Disclaimer: I do not own 'Kaitou Tantei Yamaneko' or 'Aibou'
. . .
Kai stared at the pile of newspaper articles on the table with a raised eyebrow.
'Mysterious Thief Wildcat Strikes Again!
Political Organization 'Shining Peace' stole 50,000,000 Yen…'
"Ano, Sugishita-san, what's this?" He asked, pointing at the pile and keeping his posture calm despite his internal alarm. Sugishita who was pouring his tea with the usual flare of bravado spared Kai and the table a glance.
"I believe that is a pile of newspapers, Kaito-kun."
Kai could feel a habitual headache begin to surface at the back of his head, courtesy of the man opposite him. He smiled smoothly. "I can see that, Sugishita-san. But what are they doing here?" Gesturing to the The Special Mission Unit with a wave of an arm. Sugishita had been standing near the coffee machine, but now sat at his desk, cupping his tea mug with a gentle smile.
"Call it natural curiosity. This Phantom Thief is a very interesting fellow. Robbing from the corrupt. His escapades remind me of the old English tale, Robin Hood..."
"Oh?" Said Kai, flipping through the top newspaper article about whether the intentions of the thief 'Wilcat' was good or evil. It sent a wave of nostalgia at him like a bag of ice.
"Yes." Sugishita nodded, pausing to take a sip. "Kaito-kun, did you know Robin Hood is based on a true story?"
"I did not."
Sugishita opened his mouth to delve into England's intereting history when Kakuta knocked at the door, panda mug in hand. After the three of them offered pleasantries Kakuta interested Sugishita about a new case he heard about (most likely from gossip), Kai turned back to the newspapers. He felt an odd sense of hollowness in his chest, mingled with fear and exhilaration.
Are you him?
Kai wondered as his finger traced the printout drawing given from a witness. The cat mask was unmistakable.
If you are, will you find me?
His heart pounded at the thought.
Or will I find you?