Batman/Detective Conan crossover 31-32

 
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The Detective Prince

Chapter 31

Card of Deception

Pressure flourished throughout the body. The burning sensation spiked as he pushed the bar up, resting it into place. Next were the legs, making a few rounds through the track to keep the heart at work. Once satisfied he walked it out, allowing for the body to fall back into rhythm. The water dropped from the pipe, splashing to the soreness of his back, slightly shifting as it did. He dried quickly while tossing the towel to his neck once finished.

He zipped up, avoiding the coolness of the night after exiting from the side door. He resulted to walk, taking a deep breath of the city air to find his eyes close for a brief second. Then it hit, strapping to the side of his ankle. He felt himself flip upside down, taking to the sky above. There was only one thing he could think to do, scream. This lasted for all but a few seconds, coming face to face with the man he'd heard of just a few nights ago.

"You're...you're Red Robin." He shuddered with fear.

"Hello Rick, I hope you enjoyed your little work out."

"How'd you.. know my...my name?" Rick asked in between gulps.

"Better drop the whimpering, and make it quick," Red Robin scold. "We need to talk, business."

"What do you want with me?"

"I know you're one with the Black Yangs, but what I want to know is what you were doing at that bowling center."

"And why should I tell you?"

"So now you wanna be a tough guy," Red Robin said pulling him in closer. "That's warning one, three strikes you're out."

"Why are questioning me anyway," Rick asked. "The Outworlders are the ones who want you dead!"

"Wrong, they're allies of mine," Red Robin stated. "Brutho loves to keep sheer talent close to the chest."

"You're bluffing," Rick remarked. "No way would Brutho sell out to someone like you."

Red Robin smiled, snapping his finger in the process.

"You shouldn't make assumptions, especially when you have no idea what you speak," An imposing voice spoke from the shadows. "Now tell Red Robin what we want to hear."

"I can't believe it," Rick said in disbelief. "You really are working together."

"That'll be enough stalling," Brutho grunted. "Now talk, we don't have all night."

"Why are you asking me," Rick questioned. "Someone from your group ordered the hit."

"Someone who shouldn't have," Brutho stated. "And I want to find out who."

"We're betting this guy's under cover," Red Robin said. "Playing both sides of the game if you know what mean."

"Let me guess, a Black Yang."

"Have any idea who we should be looking for?" Red Robin asked.

"Not a clue," Rick replied. "This is my first time hearing anything on this matter."

"Then answer us this," Brutho said still to the shadows. "Why were you at the bowling alley?"

"Go to hell."

He felt himself drop toward the streets, screaming to the top of his lungs the whole way down. He came to a stop within a few inches of the ground, flying back up into the night. Red Robin grabbed him to the shirt, glaring into his eyes.

"That's strike two, trust me when I say you don't want to hit a three."

"You almost killed me you freak!"

"Next time I wont reel you back up," Red Robin snapped. "Now talk, what were you doing up at the bowling alley?"

"I...I was called to meet up there," Rick said. "Some guy called, never heard of him."

"Name, give me a name." Red Robin demanded tightening his grip to his shirt.

"Um..he...he goes by Nightel," Rick blurted. "He works at an antique shop, the one located right by the North/East cemetery."

"Have you met with Nightel before?"

"Was supposed to," Rick admitted. "Saw him talking with some guy in a suit of black, long blond hair, a pretty man if you will."

"Gin." Red Robin muttered.

"Things got a little heated between the two, so I decided to leave."

"So when did you reschedule?"

"He said to meet him up at the bowling center this morning, said the boss man had something for me," Rick replied. "When I got there they were already dead, I swear."

"So then you called the police?"

"That's right, I had no choice," Rick stated. "My finger prints were already to the front doors, didn't want to risk the police tracking me down as a suspect."

"This boss man you mentioned, does he have a name?" Red Robin asked.

"Most outsiders know him as the Oni of Tigers, but those in the circle know different," Rick said. "The White Tiger is what he's really called, no one really ever sees the guy though."

He stood to his feet, staring into the distance.

"So you'll let me live?" Rick asked.

"Of course." Red Robin replied letting him fall back to the streets.

He landed into a pile of garbage, rolling to his side as the grappler released from his ankle. He turned his head back to the shadows, a smile coming to his face.

"Well played Kudo, our little trick of deception worked after all." Red Robin complimented.

Conan stepped from the darkness, lowering the bowtie from his lips. He tied it back to his shirt, looking over to Tim who stared to the night sky.

"RR...are you ok?" Conan asked with concern.

He turned to him, a blank look in his eyes.

"You weren't really going to drop him to the street, were you?"

"What's wrong, did I scare you?" Red Robin asked.

Conan didn't reply. He turned back to the city, thinking about all they'd just learned.

"Well if Batman can't make it, then why not one of your other allies," Conan suggested. "Don't you know Superman, you could call him in."

"I don't think this situation quite calls for such extreme measures."

"You may be right in that regard," Conan said. "I guess half of me just wants to meet the guy, I've seen some of the incredible things he's done on TV."

It became quiet, the sound of the traffic below the only thing to be heard.

"He looks so tense, so focused, then again...if people were dieing because of me I'd probably be the same way."

Conan took a few steps forward, coming to a stop at his side. They both stood, just gazing to the stars above.

"So what happens next?" Conan asked.

"We pay this Nightel guy a visit," Red Robin replied. "He may indeed be our bridge guy to hook in some prey."

"Should I even know what that means?" Conan asked.

"You will," Red Robin assured looking to him. "I'm going to head back to the base to check up on the scan, do you want a lift down?"

"No thanks, I think I can manage."

"Suit yourself," Red Robin said pulling the grappler from his side. "Don't forget to give Heiji a rundown of what we've gained from our little interrogation."

"Of course." Conan said with a nod.

He watched as he swung off, taking a step to the ledge. He wasn't sure what to feel about the nights events. On one hand they had gathered information of gold, but something bothered him from within.

"I'll admit, he scared me tonight...but in all the wrong ways."

He slid his hands to his pocket, thinking of what he could possibly do.

"Maybe it's just a little stress," Conan thought bringing a hand to his chin. "And I think I know just what to do to cheer him up."

He walked the streets that next morning, delighted by the sun shining high and bright. His hands hanged from the sides of his pocket as he approached, opening the first door. The sound of music echoed through the walls as he made his way up, giving the door a knock. It slid open a few seconds later, Ran standing with a cloth to her hand.

"Good morning," Heiji said with the tip of his hat. "Would Conan happen to be around by any chance."

"You just missed him, he took off with his friends about ten minutes ago," Ran informed widening the door. "You're welcome to come in and wait, Conan said he wouldn't be to long."

"I don't see why not," Heiji accepted stepping in. "I have no where to be."

"Great, I could use a little company." Ran said closing the door behind him.

"Where's your father, isn't he around?" Heiji asked.

"He'll be back this afternoon some time," Ran replied. "In the mean time would you like some tea, I was just about to whip some up."

"Sure, that would be nice."

"Good," Ran said glad to hear. "Have a seat at the table, I'll have it ready in the next few."

It was another one of those days, beginning things off with a little TV. He wasn't exactly watching it, but kept the tempo at a relaxing rate. A knock came to the door, turning his attention away from where he stared. He sat up from the chair, having a good idea who'd come to see him.

"Surprised to see you hear this early," Tim said opening the door to see Conan holding a soccer ball in place. "Did you happen to get in touch with Heiji this morning?"

"Not yet, but I will."

"So what are you doing here," Tim asked. "Did you just want to hang out or something?"

"Yea, I was kinda thinking something else."

"Ok...and what might that be?"

"My friends were wondering if they could come up," Conan said with a laugh. "You know, just to check out your room and stuff."

"Sure...," Tim replied rubbing the back of his head. "I don't see why not, bring them right on up."

"I knew he'd say yes." Mitsuhiko said jumping from the side.

"Hi Tim." Ayumi waved as they all walked in past him.

"Ok, guess they're already here." Tim said watching as they all made their way in.

Ai was the last to step in, Tim closing the door behind her.

"So what made you guys want to come and visit?" Tim asked.

"It was actually Conan's idea," Mitsuhiko said looking over his shoulder. "We were about to go to the park and play, but he suggested we come here instead."

"This was your idea?" Tim muttered looking down to Conan who had a smile to his face.

"I thought you could use the company."

"You could have called first." Tim said with the cross of his arms.

Genta walked back over to the two, swinging the morning paper from one side to the other. Both looked to him with the lift of a brow.

"Have you read the morning paper yet?" Genta asked looking up.

"Hadn't gotten around to it yet," Tim replied. "Why, is there something I should see?"

"Then I'm pretty sure you haven't heard, the cops are on the look out for Red Robin," Genta said pulling the paper from its wrapper. "But that's not all, check out what took the headlines."

Both Tim and Conan's eyes sprung wide at what they saw, reading out at the same time.

"Kid Thief Turned Killer!"

Ayumi and Mitsuhiko ran over at what they heard, gazing down to the fine print.

"It can't be," Mitsuhiko exclaimed. "Kaitou Kid would never kill anyone!"

Tim grabbed the paper, giving it a quick read.

"Says here during last nights heist up at a jewelery store he was cornered," Tim read continuing to skim. "Bingo, it says the only way he had out was to open fire, killing three in the process of doing so."

"Which jewelery store?" Mitsuhiko asked.

"The one up at the mall." Tim replied.

Conan leaned to the wall, looking to Tim who glimpsed back.

"I don't believe that for a second, and from the way he spoke, nor does Tim," Conan thought to himself. "I guess the only way to find out is to get a showing with the Kid Thief himself."

"How come you didn't tell us earlier?" Mitsuhiko asked.

"I thought you guys already knew," Genta replied. "It was all over the news this morning."

"It must be some kind of set up," Ayumi said in denial. "And now it will be up to the Detective Boys to find out what really happened."

"Yea," Genta said jumping in agreement. "What do think Conan?"

"I believe he's innocent," Conan stated. "But we'll have to go to the crime scene if we're to prove his innocence, not to mention the fact we don't really have much details of what happened."

He shifted his head to the side to find her standing to the chair, looking over the layout of the desk. Tim handed the paper back to Genta, slowly making his way over.

"You're a little quiet over here," Tim said standing over her. "Is everything ok?"

She glimpsed to him, then back to the desk.

"Everything is so neat, organized," Ai stated giving the rest of the room a look. "Without the knowledge of you being the one living here, I'd say a women was occupying this room."

He found himself lost for words, Ai jumping down from the chair and heading back toward the others. He turned to see Conan struggling to contain his laughter.

"A woman...should I take that as a compliment?"

"We don't have any time to lose," Ayumi said in command. "Let's get going."

"We might have to hold off on that," Conan said standing from the wall. "It's a big case, so I'm betting the crime scene is still filled with investigating police officers."

"Conan's right," Mitsuhiko said. "They might not let us in, even if we ask."

"So what are we supposed to do?" Ayumi questioned.

"We could try asking Inspector Megure," Conan suggested. "If we're lucky he might be willing to give us a few details."

"Great, let's give it a go." Genta said.

"Tim will you come with us," Mitsuhiko asked. "I'm willing to bet he'll be more inclined to sharing details if you're there."

"Yea, we'd love for you to come!" Ayumi added.

"Sure, I don't see why not," Tim said with a nod. "Why don't you all head down stairs, I'll join you in a few."

"Try not to make it to long," Conan snickered. "We both know how women can be."

"Don't have to worry about that Sidney," Tim smirked. "I'm usually good when it comes to time."

Conan gulped turning for the door. Ayumi walked to the side of him, whispering into his ear as they walked.

"Conan, did he just call you Sidney?"

"It's a, a code name," Conan thought up. "It's the username I use when playing Dungeons and Wizards."

"That's a strange name for you to pick," Ayumi said. "Sounds more like something a girl would use."

Conan simply laughed as they exited the room, trying to avoid any further conversation all together. They waited to the front of the apartment complex, hanging to a bench near the side of the street. Conan juggled the ball from one foot to the other, a speeding car driving past briefly catching his attention. It disappeared around the corner within seconds. The entry doors slid open with Tim walking their way, sliding a hat to the top of his head.

"You five look all down and relaxed now," Tim said joining the group. "You guys still want to go?"

"Of course we do," Ayumi said jumping down from the bench. "We were just waiting for you."

"I hope you guys don't mind if we walk, it's only about a mile from here."

"Fine by me," Mitsuhiko said in response. "We walk to wherever we need to be most of the time anyway."

"Then it's settled, make sure you all stay close when we get there," Tim instructed. "I have a good feeling it'll be crowded."

"A little redundant don't you think, the mall's usually always crowded." Conan said kicking the ball up into his arms.

"I was actually referring to any added security or news casters."

"I stand corrected." Conan said turning to walk.

They made their way up and down the streets, taking to the shaded areas at any given opportunity. A soft wind blew by, brushing past the sides of their cheeks. He couldn't help but look to her, a feeling of loneliness coming to him in return. It was that catch of the unknown that drew his attention. She glimpsed back, shifting his eyes straight to avoid any kind of confrontation. The mall came into view after minutes of walking with Conan feeling the vibration of his phone from within his pants.

"Hattori's trying to call, I'll have to ring him back after we finish up our little visit."

They entered in through the mechanical sliding doors, coming to a stop after taking a couple steps.

"Where's the jewelery store where the shooting took place?" Genta asked.

"Somewhere on the third floor," Tim replied catching sight of an escalator. "There, we can make our way up from there."

Tim took to the front, the five of them walking right behind. It was no surprise when they arrived up. Police officers could be seen blocking off part of the third floor, pending the investigation they were still conducting.

"Anyone see Inspector Megure?" Conan asked.

"He's right over there." Ayumi pointed being the first to see him.

The six of them walked into his direction, hoping they could gain a little light on the situation. Juzo turned while they approached, holding his hand out as to instruct them to stop.

"What are you kids doing over here," Juzo asked. "This is a crime scene, this section is off limits until we gather all the data we need concerning the crime."

"We're not here to get in the way Inspector," Tim said. "We were just wondering if you could give us a little information on what you think happened."

"There's no way Kaitou Kid would ever harm anyone." Genta added.

"I'm sorry to say, but I can't give you any information relating to this matter as of right now," Juzo stated. "You'll get the details once it hits the news."

"Inspector Megure you don't think Kaitou Kid killed anyone, do you?" Ayumi asked stepping to the front.

"I'm sorry to say, but it sure is looking that way."

Ayumi's shoulders dropped with sorrow, Conan placing a hand to her right shoulder.

"Don't give up just yet," Conan calmingly said. "I'm sure we'll get more opportunities to help clear his name."

She smiled, giving him a warm hug.

"You're right, there's always tommarrow."

"So what do we do from here?" Genta asked as they turned back for the escalator.

"There's nothing we can do," Mitsuhiko replied. "We'll just have to wait until the police give a full scale report."

He could see the disappointment in their eyes as they headed back down, uncertainty looming over them. An idea popped into his head after reaching the first floor.

"I saw an ice cream shop just outside of here," Tim said. "It's hot out, and since we have a ways to go before getting back would you guys like to get some?"

"Yea!"

Tim smiled, knowing they couldn't pass up the opportunity. He lead the way, entering to the coolness of the ice cream shop.

"Are there any limitations to what we can choose?" Mitsuhiko asked.

"No, go right on ahead," Tim answered. "You can even have seconds if you're not satisfied."

"Well at least something came out of this little trip." Conan thought giving the menu a look.

He could see her alone, standing off to the side with her back rested to the wall. He decided to walk over, putting on his best smile.

"Hey Ai, aren't you going to get something," Tim asked gaining no response. "Ai...?"

"I prefer Haibara." Ai softly spoke.

"Ok Haibara, would you like some ice cream?"

"No thank you," Ai replied. "I'll have to pass on your offer, as I'm not feeling up to anything cold right now."

Tim turned around, stepping back up to the others who stood patiently in line.

"She seems so suspicious of me, I saw similar signs before Kudo was able to deduce who I am," Tim thought to himself. "I won't make the same mistake of ignoring it, and I think I know just what to do to get her off my trail."

The water dropped from the fossette, landing from one dish to the next. She hummed as she washed, looking back to Heiji who sat to the wall in silence. She dried her hands once finished, walking over and taking a seat to the side of him.

"As quiet as you've been over here you'd almost think you were working a case." Ran jokingly said.

Heiji smiled with the lift of his head.

"How long do you think until Conan returns," Heiji asked. "I've tried calling, but he hasn't answer."

"I wouldn't worry, he's probably just up at the park playing ball," Ran said. "He probably has his phone off."

"That's real smart, what if it's an emergency?" Heiji questioned while resting his head to the wall.

"Oh please, what's so urgent that it can't wait?"

"I was putting it in wider terms," Heiji stated. "Not necessarily right now, but incase of something happening down the line."

"That's what I thought," Ran said sitting up. "Why don't we turn on the TV, I'm pretty sure there's something on we both can enjoy."

She flipped through the channels, coming to a stop on one of the many movie channels.

"How about this," Ran suggested. "I haven't seen this one before."

"Works for me, I haven't seen this either," Heiji said looking over to her. "I'm just curious, why are you here anyway?"

"Excuse me?"

"It's a beautiful day out, why would you want to be inside," Heiji asked. "Shouldn't you be hanging out with a friend?"

"I did plenty of that after my jog yesterday," Ran said. "Besides, I still have to attend to my room here in a bit."

"They're lucky to have you around the house," Heiji said turning back to the TV. "You really do stay on top of things."

"I try to anyway." Ran said proudly.

"Well if you finish early, you might be able to go out and have a little fun."

The door cracked open that next second, the two of them turning to see Conan enter the room.

"See, I told you he wouldn't be long."

"I got your call," Conan admitted. "I was just a to busy to answer at the time."

"It's alright," Heiji said. "Ran made for good company in the mean time."

Ran smiled at his comment as she stepped up from the table.

"Where are you going," Heiji asked. "Don't you want to watch the movie."

"I'll catch it another time, I'm going to get started on my room," Ran said heading that way. "Who knows, maybe I'll have a little spare time later."

"Huh, so she's taking me up on my advice."

Conan removed his shoes before walking over to have a seat next to him.

"So what did you want to talk about?"

"I was wondering how last night went," Heiji replied facing him. "What did Drake call you about."

Conan looked back to make sure Ran wasn't near, turning back to him after everything was a go.

"We conducted a little interrogation last night," Conan informed. "He had me use my voice changing tie to implement Brutho's voice into fooling some guy named Rick."

"Did it work?"

Conan nodded.

"I saw a different side of him last night," Conan said with darkness in his eyes. "It was almost as if he was a different person up there."

"Who, Drake?"

"That's why I brought my friends to his room today," Conan stated. "I was hoping they'd be able to lighten him up some."

"You think it worked?" Heiji asked.

"I'd say so."

"So what exactly did you learn from this guy?"

"He pointed us to a guy named Nightel," Conan replied. "Owns an antique shop up near the North-East cemetery."

"I had an idea that Rick guy would have some information," Heiji said. "What's Tim doing now?"

"Said he'd be heading back to the base to check up on something."

"I don't see why we shouldn't join him," Heiji said getting back to his feet. "It's not like we're doing anything."

Conan stood up in agreement. He walked back to the door, sliding his shoes back to his feet.

"Hey Ran, Conan and I are going to head to the arcade if that's ok with you." Heiji called out.

"Have fun." Ran replied peaking her head from her room.

Conan smiled in return, the two walking out the front door. They arrived to the base over thirty minutes later to find him to the back of the room pushing the weight bar into place.

"Hope we're not interrupting anything." Heiji said as the door closed behind them.

"No, you guys are fine," Tim said sitting up with the stretch of his arms. "I was just finishing up."

His phone began to ring to the side of the mouse, Heiji catching sight of the incoming caller.

"Wait a minute, you never told me you had her number," Heiji said removing his hands from his pocket. "What exactly is going on here?"

"What are you talking about?"

"Don't play dumb," Heiji said handing him his phone. "Kazuha is calling you, mind telling me how she got your number?"

"I had no knowledge of this." Conan quickly stated removing himself from the equation.

"She asked for it," Tim replied. "What was I supposed to say, no?"

"How many times have you two talked over the phone?"

"None, this is her first time calling."

"You sure were quick to reply, want to try again."

"I'm telling you the truth." Tim swore.

His phone continued to ring, placing it into his pocket.

"Aren't you going to answer that?" Conan asked with a laugh.

Tim rolled his eyes to him in response. He let it go, getting straight to business.

"Kudo told me about some guy named Nightel who owns an antique shop," Heiji said as Tim took a seat in front of the computer. "When do you plan on having a word with this guy?"

"Tonight." Tim replied.

"You said there was something else going on back in Gotham," Conan said walking to the left side of him. "You were going to tell me right before that man was killed at the dance center, I'm just wondering what it was."

"Two of the inmates who were stationed at an asylum known as Arkham escaped," Tim said turning on the screen. "That, or they were busted out."

"These guys must be pretty dangerous if it bothers you like this." Heiji said.

"Twoface has yet to make a move, but it's Hug Strange who concerns me the most."

"Hugo Strange," Conan questioned. "Is he an enemy of Batman?"

"Yes and no."

Heiji and Conan looked to him in confusion.

"What do you mean, yes and no?" Conan asked.

"Hugo sees Batman as the ultimate status, the highest peak a man can reach," Tim began. "Which is also why he feels Batman is a goal, to obtain from whom ever may possess it."

"Ok, I don't think Kudo and I are quite following," Heiji said. "Could you perhaps speak in terms that will allow for us to understand?"

"If possible." Conan added.

"In short, Hugo sees the mantle of Batman as something that should be earned," Tim said sitting back. "Which in that case would make Bruce Wayne his enemy."

"Wait, hold on a second," Heiji said trying to understand. "But isn't Bruce Batman?"

"That's correct."

"But that doesn't make any sense," Heiji exclaimed. "How can you praise one but hate the other, they're the same person."

"You're wasting your time trying to understand, it's all psyological." Tim stated. "He's like the Joker in that regard."

"Then try explaining it to us." Conan said.

"It's not that simple," Tim said resting his chin to his hands. "There is no guessing or deducting what a mind like his thinks, what he'll do."

"Then how do you go about handling someone like that?" Heiji asked.

"The only way I was taught, being prepared," Tim replied. "Just be glad you've never had to deal with a criminal mind like that, and you know something...I hope neither of you ever have to."

It fell silent between the three. Heiji turned to the side with Conan leaning to the wall. Tim flipped on the computer screen to find the scan was just over seventy two percent from over from being completed. He took a deep breath before standing from the chair.

"Heiji when do you plan on going back to Osaka?" Tim asked.

"Gotta head back tommarrow morning," Heiji replied. "I have Monday off, but schools back in session come Tuesday."

"Any chance you can speak with Inspector Megure tonight," Tim asked. "I'd like a few extra details on that case involving Kaitou Kid."

"Sure, no problem," Heiji answered. "I'll head over to the station tonight before he closes up."

"And I'll pay our good friend Nightel a visit," Tim said. "No one else needs to die because of me."

"What about the Black Organization?" Heiji asked.

"We'll work our way to them," Tim assured. "But first let us deal with what's laid out on the table."

"I'll call you with any information I receive from Megure." Heiji said walking for the door.

"Good, I'm looking forward to that."

Conan walked at his side, glimpsing back to Tim once more before the entrance slid shut. Heiji put a hand to his shoulder as they walked, seeing the uneasiness in his eyes.

"So...how'd the interrogation go?"

"Trust me when I say I didn't want to do it," Conan replied. "But he said it would work, and it did."

"Sorry your little plan to cheer him up failed."

"Like I didn't notice." Conan said in disappointment.

"You can't really blame him you know," Heiji said looking to the street light. "He's under a lot of pressure right now, and that includes both ends."

The light hit red, allowing for the two of them to cross over.

"I have some things to do before I leave, so I guess I'll see you later."

"Maybe we'll head up to Osaka next time." Conan said.

"I'll be looking forward to that."

Conan walked in the opposite direction, deep in thought the whole way home. The moon set in nicely with a clear night sky. He gathered all his things for tommarrow, lining them up to the side of his bed. He then strolled out to the main room, taking a seat a few inches away from Kogoro who watched TV.

"You've been awfully quiet since I got home, is something wrong?" Kogoro asked.

"I'm fine, just tired from all the pitching and running today." Conan replied.

"Maybe you should think about reading a book some time, that'll help you avoid all that running."

Deep down he knew that wasn't the case. He had set out to calm him, lighten him from all that was going on. He had failed, but wasn't ready to give in. Conan continued to think, occasionally interrupted by Kogoro's laughs from the program he watched.

"Put yourself in his shoes Shinichi, what could you do to keep yourself balanced...what would keep you from going over the edge?"

The front door flew open seconds later, Ran walking in with a light bag strapped to her shoulder.

"Where are you coming from?" Kogoro asked.

"From the water park," Ran answered. "I went along with Sonoko after cleaning up the house."

"Any guys moping around the two of you?" Kogoro asked suspiciously.

"We were fine dad, you worry to much." Ran said removing her shoes before joining them at the table.

Conan looked to her, knowing he had just found the person.

"If there's anyone who can cheer anyone up it's Ran," Conan thought to himself. "I'm sure she can come up with something."

She noticed him looking to her, a smile forming in return.

"How was your day Conan," Ran asked. "Did you have fun at the arcade?"

"It was a lot of fun," Conan replied. "I was just wondering, if we could do something fun this week."

"Fun," Ran questioned. "What did you have in mind?"

"Something we could do as a group, with my friends to." Conan added.

Ran gave it some thought, not coming up with anything off the top of her head.

"I'll see what I can find," Ran said. "I'm pretty sure there's something we can do this coming week."

"Thanks Ran."

She patted him on the shoulder while looking back to the TV. Conan did the same, already feeling a little better about the situation.

A car blazed by as the sign flipped, signaling opening hours were now over. He walked through the darkness, taking to the back of the store. He took a seat to the chair while grabbing a brass cup, a cloth in his free hand. He began rubbing away, making sure it was presentable for the coming day. A slight crack could be heard. He looked up to see nothing.

"Gotta stop closing so late, these night shifts can really get to you."

He quickly went back to work, rubbing from inside to out. The sound could be heard again, but this time louder. He looked up as he found himself forced from the chair, slammed to the wall with overtaking force. He stared to his eyes, fear taking over in that instant.

"We need to talk, Nightel."

To Be Continued

The Detective Prince

Chapter 32

A day of Fun

Everything stiffened, stillness taking over from shock. He slid him up the wall while moving in, keeping his eyes leveled with his the whole time.

"So, it's you"

"And you know why I'm here."

"Listen, I don't know anything."

"Wanna try again?"

"Your choice if you don't want to believe me."

Red Robin pulled back slamming Nightel to the wall once more, letting him fall to the ground. He reached into his jacket, bringing his finger to the trigger with a grin. Nightel slowly pushed up to have the staff spring open, a blade popping from the end right to his neck.

"Don't even try it." Red Robin warned holding the staff tight in hand.

"Think you're faster than a bullet?"

"Don't have to be, just faster than you," Red Robin replied. "And that I most certainly am."

He gave it a seconds thought, pulling the gun from within his jacket tossing it to the ground.

"What is it you want to know?"

"You arranged to meet at the bowling center with a man named Rick, a Black Yang."

"What does that have to do with you?" Nightel asked.

"Someone left a message to the back of the building," Red Robin answered. "I'm quite sure you know what it said, being the fact you're an Outworlder."

Nightel looked to him in shock.

"The tatts along your arm gave it away," Red Robin stated. "So what's the deal in you calling out to a Black Yang, trying to frame him for the murder?"

"Why even ask if you already knew?"

"Mind telling me who killed all those people?" Red Robin asked putting his staff away.

"Don't know," Nightel replied. "That was someone they brought in."

"They?"

"Some group Brutho has on the payroll," Nightel answered. "It's all a little hush hush right now, but I hear they're good at what they do."

"You ever meet with any of these... people?"

"Yea, just a couple days ago," Nightel stated. "The guy was a little over dressed considering the weather, wore a hat, dressed in all black."

"Was his name Gin?" Red Robin asked cutting him off.

"You know the answer to everything, don't you?"

"Were you planning on meeting with him again?"

"No, but I did hear him talking on the phone about an upcoming hit."

"Can I get the who, when, and where?"

Nightel stood up straight, still recovering from the encounter with the wall. He took a few moments to rehash what he had heard, down to the last detail.

"Next Thursday at the Billian hotel, the target is some high class car dealer from out of state," Nightel said reaching down for the antique cup. "He was talking with a friend of mine named Freil about it, can't remember the name."

"That'll do," Red Robin said. "I can figure that for myself."

"Anything else you want to know?"

Nightel looked to see he was gone, leaving him to the darkness of the room. He sighed, pulling up the chair which had fallen during their meet.

"That about does it, no more night shifts."

The papers lay stacked to his desk, sorting them into place. A knock came to the door just after nine thirty.

"Come on in."

The door slid open, surprised at who'd come to see him.

"Hattori," Juzo questioned. "What are you doing here at this hour?"

"There was a shooting, I just have a few questions."

"You mean the one involving Kaitou Kid?"

"What were you able to gain from the crime scene," Heiji asked. "Is it clear he really killed those people?"

"It looks that way, we found some case shellings which tells us the type of gun used," Juzo informed. "But we're mainly going off of what witnesses have told us."

"Did any of the security camera's catch any of the action."

Juzo shook his head from left to right.

"They must have been disabled before the robbery."

"That figures," Heiji said. "Conan told me about a dead body found in the basement of some house where a murder took place, I was wondering what you thought of it."

"Dead body in a basement," Juzo questioned. "We found stolen goods, but there was no dead body when we checked."

"What about the bloody message written to the wall in the room he was held?" Heiji asked.

"No sign of that either," Juzo replied. "Are you sure you heard him right?"

"No body...no message to the wall, who could have disposed of them," Heiji thought. "Kudo said all the men present had been disarmed and left unconscious, could someone else have been there?"

"Hattori, are you ok?" Juzo asked after not receiving a reply.

"I'm fine, just something coming to mind."

Juzo pushed out the chair, stepping around the desk.

"You're thinking about what you saw yesterday, aren't you?"

He nodded his head, there was no use in denying it. The sights of the deceased still weighing heavily on his mind. Megure gave him a few more moments to think, taking a slight step back.

"We're doing our best to track this killer down," Juzo said. "Did you happen to follow up with Mr. Rick?"

"Our little ally already looked into that." Heiji replied.

"Oh really, what was he able to gather?"

"Minimal information, which of course lead to someone else," Heiji added. "I'm pretty sure this other guy will have some info which could help lead to finding this blade killer."

"I try not to disappoint."

The two of them turned to the sound of the voice, Red Robin dropping in from the window side to the ground.

"What did you find out?" Heiji asked.

"I know when and where there next hit will be."

"Great, we'd love if you'd share," Juzo said. "I'll have my unit ready."

"Sorry Inspector," Red Robin apologized. "But I think It'd be better if handled this one myself."

"What do you mean," Juzo questioned. "If someone's life is in danger I'm entitled to knowing who."

"Then we take the risk of them finding out you're onto them," Red Robin stated. "Then who do you think will be their target?"

"I really don't like being kept in the dark."

"You won't be for long," Red Robin noted. "This is just something I need to do alone, I'll try to make sure no one gets hurt."

"So what are you doing here anyway," Heiji asked. "I'm certain that wasn't all you came here to say."

"You're correct, I was hoping there'd be an update on the weapon used," Red Robin said looking to Megure. "Have they been able to diagnose the exact blade which was used in the killings of those people?"

"Not yet, but our lab experts are working on it."

"Good, I'll be back to check up on that," Red Robin said heading back toward the window. "Try not to worry."

With that he took off, leaving the two alone to the room like they had previously been.

"So what do you think?" Juzo asked.

"What do I think," Heiji questioned. "I think we just need to give it some time, all it may take is a little extra patience."

Heiji then walked for the door with Juzo heading back to his desk.

"Hattori," Megure called out before taking a seat. "When should I expect to see you again?"

"Good question," Heiji replied. "I guess that'll depend on what's going on back home."

"Very well detective, until next time."

Heiji nodded with the close of the door. He finished sorting the papers to his desk before calling it a night himself in the following hour.

The belt snapped into place, with the shirt sliding down atop his shoulders. Conan grabbed hold of his bag while walking out of his room.

"Now, what to have for breakfast."

He dropped his bag next to the table, making his way to the kitchen. He stood there, thinking up what he should make before going to school. Ran came from within her room that next minute, heading toward the kitchen with the morning paper in hand.

"You look like you're in a good mood," Conan commented while pouring himself a bowl of cereal. "How long have you been up?"

"For about an hour," Ran replied spreading the paper across the table. "What do you think Conan, I found something fun we can do."

He pushed the box to the side, looking down to the bold headline.

"A carnival," Conan said looking to Ran. "That's perfect."

"So do you want to go?"

"Of course," Conan replied. "When is it?"

"It starts at four thirty on Tuesday," Ran read. "And look, it's only five miles from here."

"Cool, I'll see if any of my friends want to come."

"Hope you don't mind if I invite someone."

"Go right on ahead." Conan said with a spin of the spoon.

"I knew I heard voices," Kogoro said coming from his room. "What are you two yapping about now?"

"We're going to a carnival on Tuesday," Ran replied. "Would you like to come?"

"I don't have time for something like that," Kogoro said turning for the kitchen. "All my time must be spent trying to track down and get that serial killer behind bars."

"Do you have any idea who the guy might be?" Ran asked.

"No profile yet, but we're willing to bet it's someone with experience in the use of sword play."

"Has he killed anyone else yet?"

"Not since the bowling center," Kogoro replied. "But you shouldn't be thinking about that, we'll have this wrapped up in no time."

"I hope you're right."

It didn't take him long to finish, waving bye to Ran before heading out the door. It was a cloudy morning, part of the sun being covered in it's path.

"Doesn't look like we'll get any rain," Conan thought looking to the sky. "Maybe not here, but those to the North may get a little."

He could hear screams coming from the school yard as he approached, arriving to find a jump and rope competition being held. Then he saw her, sitting to the bench alone. Conan made his way over, taking a seat next to her.

"Hey Haibara," Conan greeted. "What are you doing over here all by yourself?"

"Waiting for you," Ai replied looking to him. "We need to talk."

"Ok," Conan said with the rub of his head. "What do we need to talk about?"

"About you, and Tim," Ai said looking to the ground. "What is it between the two of you?"

"We're just friends," Conan replied. "There's really nothing for me to explain."

"I for one find it strange that someone his age would want to hang with someone yours," Ai stated. "Unless of course he knows the truth, who you really are."

"Of course not," Conan denied with a laugh. "Why would I tell him?"

"I don't know," Ai said giving it some thought. "Maybe the two of you have an arrangement of some kind."

"She's already piecing it together, now what am I supposed to say?"

Their foot steps could be heard as they pounced over, Ai and Conan joined by the rest of the group.

"Perfect timing."

"What are you guys doing out here," Mitsuhiko questioned. "Class starts in under three minutes."

"It's nice and cool out today," Conan replied. "Beats going to class early any day."

"I guess you make a point." Mitsuhiko said.

"Are any of you going to be busy tommarrow after school?" Conan asked.

"Not me." Ayumi said.

"Nor will I." Genta said.

Mitsuhiko shook his head as well.

"Why did you ask, you have something special planned?" Genta questioned.

"Well Ran and I are going to a carnival and I was wondering if you all wanted to go."

"Is that even a question, of course we will." Mitsuhiko said.

"What about you Haibara," Conan asked looking back to her. "Will you come as well?"

"You have to come, it won't be as fun without you." Ayumi said trying to convince her.

"Ok, I'll be there," Ai said sliding down from the bench. "But we better get to class before we're late."

"There's no rush," Mitsuhiko said looking to his watch. "We now have approximately two minutes until class begins."

"Well lets get going." Conan said jumping down from the bench.

They began class off running, getting right into it. He pulled the notebook from his bag as the lights to the room flashed off.

"A history lesson, just what I need."

Conan reached for his phone just after an hour and forty into class, setting it to vibrate. He slid it in between his notebook while quickly sending a message.

It was mid day, and finding a seat at this time could be challenging. Things were crowded just like any other day. He luckily found a seat to the back corner, setting up shop from there. It wasn't long after that a tray fell to the side of his, being joined by a fellow student.

"You're not slick at all." Ran said taking a seat next to him.

"What are you talking about?" Tim asked with his attention directed downward.

"I see you over there on your phone," Ran pointed out. "You know it will get taken away if they see you right?"

"Why do you think I'm sitting all the way back here," Tim questioned. "Your presence here is only going to attract others."

"What are you trying to say," Ran asked glaring over. "Trying to tell me to get lost?"

"I wasn't going to say that." Tim replied continuing to text.

"Give me that!" Ran snapped reaching out for his phone.

She grabbed a hold of his left hand, turning his wrist to see it was gone.

"Where'd your phone go?" Ran asked noticing it in his right hand.

"Bet you've never seen quickness like that before." Tim jokingly teased.

"Oh I see," Ran said with a striking smile while leaning in. "Now you're calling me slow."

"Uh oh, wrong choice of words on my part."

He breathed out in relief at the sight of Sonoko approaching from the side.

"What are you two doing sitting all the way back here?"

"He was the one sitting this far," Ran replied. "I came over and caught him playing on his phone."

"It was important." Tim stated.

"Oh really," Sonoko said taking a seat across from them. "So who were you chatting with."

"He's a...my business partner."

"Didn't know you had one." Sonoko said.

"They come and go," Tim stated. "You're always working with someone new."

"Sonoko are you doing anything after school tommarrow?" Ran asked changing the subject.

"Disregarding any homework I may have, I should be free."

"Great, then you can come to the carnival with me." Ran said.

"Sounds better than doing nothing at home."

"I was going to invite Tim to," Ran said glimpsing to him with a grunt. "That was until he started acting rude to me."

"Sorry, that wasn't my intent."

"Was that an apology I heard?" Ran asked.

"Don't push it." Tim remarked with a grin.

Ran smiled in return.

"Would you like to come along to?"

"What time is it being held?"

"Four thirty." Ran replied.

He reached into his pocket after feeling his phone vibrate. He pulled it out, beginning to text once more. Ran tapped him to the shoulder in the seconds that followed.

"So Tim, are you going to come?"

"It depends, do you want me to?" Tim asked.

"Of course I do," Ran replied with a laugh. "Why else would I have asked?"

"Just trying to be clear, considering our status just a few moments ago," Tim answered while putting his phone away. "I'll let you know by tommarrow morning."

"I hope you decide to come, I'm pretty sure there will be plenty of fun activities."

"Maybe even a little competition," Tim said digging his spoon into the mashed potatoes with a spin. "I've always loved a little competition."

Ran brought a hand to her mouth, a look of shock in her eyes.

"What's wrong?" Tim asked lifting a brow.

She didn't reply, simply pivoting her eyes for him to look. He turned to find the potatoes clamped to Sonoko's chest, slowly drifting down into her shirt.

"In no way did I mean to do that, would you like me to get that for you...or Ran could if." Tim said with a gulp. "I'm so sorry, it just flew off."

Her eyes stare glued to him, the anger all but obvious in her expression. Ran couldn't help but giggle, bringing a smile to Tim which didn't help.

"Now I get an enraged Sonoko, what a day this is turning out to be."

The bell had rung, but it wasn't until after a few seconds that she took note of the half emptied room.

"Aren't you coming," Ayumi asked walking past her desk. "School is over."

Ai pushed down from the chair, walking along side Ayumi as they made their way toward the door.

"See you girls tommarrow." Sumiko waved.

Ayumi waved back before the two turned the corner. They made their way past the front doors to see Genta and Mitsuhiko standing near the sidewalk in wait. Ayumi raced over with Ai strolling close behind.

"What took you so long?" Genta asked.

"I was waiting for Ai."

The three kept to where they stood as she approached.

"Where's Conan?" Ai asked.

"He took off right after class," Mitsuhiko informed. "He said something about meeting with someone."

"Did he say who it was?" Ayumi asked.

"Nope, but he sure was in a rush." Genta said.

She didn't need anything further, it was clear who he'd gone to see in her mind. They began chatting amongst themselves as they walked. Ai took to the back like she had several times before, gripping the straps to her bag in thought. Minutes passed as they continued to walk.

"Are you ok,"Mitsuhiko asked noticing her trailing behind. "You're a little quiet back there."

"I'm fine, just thinking."

They went their separate ways after walking a block up, waving to one another in the process. Her eyes lay fixated to the ground while arriving to her street. She looked to see the gate as well as the front door opened.

"Didn't know we were having company."

Ai walked in, closing the gate behind her. It became very apparent as she stepped to the door, the voices coming her way. But who had come to visit? Ai walked in cracking the door shut. She took a few steps in, peaking around the corner to see the three of them standing in conversation.

"What's he doing here?"

"So that's how the two of you met," Dr. Agasa said. "Now that's not something you hear to much."

"It was more embracing than anything," Tim stated. "I felt bad for walking in like that."

"So Conan, did you chase after him once he came out?"

"I had gotten a good look at him so that was enough, besides I was more worried about Ran," Conan replied. "But even if I had chased him down there wouldn't have been much I could have done, I'm not even half his size."

"Well I'm glad you decided to bring him over."

"And it's good to meet you as well Mr. Agasa," Tim commented. "Conan told me about your many experiments, that must keep you busy."

"Oh yes, it's almost a hobby of mine if you want to call it that."

"Keep it up, you might gain a big break some day."

"If he's lucky." Conan stated.

"Don't give him such a hard time Conan," Tim said. "Experimenting with genetics as well as mechanics can be a very difficult task."

"How would you know," Conan questioned. "You've never actually worked in that field of work."

"Add that as another thing you didn't know about me little detective."

"Anything else you want to lay out on the table?" Conan asked with the cross of his arms.

"Going to have to be a little specific," Tim said tapping his wrist. "I have many talents."

Hiroshi smiled, humored by the bickering between the two.

"Conan where's Ai," Hiroshi asked. "Didn't the two of you walk together?"

"Tim was already almost here when school was out," Conan informed. "Didn't want to keep him waiting."

"I'm sure she'll be here any minute now." Hiroshi said looking to his watch.

Tim took to the wall, a smirk forming to his lips.

"She's already here," Tim said looking to the wall. "Just in hiding."

Ai stepped from around the corner, Conan uncrossing his arms as she did.

"How long have you been standing there?" Conan asked.

"Not very long," Tim replied. "I'd say for just under a half minute."

"I'm sorry about that Tim," Hiroshi apologized. "She can be a little shy."

"I'm not shy." Ai said walking over and having a seat to the couch.

The room lay silent for seconds to come. Tim pushed from the wall, grabbing his bag from the ground.

"I better get going," Tim said strapping it into place. "I'll be sure to stop by again some time."

"I'd me more than delighted." Hiroshi said in response.

"I'll go with you," Conan said grabbing his bag as well. "There's something I need to talk to you about."

"Tell Ran I said hello."

"I'll be sure to do that," Conan said as they turned to walk. "See you tommarrow doc."

She watched as they headed out, the door closing behind them. Hiroshi walked over, standing directly behind her.

"What's wrong, do you have a dislike toward Mr. Wayne?" Agasa asked.

"It's not that," Ai replied. "I think there is something about him we don't know, something Shinichi hasn't told us."

"Something he hasn't told us," Hiroshi questioned. "What do you think he's hiding?"

"I don't know."

That was all she could say, the factor of the unknown still weighing high.

A warm wind blew along as they walked, turning up past the first block. A jet flew overhead catching their attention, even if it was only for a few moments.

"How'd I do back there?" Tim asked stashing his hands to his pocket.

"Stellar, I'd give you a nine."

"You think he likes me?"

"I'd say so," Conan replied with a smile. "Is it true what you said back there, about working with genetics and all?"

"That's right," Tim confirmed. "It's one great asset to have."

"Yea, I bet."

They took another turn, met by two trucks racing by.

"Besides meeting with Hiroshi, you said you wanted to talk to me about something."

"It's not really that important, I was just wondering," Conan said looking to him. "Are you going to be busy after school tommarrow."

"What's happening, something important come up?"

"Actually we're planning on going to a carnival," Conan replied. "I was hoping you would come along."

"You're the second person to invite me," Tim said. "Ran asked me at lunch."

"So are you coming?"

"Well since you both asked, I don't see why I can't make room for it." Tim answered.

"On another note, we need to be extremely careful on what we do," Conan stated. "Haibara has become increasingly suspicious of you."

"Yea I noticed," Tim said. "Is she going to the carnival to?"

Conan nodded.

"This might be an opportunity to throw her off."

"How do you plan on doing that?" Conan asked.

"I'm still working up to that," Tim said looking forward. "But you'll know just as soon as I do."

"Great," Conan said taking off. "I'll see you tommarrow then."

"I'll be looking forward to it."

Tim watched as he darted up the block, disappearing around the corner shortly there after. He then turned, heading in the opposite direction to his place. He returned to the apartment to the sound of a beep, alerting him the scan was complete.

"About time," Tim thought tossing the bag to the bed. "Now let's see what we have here."

He sat to the chair, his eyes widening at what the screen read.

"Unknown?"

It took a few seconds for it to sink in, knowing he had much to do ahead of him.

"Whatever was in that box is not registering to the system," Tim said bringing a hand to the mouse. "It must be two separate components mixed together to form something untraceable, the question is what?"

That was a question he wished to answer. The rest of that day up until the night was spent trying to identify the elements which had been stored to the box. He ran smaller tests to see if he could diagnose it as a whole, one piece at a time. The clock rolled past 2:00 A.M. finding himself asleep to the desk from exhaustion.

It rang loudly to his displeasure in the wake of dawn. He rolled to his side with a groan, reaching for his phone. Conan brought it to his eyes to see an incoming call from Mitsuhiko.

"I wonder what he could be calling about."

Conan then looked to the clock, tossing the covers to the side after realizing he had only two minutes until class was to begin. He darted out of bed, quickly dressing before storming out the room. He took to the kitchen, grabbing a snack while racing out the front door.

"So much on my mind last night, can't believe I forgot to set the alarm."

Conan arrived to the school, not surprised to find the halls empty as he rushed through. He came to a stop once reaching the door, taking a deep breath before pushing it open. Sumiko immediately looked to him with her hands falling to her waist.

"It's unusual for you to be late," Sumiko said. "Did you remember to get a late slip?"

"Oops, that kinda slipped my mind." Conan replied with a laugh.

"Never mind that, you have some important notes to take," Sumiko informed. "You can go down later, but right now I want you to go to your seat."

Conan did as instructed. She then took to the board to begin the class lesson. Conan reached for pencil, only to realize he didn't have one. He then felt a tap from behind, Ayumi leaning forward in her seat.

"Conan where's your backpack?" Ayumi whispered.

He rolled his eyes, knowing this just wasn't his day.

"I must have forgot it on my rush here." Conan replied.

Ayumi sat back, digging into the depths of her bag.

"Here," Ayumi offered. "You can use one of my pencils for the day."

"Thank you."

She also gave him two sheets of paper, class finally getting underway.

The day continued to progress at a normal rate, everything crammed from all sides. First period had already ended. He found himself sorting the contents to his locker, setting everything aside, ready to take to gym class. He closed the locker with a click, spinning to the side to lock eyes with Ran.

"Hey Tim, how's your day coming along?" Ran greeted.

"Ok I guess, just taking it one step at a time."

"So," Ran began with her best smile. "Are you coming to the carnival?"

"Yea, I'll be there." Tim replied.

"Great, I knew you'd say yes," Ran happily said heading to her next class. "I'll see you after school."

"I guess you will."

This was to be their final stop before heading to their final destination. What was only supposed to be a minute of waiting turned into five. Conan looked to his watch, becoming slightly impatient.

"What do you think's taking him so long," Ayumi asked. "I thought he said he was just going to change his shirt."

"He probably went to go eat something." Mitsuhiko said.

"But there will be plenty to eat at the carnival." Ayumi stated.

The front door flew open the next second with Genta heading out with a new shirt on, just as he had said.

"Took you long enough," Conan said with relief. "Let's hurry back to my place, Haibara is going to meet us there."

"Sorry about that," Genta apologized as they began to walk. "A few books in my room fell over, had to pile them back to the desk."

They kept casual conversation as they made their way, arriving to the Mouri residents in a timely fashion. Ai stood next to Ran whom both waited to the side of the roadway.

"So are we about ready to go?" Mitsuhiko asked.

"Not much longer, Sonoko will be here shortly," Ran informed. "She went home to go change, we'll leave as soon as she arrives."

"What about Tim," Conan asked. "He told me you invited him."

"He's going to meet us up there, I just got off the phone with him," Ran replied. "So don't you worry."

"Awesome," Mitsuhiko said. "Maybe he'll buy us some more ice cream."

They waited for another minute or so, watching as a cab headed their way. It came to a stop once reaching them, the window sliding down to reveal Sonoko in the passenger seat.

"Surprise," Sonoko said. "You should all be able to squeeze to the back."

"Great timing." Ran commented.

"Couldn't agree more." Mitsuhiko said in agreement.

Ran stepped in first with everyone climbing in behind her. They found themselves situated rather quickly, driving off as soon as they did. Conan sat with his head to the seat, looking out the window as they drove. The others kept light conversation the whole way there. It didn't take long for everything to come into view, dancing, the parade, the activities.

"This will be far enough." Sonoko said looking to the driver.

He turned the wheel, edging close to the sidewalk with a stop. They all stepped out, relieved to be from the narrow space from the back of the taxi.

"There's so much going on." Mitsuhiko said looking in all directions.

"Question is, where to start." Genta said with excitement building.

"I want to watch the parade." Ayumi stated.

"You can always catch that on TV later." Genta said.

"Watching something live is a whole nother experience." Ai said adding in her input.

"I think I'll stay out of this one." Conan thought to himself.

Sonoko came to the side of Ran with a slight nudge.

"This whole thing was your idea," Sonoko pointed out. "So what do you think we should do first?"

"I don't know," Ran said giving it some thought. "Maybe we could find something to eat, then decide on what to do afterward."

"That's a great idea!" Genta yelled in full support.

"I guess that's not a bad way to start things off," Sonoko said. "So where to?"

"Anywhere's fine, as long as it's not a long wait." Ran replied.

"I think I know just the place," Sonoko said. "It's only about a block away from here."

She lead them up the street, turning to the left once reaching the end of the block. They soon arrived to a small pizza joint, waiting in a relatively small line.

"It's been a few months since I've had any pizza." Ran said.

"Me to," Conan said. "It's long overdue."

"What kind are you going to get?" Ayumi asked looking to Ai.

"I'm not hungry," Ai replied. "But I could use a little something to drink."

Their turn to order had arrived. Ran looked back to the detective boys, making sure she gathered what they would like to have which took all but a few seconds.

"Ran are you going to get something as well?" Sonoko asked.

"Of course," Ran answered. "I haven't eaten since breakfast."

"Are you ladies ready to order?" The clerk asked.

"Oh yes, we're ready," Sonoko replied. "Had to make sure we had everything lined up."

"It happens all the time, so no worries." He said not bothered at all.

From there they ordered, checking with the others to make sure they ordered the right stuff. She reached down to open her purse, fiddling toward her bills. As she gathered the money someone stepped to the side of her, placing the amount due to the counter.

"No need to lift a finger I'll cover all payments for everyone today."

"Hi Tim." Ayumi spoke more than glad to see him.

"How did you find us?" Conan asked.

"I saw the seven of you walking this way from across the roadway." Tim replied.

"That's so sweet and thoughtful of you," Ran said. "But are you sure about paying for everything?"

"It's a special day, so I'd like to treat you all to a free one."

Sonoko stepped up to him with a huff, crossing her arms in the process.

"You're a little late," Sonoko explained. "I'm already paying for everything."

"I was referring to you as well."

"I don't need your money." Sonoko proudly stated with the shift of her head.

"Is this about yesterday," Tim asked. "Look...I said I was sorry, I even agreed to help you amp up your chemistry grade."

"This has nothing to do with that," Sonoko lied while looking back to him. "All I'm saying is I don't need your money."

"Fine," Tim said finally giving in. "How about we do it this way, I'll pay for all the guys and you do the same for the girls."

"Fine." Sonoko remarked agreeing to terms.

"Does this mean we also get to split into groups?" Conan asked with a smile.

"Most certainly not," Ran answered. "We're staying together, and that's that."

"It was worth a shot," Conan thought. "What we say and do from here is important, don't want to further Haibara's suspicions."

"Here you are," The clerk spoke from behind. "Everything's all a go."

"But I didn't even pay yet." Sonoko said spinning around.

"Sorry, but I already beat you to that." Tim said with a grin.

"And here we go again."

They sat to a table close to the door, taking their time to eat. Ai was the first to finish, being the fact all she had only ordered a drink. She slipped down from the chair, joining Tim who stood right outside the front entrance. He glimpsed back to see Ai take a seat to the bench right behind. She rested her chin to her palm, taking a breath in of the city air. He wanted to say something, but what could he? It was almost like playing a game of chess when it came to her, every move just as important as the last. The parade continued to ravage on, the others coming from the doors a short period later.

"How come you didn't eat anything," Ran asked. "Aren't you hungry?"

"I'll have a little something later," Tim replied. "Let's just try and have a good time."

"Tim seems to be acting a little different," Conan thought to himself. "Maybe this is part of his so called plan."

"So what are we going to do first?" Ayumi asked.

"Maybe we could join in on one of the many activities." Ran suggested.

"I like that idea." Mitsuhiko said.

Through all the drums, violins, and hornets, it managed to strike loud and clear. They all turned, the sound of a terrifying scream coming from just around the corner.

"And here I was hoping for a promising day without any drama," Conan thought. "Guess that was wishful thinking."

To Be Continued