type.
Mochida: You think I'm nice? :D But thank you for helping Hoshino!
Shiraishi: Oh, is that your name?
Shiraishi says it's his policy not to waste brain space on things he doesn't need, like her name. He's only at Shinjuku temporarily and they won't see each other again once the case is solved.
Ichika: We're working together. Remember my name >:(
She vows to herself that she'll MAKE him remember it. I like this dynamic, I was worried he'd walk all over her, and he kinda does, but she keeps her dignity.
Haha and then she tells him to let her do the talking because he's so bad with people. He's fine with it since he's just here to observe her.
The teacher Takeuchi says she's already told the police everything she knows but Ichika persuades her to talk.
She looks...like a sad brunette adult version of the two sad brunette siblings...
I had a moment of DID SHE GET PREGNANT TO ONE OF THE STUDENTS but it was only 10 years ago and Ichika described the siblings as highschool aged.
She says Sunamori caused trouble, but Hachisuka made sure no one child was singled out for extreme bullying. Hachisuka was a good child.
Shiraishi: You sound like you're trying to convince yourself.
Ichika: DID I NOT TELL YOU TO STAY QUIET
Shiraishi: Sorry, couldn't help it. You were afraid of him, weren't you? Let me guess, he bullied you into quitting. He's dead, and I'm in a hurry, so tell the truth.
Takeuchi: I would have stopped him if I could! *runs off and slams door*
Ichika is pissed at his callousness but Shiraishi is just happy they made such an effective good cop bad cop team, and says she should learn his rapid-fire interrogation technique.
Shiraishi: I don't let my conscience get in the way when I don't want it to. Aren't you being overly empathetic to a stranger?
Ichika: I understand that an officer must be objective but that's no reason to cause unnecessary pain. Couldn't we have gotten the information once we gained her trust?
Shiraishi: We don't have time to take the long way. Sacrifices have to be made.
She is NOT a fan of that philosophy and he mockingly calls her a knight in shining armour. She says she's going to interview witnesses without him from now on. He says he doesn't understand having ideals like her, but that makes him want to figure her out.
That night Ichika is invited to dinner with the 'Coalition' and has visions of meeting top brass in secret smoky rooms...but it's just Mukai and Sakuragawa, forming the "Shiraishi Bashing Coalition" or SBC. Ichika is surprised to see Mukai into drinking sake and eating trashy snacks in a dive bar.
Mukai: The coalition has many sympathisers but sadly noone else agreed to join.
Sakuragawa: Our main activity is getting drunk and dunking on Shiraishi. You interested?
Ichika: Sign me up. I had an incident today that made me realise we would never get along.
Sakuragawa: Nobody on the planet can get along with him.
Mukai: Today he left in the middle of the day, saddling me with a pile of work, saying he had a cat he was worried about!
Ichika: *cough* So. Why do you hate Shiraishi, Sakuragawa?
She got to know Mukai at crime scenes, and started visiting her office. And then Shiraishi said he had meat for her but it was FAKE MEAT made of NATTO, which he KNEW was her least favourite food, because he wanted to see her normally stoic facade crumble.
Sakuragawa: He is now a sworn enemy until I die. And even though we work together he still forgets my name!
Ichika: ME TOO
Mukai: He remembers MY name because I taped a massive poster of it to his desk and make him read it every morning. If necessary, I recommend a slap or kick :)
Ichika: You're...a very strong woman...
Sakuragawa: Since he's handsome he gets new girls giving him chocolate, but just openly throws it away.
Ichika: He may be handsome but it's what's inside that counts!
Enomoto: Ha!
Shiraishi: Shh, things are about to get interesting. Don't mind us, ladies :)
Sakuragawa and Ichika: D:
Mukai: Oh. Director. Shamelessly eavesdropping on a lady's conversation...you haven't a shred of dignity :)
Shiraishi: You're a lady? As far as I know ladies don't try to burn their superiors :)
Yanagi: That's enough Shiraishi.
Enomoto: Yeah, can you really blame them? Though, a bashing club? Women are scary...
Mukai: I see the Director's associates are as vexing as he is.
Enomoto: ACTUALLY IT HAS A NICE RING TO IT D:
Shiraishi: So you want to bash me too? :)
Enomoto: THAT WAS A JOKE D:
Mukai: An unfunny one. As an apology, you should perform a trick.
Shiraishi: Ooh, I like that idea. Enomoto, explode :D
Enomoto: D: D:
Sasazuka: Shut up, we have work to do *kicks Enomoto*
Mukai: Yes! Keep it up! :D
Mukai you may be more like Shiraishi than you want to admit.
Ichika, moving away from Mukai and towards Yanagi: Um, sorry about this, sir.
Yanagi: Shiraishi said we should come to this bar to hear an 'interesting conversation' :/
Shiraishi, sitting next to her: And now I have a very clear idea what you think of me ^_^
In her awkwardness, she throws back Shiraishi's strong drink, and is immediately blackout drunk.
She wakes...with her head on his lap and him patting her hair??
Shiraishi: Don't worry, I'll get you home safe and sound ;)
Ichika: THAT'S FINE I'LL GO WITH SAKURAGAWA OR MUKAI
Shiraishi: The other woman took Mukai home. She has a bad habit of glomping onto strangers when she's drunk, you see. Let me tell you a funny story, that other woman tried to take you home, opening the top button of your shirt to let you breathe.
Me: o.O
Shiraishi: I said I'd take care of you, otherwise she might have seen your collar.
Me: Ohhhhh *still thinks Sakuragawa is a lesbian*
Shiraishi: Mukai didn't like the sound of that so I asked if she wanted to see the mark I left on your neck that badly :)
Ichika: The WHAT
Shiraishi: Now you're pouting. You really do hate me :)
She gets a drunken call from Saeki asking if she wants to keep him company drinking, he's glad for her when she says she just got back from a ladies night.
Shiraishi POV
Shiraishi: I know you're enjoying a moment of melancholy but would you mind if I interrupt?
Yanagi: Would you go away if I said I did?
Shiraishi: Heh. So. Having to be protective of a drunk girl is exhausting.
Yanagi: Whatever. Do you think Hoshino checks out?
Shiraishi: Pure as the driven snow. And so stupid!
Yanagi: You look like you're having fun. I was surprised you've taken an interest.
Shiraishi: If I left her be she might get herself killed. Though I almost want to experiment to see if the guy who collared her would actually do it.
Yanagi: Shiraishi >:(
Shiraishi: I said almost! I'm going out of my way to look after her.
Yanagi: After what I heard about the stunt you pulled during that questioning, I doubt that.
Shiraishi: I just took a page from her book and expressed my honest opinion. You think I should have buttered her up?
Yanagi: You can figure that out yourself.
Shiraishi: Aww but I don't wanna. You think for me.
Yanagi: I may have to deal with you, but I don't have to like it, and I don't have to go that far for you.
Shiraishi: You know, Yanagi, you're cold too, but people actually like you, even the little cat. I wonder what the difference is.
Yanagi: ...did you not notice that entire conversation about why people hate you...
Shiraishi: It's not relevant. But changing my behaviour to her might change her reactions, like if I gave her gifts...
Yanagi: Nothing weird >:(
Shiraishi: Appropriate things. After all, I can't keep fooling around forever.
The next morning Ichika arrives to find a box of fancy pastries from Shiraishi on her desk and is DEEPLY DUBIOUS.
Mochida comes with her to apologise to Takeuchi but she just tells them to go away. They're approached by an old lady Ichika has helped in the past, who cheerfully rambles about how Takeuchi was a bundle of nerves in September, just like she was after she quit the school. Ichika wants to help Takeuchi work through whatever is bothering her, and Mochida has faith in her ability to gain people's trust.
Haha oh nooo the next day Mukai and Sakuragawa take Ichika to an interrogation room and demand to know if she has BETRAYED THE TRUST OF THE SHIRAISHI BASHING COMMITTEE by DATING SHIRAISHI. There is a spectacular CG of the two of them leaning over her and peppering her with sharp questions like the hard-bitten cops they are, I hope I can figure out how to show you all (assuming anyone actually reads this far lol)
*takes a photo of the TV with my damn phone like a barbarian*
(I never realised quite how terrible Ichika's haircut is before. A short bob over butt-length strands, why)
Ichika denies it but then is unable to show them her neck, or explain why the usually indifferent Shiraishi is giving her gifts. Her only explanation is that he wants to mess with her, which they both find convincing. Sakuragawa is sympathetic and Mukai uses her skills as a profiler to reaffirm her faith in Ichika's hatred.
Sakuragawa: But now we know Shiraishi is sweet on her. That's a nice tidbit of dirt :D
Mukai: You will of course cooperate with us. Your first mission is to expose embarrassing details about his private life :)
Ichika doubts the ethics and wisdom of this but decides she has to thank him for the pastries anyway. He seems genuinely surprised and happy that she went to so much trouble and doesn't totally hate him. When she tries to leave Mukai comes in and pushes her back in and tells Shiraishi that Ichika want to know him better. Yeah that'll totally fool him, Mukai.
Shiraishi: Well isn't that nice :)
Mukai: Why not invite her to your house and have her cook you dinner? :)
Shiraishi: Sure. What a great way to get closer :)
Ichika: ...Yeah :(
MUKAI. BE MEAN TO SHIRAISHI ALL YOU WANT BUT DON'T PRESSURE ICHIKA TO GO HOME WITH WEIRD MEN >:(
Once they're out of the building Shiraishi says he doesn't expect her to actually go through with it, but she is determined. She feels like he is maybe trying to be nice, in his way, but still finds him impossible to read.
Shiraishi, watching her struggle: Do you want me to carry some of the grocery bags? Isn't that standard for the man in this situation?
Ichika: Not always. And many men will pick up the bags without being asked. Not everything follows the standard procedure.
Shiraishi: I do love outliers :)
He lives in a nice modern condo and says she is her first visitor. Noone else has ever asked.
Just as she's wondering how to find any dirt he says "My observation is compromising the authenticity of your behaviour", and leaves the room. She decides to think of looking around his place as 'getting to know him better'.
CRIME SCENE INVESTIGATION TIME :D
She finds...cat photos. Statistics books. And the same book of romantic confessions she saw on Enomoto's desk, which she assumes is for a prank. Probably.
When he catches her looking under the bed she admits that Mukai put her up to it. Of course he knew, and finds it all hilarious.
But then his expression gets serious and he says she clearly lacks a sense of caution. He pins her to the wall and idly wonders how much he can do to her before Adonis interferes.
He says a BUNCH OF CREEPY SHIT about how he has complete control over her and how she's far too innocent when the world is full of people who won't flinch before harming others. He briefly does the 'what do you expect going alone into a man's room' thing but mostly focusses on how easy it would be to murder her which is...better??
Ichika: We're partners. I thought you got me that gift to try and meet me halfway :(
Shiraishi: Partners? You hate and mistrust me. Material goods are the quickest way to resolve disputes, and I read online that women like those pastries.
She is PISSED. He talks about how they're opposites, like how she's determined to stop Adonis while he doesn't care about anything beyond his own life.
Shiraishi: This is me. Did you think I was someone else? How unfortunate.
He lets her go and says he was just teaching her a valuable life lesson. She feels like she sees him, but he doesn't truly see her.
Ichika: You don't really care about me on any emotional level. You just don't want your favourite toy to get broken. Stop trying to manipulate my feelings. I am not a toy for you to play with. To me, YOU are the doll, one without a heart or soul.
Shiraishi: ...a doll...
Ichika: I'm sorry, I know I said I would cook for you, but I don't think I can right now. Good bye.
She's a bit WAS I TOO RUDE which...Ichika honey, no.
She messages Mukai and Sakuragawa: I didn't find anything. After tonight I'll try to ensure I never have contact with him again.
She is still determined to help Takeushi, but can do it alone and report any useful info to Yanagi. Feeling not quite resigned or sad, she thinks about how Shiraishi will probably forget her like he forgot her name.
Walking down an empty street, she hears a creepy woman's voice saying "I did it! Now the nightmares will stop!"
HMM TO LISTEN CLOSER OR RUN
A week later, Ichika hasn't seen Shiraishi again, and has been so swamped by all the new X-Day cases that she hasn't had a chance to investigate anything. She stumbles across the (...week-old...) pastries in her drawer and gives them to Mochida, ranting a little about how much Shiraishi sucks.
Mochida: I do hear he's not popular. But it takes all sorts, and he did bring a gift :)
Ichika hears two male officers gossiping about how lazy Shiraishi must be given that he hasn't managed to stop Adonis this time like he did last time, which Ichika thinks is unfair. But maybe SHE has been unfair to him by not trying to understand and convince him more!!
Sure. Fine.
She decides to talk to Yanagi, since they seem to get along. Yanagi talks about they met, as assigned partners back before X-Day. Shiraishi was good at his job, but as tactless as he is now, and ruled by curiosity, and seemed bored when they actually captured the criminal and the puzzle was solved.
Yanagi: I guess we get along because we're a little alike. He's easy to understand from the right angle. When he's being obtuse, don't provoke him. Just let him be. He doesn't have any hidden sides, everything he is is right out there in the open. He can be a pain, but isn't that bad once you get used to him. Normally when someone can't keep up with him he just leaves, but he flat out asked me how to be friends with you.
STEP 1: DON'T PIN HER TO THE WALL AND TALK ABOUT MURDERING HER
Yanagi: He doesn't understand how to be close to people. I doubt he thinks he's done anything wrong.
Ichika: I...don't think I like Shiraishi. He makes everything a trial.
Yanagi: You can't figure him out, but I bet he can't figure you out either. And you came here asking for advice on how to get to know him better. He has no problem saying whatever he feels like to you, how about you return the favour?
She decides she's going to try, even though she knows it means him being an ass at her expense.
Shiraishi: Yanagi? Do you have a mess you need cleaning up or did you just miss my voice?
Yanagi: It's about Hoshino.
Shiraishi: Oh? Is she dead?
Yanagi: No. Seems you really managed to tick her off this time.
Shiraishi: I try to look after her and she gets upset and runs away. What was it she didn't like?
I WONDER
Yanagi: She has her own thoughts and opinions. She's not so dumb that she needs your lessons. She wanted to learn more about you.
Shiraishi thinks that her life would be easier if she avoided him. Her behaviour is weird. He's used to being hated, and most of the time when people try to get closer he gets bored and avoids them. But he can't ignore her. He thinks back to when she called him a soulless doll, a barb that actually stuck.
(GOD I would love if he was a robot but I assume not)
He thinks that she must be swamped with work. Would a gift make her happy? Trying to understand anything as ephemeral as emotions makes no sense. He thinks darkly that she would never guess that he is driven to be friendly with her because of his duty.
Just as Ichika is thinking about talking to Shiraishi, he turns up at her desk looking almost nervous. He says "You've probably been busy, I think you'd like these, so...here", and hands her a packet of her CHILDHOOD FAVOURITE CRACKERS and walks away.
When she goes to Shiraishi's office, Mukai grabs her hands and says she's been worried but didn't want to pry, and apologises for sending her on such a cruel mission. SO YOU SHOULD, MUKAI.
They agree to go drinking again and Mukai offers to help Ichika get revenge on Shiraishi if neccesary.
Ichika: I'm not here for revenge. I'm going to try to have a serious talk with him.
Shiraishi seems surprised that she liked the crackers. "I remembered your lunch being childish...I mean, cute". She gives him a brand of macaroons she really likes in return, since the sugar will help with thinking.
Shiraishi: Hmm. A gift chosen for my preferences is pleasant. But choosing one is a pain, I wouldn't want to do it often.
She realises that, taken the right way, this is a sign he put a lot of effort into choosing her gift.
Ichika: I think if I change my perspective, I might see a different picture of you. I'm going to try to be like Yanagi and just take what you do in stride. I won't run away.
Shiraishi: Ha! Why do you have to keep being so interesting?
Ichika: I'll take that as a compliment.
Shiraichi: Everyone always backs down from me. Even Mukai never says anything about how I do things, and Yanagi just observes. You are the first who has volunteered to try and get to know me. I think I underestimated you, Ichika :)
He pats her on the head 'because she's like a cat'
Ichika: That is what adults do to kids. I do not like it. Please don't do it again.
Shiraishi: From where I'm standing, you are a child...I kid! I kid! I'm sorry.
But he doesn't stop. *gives a 'you didn't really try' star*
Ok then I got very sleepy and just played without taking many notes!
But Ichika is able to hold her own against Shiraishi much better now that she (a) doesn't take offence so easily and (b) insults him back without trying to be polite. Plus he is clearly holding himself back from his usual full doucheyness level. They have a cute back and forth banter.
He mentions 'his guardians' as a child not celebrating Christmas but says he didn't mind, and doesn't get the appeal now. When he asks Ichika what gift he should get her next, she ends up explaining gacha machines to him and they both get cheap cat phone charms.
Yanagi and Shiraishi agreeing that Enomoto and Ichika are similarly straightforward and child-like would be less weird if they weren't both LIs...
Shiraishi: Ah, the way you look at them with the tolerance and acceptance I don't have much of, that's why people like you. While I had to use trial and error to get one girl to like me. But changing myself for one person isn't as bad as I thought it would be.
Shiraishi has looked further into the school, since Ichika cares about it: Ten years ago, just before Takeushi quit, the free school's guidance counsellor Yurine Uno attempted murder suicide with her two children, and killed her husband when he tried to stop her D:
The police quickly closed it as a mental breakdown due to existing mental health problems, just like they quickly closed the case ten years later once they had an obvious suspect.
WELP now we know who the weird kids are, and plausibly why they hate the police. They still haven't showed up on screen and I wouldn't know about them if I hadn't played that one bad end.
Shiraishi has been so consistently nice and supportive (by his standards) that Ichika trusts him to come along the next time she tries talking to Takeuchi. He thanks her for trusting him, a little bashful, like he's never thanked anyone before and isn't sure he did it right.
