Sorry for the long wait guys. It is finals time, so most of my time is spent trying to study or get in last minute assignments. But this is extra long so I hope it makes up for it. This will be based on episode 782 and 783 mostly.

I wake up to an alarm blaring in my ear and I hit it absentmindedly. Right, Bourbon came last night, and Jodie and Camel are coming over today. I might as well get the day started.

I walk into the kitchen, intent on getting some breakfast started. I was fixing some toast and was just getting ready to fix some bacon when I heard a slight noise. I turned around to see Conan in the doorway, wearing a brand-new outfit with a tie with the British flag on it.

"Good morning Akai-san."

I raised my eyebrows. I didn't know there were any other children clothes here. Conan noticed the look and hopped up into the seat by the counter.

"Yukiko-san brought me this yesterday from one of their trips to England recently."

I didn't have to see the eyeroll to know it was there. Hmm, not surprising.

"Did you sleep well?"

It was a little past eight thirty, so he must have slept decently, especially since it was his own bed and not on a futon at the Mouri's. Conan glanced up toward the ceiling.

"Yes, the best I have had for a while. Thank you for letting me stay over."

I nodded as I place a full plate of toast and bacon.

"Can you be on door duty? I am going to go get my disguise on."

Conan nodded.

"Yes, Yukiko-san just texted me to tell me she landed safely. Jodie and Camel are coming are over around nine or ten, right?"

I smiled in response.

"Yes. I should be done around then."

I grab a piece of toast and was about to head to the bathroom, when Conan spoke.

"Akai-san?"

I turned back to see him giving me a small smile.

"Thank you, for what you said. Although it was dangerous."

I narrowed my eyes. What did that mean? Was he talking about the encounter with Bourbon last night? Did I push too far? He noticed my questioning glare and smirked.

"Never mind, you will understand later."

I blink, and head toward the bathroom to start the disguising process. That was strange, but if he thinks I will find out later, I suppose I will. I put on the clothes of Okiya Subaru, feeling a small sense of comfort from the familiar clothes. I started painting on the foundation, the blush, the different cosmetics through many weeks of practice, following all the steps just like Yukiko taught me.

I had just started when I felt a buzz against the counter. I glance down to see my phone blinking, like it had received a message. I flicked the password and opened up my email and raise an eyebrow. It was from Mizunashi Rena. I haven't received anything from her since her warning me about Bourbon. What could she want?

Three letters, all capitalized. RUM.

I frowned, staring at the message for a few more seconds. Kir wouldn't risk sending me a message unless it was incredibly important. So that must mean Rum, the second in command was on the move, and that wasn't a good sign for us on the good side. I sent a quick text to Jodie and Camel to tell them to be careful and make sure they weren't followed, before I picked up the sponge to blend the makeup into my face more as I contemplated the predicament.

Rum was never seen, and was just as big a mystery in the organization as the boss. Even I didn't know who he or she was. However, I have heard rumors of how he or she does things, and it isn't good. He was a major player in this game, and the fact that he is moving is unnerving to say the least. Good thing the other FBI agents are coming over so I can pass the message on to them.

"Ara, started already Subaru-kun?"

I glance over from my fixated stare in the mirror toward the doorway, where Yukiko leaned against the frame.

"Yes, I thought I could start it as soon as possible so I don't waste your time."

Yukiko gave a small chuckle, sashaying up behind me.

"As if you would waste my time."

I turned back to my work, keeping my face still as I delicately brushed on some concealer.

"How did the awards go? I assume the award was for The Scarlet Investigator?"

Yukiko grinned in delight.

"Yes, he got best original script. I am so proud of him."

I am not surprised. After reading it over myself, I could tell it was masterfully written, and unlike some authors the transition from novels to script was flawless. That wasn't just me proud that a movie about me got an award, I was just praising Yusaku's work. It was about fifteen minutes later that I heard the scamper of tiny feet.

"Jodie and Camel are both here Akai-san."

I put on my spectacles, checking myself over. Okiya Subaru stood there, looking as normal as he could be. I glanced toward my teacher, looking for approval.

"How is this Yukiko-san?"

Yukiko peered over my shoulder, eyes twinkling brightly as she exclaimed excitedly.

"It's perfect. You managed to disguise yourself."

I slid the glasses up my nose, a small act of smug pride. Yukiko wouldn't lie to me, and she was an expert. Getting her praise meant that it must really be good. It just showed how far I have come.

"Thank you."

Yukiko chuckled as she patted my back.

"I won't need to come every week to see you anymore."

I turned back to look at her.

"I appreciate your help."

I truly did. If it weren't for Yukiko's support and techniques, we would have been found out long ago. She was an integral part of this operation that I didn't realize was important until after meeting her. She blushed, smiling.

"Although I am disappointed I lose my excuse to come visit you."

I see the deadpan look from Conan out of the corner of my eye. I couldn't help the small smile. If I was another person I would say her crush on me was adorable, but adorable isn't in Akai's or Okiya's vocabulary.

"I won't refuse you if you do come visit Yukiko-san. It is still your house."

Yukiko giggled while I see Conan facepalm slightly, before he cleared his throat.

"Subaru-san, Jodie and Camel are waiting."

Right, my FBI agents probably don't remember Okiya Subaru, at least not well. This should be interesting.

"Lead the way Conan-kun."

We walk calmly to the living room and I see Jodie and Camel's eyes widen in surprise, and wariness. I mean in a strange house with a person who is supposed to be their fellow comrade but doesn't look like him in the slightest must be difficult to accept. Jodie asked hesitantly.

"Shu?"

Camel swallowed as he asked for clarification.

"Is that really you Akai-san."

I answered still in my voice, making sure my choker was visible.

"Yes, it is still my voice isn't it?"

Jodie blinked at my voice coming out of a person that didn't look like me.

"But otherwise you look like a completely different person."

I feel a sting of excitement, feeling like a boy doing show and tell for his class, showing off impressive toys. Now that they know, I want them to know everything about the plan.

"But when I use this voice changer…"

I flick the button on the choker, and speak again.

"I become Okiya Subaru."

Both agents jump in surprise, which quickly turned to awe. Camel observed.

"Your voice changed."

I smirked, explaining.

"It's thanks to Agasa Hakase who made this voice changer, Yukiko-san's disguises, wife of the homeowner Kudo Yusaku, and Edogawa Conan, the Boya who came up with the plan."

I smirked down at my little companion, asking silently if it was all right for me to give him acknowledgment for the ingenious scheme of his design. Conan answered my praise with a half-shouldered shrug, as if it was an ;anyone else would have done the same thing; type deal. Yeah right. I could think of maybe two other people that could think up such a thing. Jodie asked Yukiko.

"But what is your connection to Shu?"

Yukiko fumbled for a split second.

"Well actually—"

Conan cut in, giving Yukiko a glance before explaining.

"They are my distant relatives. Akai-san was looking for an inconspicuous apartment, but it happened to burn down. So I suggested Yukiko-oba—"

I stiffened at the glare leveled from mother to son. Ah, Boya, you should know she is sensitive about her age. I have almost made that mistake many a time. Conan flinched, before finishing his statement meekly.

"Onee-san's home since no one is living here anyway."

Jodie still looked confused.

"Wouldn't your son Kudo Shinichi-kun be shocked to find a stranger living here?"

What a coincidence that the person himself invited me, not that I was going to say that. Yukiko beamed at Jodie.

"I have explained the situation to my son, right Shin—"

The roles were reversed as Conan shot an icy glare back at her. I couldn't help but smirk at the antics. Yukiko covered it with a stutter.

"C-Conan-kun."

Conan affirmed in his childish personality before letting his face dropping into what could only be described as 'why do I put up with this woman' as Yukiko chuckled nervously. As much of a train wreck this is to watch, I might as well try to get Yukiko out of here before she gushes anymore on her son and unknowingly spills secrets that should remain hidden. Not to mention we needed to switch to business talks anyway, which I would like to keep Yukiko out of. I switch off my choker.

"Anyway, Yukiko-san are you ok on time? Your departing flight should be leaving soon."

Yukiko glanced at her watch.

"What? Woah, look at the time."

She bent down next to Conan.

"See you later Shin-Conan-kun."

She only changed the name because Conan once again gave her one of his looks. To pay him back she sweetly kissed his cheek, which he immediately clicked his tongue, scrubbing immediately with his hand to try to wipe it off as his cheeks flushed in embarrassment. I had a sudden image of Yukiko doing the same thing, in the same situation to a high school Kudo Shinichi, in front of three FBI agents, and him reacting in the same way, and it was still hilarious. Their interactions are always so amusing.

I see Jodie's face contort into confusion. Ho, did you catch the name slip? Well I know I can trust Jodie. If she finds out the truth, then I know she will keep it to herself, possibly bringing it up to me, but no one else. We escorted Yukiko to the door and as she slid on her shoes, she exclaimed.

"Call me if you need anything Subaru-kun. I am only one flight away."

She blew a kiss, and ran out to the taxi already at the end of the walkway. Jodie hummed beside me.

"She isn't what I imagined Kudo Shinichi's mother to be like."

Hmm, I could easily tell, but that's because I knew more then she did. Camel turned to me.

"I'm surprised though. I can't believe James knew about this."

Ah they must have told James about my supposed resurrection, and I am sure James didn't even try to act like he didn't know.

"I didn't mean to tell him, but that night when Mizunashi Rena was supposed to fake my death, he noticed the coating on my fingertips."

It had turned out well. James had acted accordingly, as a man who is as experienced as he is would in that situation, and he knew if he needed me to act covertly I could step in when needed. It was probably for the best that he knew. Jodie frowned.

"Then why didn't you tell us?"

I understand kind of; I did lie to them, and caused both of them, Jodie especially, a lot of grief, and confusion when Bourbon dressed up as me. I say gently.

"I have told you before. To fool your enemies, you must fool your friends. They did in fact investigate you. If you told them I was alive, they would have found out."

Jodie and Camel glanced at each other, probably guessing about the imposter. Jodie protested mildly.

"Maybe so, but…"

In the end they had done their jobs well, and I was the one to draw attention back to me during the train incident. I sighed.

"Though I did take bit of a gamble, so he could realize our situation."

Camel seemed to understand what I was referring to.

"You mean Bourbon, Amuro Toru?"

"Yeah, I thought he would come alone, but just like this kid predicted he came with his real associates."

I had expected Bourbon to be completely hot headed and try to take me on by himself, but he seemed to be calm enough to realize that that could possibly not work. He didn't just want to take me in; he wanted to completely ruin me.

"It looks like his hatred for me is rooted deeper than I thought."

Jodie looked confused as she asked.

"His hatred for you? You mean what you mentioned over the phone?"

I really didn't want to disclose that information. I opened my mouth to turn the conversation to something else when the doorbell rang. All four turned toward the entrance to the living room. I place my hands on the arm of the chair to stand up when Conan hopped out of his seat.

"I can take care of it Subaru-san."

His voice was childish, but one look at his eyes and I could tell he was on his guard. I keep the warning I was going to tell him to myself as he walked out of the room. If it was Bourbon and he caught us now with Conan, two FBI agents, and me together it would be catastrophic. I doubt Bourbon would search the same place twice in a single day, but I couldn't underestimate the man.

Jodie and Camel stand, ready to deal with a potential threat when I heard children's voices from the hallway.

"You guys?"

"Ah Conan-kun."

"What are you doing here?"

The Detective Boys. So, the lowest thing to a threat possible. They know Jodie and Camel, and they don't know my connection to them, but I don't think they will ask questions. I smirk.

"I suggest we continue this conversation at a later time."

I stand and make my way to the foyer, already slipping the mask of Okiya Subaru over my Akai one as I hear Mitsuhiko say excitedly.

"We came to have Subaru-san solve a mystery for us."

"A mystery?"

I press the button on my choker before speaking.

"Conan-kun, we shouldn't talk in the hallway. Why don't we have them come in?"

I can sense more then see Jodie and Camel react in shock and surprise. Akai Shuuichi, letting children come and spend time with him? Not ever, at least in my previous life. Conan-kun agreed, and let the three children come skipping through the door, throwing off their shoes and chattering excitedly. They scampered down the hall, and Genta stopped, asking earnestly.

"Do you still have some of that curry left?"

Ah, the curry I had cooked a few days ago and shared with the Detective Boys when they were over at Agasa Hakase's house. I had kept some for leftovers and was going to eat some of it tonight, but since they were here, I suppose I could let Genta have it.

"Yes, some."

Genta cheered and ran off toward the kitchen, probably to get some. I turned around to see Jodie and Camel staring at me like I grew a third head.

"Shu, you can cook?"

Ah right. They knew that before I wasn't a chef by any means, and my cooking creations were kind of infamous in the division. I smiled politely.

"Yukiko-san taught me. I save money on food and is a good change of pace."

"Really?"

I snort out a chuckle. It was hard for them to not see me as Akai now, but they need to realize that I am both Okiya and Akai. What Akai couldn't do, Okiya can and vice versa. The point of both of their existence is to draw attention away from the other.

"Help me get some refreshments for our young friends if you would."

Now that I think about it, it is really weird talking to them in Okiya's voice, and I don't mean just the tone. The words themselves, the politeness are so different from my normal self, it is strange. I carry in a cup and a plate of curry to Genta, while Jodie and Camel attend to Mitushiko and Ayumi, and soon we are ready to learn why the Detective Boys decided to come visit. I was the one to ask.

"So, what is this mystery you want me to solve?"

Although, I am confused as to why they chose me instead of their own little resident genius. Well, I suppose Genta may have wanted some curry and that might have influenced their decision. Mitsuhiko explained.

"First the professor poured warm tea into four stainless steel mugs."

Ayumi picked up the tale.

"On three out of the four paper coasters he drew a skull with a black ballpoint pen."

"Then he turned the coasters over, and placed a cup with lemon juice in it on the coaster without the skull. On the three other coasters he put tea with vinegar in it."

Conan cocked his head to the side.

"Vinegar?"

Genta nodded, and continued.

"Then the professor claimed he had psychic powers and he would find the cup without vinegar in it without smelling any of them. He picked up a cup and happily gulped down the tea."

"When we looked at the coaster, it didn't have the skull."

Hmm, what an interesting little mystery.

"I see."

Conan leaned forward, also intrigued.

"You all shuffled the cups, right?"

Oh, look who else is getting into the mystery. Mitsuhiko confirmed.

"Yes, and the coasters while the Professor's back was turned."

So, the fact that he knew which coaster or cup it was is out. What about the tea itself?

"And he really put vinegar in them?"

Ayumi nodded.

"Yes, we tried the other cups."

"But they were so disgusting we almost puked."

So that wasn't it. What other factors can be influenced here? Conan asked.

"Is it the kind of pen that can erase?"

"Yes."

"But he didn't do anything to them after drawing the skulls."

Of course. The heat would make the marks disappear. If that was the case, he probably didn't even have lemon tea at all. I smirked, and I can see a mirror of it next to me as Conan also seemed to figure out the trick. I was about to expose the trick, when I noticed Jodie and Camel looking rather puzzled.

"Let's ask the members of the United States Bureau solve this mystery."

"What?"

Both protested verbally, before quieting down, trying to think. All three of the children leaned forward expectantly.

"Do you know Jodie Sensei?"

"Please tell us."

Camel and Jodie glanced at each other before shrugging.

"Sorry we have no idea."

After a few seconds of silence Conan suggested.

"I think I might have it. If Subaru-san wants to visit with Agents Jodie and Camel he can."

I raised an eyebrow at him. Are you sure Boya? You won't be able to join our talks which I am sure you want to be privy to. Mitsuhiko cocked his head to one side.

"How do you know the agents Subaru-san?"

I bit my lips slightly, not having a lie steadily available. Conan countered smoothly.

"I told Agents Jodie and Camel about Subaru-san's deductive abilities and they were going to ask him to possibly help solve a mystery of their own."

The children all brightened. Nice save Conan. Although, considering his life, he must be quite the accomplished liar considering all the under the table plots he has to conduct.

"Oh, so that's how it is."

"I see. Good luck Subaru-san."

I stand up, and nod at my agents. Boya was buying us some time for us to talk in private while he plays babysitter, which I hate that he had to volunteer in that role when he needs to be in here with us just as much as me. However, I wasn't one to miss an opportunity like this.

Suddenly I feel a the barely perceivable feeling of something slipping into my pocket, like a pickpocket. I resist the urge to apprehend the culprit, but I slowly turn to see Conan turning away flashing me a smirk. I follow after my agents, but I discreetly look to see one of the listening devices we used yesterday in my pocket. I smirked; I figured as much. Boya didn't want to be left out, so he was going to listen to any information we traded with one another.

I poured three cups of coffee that Yukiko must have put on earlier as Camel rifled through the cabinets.

"Hmm, there is no scotch. Since you are a whiskey drinker, I thought you preferred scotch to bourbon."

I haven't liked scotch since the incident; every time I drink I think of his dying face. I answer simply.

"I've been into bourbon lately."

"Speaking of bourbon, did he really mean to turn you over to the organization? If you explained how you were captured…"

That was a fair point. I could have just told that he used non-organization members for organization work and Bourbon would instantly be under suspicion.

"He probably thought I wouldn't talk with you two as hostages."

I was curious if they had figured out the trick yet, so I asked.

"Anyway, did you figure out Agasa Hakase's psychic trick?"

Both looked at me sheepishly.

"No."

"I have been thinking about it."

"But nothing comes to mind."

Ah, so they haven't changed that much then, I can see them looking at me hopefully, as if expecting a hint.

"The key to the trick is the pen."

Camel looked thoughtful, while Jodie snapped her fingers after a moment.

"Wait, it was erasable right? Then the skulls all erased from the coasters due to the heat erasing the ink."

I just smirked in response. Camel frowned.

"Then the tea, how could Agasa Hakase tell which one had the lemon in it, unless…"

I nodded.

"Yes, all the tea had vinegar to begin with. Agasa Hakase just pretended his tasted good."

Camel scowled.

"Isn't that cheating?"

It was rather childish for an old man, but I bet watching those three drinking that disgusting tea was entertaining at least.

"Cheating? Once you know how a trick works, that what most of them are."

Camel still looked unsatisfied.

"I guess."

Jodie sighed.

"And, why did you have us check to see if anyone was following us and come here? Surely you didn't want to show us your improved talent for disguises."

Ah getting down to business. I understand how dangerous this was calling them out here. I did want to show them a little bit about my new life, but that purpose took to the backburner as Kir's message took precedence.

"No, this morning, I received a message from Mizunashi Rena, Kir."

Jodie leapt out of her chair.

"What?"

Camel smiled hopefully.

"Then they don't know you are alive."

That was true, but I didn't expect them to know. I knew Bourbon wouldn't turn me in after last night.

I drew my phone out of my pocket to show them.

"No, but her message only contained three letters."

"Three letters?"

"Was it an abbreviation?"

I opened the message and held it up for them to see.

"No, it is the name of a liquor you are familiar with. R-U-M, Rum, one of their codenames."

"Rum?"

They don't seem to understand how big this is, I should probably explain.

"When I was in the organization, I heard the name a few times. It seems he is one of the boss's close advisors."

Camel and Jodie glanced at each other and I could see the small sliver of fear as the gravity of the situation hit them.

"A close advisor?"

"But we haven't heard anything about that."

I concluded.

"Since it was only one word it was probably an urgent message. She couldn't afford to tell you. In any case, tell James someone big is on the move, someone bigger then Gin."

We have to all tread carefully. Most of us, Boya and I especially have so many secrets against the organization, built like a spiderweb around us. If Rum gets close, he can easily destroy that web and our lives along with it. He isn't bigger then Gin for nothing. Jodie nodded.

"All right, we will, once we get back. Is there anything else you need from us?"

I glance out of the kitchen window.

"No. I don't think I have to tell you to limit contact with me and not come here unless it is an emergency."

Jodie and Camel both nodded.

"Still Akai-san it is good to see you again."

I crack open an eye.

"Watch the name Camel."

Suddenly I hear little feet running in the hallway.

"Thanks Subaru-san for the curry."

"And the tea."

"Thanks for having us. We are going to play."

"Come on Conan."

I peer out to see the kids all putting on their shoes. Conan sauntered into the kitchen, both his hands in his pockets.

"I am leaving Subaru-san."

I smirked as I knelt down to his level.

"Did all the kids get what they needed?"

Did he hear what I said with the listening bug he planted earlier? He seemed to realize my meaning and smiled childishly.

"Yes. Thank you."

He held out his hand like he wanted a hand shake. I take it warily, wondering what it could be for, when I felt something plastic and about three inches long get palmed off to me. I narrowed my eyes slightly. What could that be? I checked to see a flash drive in my hand. Conan stepped back, hands going back in his pockets.

"A tape of our encounter last night. I thought you might want to look it over?"

Wait, the video footage of Bourbon and Yusaku dressed up as me? That was invaluable. I couldn't wait to see that.

"Thank you Boya. I have a present for you as well."

I handed back the listening bug which Conan only raised an eyebrow at. Conan waved to Jodie and Camel, and scampered off out the door. Jodie and Camel didn't seem to think it was strange and said their farewells also, heading out cautiously.

Finally, I was alone. I clean up the dishes and things left by my visitors, setting them in the sink and finally go to the library, setting back in my chair and putting the flash drive into the laptop. One file was in the folder, a video. I clicked on it, curious as to see how this encounter played out.

Immediately I recognize the camera from one I had placed up in the television speaker, showing Bourbon's face as he watched the television in mild interest, which was playing the Macademy Awards from the sound of it.

"Have a seat."

'Okiya' called from out of sight. Bourbon glanced off to the side and replied.

"Thank you."

I settled back, ready to watch the show. I could claim it was for research purposes, that I was doing reconnaissance on the enemy, but I really wanted to watch Bourbon fail.

Bourbon scoped out the room, walking back and forth and I could see him make slight eye contact with the cameras placed around the room. He finally sits on the couch and I see his face look ready, like a lion ready to pounce on his prey. He was also cautious though. He expected Akai, so he was acting accordingly. I couldn't fault him for that exactly.

"Thank you for waiting."

'Okiya' walked into view, carrying a tray with tea on it, and I can tell by his posture he was forcibly relaxed. He was trying his best to not let his nerves show, which was understandable. He was facing Bourbon, and greater men cowered before him. It didn't look like Bourbon noticed as he smirked.

"Do you like mysteries?"

Okiya stepped carefully toward the table.

"I suppose so."

"Let's start there then. It's a simple corpse swap trick."

Bourbon's face said he already won, and I can't wait until Yusaku and Conan take him down a peg. Okiya remarked simply.

"Really? That's a standard trick."

He set the tray down on the table and sat across from Bourbon.

"So, what is this mystery?"

Bourbon leaned forward slightly.

"A man was shot in the head at Raiha Pass. He was burned along with his car. The fingerprints taken from his right hand, which barely escaped the fire, matched the fingerprints on a boy's phone he had picked up when he was alive, verifying the dead man's identity. But it's strange."

Okiya dipped his head slightly, playing innocent.

"What's strange?"

Bourbon narrowed his eyes.

"The fingerprints on the phone. The man was a lefty, but for some reason his right hand's fingerprints were on the phone. Don't you find that odd?"

Bourbon smirked at Okiya, as if he expected him to crack under the pressure. Okiya didn't even seemed fazed as he theorized.

"Maybe he had something in his dominant hand when he picked up the phone."

Bourbon reached forward to grab his tea cup.

"Or he was forced to pick it up with his right hand."

He lifted the tea cup with his right hand, to make a point. Okiya held out his hand as he asked.

"Why would that be?"

I am kind of glad I didn't fill Yusaku in on the total genius of Conan, just kept it in short details. It makes acting surprised as Bourbon ask him questions much easier. Bourbon poured some cream in his tea, explaining easily.

"Because another man had picked it up before he did, and that man was right handed."

Okiya asked in confusion.

"Another man?"

"Yes, although in reality they meant for three men to pick up the phone."

Bourbon took a sip of tea, and when he opened them again, they held a slight predator gleam in them.

"Now I have a question. The first man was a fat greasy fellow, the second man was skinny with a neck brace, and the third was an old man with a pacemaker. Of these three men, only one of their fingerprints was on the phone. Whose do you think they were?"

Bourbon narrowed his eyes, measuring Okiya's reaction. Okiya thought for a second, before replying steadily.

"The second man. The fat man's fingerprints were wiped off; they didn't want to make the other two pick up a greasy phone. The old man would worry that the phone's radio waves could cause problems with his pacemaker, so he didn't pick it up at all."

Bourbon gently set down his teacup, looking satisfied with the deduction.

"That's right."

Okiya asked for clarification.

"But the dead man touched the phone after the dead man, right? Shouldn't his fingerprints be on the phone as well?"

Bourbon closed his eyes, relaxed as he asked.

"What if he made sure that wouldn't happen? The man anticipated this would happen and coated his fingertips with glue, or a coating to keep the fingerprints from getting on the phone."

Okiya cocked his head to one side.

"A film, so does that mean…?"

Bourbon nodded.

"Yes. The man that died in Raiha pass was the second man, not the one who was supposed to die."

Okiya placed his hand up to his chin, in such a Conan like fashion I could imagine Yusaku easily on the couch.

"I see, that is a very interesting mystery. But how did the man who pretended to get shot leave?"

Bourbon asked politely.

"Before I explain that, could you turn off the TV? This is an important conversation we are having."

I was also a little confused by that. The television was almost unnecessarily loud, could it be to confuse Bourbon, throw him off his game? Of could it be to prove that Okiya wasn't Yusaku, by proving that 'Yusaku' was in another place as well, giving him an alibi. Or maybe, Yusaku really wanted to see if he got the award or not. Probably a little of all three. Okiya turned slightly, smoothly countering it.

"Can't we leave it on? I am interested in the results of the Macademy Awards."

Bourbon looked a little annoyed, but sighed in resignation. Okiya prompted him back to the topic at hand.

"So how did the man leave?"

Bourbon collected himself, and explained.

"He was working with the woman who shot him, so he sneaked into her car and escaped, out of the sight of the men watching in the distance."

Well, close. He was right so far except that account, so I won't count it against him. Okiya confirmed.

"So, they were being watched."

Bourbon smirked.

"Yes, and the men watching them were fooled. After all the man was bleeding from the head."

Okiya asked, feigning ignorance.

"Bleeding from his head?"

Bourbon sighed.

"That was fake as well. The man always wore a black knit cap. Your neighbor invents devices that would put MI6 to shame."

He glanced off to the right, toward Agasa Hakase's house.

"He could easily create a device that would shoot out blood if a blank was fired."

Okiya surmised.

"So, he asked the woman working with him to shoot him in the head."

Bourbon smirked.

"No, one of the observers told her to shoot him in the head. He knew he would. The observer always finished people off that way."

Okiya nodded, and I could hear the awe in his tone.

"He is quite the clever man. He sounds like the protagonist in a spy novel."

Ha, alluding to your own script Yusaku-san? Very bold of you. Bourbon's smirk a fraction, looking for all the world like a lion licking his lips as he looked at his prey within his grasp.

"But someone else came up with this plan."

Wait, what? Bourbon didn't think I made it up? No…did he find out Conan's involvement? But how? I leaned forward, watching the exchange.

Okiya cocked his head to one side.

"Someone else? Who?"

Bourbon leaned back, the picture of relaxation.

"Yes, someone else. What the man said before he was shot proves it. 'to think you went this far.', so he said."

How? How had he made the connection? Okiya seemed to follow my line of thinking.

"To think you went this far? It sounds to me like he was lamenting his bad luck."

That was what it was meant to sound like. Only Kir was supposed to understand the full meaning behind that message. Bourbon narrowed his eyes.

"Yes, that is the obvious interpretation. But if you add something to the end of his statement, it's meaning changes."

Okiya stiffened slightly.

"What would that be?"

Bourbon grinned.

"To think you went this far, in your prediction."

How? How had he read my mind like that? I scowled. I had meant to keep the boy out of it, only sharing with Mizunashi Rena what I thought about his plan. Wait, a certain memory, from this morning.

Thank you, for what you said. Although it was dangerous.

Was this what Conan was referring to? Although, that's right. This would be the first time Boya has heard of it. He wasn't there, and never asked me for details about that night. He was thanking me for the praise I gave him, and was saying it was dangerous because Bourbon had figured it out. How was I supposed to know? I didn't think anyone else would figure it out. Although, I am glad he got the message of admiration from me. He needed to know he was appreciated, at least a little.

Okiya asked.

"Ho, do you know who made that prediction?"

Bourbon nodded slightly.

"Yes, he was praising the boy who came up with the plan."

Okiya bowed his head slightly, and I could hear the intimidation in his voice as he replied.

"Oh, how interesting."

I can understand why. Yusaku was facing Bourbon in his own home, a criminal that was basically telling him that he knew his son was involved in this, and it will probably lead to Conan being investigated or turned in to the organization in the future. That would make any father raise his metaphorical hackles in retaliation, to keep his son safe. I can see Bourbon bristle slightly, feeling the threatening pressure as well. After a few seconds, Okiya relaxed again.

"I have one more question. What does this have to do with me?"

Bourbon leaned back in his seat, placing his hand on the back of the couch.

"The rest was simple. After the incident at Raiha Pass, I just had to look for any suspicious people that suddenly appeared around the boy, and that's how I ended up here. I am still not sure how the boy and this house owner's Kudo Yusaku are related, but it seems you were able to move in thanks to that boy."

Okiya nodded.

"Yes, my apartment burned down. I thought it was because the boy was kind that I was able to move in here. He said he was distant relatives to these homeowners."

Bourbon raised an eyebrow.

"Oh really? How interesting."

I see the minute movement toward his pocket. Okiya seemed to notice as well.

"Do you need your phone for something?"

Bourbon froze before he smirked.

"Yes, my friends are supposed to be doing something for me. I am waiting for their call. My friends are currently pursuing your friends in an attempt to capture them. I figured you would come clean if your friends' lives were at stake."

So, he is getting into the full intimidation now. He wants to get this over with, and pushing to the final move. He calmly picked up his cup.

"But perhaps you would be willing to remove the mask before I receive the call, Okiya Subaru-san."

He calmly took a sip of tea, before his eyes gleamed.

"Rather, FBI investigator, Akai Shuichi."

I tensed in anticipation, already knowing what happens, but am still concerned. Bourbon looks like it is game set match, and the pressure from his gaze through the camera was intense. I couldn't imagine what Yusaku-san was feeling right then. Both men were tensed, Bourbon was probably expecting 'Akai' to fight back in some way and was just waiting for retaliation. Okiya sat calmly for a few seconds, before he replied.

"If that's what you want, I have no choice."

Bourbon's eyes lit up in excitement and triumph as he leaned back.

"I appreciate it."

Okiya slowly, as if dealing with a wild animal ready to attack at any second, reached up, pulling at the cold mask adorning his face, unlooping it from around his ear and holding it out away from his face, looking stoically serious. I chuckled. Bourbon did say mask, he didn't specify which kind, and his reaction was priceless as he frowned at the action. He asked, irritated.

"What do you think you are doing?"

Okiya pulled the mask back, coughing twice into his hand, and effectively covering his lips as he said.

"I have a bit of a cold. May I put my mask back on? I would hate to make you sick as well."

Oh, so Conan must be talking now and Yusaku was covering his mouth just right so Bourbon couldn't see him moving his lips in a probably bad lip synching. It was a flawless transition. Exactly the reason why this double team was probably the best for this job since they can complete the same brainwaves and know what the other would want to say. Even if Bourbon questioned it, it didn't look out of place. Bourbon sighed.

"Not that mask. I am telling you to remove your disguise Akai Shuichi."

Okiya tilted his head to the side, the perfect picture of ignorance.

"Disguise? Akai Shuichi? What are you talking about?"

Bourbon cocked his head in confusion, narrowing his eyes on his target.

"What are you planning?"

He glanced off toward one of the cameras. Okiya quickly put his mask back on and I could see the barely perceivable relaxation. That was one of the hurdles that they had to cross, talking without the mask to hide behind and they did it perfectly. Now they had to prove we weren't the same.

"What do you mean?"

Bourbon leaned forward, hands clasped.

"Just at a glance, there were two in the entryway, three in the hallway, and five hidden cameras in this room. Are you going to record this and send it to the FBI? Or is there someone in another room watching us."

He looked straight at the camera and smirked. I swallowed as I could see the metaphorical claws curl around Conan, ensnaring him in their grip. I could feel the pressure myself. However, I am positive that this isn't enough to phase the Boya. He would remain calm in this situation. Bourbon only thinks he has won, that he thinks he has Conan and Yusaku on the ropes, when in reality it is the other way around. Bourbon has trapped a venomous snake, not a mouse, something that can bite back twice as fiercely. Conan is no way defenseless, and Bourbon is about to realize that. Okiya asked politely.

"Does this man look or sound like me?"

Bourbon stood, walking quietly over to the window, probably to check on his subordinates.

"You can disguise your face, and use a voice changer."

Okiya asked calmly.

"A voice changer?"

Bourbon stopped, closing his eyes.

"This afternoon I researched this area to see if your neighbor Professor Agasa had any popular inventions that he suddenly stopped selling. It was the choker voice changer. Once on your neck, it allows you to use your throats vibrations to change your voice. Stalkers found it useful for prank calls."

Okiya looked up at Bourbon, calm as the man who was about to expose all the secrets stepped closer.

"Yes, it is just small enough, to hide under your turtleneck."

Bourbon's hand inched forward to the collar. Okiya sat still obediently, not moving as the finger gently curled around the collar, pulling it down. I saw the exact moment when Bourbon realized he lost. His eyes so focused and his grin so confident vanished in a split second, dissolving into shock as he leapt back with a gasp. The choker wasn't there, just like we planned it. I smirked, feeling incredible satisfaction at seeing Bourbon in such disarray. Poor guy; this is why you don't underestimate Kudo Shinichi.

He stood there in shock, and I saw the phone start to vibrate on the table. Okiya stated politely.

"Your phone is ringing."

That seemed to snap Bourbon out of it, and he responded shakily.

"Oh."

He gingerly picked it up, holding it to his ear as he hissed.

"What's going on? Took you long enough."

He thinks he can still win. I can tell by his tone. Maybe he thought even if he had the FBI agents, the night wouldn't be a total failure. I see his face change again, eyes widening as he asked.

"What? Akai?"

He glanced toward Okiya, offering a strained smile.

"Excuse me, I need to take this."

Okiya nodded understandably.

"Take your time."

Bourbon nodded and stepped away, turning his back to Okiya, forgetting his existence entirely.

"What is happening?"

Another pause, before he ordered.

"Continue to chase them. We can still make this work."

Suddenly he pulled the phone away from the ear, and I could hear the faint sound of metal on metal. Ah that must be the crash I caused.

"What happened?"

He stood still, listening.

"What? Akai fired a gun? What about the pursuit?"

I see him step back, toward the bookshelf. After a second he gritted his teeth, voice rising in irritation.

"Anything will do. If any of them still work, go after him. If we let him escape, there is no telling where he'll disappear to next."

Okiya coughed lightly, and Bourbon whipped around to stare at him.

"Could you be quiet? The owner of this house just won an award and is about to make a speech. Not that I have ever met him."

Oh my gosh, Yusaku-san. I couldn't tell if that was just him wanting to hear his wife talk and is actually interested or if an experienced detective was calmly reminding a younger agent to keep operations as private as possible and he was choosing to share confidential information with a civilian in the room. Either way, it was hilariously reckless. Bourbon took the advice to heart, staring at the television as I heard 'Yusaku' begin to talk about the script and the movie. He decided it was irrelevant and turned, talking in lower tones.

"So, about the pursuit, can you do it?"

There was another pause as he listened to the other end.

"Akai? Hey! Is Akai there? Hello?"

He hesitated, then he stage whispered.

"Hey, what is going on? What's the situation? Answer me."

He then stiffened ramrod straight. Ah, this must be when I picked up the phone. I watched as he curled in on himself, whispering so low the cameras and bugs couldn't pick it up, but I remember what was said. He suddenly jolted in shock, almost trembling. Ah, poor guy. We really did completely throw his world into chaos.

He listened for a second and then I see him tense and I can see the anger in his posture. Ah, when I mentioned Scotch. So, that's the end of our conversation. He stood there for a second, before I see resignation fall over his frame.

"No. Now that they know who we are, it is dangerous to pursue them any further."

He hung up, and I see him tremble with rage, but when he turned around, he had composed a cordial smile.

"Sorry, it seems I was mistaken. I'd better go."

Okiya went from where he was politely ignoring the phone conversation to back to paying attention.

"All right."

He stood, intent to escort him to the door. Bourbon paused.

"Ah, before I go, can I ask you something?"

Okiya stopped, almost going back on guard.

"What is it?"

Bourbon turned to face him fully.

"Why did you let a suspicious man like me into the house?"

Okiya coughed once before answering.

"You seemed determined to talk whether I wanted to or not. I did think you were a rather talkative deliveryman."

Oh, was that the guise Bourbon used to get into the house? I will file that for later information, if I every meet Bourbon and have to be the same person in the future. Bourbon looked a bit bewildered, and a little relieved.

"Oh, I see."

He stepped out of sight of the camera, and I see Okiya follow him. I heard a muffled.

"Good night, thanks for the tea."

"Good night."

Then the sound of the door shutting, and the video cut off.

I leaned back in my chair. Wow, seeing the other side of the operation from last night was just as big a treat as I expected it to be. Yusaku and Conan played all their cards perfectly to make everything go so smoothly. Bourbon had no chance of victory as soon as he crossed the threshold. It was so satisfying to watch his deductions crumble into rubble with the planning that Conan did. Honestly, thank goodness that kid is on our side.

I do feel bad for him; despite what he, or anyone else, thinks, I don't hate him. I pity him. I allow him to hate me, because I feel like the truth would hurt him a lot more; guilt is harder to deal with as an emotion then revenge. I had nothing to fault him with either. Through fierce perseverance and impeccable spy work, he uncovered a plot that I thought would remain hidden for way longer. He had most of the deduction correct. All in all, it was masterfully done. He just had the misfortune to be on the opposite side as Conan.

I am still glad everything worked out though. In the end, he still has no idea where I am, and Conan is safe for the time being I believe. All is well, for now.