A/N: Our school library is going to be closed for almost a month at then end of March. It sucks because that library is like my home away from home there. D: I'm going to miss it…even though for one week when it's closed we have holidays. XD''

*cough* Anyway, I thought I'd just mention this here since it's not too long before it comes up (Wow, wow! Its so close!) The last two chapters (or rather the last and the epilogue) I plan to post on the same day. So when the time comes around for the 44th chapter to be posted, expect a bit of a longer delay since I'll be typing out the epilogue as well.

Oh right, just something about this chapter: there's going to be more switches in point of view. Since there are a lot of things happening and I have a certain way I want things to roll out, different views sporadically showing up is going to be necessary. Sorry if this'll seem a bit weird, but that's the way it's gonna be. ;D

Rit-Rit - I love you! You were the one that gave birth to all those whacky ideas. XD Even if you just wanted to shush them, it sprouted into something awesome.

Nequam-tenshi - The flowers I came up with just before chapter 35. I wanted Conan to be able to weed out Houseki and, sure, his detective skills could've probably done that, but I wanted him to be completely sure which is why I brought the flowers in. If I recall right, he said something about the brochure. Here's the quote: "Rare flowers bloom at their surface, so the staff here don't want tourists to disturb the plant life inside of the water."

PlayingthePiano - Darn. XD I should've had Hakuba or Kaito mention some random coconut. They could've with what happened to them. :D

Teh Evil Anime Neko - Ah…my friend didn't dream about Heiji being a stick figure. …that was the result of us asking what she thought he looked like (she'd actually seen him, but she denies he looks the way he does for some reason xD). She got a piece of paper and drew a stick person and labelled it 'Heiji'. Yeah xD

Pandakitty - It's not like the Kokoro thing is your fault. XD I was the one who named him. :3 No, the path thing only worked since it was a rebound of the spell that made him Shin-chan again. :P BUN *as in a sound effect, not like the bread* O: Speaking of Edgey suddenly, you wouldn't have happened to have bought the AAI when you were having dinner on Friday, would you? AGH, small errors always get me! Lol, when Hari read the part where she came in, she was twitching 'cause Kaito tore the page out of that book. XD MY VODOO IS AMAZING. I think that Halloween was the beginning of my ability to bring forth the weird in the weather. …or y'know, global warming. X3

Marie Ravenclaw - Ah, losing your internet. :C How sucky that always turns out to be.

AmaryMei - Ah…the archives. Well, there may be more on that later. As for Kiro…I'll just say this: you know her more than you know. XD If I could make it snow in the Philippines, the coincidences would go from weird to just plain crazy.

Miyanoai - Irony: something I tend to accidentally come across. XD' Don't worry, I know how you feel about the heists. XD I really enjoy them too, especially when I consider what would happen if one of them were to mess up. Not sure when, but the snow thing will be revealed soon enough. Houseki's whereabouts will be touched on…right about now. (as in this chapter) Kokoro was supposed to be annoying, but yeah, he's having his chance to reconcile. Conan's 007ness really shows in movie 9 with the ship. He even has the suit to go with it! Yes, crack is inevitable in all stories. XD There at least has to be a little bit, and here I found it in my friend's mind. That's two that want to know what happened in the mind. XD I couldn't resist the suicide line. I mean…really. XD I also can't let any chance for 'aww' moments to pass by, either. Speaking of which, Toichi hasn't shown up in a while.

Exposition

"Are you sure your cold isn't coming back?" asking once more as she was cleaning off her father's desk of all the cans and cigarettes, Ran rose her eyebrow in Conan's direction, "You've been sneezing a lot lately."

"Th-Thanks Ran-neechan, but really I'm fine." Not quite helping his argument, he sneezed once more. Shaking his head to get rid of the feeling that accompanied the sneeze, he stated, "Somebody's probably just thinking about me." '…believe me, Ran, there are plenty of candidates for that excuse…and you're one of them.'

In actuality, his 'cold' was the panned out result of utilising that flower. The enhanced sight had long since worn off, but as Kokoro had mentioned, Conan was still sneezing a lot. It had been at least two full days since he'd started 'achooing' and he felt it might be a while before he stopped. However, as annoying as it was, he couldn't focus on that.

Saturday: the last day before things would - supposedly - go bad.

Wary of pretty much every detail of his surroundings, Conan felt ready for anything. It was still early in the day, which meant there was plenty of time for something to occur. Whether it was a partial sight or just intuition, Conan could feel there was a lot set out for that day. Unfortunately, nothing had happened yet, which meant it was all going to come. Trying to reassure himself a bit, he chided, 'Come on…how much could happen in one day?'

As if on cue, there was a knock at the door.

Kogoro was out on a case that had dragged over from the day before. Doing as she was told, Ran headed for the door, ready to decline the one standing there of any service. However, just as she began to say, "I'm sorry" her words fell short. Instead of 'sorry', she blurted out, "Shinichi!?"

Losing focus on anything around him, Conan quickly swerved toward the door. Rather than being shocked, he smiled. Leaving Akako's on Wednesday, Kuroba had mentioned a 'surprise'. Though, as persuasive as the disguise was, after a moment Ran didn't appear too convinced.

Pausing, she let out a question which made Conan twitch, "…hey, Shinichi, do remember that one time when we were kids and that strange man gave sent us out on that treasure hunt?"

'Oh no.' About to send out the answer via telepathy, Conan was halted as Kuroba replied without hesitation.

"Yeah. We went around searching for items that were red to get the hints that led us to the top of the post office where…" he actually blushed a bit, "…well, where we saw that amazing sunset." Placing his finger on his chin, he glanced upward, "If I recall…that last hint was an S and W with an arrow in between them, right?"

"…uh, yeah. That was it." A bit derailed by the immediate answer, Ran's suspicion dropped dramatically. It was still there, but something about the way he'd answered seem to convince her he wasn't Kuroba.

Conan knew he sure as hell wasn't Kuroba. Not once had he told the magician about that. …He hadn't even told his parents about that. The Detective Boys knew but…Kuroba wouldn't ask them for that. Suddenly much more alarmed, Conan stared at the stranger with wide eyes. '…the only possible person who could know that…and appear to be me-'

'Hold up a minute.' At a strategically timed pause, the one at the door sent out a telepathic reassurance as Ran went on talking. 'I'm not sure how you keep forgetting, but as long as you think of the answers, I'll be able to hear them and breeze through Ran's questions.'

'…Oh…it's just you, dad.' Taking a deep sigh of relief, Conan went back to finishing the page of the comic he was reading. Blinking partway through the page, a question came to mind, 'Wait, if dad's the one who's disguised as me right now…why was Kuroba the one to-?'

Looking up as another knock sounded at the door, he flinched. 'This is bad. …"Conan" being in the same room as "Shinichi" would help to lower Ran's suspicions - it did lower her suspicions - but she'll definitely find something weird if there's two Shinichis running about.' Having no excuse to stop her, Conan could only cover his eyes with his hands. 'It's over.'

"Oh, hello…Kuroba-kun."

In a slight confusion, Conan let his hands abandon his eyes so he could take in the details of the newcomer. Sure enough, the only definable difference between he and Kuroba - their hair - was messy and tangled, Kuroba's signature style. Wearing a navy blue jacket with a white stripe crossing the front and the ends of the sleeves, he hit some snow off his boots. First smiling at Ran, his face grew baffled as he noticed Yuusaku. Glancing from his father to him, Conan had to wonder what Kuroba's mentioned surprise was. It certainly - and luckily - wasn't to dress up as Kudo Shinichi judging by his reaction.

Obviously noticing Kuroba's reaction, Yuusaku made the first move after being 'puzzled' himself. "Um…hello. Ran, who is this?"

Glancing between the two, it took a second before Ran responded. As she did, Conan guessed his father was filling Kuroba in via telepathy seeing as his confusion washed away, and he stated as Ran finished, "Nice to meet you."

Nodding as if he were taking in the information for the first time, Yuusaku then indicated himself. "My name is Kudo Shinichi - you may have heard of me. Whether it was from television or someone in person I wouldn't be able to guess."

"I have heard of you, and evidently it was from Ran-chan here. You're the famous high school detective from the East." Gathering his own pride, Kuroba pointed to himself. "I don't actually do it as a job, but I'm a pretty good magician."

Sure to play his part, Yuusaku seemed less than amused - almost bored. "…a magician? Not to be a stick in the mud or anything, but I'm not really a magic person."

Seeing his chance to finally be the one to pry for the truth rather than be the target, Conan piped up, "Oh? But Ran-neechan, I thought you said Shinichi-niichan told you he didn't mind magic tricks when you talked to him on the phone last."

Catching onto the small turn of events, Yuusaku then looked suspiciously at Ran's flustered face. "…I don't remember ever talking about magic on the phone with you. …besides, the last time I phoned you was…after that happened." As the words left his mouth, he looked away. Although Ran seemed to notice Kuroba's similar gesture, she failed to see Conan's own expression of grief.

Anxious to get off that certain topic, Conan kept the conversation of Ran's deceit up. Frowning, he asked with a hint of betrayal in his voice, "…Why would you lie about that, Ran-neechan?"

With all eyes on her after the question, she flailed about for a few moments before finally fixating on the floor. After a few seconds, she stared at Conan, her eyes apologetic. "Well…I suppose because I was confused. I-I'm sorry, Conan-kun."

Oblivious since her back was turned to them, Ran didn't see Yuusaku and Kuroba's small thumbs-up at their success. Ran's suspicion wouldn't be a problem for awhile.

However, she then brought up a different dilemma. "I…I may have lied, Conan-kun, but surely you didn't."

Blinking, he attempted to try and pinpoint just what she was referring to. He couldn't, however, so he ended up questioning, "What exactly could I have lied about, Ran-neechan?"

"You forgot?" Swirling around, she was then directing her attention at Kuroba. "Kuroba-kun, you were there, remember? …when he made his promise?"

'Promise…?' Simultaneously, each of the males rewound their memories. Somehow, possibly because two with the ear for thought were in such close proximity, they all seemed to recall at the exact same moment. A small conversation ran through each of their minds.

…if Shinichi ever gets back, you've got to promise you'll show me and him a magic trick. Ran's voice echoed.

After stuttering while nearly giving away the secret, Conan's response soon chimed in. Y-You've never seen me do a magic trick before! I'll…I'll blow your guys' socks off! …he didn't technically say 'yes', but it was implied.

Concluding that hiding that promise would just seem suspicious, Kuroba admitted, "O-Oh yeah. …the little tyke did mention something about showing you a trick, didn't he?" Wording it as normally as he could, Kuroba attempted to get Conan out of the awkward situation. "…he may be a pretty good learner, but if it's magic you wanna see, I'm your man."

Downing all of their hopes with the shake of her head, Ran replied, "Thank you, Kuroba-kun, but maybe some other time. I'd like to see what Conan-kun's been learning for the past few months." Smiling to her side, she joked, "…and I'm sure it would do Shinichi some good to open his mind to some new things."

From the couch, Conan almost had the urge to reply to her last statement, but he decided against it. Instead he merely thought, '…you…have NO…idea.'

Looking at Conan 'sceptically', Yuusaku queried, "…So since when has Conan-kun here been into magic? …he always seemed to be the logical type to me."

Taking some time to explain the events of the months prior, Ran gave Conan the ample opportunity to ask about Kuroba's intentions. Focusing on the magician, he got to the point, 'Kuroba, why are you here? What was that "surprise" you mentioned a few days ago at Akako-chan's house?'

Distracted by the conversation between Ran and Yuusaku, Kuroba took a second to respond. '…What do you mean? This is the surprise.' Indicating Yuusaku who must've used the same spell Conan had that transformed him into Irene, Kuroba added on, 'Why else would I have come here? …With your dad posed as you, I could arrive and convince Ran the "Kudo Shinichi" at her door wasn't the look-alike Kuroba Kaito, but in fact the real thing…well, at least she thinks that. But I've gotta say…your dad's acting must be on par with mine. Not only was Ran deceived, apparently you were too.' Gaining a somewhat concerned expression, he finished, 'Usually you would've seen right through that…is something up?'

'The last week of all human existence - for all we know - may start tomorrow and you actually just asked that?' With a sarcastic tone lining his thoughts, Conan went on, '…Of course something's up…everything's up. Houseki could come for me at anytime. That could mean anyone could be in danger and I can't bring myself to think of the consequences if that happened.' Staring at Ran who had puffed her cheeks at one of Yuusaku's remarks, Conan's eyes narrowed in apprehension.

'…that's also why I decided this surprise should occur today.' Turning to look at Kuroba when he replied, Conan noticed he was smiling. 'You should know better than anyone that anything could happen in the next seven days…that's why you shouldn't have any unnecessary worries on your mind. Besides…if we act as if we're defenceless, it'll prompt Houseki to attack quicker…and maybe this'll be over faster.'

Positive that he didn't send the thought to Kuroba or that his father wasn't listening in, Conan reminded himself, '…She knows our moves better than you'd expect, Kuroba.' Before he could send an actual response, Ran became interested in the same thing Conan had just asked minutes before.

"Oh, by the way, Kuroba-kun, why are you here anyway?"

Flinching, Kuroba hesitated before stammering, "I-I'm here to tell Conan-kun that Koizumi-chan says the lesson is going to be cancelled today."

Out of pure instinct, Yuusaku asked, "Why doesn't she just phone here?" Realizing what he'd just pointed out, he was quick to shut up but it was too late.

Faltering since he apparently didn't have an answer, Kuroba just stood there with a blank face. Stalling as he stumbled over the words, he finally managed, "S-She doesn't have a phone book and I think she still hasn't asked Conan-kun for his number yet."

Aiding in the ploy, Conan added, "Y-Yeah. …I've been meaning to give it to her, but with everything the way it's been…"

Her own detective skills sparked, Ran asked, "If that's the case, Kuroba-kun, why wouldn't you just phone here? …I'm pretty sure I've heard Conan-kun talking to you on the phone from time to time."

Put on spot by yet another incriminating question, Kuroba was quicker on the draw this time. "I happened to be in the area when she called my cell so I thought, why not drop in?"

"Oh, I see. But…" checking the clock which read 10am, Ran commented, "It's kind of early to be out around here. Do you live close?"

"N-Not really." Scratching his head, Kuroba came up with yet another excuse. "My mom actually sent me out to get some groceries…but I kind of lost the list. I was heading back when Koizumi-chan phoned."

"…so you were just going to go back empty-handed?" Frowning as Kuroba nodded, Ran went into thought. After a few seconds, she suggested, "How about after Conan-kun's magic trick all of us help you buy those groceries? …It's really okay Kuroba-kun, I know Conan-kun and I aren't doing much and I'm sure Shinichi would help too, right?" Not in a spot to decline, both of the Kudos agreed.

Watching as the much taller people in the room came toward the couch, Conan pretended he needed to get something before he started. Running off into a nearby room, memories of the day the Detective Boys had been on his tail all came back. Desperately thinking of something easy he could do that would be possible with simple 'logical' magic he scanned the room for anything he could use. Eventually deciding, he grabbed a few miscellaneous items before running back out.

Explaining clearly to Ran that he would only do the easier tricks he was certain he'd be able to pull off, he reluctantly began.

Placing a short pencil on the table, he went about a small speech, "Now you'll have to watch closely. Notice that there isn't anything out of the ordinary with this pencil. It's just a regular pencil." Making it up as he was going, he revealed his palms to his small audience. "As you can see, there's nothing wrong with my hands either. No string, no wire. Now pay attention," Keeping his right hand open, he gradually led his left hand to cover the pencil. "my left hand is now overtop the pencil, but my right is still nowhere near it. However, that'll change." Closing his right hand so they could see he had nothing within it, he then lifted his left hand to expose the empty area under it. When the eyes watching saw this, they immediately set their sights on his right hand. Closed still, he faced his palm up and uncurled his fingers, slowly revealing the same pencil concealed there.

Gasping in delight, Ran cheered, "Wow! How'd you make it do that, Conan-kun?"

Although the answer was simple - teleportation magic - Conan placed his finger over his mouth. "Sorry, Ran-neechan, that's a magician's secret."

Rolling his eyes, Kuroba had his arms crossed. However 'amused' he was by the comment, a smile formed his mouth and he was leaning forward. It seemed he, as well as Ran, wanted to see more.

Still in the act, Yuusaku was slouched back in his seat appearing slightly bored. Though his body language suggested he wasn't entertained, a small glimmer in his eye told Conan he was curious as well. They all wanted to see what he'd do next.

'…Lucky me.' Conan mentally scowled.

Reaching for some cards he'd set off to the side, he shuffled them before placing them down. Asking that each in the circle shuffle them, once they were finished he looked toward Ran, "If you're all done with that… Ran-neechan, would you pick a card?"

Blinking, she glanced down at the deck laying in Yuusaku's hands. "Any card? …from the entire deck?" When he nodded, she picked one near the top. Careful to make sure Conan didn't see it, she took a look at the card.

The instant she did, Conan stated, "It's the six of spades, isn't it?"

Ran's gasp was expected, but Yuusaku's wasn't. Though Ran just assumed he was surprised by the correct guess as well, Conan as well as Kuroba knew that wouldn't be the case. Considering the method he'd used - the ear for thought - originated from Yuusaku, he of all people would've known what had happened. There was something else about the card that got to him. Quickly using his inherited ability once more, Conan ventured through his father's mind to see what was wrong.

He heard his mother's voice. …sight isn't only limited to the mind, sometimes items can reveal the future - albeit in their own ways. …like a simple piece of paper. It may not be as direct, but the meaning is implied: that's what Shin-chan said during my vision.

Repeating the words in his mind, his own eyes widened. A simple piece of paper - the card - would reveal the future, albeit not directly…but the meaning would be implied.

The six of spades: six could mean a variety of things, but with the spades being its accompanying symbol, it was more than likely six meant just that - six. Six spades: six deaths.

It was unnerving, but if all of humanity could possibly be wiped out, why was the number six? Coming to a conclusion, he felt his eyes sting as his pupils shrunk and sweat ran down his cheek. 'Unless…six represents the day.'

"…Conan-kun?" Broken from his daze by Ran's voice, he came back to earth to be welcomed by three worried faces. Leaning in close, Ran placed her hand on his forehead, "Well…you don't feel too warm, but your sweat is cold. …and you've turned quite pale. Are you positive you don't have a cold?"

Going over his options, he paused. Making his decision final, while he avoided eye contact he muttered, "…Well…"

Probably frowning, Ran sighed, "I thought so. Listen, Conan-kun: while we go to the store you should go straight to your bed and rest. …We don't want you away from school for another week."

Making certain he put up the full act, he asked the usual questions, "What if somebody phones or comes to the door?"

Getting her jacket on at the same time as Yuusaku (Kuroba hadn't taken his off), Ran replied, "If they phone just tell them no one's in, and if they come to the door just ignore it. …You can put up a sign on the doorknob that says dad isn't here or something." Heading out first, she smiled back. "Make sure you get your rest, Conan-kun."

As she headed out, Yuusaku and Kuroba glanced back apprehensively. '…I'll be fine. If you're both so worried, finish that "grocery shopping" as soon as you can.' Watching as his father took the advice, Conan recalled something and told Kuroba, 'My dad doesn't have his glasses, so you may have to help him…stay on balance.'

Perfectly timed came a stumble from the hallway. Sounding startled, Ran's voice blurted, "W-Whoa, Shinichi! You nearly fell over on me!" Followed by a quick apology, Kuroba then chuckled. 'I'll see what I can do.' With that, he closed the door, leaving Conan alone.

Staring out the window at the three retreating backs, Conan waited until they were out of sight before he locked the door. Seated in Kogoro's chair situated by the desk, he went into thought. He knew where Houseki was: he could do something, but he wasn't sure what. For one thing, it troubled him that she was so close. Aside from the obvious anxiety that arose from her initial position, there was also the fact that it was her spirit form: the same one that had been within him, he could feel it. His main questions were 'Where's her other half?' and 'What's she planning?' There was a vague answer in his mind for the second question, but the first could've been anyone's guess.

Unable to think, he decided to take Ran's advice and make a sign for the front door so as not to be distracted by any unwanted guests. Hoping to come up with something, he actually scouted out the drawers and tables for paper and a pen rather than conjuring them up. Mind still blank as he returned to the desk with the supplies, he went about writing 'We are out right now' on the yellowing paper. Feeling that there was a slight lie behind the message, he finally made his decision. "…why can't this sign be true?"

He knew where she was; if he acted quick enough, he could gather everyone and they could finally get it over with. She'd have to be off guard; he could lure her to 'one final meeting before the comet comes'…although they'd already done that on Wednesday.

Setting his sign down, he went to get his jacket. Slipping it on, he considered phoning Kuroba but decided against it. There'd be a chance Ran would overhear, and according to her, he should stay put - not go scheming ways to off a witch trying to take his life. Concluding that leaving a note would be the best option, he grabbed another piece of paper and scribbled a small message complete with an apology on it. Leaving that on the desk, he picked up the initial sign and some tape. The tape he could just throw back in the room: he didn't need to waste anymore time.

Reading over his sign one last time as he unlocked the door, he gradually pulled it open. Tape held in his mouth, it nearly dropped as he peered out the door at two legs covered by black pants. Thin, they complimented the woman's slender shape, their color matching her long hair. Smiling as the tape fell to the floor, she innocently mumbled, "…Hello there, little Hoshi."

…apparently Houseki's other half just so happened to have business at the detective agency that day, and that business was horrified at the sight of her grinning face.

"…and just where exactly are you going?"

'Busted.' Heiji thought just as he was opening the door. 'So much for leavin' without anyone noticin'…' Putting his hands up in defeat as he turned, he blinked in surprise as the one he thought to be standing there (Kazuha, obviously) was instead Haibara.

Arms crossed, she glared at him. "…I knew you could raise your abilities by taking power from your other senses, but I wasn't aware you could take them away completely." In response to Heiji's reaction, she groaned and placed her hand on her forehead, "Fine, I'll rephrase it: you're deaf. …I asked you a question."

"Fine, fine…I was headed over t' the detective agency. I was thinkin' we might as well get some last thoughts in before our last normal day ends." Whispering the entire time, he sent out a small plea. "I don't want Kazuha t' be knowin' about my whereabouts, so if she asks-"

"She's not here." Scratching her head, Haibara sighed in exasperation. "You must be blind as well as deaf. Didn't you notice her leave this morning?"

Frowning, Heiji's shoulders arched in annoyance under his green coat, "…Obviously not. …Do ya know where she was goin'?"

"Same place as you. …Apparently she was going to meet with Ran-chan today." Glancing off to the side, Haibara's eyes narrowed. "…it wasn't too long ago that she left, but it's still quite early. …I wonder what they're doing…"

"…Probably just some shoppin'." Heiji attempted to sound reassuring, but he knew that wasn't the case. Ran had been suspicious for a while. She probably was planning to get Kazuha to help her squeeze the truth out of Kudo. '…reason B why I need t' get over there…'

Although not planning on it originally, Heiji couldn't help but wonder as he started to leave, "…aren't ya comin', Ai-chan?"

"…No, she's not." Appearing from around the corner came the harpy boy. Heiji still hadn't bothered to remember his name yet. Pouting a bit, he explained, "Her and I are going to be in charge of keeping the kids out of the way…at least for awhile." Finished with his frown, he brightened, "It may not be the most action-filled job, but at least I'm able to help in some way. …and I get to try out something called a 'video game'!"

Noticing that he was partially proud about the last statement, Heiji humoured him, "Heh, I wish I could do that instead." Originally intended as a small lie, it turned out to much more honest than Heiji had anticipated. It would've definitely been an upgrade to be going through the events on a TV or in a book instead of living through it.

Checking his watch as he ran down the path, he began an estimate on how long it'd take for him to make it to the agency. However, even though he'd been going through any possible situations that could speed up or slow down his process, the one thing he didn't expect sped up his pace to the maximum.

…after all, things had to be timed perfectly, there wasn't any time to waste.

"…I have to wonder why Kuroba-kun ran off so suddenly. I know he said we didn't need to buy the groceries anymore, but I find it odd that he ditched us just as we arrived at the store." Frowning, Ran looked to her side, "He could've at least made up his mind a little earlier, eh Shinichi?"

"Oh, uh, yeah." Wobbling about since he'd lost his telepathic eyes, Yuusaku had to get by using Ran's thoughts about what lie ahead. That turned out to be quite difficult when she decided to face him instead of forward. Leaning against a wall, he implied she should stop as well. Not exactly wanting to get in the way of Kaito's plans, Yuusaku was reluctant to mutter, "You're not the only one curious about his motives, though. I'm not really familiar with the guy, so you'd have a better clue as to what he's doing."

Evidently, that was a lie: Yuusaku knew why Kaito had run off…or at least, what had caused him to.

Telepathically conversing as they usually did, Kaito had brought up a certain topic after nearly falling face first when his feet slipped on some ice numerous times. 'Can't you use some magic or something to melt the ice? This is starting to get-' another stumble '-ridiculous.'

Shaking his head discreetly, Yuusaku replied, 'I can't: right now for more than one reason. As a reassurance measure, I used a higher level deception spell than usual that - while in use - disables the ability to use any other spells. Other than that…ice is a form of water and water is a non-conductor to magic. Even if I were to do something about it, the ice would most likely only melt halfway, becoming even more slippery.'

'A non-conductor of magic, huh?' Feeling that he'd gotten the hint, Yuusaku focused away from his thoughts. That had been just across the street from the market. In retrospect, he should've kept tabs on what the boy was thinking, since in a flash he ran the way they came, shouting back, "Sorry! I don't really need the groceries; my mom'll understand! I have something else I need to do!" Leaving even Yuusaku in wonder, Kaito left without any other explanation.

Unable to convince her otherwise, Ran had insisted they go back to the agency since there was no other reason to be out at that point. Stating that she wanted to check on 'Conan' before they did anything else, Yuusaku had desperately searched for some excuse but came up empty. Not only did going back mean anything Shinichi might've been planning could be ruined, once they were finished business there, Ran would probably make some plans to…as the younger generation called it, 'hang out'. Aside from the fact that he wasn't the best when it came to acting as Shinichi, he knew Yukiko would never let him live it down if he went on a 'date' with Ran.

Knowing that he was on his own, Yuusaku did the best he could to stall the trip back since there was no reason not to return. He'd stop while using the excuse he'd made for his stumbled pace (he'd been sick the week before) and he'd often point out interesting objects (or what Shinichi would've found interesting) in store windows. It wasn't easy to keep up the ruse, but overall he was lucky. The store they'd headed to was a bit of a ways away from the agency.

Closing in on the location every minute, Yuusaku hoped whatever Shinichi was up to could risk being interrupted. Unless some miracle were to occur, he wouldn't be able to stall Ran any longer without it seeming suspicious.

Almost like a prayer answered by god, a voice boomed down the sidewalk, "K-Kudo! W-What are you doin' back here!?"

Swerving with Ran, Yuusaku noticed the newcomer to be an Osakan - a familiar one at that.

Magic certainly was an amazing thing - never before would Conan have been able to run so rapidly or for such a long period of time. Fatigue seemed to be a thing of the past; whether this was because of his power or his overwhelming fear, he couldn't be sure.

He'd been a fool: somehow he'd convinced himself she'd be coming for him during the Volley Comet's passing week. Never had he considered her arriving early.

'Stupid, stupid, STUPID.' That word seemed to fuel each of his steps.

Back at the agency, he'd been lucky. Slamming the door, he floated into the air. Smashing the window with a magic blow, he flew through it. As he levitated to lessen the toll of the fall, he began sprinting as soon as his feet touched the pavement. He didn't care what anyone had seen: he needed to get out of there.

Running in the direction his father and Kuroba had headed, he constantly checked behind his shoulder. Every once in a while he swore he saw the familiar black hair - even her smirking face once - but a majority of the time there were only confused innocents who were wondering how a boy could possibly run so fast. Praying that he wouldn't have to worry about any cars, he was looking back when he ran straight into someone.

Falling, he closed his eyes. Hoping it was anyone but her, he gradually began to open them. That process was sped up, however, as the figure said his name, "…Kudo?"

"…Kuroba?" Taking the hand the magician offered, Conan quickly stood.

"What are you doing out of the-"

"There's no time for questions!" Still holding onto his hand, Conan ran once more, Kuroba trailing behind him. Rather than waste his breath on words, he told Kuroba of the situation via telepathy, 'She's made her move. We've gotta get out of here!'

'She? As in…Houseki!?' With the control switching to Kuroba, it was then Conan who followed as he ducked into a nearby alley. Going down a ways, he finally stopped behind a garbage can. Not wanting to gain any attention whatsoever, he continued to communicate with his mind, '…when did she come? Don't tell me…she went to the agency?'

Beginning to feel the small price from when he'd used the various spells to escape, Conan avoided telepathy. Instead, he whispered, "That's exactly what happened. …I'm just glad Ojiisan and Ran weren't there. But that's in the past now." Glancing up at his mirror image, he asked, "Just what are you doing heading back like this?"

Probably feeling awkward using his thoughts to speak while Conan was talking normally, Kuroba pulled away his arm covered by his green coat and stated, "Well, my old man had a feeling. I couldn't hear him all that well, but he did manage one thing…Houseki. …apparently she's closer than we thought."

"…You have no idea." Slipping up, Conan instantly quieted and looked away.

But it was too late. "…What do you mean, Kudo? …Do you…Do you know where she is?"

Aware that he wasn't the one, Conan felt no need to lie. "…Yeah. She's actually…inside of someone."

"…like she was with you. …and me." Seeming to recall something, Kuroba's eyes widened. "Wait…is she…is she in…Hattori?"

"…Why do you say that?"

"Well, back at your place - your actual place, I mean - when she left me, I went to the library…since that was basically the only room I knew how to get to. Inside, Okiya attacked us. He landed a hit on Hattori that sort of knocked him off balance. After that…Hattori had been holding his back, but Okiya's attack came from the front, not behind." Lowering his volume to almost inaudible, he finished, "…she must've went inside him then."

"…So that's how it happened." Feeling that Kuroba was taking the news surprisingly well, Conan rose. Staring as Kaito's green jacket unfolded with him into a standing position, Conan turned to leave. But before he could say what he intended to, something else crossed his mind: something far more dominant. Sweat rolling down his cheek as his pupils shook and shrunk, Conan mumbled with his back facing Kuroba, "…you were going to shop for groceries, right?"

"Hm? …yeah." with a small chuckle he added, "At least, that's what Ran-chan thought so."

"…if that's the case…" unable to turn, unable to do anything else, Conan let out the dreadful question, "…why do you suddenly have a green jacket instead of the navy blue one you were wearing when you left?"

There was a long, unbearable pause before the answer came. Even more excruciating was the familiar Osakan accent that laced the words, "…Why answer somethin' when it's that obvious?"

Finally turning, Conan came face to face with the quickly moving Soul Smith. A toothy smile on his face, his oncoming hand nearly covered Conan's eyes before he saw Hattori's own. Just as the others had described, the horrid, possessing, blood red swam within them. With Houseki's power pulsing through the hand restricting any movement, Conan heard Hattori's voice say one last thing before the Osakan's own abilities came into play.

"Don't be down, Kudo. At least this way, ya won't truly die."

Hearing a crackle of power, he expected it to end right then, but it didn't. Instead, he felt himself get thrown backwards, noisily knocking down a trashcan. In wonder at what happened, as he looked up and saw his answer, he wished the blow would've knocked him out.

"…Did you hear that?" Kazuha swirled to face the direction Ran and Yuusaku were looking in.

Nodding, Ran gave her input, "It kind of sounded like a trashcan being knocked over." Letting out a half-hearted laugh, she teased, "Maybe it's like that one time and it's Conan-kun again-"

…A…Agh…AGHHHH!!

Silencing them and almost everyone within a block radius came the scream. Completely facing the source of the noise now, Kazuha stuttered, "That…Th-That sounded like Heiji…" Looking back as if to confirm what she'd heard, Kazuha immediately ran off as the two at her back nodded. Following, Yuusaku had a bad feeling in his gut.

This was definitely confirmed when he saw Houseki - with her black hair - peering into an alley. Rage dwelling inside at what she'd done and knowing she could be up to know good, he nearly landed a kick at her head. Ducking, she managed to dodge his next jabs. Before he could actually hit her, Kazuha distracted him and when he glanced back, she was already gone.

Still not actually venturing into the alley, Kazuha questioned from the sidewalk, "Heiji, just what are you doing in this part of town? …and screaming, for crying out loud!"

His back to the street, Heiji seemed to be struggling while holding onto something. Quite far into the alley and without his glasses Yuusaku couldn't tell what it was. Though, it wouldn't take much to guess, considering only seconds passed before there was a shout from beyond Heiji.

"Damn it, let me go! She's getting away you idiot!"

Recognizing the voice immediately along with the girls, Yuusaku was not the least surprised as Heiji turned revealing Shinichi in his arms. Hostile in Heiji's grip, Shinichi was determined to be put down - he was even cursing a bit. Whether he didn't notice the girls there or he didn't care didn't matter seeing as Ran was about to make her presence quite well-known.

Hands on her hips and her mouth a frown, she chided, "Conan-kun! You shouldn't use that kind of language!"

When Shinichi halted his actions immediately after Ran's words, Yuusaku noticed something was off. He was shocked, but not because the girls were there - it was something else. Reading his mind proved useless as even his thoughts were empty.

Crossing her arms, Kazuha sent an icy stare Heiji's way. "You're probably the one who taught him that language, aren't you, Heiji?"

"Hey, just because there isn't an explanation for somethin' doesn't mean I'm instantly the solution!" Thinking on the spot, Heiji spat out an excuse, "I'll have ya know I just happened t' notice Conan-kun runnin' down this alley. When I asked 'im what he was doin', he wouldn't answer, so I had t' resort to…other measures."

"Oh, Conan-kun…" Sighing, Ran approached, "Here, I can take him home, Hattori-kun."

Just as Ran had shut him up, she just as easily got him to start up again, "N-No! I-I'll just stay with Heiji-niichan!" Beginning to kick as Ran brushed off his pleas, he accidentally hit Heiji a few times. With a slight irritation Heiji held him out just over Ran's hands. It was a sure catch, no way it would miss…in normal circumstances.

However, that moment was far from normal and Shinichi fell to the ground.

"Wh-What?" Blinking away some confusion, Ran knelt down, "Are you okay, Conan-kun?"

Flinching, he waved his hands in front of himself, "Y-Yes, I'm fine!"

As the others gathered around, Ran extended her arm toward his forehead as he rose, "You're looking a little pale ag-"

Her sentence stopped short, but her hand…it went too far. Causing each pair of eyes to widen immensely, they all - excluding Shinichi - could only stare at Ran's hand: her hand which - defying everything they'd ever known regarding matter - went partially into Shinichi's forehead.

Retracting it slowly as if she may bring something back, Ran's hand shook as she stared at it. Faster than any of them could've expected, she quickly grabbed for Shinichi's shoulders.

But that missed too.

Petrified, Ran could only mutter, "Wh-What…Wh-What is this…? What's going-" She most likely would've finished her sentence, but she fell to the ground along with Kazuha.

Noticing Shinichi's extended hand, Yuusaku mumbled, "You knocked them out?"

With his eyes narrowed, he nodded, "Ran…I won't let her get involved in this. …Kazuha, either. This is my fight, not theirs."

"Wrong." Chiming in from behind him, Heiji summoned up a smile. "…this is our fight. You're not in this alone, Kudo."

Appearing surprised by the statement, Shinichi then smiled himself. "…I suppose you have a point."

"Of course I do." Losing the smile quickly as he looked away, Heiji seemed down. "Listen Kudo…you're gonna have t' fill me in on a bit…I…I partially know what happened, but…"

"There'll be time for that, don't worry, Hattori." Hands in his pockets, Shinichi's expression implied the exact opposite: there wasn't time. However true that was, he went on, "Before we do anything, we have to get them to a safe place. There's no doubt what'll happen once we go after her…and I don't want them hurt."

"Why not go to Agasa-hakase's?" Considering everything beforehand, Yuusaku felt this to be the best choice. "He knows about our situation, and I suppose he won't be caught up in this either. Besides, the kids know enough that they could help him keep up the lie while also keeping themselves out of danger." Walking further into the alley, Yuusaku cancelled the deception spell. Conjuring up his specific type of glasses, he put them on before tilting his head upwards. "We can talk about what's happened in the flight there."

Lifting off as soon as the two nodded, Yuusaku went behind Heiji and picked him up from under his armpits once he'd gotten a secure grip on Kazuha. Careful to make sure Shinichi could manage with Ran, he flew off in the direction of Agasa's, using a small tracking spell to identify the general direction.

"There are quite a few charms around here, Akako-chan. I'm surprised you have so many." Gaping at the trinkets she, Akako and Hakuba had laid out on the table, Yukiko scanned them over, trying to figure out what each did.

Somewhat ruining the fun of it, Akako groaned, "I know…but it's too bad they're mostly defence…and not very strong ones at that."

"Wouldn't it be possible to amplify them using your own abilities?" Hakuba suggested, looking up from his notes.

Shaking her head, Akako said, "No, that would probably be more dangerous than anything. The items do sometimes draw a bit on the user's power, but I don't believe their effectiveness could be changed by the amount of energy they receive."

As always, Buddy appeared subsequently whenever the phone rang. Holding it in his hands, he bowed slightly before stating, "It's Kuroba, mistress."

"Kuroba-kun?" Raising her brow, she took the cordless. Holding it by her ear, she skipped the greeting altogether, "What are you doing, phoning here right now? …weren't you and Yuusaku-san going to help Kudo-kun with his problem of Ran-chan's suspicions?"

"That's already been taken care of." Able to hear the pounding of his feet and the panting that hid beneath his voice, Akako could tell he was running. Not hesitating for a moment, his voice was surprisingly clear when he asked, "Koizumi-chan, do you remember if there were any rivers heading in the direction of that wizard's place that took us to the Furui Islands?"

"There was one…the Inori River I think." Before she could ask why, he hung up.

Not catching on to what he was planning during the call, she instantly got it when he halted it so suddenly. Unable to figure out how to call him back, she made Hakuba do it. As he waited once he finished dialling the number, Akako felt the sweat go down her cheek. When Hakuba shook his head and assumed Kuroba had turned off his cellular, that's when Akako knew for sure.

'He's going back to the islands. …but why?'

Feeling the urge to go after him, something in her gut told her not to. Whatever Kuroba was up to would never amount to what was going to occur in the city during the next week. He could come across some dead bodies or fight the Kraken for all she knew, but it'd be nothing compared to the grand scheme Houseki no doubt had in store.

Partially worried, Yukiko tilted her head, "What did Kaito-kun say?"

"He was just asking about some river. …I don't know what he's up to but…I'm sure he has enough brains to be here in time for the events about to come." Glancing out the window, she had to wonder if that lie had convinced the other two behind her. In her heart, she painfully knew that if Kuroba was on to some lead they hadn't yet seen, he'd go after it. …It was just like him: stupid.

Stupid…yet courageous.

'…He's definitely a moron….' Aware that the situation was dire since she didn't even laugh at insulting someone (especially Kuroba), Akako frowned in distress at the sky.

It had been clear for the early morning, but clouds had rolled in. Each hour, they seemed to get darker. To normal citizens it was probably odd: after all, it was the time of year where the days began to get longer, why would night come so soon? Akako knew, everyone involved knew: with the Youkai-Oni in the way, the sun's light was beginning to dim to the earth.

Holding back all her wonder since she'd learnt of the comet's passing, Akako finally took the time to consider what could happen. Would the human race really be wiped out? …especially…by one person? Houseki was indeed powerful, Akako didn't doubt that, but surely…she wouldn't be able to kill everyone. Only just thinking of it then, Akako had to wonder '…Why did she kill everyone…?'

Going over the facts, Akako slowly drew out a conclusion. '…If she were 37 when she caused the Doom-La cataclysm, what age was she when Hoshi died? …Shinjo was 14 when it happened and when she became immortal I'm supposing it was in the same year as Houseki. Shinjo is 31 physically, so if Houseki is six years older…' Calculating the ages first, she then determined how long Houseki would've been searching for a way to revive Hoshi. Reaching an answer she was certain of, Akako was able to infer what Houseki's reasons behind the cataclysm were. '…seventeen years on a wild-goose chase…and she was devastated by his death in the first place. After that much time…the frustration and depression must've finally gotten to her…'

Indefinitely staring through the glass at the sky while she went about her thoughts, she was snapped out of it when she noticed three figures. Calling the other two over, she headed for the door as they arrived and she saw clearly what - or who - the figures were. Not bothering with a coat, she stepped outside with just her boots on, the cold wind pinching her exposed skin. With the two following behind her, they each watched as Yuusaku, Heiji - who was held up by Yuusaku - and Kudo landed. Wasting no time, Kudo got to the point, "It's about time we made our move."

"Already?" From behind her, Yukiko stood, her hand holding the door open by the knob. "What happened that made you suddenly want to-"

"There isn't much time to explain, Yuki." Rushing inside with the others at his heels, Yuusaku began before they even made it to the living room. "Houseki's other half already came for Shinichi."

Before any questions could pop up, Kudo continued the tale, "She just appeared at the agency's door. I was lucky that everyone was out and I managed to get out of there, but I ran into 'Kuroba'."

Not proud it seemed, it took Hattori a while to finally mutter, "Houseki had taken over me…and made me appear t' be Kuroba. Catchin' Kudo off guard…she used my abilities t' detach his soul from his body." Punching a nearby wall, he growled, "I was able t' get her out but…she managed t' get away with Kudo's body."

"If that's the case…" Yukiko stared down with worry at her son. "…why does Shin-chan look so…solid? In fact, why can we see him at all? I thought only Soul Smiths could do that."

Answering for the three, Hakuba let out his own deduction. "That's because of the Volley Comet, isn't it? Although it hasn't yet arrived, it's excess power is still gradually coming into effect here. I wouldn't doubt if some other souls will become visible during this approaching week."

"That's only part of it." Branching off Hakuba's assumption, Akako finished it off. "While you're right about the comet's power most likely effecting souls, there's also the fact that Kudo-kun's power is initially very potent. Not only that, since he was shrunk, it's condensed. Combining all of this, it makes sense that he'd be 'solid'."

"…I'm actually not solid, I just appear to be." frowning, Kudo added, "Ran found that out pretty quickly…" Noticing the reactions from those who didn't know, he briskly filled them in, "Don't worry! She and Kazuha are resting at the hakase's. When they wake up, he, Haibara, Kokoro and the kids'll convince them they were just…dreaming or something."

A bit off topic, Hattori suddenly asked, "…do ya know where Kuroba ran off to?"

Although already concluding exactly where Kuroba had 'run off to', Akako merely shook her head. "No. He did just phone and mention something about a river, but I think he'll be back soon enough." It wasn't the truth, but of course, in that group, when were they ever completely honest with each other? Right then, they had far more things to worry about then Kuroba at that point anyway, and he could take care of himself.

'…I hope.' Akako thought as they gathered the most effective charms from the table. Things were about to begin; what would the outcome be?

They could only hope there wouldn't be a Suru-So cataclysm.

Knowing personally that the effects of the spell that knocked others unconscious didn't last that long, Ai kept a constant watch on the girls. However, they barely stirred. Perhaps they'd actually fallen asleep.

Leaving Kokoro on watch duty, Ai went about playing with the Detective Boys since it was her turn. Although they knew that they had to assist in fooling the teenage girls about Conan's powers, they were none the wiser to the other events about to occur just after midnight. Just as Ai glanced at the clock which read 7pm, she, as well as all that were awake inside the house, heard the doorbell ring.

Instinctively, she followed Agasa as he headed for the door. Gasping as she saw the face past Agasa's shoulder, she could feel her face paling. "V-Vermouth…"

Stunning Agasa with her name, Vermouth merely smiled. "Don't be distressed, I'm not here to do anything ill-mannered. In fact…" there was actually a hint of apology beyond her face, "…I'm here to aid the Silver Bullet."

By that point, the Detective Boys had huddled down the hall. Careful with her words, Ai repeated, "Silver Bullet?"

"You know him well. …and you should also know well…what's going to take place in the upcoming days." She glanced back at the sky, which seemed to be glowing beyond the clouds. It resembled what it was like when there were thin clouds covering the moon, but everyone in the city knew those clouds were not thin. Focusing back on the bodies within the house, she paused for a moment longer before finally stating, "There's another threat besides the Boss…besides Houseki."

"Another threat?" Not liking the sound of that one bit, Ai was reluctant to go on. "…and what exactly is this 'other threat'?"

"He goes by only one name." Crossing her arms, Vermouth's usual smile had faded. "…Lucifer."

(February 20th)

Well, well…things are just beginning to stir up. A lot happened this chapter, I hope it was easy enough to understand.

Anyway, I have amazing news!

A certain something you're all sure to love is getting an upgrade.

What kind of upgrade?

The anime upgrade!

That's right!

Just a few days ago I was notified on this mind breaking news! Mark your calendars! April 17th is the big day this DC linked anime's going to hit the air!

I'm so excited, I can barely sleep at night!

Can you believe it?

A MAGIC KAITO ANIME~

…Oh? …Did I confuse anyone~?

*cough* Anyway, I hope to finish AWA before then so I can focus my fan squeeing more. Hope you enjoyed this chapter and can wait for the next!