Fifty minutes later the Detective Boys, Dino and I arrived at the diner café Poirot after making a small detour to our hotel and a liquor store. As the children went in loudly we followed after them timidly. While we received the OK from the owner, we, or at least I, still felt that we were intruding. It was after all a private barbeque party for the staff and regulars, celebrating the café boss's fortieth birthday. However, the feeling of uncertainty disappeared when the owner, Erkyure Hondo, welcomed us heartily.

"Lin-san, Cavallone-san! Welcome, welcome! I'm glad you've accepted the invitation!" the bubbly man called out merrily. He was about half a head shorter than Dino and his smile made it look like his eyes were closed. The man also had 'smiling' wrinkles near his eyes and mouth, making him look like a really friendly person.

"Oh, no. The pleasure is ours, … Erkyure-san." I replied with a smile as I bowed to the middle-aged man. For a second I had forgotten his name. It was a good thing that his family name sounded like Hercule. Perhaps that is also the reason why he named the café Poirot. Hercule Poirot, the fictional detective. "We wish you a happy birthday."

"The pleasure is ours indeed, Erkyure-san. Since we were invited on such a short notice we couldn't find something suitable, but we hope you accept this gift." Dino added as he presented a light green long rectangular shopping bag from the liquor store with his signature smile.

"Oh, you shouldn't have done that. Hahaha!" The man laughed merrily as he accepted the gift while bowing. However when he saw what was inside his eyes opened in surprise as he looked at us in disbelief, "T-This is the gift?" He stammered as I gave the man a friendly nod, still smiling.

With his jaw dropped he stared at the bottle of sake as I elbowed my partner, "I knew the bottle of Dassai Ni-wari San-bu was too extravagant…"I whispered, making sure the owner could not hear me. "He's totally shocked."

"What else should I've chosen? I have little knowledge on sake." Dino whispered back as he too kept his smile. "All I know that the brand is of premium quality."

"Of course it's of premium quality, I mean it has a price tag of 16,000 yen a bottle. It's bound to be a delicacy and for strangers like us to gift something so special…" I returned as I saw Conan look at the gift before he looked at us with a wry smile. His expression reminded of the many 'as expected of rich people' look.

"It's his fortieth birthday, it's a special day?" Dino countered.

"I… I cannot accept this, Lin-san, Cavallone-san." Erkyure said as he offered the bottle back to us. "For you to gift such a delicacy… I cannot accept it."

"Use your charms." I heard Dino whisper and I looked at him like he had grown a second head. Besides, I was not even sure which charms he was talking about. Unless he meant the perfect etiquette I used in my former academy days…

After growling inwardly, I put a lovely smile on my face as I straightened my back even more. "Please accept it, Erkyure-san." I said as I smiled politely as I held both my hands in front of my lower stomach, indicating that I had no intention of taking it back. "We have chosen this delicate drink especially because it is your birthday. It is after all a special day for a refined café owner like you. It would be our utmost pleasure to present you this beautiful gift."

Seeing a slight change in his expression I continued to smile as he let out a flustered laugh, "W-Well, if you put it like that, Lin-san… Then I will gratefully accept your gift." He said as he bowed slightly. In return Dino and I bowed too while giving our best smiles.

"The pleasure is ours, Erkyure-san." Dino added as we stood with our backs straight again.

As we watch the owner going back behind the bar while smiling ecstatically I let out a sigh. "If there's going to be a next time, I'm coming with you to choose the gift." I whispered, gaining a small pout from the blonde.

Looking around the warm coloured café, I saw that the place was not exactly crowded, but there were still enough people to make it lively. The majority were grown-ups and there was one particular man that caught my eye. It was not his looks that got my attention, but more the way how he acted while drinking beer. His laugh was… particular loud and I could not help to sigh at his drunken demeanour. It was only six in the evening.

"That is Kogoro no oji-san. He's a private detective who lives upstairs." I heard Conan say, making me look down. "I'm living with him and his daughter Ran-nee-chan." He continued as he pointed to an adolescent girl in a red purple dress with long dark hair. The girl was sitting with two other girls at the other side of the café and I could see that she was clearly troubled by her father's behaviour and I could only smile wryly.

"Private detective? So that's why you're so smart, Conan." I heard Dino inquire. "I was already wondering where you got your keen eye from."

Not exactly liking the undertone Dino had, I glanced at the blonde. His tone indicated that he was still wary of the little detective and I signed him not to go any further. I did not want us to get in trouble, considering that the boy had connections with the FBI and the Japanese police. On top of it, he was living with a private detective. The boy was literally surrounded by law-enforcement.

"Ahaha… Something like that." Conan laughed, wary slightly audible in his laugh. Apparently he, too, sensed an underlining meaning in the Don's statement.

Deciding to step in before any more suspicions were raised I asked about the Professor, whom I did not see on the premises. Neither did I see the little brunette girl. "Say, Conan-kun? Professor Agasa and Ai-chan are not here?" I inquired the bespectacled boy.

"Un, they already had plans for tonight so they couldn't make it." Conan answered.

"I see. It's a pity, I wanted to talk with the Professor some more." I said, however, my intuition acted up and told me that he was lying. There was different reason why they were not here, but it was not my business to pry so I left it alone.

It was also then that a young woman's voice rang out loudly, "I-Ikemen!"

Looking up at the sudden commotion I saw a brunette young woman looking in our direction, or more likely at Dino, as I could almost see the sparkles coming from her eyes. I noticed that she was one of the girls who sat with the girl called 'Ran-nee-chan'.

"S-Sonoko!" The girl named Ran called out to the brunette bob cut haired girl, as she stood up abruptly, striding right towards us.

"I think you need to prepare yourself for this one." I whispered, slightly amused at Dino's sudden change of expression. His expression told me that he dealt with girls like the brunette before and the experiences had been not too positive.

"Sonoko! I think he's already with someone!" I heard the girl called Ran say as she followed her friend.

However, the girl called Sonoko was already in front of Dino. "Hi~ I haven't seen you before." She said as she had an ultra-happy smile.

As she slowly closed in, I retreated with a teasing grin on my lips. However, before I could actually leave his side, Dino grabbed my shoulder as he pressed me against his body.

"Dino!" I yelped, not expecting the sudden motion.

"Ahaha…! I'm sorry, Sharon." He laughed awkwardly as his eyes begged me not to leave him alone with the girl.

"We… We are sorry for disturbing you!" The girl called Ran said as she grabbed her friend's arm. "Let's go, Sonoko! What would you do if Kyogoku-san gets wind of this?"

"Hah?" Sonoko called out before her annoyed expression met with mine. As our eyes met I had the feeling that I had seen the girl from somewhere. The light brown bob cut and bandana fringe, her dark green to brown eyes, the heart-shaped face with slightly lower cheekbones…

"… Ah!" I called out at the recognition.

At the same time she did the same as she pointed her index finger at me. "Ah! You're Sharona di Moteo, granddaughter of the leader of the international Novolag Infrastructure Group!" She called out.

"And you are Suzuki Sonoko, second daughter of the head of the Suzuki Financial Group!" I said, just as surprised as the brunette. I had never met the girl before, but I read some files on several organisations when I was helping out my grandfather with his paperwork on the 'upperworld organisation' Novolag. At the time I read about a possible collaboration project with the Suzuki Group in Tokyo, Japan, and there was a report included on their large reputation, including its family members with photographs.

"Suzuki Financial Group!?" Dino called out in surprise as his grip on my shoulder loosened. "The Suzuki Group, largest financial group in Japan, you mean?"

"Yeah, don't you recognise her?" I said as I turned to the perplexed blonde.

"Wait a second… You're Dino Cavallone, CEO of the Cavallone Financial Group, the greatest rising financial group in Europe!" Sonoko called out again after she took another look at my companion. "Why are two big shot people from two big shot companies in this café!?"

"Eh!? You know them, Sonoko?" Ran called out in surprise as the grownups looked up at the sudden commotion.

Feeling their looks on us I laughed awkwardly as I pushed us to the spot where the last teenage girl was sitting, watching us. "Anyway, let's have a seat, okay? Please?"

As I said the latter I glanced around café uncomfortably and the long haired Ran nodded in understanding. "Let's go back, Sonoko!"

When we walked to the other side of the café we took place at the table where the girls were sitting before. On top of the table was a barbeque grill. Around the grill were several plates of raw meat and different kind of vegetables laid out neatly.

As Sonoko and Ran returned to their seats I apologised to the remaining girl with dark, wavy, short hair; reminding my own. "Sorry to intrude." I said with an apologetic smile.

"Don't worry about. The more, the merrier, right?" She said with a grin. Her voice sounded a little boyish and I noted that her appearance looked exactly of a boy's. I noted that her canine showed when she grinned and that she had some peculiar under eyelashes. "Besides, I wouldn't mind to have a beauty like you next to me."

As she gave me a playful wink I looked at her with semi narrowed eyes, but chuckled when I realised that she was only teasing. However, before I could even answer Dino took the seat next to her as he eyed her warily.

"I hope you don't mind if I take this place?" He said with a visibly forced smile.

"Well, I don't mind. The question is, does she mind?" She chuckled as she winked me with a knowing eye, making Dino's frown even deeper.

Not exactly knowing why, but I felt a connection with this girl and the teaser inside me surfaced. Sitting in the chair next to Sonoko, and across of Dino, I chuckled along. "Well, Dino and I are both old enough to choose our own seats and I don't have problems if he decides to sit next to another girl."

Feeling the glances of Sonoko and Ran I just smiled at them.

"Despite the boyish appearance, I can tell she's a girl." I explained amusingly as I watched Dino's expression change into disbelief. He looked at the girl on his left and returned to me with an unbelievable look.

"Hooh… You're not bad." I heard Sonoko say as she gave me a sly grin.

The tomboyish girl grinned, showing her canine, as she held out her hand. "Sera Masumi. It's a pleasure to meet you, Sharona di Moteo." She introduced herself.

"Actually, I go with the name of Sharon Lin. Sharona di Moteo is my Italian name, used within the company." I laughed as I shook her hand. "It's a pleasure to meet you, Sera-san."

"Hooh… That's one way to dodge the publicity, right?"

Giving her another laugh I looked around the table and introduced myself again, "We might have started off a little chaotically, but I hope we will get along tonight. My name is Lin Sharon, to some also known as Sharona di Moteo. It's a pleasure to meet you, please call me Sharon."

"It's a pleasure to meet you, my name is Dino Cavallone. Just call me Dino." Dino followed with his signature smile.

"Uwah… His smile is sure bright…" Sera commented as she shrank back.

On the contrary, Sonoko and Ran were mesmerised by him as I saw them blushing slightly.

"I'm Suzuki Sonoko. It's a pleasure to meet you." Sonoko said dreamily as she stared at the blonde.

"I am Mouri Ran, nice to meet you." Ran said as she smiled at me. Apparently forcing herself not to look at the dazzling Don.

"Nice to meet you, Mouri-san, Suzuki-san."

After the introductions we started to eat and talked a little about ourselves. Dino and I told them that we were on a weekend trip and that we met Conan and the others this morning, leaving out the fact that we met on a murder case. I also revealed that I met Conan and the others in Paris three years ago and Ran mentioned that she heard about the incident from the boy himself. After some pushing from Sera, I retold the attempted robbery from three years ago. While I was telling the story, the children came along and together we relived the robbery.

"The Detective Boys are sure something else." I laughed in fondness after we were finished. "I'm sure everyone would be hurt if they didn't think of the plan to put those explosives in the elevator."

"The brat in glasses and his friends aside, I'm more surprised you managed to keep your cool throughout the whole situation." Sonoko said, clearly intrigued. "If it was any of us in that situation we would probably prays for our lives."

"Not only that, but you even thought about recording the whole thing." Sera added. "That was some impressive quick thinking, Sharon."

"And you saved Conan-kun." Ran added. "If it wasn't for you…"

"Let's not think about the things that didn't happen, Mouri-san." I said quickly when I saw her expression darken. It was obviously she cared for the four-eyed boy and I would have left out the part that Conan was under gunpoint, however, Genta mentioned it without much thinking. "Besides, the weapon that the man had, was luckily a fake." I added as a white lie.

Feeling both Dino's and Conan's gaze on me I kept smiling, earning a small smile from the girl. "Well, I'm just glad no one got hurt there." She said as she smiled.

"Everything came out well, Ran-nee-chan. Sharon-nee-chan is super strong! She knocked out the bad guy in only one blow." Conan said childishly, for once like an actual child.

"Hooh… So do you do karate?" Sonoko asked before she took a bite of her grilled eggplant.

"Well… I've been taught multiple forms of martial art. You could say I do Jeet Kune Do, a mix of different kind of arts, but it's not exactly Jeet Kune Do." I answered sheepishly, not exactly sure how to describe my style.

"Hm… I didn't think I would meet a fellow Jeet Kune Do user." Sera hummed in interest. "Wanna test who's stronger? You, me or Ran."

"Sera-san!" Ran called out in fluster as Sonoko giggled, "Ran is karate master." Sonoko explained with glee. "She won the Kanto Karate Championship not too long ago."

"Hooh… That is certainly amazing." I hummed with interest. I did sense something strong from both Ran and Sera, but I would not have thought they were both martial artists. "A karate champ and a Jeet Kune Do user, huh?"

Feeling Dino's gaze on me I looked at him. Seeing him shaking his head softly I let out a sigh inwardly. I did want to see how strong both girls are as a fellow martial artist, but I had to remind myself that this is supposed our weekend together. Smiling softly I signed him that I wouldn't fight or spar them.

"Aren't you protective of your girlfriend?" Sera laughed as she nudged Dino, making him almost choke on his drink. Apparently she noticed our small interaction.

However, both Ran and Sonoko reacted out in surprise at the girl's statement. "Eh? The two of you are in a relationship?" Sonoko called out as Ran looked at us with a slight blush.

"We've known each other since we were children, but we've only started dating for a small month." Dino answered along with a shy laugh. "And for the record, Sera, I… know Sharon can handle herself, but as her boyfriend I do worry for her wellbeing."

Feeling the heat rise in my face I looked down in my glass of iced tea. Hearing him say that he worries for me as my boyfriend made my tummy feel funny. It felt good though.

"So you are childhood friends?" Ran asked, suddenly intrigued.

"Childhood friends, lifetime friends, you name it." Dino smiled.

"That is so wonderful…" Ran replied as her expression softened.

"Hoho… You are thinking about your husband, aren't you?" Sonoko hummed teasingly as she nudged her friend, in which the girl got defensive, saying that was not the case.

Making eye contact with the blonde across of me we both shared a smile before Sera spoke up, "Say, would the two of you like to come with us after dinner? Since you're here on a trip you should experience something thrilling, right?"

"Thrilling?" I repeated as I eyed the blonde again. In all honesty, I doubted whether I could handle any more, considering that the whole day has been sort of thrilling already. A murder case in the morning and an unexpected robbery case in the afternoon.

"Kaitou Kid." She winked as she held up a finger. Just hearing kaitou made my heart sink already. I was not ready for another showdown with the police. Besides, how is a thief thrilling? A thief is still a thief whether he is mysterious or phantom-ish.

"Kaitou Kid? Who is that?" Dino inquired, noting the underlying layer of my poker face.

"Kid-sama~ He is a master phantom thief who uses magic during his heists!" Sonoko cried out as I saw once more her eyes sparkle with love and admiration. "He's also known as the Magician Under the Moonlight."

"Phantom thief?" Dino asked at the same time as I said "Magician?"

"Well, basically he's a thief who steals gemstones and jewels while using tricks." Conan said, without much admiration. "For some reason he also returns the stolen stones after the heist."

"What do you mean by basically!?" Sonoko grunted as she crossed her arms. "He is the best! Uncle Jirokichi never won from Kid-sama before."

"Suzuki Jirokichi, the general adviser of the Suzuki Group?" I inquired, recognising the name. "What do you mean by 'never won from Kid'?"

"Ah, my uncle is a glory-hound and he holds a grudge against Kid-sama because Kid-sama inadvertently stole the front page of the newspapers and ever since, my uncle has a personal vendetta. Now he challenges him every time he has a new gem of some sort." Sonoko explained. "Not that I mind because Kid-sama is invincible!"

"I-Invincible?" I stammered as I wryly smiled at the girl's enthusiasm. From the looks of it this phantom thief has quite the reputation.

"I've heard about that." Dino said with a thinking expression. "Suzuki Jirokichi has accomplished a lot and possesses many rare and valuable objects. I believe his current conquest is to outdo or capture this Kaitou Kid, right?"

"Yes, and at every showdown he invites Conan-kun to the exhibition." Ran added. "Conan-kun is also known as the "Kid-killer", right, Conan-kun?"

"A-Ahaha… Yes, I am." The bespectacled boy answered, laughing wryly.

"But I'm more surprised that you are interested, Sera-san." Ran continued as she spoke towards her friend. "I didn't think you'd be interested in thieves and things like that."

"Haha! I'm certainly not uninterested!" The tomboyish girl laughed. "After all, Holmes had Professor Moriarty; Akechi Kogorou and the Phantom with twenty faces. It's only natural for a detective to have a mysterious rival!"

"Detective? Are you a detective, Sera?" I asked in surprise. I didn't expect to meet another person within law enforcement. Besides, she looked young to be a detective, but again, Conan was about ten years younger or so.

"That's right. So if you ever have problems, you can contact me." She grinned before she put a piece of beef in her mouth. "So, are you coming with us?"

"I'm sure uncle Jirokichi would like to meet you. Both of you are big shot figures after all." Sonoko said laconically. Her tone indicated that she had forgotten that she, herself, is too, a big shot figure. In reaction I could only smile wryly.

Glancing over to Dino I saw him with a slight troubled expression. I could tell that he wanted to meet the general adviser, but something withheld him from saying 'yes'. The moment he glanced over we made eye contact and I realised he was troubled because of me. He knew that I didn't want to deal with police anymore and a part of me melted at his attentiveness and kindness.

"We'll go." I answered as I gave the blonde a quick wink. "We would like to meet your uncle, Suzuki-san. Besides, I've become curious of this Kid-sama you're so fond of."

"Then it's decided! You won't regret watching Kid-sama in action." Sonoko replied happily, at the thought of seeing the Magician Under the Moonlight. "And just call me Sonoko, Sharon-san. Suzuki is too stiff and it reminds me too much of the family business. Of course this applies for Dino-san too."

Reminds me too much of the family business. The way she said that made my smile wryly. Judging from her nonchalant tone I suppose that she had zero interest in taking over the family business. According to the file I read, Sonoko has an older sister, but she was already married into another group, making Sonoko the only heiress left of the Suzuki enterprise. Well, it is not that I have the right to judge her. I, too, have little interest in taking over either Novolag or Vongola. Even to the present, Tsuna and I are pushing each other for the position as Don.

So, a small hour later we left Erkyure's birthday party and we made our way to the grand Suzuki Museum in the first district after bringing Ayumi, Mitsuhiko and Genta home. They already made plans with their parents this evening and couldn't go with us. We did, however, exchanged email addresses and we also promised to update them on the heist. Apparently Kaitou Kid was more popular than I thought.

On our way, the girls, or more like Sonoko, informed us how Kid operated. His announcements through white cards with his signature drawing to sign its authenticity; his Modus Operandi of using disguises and magic; and his 'dreamy' appearance of dressing himself in white, a white suit, white top hat and a mysterious monocle. Because of the many, many disguises, Kid's true identity is unknown and I had trouble not to snort at that. I have after all the ability to distinguish people by their life forces, however, I have no intention in identifying the entertaining thief. That was certainly not my business. Moreover, judging from the tales of his heists and the fact that he returns the gems afterwards, I had the feeling that the thief was actually looking for a specific stone. What stone, no clue.

"This thief… Do you think he's after the Tri-ni-sette?" Dino whispered after Sonoko told us lively about the 'Teleportation Heist'. Judging from his tone I concluded that he, too, concluded that the thief was looking for something specific.

"I doubt he wants to destroy the world. His methods are anything but lethal." I replied quietly as I saw Conan eyed us thoughtfully. "Besides the Tri-ni-sette is divided in three times seven."

"Ne, ne, Sharon-nee-chan, Dino-nii-chan! What are you whispering about?" Conan asked childishly, making everyone turn their heads to us.

Thinking quickly I answered the boy, "It was about my bracelet, Conan-kun." I said as I raised my right wrist, showing him the platinum bracelet with seven crystals that father gifted me. At the same time I also raised Dino's left hand considering that we were holding hands and Ran gasped slightly at the sight.

Conan looked with interest at the piece of jewellery before he smiled, "Don't worry, Sharon-nee-chan. Kid is only interested in big gemstones."

"But you know," Sera said as she came closer, peering at the bracelet as she lifted her fedora a little. Apparently she wears a fedora to look more like her older brother and with it, she looked even more masculine. "Those stones are sure sparkling, even in the dim moonlight they shine brightly. What kind of stones are those?"

"Honestly, I don't know." I answered as I lowered my arm. While I know is that the stones are able to produce A-quality Flames, I have no idea what kind of stones these are. "My late father gave this to me and basically this is all what I have from him."

"Ah… I'm sorry." Sera apologised as we continued our way, turning a corner. "But your dad must have been nice to gift you something so pretty like that."

"I suppose so." I said, forcing a smile. From stories I knew my father was a kind man, and yet I felt a little sad thinking about him. While I have Ivan, it was still different. He would never allow me to call him papa. I do consider him as family, as my father in fact, but it was still different…

Feeling Dino squeeze my hand a little I glanced up and saw him smiling down gently. Seeing him smile affectionately, it took away my downhearted feelings and I squeezed his hand back. For some reason his little gestures makes me feel all better and I am truly glad that he is with me.

When we were at the end of the road I saw a classical building, illuminated in soft light. The sky was already dark and it gave the place a fairy tale like feeling. Mostly because of the illuminated greenery, dancing softly in the soft wind.

"It sure is crowded for this time of the day." Dino commented as we entered the grounds of the same classical building. Apparently this was the grand Suzuki Museum where the heist was going to take place.

"Well, that's because of Kid-sama! He's after all very popular!" Sonoko called out brightly as we entered the building.

Meeting a large, two-storeys high, bright space I looked around to see the nicely decorated walls with paintings. It was also then that we were greeted by an older man in his seventies.

"Ah! You came, Shiro's little girl!" The elderly called out happily as he smiled at Sonoko. "I'm glad you could make it."

Broad, bald, wild moustache, wild eyebrows and somewhat fierce looking. I recognised him as Sonoko's uncle, Suzuki Jirokichi.

"Of course, uncle!" Sonoko called out contently. "I wouldn't want to miss this!"

At that time the older man saw Dino and his expression changed into surprise, "Oh! Welcome, welcome!" He greeted with a smile as he walked toward us. "Welcome to the Suzuki Museum, Dino Cavallone-dono. What a surprise to meet you here. I am Suzuki Jirokichi, general adviser of the Suzuki Financial Group."

While he introduced himself, while holding out his hand, I let go of Dino and took a slight step back to make space for the two business men. While I am the granddaughter of one of the most successful CEOs in the world, that does not mean that I know anything on marketing and whatsoever. I have been studying about it, but I am still a scientist at heart.

"It is a pleasure to meet you, Suzuki-dono." Dino said brilliantly as he shook the adviser's hand. "I have heard many things about your success, sir, and I am honoured to be acquainted with you."

"Hahaha! The honour is mine, Cavallone-dono."

As the two men talked to each other, or more complimenting each other for their achievements, I walked over to the three teenage girls and the boy.

"And so they've started." Sonoko said wryly as she watched her uncle and Dino.

"Pretty much." I chuckled as I put my hands into the pockets of my jeans. "But I have to say this museum is quite nice, Sonoko-san."

"Really? But this is only the first room of the whole exhibition." She replied.

"The importance of the first impression, right, Sharon-nee-chan?" Conan said in a curious way. "If the first look is not captivating the audience, it's boring. That is also why Dino-nii-chan smiling so much, right? To leave a good first impression on Jirokichi-oji-san."

Looking at the little boy, a small laugh escaped from my lips. "That's correct, Conan-kun." Turning sideways, I looked back and watched the Don conversing with the older man. Seeing him all business like, I smiled warmly. He showed me again how much he has grown.

Then suddenly Dino looked up and smiled at me as he used his hand to point in our direction. The general adviser looked at us, or rather at me, before he smiled brightly as they walked towards us.

"It seems your dear boyfriend said something about you." Sera hummed as she put her arm around my shoulder.

"You must be a genius." I snorted in sarcasm as I noted her actions. "Say, you've lived abroad before, haven't you, Sera-san?"

"Hooh… How did you know?" She asked in curiosity as she released me.

"From what I know, Japanese people don't put their arms so casually on other people's shoulder. Meaning, you're going against the general culture." I mused.

"Ping pong! I lived in America for three years before coming back to Tokyo." She grinned.

Surprised at that, a small laugh escaped my lips. That might explain why I felt that little connection. The small connection that we both lived in the States.

"Sharon, I want you to meet the general adviser of the Suzuki Corporation, Suzuki Jirokichi-dono." I heard Dino say as I turned around to face the two gentlemen.

Putting on my smile I bowed respectfully, "It is an honour to meet you Suzuki Jirokichi-dono." I said before standing upright, holding out my hand. "My name is Lin Sharon, but in the world of business I am known as Sharona di Moteo. My grandfather has mentioned your successes before."

"The pleasure is mine, Lin-dono. To meet the granddaughter of that Timo is quite something else." He laughed as he shook my hand.

Hearing him calling grandfather by his first name, my smile faltered as I looked at him in surprise. Noticing my expression he laughed even harder, "It seems he didn't mention it to you, but Timo and I were once drinking buddies when he came over to Japan! How has he been? Is he still all business, like old times?"

Recomposing myself I let out a small, but polite laugh, "Grandfather had had some problems with his health, but he is doing better now. Thank you very much for asking, Suzuki-dono. As for the latter, grandfather is a serious person so I suppose he is still 'business like'."

"I see, I see. Anyway, since you're here, why don't we look around the other exhibitions?"

"We would love to, Suzuki-dono."

Thus we walked around the museum and I was very much intrigued by the old man's stories behind several pieces of art. It was not just paintings he has, but also several clothing pieces, mainly radiant kimonos, from various noteworthy people in Japan's history. He also has several sculptures and statues from all over the world. Somewhere in between the girls asked me to get a picture and when I took it, they grabbed me and Dino and asked the adviser to make a picture. At first I was not too sure of it, but Sera's casual behaviour persuaded me and a group picture was made. It was also then that we exchanged email addresses and Sonoko send the picture to everyone.

When we arrived in the last room, the amount of people was significantly larger compared to other rooms. The cause was the large glass case in the back of the room. Many visitors were standing on their toes to see the contents.

"Wow! There are lots of people around that glass case!" Ran stated as we looked at the crowd.

"That aside… Isn't that…" Sonoko mentioned as Sera finished it. "An aquarium?"

"Aquarium?" I repeated out as I took a better look. There was indeed water in the glass case and I couldn't help to gawk. Did the man even have fish in his museum? Seeing the golden name plate at the top middle I read 'Blush Mermaid'.

"That's right." Jirokichi said as he walked closer to the tank. Following him, the crowd around the aquarium dispersed as he continued. The moment the crowd took a step back, I saw many kinds of corals and other aquarium decoration in the water-filled tank, but the thing that caught my eye was the turtle that was swimming in the tank. It was a turtle as large as Enzo, only as big as a hand, but it had a large red stone on its back and I could only gawk at it. "The object of Kid's desire this time is the red diamond upon the back of the turtle, the Blush Mermaid."

Glancing at Dino I saw that he was just as surprised as I was and I heard Sonoko walk towards the aquarium to get a better look.

"Oh, it's true! It's stuck on the turtle's back, gold chain necklace and all." She called out. "There are a lot of jewels stuck on its belly too!"

Refraining myself to hit my head at the absurdness, I let out a quiet sigh. While the stories behind Suzuki Jirokichi's achievements were interesting, a jewel covered turtle was going a little bit too far. Besides, who in their right mind would even decorate a small animal like that? A better question is, are those stones even real?

"Kid has no chance to get this diamond, because the aquarium is made of toughened glass." The adviser said proudly as he knocked on the tank. "Also, the back is a two metres thick concrete wall; the top and sides are covered in a metal mesh made of a special alloy and on top of that, the turtle is swimming freely in the water. So even the so-called Magician Under the Moonlight shouldn't be able to steal this one!"

As the man was showing off, I heard Sera say something about having a bad taste and I let out a sigh. Apparently his vendetta against the phantom thief is more serious than I initially have thought.

"There is actually a story behind this turtle." Jirokichi continued. "I trust you've heard about a great Italian actress who died in an accident at sea about a year ago…"

"Dariea di Acqua." Dino said as the older man nodded.

However, before Dino could say another word, Jirokichi continued. "It is said that she kept this turtle as her pet and that she called it Poseidon. The owner of the Blush Mermaid was her after all."

"But why would she put the jewel on her pet?" Ran asked.

"The story goes that she desperately stuck the jewels onto the turtle with glue just before her ship sank, in hope that the turtle alone would be saved and taken in by someone. The jewels were both for breeding expenses and a sign of her gratitude. The local fishermen found it floating in the water along with its tank and, by happy chance, it found its way into my hands!"

As Sonoko asked whether the jewel had been appraised I leaned closer to my companion, "Why would an Italian actress name her pet Poseidon?" I whispered, finding the story rather dubious. "Alicia explained to me clearly that Poseidon is from the Greek myths and Neptune from the Roman's."

"Like you've just said, she wouldn't." Dino whispered back wryly. "I wanted to tell that Dariea di Acqua was born in Athens, but the words were stuck in my throat… and…"

"And…?"

"It was also rumoured that she didn't like reptiles… being them creepy creatures and such."

"So you think…?"

"I'm afraid so…"

Ouch. While telling the truth may be a good thing to do, I wasn't sure how to tell the prideful man that he might have been ripped off.

"Alright! Visitors' time is over now!" A loud reverberating voice rang out. Jumping in surprise, I turned around and saw a middle aged man with a short moustache shouting through a megaphone. "Everybody, apart from those who are involved with the case, get out of here!"

As the crowd slowly got out the man continued to yell, "Stop faffing around and get out!"

Putting one finger in my ear I frowned at the man, "Let's go, Dino, before our eardrums are destroyed."

"I suppose…" He replied as he took my hand. Before we left we went to the owner of the Blush Mermaid to say goodbye. "Suzuki-dono, it was a pleasure to be in your museum, but I'm afraid we have to part ways here." Dino said as he bowed a little.

"It was indeed a pleasure to be here, Suzuki-dono." I confirmed, also bowing.

"Nonsense! Cavallone-dono, Lin-dono. You are my special guests for this evening!" The general adviser said, along with a small scowl as he glanced at the shouting man. "I'll make sure you can stay."

At the same time we heard the same man yell again, "Hey, son! Didn't you hear what I said!? Everybody apart from those involved have to get out of here!"

Looking back I saw the moustached man pulling Sera's face and I felt a spark of anger well up inside me. Sure, I met her only hours ago, but I did consider her as a friend, despite the fact that she is a detective. However, before I could say anything Ran interfered already.

"Wait a second, inspector Nakamori! Sera-san is from our high school." She said.

"And anyway, what do you mean by 'son'?" Sonoko added with a scowl.

"It can't be helped!" Sera responded with an innocent smile as the man called Nakamori raised an eyebrow. However, to me that smile was anything but innocent. "After all, this is the first time we meet each other. That is why you pulled my cheek, right? To see if I was Kid in disguise, or… not!"

As she said the last word, she kneed the inspector in the groin and I flinched at the sight as the man himself groaned in excruciating pain. Jeet Kune Do user or not, getting kicked in the balls always hurts.

"Since you're sweating like this, I guess you're not in a disguise either, inspector!" Sera smiled innocently again as she pulled the man's face.

Turning around I faced the elderly again, "I still think it's better not to get involved, Suzuki-dono." I stated, trying to mask my disturbance at the sudden event.

"Nonsense!" Jirokichi laughed again before he faced the inspector, who was slowly coming back to his senses. "Inspector Nakamori, these two are my special guests and I want them to stay here."

"What!? You can't have outsiders in here! Who knows they might be Kid and his accomplish!" He shouted as he pointed at us.

Sighing at the loudness of the inspector I pulled Dino's arm, "Let's go, Dino. I don't think I want to be pulled at my cheeks by that man."

"Ah! Wait, Sharon-san, Dino-san!" Sonoko called out as she stood in front of us. "We invited you to see Kid-sama, so don't leave, OK?"

"But you know, Sonoko-san…" I started.

"Pretty please?"

As she clapped her hands together, she smiled pleadingly. Seeing the girl like that I put my thumb and index finger on my forehead as I let out another small sigh. What is it with these people and their pretty pleases?

"Alright, then." I heard Dino answer for me. "But we have to clear ourselves for being Kid in another way than being pulled on our faces. I doubt Sharon would just stand still."

"Will Sharon-nee-chan use Jeet Kune Do at inspector Nakamori too then?" Conan asked as I glanced at the boy. Despite that he was smiling I could sense his discomfort at the thought of seeing another scene like that.

However, I was not that cruel to let the man feel the same pain twice. I do have a certain sense of compassion towards others.

"I won't, Conan-kun." I said, smiling wryly. "Hitting someone from the police force is moreover a crime. However, I won't let him pull my face. A body check is fine though."

"Then a body check it is." The man called Nakamori grunted from behind us.

Turning around, we saw the inspector scowling as Jirokichi grinned contently next to him. "Sonoko, would you check Lin-dono?" Her uncle asked as the inspector walked towards Dino.

"OK, uncle Jirokichi." She answered before she addressed me with a mischievous grin. "It's time to check you~"

"Alright, alright." I chuckled as I spread out my arms. It was a good thing we left our stuff back in the hotel before we went to Poirot's. Explaining ourselves why we were carrying certain objects, Dino's whip among other things, would be a real hassle.

"He's clear." I heard inspector Nakamori call out after five minutes as Sonoko felt the pockets of my jeans and a minute later she called out that I was clear too.

"You don't look like it, but you sure are muscular, Sharon-san." Sonoko smiled slyly as I only smirked at the girl. "I really do wonder who's stronger; Ran, Sera-san or you."

"Who knows?" I hummed amusingly as Dino walked towards us.

"You sure are lucky to have a girlfriend with such a nice body." Sonoko snickered as she addressed the Don, turning him beet red.

"S-S-Sonoko-san!?" He hissed quietly as he eyes darted around.

At his reaction the girl looked slightly surprised before she addressed me again smugly, "Hooh… So he has another side than just his charming one, huh?"

"Just… Don't tease him too much." I said along with a wink, making the Don even more flustered.

"Sharon!?"

As a laugh escaped, Sonoko's uncle called out. "Now you've been cleared, watch quietly from the back, okay?"

"OK!" Sonoko called out.

Just when we started to walk to the back, Dino tapped my shoulder. "Sharon, I… uhm…"

"Well, if nature calls, just go." I laughed as I glanced up. "Don't get lost though."

"I won't." He winked before he left the room.

"I'm going to the restroom too!" Sera called out as she followed the blonde.

"Sera-san! The nearest restroom was crowded, your best bet is to use the one on the second floor!" Sonoko called out.

"OK!"

"How do you know that, Sonoko?" Ran asked. "When did you go to the restroom?"

"When we were touring around the museum earlier. You didn't notice?" Sonoko answered as Ran shook her head, saying that she didn't notice her friend absence.

As we waited we chatted some more on various subjects, including the subject on Dino, as many, many riot officers entered the place. As the officers took their places, the girls asked me questions what I liked about Dino and how and where we met. After answering, with some shyness, the small questions I asked them about their love lives and immediately the Suzuki heiress grinned madly as she teased her best friend about her husband being Kudou Shinichi. I was honestly surprised to hear the name once again and I asked them who this Kudou person is. They told me that he is a high school detective and their classmate. Sonoko also told me in glee that Shinichi and Ran are childhood friends and I made the link why she was so interested in Dino and me when Dino told them we were childhood friends in the café. It didn't escape me that Conan was flustered for some reason.

In turn Ran teased her best friend on her boyfriend Kyogoku Makoto, also a karate champion who is currently overseas for karate competitions. In return the girl got all shy and I couldn't help to laugh at her sudden change of personality. I also noticed that the Suzuki heiress was surrounded by strong people, it was like she had an army of bodyguards as friends, so to speak.

Somewhere in between Sera returned and I started to worry a little for Dino. Knowing the guy he probably got lost somewhere because he is still a klutz when he was by himself. So I decided to look for him. Scanning the building for his life force I noted that he was actually unconscious and a streak of panic shot through my heart.

"Hey, I'm going to look for Dino. He gets lost easily." I said to the girls, making sure that I had masked the panic in my voice.

"That's not necessary, Dino-nii-chan is there already." Conan said as he looked at the exit of the room.

Turning around I saw indeed the Cavallone Don walking towards us, smiling wryly as he scratched the back of his neck. "Sorry, if I had worried you, Sharon. I got lost." He said.

Blinking a few times I smiled, "Glad you've found your way back here."

"Not so difficult with those riot officers around." He laughed as he stood next to me, joining the conversation.

While smiling I checked his posture and behaviour. The way he stands; the way he talked; the way he laughed; the width of his shoulders; his length; his clothes. Everything was the same and yet, this man was not Dino. He was an imposter and the real one was somewhere else in the museum, unconscious. Could this guy be Kaitou Kid? Sonoko did tell us that he was a master in disguises. Did he do something to Valentino?!

As the thought that he could have done something to the clumsy Don, I felt my blood boil.

"Is… there something wrong, Sharon?" Dino asked as he looked at me, noticing the discomfort.

"A word, now." I replied curtly as I walked away from the group.

Going to the other side of the room I crossed my arms as the man followed me in hurry. "What's the matter?" He asked, not understanding why I had called him.

Making sure that I was out of the girls' view I grabbed his collar and pulled him close to me, "If you think you can fool me, then you've picked the wrong person." I hissed coldly in his ear, making the man freeze up. "Tell me why you've chosen Dino to impersonate and depending on you answer I will or will not rip off this beautiful face of yours, Kaitou Kid."

"W-W-What a-are you t-talking about?"

Hearing him trying to feign innocence, I narrowed my eyes as I heard loud cheering of Kid! Kid! Kid! from outside the room. "You know exactly what I'm talking about." I continued, not loosening my grip on the man's shirt. "The only reason that I haven't torn you apart and revealed your identity is because of Sonoko-san. Apparently she, and many others outside, are quite fond of you. So if you want to succeed this heist, you better fess up, now."

"Is everything alright, Sharon-san?" I heard Ran call out.

Looking in the guy's, now panicked, eyes he gulped, "I-It's because I've overheard you guys, that the Blush Mermaid being a fake." He stammered. "A-And he was already checked, so…"

Glaring in his brown contacted eyes I sensed he was telling the truth and that he was truly panicking. Feeling compassionate, I let go of his collar and I clicked my tongue in disgrace. "So it was a perfect opportunity for you when he went to the restroom. If you know it's a fake, why continue?"

As Kid stood normally again, I straightened out his collar as I smiled at the other small group. "Everything is fine, Ran-san." I called out with a small wave. Turning back to the man in disguise, I gave him another glare. "Well?"

"D-Don't tell anyone… but that man will be mortified if the public knows it's fake …" He whispered as he glanced at the general adviser. "Plus, I would never back down of a challenge." He added with a wink, only to be petrified again when we made eye contact.

Heaving a sigh, I crossed my arms as I watched him with narrowed eyes as the cheering got even louder as the guarding officers stood standby. I suppose the appointed time is nearing.

"Don't think I'll leave you unpunished because you're compassionate towards Suzuki-dono. I'll have you do your little magic show for your fans, but afterwards…" Not finishing my sentence, he gulped nervously. Changing expression, I grabbed his arm like I would do if it was the real Dino and we walked back to the others, "I'm sorry for that, I needed to discuss something important." I smiled, acting like there was nothing wrong.

"Don't worry about it!" Sonoko grinned as she gave us a wink. "I'm sure it was something personal."

"Sonoko!" Ran called out as she smiled apologetically to us.

"But the cheering for Kid is sure getting loud." Sera said as we stood next to Ran. Noting that 'Dino' was getting something out of his pockets he crossed his arms as he waited.

"This is sure some impressive security you have here, inspector Nakamori. I'm impressed." I said as I looked around. Not only around the tank stood guards, but also behind the banister of the open second floor. At the same time I saw Ran walking towards the window.

"Yes. This time we're ready for anything!" The inspector said proudly as he turned around. "In addition to the twenty men around the aquarium, we've got hundred armed men with searchlights waiting in the passageway on the second floor, eyes and lights focused on the aquarium. Also, the lights have batteries so if the power gets cut, we still have lights. Kid won't be able to steal away the jewel in the dark. There's no way for him to succeed! Hahaha!"

"So he says." I whispered softly, so 'Dino' was the only one who could hear. He only grinned and suddenly I felt the floor move behind me. At the same time Sonoko let out a loud shriek and before I knew it the carpet underneath me got pulled up.

"What the hell!?" I yelled in English as I was forced to move towards the aquarium along with Sonoko, Sera and Dino, all yelping at the sudden commotion. Instantly the inspector and several guards were caught in it too and before I could even do anything I was met by the cold glass of the aquarium.

"Ouch." I winched as I was hit by an elbow or leg.

"Aaah!" I heard Sonoko yell somewhere close, along with surprise groans of the inspector and Sera. Trying to push the limb out of my face I saw the turtle swim to the surface in the corner of my eye.

"What's going on!?" I heard the inspector call out.

"Three…" I suddenly hear a voice say out loudly in English. "Two… One…"

Hearing a soft explosion I felt the pressure of the carpet loosen behind me and instantly everyone fell down with a loud thud.

"Everyone, are you alright?" I heard Ran call out as I searched for the blonde while groans were heard almost everywhere.

"Never mind that, what about the jewel!?" I heard Sera call out as I saw the blonde wince from the fall not far from me.

Right, the turtle. Looking at the aquarium I saw no sign of the animal, but a small white card danced as it descended in the water.

"No way…" Ran said as she stood in front of the aquarium. "I can't see it… anywhere… Ah, but there is a card in the water! 'The shy little mermaid has dissolved into foam and disappeared in my hands… Kaitou Kid'"

After Ran read the card out loud, inspector Nakamori stood up as he yelled, "What did you say!?" Pressing himself against the aquarium he looked around. "How is this possible!? How can he get the gem and the turtle!? Look for it! It's gotta be here in the tank somewhere! Maybe in the shadow of a rock, or in the gravel!"

"Yes, sir!"

As the inspector was shouting orders I got up as I rubbed my tailbone as I glanced at Kid in disguise. He was dusting off his shirt as I saw a similar card in front of Jirokichi's feet.

"Suzuki-dono, in front of you." I called out without thinking.

The older man looked at me before looking down, "T-This is Kaitou Kid's…" kneeling down he picked up the card and read it silently.

"What!?" I heard the inspector call out.

"What does it say?" Conan added in alarm.

Seeing his expression change slightly he started to read out loud, "'I have taken the jewel. If you don't believe me, look for yourself.'"

"Wh-What!?"

As the man stood up he took out his cell phone and speed dialled a number, "Remove the locks on the aquarium mesh and bring a stepladder this instant!" He shouted through the line. "I shall check the tank myself!"

Stepping aside I watched the commotion fold itself, under a minute an officer came in with a stepladder and the top of the aquarium opened. After setting up the ladder, the general adviser climbed up and sat on top of the two-side ladder.

"How is it, uncle?" Sonoko called out.

"Is the turtle there or not?" The inspector called out.

Looking at the exit I saw the visitors eyeing inside, trying to get inside the room. Meanwhile Kid walked over to me with his hands in his pockets. "Are you alright?" He asked in concern, how Dino would ask.

"Yeah, I'm fine." I answered him as I checked him for any abnormalities, but nothing indicated that he had the turtle.

"It's… It's not here!" Jirokichi called out as I looked over to the man on the ladder.

"Th-That's… ridiculous, impossible!" The inspector shouted.

Hearing the commotion of the crowd, I saw that the guards had a hard time to hold them back and I could only smile wryly. Holding back a mob could be quite difficult and only several seconds later a ridiculous loud cheer sounded from outside the museum, "You sure have a lot of fans, Dino." I mused, slightly amused as I crossed my arms.

"Well, what do you think of it? Neat, huh?" He winked as the inspector grumbled at the loud cheering.

Smirking at his confident attitude, I watched the general advisor descend the step ladder as Sera noted how everything was well planned; the planted strings in the carpet to the winch under the chandelier to pull them up. As the adviser explained that they redecorated the whole place a few days ago, I couldn't help to notice the almost invisible bump in his jacket. A bump similar to Dino's when he has Enzo inside his jacket. "It's not so difficult to hide it if you have an accomplish from the inside." I whispered softly as I glanced over to the mystery man. "You said it yourself, he would be mortified if the public knows he bought a fake gem."

"Quite sharp, aren't you?" He mused as I glared at him, making him freeze up again. "O-Of course you are…"

However, despite that the guy put Dino to sleep and impersonated him I couldn't help to feel a certain degree of respect. The preparations were done magnificently and the trick he used to make the turtle disappear from our sight was quite interesting. He used the fact that synthetic diamonds have a significant number of impurity-complexes that contain a high ratio of magnetic atoms, such as nickel, cobalt or iron. To hide the turtle he could have planted some kind of strong magnet behind the relatively large name plate and to make it actually disappear he used the adviser to collect the turtle discreetly. This way the adviser could hide the fact that the gem is fake and Kid's heist would be a success too. It's a win-win for both sides.

However, the thing that impressed me the most was his disguise. The fact that he managed to copy everything from Dino's looks to his voice and speech despite that he had never met him. I really had to hand it to him, it was perfect. If it wasn't for my ability I could have been fooled too.

"You aren't falling for me now, are you?" Kid spoke up quietly in Dino's voice, amusement audible.

Blinking, I realised that I had been staring. "You wish." I huffed, along with a chuckle. Crossing my arms, I checked on the real Dino and noted that he was still unconscious. At least he was still in the same spot he was before. "I'll be honest, Kid. Despite that I don't like you for using him, you've gained my respect. I haven't quite figured out the details, but this is certainly a well-planned operation."

There was a little silence before he answered, "Why, thank you, Sharon."

"Alright! Everyone, it's time for a body search!" Nakamori called out and the girls called out for me. Apparently something happened that required another body check.

"For now, I'll be quiet since I want to know how this is going to play out." I said as I gave him a small smile. "And by the way… If you manage to get out of here, just remember that you can't escape from me now I've memorised you."

Smirking at his confused expression, I walked towards the three girls and Conan, who was deeply in thoughts.

"Having a nice conversation with your beloved man?" Sonoko teased as she glanced over to Kid, but let out a sigh as she watched him. "But really, how can he be so handsome? Don't you ever worry that girls go after him?"

"It's called mutual trust, Sonoko-san." I smiled, thinking of the guy. "I know he won't do anything to hurt me and he knows that I won't do anything to hurt him. At least, not on purpose. Don't you share same trust with Kyogoku-san?"

"I do! I really love him and I don't want to do anything to hurt Makoto-san." She called out, before shying away.

"Love talk aside, shall we start the body search?" Sera intercepted with a laugh. "Since Sharon, Sonoko and I were near the tank, we are the suspicious ones. Ran will be checked last. Does that sound fine?"

As we all agreed we started the body search among females. Meanwhile the search team investigated the room and emptied the aquarium to search for clues inside. While conducting the body search on each other, I listened to the conversations between the inspector and the search team. Apparently they found traces of hidden wires in the walls and ceiling, and Nakamori deduced that the threads attached to the winch were passed via the brace of the light to run along the walls and ceiling and tied to the carpet. When those were pulled, the carpet, which had been cut into shape beforehand, came up too. They also found a voice recorder besides the winch. The recorder was the source of the loud countdown and apparently it was designed that the threads would snap in conjunction with the voice. I couldn't help to feel even more respect for the thief. The execution of everything was just perfect.

"Inspector Nakamori. Perhaps it would be best now to just give up and withdraw?" Jirokichi said, a good forty minutes later. We already finished Sonoko's, Sera's and mine body check. "Even with the water removed from the tank and the whole thing being thoroughly examined, you still haven't found anything. Also you've finished the body checks of all the people here without finding the turtle or the jewel, am I right?"

"Damn it!" Nakamori cursed before he looked at us. "Hey, what about you over there?"

"We've finished the checks here, too! No turtle or jewel!" Sonoko called out as we looked at the brunette girl.

"But Ran hasn't been checked yet." I whispered as the brunette smiled mysteriously.

"It's fine! You can just look and tell that she's the real thing! Right? Ran…"

Quirking a brow I looked at Sera and she just raised her shoulders.

"But you know, Sonoko-san." I said as I put my hands in my pockets. "From your previous stories, Kid usually reveals himself after getting the loot, right? Why hasn't he appeared this time?"

"Hm… That true." Sera muttered, thinking deeply. "Maybe Kid's already escaped after all…"

"Well, it wouldn't be a surprise though. I doubt he would waste his time on a fake gem." I sighed as I saw the blonde walking towards us.

"Eh? What do you mean by fake?" Sera said as I saw Conan looking at me with surprise.

"Well, Dino and I found the story behind Blush Mermaid rather dubious." I said as I saw Sonoko drag Ran away. "The actress who died in that accident was in fact a Greek actress who married an Italian. It was also rumoured that she disliked reptiles, so for her to own a turtle… It doesn't really make sense."

"But couldn't it be another Italian actress?" Sera inquired.

"It could be if there were any other actresses who died at sea between two years and half a year ago. Dariea di Acqua is the only one." Kid added as he stood next to me. "And because we know Suzuki-dono's love for attention, we couldn't exactly tell him our thoughts."

As both detectives were in thoughts Ran called out in a hushed voice, "You're wrong, Sonoko!"

Turning my head I saw Sonoko whisper something to the karate champion and the girl shook her head furiously. "The reason why I walked away was because you asked me what the time was, and when I tried to check it on my phone, my screen was all black!"

"Really? Is that really true? Ran-nee-chan?" Conan called out as I could see a theory develop in his mind.

"Yes… I thought my signal reception was bad and when I went two or three steps towards the window the carpet just suddenly…" Ran answered before she leaned forward to the little boy. "I mean, Conan-kun, you were even following me, weren't you!?"

The boy's eyes widened a little, like he had a revelation, and immediately he ran toward the elderly man, "Hey, Jirokichi-oji-san!" He called out. "The clasp of the gold chain attached to the jewel, was it rusty?"

"Yes, it was… It was made of iron, after all… I was thinking of changing it to a pure gold clasp after the turtle shed its shell, that is." Jirokichi answered as I got a sudden revelation.

Even if the turtle got magnetised by the supposedly magnet on the name plate, there was still the chain. For that very reason he invented the trick with the carpet, so he could manually hide the chain with another magnet without being suspicious. That was probably also the object in his hand before we got hoisted and that same object interfered with Ran's clamshell cell phone. The strong magnetic field the magnet emitted, interfered with the cell phone's own field making it believe that the device was still closed and thus staying black.

"Inspector Nakamori, don't you think it's time to close things up?" Jirokichi questioned after ten more minutes as Conan looked at each person in the room. "We have search every nook and cranny already and we found nothing. Even searching everybody here, nobody had the turtle or jewel on them. It is only natural to conclude that the turtle with the jewel on its back has been taken out of the museum by the hands of Kaitou Kid. There is no reason anymore for the police to stick around anymore!"

As the older man pressured the inspector, I saw Conan looking at both Sera and Dino intensely.

"Is something the matter, Conan-kun?" I asked, making the little boy jump in surprise. I was wondering why I was even covering for this guy. Was it because my curiosity of what he was looking for or was it just the omertà that was rooted deep within me? I wasn't sure.

"A-Ah… There is nothing wrong, Sharon-nee-chan." The boy laughed as he turned around, chipping his own chin in a thinking manner.

"What are you thinking, Conan-kun?" Sera asked as I felt Kid tugging the hem of my shirt. Glancing over my shoulder I saw him signing to stand a little further. For some reason he wanted to talk.

Taking a few steps back I glanced around as I whispered, "What's wrong?" At the same time Nakamori tried to counter the adviser with the statement that they haven't figured out how Kid stole the turtle from the tank.

"Who are you exactly? You're not just some heiress of a multinational, are you?" He asked as I sensed Dino wake up. "There is no reason for you to cover me and yet…"

A little surprised at his words, I smiled a little as I glanced up, meeting his eyes. "I don't need to explain myself to you. I believe you're smart enough to figure it out eventually. And for your information, he's awake. I'll get us out of here."

As I grabbed Kid's wrist I got us closer to the adviser, "Suzuki-dono." I started as all of the sudden I felt a pinch at the side of my neck. Immediately I felt woozy in my head and at the same time I couldn't feel my legs anymore. Turning around I glared in the direction of the sudden shot and saw Conan in Ran's arms as the little boy looked at me, panic filled in his dark eyes. Something told me he was the cause of this.

Feeling my consciousness fade, I activated my Navel Chakra before everything went black.


Disclaimer: Case is derived from Detective Conan episodes 724 and 725.