Lightest of Nights: A Deck of Minds

by Drumbullbee

One of ambition lurks within the hidden depths of the shadow, catching eye of some of the greatest minds. But what is their intent? And when all hope seems lost when the storm arrives, who of the chosen ones will be able to stay the course of what defines them without straying from who they are? Batman - Detective Conan crossover.

38. A Book Signing, Thief, and a Little Trap

Lightest of Nights: A Deck of Minds

Chapter 38

A Book Signing, Thief, and a Little Trap

His short wavy hair flowed in sync with the hot wind that pressed in defiance of the chosen direction. Each stride brought an increase in the burn felt in his legs. How far had his morning jog taken him? Two miles… three perhaps? Keeping in top shape was essential in Subaru Okiya's mind. Powering down one last block, he halted in stride. Panting, he took a deep breath as he slightly hunched over. Easing upright, Subaru took a sip of water from the bottle in hand.

"That should do it. No doubt more people will soon occupy the streets."

Allowing his breathing to subside and heart-rate to normalize, he casually pressed on the rest of the way. It took all but a minute for his destination to fall into view. He would stop, greeting eye to that of the unexpected.

"Who is that?"

There, standing at the gate leading to the house, was a man he had never seen before. This individual wore a pair of jeans, sports cap, shades, brown jacket, and a hygiene mask over his face. Suspicion was now afloat. One step, two. Before he knew it, the distance between him and the mystery man was extinguished.

"Is there something I can help you with?" Subaru politely inquired.

Choosing not to assemble his hands from where they lay buried in pocket, the masked man faced him. Several seconds passed, not a spoken word from either. Subaru stared into the darkness of the worn shades, unable to gauge a read for the opposition.

"Is he staring me in the eyes…? Or is he merrily studying me?"

"No, unless of course your name is Kudo, Shinichi." The man finally responded. He would then wipe away a single sweat drop upon his forehead. "You know, this is actually quite a warm morning, wouldn't you say?"

He was soft spoken, his pitch… perhaps early to mid-twenties in age?

"Sorry, but I am the only current to reside at this location. It has been that way for months. However, I'm willing to take a message for him," offered Subaru. "Next I hear from Kudo-san, I'll be sure to inform him of your visit. I'll just need a name and-"

"Never mind it." The man turned in the opposite direction. "I'll plant meet with him some other time. Ciao."

Subaru's eyes sharpened on the subject as they faded into the distance. "Who the hell was that?"

….

A new day arrived. His routine, not differing from any other morning. Conan, placing his bag over his shoulders, huffed. "It's all my fault… had I not invited him to help with the investigation Hattori would be-"

The sound of his ringing phone would cut his inner thoughts off. "Hattori?!" Conan felt disappointment when he realized it was not him calling, yet surprised at who was. "Mom…?"

"Shin-chan!"

Conan quickly motioned for the bathroom, closing the door tightly once inside.

"Not exactly the greatest time, was just about to-"

"I know this is short notice, but are you going to be busy this evening?"

Conan blinked, curiosity taking center stage. "What do you ask?"

"Your dad is having a book signing at the Skytale building here in Tokyo tonight! Isn't that great?! I have two additional tickets, so you can bring anyone of your choice along for the event."

Conan rolled his eyes. "That sounds lovely."

Hearing the sarcasm in his voice, Yukiko countered. "What do you mean that sounds lovely?! Aren't you going to come and support your father?"

"It's not that, it's just…"

"Heiji-kun?" Yukiko assumed. "You're worried about him, aren't you? Listen Shinichi, you can't keep blaming yourself for what happened. I'm sure he'll pull through. The doctors are optimistic. If anything, a night out could get your mind off of things."

"It's not just that, there's also the case that I'm-"

"Excuses! You're just full of them this morning, aren't you Shin-chan? Fine, I'll just have to find someone else willing to entertain me through the evening. Have a good day, hmmph!"

"Wait, it's not like that," argued Conan. "Can't I at least see how I feel after school, and maybe I'll change my mi….? Mom? You still there?"

The line was disconnected. Conan found it amusing. "She really hung up on me, huh?"

He attempted to call her back, only to discover she turned her phone off. "Ok, now's she's just being petty."

Exiting the bathroom, he would come to discover Ran and Sonoko locked in conversation.

"When did Sonoko get here?"

"I'm sooooo not looking forward to it," conveyed Sonoko, her voice carrying a growing annoyance. "Like.. why does he need to speak with me? It's not like I have some ground breaking intel or something!"

Ran half smiling, replied. "I'm sure it won't be all that bad, and besides.. at the end of it all, you might get another opportunity to see Kid."

What was being discussed? Conan mildly interested, inserted himself into the equation. "What are you guys talking about?"

"I see the brat hasn't taken off for school yet," murmured Sonoko under breath.

"Nothing really, just another scheme in the works to catch Kaitou Kid," Ran informed.

"And the new guy wants to talk to me after school," Sonoko added.

"New guy?"

Sonoko rolled her eyes. "Uncle Jirokichi hired some foreigner to aid with his next attempt to try to catch Kid-sama. Don't really know all the details. Apparently, he wants to have a word with me about my past encounters with Kaitou Kid."

"Do you happen to know his name?"

"Don't know, don't care," Sonoko coldly responded. "All I know, based on the few people who've worked with him thus far, all have said the same."

"Which is?"

"Talks very little, keeps to himself, not much for smiles. The only one he really converses with is uncle."

"Maybe they have a lot in common," Conan jokingly noted.

"You might be onto something. He's probably just some old-timer looking for thrills and a paycheck." Suddenly, excitement manifested. Sonoko quickly turned to Ran. "Oh, I know!"

Ran was unsure if she should be worried. "What is it?"

"After school, you can come over and accompany me! That way I won't get interrogated alone!" Sonko felt elated.

Ran was less than thrilled. "I'm pretty sure no one is going to interrogate you."

"Please! I'll feel a lot safer if you come with. For all I know, he.. he could be some creeper or something!"

Ran raised her arms to hip. "Now you're just being dramatic, and besides, aren't your parents going to be home?"

While Conan found himself somewhat entertained by the back and forth, he knew time was of the essence.

"Would you look at the time. I better get going, don't want to be late for school!" Speaking not another word, Conan took off.

….

The hand of the clock motioned, bringing about the passing of another hour. eight A.M. He blinked, feeling the exhaust from a lack of sleep. A sudden knock came from the door a short distance away. Motioning, he spoke. "Come in."

A large man with a small scar across his left eyebrow wearing a dark-colored business suit entered, softly closing the door behind. "Chief…?"

"Still no progress, Otaki."

"I see." Silence rose. Clearing his throat, Goro spoke again. "I'm going to visit that coffee shop just down the street. Want anything?"

Heizo directing his focus back to bedside, shook his head. "No thanks. I'm fine."

Goro nodded, exiting just as quietly as he had entered.

"Three days… it has been three days. Fifty two dead… yet, you survived. And now I sit here; juggling in mind how you are the only one to breathe its effects and not succumb to death."

The tune of the heart monitor hummed to ear. Closing his eyes, he took a deep breath, only to gasp in the process of doing so upon hearing subtle movement below.

"Could it be…?"

The eyes of the young man lying before him flashed wide for the first time since being admitted to the hospital.

Gazing up, he locked eyes with the man positioned over him. "Dad..?"

"Heiji?!"

Feeling a rush in adrenaline, Heizo's first action was to look toward the door. "Doctor! Come quickly! He's awake!"

…

The rise in temperature increased by the minute. A short-haired girl stopped after another step, raising a hand over her smoldering eyes that felt the effects of the fuming sun. "I certainly hope the mile run isn't scheduled for today's gym class."

Gritting her teeth, she tightened her eyes momentarily, feeling the heats surging wave graze the entirety of her body. Pressing past the main entrance to the school, the circulating cool air inside pleasantly greeted her. The carrying voices of conversation from the many students tuned on all sides. She paid this no mind as she made way to her first period.

"Good morning Sera-san!"

Hearing the call of her name, Masumi looked over her shoulder, giving a quick wave to her classmate before continuing. However, she would only manage another half-step after catching wind of something.

"Kudo, Shinichi? Do you know where I can find him?"

Hearing the mention of his name, Masumi stopped to spot a boy with long brown hair she had never seen before talking to a girl from her math class just feet away. "Who is that guy? Furthermore, what does he want with Kudo-kun?"

Masumi remained stationary as the pair conversed. Dialogue between the two would go on for roughly a minute. At conversations conclusion, both went their separate ways. Masumi managed a brief glance with the brown-haired boy as he passed, noting his green eyes. She would then step in front of the girl from her class.

"Hey, who was that guy?"

"Just some foreign exchange student."

"Exchange student?"

"That's what he said."

Masumi got straight to the point. "I heard mention of Kudo-kun,"

"Oh yea. He was just asking basic stuff."

"… Like?"

"When's the last time he showed up for school, who he hangs out with, does he have a girlfriend.. you know, just the basic stuff. Supposedly he some big fan of his or something."

Masumi blinked, immediate suspicion arising. Shedding eye on the exchange students who was now clear on the opposite side of the hall, she made a move to follow.

"Sera-san! Where are you going?!"

By this time, the hall was paraded with students and staff, making it difficult for her to maneuver toward the sought target. Maintaining view, Masumi witnessed as he stepped at the left corner far ahead.

Masumi hissed. "Dammit, if I don't hurry, I'll lose track of him."

After some difficulty, she reached the end of the hall. Turning, he was nowhere to be found. There were three doors he could have entered; the Men's bathroom, the maintenance closet, or the lunchroom. Masumi quickly checked the closet, no one to be found. Upon closing it, a student stepped out from the men's restroom.

"Excuse me." Masumi kindly confronted him. "Is there anyone else in that bathroom?"

"Nope, just me," the boy replied.

"Are you positive?" Masumi had to be sure.

"One hundred percent. No one else was in there except me."

"Then that must mean he is in the lunch lounge!" Masumi took off in stride.

"Hey, no running in the hall!" The boy shouted from behind.

Determination pumped throughout, forcing the doors open with a powerful shove of her forearm. Plowing through, immediate contact was made with another.

"Ahuhhh…"

Losing balance, Masumi tumbled forward, drilling into the stiff chest of a boy. It was a move which sent the pair gliding to the ground. Pushing up from where her head had fallen beside his, Masumi looked down This wasn't the supposed exchange student she had spotted. He wasn't wearing a school uniform, and had short, spiked, wavy black hair. A notable difference from the lengthy brown hair of the sought man of interest.

Their eyes locked, a captivating gaze that seemed to be timeless. "Your eyes…" The only words to escape her lips.

".. My eyes?" His voice, calming.

The right, a bubbly blue in tint comparable to that of a morning clear sky. The left, a ravaging forest green makeup of a twirling flame. "They're different colors."

He blinked, responding. "Heterochromia."

"Heterochromia?"

"It's a condition where a person's eyes present different colors from one another," he softly explained. "A foil of two sides of a coin, if you will."

Masumi drew her own comparison. "Yin, Yang."

"Earth, Sky."

"Solid… liquid."

He leveled up, bringing the two within inches of one another. "As much as we could go on, do you find it feasible that I may get back to my feet?"

Blushing, Masumi made an immediate move to press up from her position upon him.

"My deepest apologies. I got completely sidetracked." Dusting off her skirt, Masumi would hold out a hand, which he would accept. "I should really be more careful coming through those doors."

Now back on his feet, the man across would adjust the strap to the bag hanging from his shoulder. "I better get going. I still have a few other soda machines that need to be filled throughout the school."

"So, this guy is a vendor," Masumi realized. Looking ahead, she didn't spot anyone else. She turned back to the vendor exiting the lunchroom.

"Excuse me."

He would stop, leveling eye once more. "Yes?"

"Before I entered, did you happen to cross a student with green eyes and long brown hair? He would have pranced through here shortly before my arrival."

To her dismay, he shook his head. "You're the only one I've encountered in here since I filled up the machine, sorry."

He would exit. Masumi would scour the room for a second time, not a single person in sight. "This makes little sense. He wasn't in the men's bathroom, maintenance closet, or here. Unless this guy can walk through walls, I should have encountered him at-" Spotting something on the ground beside foot brought a haste end to her inner thoughts. "What's that?"

Reaching for the item in question, Masumi held it above head, the sun's beaming ray through window side bringing a reveal. "An eye contact? But what's it doing here?"

Examining further, she found it to be green. It then clicked in mind. "Could it be?!"

Racing for the doors once again, she pushed through just before the vendor was about to turn the corner. It felt as if her heart skipped a beat, spotting what appeared to be a brown-colored wig hanging from the bag over his shoulder.

"Hey! Hold up!" Masumi took off after him. "Now I see, heterochromia was nothing more than a coverup. His eyes are naturally blue. He must have lost one of his eye contacts by accident when we collided. In other words; the soda vendor and the green-eyed student inquiring about Shinichi, are two sides of a coin...one and the same."

Charging the corner, a large crowd of marching students would unfortunately greet Masumi. Her eyes ran rapid, clutching her fists in a deep, gutted realization. "He's gone."

…..

The last bell for the school day rang clear throughout the halls of Ekoda High. Akako Koizumi patiently tucked a few of her unneeded books into her locker, taking note of the expected glances she received from many of the boys who passed by from behind; a very welcomed development. Finishing up, she firmly closed her locker to be greeted by a grinning Kaito.

"Good afternoon Sunshine-chan," remarked the magician.

An expression of awkward uncertainty mustered across her face. "Was that supposed to be a compliment?"

"Only the best I have to offer," replied Kaito. Akako grasping the straps of her bag began to walk, prompting Kaito to do the same. "So ahhhh, you going to be busy this evening?"

To say the witch was intrigued, would be an understatement. Stopping after only a few taken steps, she faced him. "What's it to you?"

Kaito smirked, happily rubbing his hands together. "I knew I could count on your cooperation."

Her face fell dull. "What's that's supposed to mean…? Just what are you up to, Kuroba-kun?"

Kaito simply laughed. "Come on, I'll tell you all about it on the way out."

Hesitant, Akako would follow his lead.

….

The two walked nearly in perfect alignment, much to Ran's dismay. "Well.. we're here."

Sonoko happily smiled. "Thanks again for coming with me. Don't worry, I'm sure this won't take long."

"I certainly hope not," Ran murmured.

"I'm home!" announced Sonoko as the two entered.

It didn't take long for a short haired woman to appear from down the hall. "Welcome home Sonoko." She would note the girl at her side. "And I see Ran-chan is with you."

"Yea, I asked her to come along for the questioning process. You know, since she has encountered Kid-sama as well. The more intel, the better, right?"

"Speaking of which, Drake-san is actually waiting for you in the study," informed Tomoko. Following this, she would curiously step past the two in the direction they had come.

"Where are you going mama?" asked Sonoko.

"I have a few errands to run, I should return within the next hour or two." Making haste, she would exit, leaving just the two of them.

"So.. the study," Ran noted. Sonoko finding position behind, firmly grasped Ran's shoulders as she forced her forward. "Sonoko, what are you doing?"

"I think it would be better if you went first. After all, we still don't know if this old guy is some creep or something," Sonoko explained. "If he try's anything funny, you can take him down with one of those kicks of yours."

Feeling the impact of the shove with every taken step, the study was reached far sooner than Ran would have desired. And then she saw him, standing a number of feet away with his back to the pair. She was shocked. "He's young."

Feeling a joined presence, the man wearing a teal-colored three-piece suit and a matching fedora hat would turn to exchange glance, one that seemed to last many seconds. An almost questioning look came to be expressed. Ran was uncertain what to make of this.

"You.. you're not Sonoko Suzuki." His tone, calming, yet.. carrying a coldness.

Hearing the mention of her name, Sonoko would peek out from the side of her friend, shocked just as much as ran. "Huh? He's not an old guy?"

Recognizing her from the pictures he had seen, Tim took a step forward, bowing his head. "The pleasure is mine, Ms. Suzuki." Adjusting his collar, he continued. "You're even softer on the eyes in person, the pictures I saw of you withheld the complete package of your grace."

Sonoko blushed, looking away to try and hide that fact. Motioning to move, Tim would then turn eye to Ran. "I guess it's true what they say, lasses of the same feather travel in a flock."

The complemented prompted the same reaction from Ran. After another marched step, Tim stopped, taking a moment to gander over the pair. This was something Ran took note of.

"Listen, I know the two of you probably have more important or activities you'd rather dwell in than speaking with me, so.. I'll make this little gathering of ours as brief as possible," Tim promised.

"Nonsense. You can take all the time you need," Sonoko girlishly assured.

Ran couldn't help but narrow her eyes at her friend, muttering under breath. "Well, this is definitely a change in energy."

"Very well, what can the two of you tell me about your experiences with.. Kaitou Kid?"

….

The two walked side by side. Ai glanced over, Conan was clearly deep in thought.

"You've been completely zoning out all day," Ai spoke. Conan did not respond. "Still thinking about that Batman, huh?"

Conan huffed, grasping the edges of his pockets.

"You've spent the past three days investigating the matter. So, when do you plan on telling me what you've uncovered? Or in the very least, what you believe? Tell me, has the brilliant detective figured out who Batman is yet?"

Giving in, Conan would speak. "Well, there's two ways of looking at it. One; from a symbolic way, a unit of many working together that has brought about the birth of the legend known as Batman. While perception may be of a single person in operation, it could actually be many."

"And the second?"

"A particular individual. I at first believed it to be the former, but now… the latter is seeming a lot more plausible. Even if comprehension of it is clouded."

"Explain."

"Agent Jodie, the last we spoke, she mentioned the Commissioner of Gotham City, Gordon James, has some kind of bat signal sitting atop the police headquarters."

"I recall. And you believed that Gordon-san was running his only little secret operation of these so called, Batmen, correct? Is that still your belief?"

"A great detective never settles on a singular possibility," Conan stopped, prompting Ai to do the same. "Concerning the possibility of Batman being a specific individual. Well, there were several factors to consider."

"Which are?"

"Stories indicate the Batman mainly operates out of Gotham City right? So, it stands to reason if we're narrowing it down to one person, that's where they would reside."

"Makes sense."

"Secondly, it would have to be someone with not only a large amount of funds, but notable resources as well. Without that, they wouldn't be able to function on the level that the Batman is stated to operate on."

Ai chose not to speak, curious to hear what his breakdown would lead.

"Last, and one of the most important factors would be motive. What would motivate someone to such a degree they would feel the need to challenge crime on their own on such a large scale?"

"So, have you locked in on a prime suspect, Shinichi?"

"Ah Hmm," nodded Conan in confirmation as he faced her. "Bruce Wayne."

This caught Ai by surprise. "Wayne? As in the same Bruce who is the father of Damian-kun?"

"Of all the categories mentioned, there were several who fit the mold. But no one checked all the boxes, except Wayne-san. It wasn't hard, all of what I found was public record."

"Ok, what's the supposed motive?"

"Wayne-san witnessed the death of his parents as a child. They were shot right in front of him in an alleyway."

Ai wasn't fully convinced. "You really think that would be enough to drive him to the extreme lengths that this Batman character has rumored to indulge in?"

"Pain… sorrow, is handled differently by every individual. Do I think that to be the only factor? No. But I do believe, if Wayne-san is in fact the Batman, that was the starting spark that erupted his flame."

"…"

"Don't you find it a bit strange? Damian-kun shows up in Tokyo, and in under a week Batman appears, coincidence? Then came the night of the Kamen Yaiba show, when Hattori and I crossed him, Damian-kun stated he was looking for a man dressed in a Kamen Yaiba suit. Two of them turned up that night. Could it be the one he was in search of was the Joker? If Bruce Wayne is Batman, it stands to reason his son is aiding him in some fashion."

Ai was impressed. "I shouldn't have expected anything less from you. However, not once in that summation of yours did I hear what you truly believe. So, do you actually think Wayne-san is Batman?"

Conan placed a hand over his face, slightly tugging at his hair in frustration. "It's all just blocks of circumstantial crumbs and hypothesis as of now. I don't have any proof to say otherwise as of this moment. It's more likely Gordan-san of the GCPD has his own secret operation running like I originally came to suspect. But, all other possibilities are not something I can ignore."

Conan motioned to walk again with Ai trotting a mere step behind.

"What will you do next? Will you confront Damian-kun?" Ai was interested to know.

The two reached the end of the block, marking where they were to part. Before doing so, Conan responded with honesty. "As of this moment, I'm not entirely sure."

The two would go their separate ways, leaving the young investigator to dwell in his thoughts. Before he knew it, Conan found himself in eye's vision of the agency. He would reach for his phone, redialing the last number he had attempted to call.

"She still isn't responding. How long does mom plan on keeping this up for?"

He arrived inside in minimal time, taking a seat on the couch before choosing to turn on the TV.

'Breaking News' appeared on screen. Reading the words plastered, a rush of relief plowed to the surface. "Hattori! He's awake!"

Upon seeing this, he felt the urge to call his friend immediately. Before he could do so, his phone rang. Could it be? Conan wasted no time in taking the call. "Hattori?!"

A chuckle came from the other end. "I see you've learned of your friend's improving health. Saw the news myself just a couple minutes ago, Shinichi."

"Dad?"

…..

The meeting with Sonoko and her friend had gone well, garnering better results than Tim had expected. Stepping out from the taken taxi, he had arrived back at the hotel he was staying at. It took all but a few moments for him to notice someone of familiarity standing a few feet away from the main entrance.

"Damian." Tim approached. "What are you doing here?"

Stepping up from where he leaned, Damian uncrossed his arms. "I spoke with Grayson this morning. Learned father is currently on a private jet, and will land here in Tokyo in an hour."

"Didn't hear a question."

"I was told his return is your doing. Explain. I want to know what you've got going on," to which Damian replied.

Dropping eye, Tim would step past. "Come, we'll discuss matters upstairs."

The two would proceed to the elevator, neither speaking a word the entire time up. Damian would be the first to speak upon their arrival. "Let me guess, you need help deciphering the hidden message written for Kaitou Kid?"

"Yes, and no."

Damian was curious, "What's that supposed to mean?"

"The location of choice, the day, and exact desired time for all to unwind, I've figured that much already," Tim revealed. "The thing is, the message was specifically meant for Kid's eyes, what I'm missing… the why? What does this mystery person want with Kaitou Kid? What do they have planned? I believe the only one who can answer that is the Kid Thief himself."

"Does it really matter what they have planned?"

"Better to know, so I can plan accordingly before the big meet. And if my deduction of the message is correct, only nine days remain for what they have planned."

"So, what you're saying is-"

"Yes. I need to unravel who Kaitou Kid truly is before then. Once I've done that, determining if he is an enemy or potential ally will cement how I'll proceed with the case. Either way, I may very well need his input to crack the code in full. I'm done waiting for an opening, it's time to reel everything into my corner to dictate."

Damian's expression fell blank. "As per usual, Drake's sense for control has leaked to the surface. Let's just hope his brash decisions don't end up hampering us down the line." He would clear his throat. "That's all well and said, but how do you plan on getting him out into the open? It's not like his degeneracy is a nightly occurrence." '

Tim took a seat at bed's edge. "Bait."

"Bait…?"

"That's where Bruce comes in. By my request, he was able to find and purchase the 'Bird' Revenant statue. With it, we're going to lure Katiou Kid to a.. how should I say, public gathering tonight at the Skytale building. The plan is to keep it displayed at the Skytale facility, even after tonight's events."

"There's just one issue I see with that plan. Kid doesn't just show up and take something of interest, he always gives notice days in advance. It's all about the thrill and spectacle. What's a show without an audience?" Damian would shift. "Your plan to catch Kid, while plausible, is notably more on the field of inductive reasoning. You need a more guaranteed approach, Drake."

"That's where you're wrong. Kid will most definitely show up." Tim was sure of this. "From the lengthy discussions I had with Mr. Suzuki, Kaitou will typically visit the location for where he plans to obtain an item of interest, gaining knowledge not only of the layout of a particular facility, but to get an understanding of any and all security measures set in place."

"I've yet to see a broadcast for tonight's event."

"The televised announcement occurred an hour ago. Not only that, I'd imagine Kid became aware of the event prior to the public."

This came as a surprise. "How so?"

"I discovered someone had bugged Jirokichi Suzuki's office this morning, no doubt by Kid himself. If I had to take a guess, it was a move for him to learn not only about Mr. Suzuki's next scheme to apprehend him, but to study me as well. Unfortunately, I was unable to trace where he was recording from. By the time I found the placed devices, someone had already cut the connection."

"With a new piece on the board, it makes perfect sense Kid would opt for such a move. Though, there's still something I must inquire. Couldn't you have accomplished this on your own? Why does father feel the need to make an appearance?"

Tim held up six fingers. "The treble and the three sheep."

"Batman, Detective Mouri, Kaitou Kid, Nightwing, the Flash, and-"

"Kudo, Shinichi," Tim completed. "Bruce suspects the next phase of the Riddler's plan will involve all who took part in the first challenge."

"Now I understand. We have accounted for everyone except Kid and Kudo. Where.. and in the case of Kid, who he truly is."

"Precisely. Tonight isn't just about reeling in Kaitou Kid, but Shinichi as well," Tim revealed. "When coming up with this plan, I had that in mind from the very start. Kid was simple, the real task was finding a way to entice Shinichi's attendance."

"And?"

"Kudo, Yusaku. A well-known novelist, and also the father of Shinichi. He is the key player in summoning Shinichi. Besides the Bird Revenant statue being put on display tonight, Skytale is also the venue where Yusaku will be part of a book signing session along with a few other decorated writers. Speaking with Bruce, he informed to me that he also awarded Mr. Yusaku three tickets for entry to the building for tonight's gathering. Who do you think he'll bring, I'd wager.. his family."

For the first time in their exchange, Damian smirked. "Two birds, one stone. Well played, Drake. I suppose there's only one thing I have left to question."

"Which is?"

"Kaitou Kid. How do you plan to figure out who he is?"

Tim stood from the bed, walking over to the mirror across the room. Standing, he stared into the depths of his own reflection. "It's simple. Unlike everyone to come before, I'm going to play his game."

….

Conan's reaction was to freeze at what was conveyed. "A masked man? Are you sure you weren't able to make out any identifying features?"

"It was actually Akai-kun who encountered the individual in question. What he wants with you is a mystery."

"And you don't believe it has anything to do with the Organization?"

"Akai-kun certainly doesn't believe so, but even still, we should exercise caution."

Conan stood silently, surfing through his thoughts of endless possibilities. "Are you at the house? I can be over in less than-"

"Unfortunately, I'm not," Yusaku interjected. "I'm actually on my way to Skytale."

Then it clicked. "That's right! Skytale, the book signing. Mom told me about it earlier. I can meet you up there."

"About that, the two extra tickets your mother was given have been-"

Conan's focus would be drawn away by the arrival of Ran who stepped in past the door, taking immediate notice of him. "Conan-kun, where's dad? And who are you talking to?"

"I.. ummm, Hattori!" Conan announced. "I don't know if you knew, but he finally woke up."

"Yea, Kazuha-chan called and informed me." Ran placed a hand to chin. "But it's strange, because what I was told, Hattori-kun isn't sending, or taking any calls right now."

Ran growing suspicious would look down at Conan. "So why is it you're able to chat with him? Or is that even who you're talking to?"

Thinking quickly, Conan would hold down the button to shut off his phone. "Sorry dad." Stepping forward, Conan would hold up his phone for Ran to take. "Here, you can talk to him for yourself if you don't believe me."

Ran accepting the phone would place it to ear. "Hello… Hattori-kun?" No response came. Holding the phone out in front, she discovered that it was off.

Conan laughed, rubbing a hand on the back of his head. "Oops, looks like the battery must have died."

Narrowed eyes and all, Ran handed the phone back to him. "Well, isn't that just convenient?"

Conan watched as she headed for her room, sighing in relief. "That was a close call. I better wait a bit before I call dad back."

Taking a seat, Conan's sights fell on window side. Not thinking of anything particular as the sound of the shower sparked soon there after. "Now is my chance."

Just as he was to turn his phone back on, Kogoro entered the room. "Alright, now to see what we're having for dinner tonight!" Disappointment washed over him when he discovered there was nothing on the stove. "Ran really is slacking this evening, huh?"

"She just got home a short time ago," Conan informed.

"Just got home? School ended hours ago. Where was she?"

Conan shrugged. "I have no idea. You'll have to ask her yourself."

Several minutes passed. After drying and putting on a new set of clothes, Ran would join the two out in the main room. With a paper now in hand, Kogoro would lower it to the desk. "Ran, Conan told me you arrived home shortly before I did."

Ran nodded, giving confirmation. "I was with Sonoko. I accompanied her to her home. She wanted me at her side while she got questioned by Drake-kun."

Conan looked at her curiously. "Drake-kun?"

"From the little I know, Sonoko's uncle hired him for the sole purpose of apprehending Kaitou Kid. Basically, Drake-kun wanted to pick our brains regarding our past encounters with him. But, it was… strange."

Kogoro leaned forward. "Strange, how do you mean?"

"The way he talked, the way he looked at us even." Ran paused. "It didn't completely feel like a prototypical interview."

Conan remained silent.

Kogoro leaned back in his seat. "Under the assumption he's a young man, could it simply be he was checking you ladies out?"

"Well, yea, but not in that kind of way."

Conan's interest skyrocketed. "How do you mean?"

"He started by complementing our looks. But… I don't know. It felt like more of a ruse, a move simply to get us comfortable." Ran took a number of moments to find the words to explain further. "Just as much as he digested what we said, he seemed to study our every move, the way we walked, talked, expressions, our gestures even. It almost felt like standing in a room with... a detective."

"What?"

Ran faced him. "Hidden behind his eyes, I've seen it all too many times.. with Shinichi." She then faced her father. "Dad, he had the same look you have every time you're analyzing a crime scene."

Kogoro was speechless, as was Conan. Neither knew what to make of this revelation. Before either pressed further, Ran's phone rang. Stepping away, she answered. "Hello?"

The two waited patiently. Ran checked her watch, as a look of excitement rushed to express. "Really?! Right now?!"

Kogoro's eyes sharpened. "She's quite excited all of a sudden."

"Of course I'll come! Just give me like ten minutes! I can't wait to see you!"

Conan crossed his arms over his chest, a level of suspicion rising for him as well. "Ran is way too thrilled. Just who the hell is she talking to?"

Ran placing her phone into her pocket would anxiously skip off to her room. She would return shortly after with a handbag now strapped upon her shoulder.

Kogoro would question his daughter. "Ran, where are you going?"

"I'll call you when I get there. I don't have time to explain!"

"What about dinner?!"

"You'll have to order out," called Ran in return.

The sound of her steps faded down the stairwell. Conan and Kogoro looked to one another, this prompted Kogoro to stand from his seat. It was clear, the two were thinking the same.

….

Now positioned atop a building adjacent to Skytale, Kaito looked on with a pair of binoculars. He couldn't help but laugh as he sighted the layout and the position of where the Bird Revenant was stationed. "This is really the set up they're going for?! This is going to be easier than I thought! It's like the old timer isn't even trying anymore!"

Kaito was ecstatic , his laughter carrying in a presumptive victory.

"Tell me again why I'm here?" questioned a disinterested Akako positioned beside him.

Evading the question, Kaito would direct her attention. "There in the far-left corner of the room is old man Suzuki."

"I know who he is," Akako felt the need to note after granting the requested.

"Another key player is Drake, Timothy. He's standing near the table of beverages,"

Locking in, a devilish smirk formed. "He's kinda cute." Dropping the binoculars from her line of view, she faced Kaito who was still watching on with heavy anticipation. "Be truthful, why did you really invite me to tag along with this scheme of yours? Of all your heists, not once have you sought my assistance, like.. ever."

"Admittedly, I don't need your help for this one either," a smiling Kaito responded as he continued his scope of the target location.

Akako leveled a single hand to hip. "Then why am I here?"

Kaito parting from the binoculars momentarily, faced her. "I need an extra set of eyes, or rather the use of your… special ability."

Interest spewed. "Oh yea, and what specialty might that be?"

"That red demon from that premonition of yours. If they are in attendance, you'd be able to sense them, right?"

"Perhaps."

Kaito was pleased to hear this. "Then it appears I was right in having you tag along." Rasing the binoculars in hand once again, focus would fall back on Skytale. "Fact of the matter is, with so many moving parts; Batman, the Royal Flush Gang, a Kaitou Kid imposter, seeking aide from Akako at this time, doesn't seem like such a bad move. Not to mention, I've still yet to determine who or what the Red Demon is; Akako is my best bet in that regard."

"Kuroba-kun, you still haven't revealed my role or who you'll be disguised as once we enter," Akako reminded.

Kaito chuckled. "Oh yes, I suppose the fine details are necessary."

….

Moving with subtlety, the pair managed to stay out of sight in pursuit of the target. They watched as she stopped at the corner, signaling for a taxi. It didn't take long for one to appear. After it took off, the two would step out of hiding.

Kogoro would state the obvious. "Ran took a taxi. Looks like we'll be doing the same." Finding way to the same spot she had stood, they too would call for a taxi. Thankfully for them, it didn't take long for another to appear.

After the pair were seated, the driver asked, "Where are you headed?"

"Follow that other taxi two cars up," Kogoro instructed.

"That I can do."

The pursuit was now on.

"Just who is she be meeting? It must be that no good detective boy," Kogoro murmured.

Conan vaguely hearing him found slight humor. "Definitely not, since I'm sitting right here."

But if not him, then who? Conan was determined to find out the answer to that. They drove for several minutes. Finally, they came to a stop. Stepping out from the vehicle, Conan and Kogoro were both shocked to see where the pursuit had led them.

"Skytale? What business does Ran have here?"

"Your guess is as good as mine." Conan was just as clueless.

After paying the taxi driver, the two looked toward Ran who entered the main entrance.

"Hurry kid, we can't lose sight of her." The two hustled, not wanting to fall behind to the point of them losing sight of her.

Entering the building, the two spotted Ran jogging down a long hall, taking a sharp left at its end.

"She really is in a hurry. Whoever she is meeting, it must be important." Conan noted internally.

Just as the two came within range of the corner Ran had turned, the carry of a familiar voice caused the two to slow in step. "Could it be?"

Of the two, Kogoro was the first to peek around the corner, Even though he could not make out her face, because she stood with her back to them, there was no mistaking who it was in his mind. Her sharpened figure, the worn formal attire, her lengthy hair tied to where it did not hang.

"Eri…?" Kogoro was at a loss. This was not who he was expecting to see. She and Ran were standing opposite of an older man who stood behind a counter. Were they checking in for something?

Conan too got a look in as well. "Kisaki-san? So, that's who Ran was talking with over the phone. But what are they doing here?"

The two observed in silence. Hoping to learn just that.

"What do you mean we're not on the list?!" exclaimed Eri.

"For the third time mam, neither you nor your daughter are on the guest list. I'm sorry," the man politely relayed.

Irritation growing, Eri checked the time on her watch. "Oh great, the deadline for check in on the twenty fifth floor is two minutes."

Ran worriedly looked to her mother. "What happens if we don't meet the deadline?"

"We won't be allowed entry," replied Eri before facing the man across once more. "How about if I call the one who invited us? She's currently on the floor where the event is being held."

He shook his head. "Sorry, but that won't be enough. Those not on the guest list are prohibited from entering. A condition set in place by Wayne, Bruce."

Feeling the urge to say something further, Eri bit her lower lip as a barrier not to argue any further. Ran leaned close to her mother before whispering. "Who is Wayne, Bruce?"

"A spoiled rich kid industrialist who is notorious for his playboy like tendencies. Just your average wealth seeking business man looking to expand his reach, even if unwarranted," Eri responded with sass carrying in voice.

Ran, dumbfounded, couldn't find words for a response.

"Come Ran," Eri said rolling her eyes as she turned for the exit. "I don't want to waste having you come out. We'll spend our evening elsewhere."

She took all but a single step before bumping into a large man in a business suit. Glancing up, she immediately apologized. "Excuse me! My deepest apologies."

"An unwarranted apology, Mrs. Kisaki, it was I who stepped in your walking path."

Eri was shocked. "How do you know my name?"

"I made it my business to know the names of all in attendance tonight." Raising his right arm, he held out his hand. "Bruce Wayne."

Shaking away the expressed awkwardness, Eri extended her hand to grasp his. "The pleasure is mine."

The clerk behind the desk spoke. "Oh, Wayne-sama. I wasn't expecting you to return to the lobby. If you could, these two young ladies claim to be part of the guest list, I did not see them listed. But based on your exchange, would it be right to assume they are?"

Bruce faced him. "Correct. I apologize for not updating you sooner. I was just directly informed they'd be joining within the past twenty minutes."

Bruce would then acknowledge the young woman standing beside Eri. "And you must be Mouri Ran, yes?"

Ran nodded, giving confirmation. "It's an honor to meet you Wayne-sama."

"You two better hurry on up. Mrs. Kudo is expecting you. Once you reach the twenty fifth floor, there is a section toward the far-right corner of the room, a round table. That's where she's seated," Bruce conveyed. He then reached for his phone. "I'll let security know the two of you are on your way up to avoid any further delay."

"Thank you very much," Eri bowed. Making haste, she looked to her daughter. "Ran, let's go."

Conan and Kogoro continued to monitor things from where they hid behind the corner, observing as Ran and Eri entered the elevator.

His name leaked from Conan's lips upon seeing him. "Bruce Wayne…"

"The twenty fifth floor? Just what is taking place up there?" Kogoro wondered.

"Well, at least we now know who Ran came here to meet," said Conan turning back for the exit only to have his body take off from the ground.

Kogoro grabbing hold of the back of Conan's jacket held him up to eye level. "And just where do you think you're going, huh?"

"What's the point of us sticking around? It's not like she's hanging with some strange person you'd deem dangerous or suspicious," Conan stated.

"It's simple. I want to know why they're here."

Conan's slightly squinting his eyes would cross his arms. "You have to be on the guest list to be allowed entry, remember?"

"You think I don't know that?" Coughing, Kogoro cleared his throat while lowering Conan back to the ground. "That's why I need to find a way to sneak in. And you're going to help me."

…..

Silence hovered over the pair on their way up, Ran feeling an urge to break it, spoke. "Mom, do you think he heard what you said?"

Eri, uncertain for what her daughter was speaking of, pressed for clarity. "Excuse me?"

"Wayne-sama. Do you believe he overheard your remarks regarding him?"

An almost half grin registered to her lips. "Oh, he most certainly did." Eri was almost sure of this.

"How can you be sure?"

With the elevator reaching the sought floor, Eri relayed but a single word. "Unwarranted."

Ran was uncertain of what to make of it, but chose not to pursue the topic any further. Exiting the elevator, they walked into what resembled a comprehensive library. Every direction, there were books to find, shelves upon shelves expanding from one side of the room to the other. By her count, there were a number of five distinct lines of people in wait. The security guard standing beside the door would hand each of them a badge.

"What do you think all these people are in line for?" asked Ran.

"I imagine Kudo-san isn't the only novelist in attendance. No doubt these people are standing in wait for an opportunity for an autograph, or something of the such," Eri assumed.

Recalling what Bruce had said, Eri marched toward the far-right section of the room. Ran quickly followed suit. Patiently maneuvering around the lines that had taken shape, they finally met face with the renowned actress who wore a purple-colored dress with an accompanying stylish floppy hat.

"Eri, Ran-chan! So glad you guys could make it!" Her expression would briefly turn sour, bringing with it a murmur of disappointment. "Unlike a certain detective."

Stepping around the table, Yukiko would greet them.

"I hope we didn't keep you waiting long," Eri spoke.

"No, not at all. I actually enjoyed my little alone time."

Turning, Eri searched the room. "Where is your husband?"

"Oh, he's in the middle of fan greets and autograph signings. Don't worry about him. What do you say we head down to floor twenty-three to check out the art gallery?"

This came as a surprise. "Art gallery?" Ran questioned.

"Yes. Outside of the book enthusiasts on this floor, there is a small spectacle on floor twenty-three for art. They're even serving snacks and beverages down there."

"Not that I really care. But if this is a double event, why not have both take place on linking floors?" Eri questioned.

"I asked the same. I was told by security they were having trouble with the surveillance cameras on the twenty-fourth floor, thus why they moved the art display to the twenty-third floor," informed Yukiko. "But enough about that. What do you say we check out some eye gravitating art?"

….

Many people stood afloat, admiring the variety of art that decorated the space of the twenty-third floor. Ranging from different types of paintings, sculptures, and even eye captivating jewelry,

Jirokichi stood confidently at the center of the room, peeking an eye at the Bird Revenant toward the left. "Come on down Kid, we've got the red carpet nice and rolled out for you."

Tim watched just as carefully from the other end of the room, observing for anything out of the ordinary. A sudden vibration from his phone graced his attention, raising it, there were two words of text.

"Knock, Knock."

Checking who had sent it, Tim found it was a number he did not recognize. Regardless, he entertained his messenger, texting back. -Who's there?-

A response came quickly. This time, a picture. It was of an American robin with a photo cropped red helmet over its head. Knowing who it was, he spoke his name. "Jason."

Tim texted back just as fast. -What do you want?-

-To meet, ALONE-

-When?-

-Tonight-

-Where?-

-Will come to U-

Their string of texts would end there. "Just what are you up to, Jason?"

In an instant, the presence of another showered over him.

"Damian," Tim spoke his name, all while maintaining eye on the guests in his line of sight.

"Drake," responded Damian who stopped after taking position beside him. "Kaitou Kid, has he arrived?"

"No, not yet." Tim was confident in this belief. "But I have no doubt he'll soon make an entrance. One of absolute subtlety, at least in his eyes, and for everyone else not adapt to his deceptive nature."

"Since you don't plan on apprehending him, I must say, I'm quite intrigued to see how you plan to go about peeling his mask away en route to his true face."

"Unfortunately, that information will have to be provided later." Bruce joined the two in a corner of the room.

"I take it you have a task for me?" Damian assumed.

"We know from the discussion Bane and Shiva had that there is a small presence of the Ghost Dragons roaming this region. I want you to run a patrol. If you find or hear anything that could prove pivotal in disrupting their operation-"

"I'll radio it in." The task was straightforward.

"Before I forget, Tim, did your search earlier today amount to anything?"

Tim shook his head in disappointment. "Unfortunately not. Both attempts at gaining intel hit a stone wall."

"I see."

Before Damian would depart, he had a question. "That tracking device, the one that you crushed in hand the night of the Kamen Yaiba incident. After analyzing what remained of it, were you able to determine the manufacturer?"

"Based on the design and materials used to create that specific tracker, I was able to confirm it was in fact made here in Japan."

"How many companies fell in line of suspect?" Tim asked.

"Forty two in total."

"That's quite a steep number."

"Obviously, I had to narrow that list down. Which brought my focus to the child I encountered on the rooftop that night. It's not every day someone that age is carrying a utility such as that around. Based on that alone, I came to conclude they didn't create it on their own, but had it provided."

"I'd conclude the same."

"Keeping that in mind, I gathered a list of all adults in attendance at the live Kamen Yaiba show. One name stood above all," Bruce stated. "Agasa, Hiroshi."

Damian quickly faced him. "Agasa?!"

"I suppose I shouldn't be surprised you're aware of who he is. After all, a girl by the name of Haibara Ai, who is a student in the class you were selected to serve as the teacher's assistant, lives with the professor."

"Professor?" questioned Tim.

"Yes, Agasa is a well-known inventor. His skills are remarkable," Bruce conveyed.

"How does the Haibara girl factor into all of this? Do you believe her to be the one you encountered that night?"

"After running an extensive search on Agasa, I did the same for any known relatives or potential business partners."

"And I'm assuming this girl was the only notable hit?"

"She doesn't exist," Bruce revealed. "At least, not from the standpoint of the system. No records of a mother, father, or even her birth. Whoever she is, Haibara Ai, that is most certainly not her real name. Furthermore, Agasa is also the neighbor to one of Riddler's named sheep... Kudo, Shinichi."

"Who would have thought a simple tracer would take us down such a rabbit-hole." Tim's fascination with the situation only grew.

Damian took center stage "I understand why you might suspect Ai father, but in that case, may I nominate another? Edogawa, Conan."

Bruce faced him directly. "Conan?"

"His showcased intellect is far beyond that of an elementary student. Every group of friends, no matter if they attend school, are part of the workforce, or even in the military. One thing is a constant, every group has their lead wolf. In the case of; Haibara Ai, Yoshida Ayumi, Kojima Genta, and Tsuburaya Mitsuhiko, observing them from afar, there is no doubt in my mind who stands as lead of the pack."

"Edogawa."

"Agasa has accompanied them almost every instant I've crossed them outside of school. Between Edogawa and the Professor, they seem to have a peculiar relationship, one not of child and guardian as you would expect, but rather, equals. Something else to note, there's also that detective I told you about who I met on the Sunshine cruise, Hattori Heiji," Damian continued.

"What's the relevance of bringing him up?" Tim asked.

"Well, when you and I parted the night of the live Kamen Yaiba show in an attempt to locate the Joker, I discovered Edogawa and Hattori together. Their relationship felt, platonic, to say the least. Above all, they seemed to be investigating something."

By this point, Bruce had chained it all together. "The child on the rooftop, Conan's association with Professor Agasa, and the fact he was investigating something that night."

Tim agreed. "No way that's coincidence, the kid in the gas mask-"

"Conan Edogawa," Damian completed. "Well, at the very least, it's a high probability based on what we know concerning the situation as of now."

Silence shadowed over the trio for many seconds. Bruce knew he'd a new person of interest to investigate. Placing a hand into pocket, he spoke. "Damian, it's time."

He nodded. "Yes, of course." With nothing further to add, Damian marched off.

In a moment's time, Bruce removed an envelope from his pocket.

"What's this?" asked Tim upon receiving it.

"The DNA results came back on the hair sample discovered attached to the Kaitou Kid replica outfit at the Gotham Museum."

"You mean the one the Kaitou Kid imposter left behind?" Tim recalled. Opening the envelope, he looked over the results himself. "Well, now isn't this interesting?"

Placing the results into his jacket, he'd revert to a different matter.

"I gotta say. That high school detective, Shinichi. The way he operates, it's almost like he's one with the shadows. Quite reminiscent of our own moves across the board."

"He might not have shown up tonight as I had hoped, but both his parents are in attendance. I'll gain as much intel from them as I can."

"A direct approach could be risky."

"Agreed. Yusaku being the primary subject I don't want to tip off regarding my intent. He's just as cunning, if not more so than his son, mainly because of experience," revealed Bruce. "While a superb writer, he is also a highly intelligent man. No doubt he'd catch on if we started asking questions about the whereabouts of his son, even if indirectly. That would only cause his suspicions to fall squarely on me."

"So, how do you plan on working around that?"

Bruce smiled. "You'll see."

Tim looked over the room of guests once more. "If Kudo is as you described, there is no doubt he'll try to find out who you are. You realize that, right?"

"… I know."

"So…?"

Bruce faced him. "I need to find him first."

To Be Continued