An accident? One of three!

Even in the end, the Special Investigation Department failed to make Kiriyama talk. However—

After Shiraishi played Councilor Morohoshi's press conference for Kiriyama, Kiriyama completely lost his composure!

After all, once Morohoshi stepped forward, not only did the full story behind Yamanaka's death come to light, but Saegusa's bribery and hiring of a killer were exposed as well.

Morohoshi's earlier hesitation had not been because the evidence was insufficient to bring Saegusa down. Rather, bringing him down now would change little in the political landscape—the best time to strike would have been just before, or just after, Saegusa became a Minister of State.

But to Saegusa and his lackeys, that made no difference!

Kiriyama's resolve to "remain silent" instantly crumbled. Except—

The Special Investigation Department officers were called back by phone at that point. Kiriyama's testimony no longer mattered; Morohoshi had already identified a far more important informant.

Kiriyama was merely a small fry thrown to them, and the Special Investigation Department had lost interest. He was left at Beika Police Station for further questioning about the murder.

Before leaving, Kawashiri shook Shiraishi's hand with a complicated expression. "Chief Superintendent Shiraishi, sorry for the trouble these past two days."

Having just received a call from headquarters, Kawashiri already knew that Shiraishi had visited Councilor Morohoshi's campaign office that morning. He would never believe the two events were unrelated, merely a coincidence.

Thus, Kawashiri felt both admiration and some resentment toward Shiraishi. Egami, on the other hand, felt nothing but resentment—

Shiraishi was quite gracious. "Not at all. Cooperating with the prosecutors is part of our job. We should strengthen cooperation between the police and prosecution." After glancing at Egami, he added helpfully, "Egami always liked reading alone, but he isn't antisocial. Prosecutor Kawashiri, putting your faith in him is certainly