Chapter Summaries

Key Plot Points and Events

• Shiraishi returns to work, finding Unit 3 and a half at a murder scene.
• The victim, Sunrise, is found dead with glass shards on her body and no tears on her skirt.
• Fujimaru Kazuo confesses to an affair with Sunrise but denies killing her.
• Shiraishi suspects the case might be an accident, not a murder.

Character Developments

• Shiraishi: Returns to work with a minor injury, displays professionalism and keen observation skills.
• Fujimaru Kazuo: Initially lies about his affair with Sunrise, later confesses under pressure.
• Ayako: Shows concern for her younger sister, Sonoko, and tries to shield her from the investigation.
• Sonoko: Teases Ran about Shinichi, accidentally knocks over a cardboard box that grabs Shiraishi's attention.

Significant Themes

• Truth vs. Deception: Fujimaru Kazuo initially lies about his affair, but the truth comes out under pressure.
• Appearances vs. Reality: The seemingly solid picture frame glass shatters, challenging expectations.
• Professionalism vs. Personal Life: Shiraishi maintains his professional demeanor despite his relationship with Ayako.

Character Interactions

• Shiraishi and Akasaka: Shiraishi entrusts the case to Akasaka, expressing confidence in his team.
• Shiraishi and Ayako: They interact briefly, showing a comfortable and familiar relationship.
• Sonoko and Ran: Sonoko teases Ran about Shinichi, highlighting their friendly rivalry.
• Fujimaru Kazuo and Mrs. Fujimaru: Their affair is revealed, causing distress and tension between them.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Fujimaru Yoshino reveals she asked her husband to end his affair with Nakabato Hizuko.
• Shinichi notices a discoloration on the wall where a wedding photo frame used to hang.
• Shinichi suspects the murder wasn't an accident or a crime of passion committed by Fujimaru Kazuo.
• Shinichi deduces the culprit likely rehearsed the murder using a picture frame and a remote control or timed mechanism.
• Shiraishi prohibits Shinichi from further investigating and decides to guide his police officers to solve the case.

Character Developments

• Fujimaru Yoshino: Reveals her past as a composer and her role in her husband's affair.
• Shinichi: Shows his deductive skills by piecing together clues and suspecting a rehearsed murder.
• Shiraishi: Demonstrates his strong intuition and desire to guide his police officers to solve the case.

Significant Themes

• The theme of marriage and infidelity, as seen through Fujimaru Yoshino's actions and the impact of her husband's affair.
• The role of deduction and intuition in solving a mystery, as shown by Shinichi and Shiraishi's approaches.

Character Interactions

• Shinichi and Kuroki comfort Fujimaru Yoshino and learn about her past.
• Shinichi interacts with Shiraishi, with the latter prohibiting Shinichi from further investigating and deciding to guide his officers.
• Shiraishi guides Kanzaki by having Fujimaru Kazuo reenact the scene with a picture frame.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Fujimaru Kazuo plays a music CD, and the picture frame Shiraishi hung earlier shatters, nearly injuring everyone.
• Kanzaki discovers that the music has an added audio frequency that matches the natural frequency of the picture frame's glass, causing it to resonate and shatter.
• Fujimaru Yoshino confesses to being the one who modified the music, intending to kill her husband during their affair.
• Yoshino is arrested, and Fujimaru Kazuo is taken to the police station for questioning.

Character Developments

• Fujimaru Yoshino: Reveals her deep resentment towards her husband for his affair and her willingness to kill him using their shared love song as validation.
• Fujimaru Kazuo: Panics upon realizing the potential damage to his reputation if the affair is exposed in court.
• Shiraishi: Shows his keen observation skills and understanding of human psychology, though he remains emotionally detached from the case.
• Kanzaki: Demonstrates his technical expertise and quick thinking in identifying the resonance phenomenon.

Significant Themes

• Resonance: The physical phenomenon of resonance is used as a metaphor for the emotional resonance between the couple and their shared past.
• Betrayal and Revenge: Fujimaru Yoshino's sense of betrayal leads her to seek revenge against her husband.
• Emotional Vulnerability: The culprit's emotional vulnerabilities are exploited, leading to their downfall.

Character Interactions

• Shiraishi and Shinichi: Shinichi is impressed by Shiraishi's deductive skills but frustrated by his inability to match Shiraishi's insight.
• Fujimaru Kazuo and Yoshino: Their strained relationship and shared history come to a head, with Yoshino seeking revenge for Kazuo's affair.
• Kanzaki and Shiraishi: Kanzaki's technical expertise complements Shiraishi's deductive skills, leading to the resolution of the case.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Shinichi deduces the culprit's method using high-frequency sounds and resonance to kill.
• Shiraishi reveals he heard faint ultrasound, leading him to suspect the use of resonance.
• Shiraishi returns to duty and discovers a training program in forensic skills. He decides to include Kanzaki despite not being on the initial list.

Character Developments

• Shinichi is amazed by Shiraishi's resilience and unique investigative method of hearing ultrasound.
• Shiraishi demonstrates his physical prowess and keen investigative skills, earning respect from others.
• Kanzaki's potential in forensics is recognized by Shiraishi, who decides to include him in the training program.

Significant Themes

• The importance of physical fitness and unique abilities in solving cases.
• The value of recognizing and nurturing potential in individuals.
• The significance of forensic skills in case investigations.

Character Interactions

• Shinichi and Shiraishi discuss the case, with Shinichi learning about Shiraishi's ability to hear ultrasound.
• Shiraishi interacts with Sakuma Akira, a young forensic officer, showing approachability despite his legendary status.
• Shiraishi visits Senior Investigator Igari to request more training slots for the forensic skills program, including Kanzaki.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Shiraishi visits Igari to request an extra spot in the training program, offering a can of tea as a bribe.
• Shiraishi successfully secures the extra spot and gains favors with Igari, Odagiri, and Iwata.
• The next day, Assemblyman Tonoguchi and a Masuyama Group lawyer visit the Beika Police Station regarding a Train Groper case involving a Masuyama Group executive, Kurumaya.
• Kurumaya is arrested by Patrol Officer Fuji, and the Masuyama Group attempts to settle the case privately.
• Shiraishi intervenes, handles the case officially, and instructs Detective Aoki to consult Section Chief Kunikida for procedural matters.

Character Developments

• Shiraishi demonstrates his political acumen and networking skills by securing the extra training spot and gaining favors.
• Kurumaya exhibits a sense of entitlement and privilege, admitting to the act and blaming the victim.
• Tonoguchi continues to act as a lackey for the Masuyama Group, trying to settle the case privately.

Significant Themes

• Corruption and privilege: Kurumaya's behavior and the Masuyama Group's attempt to settle the case privately highlight the theme of corruption and privilege.
• Power dynamics: Shiraishi's interactions with Igari, Odagiri, and Iwata illustrate the power dynamics within the police force and politics.
• Victim-blaming: Kurumaya's statement about the girl's clothing suggests a victim-blaming attitude.

Character Interactions

• Shiraishi and Igari: Shiraishi successfully lobbies Igari for the extra training spot, improving their relationship.
• Shiraishi and Tonoguchi: Shiraishi remains disdainful of Tonoguchi but maintains a polite demeanor.
• Shiraishi and Kurumaya: Shiraishi takes a disliking to Kurumaya and handles the case officially due to Kurumaya's arrogance and admission of guilt.
• Aoki and Shiraishi: Aoki reports the case to Shiraishi and follows his instructions regarding the case.

Key Plot Points and Events

• A "Train Groper" case from the previous week resurfaces when the victim and her mother come to the station for reconciliation.
• The victim's privacy was leaked, leading to harassment by the perpetrator's lawyer, causing her to take a leave from school.
• Chief Shiraishi, upon learning about the harassment, decides to take action against the lawyer and the perpetrator.

Character Developments

• Shiraishi Kuro (Chief Shiraishi): Starts as indifferent to the "Train Groper" case but becomes enraged upon learning about the victim's harassment. He decides to use his position to protect the victim and teach the perpetrator and his lawyer a lesson.
• Kurumaya (the perpetrator): Initially smug and confident, he becomes panicked and loses his composure when Shiraishi threatens to expose his actions at his daughter's school.
• Kurata (Kurumaya's lawyer): Initially confident in reaching a reconciliation, he becomes dumbfounded and worried about his own job security when Shiraishi threatens to report the case to the Bar Association.

Significant Themes

• Protection of Victims' Rights: Shiraishi's primary concern is to protect the victim and her family from further harassment and psychological distress.
• Abuse of Power: The lawyer's actions and the leak of the victim's information highlight the potential for abuse of power and influence.
• Consequences of Actions: The perpetrator and his lawyer face the consequences of their actions, demonstrating that even seemingly minor offenses can have significant repercussions.

Character Interactions

• Shiraishi and Kurumaya: Their interaction highlights Shiraishi's determination to protect the victim and his willingness to use his position to intimidate Kurumaya.
• Shiraishi and Kurata: Their interaction shows Shiraishi's resolve to hold the lawyer accountable for his actions, even if it means putting his own job at risk.
• Shiraishi and the Victim: Although there's no direct interaction in this chapter, Shiraishi's actions demonstrate his commitment to supporting and protecting the victim.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Shiraishi's stand against Kurumaya and Kurata emboldens Nishimura to confront her harassers.
• Masuyama Group's legal team, including Masuyama Kenzo, visits the police station to apologize to Nishimura.
• Masuyama Kenzo agrees to compensate Nishimura and her family for the distress caused.
• Kurumaya is forced to perform dogeza (prostrate himself) as an apology to Nishimura.

Character Developments

• Nishimura gains courage to face her harassers after seeing Shiraishi stand up for her.
• Kurumaya is humiliated and forced to apologize sincerely.
• Masuyama Kenzo shows willingness to take responsibility for his employee's actions.

Significant Themes

• The power dynamics between the police, corporations, and individuals.
• The importance of sincere apologies and accountability.
• The theme of traditional values and their relevance in modern society.

Character Interactions

• Shiraishi stands up for Nishimura, giving her the courage to confront her harassers.
• Masuyama Kenzo apologizes to Nishimura and agrees to compensate her family.
• Kurumaya is humiliated and forced to apologize to Nishimura.
• Shiraishi uses his influence to ensure Kurumaya apologizes sincerely.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Kurumaya apologizes, and Shiraishi drops the idea of using his photo for crime prevention.
• Shiraishi threatens to expose the law firm that leaked caller information, pressuring them to reveal their informant.
• Sakurayama, a women's rights activist, disrupts the police station, trying to help Student Nishimura but is rebuffed by Shiraishi and the Nishimuras.

Character Developments

• Shiraishi demonstrates his power and influence, earning respect and fear from both criminals and law enforcement.
• Student Nishimura gains courage and stands up to Sakurayama, showing growth and resilience.
• Sakurayama is introduced as a passionate but somewhat reckless advocate for women's rights.

Significant Themes

• Power dynamics and consequences of abuse of power.
• The struggle for women's rights and the complexities of activism.
• The role of law enforcement in maintaining justice and order.

Character Interactions

• Shiraishi intimidates Kurumaya and the law firm, showing his authority.
• Student Nishimura stands up to Sakurayama, asserting her agency.
• Sakurayama confronts Shiraishi, questioning his methods and intentions.
• Shiraishi and Ayako discuss the Teitan High School incident, with Ayako expressing her concerns.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Shiraishi learns that the Chairman of Teitan High School's Board of Directors is Ayako's mother, Suzuki Tomoko, and she's upset about his previous actions.
• Shiraishi has dinner with the Suzuki family to apologize.
• A homicide case occurs in Kagemaiha Apartments, involving a woman named Sakurayama Rika, who is connected to the non-profit organization [For W].

Character Developments

• Shiraishi shows remorse and willingness to apologize for his actions, demonstrating growth in considering others' feelings.
• Ayako shows concern for Shiraishi's well-being and understanding of his upright nature.

Significant Themes

• Power Dynamics: Shiraishi's interactions with the Suzuki family highlight the power dynamics between them, with Shiraishi being more aware of his position and the potential consequences of his actions.
• Consequences of Actions: The homicide case serves as a reminder of the severe consequences that can arise from provoking or offending others.

Character Interactions

• Shiraishi and Ayako's relationship deepens as they spend more time together and show understanding and concern for each other.
• Shiraishi interacts with the Suzuki family, showing remorse for his previous actions and attempting to repair his relationship with them.
• Shiraishi and the detectives at the crime scene maintain a professional and respectful relationship, with the detectives showing deference to Shiraishi's authority.

Summary

Key Plot Points and Events

• A woman, Ms. Sakurayama, is found dead in her apartment, with signs of homicide despite the scene being locked from the inside.
• The victim is a director of a women's rights advocacy organization, [For W], with a radical stance and many enemies.
• The first discoverer of the body, Ms. Haseoka, is the representative of [For W] and has a spare key to the victim's apartment.
• The Chief, Shiraishi, decides to involve Units 2 and 4 in the investigation due to the complexity of the case.
• The Chief receives a visit from Section Chief Okamoto of the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry, who tries to influence the case investigation related to [Morning Glory Tourism], a key company in their revitalization plans.

Character Developments

• Shiraishi: Shows his understanding of the case's complexity and his willingness to involve more units in the investigation. He also demonstrates his political acumen by handling Okamoto's interference diplomatically.
• Ms. Haseoka: Her alibi is questioned due to her close relationship with the victim and her possession of a spare key. She also has a band-aid on her arm, which raises suspicion.

Significant Themes

• The complexity of the case, involving a locked-room scenario and potential enemies of the victim due to her advocacy work.
• The influence of politics and economics on case investigation, as seen through Okamoto's attempt to interfere.

Character Interactions

• Shiraishi and Gen: Shiraishi provides guidance to Gen on the case, showing his experience and understanding of the situation.
• Shiraishi and Okamoto: Shiraishi navigates Okamoto's interference diplomatically, not committing to any course of action but also not directly opposing him.
• Ms. Haseoka and Akasaka: Ms. Haseoka initially tries to hide her injury but later admits to it. Akasaka increases his suspicion level based on this interaction.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Shiraishi is visited by Diet Member Shirai Akiko and her secretary Nohara Shota regarding the murder of Ms. Sakurayama from [For W].
• Shirai wants to file a complaint against a police officer from Shiraishi's station for interfering with [For W]'s operations and summoning a key witness without evidence.
• Shirai insists that the murder is due to [For W]'s righteous actions offending people and corporations, and the investigation should focus on external factors.
• Okamoto and Shiraishi suspect that Shirai is trying to influence the investigation for political gain, possibly due to her secretary's manipulation.
• Shiraishi learns that Shirai is backed by Secretary-General Mibe of the Progress Party, who is planning to push her to become a Minister of State.

Character Developments

• Shiraishi Kuro: Maintains his calm and composed demeanor despite the unexpected visit and pressure from influential figures. He shows tactical diplomacy in handling Shirai and Nohara.
• Shirai Akiko: Revealed to be a former TV anchor with significant public appeal but limited political acumen. She appears to be a pawn in Secretary-General Mibe's political game.
• Nohara Shota: Shirai's secretary, who seems to be the real power behind her political career. He is polite, calculating, and maintains a respectful distance from Shiraishi.

Significant Themes

• Political influence and corruption
• The manipulation of public opinion and approval ratings
• The tension between political expediency and justice

Character Interactions

• Shiraishi vs. Shirai: Shiraishi remains composed and professional, while Shirai is aggressive and demanding, leading to a tense interaction.
• Shiraishi vs. Nohara: Shiraishi is initially unaware of Nohara's influence, leading to a misunderstanding. However, they maintain a respectful distance from each other.
• Okamoto vs. Shirai: Okamoto becomes agitated when Shirai brings up workplace sexual harassment, hinting at a personal connection to the case.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Sakurayama Rika, an organizer at [For W] and an employee at [Morning Glory Tourism], was found strangled to death in her home, with the door locked from the inside.
• The time of death was between 11 AM and 1 PM on November 5th. There was no sign of property loss.
• Haseoka Kanko, a representative from [For W], discovered the body and had a history of conflicts with Sakurayama due to Sakurayama's radical advocacy methods.
• Sakurayama had joined [Morning Glory Tourism] to investigate workplace harassment claims against President Kosaka Junya.
• Sakurayama's radical methods led her to report and expose harassers, including a section chief who was forced to resign after she threatened to expose his extramarital affair.

Character Developments

• Haseoka Kanko: Had fierce arguments with Sakurayama and threatened to suspend her duties. She discovered the body and had a spare key to Sakurayama's home.
• Sakurayama Rika: Known for her radical methods in advocating for others, often disregarding her own safety. She joined [Morning Glory Tourism] to gather evidence against President Kosaka.
• President Kosaka Junya: Imposed a gag order within [Morning Glory Tourism] to hinder the investigation into Sakurayama's death and the workplace harassment claims.

Significant Themes

• Radical advocacy and its consequences
• Workplace harassment and the struggle for justice
• The tension between legal methods and the desire for quick results in investigations

Character Interactions

• Haseoka Kanko and Sakurayama Rika: Their conflict escalated to the point where Haseoka threatened to suspend Sakurayama's duties, and Sakurayama planned to replace Haseoka as the organization representative.
• Sakurayama Rika and President Kosaka Junya: Sakurayama's investigation into workplace harassment claims put her at odds with Kosaka, who imposed a gag order to hinder her efforts.
• Detective Akasaka and Section Chief Kunikida: Akasaka's illegal evidence collection was criticized by Kunikida, who emphasized the importance of legal methods in investigations.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Shiraishi calls Ayako to confirm if [For W] intended to change its organizational representative before.
• Ayako discovers that Ms. Sakurayama was likely to become the new representative, despite some major sponsors' disapproval.
• The next day, Okazaki Mio reveals that President Kosaka of [Morning Glory Tourism] might have a spare key to Sakurayama's house, suggesting he could be the murderer.
• Shiraishi suspects that [For W]'s activity reports might differ from the information they provided to the police.

Character Developments

• Ayako demonstrates her investigative skills and willingness to help Shiraishi.
• Okazaki Mio shows remorse and cooperates with the police after initially withholding information.
• Shiraishi displays his strategic thinking and intuition in suspecting [For W]'s hidden activities.
• Akasaka's investigation into potential suspects becomes more focused due to Shiraishi's guidance.

Significant Themes

• The use of "improper means" to achieve "proper ends" and its potential consequences.
• The tension between personal justice and adherence to the law.
• The manipulation and control of information by organizations.

Character Interactions

• Shiraishi and Ayako collaborate on gathering information, showing trust and mutual respect.
• Shiraishi and Kunikida share a silent understanding regarding the case's direction.
• Akasaka and Shiraishi have a mentor-mentee moment, with Shiraishi guiding Akasaka's investigation.
• Okazaki and Makotaka's interaction leads to a crucial breakthrough in the case.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Shiraishi and Ayako have dinner together, discussing the 1998 murder case retrial.
• Shiraishi Emergency Arrests Kosaka Junya, but the lead turns cold the next day.
• Haseoka Kanko voluntarily cooperates with the investigation, revealing details about the spare key.

Character Developments

• Shiraishi: Shows proactive approach to seeking justice, even when facing setbacks.
• Ayako: Demonstrates empathy and understanding towards Chairman Ono's perspective.
• Kosaka Junya: Initially uncooperative, but backs down after spending a night in detention.
• Haseoka Kanko: Initially reluctant, but eventually cooperates with the investigation.

Significant Themes

• The pursuit of justice and truth, even when facing obstacles.
• The complexity of human relationships and motivations.
• The importance of thorough investigation and considering all possibilities.

Character Interactions

• Shiraishi and Ayako: Share a meal and discuss the 1998 murder case retrial, showing mutual respect and understanding.
• Shiraishi and Kosaka Junya: Shiraishi's Emergency Arrest of Kosaka Junya highlights the power dynamic between them.
• Haseoka Kanko and the investigators: Haseoka's voluntary cooperation with the investigation shows her willingness to help find the truth, while the investigators remain cautious and thorough in their questioning.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Forensic tests suggest the skin tissue under the corpse's fingernails doesn't belong to Haseoka.
• Haseoka reveals Sakurayama's history of false accusations and problematic cases.
• The investigation shifts towards those who had grudges against Sakurayama.
• The Beika Police Station is overwhelmed with tasks to verify alibis and investigate related cases.

Character Developments

• Haseoka: Shows remorse for not stopping Sakurayama's dangerous behavior and reveals her protective stance towards her.
• Shiraishi: Demonstrates leadership by coordinating tasks and handling complaints from other police stations.

Significant Themes

• The consequences of false accusations and the justice system's response.
• The burden of empathy and the struggle to maintain boundaries.
• The challenges of a large-scale investigation and the need for coordination.

Character Interactions

• Haseoka and Shiraishi: Haseoka shares Sakurayama's past with Shiraishi, leading to a better understanding of the case.
• Shiraishi and Gina: Gina cooks for Shiraishi, showing concern for his well-being, while Shiraishi seeks her help in cleaning his windows, hinting at a growing familiarity between them.
• Shiraishi and Yamada/Gen: Shiraishi delegates tasks to Yamada and Gen, showing trust in their abilities and his role as a leader.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Jiangbu, a high-altitude cleaner, is hired by Shiraishi to clean his apartment.
• Yamada discovers a bag of white powder at the crime scene, which Shiraishi identifies as dust.
• Jiangbu eavesdrops on Shiraishi and Yamada, leading to his suspicion.
• Jiangbu climbs into the crime scene apartment, where he is caught by Shiraishi and Yamada.
• Jiangbu confesses to the murder, driven by anger over his son's wrongful conviction.

Character Developments

• Shiraishi: Shows keen observational skills and deductive reasoning, connecting the surname "Jiangbu" to a past case. He understands and acknowledges Jiangbu's motive but remains committed to his duty as a police officer.
• Jiangbu: Initially appears honest and competent, but his true motive for the murder is revealed. His anger and resentment towards the victim grow over time, leading to his confession.

Significant Themes

• Anger and Resentment: Jiangbu's unaddressed anger and resentment towards the victim lead him to commit murder.
• Wrongful Conviction: The murder is motivated by Jiangbu's belief that his son was wrongly convicted, highlighting the consequences of such injustices.
• Duty vs. Empathy: Shiraishi understands Jiangbu's motive but remains committed to his duty as a police officer, ultimately leading to Jiangbu's arrest.

Character Interactions

• Shiraishi and Jiangbu: Their interaction reveals Jiangbu's true motive and leads to his confession.
• Shiraishi and Yamada: They work together to set a trap for Jiangbu, with Yamada playing a crucial role in his arrest.
• Jiangbu and the Victim: Their past encounter and the victim's dismissive response to Jiangbu's confrontation fuel his anger and resentment, ultimately leading to the murder.

Key Plot Points and Events

• The Sakurayama Rika murder case is officially closed with Jiangbu Kojiro's confession.
• Chief Shiraishi orders the Life Safety Division to continue investigating workplace harassment at Morning Glory Tourism and to reopen all cases reported by For W within Beika Town.
• Diet Member Shirai and Section Chief Okamoto visit the police station to express gratitude but become restless when they learn about the ongoing investigations.
• Shiraishi confronts them, asserting that they are the real murderers hiding behind the cases, beyond the reach of the law.
• Beika Town goes nine days without a homicide, a record during Shiraishi's tenure.
• Detective Genjiro consults Shiraishi about an 18-year-old assault case involving Naohiko Saegusa, suspecting foul play in the victim's apparent suicide.

Character Developments

• Chief Shiraishi stands firm in his commitment to justice, prioritizing thorough investigations despite pressure from influential figures.
• Diet Member Shirai and Section Chief Okamoto are exposed to Shiraishi's stern reprimand, reflecting on their roles in the cases.
• Detective Genjiro demonstrates personal initiative and dedication to uncovering the truth, even using his own vacation time to investigate.

Significant Themes

• The struggle for justice and truth in the face of powerful interests.
• The consequences of covering up or mishandling cases, leading to further tragedies.
• The importance of thorough investigations and holding the guilty accountable.

Character Interactions

• Shiraishi confronts Shirai and Okamoto, exposing their roles in the cases and standing up for justice.
• Genjiro consults Shiraishi about an old case, seeking his advice and support in pursuing the truth.
• Shiraishi and Ayako discuss For W's changes and Haseoka's new approach to rights protection.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Shiraishi takes the Chief Superintendent examination, with Gen accompanying him.
• Shiraishi and Gen visit Inspector Megure to discuss a past case from 18 years ago: the death of Tanyshige Akitoshi.
• Megure reveals that he believes Tanyshige's death was not suicide, but homicide, with Saegusa Naohiko as a suspect.
• Megure shows Shiraishi a recent newspaper article connecting the Tanyshige case to the ongoing investigation of the Ono Miki murder case, which Saegusa Naohiko witnessed.
• Megure reveals that the then-Counselor in charge of the Ono Miki case was the current Deputy Director Morohoshi.

Character Developments

• Shiraishi: Shows determination to pursue the truth in the Tanyshige case, despite its sensitivity.
• Megure: Remains committed to the Tanyshige case after 18 years, hinting at personal growth and resilience.
• Saegusa Naohiko: Emerges as a key suspect in the Tanyshige case, displaying clever manipulation.

Significant Themes

• Corruption and power dynamics within the police force.
• The struggle between justice and political pressure.
• The passage of time and its impact on unsolved cases.

Character Interactions

• Shiraishi and Megure: Collaborate to discuss the Tanyshige case, with Megure providing crucial information and support.
• Shiraishi and Gen: Work together, with Shiraishi guiding and mentoring Gen.
• Megure and Saegusa Naohiko (implied): Megure's frustration with the Tanyshige case hints at his past interactions with Saegusa.

In this chapter, the investigation into the assault case involving Saegusa Naohiko and Tanishige Naoki leads detectives to reexamine the eighteen-year-old case of Tanyshige Akitoshi's death, which was initially ruled a suicide. Key points include:

Plot Points and Events

• Shiraishi celebrates his promotion with Ayako and inquires about Chairman Ono.
• Gen investigates the old case and discovers potential motives for murder.
• A mediation meeting is held between Saegusa and Tanishige's sister, but Saegusa denies knowing the Tanishige family.

Character Developments

• Shiraishi shows determination to pursue the old case despite potential obstacles.
• Gen demonstrates initiative and thoroughness in his investigation.
• Saegusa Naohiko displays evasiveness and a lack of remorse.

Significant Themes

• The pressure from above, particularly from Deputy Director Morohoshi, is a significant obstacle in the investigation.
• The detectives' determination to uncover the truth, even in the face of adversity.

Character Interactions

• Shiraishi and Ayako's relationship remains ambiguous but friendly.
• Gen and Saegusa's tense interaction during the mediation meeting.
• The detectives' teamwork and shared determination to solve the case.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Saegusa Naohiko, a suspect in the Taniguchi Akitoshi Death Case, becomes brazen and confident in his alibi during the case discussion.
• He threatens the Beika Police Station, but Chief Shiraishi responds by saying he has doubts about Saegusa's alibi and wants to speak with Deputy Director Morohoshi.
• Saegusa contacts Morohoshi, who reassures him but doesn't discuss specifics.
• Officer Shiraishi contacts Hideo Eri, Ran's mother, about a case she's handling, arranging to meet her at a coffee shop.

Character Developments

• Saegusa Naohiko shows increased confidence and arrogance, hinting at possible guilt.
• Chief Shiraishi demonstrates confidence and assertiveness in handling the case and dealing with Saegusa's threats.
• Hideo Eri is portrayed as a capable and influential lawyer, trusted by Officer Shiraishi.

Significant Themes

• Confidence and arrogance as potential indicators of guilt (Saegusa).
• Assertiveness and confidence in investigation and case handling (Chief Shiraishi).
• Trust and professional capability in legal representation (Hideo Eri).

Character Interactions

• Saegusa Naohiko and Chief Shiraishi: Tense and confrontational, with Saegusa issuing threats and Shiraishi responding with confidence and doubt about Saegusa's alibi.
• Officer Shiraishi and Hideo Eri: Professional and efficient, with Shiraishi contacting Eri about a case she's handling and arranging a meeting.
• Officer Shiraishi and Yumi: Friendly and informal, with Yumi stopping Shiraishi's car to warn him about a car following him.