September 25th, 20XX
19:30 o'clock
Haneda Airport, Tokyo
Haneda Heights Sushi Lounge
Two figures sat close together in a corner booth of the bustling sushi restaurant, their voices low amid the din of conversation and clinking dishes. The restaurant's decor featured traditional shoji screens and bamboo accents, creating an authentic Japanese ambience.
The restaurant was filled with the scent of fresh fish, soy sauce, and a hint of wasabi, creating an inviting aroma that tantalised the senses. The sound of chefs calling out orders in Japanese, the sizzle of tempura being fried, and the murmur of other diners created a lively backdrop.
Large glass windows offered a view of Haneda airport's runway, where planes were constantly taking off and landing, their lights flickering in the dusk. Occasionally, the muffled sound of flight announcements could be heard.
"Flight JL123 to New York is now boarding at gate 25."
The older of the two leaned in, his demeanour serious yet concerned. With his striking green eyes and sharp features, Damian exuded an air of confidence as he gazed at his sister. Namira, with her dark eyes reflecting a hint of mystery, appeared composed yet slightly troubled. She wore a sleek black leather jacket over a simple white blouse, her hair tied back in a loose ponytail. Soft paper lanterns hung from the ceiling, casting a gentle glow over their table.
"Hey, how are you holding up?" he asked, his tone gentle yet probing.
Raising an eyebrow, she tried to maintain a casual demeanour.
"Why do you ask?"
"Just curious. You seem a bit off lately."
She tried to brush it off with a dismissive wave.
"Oh, you know, just the usual. Nothing to worry about."
"Passengers on flight LH234 to Frankfurt, please be advised of a gate change to gate 22."
Approaching their table was a waitress dressed in a striking kimono that seemed more like a tourist attraction than traditional attire. Damian couldn't help but smirk as he examined the overly decorated kimono, laden with bright patterns and glittering embellishments.
"Good evening! What can I get for you?" she asked with a smile, bowing slightly, her movements seeming rehearsed and somewhat stiff.
Damian smiled politely in return. "We'll have the chef's special sushi.
platter, please." Namira added, "And a pot of green tea, please."
The waitress took their order and disappeared again. Damian couldn't resist commenting. "Did you see that? The kimono looked like it came straight out of a souvenir shop."
Namira chuckled. "Yeah, definitely a tourist trap to get them to buy those at the souvenir shop nearby. But somehow charming, don't you think?"
Her brother leaned back in his seat, his gaze still fixed on his sister. The faint clink of glasses and the hum of conversation filled the air, blending with the soothing melodies of traditional Japanese music playing softly in.
The background.
"You're a terrible liar, Sis," he said, his eyes narrowing slightly.
She offered a sheepish smile, realising she'd been caught. "Alright, maybe I'm not feeling my best. But I'll get better. Père is right. The living is more important. We're always going to make new memories. That doesn't mean we are going to forget the old ones. Père said I don't need a physical item for cherishing loved ones but..."
"Well, wise words from a third-rate thief."
"Haaa... enough about me, how about you, big brother? What brings you to Japan? I thought you would stay in Paris with the team after I left them a year ago."
"Attention travellers, flight AF789 to Paris is now boarding. Please have your boarding passes ready."
He grinned, shifting the focus away from her. "I'm doing just fine. They'll survive a few days without me. But you...now, tell me about this mission of yours."
Caught off guard by his directness, her eyes widened slightly. "Mission? What are you talking about?"
He smirked knowingly. "Come on, Sis. You didn't fly all the way here just for sushi, did you? I know you too well. You even left that Lupin alone, which is a good decision any day, but really unlike you. Especially after that case..."
Sighing, she realised she couldn't hide anything from him. "Alright, fine. I'm here on an Interpol assignment, investigating the return of Kaitou KID."
He raised an eyebrow, intrigued. "Kaitou KID? The phantom thief? Oh right! You have always been interested in him since I've known you. He had his comeback recently, hadn't he? Did Lupin tell you more?"
Nodding, a determined glint appeared in her eyes. "Yes, he did, even gave me his civilian name and all. I have a pretty good guess who the successor is. Since there have been reports of his activities resurfacing, I asked Interpol to give me this assignment. They think I will have an advantage because of my experience with Père." She rolled her eyes.
Damian chuckled softly. "Well, sounds like a thrilling mission. Count me in if you need any backup. I didn't think the thieves would have any honour and give away secrets. But I have a feeling you don't want to arrest him, Sis."
She grinned, appreciating his offer of support. "Thanks, brother. I might just take you up on that, but probably more as an indirect helper. I can't have "civilians" help me. And no, it isn't about some lost honour, but it's because the original Kaitou KID was murdered and Père also wants me to find the killers."
He nodded seriously. "Well, stay safe, Sis. And keep me updated, even if I'm back in Paris or Gotham."
"Flight QR456 to Doha is experiencing a brief delay. We appreciate your patience."
Glancing around the crowded sushi restaurant, she leaned in closer. "Hey, can I borrow your mask? Pretty please! It'd be so convenient for me at night, and people will think I'm a fan of yours if they saw me."
He raised an eyebrow, his expression guarded. "Why do you need my mask, Sis?"
She leaned back, trying to appear nonchalant. "Oh, you know, just for fun. It'll make things easier for me, trust me. And I would have something of you with me, wherever I go."
He remained sceptical, but her playful persistence tugged at his resolve. "I don't know. It's not exactly something to play around with and could invite unwanted questions."
She pouted playfully, her eyes sparkling with mischief. "Aw, come on! It's not like I'm asking for anything else for my first day on my own mission, except maybe that updated grappling gun of yours would be a godsend..."
He chuckled softly, relenting. "Fine, but be careful with them. And keep the mask low-key. We don't want any unnecessary attention."
She grinned triumphantly. "Got it, bro! Thanks!"
Their banter subsided as the waitress returned with their order, setting down the sushi platter and the pot of green tea with practised efficiency. The vibrant colours and intricate presentation of the sushi momentarily distracted them, adding a brief respite to their intense discussion.
The platter was adorned with slices of sashimi, rolls garnished with roe and delicate nigiri, each piece a work of art. The sushi chef's precision was evident in every slice and arrangement, reflecting years of meticulous training.
The waitress poured the tea, the fragrant steam curling upwards, mingling with the fresh aroma of the sushi.
"Here you go, enjoy your meal!" she said cheerfully.
"Attention, please. Passengers on flight CA987 to Beijing, your departure has been rescheduled to 21:00."
The siblings thanked the waitress, who bowed and walked away. Damian picked up his chopsticks, a small smile playing on his lips as he watched Namira's excitement over the food.
"You know, despite everything, it's good to have moments like these," he spoke softly.
She nodded, her expression softening. "Yeah, it is. Thanks for being here, Damian."
Picking up a piece of sashimi, he examined it before speaking. "So, what exactly is your plan with this Kaitou KID case? Do you have any leads?"
Sipping her tea thoughtfully before responding, she said, "Well, the recent theft series have been eye-catching, but there's something different about them. It definitely isn't the MO of the old Kaitou KID. It's almost like the new KID doesn't know why the first one stole, especially since he gives everything back. He steals arbitrarily."
He raised an eyebrow. "What are your thoughts?"
She leaned in, her voice barely above a whisper. "I think I will intercept him at his next heist. He did just send another heist note after his recent theft. It's about the Blue Birthday Jewel which is currently displayed at the Indian Treasure Exhibit here in Tokyo. The heist is tomorrow night."
He frowned, his protective instincts kicking in. "Mhm. Are you sure you're ready for this?"
Smiling confidently, she replied, "You've been training me for this whole time, Damian. And besides, I have you to watch my back for tomorrow, right?"
He nodded, his expression softening. "Of course. Just be careful. If the original Kaitou KID actually was murdered that means those people play by their own rules. They still haven't been caught even years after the deed. Maybe they even infiltrated the local police departments."
Picking up a piece of sushi, her eyes twinkling with determination, she said, "Don't worry. I'll be ready for them. And maybe, just maybe, I'll finally get to the bottom of this mystery."
"Mr Black, please report to the airline desk at gate 14. Mr Black, gate 14."
As the siblings enjoyed their meal, the restaurant buzzed with activity. In the background, the sound of chefs calling out orders mixed with the clinking of dishes and lively conversations. The scent of fresh fish and soy sauce added to the bustling ambience.
Suddenly, a commotion erupted at a nearby table, where a group of diners seemed to be celebrating loudly, their laughter filling the air.
Damian glanced over, amused by the scene. "Looks like they're having a good time," he remarked, gesturing discreetly with his head.
Namira nodded, smiling at the infectious energy. "Yeah, it's nice to see people enjoying themselves."
Their conversation continued amidst the lively atmosphere, occasionally punctuated by the sound of laughter and animated chatter from nearby tables.
"I still need to check on the stone at the Indian Treasure Exhibit tomorrow, wanna come with me?"
"Sure."
As the siblings finished their meal, Namira's thoughts drifted to the upcoming heist she was planning to intercept. She knew it would be a long night of surveillance and anticipation.
In an unknown museum with a yellow 'Ancient Egypt Exhibition' sign right on its facade, a figure draped in a long cape swiftly made his way through the empty halls.
Outside, under the watchful gaze of the moonlit night, police officers stood guard, their attention focused on the museum's entrance, ready to spring into action at any moment.
The moonlight streamed through the ornate windows, casting an ethereal glow upon the figure, revealing none other than Kaitou KID, the renowned Phantom Thief.
The inspector on the scene, dressed in a distinctive green tuxedo and sporting a distinguished moustache, barked orders into his walkie-talkie from the parked police car: "Don't let him get away! After him!"
Pointing towards the museum, his officers prepared to enter. As the alarm blared and some windows shattered, signaling KID's escape, the inspector exclaimed, "That's him!"
KID seemed to descend gracefully, enveloped in swirling smoke before revealing a miniature airship.
"You… Don't let him escape!" the inspector shouted urgently.
Police cars roared into action, chasing KID and the zeppelin. The inspector leaned out of the car window, his voice echoing down the silent street.
"Just you wait, KID! I, Nakamori Ginzo, will catch you!"
Meanwhile, in an adjacent alley, the pursuit unfolded, with KID's distinctive white shoes leading the way as the police followed a decoy.
"Jeez," KID muttered to himself as he examined the stolen jewel, a marble-sized magenta gem on a ring, held delicately between his gloved fingers.
"He falls for my dummies every single time," KID murmured, flipping his cape and striding away from the scene. "Some people just never learn."
Emerging from the alley on the other side, he casually playfully tossed the stolen ring. Passing by a nearby phone booth, he mused, "With this, that's my fifth heist this month, huh? And I've got something even bigger in store for tomorrow. I'll do my best~"
Suddenly, the phone in the booth started ringing, halting him in his tracks. "Eh?" KID glanced around, taken aback by the unexpected interruption.
The ringing continued persistently.
"Uh… For me?" KID questioned, looking puzzled.
He reached for the handset and answered, "Hello?"
A menacing laughter echoed from the other side. "It's been a long time, Kaitou KID."
"Um… And who might I be speaking to?" KID asked cautiously.
"Surely you haven't forgotten my voice. I thought I told you to keep your hands off precious gemstones."
"Gemstones?" KID's brow furrowed in confusion.
"The jewel you just stole doesn't interest us, so I'll overlook this incident. But if you go after even one more, you're a dead man."
The mysterious man hung up, leaving only the beeping of the line.
KID's eyes widened in terrified shock. "Who on earth was that guy?"
Outside a dimly lit bar, under the soft glow of streetlights, a figure clad in a flowing cape gracefully descended into a nearby alley. With a swift movement, he shed the cape and the rest of the costume and transformed into a young man, appearing to be around high school age. With purpose in his stride, he entered the bar adorned with a billiards parlour sign reading "Blue Parrot".
Inside, the warm ambience of the bar welcomed him as the bartender meticulously cleaned some glasses behind the counter.
"Hey Jii-chan!" the young man called out cheerfully to the bartender, taking a seat on a barstool near the counter. "I just had the most interesting encounter. Let me tell you all about it."
"He told you to stop targeting precious jewels, Kaito-bocchama?" Jii Kounosuke, with his half-balding head and distinguished moustache, inquired, his curiosity piqued after Kaito described the heist.
Kaito recounted the recent warning he received. "Yeah, he said something like, 'The jewel you just stole doesn't interest us, so I'll overlook this incident. But if you go after even one more, a dead man.' Perhaps he's connected to whoever killed Oyaji?"
Jii listened intently, his expression serious. "I cannot say, but I think you need to be cautious, Bocchama."
Kaito let out an exasperated sigh. "Look, I've told you to stop calling me that! Jii-chan, just call me Kaito."
Jii set down the glass he was cleaning with a thoughtful expression. "But that wouldn't do at all. You are the son of my mentor of magic, Kuroba Touichi-sama."
"If you really insist on calling me that, I won't argue," Kaito conceded, with a slight shrug.
"Bocchama, I've prepared the props you requested for your next magic show," Jii interjected smoothly, eager to change the subject.
"Thank you," Kaito acknowledged a hint of gratitude in his tone.
As they moved to a billiard table, Jii pressed a hidden button, revealing an array of items for the heist.
"What's this?" Kaito asked, his curiosity piqued as he eyed a white bundle.
Jii leaned in and whispered an explanation to Kaito, who nodded in understanding.
"And this is…" Jii began, opening a box to reveal another set of props.
"Wow, that's impressive!" Kaito marvelled, his eyes lighting up. "Did you make all of these, Jii-chan?"
"No, these props were created by a professor I'm acquainted with," Jii explained.
"I didn't realise you knew any professors," Kaito remarked, genuinely intrigued.
"You'll have to introduce me sometime!"
"You'll meet him in due time," Jii responded cryptically, leaving Kaito puzzled but intrigued.
Before heading to the museum, Namira decided to investigate the 2nd Division's, Nakamori-keibu's division, plans for the heist. After examining the documents and finding discrepancies, Namira realised something was amiss. A significant allocation of funds for security measures caught her attention, particularly the considerable sum designated for lasers. To her surprise, an expense was also labelled as "special alloy reinforcement." "Why would Nakamori allocate such a high budget for that? And he even got approval from the superintendent Chaki. Unless...he's planning to...", she thought.
As Namira made her way to the museum, she paused momentarily to scan the surroundings. The lack of a significant police presence confirmed her suspicion that the heist wasn't expected until later that evening.
With determination, Namira swiftly scaled down the side of the building, landing silently on the ground. She moved with purpose towards the museum's entrance, her steps calculated and precise.
Seeing her brother at the entrance, she began to smile and gestured for him to follow her into the museum. Inside, they wandered among the exhibits, blending in with the other visitors.
"Do you think everything will go as planned?" Damian whispered.
"I hope so. But something doesn't feel right," Namira replied, keeping her voice low.
Their conversation was hushed, barely audible amidst the museum's ambience.
As they approached the exhibit housing the Blue Birthday jewel, Namira's heart quickened. She glanced around discreetly to ensure no one was watching as she subtly activated the bug she had planted.
"Why aren't there any police around?" Damian asked.
"I'm not sure. The card said the heist was later, but, oddly, they're not securing the area," Namira responded, her brow furrowed in concern.
"That screams incompetence to me," Damian remarked quietly.
Namira nodded in agreement. "Let's hope they have it under control by the time the real action starts."
"Well, if they're not going to do their job properly, at least we're here to keep an eye out, right?" Damian said, glancing around.
Namira smirked. "Always have to clean up after them, don't we?"
Their banter provided a brief moment of levity amidst the tension. As they continued their tour, Namira couldn't shake the feeling of unease settling in the pit of her stomach.
"Alright, let's move along. We'll come back here later," Namira whispered to Damian, and they resumed their exploration, their steps echoing softly against the polished floors. Despite the tension brewing inside her, Namira maintained her calm exterior, determined to see this through to the end.
As they explored, Namira's thoughts raced. She couldn't shake the feeling that something significant was about to happen and she needed to be ready for it.
After leaving the museum, Damian's phone rang, breaking the silence with its familiar tune. "Salut," he answered, his voice tinged with urgency. "Quoi? Comment?" Namira's brow furrowed as she listened to Damian's side of the conversation.
"Je suis toujours à Tokyo avec Namira," Damian explained, his tone serious. Her curiosity was piqued as she overheard Damian's conversation in French. "D'accord. Je prends le prochain vol disponible," he continued, his voice brisk with determination and ended the call.
After Damian booked his flight on his phone, Namira watched as he quickly made arrangements for the next available flight to Paris. "Is everything okay in Paris?" she inquired, concerned. "What happened?"
"Nothing she could explain to me over the phone, just that it's very urgent. I'll need to take the next plane back to Paris," Damian said resigned, his gaze fixed on his sister's face. "But it looks like I won't be able to serve as your backup tonight, sis," Damian added, his expression reflecting a mixture of frustration and concern as he finished booking his flight.
Namira nodded understandingly, though concern lingered in her eyes. "I'll be fine on my own. But it's probably better if we pack your clothes."
"And what about your plans for the heist?" Damian inquired as he hailed a taxi to take them to his hotel. "I just need to prepare my ride, don't worry. I'm a big girl," Namira reassured him with a smile. "I know someone because of Uncle Goemon. I will call them to prepare it for me." "Tch. You should really ditch those." "Connections are connections brother."
In his hotel room, Damian handed Namira the mask and the grappling hook she requested, knowing she would need them for her preparations. They then hailed a taxi to the airport.
At the airport, they hurried through the security checks and made their way to the departure gate. Damian's departure was imminent, and Namira couldn't shake the feeling of unease as she bid him farewell at the gate.
"Take care of yourself, Damian," Namira said, hugging her brother tightly.
"You too, Namira. Be careful tonight," Damian replied, returning the hug before heading towards the boarding area.
At Ekoda High School, the vast football pitch stretched under the afternoon sun. Kaito leaned casually against the railing, engrossed in his tablet.
"Another Kaitou KID notice set for tonight," he remarked, scrolling through the news. "His target: The Blue Birthday, India's biggest sapphire! The sleep-deprived Nakamori-keibu forced his eyes open to declare his upcoming victory."
Next to him, Aoko peered over his shoulder, her expression filled with frustration. "To hell with KID! To hell with phantom thieves! It's driving me crazy!"
Kaito chuckled, caught off guard by her outburst. "Looks like your father won't be catching a break tonight!"
Aoko snatched his tablet, her frustration was evident in her actions. "This is the sixth time this month. Dad hasn't slept properly in a week!"
Trying to diffuse the tension, Kaito suggested, "Maybe you should tell that dumb gumshoe to take a break and go home…"
A burst of anger surged through Aoko as she slapped him with the tablet. "Who do you think you're calling a dumb gumshoe!? It's not fair. Even on my birthday, Dad's only focused on KID."
Surprised by her reaction, Kaito stumbled back. "Wait, it's your birthday? You can't be turning 17 already, can you?"
A hint of softness crept into Aoko's expression. "Why wouldn't I be? We're second years, after all."
Trying to lighten the mood, Kaito teased, "But your figure…" He jokingly placed a hand on her chest, earning curious glances from nearby students. "Your hips… your butt… Aoko, you're not secretly a boy, are you?"
Blushing furiously, Aoko smacked him again. "You're impossible…"
As Kaito recovered from the hit, Aoko declared, "Fine, have it your way. You weren't invited to my birthday party anyway!"
"Oh, you're having a party?" Kaito asked, standing up.
Without waiting for a response, he continued, "Say no more. I've got a little job tonight—I mean an errand to run, so I might be a little late, but you can count me in!"
"If you're busy, just forget it," Aoko replied, her frustration still evident.
"Don't you worry," Kaito assured her. With a flourish, he pulled out a blue candle from his uniform.
"I'll put a smile on your face tonight with the magic show of a lifetime!" he promised, lighting the candle.
As the students watched, Kaito counted down, and Aoko blew out the candle, smiling.
Taking the opportunity, Kaito transformed the candle into a blue flower and offered it to her, sealing their promise.
Meanwhile, at the entryway of Ekoda High School, Aoko and Kaito discussed Kaitou KID's motives.
"He goes through so much trouble to steal things, only to abandon them or return them in secret," Aoko remarked as she opened her getabako, the shoe locker.
Kaito, taking his shoes out, listened thoughtfully. "I can't speak to whether or not he's the world's greatest thief, but it seems like he's just doing it for the kicks!"
Aoko expressed her frustration, saying, "He just sits back and laughs while my dad's trying his hardest. It's unforgivable!"
Their conversation was interrupted by Keiko, who came rushing over with a newspaper in hand. "Did you see this, Aoko? Shinichi Kudo solved another big case!"
Aoko glanced at the headline, then at Kaito with a knowing smile. "Another case solved by the great detective Shinichi Kudo, huh? You must be thrilled."
Kaito looked a bit flustered but tried to play it cool. "Well, he's just doing his job."
Aoko teased, "You're such a coucon, Kaito. Always bragging about your cousin."
Kaito laughed it off, his thoughts briefly drifting to Shinichi. "Can't help it if he's amazing."
Walking back home along the river, Kaito's thoughts were consumed with Aoko's words and the weight of his own secrets. A student on a bicycle passed by, and he murmured to himself, "You've got it all wrong, Aoko. I'm not trying to insult your father, and I'm not stealing just for the kicks."
As he reached his house, his determination solidified. "I just have to find out! I have to learn the truth of what happened eight years ago with the guys who killed Oyaji." He glanced up at the portrait of his father, Kuroba Touichi, a world-renowned magician, and whispered, "He was a world-renowned magician. And…"
Entering his room, Kaito moved through the secret entrance hidden behind the portrait. The lights flickered on in the Hidden Room, revealing the tools and memorabilia of Kaitou KID. "Kaitou KID," he continued, "I have to find out who killed him no matter what."
The jukebox in the room activated, and the key with the blue clover clicked into place, bringing out a vinyl record. The mechanisms whirred as the record began to play, filling the room with his father's voice. "Listen well, Kaito. This is important."
"What've you got for me today, Oyaji?" Kaito asked, though he knew it was just a recording.
"You must never spoil your tricks ahead of time," Touichi's voice instructed, leaving Kaito momentarily puzzled. "This is one of the three principles set out by the famous Thurston," his father continued.
"Don't explain what's going to happen?" Kaito echoed. "That's obvious!"
The vinyl record returned to its place, and the wardrobe lifted from the floor, revealing the Kaitou KID suit inside. Kaito smirked and stood up, changing into his suit. "Well, then," he said with a determined grin. "Guess it's time for another round!"
Adjusting his top hat in front of the rearview mirror, he said, "Aoko, please understand. If I assume the role of Kaitou KID, then the guys who killed my father will reveal themselves." He slid his hand over the hat, the monocle shining as he looked towards the imaginary audience. "So until that happens, Kaitou KID…"
Later that night, Kaitou KID was seen running on the rooftop of an unknown building. He jumped over the railing, his silhouette framed against the city lights. "… can never stop stealing!" Kaitou declared, his resolve unshaken.
After leaving the airport, Namira hailed a taxi, the lights of the city passing by in a blur as they made their way through the busy streets. The radio crackled with news about the police preparations for the upcoming heist.
The Taxi Driver glanced at Namira through the rearview mirror. "Big night in the city," he remarked. "Planning on catching the action, miss?"
Namira gave a small smile. "Actually, I'm heading to the museum. I'm a bit of a fan of art and history."
The driver nodded knowingly. "Ah, I see. So, you're hoping to catch a glimpse of the Blue Birthday before it's gone, huh?"
Namira's eyes widened in surprise. "You know about the Blue Birthday?"
The driver chuckled. "Who doesn't? And with all this talk about Kaitou Kid, it's no wonder folks are flocking to the museum tonight."
Their conversation was interrupted as the taxi came to a sudden stop. A line of police cars blocked the road ahead, their flashing lights painting the scene in hues of blue and red.
"Looks like we've hit a snag," the driver said apologetically.
Namira sighed, frustration bubbling up inside her. "It's okay, I'll walk from here." She paid the fare and stepped out of the cab, deciding to take matters into her own hands. The cool night air hit her face as she stood on the sidewalk. Determination sparked in her eyes as she looked toward the museum in the distance. "I'll make it there on my own," she thought, setting off down the street with purpose.
As she made her way through the narrow alleys, her footsteps quick and silent, she glanced up at the night sky. The full moon hung luminous and bright, casting its ethereal glow over the city.
Stopping for a brief moment, Namira took in the sight, feeling a sense of calm wash over her. Then, with a determined exhale, she continued her journey, her eyes now focused on the rooftops.
Turning a corner, she spotted another police barricade ahead. She knew she couldn't waste any more time. Quickly, she slipped into a nearby alley, the shadows enveloping her as she took out her grappling hook and swiftly assembled it, aiming it at the nearest rooftop.
With practised ease, she fired the hook to the rooftop and began her ascent. The buildings in this part of town were old and close together, perfect for her to navigate the rooftops.
As she reached the top, she paused to catch her breath, her eyes drawn once again to the full moon overhead. At that moment, she remembered the mask her brother had given her. With a sense of purpose, she retrieved it from her pocket and donned it, the cool material covering her eyes as she prepared to face whatever awaited her at the museum.
With the mask in place, she felt a surge of determination coursing through her veins as she listened intently to the unfolding conversation between Nakamori and the museum curator. Nakamori's confident tone echoed in her thoughts as he boasted about the security measures.
Nakamori: "You can count on me, Curator! I, Nakamori Ginzou, will protect the Blue Birthday, even if it costs my life!" Curator: "But still, that hardly looks secure enough."
"His intentions are clear," Namira muttered to herself as Nakamori's boastful words echoed in her ears. "He's trying to lure KID because he knows he will be able to get the Jewel. Why else would he tell his security so loudly? It's all part of his plan." She narrowed her eyes in thought, a sense of anticipation rising within her as she pieced together Nakamori's plan. "Let's see how this pans out," she murmured, determination flickering in her eyes.
Continuing her rooftop journey, Namira kept her gaze fixed on the museum ahead. The closer she got, the clearer she could make out the details of the police preparations below. Pausing for a moment, she crouched down behind a chimney to avoid being seen.
KID: "I see. Lasers, a special alloy, and electric currents! Looks like you really went all-out today, Inspector Nakamori."
Namira's ears perked up as she listened to KID's commentary on the security setup. "KID is already there. I need to hurry." Her gaze intensified, focusing on the rooftops."So much of that budget probably went to those lasers. The poor taxpayers..."
With a determined exhale, Namira leapt into action, her athletic form gliding effortlessly across the rooftops of the city skyline. The night air rushed past her, carrying with it a sense of urgency and purpose. Each stride was a calculated move, each jump a testament to her years of training and experience.
She raced across the rooftops of the buildings in the direction of the museum, her movements fluid and precise as she navigated the urban jungle with practised ease. The city lights blurred into streaks of colour as she darted between buildings and over obstacles, her heart pounding with anticipation. Each leap and bound propelled her closer to her destination, her body moving with the agility of a seasoned parkour expert.
As she neared the museum, her focus sharpened, her senses heightened. The adrenaline surged through her veins, fueling her determination to reach KID before it was too late.
KID: "I'll be taking this Blue Birthday. Until next time, Inspector Nakamori." Nakamori: "W-Wait! KID!"
The sound of footsteps echoed through the night, and Namira's sharp ears picked up their direction. "He's heading to the roof. I don't have much time until he reaches the museum. Inspector Nakamori's plan seems to be working perfectly. Ah, he just opened the roof door. He probably wants to use his hang glider," she muttered to herself, her voice barely audible over the city's din.
KID: "Look at the time! If I don't hurry, I'll completely miss Aoko's birthday party!"
"Really? Are you always that careless? It's a wonder nobody has caught you yet," Namira thought, a hint of exasperation in her internal voice.
Suddenly, a sharp noise crackled through her earbud—a gunshot. Her breath caught in her throat as she processed the sound, her heart pounding in her chest.
The subsequent clang of metal breaking apart and the thud of something hitting the ground sent shivers down her spine. The tiny microphone she had placed was picking up every detail, amplifying the tension in the air.
Namira's mind raced, her thoughts swirling with concern. "A gunshot? Who would dare to shoot at KID?" Doubt gnawed at her as she tried to piece together what was happening.
Her fingers tightened their grip on the edge of the rooftop, her knuckles turning white against the dark backdrop of the city skyline. She knew she had to move quickly. Whatever was happening on the roof, it was escalating quickly.
That man: "I warned you to keep away from precious gems." KID: "That voice… The man on the phone yesterday?" That man: It's been a while, Kaitou Kid." That man: "Or…" That man: "Should I call you Kuroba Touichi?"
Namira's eyes widened as she heard the mention of Kuroba Touichi's name. She couldn't believe what she was hearing. How did that man know about the identity of the original KID? Could it be possible that he's the one who...
That man: "I thought the fool who came between us and the jewels we seek had met his end eight years ago, but to think he was still alive…"
Namira's breath caught in her throat as the revelation echoed through her mind. The pieces were starting to come together, and she realised the gravity of the situation. This man was really the one who killed the original Kaitou KID. But I recognise this voice...
That man: "Now, hand over the jewel." KID: "Just tell me one thing. Why are you after these jewels?" That man: "It would seem that those jewels are the keys." KID: "To what?!" That man: "To eternity."
Namira's heart sank at the cryptic words uttered by the man. "To eternity?" What did that mean? He doesn't mean that...She couldn't shake off the ominous feeling creeping up on her. As she listened intently, her mind raced with questions and possibilities, urging her to run faster, her pulse pounding in her ears.
"Let me give you a present…"
"You own eternity in Hell."
As the bullet tore through the air, Kaito's senses sharpened, a primal instinct warning him of the impending danger. Adrenaline surged through his veins as he braced himself. Before he could react, the sharp impact of the bullet struck his chest, sending a shockwave rippling through his body.
Instinctively, his hand shot to his chest, where the bullet had hit, feeling the dull ache pulsating beneath his fingertips.
With a gasp, Kaito stumbled backwards, his vision blurring as the world seemed to spin around him. His heart pounded against his ribs, each beat a stark reminder of his vulnerability. It felt as if the ground beneath him had turned to quicksand, threatening to swallow him whole.
As he began to fall, time seemed to slow down, his surroundings becoming a blur. A sense of helplessness washed over him, his hat slipping from his head, a silent witness to his descent into darkness.
Meanwhile, that man's laughter echoed cruelly from the rooftop's edge, a chilling accompaniment to Kaito's desperate struggle against the forces conspiring to bring him down.
As he fell, Kaito felt a sudden tug around his waist, jolting him from his panic. A grappling hook had secured around him, pulling him away from the impending fall. Amidst the chaos, confusion and curiosity flooded his mind. Who had intervened to save him from certain doom?
As he reached the rooftop and steadied himself, he turned to face his rescuer. Standing before him was a woman with an air of determined confidence. Her hair was pulled back into a high ponytail, giving her an athletic and no-nonsense appearance. But what caught his attention the most was the mask she wore. It was a black domino mask, reminiscent of those worn by Gotham vigilantes. The mask covered her eyes completely, hiding her expression from view. The mask's edges were smooth, blending seamlessly with her skin, and the material had a matte finish that prevented any glare under the moonlight.
Namira's grip tightened on the receiver as she heard the gunshot, followed by silence. Panic surged through her as she realised KID was probably shot. Her heart pounded in her chest as she finally reached the scene just in time at the backside of the museum.
With lightning reflexes, she acted on instinct, firing her grappling hook towards the falling figure. The line caught him just in time, halting his descent, and she pulled him towards her position on the rooftop.
"Mon Dieu! Where are you hurt?" Namira exclaimed, her voice laced with concern. "Bite me!" She instinctively held her arm out protectively.
KID's poker face wavered at Namira's abrupt outburst, a hint of surprise flickering in his eyes. "What?" he stammered, momentarily taken aback by Namira's unexpected offer. He gently pushed her arm aside. "What just happened?"
"You were about to become street pizza," Namira replied, her voice edged with urgency. "Lucky for you, I was nearby." She quickly scanned him for injuries, relieved to find none.
Namira swiftly located the elusive Blue Birthday, a glint of determination in her eyes. "So, you do have the real Blue Birthday," she murmured, deactivating the bug in her ear. "I started to hear myself double."
The relief was palpable in Kaito's expression as he glanced at Namira. "Thanks for the save," he said, gratitude colouring his voice. "And yeah, this is the real deal." He indicated the Blue Birthday jewel in his hand, a flicker of admiration crossing his features as he looked at it. "Looks like that man wanted it badly."
Namira's eyes narrowed as she examined the jewel. "Seems like it. But why? What's so special about it? Wait, but if you have the real Jewel?" she mused aloud, her mind racing with possibilities. "Then which one did the Syndicate get? A fake one? Can you follow it?"
Kaitou KID regarded Namira with a mixture of curiosity and scepticism. "And who are you, Miss?" he inquired, his tone guarded yet intrigued.
Namira glanced around, her senses on high alert, and ignored his question. "Right now, we need to get out of here before the police swarm the place," she said, gesturing at the obnoxious beeping of the jewel. "And with that shiny light on the jewel, Inspector Nakamori will be here in no time."
Realising the danger, KID nodded. "Agreed. Lead the way."
Namira wasted no time. "Let's go!" As they hurried along the rooftop, Namira's expression grew serious. "You know, Kaitou KID-san, I'm not as clueless as you might think."
KID glanced at her, intrigued. "Oh? What makes you say that?"
Namira's gaze bore into him, unwavering. "I know your real identity unlike that man with a bad taste in clothes, Kuroba Kaito-san."
Kaito's jaw dropped, shock written all over his face. "How... How could you possibly know that?"
"Let's just say I have my sources," Namira replied cryptically, her tone softening. "And I'm not here to arrest you - yet."
Kaito relaxed slightly, but wariness lingered in his eyes. "If you're not here to arrest me, then why...?"
"Because I need your help," Namira admitted, her voice earnest. "And I think you need mine."
Kaito raised an eyebrow. "Oh? And what kind of help could I possibly offer? I'm a criminal if you forgot about it just now."
"You're coming with me, Kuroba-san," she declared, her voice firm and resolute. "Because if you don't, then I'll just arrest you, and you'll end up coming with me anyway. As one child of a phantom thief to another, I recommend you follow me. There's something we need to talk about later."
As they made their escape from the rooftop, Namira's eyes scanned the darkened alleyways below. Her gaze settled on a sleek motorcycle tucked away in a nearby side street, just where her contact had promised it would be.
"There," she said, nodding towards the motorcycle. "That's our ride."
Kaito followed her gaze, his eyes lighting up at the sight of the vehicle. A Honda CB750 Four? "Nice choice," he commented, impressed. "Lead the way."
Together, they hurried down to the street level, where the mysterious woman quickly unlocked the motorcycle and started the engine. Kaito changed into his reckon outfit and his black cap and settled in behind her, holding onto her waist as they sped off into the night.
"Follow the signal," Kaito instructed, leaning in close to her ear. After he put the GPS on her windshield he added, "It'll guide you."
The woman nodded, her focus on the road ahead as she manoeuvred through the city streets with practised ease. The hum of the engine beneath them was the only sound as they raced towards their destination.
The motorcycle roared beneath them, carrying them swiftly through the city. Kaito couldn't help but feel a surge of excitement as they weaved through traffic, the wind whipping past them.
As they rode, Kaito's mind wandered to the meeting with the driver, who still hadn't introduced herself but commandeered the whole scene. She must have connections to the police if she can threaten me with arrest. I need to know more. Especially what did she mean by 'a child of a gentleman thief to another'?
Before Kaito could focus on more questions, with the wind rushing past them, something small and unexpected shot out of his temporary partner's jacket pocket. Kaito's eyes widened as he caught sight of the creature.
It was unlike anything he had ever seen before. "POKER FACE, KAITO. Nothing surprises a magician. A magician surprises his audience." The tiny creature, no larger than his hand, had the form of a miniature horse, but with an otherworldly elegance. Its fur gleamed silvery and metallic in the moonlight, shimmering with an unearthly glow.
The creature's head was brown, with a white underbelly, and expressive light green eyes, deep and dark like the night sky, filled with an eerie intelligence. A mane of silky, iridescent strands flowed from its head, moving gracefully as if underwater. Its tail matched the mane, long and flowing with a mystical grace.
Hovering in the air, the tiny creature moved with a serene, almost regal calmness, despite its size. Its delicate hooves shimmered softly, leaving trails of sparkling dust in its wake.
Kaito couldn't help but stare, his mind struggling to comprehend what he was seeing. He felt a sense of wonder and awe wash over him, mingled with a hint of disbelief.
"Greetings, Kuroba-san," said the tiny horse, its voice melodic and refined, completely incongruous with the chaos of the moment. "I am Kaalki, the Kwami of Teleportation."
Kaito blinked again, his grip tightening on the handlebars. A talking, hovering horse? In the middle of their escape? His life as Kaitou KID had certainly led to some strange encounters, but this... this was beyond his usual experiences.
"KAALKI! Couldn't you have waited until we reached HQ before surprising our newest guest?" the woman exclaimed, her voice a mix of amusement and exasperation.
Kaalki bobbed in the air, its eyes twinkling with mischief. "My apologies," it said, its voice still melodic but now tinged with contrition. "But I couldn't resist the opportunity to meet such a renowned figure."
Kaito shot the woman a puzzled look, his mind still trying to process the sight before him. "Renowned figure?" he echoed, raising an eyebrow.
The woman grinned, casting a sideways glance at Kaito. "Seems like Kaalki here is impressed to be working with someone famous," she explained, her tone teasing.
Kaito couldn't help but chuckle at the absurdity of the situation. "Well, I'm flattered, Kaalki-san," he said, finally finding his voice. "But let's focus on the task at hand, shall we?"
As they neared their destination, the cityscape around them began to change. The skyscrapers gave way to older buildings with a mix of architectural styles, hinting at the history of the area. The streets were narrower and less crowded, shrouded in shadows that gave the place an eerie feel.
Kaito's mind was still racing with thoughts about Kaalki and the mysterious woman driving the motorcycle. Her calm demeanour and swift actions suggested she was well-prepared for this kind of situation. But who was she really? And how did she know so much about him?
"We're getting close," Kaito remarked, checking the GPS one last time."The signal seems to come from the backyard of that traditional house up ahead."
The woman nodded and slowed the motorcycle, pulling into a hidden alleyway. She killed the engine, and they both dismounted. Kaito took a moment to stretch, his muscles tense from the ride. The narrow alleyway was dimly lit, shadows playing off the brick walls and adding to the clandestine atmosphere.
"Alright," she said, finally turning to face him directly. Her voice was sharp and focused. "Here's the plan. We sneak in, assess the situation, and retrieve more information about this Syndicate before that man can get away with it. And, of course, bring Inspector Nakamori here."
Kaito smirked. "Sounds like a typical Tuesday for me."
She chuckled and extended her hand. "I'm sure it does. By the way, call me Namira."
Instead of shaking it, Kaito took her hand and, with a gentlemanly flourish, kissed it lightly. As he straightened, he produced a raspberry rose from seemingly nowhere and presented it to her with a charming smile.
"Nice to meet you, Namira-san. And thanks for the save back there, again," he said, his eyes twinkling with mischief.
"Blinking in surprise, Namira then smiled, clearly amused by his antics. "Don't mention it," she replied, determination glinting behind her mask. Kaalki, perched on Namira's shoulder, chirped softly in agreement. "Now, let's get to work. The police should be here soon. Are you going to change?"
Kaito changed into his Kaitou Kid regalia in a puff of smoke, which quickly dissipated. His white suit gleamed in the dim light, contrasting sharply with the dark surroundings. "Of course, I will have to give them a show until you can get information from that base."
Raising an eyebrow, Namira looked impressed. "Efficient. I like that. Now, let's move quickly and stay low. We don't want to attract any unwanted attention yet."
Adjusting his tophat, Kaito scanned the surroundings. The alleyway seemed to stretch endlessly, each turn shrouded in darkness. "Lead the way, Namira-san."
With a final nod, Namira turned and led them through the narrow alleyways, her movements swift and precise. The sound of distant sirens added urgency to their steps. "I'm going to listen in. My bug is on the Jewel. Take it off before the Police arrive at the scene."
"Don't worry. I got it." Kaito followed closely, his mind racing with questions but also a sense of excitement. This mysterious woman, the operation, the dangerous man in black, the Syndicate, and the strange little creature named Kaalki —all add up to be an intriguing night.
As they moved through the maze of alleyways, the air grew cooler, and the sounds of the city became muffled. The anticipation built with each step, the thrill of the chase electrifying the atmosphere. Kaito couldn't shake the feeling that this night was just the beginning of something much bigger.
Namira and Kaito split up, each taking a different route to cover more ground. Kaito headed towards the back of the house, following the signal's origin, while Namira paused briefly to watch him disappear into the shadows. She shook her head, a small smile playing on her lips at his dramatic flair, before turning her attention to the house.
Circling around the opposite side, Namira moved with practised stealth. Several cars were parked nearby, none of which seemed particularly out of place. Despite their ordinary appearance, she took photographs of the license plates, intending to look them up later and check their owners. It was a precaution, but in her line of work, every detail mattered.
Kaalki, perched on Namira's shoulder, scanned the surroundings with her small, bright eyes. Her keen senses detected movement and sound beyond what Namira could perceive, making her an invaluable scout.
As Namira approached the house, Kaalki darted ahead, disappearing momentarily through walls. Her small figure flickered in and out of sight as she scouted for any signs of movement. Namira watched Kaalki's brief disappearances with a knowing smile, appreciating her kwami's unique abilities.
As she observed the house, Namira's keen eyes spotted an open window on the first floor. She saw Kaalki's subtle nod of approval, signalling it was clear to proceed. Fortune smiled upon her as she noticed a tree conveniently positioned right next to the window, offering a perfect entry point covered by foliage.
With the agility born of years of training, Namira scaled the tree swiftly and silently. The branches swayed slightly under her weight, but she moved with confidence, each motion fluid and controlled. Reaching the window, she paused for a moment to listen for any sounds from inside. Satisfied that the coast was clear, she slipped inside.
The room she entered was dimly lit and sparsely furnished, suggesting it was either seldom used or purposefully kept empty. Namira's eyes quickly adjusted to the subdued light, her senses keenly attuned to her surroundings. Moving silently across the room, her footsteps barely made a sound on the tatami mat-covered floor.
Kaalki's presence remained elusive yet reassuring as Namira swept through the room. Occasionally, she caught glimpses of the kwami peeking out from behind scrolls or perched atop cabinets, her movements swift and silent.
From her vantage point, she could survey down the hallway and into the adjoining rooms. Everything appeared undisturbed, but she knew better than to take things at face value. The sliding shoji doors were delicately crafted from rice paper, allowing muted light to filter through. Polished wooden beams lined the ceiling, their lustre barely visible in the dimness.
The hallway walls were adorned with minimalist art pieces and the occasional ikebana flower arrangement, their simple beauty adding to the serene atmosphere. Namira's mind raced with possibilities and potential threats. She had to be cautious yet efficient. Kaalki remained on alert, perched on a nearby shelf, her ears twitching at the faintest sound.
While making her way through the house, Namira's thoughts briefly flickered to Kaito. She hoped he was being equally cautious and hadn't run into any trouble. Something was interesting about him—a blend of mystery and charm that she couldn't quite shake. But now wasn't the time for distractions.
She continued her silent approach, every muscle in her body coiled and ready for action. The house seemed to be holding its breath, the silence almost palpable. Namira knew that whatever lay ahead, she had to be prepared for anything.
"Little foal, behind you," Kaalki whispered urgently in her ear. Startled, Namira pivoted swiftly, her hand instinctively reaching for her concealed weapon, only to relax as she realised it was just Kaalki alerting her to potential danger. Her kwami hovered nearby, her small form blending into the shadows, eyes sharp and ears perked.
Suddenly, footsteps approached from behind, prompting Namira to duck into a nearby broom closet she spotted swiftly.
"Did you hear? Snake is back with the loot."
"Yeah, hopefully, it's something Number 2 will want this time."
"Let's go inside; there are already enough people in the entrance area in case anything happens."
The voices faded as the men moved away, and Namira cautiously emerged from her hiding spot, trailing them discreetly. So there are people at the entrance.
They descended a staircase. Namira stopped at the top, deciding not to go down to the lower level. Instead, she chose to search the current floor for any documents or clues. Kaalki flitted ahead, darting through the cabinets and shelves as Namira followed closely behind. The kwami's small form manoeuvred effortlessly through closed doors and solid surfaces, inspecting for any hidden compartments or valuable intel. However, it seemed either recently cleared out or was simply a safe house for the Syndicate, with no useful information in sight.
Her earpiece crackled to life. Kaito's voice came through, slightly muffled but clear enough to understand. "K. to N., I'm in position. I see the man I encountered earlier on the museum roof greeting another, slightly heavier man."
Entering a room with a balcony providing a clear view of the backyard, Namira noted the traditional Japanese furnishings—tatami mats, shoji screens, and a low wooden table—a deceptive tranquillity concealing potential danger. Decorative scrolls hung on the walls, and a bonsai tree sat on a small stand in the corner, adding to the serene yet deceptive appearance of the place. "I wonder who the owner is", thought Namira.
From her vantage point, she could see the men in the backyard. Kaito's message played over in her mind as she began photographing the faces of every member she could see, meticulously documenting their identities. The man who greeted the newcomer had an air of authority about him, his posture rigid and commanding. She made a mental note to prioritise identifying him later. "Maybe this is Number 2?"
Without the ability to respond to Kaito, she had to trust that he would stay sharp and continue to provide valuable intel. As she observed the men below, she noticed how their body language suggested a mixture of tension and anticipation. "Wow, he didn't just have bad taste in clothes but also in facial hair, who has a horseshoe moustache nowadays? Wait a minute, but... that's the man who..."
She whispered to herself, "Keep an eye on that newcomer, Kaito. Let's uncover his identity and the significance of his presence." Namira continued to watch, ready to act at a moment's notice, every sense on high alert; Kaalki was watching her back.
Kaito perched silently on the sturdy branches of the tree, hidden from view yet able to observe everything in the backyard below. His ears strained to catch every word as the conversation unfolded between the two men.
"Ah, so this is the Blue Birthday! Good work, Snake. I'd better notify our leader," the man remarked, his voice carrying a tone of authority. "So the man that shot at me is Snake?", thought Kaito.
"But why is he so interested in gemstones? I'd expect money and jewels to be no object," Snake questioned, his confusion evident in his voice.
"The Blue Birthday is one of the legendary Big Jewels scattered around the world and may possess a wondrous power," the man explained, his voice taking on a storyteller's cadence.
"A wondrous power?" Snake echoed, clearly intrigued.
"If it happens to be the one that our leader seeks, that is. There is a legend that's been passed down since ancient times," the man continued his words carrying an air of mysticism.
Kaito adjusted his position slightly, careful not to make a sound. He leaned in and saw a brief reflection of the moon on the balcony above the men. A camera lens glinted, indicating that Namira was in position.
" 'Hold the stone of life unto the full moon, and it shall bear you its tears,' " the man recited, his voice low and almost reverent.
"A… A jewel that cries?" Snake's disbelief was palpable.
"Yes. And they who drink its tears will be the first to ever realise humanity's greatest dream: Eternal youth," the man proclaimed, his words laden with significance.
"E-Eternal youth?!" Snake gasped, clearly taken aback by the revelation.
"But only one of the Big Jewels holds that power, and I regret to admit that we don't know which one it is. That's why we have to obtain each of them, one by one," the man revealed, his tone betraying a sense of urgency.
"But how will you know which jewel has this wondrous power?" Snake inquired, his curiosity piqued.
"It's simple," the man declared confidently.
Kaito held his breath, his eyes narrowing as he focused on the scene below.
"You just need to hold it up to the moon," the man instructed, demonstrating with the Blue Birthday in his hand.
"If it's the right stone, then the second jewel sleeping within it will shine red in the moonlight," he explained, his voice carrying the weight of finality.
Kaito watched as the man held up the Blue Birthday, his mind racing with the implications of what he was witnessing. "Are these people for real?" he thought, exchanging a glance with Namira, who looked equally incredulous.
"The stone of life: Pandora!" the man concluded, his words echoing in the quiet night air as he held the jewel up in front of the moon.
The 'Blue Birthday', which he had swapped with a fake bearing his signature mocking message "You Lose", was now in the hands of the chubby man he presumed to be a significant figure in this operation. The man's face twisted in a mixture of shock and anger as Snake approached and read aloud the taunting inscription.
"You lose?!" Snake exclaimed, his voice incredulous.
From his vantage point, Kaito stifled a small chuckle, thoroughly enjoying the reactions he had anticipated.
With the real Blue Birthday in his hands, Kaito observed its facets gleam under the moonlight. "I see. So you hold it to the moon?" The chubby man, clearly thrown off guard by the unexpected turn of events, muttered in disbelief.
"K-Kaitou Kid?!" he stammered.
Snake, equally astonished, managed to blurt out, "H-How did you survive?!"
Kaito couldn't help but smirk at their bewildered expressions. It was moments like these that made his daring escapades all the more exhilarating.
Namira and Kaalki stifled a laugh as they observed the unfolding drama.
"I was worried for a moment there too," Kaito remarked casually.
"But that bullet should've gone straight through your heart!" Snake protested incredulously.
A chuckle escaped Kaito's lips. "You're right, your aim wasn't off. It hit this Blue Birthday in my chest pocket."
The man, now known to Namira as "Number 2" in her mind, visibly irritated, interjected, "Then what is this?"
"A fake," Kaito declared smoothly, his smirk visible even from her distance. "Fixing up a replica just in case you need it is a basic rule for a thief." He winked mischievously at the furious man, his confidence unwavering.
"Damn you!" Number 2 exclaimed, his anger palpable. He hurled the fake jewel to the floor, shattering it in a fit of rage. "Shoot him!" he ordered his accomplices.
Namira's heart skipped a beat as the men quickly surrounded Kaito, guns drawn. The situation had escalated in an instant. Shots rang out, and she saw Kaito drop to his knees, a hand on his hat. To the untrained eye, it looked like surrender, but Namira knew better. She held her breath, trusting in his next move.
"If you want it so bad…" Kaito's voice was calm, almost taunting, as he suddenly sprang into the air with a grace that defied the chaotic scene around him. "…Then take it!" he finished, soaring upward and out of immediate danger.
Namira felt a surge of relief mixed with admiration. His skill and charisma in the face of danger were impressive, to say the least. She stayed in her position, eyes scanning the scene for any further threats, her own heart racing from the tension of the moment. She knew she had to act quickly to support him, but couldn't help but appreciate the showmanship that was quintessentially Kaitou Kid.
Kaito threw the Blue Birthday, the jewel landing with precision, striking Number 2 squarely in the face. The impact sent him crashing to the ground, stunned and defeated.
As Kaito landed effortlessly on the compound wall, Namira's attention, however, was drawn to the sound of approaching police cars outside the compound.
She had seen the faint glimmer of their lights in the hallway moments ago. Nakamori's blockade was in place, tightening their net around this location.
"Boss! The cops have set up a blockade at the entrance!" an unknown voice cried out from inside the house.
Namira exchanged a quick glance with Kaito, who seemed unfazed by the escalating situation. The "boss" stammered about a transmitter, but Namira knew their time was running short.
"Kaitou Kid! We've got your hideout surrounded! Be good and come out!" Inspektor Nakamori's voice echoed through the compound, firm and commanding.
Namira steadied herself, ready to assist Kaito if needed. The stakes were rising, and their escape route was narrowing. She silently urged Kaito to make his next move wisely, knowing their next actions could decide their fate.
She should have guessed his next move, but even then, she was surprised by his next declaration.
"To hell with eternal youth. Don't make me laugh!" Kaito's voice rang out, filled with defiance. "Tell this to the guy who pulls your strings. Kaitou Kid's gonna find this jewel with Pandora before you..."
Namira watched as Kaito brought a hand in front of him, forming a tight fist, his determination and fury clear.
"...and smash it into bits and pieces!"
With that declaration, Kaito took his cape, covering himself with it. In the next instant, he used a smoke bomb to disappear from the scene, leaving Number 2 and his men in disarray.
"That damn Kid… Abandon this hideout! Use the secret tunnels to escape!" Number 2 barked, his voice tinged with frustration and panic.
Namira remained in her position, her eyes darting around to assess the unfolding chaos. She knew this was their moment to act. She quickly calculated her next move, ready to capitalize on the confusion and ensure the mission's success: to get more information about these people.
"He practically declared war against the Syndicate. Good thing I found him before he makes himself a bigger target without backup," she thought, a mix of exasperation and pride flickering across her mind.
Suddenly, her comms flared up: "I will catch up to you later, Namira-san. I need to finish something." Kaito's voice crackled through before the device went silent. "Of course, you'd know how to disable this," Namira mused, shaking her head. "Don't worry, I'll catch up with you. First, let's tag these men."
She sighed, a faint smile playing on her lips. Kaito's unpredictability will probably be both an asset and a constant source of exasperation. Namira moved swiftly, her mind already formulating the next steps in their intricate dance against the Syndicate.
Kaito sprinted through the streets of Ekoda, his heart pounding in his chest. "Crap, it's almost midnight! Aoko's birthday's almost over!" he muttered, the urgency clear in his voice. As he ran, a white car appeared at the beginning of the street, stopping him in his tracks. The window lowered, revealing Jii's anxious face.
"Bocchama, we must hurry!" Jii-Chan urged.
Kaito shook his head, a look of despair crossing his face. "It's too late. I won't make it."
Just then, Kaito glanced up, his eyes catching sight of something that sparked a sudden idea. A mischievous smile spread across his face. "I just had a great idea!"
Meanwhile, at Aoko's house, she clutched her phone tightly. "Hello?" she answered, her voice tinged with hope and disappointment after seeing Kaito's name on the display.
"Aoko, I'm really sorry! I don't think I can make it back before midnight!" Kaito's voice crackled through the line.
Aoko's eyes welled up with tears. "Why… Why didn't you come?! Aoko has been waiting for you all the time! And yet… And yet… You're the worst man!"
Kaito winced, pulling the phone away from his ear slightly as her words pierced his heart. "Y-You don't have to be so upset…"
"Of course I'm upset! You said you'd make me smile with the magic show of a lifetime! Kaito, you're a big fat liar!" she cried, her voice breaking.
"I haven't lied," Kaito said softly, trying to calm her.
"Huh?" Aoko sniffled, confusion mixing with her frustration.
"Hey, Aoko. Just look out the window," Kaito instructed, his tone suddenly lightening.
"Look out my window? What are you up to, Kaito?" she asked, scepticism colouring her voice.
"You wanna know? Well, I thought I'd surprise you, so I…" Kaito trailed off, remembering his father's wise words. 'You must never spoil your tricks ahead of time,' his father had once said.
"Guess I won't say it," Kaito decided, leaving Aoko hanging.
"Eh?" Aoko replied, clearly baffled.
"You must never spoil your tricks ahead of time. It's one of the principles of the famous Thousam— no, Thu Thu Thu, something?" Kaito rambled, trying to mask his slip-up.
"What're you going on about, Kaito?" Aoko asked, now more curious than ever.
"Never mind," Kaito said, shaking his head. "Ah, crap! Better hurry, Aoko! Three… Two… One!"
As the countdown ended, two focused lights illuminated a building. The side of the complex that Aoko could see 'fell' like a sheet, revealing it to be a screen displaying a colourful decoration with animated letters spelling 'HAPPY BIRTHDAY'. Red balloons covered the screen, exploding in white smoke with pink, yellow, green, purple, and blue confetti. As the confetti fell, the screen turned black, and the letters for AOKO, purple and shining with some relief, appeared consecutively in order vertically. Sparkles surrounded the letters, creating a dazzling effect.
Aoko's eyes widened in surprise. "Kaito…"
"Wow." Namira, having caught up to the scene, watched from her motorcycle after tagging the men in black and following the signal back to Kaito. She marvelled at the intricate display and the sheer effort Kaito had put into making his friends's birthday special. The vibrant fireworks lit up the sky, casting a magical glow over everything. She couldn't help but smile at the sight, despite the earlier chaos.
"Heheheh… Don't go thinking it's over!" Kaito's voice was filled with playful excitement.
The letters displaying AOKO disappeared in a shower of sparkles, then a tail of light shot up from below to the rooftop, transforming into vivid fireworks that lit up the night sky. Jii-chan could be seen in the background, manipulating everything from a laptop at the side, ensuring the display went off without a hitch.
The spectacle pleased Aoko immensely, making her smile and gasp in delight. "It's beautiful!"
Kaito, leaning casually on the car with the apartment complex's display and the fireworks in the background, watched the scene with satisfaction. "This display is my present to you. Happy Birthday, Aoko."
Aoko's voice was filled with gratitude and joy. "Thank you, Kaito."
Namira approached, her admiration evident. "I must say, that's a really thoughtful gift, Kuroba-san."
Kaito turned to her with a smile. "Call me Kaito, Namira-san. I think we are a little past formality right now."
Nodding, Namira continued, "So, this is your assistant, Konosuke Jii-san?" She nodded towards Jii-chan in the back, who seemed visibly displeased with the situation.
Kaito chuckled. "You really did your homework, huh?"
Namira's smile widened. "Well, I am Lupin Namira, the newest ICPO member, who recently graduated."
Kaito raised an eyebrow, genuinely surprised. "INTERPOL?" Jii-chan also reacted with an audible "Oh no, Kaito-bocchama."
"Yes," Namira confirmed, "and it looks like we'll be working closely from now on."
Sighing, Kaito's playful demeanour was momentarily replaced with a hint of seriousness. "Guess I don't really have a choice, do I?"
As he brought a hand in front of him, forming a tight fist, his determination and fury were clear. Namira's eyes sparkled with resolve. "No, you don't. We need to go to the Headquarters. Change into your civilian outfit, please."
Kaito couldn't help but smile, though it was lightly strained. "Alright then, Namira-san. We're going by your bike?"
Namira nodded with a smirk. "Ah."
Kaito's pulse quickened as he stood in front of the imposing Interpol headquarters. He had seen a lot in his life as Kaitou Kid, but walking into a place filled with the world's top law enforcers was something new entirely. The melodic strains of a pop song wafted from somewhere, catching him off guard. Kaito looked around, confused by the unexpected music, before noticing Namira singing quietly to herself:
Every woman walks to the dance floor.
11:45, we are about to start the party.
Follow my instructions, we gon' do this my way.
Follow me, we go left, right, left, right.
He shook his head, trying to clear the distraction from his mind. Next to him, Namira walked with confident strides, her demeanour cool and collected. They were heading to her office for his "initiation."
As they entered the building, Kaito felt the weight of numerous eyes on him. Interpol agents, all seasoned professionals, glanced at him with curiosity and scepticism. He couldn't blame them; after all, he was an outsider and an unknown one at that. Inside, the Interpol HQ was a hive of activity, agents moving purposefully in every direction.
Namira led the way through the labyrinthine halls of Interpol HQ, her steps purposeful. Kaito followed, trying to ignore the murmurs and side glances from passing agents. The building itself was a blend of modern design and high-tech security, a stark reminder of the formidable institution he was about to become entangled with.
Finally, they arrived at Namira's office, a sanctuary of order amidst the controlled chaos of Interpol Headquarters. The heavy oak door swung open with a soft creak as Namira gestured gracefully for Kaito to enter first. The office itself was a testament to Namira's meticulous nature — immaculately neat and organized, every item in its designated place.
To the left, a large bookshelf stood proudly, lined with leather-bound volumes and strategic manuals. The desk, expansive and polished to a high sheen, dominated the centre of the room. It was strewn with files neatly stacked, a computer humming softly in the background, its screen displaying a flurry of real-time updates and intelligence reports. A single potted plant sat in a corner, a touch of green amidst the monochrome palette of steel and wood.
Namira followed Kaito inside, her steps measured and purposeful. She moved with the ease of someone who had claimed this space as her own, circling the desk to settle into an ergonomic leather chair. With a fluid motion, she removed her mask and placed it gently on the desk, revealing a countenance both commanding and composed. She then motioned for Kaito to take a seat opposite her, where a plush armchair awaited.
"Welcome to my office, Kaito-san," she greeted, her tone carrying a blend of professionalism and warmth. Her eyes, a keen shade of hazel, bore into his with unwavering intensity. "I'm going to make this brief. Do you want to be a personal collaborator? If yes, then this is where we'll be working together from now on."
Kaito blinked in surprise at the unexpected offer, the weight of her proposition settling heavily upon him. His gaze wandered around the room, taking in the serene atmosphere juxtaposed with the high stakes of their alliance. He swallowed hard, uncertainty mingling with the thrill of the challenge ahead.
"I have to admit, this is a bit surreal," Kaito admitted finally, his voice betraying a hint of apprehension.
Namira's chuckle was soft, a gentle ripple in the otherwise still air of the office. "I can imagine," she replied warmly. "But you'll get used to it. We'll help each other when necessary, in any case." Her expression softened a hint of amusement dancing in her eyes. "Of course, if you refuse, I could always arrest you right here and now." She smiled sweetly, the edge of her lips quirking in playful teasing.
Sweat-dropping, Kaito inwardly groaned at the weight of her words. The implications of his decision weighed heavily upon him, the gravity of their partnership sinking in with each passing moment. He took a deep breath, his resolve firming within him despite the unease.
"...I really have no choice now, do I?" Kaito murmured, resignation colouring his tone. He exhaled heavily, a cloud of uncertainty dissipating as he resigned himself to the path ahead. "...Fine. You have a deal, Namira-san."
Accepting the file placed before him on the desk, Kaito opened it with practised ease, his eyes scanning the intricate details of Operation 'Crow Hunters'. His brows furrowed slightly as he absorbed the magnitude of their mission, the complexities and risks laid bare before him.
"Operation 'Crow Hunters,' huh?" Kaito mused aloud, glancing up at Namira with a mixture of curiosity and determination. "You really think we can pull this off?"
Namira met his gaze unwaveringly, her eyes gleaming with unwavering resolve. "I have no doubt," she affirmed with quiet confidence. "With your skills and my resources, we'll bring down the Syndicate, which that 'Snake' belongs to, together."
Kaito nodded slowly, a fusion of resignation and determination settling within him. "Alright, Namira-san," he said, his voice steady. "Let's do this."
Namira's smile widened, a faint but genuine expression of satisfaction playing on her lips. "Welcome to the team, Kaito-kun," she declared warmly. "Welcome to Operation 'Crow Hunters.'"
