Chapter Text
Falling.
Shinichi is falling.
Wind flutters against his body. His school uniform becomes rumpled from gravity and the persistent wind that he feels, but cannot be real. His eyes remain shut. Is there a ground to land on? Shinichi does not know.
He knows it’s a dream. Subconsciously, he recognizes it as a dream. A dream like many others.
And another voice that accompanies it.
Shinichi.
A voice that slips his grasp every single time he tries to remember.
Wake up.
Who are you?
Shinichi wakes up with a gasp, and coughs. Pushes his blankets away as he sits up, stabilizing his breaths. Another tear falls down his cheek, unbidden. He immediately wipes the tear off. Since his birthday has passed, the dreams have been common lately, followed by a sense of loss and an ache in his chest. What is even more frustrating is that he cannot explain why.
Shinichi sighs and leaves the bed. Locating his Teitan uniform in the closet, he swipes it off from the hangers and starts dressing.
Time for another day as Kudou Shinichi.
As Shinichi closes the door to his mansion, his phone begins to ring. Frowning, he debates whether to answer. Since he returned from a long case “overseas”, Ran has been getting on his case of overworking himself, leaving again during their friendly hang outs with Sonoko whenever Inspector Megure asks for help almost all the time. Ran insists that because they have a year together left at school, Shinichi needs to make time for her and Sonoko.
“Isn’t it time for a break and slow down a little Shinichi? You recently came back from a long case. We miss you,” Ran once said in passing.
Shinichi couldn’t argue with her.
The phone still rings, uncaring of his dilemma.
Stil, he prefers to solve another mystery and help out if he can…
Decision made, he answers the phone and almost regrets it when he immediately hears the voice.
“Shin chan !” Yukiko screams into his ear, causing Shinichi to pull his phone away as he cringes at the booming voice. Well, this is a surprise. “How is my baby doing?”
“Mom,” Shinichi sighs. “What do you want?”
“What’s with the attitude, Shin chan? Can’t mother dearest check in on you?” Yukiko pouts.
“Hey Shinichi, hope you are doing well. Have you gotten our presents yet?” Yusaku joins in.
“Not yet,” Shinichi answers, thinking the delivery is probably late. He has no need for gifts, but he appreciates it all the same. Gifts from his parents can be over the top sometimes…he is kinda dreading it.
“Should be arriving soon in a couple days,” Yusaku says, coming to the same conclusion. “Anyways, how are you faring in Japan? “
“I’m doing well,” Shinichi closes his eyes and leans back against the door. Blocks out the wistful memories and challenging times that cross his mind. “It’s not bad, just been more busy with school and helping out Megure keibu occasionally.”
A year he has missed out on. Things to catch up on. School. Friends. Life.
These thoughts are becoming stressful to think of, but it can’t be helped. He has a lot to repent and make amends for.
“The invite to come with us is still on the table.” Yusaku offers sympathetically as a response, as if he somehow has an idea of what is troubling Shinichi. Making correct deductions as always. And it wasn’t the first time Yusaku extended an olive branch out to him.
“That’s right, Shin chan ! I know you recently returned to your body but it must have been hard to adjust back to normal right? Plus, we can spend more time as a family ! “
Shinichi laughs at the words. He shakes his head, amused. Since middle school, he spent years living alone. He’s used to being independent. It’s only recently that they started doing calls to “catch up on each other’s lives”, however brief it is. The sentiment is nice but he has come this far without most of their guidance and has no reason to leave.
Ran is here. His friends are here. Everything he has in Japan is here.
“No, I’ll stay here.” Shinichi declines. “Besides, I need to catch up on schoolwork.”
“Alright, we support you, “ Yukiko says. He wonders if she already expected it. “Write to us, okay? Don’t be a stranger !”
“As if I can write or call when you’re running away from your editors and traveling around the world,” Shinichi states in a deadpan tone.
“Well, try anyways ! I’ll send you the address. “
“Pass. Call me instead. You have my number. I’m not the only one busy in the family.”
“Shin chan ! ” Yukiko whines.
“While it is amusing to see both of you getting along, we do have to go. Keep in touch Shinichi,” Yusaku interrupts. “I hope you like the gifts we sent you.”
“We love you !“
The call clicked, ending the call.
Shinichi stares at the call that ended, lost in his thoughts.
“Is that your parents?”
Shinichi startles and looks up to see Ran. Ran smiles and waves.
“Yeah.” Shinichi leans off the door to join Ran and both start to walk to school together. “They said their gifts will arrive soon.”
“That’s great. I’m happy to hear that Shinichi. It’s been a while since we had a celebration !”
“We celebrated last week, Ran.”
Ran smiles, not providing a response. Shinichi swallows and looks away. Their relationship may not have worked out but he appreciates that they can still be friends. The truth about Conan remains hidden from her and it is a can of worms Shinichi dares not to open.
‘Your birthday is still worth celebrating.’
“By the way, want to go to the mall with me and Sonoko? Sonoko mentions there’s a good fortune teller so we’re really curious !”
“Fortune Telling?” Shinichi snorts.
“Seriously Shinichi, it’ll be fun ! You don’t need to be a skeptic about everything.”
“I’m a detective. It’s my job to be skeptical.”
“Right. And you promise to hang out with us today so you better come with us!”
“Sure, sure. I’ll come with you.” Shinichi relents.
Considering everything, a fortune teller might be a change of pace to his day to distract himself with.
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“Guess what ? Guess what ? Kid is finally retiring !” In a flourish, Aoko brandishes the newspaper to her friends, who were eating their lunches at their desks. Recess barely started a few minutes in.
Kaito squints at the bold headlines : Kaitou Kid retires overseas in Paris !
“Isn’t that great Aoko? Your dad can come home often now.” Keiko says cheerfully, eating her bento.
“Indeed. Congrats Aoko kun.” Hakuba says.
“Oh man, that sucks. “ Kaito sighs out in a dramatic fashion. He props his arm on the desk and glances out of the window. “No more night escapades and stealing gems under the moonlight.”
Aoko whacks Kaito on the head with the folded newspaper. Kaito dodges in time, used to her antics, and grins at her. Aoko shakes her head disapprovingly.
“Seriously Kaito, can’t you be happy for me this one time?”
“As a number 1 fan of Kaitou Kid, I am unfortunately sad by the news,” Kaito shares solemnly. Aoko frowns but before she can interject, Kaito continues on, with a broad grin now present,” But as a friend, I'm happy for you Aoko ! Looks like we’ll get to see your dad more often.”
Aoko nods happily, pleased. “Yup ! We’re going to have dinner at home.”
“I hope you enjoy your dinner, Aoko chan.” Kaito jumps at the voice, and turns his head to see Akako. Since when did she appear? “Certainly it will be a new fresh start for both of you. Endings make for new beginnings, right Kuroba kun?” Akako tilts her head at Kaito expectantly.
“When the hell did you get here?” Kaito mutters under his breath quietly. Hakuba catches on.
“She has been here for 4 minutes and 28 seconds,” Hakuba contributes in a matter of fact tone, glancing at his watch. Kaito scoffs. “I suggest you be more attentive to your surroundings Kuroba kun instead of focusing on a single matter.”
“Shut it. By the way, how come you’re still here, Hakuba? You suspected that Kaitou Kid laid his roots here but you haven’t found any proof.” Kaito asks flippantly. Hakuba came to Japan a year ago to investigate Kaitou Kid. Although Kid has his main operations overseas that lie not in Japan only, he has no clue what Hakuba is investigating in Japan instead of, you know, going to heist sites to gather information. “Aren’t you overstaying your welcome?”
“I can not divulge the details of the case. However I find myself enjoying my time here thus far. Expanding my horizons in a new country is good.” Hakuba sips his Earl Grey Tea. “I don’t see how that’s any of your concern Kuroba. Is there a problem?”
“Yes, actually. “ Kaito straightens up in his seat, staring at Hakuba directly. “I’ll be more than glad you just sit there like the robot you are instead of complaining about my magic.”
For many years, Kaito has been actively following Kid from whatever source he can get it from - TV, online, print, and sometimes from an advent fan he stumbled upon by chance. When Kid performs his tricks, not a movement is wasted ; every trick he does is crafted carefully in his performance, anticipating an expected outcome in his favor. Clever, practiced, and swift. Taking out the crime factor, Kaito considers Kid as a role model and a great magician to surpass one day.
Kaito practices every day to close the gap. Looks like he might never find out if he did.
“I am simply expressing my opinion, Kuroba. It’s not like it’s unwarranted. Your antics are immature and cause disorder and chaos every time you step foot in the classroom.” Hakuba sets down his tea with a loud clunk, interrupting Kaito's musings. Turning to Kaito, he warns, “Regardless, it’s a tip toe line you’re treading. Following your aspirations in the steps of Kaitou Kid, if you dare to do so, will lead you to the path to prison. “
“Why you, you want to have a go at it?!” Kaito stands up abruptly, causing his chair to slide back roughly, bumping the desk behind him. Okay, that sure didn’t take long to raise his hackles in defense. As usual with the famed detective from England. Constantly testing the limits of his poker face ;he needs to do better. It's getting ridiculous having his feathers ruffle from the insult made which is not quite new. Hakuba remains unfazed in contrast, the bastard.
“Stop it both of you ! No fighting !” Aoko stands in between them.
“Step aside Aoko ! He’s insulting my expertise and character !”
“I made my case. I doubt it would come to that scenario.” Hakuba appears unruffled by his antagonism. “I won’t have any complaints if your…magic expertise is done outside. Otherwise, you are disturbing the class. Frankly, I am tired of being a target of your pranks.” Hakuba says, exasperated.
“He has a good point about the pranks Kaito. Can’t you let it go?” Aoko says, pleading, hoping they won't fight. Kaito glares at Hakuba but has no choice but to relent. Begrudgingly, he made a good point. The number of times the teacher yelled at him can’t be counted on one hand. He swings his chair back and puts his head down the desk. He resolutely ignores the stares around him.
He’s just bored….nothing is exciting in his life. It’s not like he has a deep hatred for Hakuba but he’s easy to provoke and make fun of despite his genius detective brain. Connecting Kaitou Kid to Kaito is a different story however so he feels somewhat offended by the accusation or judgment. He thrives in having an audience but he wonders if that’s a way to cope with the lack of affection in some areas of his life.
Already, he wants to graduate and leave the place.
“Also Hakuba kun, although Kaito may be a prankster and sometimes a pervert, “ Aoko adds firmly, continuing the conversation while Kaito lifts his head up and protests indignantly at that comment. “But he has a good heart and makes people smile with his magic. That fact is undeniable. There is no way he will become Kid ! So, I hope both of you warm up to each other soon and get along ! “ Aoko says with conviction, unwavering and determined. She smiles brightly at both of them, dispersing the tense atmosphere in the classroom. Kaito falters, warmed by her defense.
“Aoko…”
“You’re a good friend Aoko kun. Since you insist, I’ll do my best to get along with Kuroba,” Hakuba lips quirk into a small smile.
Ah, this is getting cheesy for his taste.
“You’re giving me goosebumps Hakuba, yikes. It almost makes me cringe at the sappiness. “ Kaito can't help but taunt, digging his own grave further. Aoko stares at him menacingly. Yup. This is more familiar. He grins at her, daring her to make her move.
“If you don’t zip your mouth shut in a few seconds and behave, I’m going to take out *that*”. Aoko threatens. Kaito pales instantly, backtracking. Anything but that.
“... I think I'll take... a nap. " Kaito retreats immediately, knowing he lost the round and attempts to regain his composure and emotions when Aoko mentions "that". He would rather not witness it anytime soon. "Wake me up when class is over. “ Hakuba lets out a small chuckle as Aoko shakes her head, resigned. Kaito lays his head on the desk, deciding to ignore them. Conversations begin again ; he mostly hears Aoko talking with Keiko, who is likely amused from the events earlier. From the corner of his eye, he sees Akako approaching Hakuba and whispering in his ear. Huh.
Kaito closes his eyes and sleeps the rest of the school day off.
‘Aoko is happy today,’ Kaito observes. Since they arrived at the Nakamori residence, Aoko and Nakamori have been talking non stop, playing catch up with their lives. Filling in the gaps and holes caused by the absences. Dinner is made and Kaito is sitting at the table, wondering if he should leave once it becomes awkward to stay.
Eventually the conversation turns to the topic of Kaitou Kid.
“Kid ?” Kaito perks up.
“Yup. That damn bastard. He retired before I even caught him with my own hands !” Nakamori scowls fiercely, slamming his drink down on the dinner table. The table rumbles and drinks in cups slosh violently from the force. Aoko gives her dad a chiding look.
“As expected, Kid sure is amazing, “ Kaito praises, taking a bite of his meal cheerfully. He smirks widely. “A lot of tricks under his sleeve and a gentleman at that. Now that is the kind of magician I want to be -” He then receives a light whack to his head, eliciting a whine and a “ouch”.
“Whose side are you on Bakaito ! All these years and you still support the Kaitou Kid? Ridiculous.” Aoko admonishes.
“But Aoko ! What kind of number 1 fan would I be then?” Kaito winks and waves his fork enthusiastically at her. “The way he outsmarted the police force never gets old. No offense to Nakamori san.”
“Don’t support the criminal Kaito,” Nakamori sighs gruffly, looking like the conversation aged him several years. “At the end of the day, he has to go to jail for his crimes related to property damage, trespassing, and break in.” Nakamori sets his drink aside and resumes eating his meal. “Anyways, I suppose it’s good he retired. He’s a pain in the ass but he’s not that bad. “
Kaito hums in acknowledgement, not saying anything more. As a criminal, Kid looks pretty docile without malicious intentions and works silently in the dark. It could have been worse considering his skills, but at least Kid never fails to return the gems to their owners until he found what he was searching for. Never once did he get caught, which frustrates the Task Force and amuses Kaito greatly on the contrary.
“What will happen to you dad? “ Aoko asks, concerned. Kaito is curious too.
“I suppose I'll remain in the theft division. But the Task Force will be disbanded soon, seeing there is no need for it anymore. “ Nakamori sighs again and wipes his mouth with a napkin, looking conflicted and not excited by the change. He has been chasing Kid diligently with dedication and hard rock stubbornness for many years after all. Kaito respects him.
“Well, I’m glad you get to be home more often. The house is lonely without you. So, no more overseas trips, you better spend some quality time with me !” Aoko says. Nakamori’s mood changes in an instant, followed by laughter. Nakamori chuckles heartily.
“Of course ! “ He ruffles Aoko’s hair fondly. Kaito lets out a small smile at the interaction. It almost makes Kaito envious so he looks away. “We’ll be together. “
Kaito decides it’s time to take his leave. Poker face switched on, he gets up from his chair and heads for the door, waving back. “Thank you for the meal ! It was delicious. I’ll be heading back home.”
“Wait, Kaito”. Nakamori calls out suddenly. Kaito stops. Nakamori says in a fatherly tone, “You’re also welcome to come over and spend time with us. We may not be related by blood, but I care for you as my son. Don’t forget that.“
“That’s right ! Aoko says. “If Kaito dares to forget that, I’ll whack you into shape with my mop !”
Kaito laughs. The warm feeling from earlier in the day returns, lightening his posture. “Okay, Okay, I’ll keep it in mind. Geez, both of you can be scary. I'm leaving !”
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Of course a crime scene happened during their hang out. What are the chances?
After examining each piece of evidence found, Shinichi walks to Megure and discusses the deductions he arrived at. Nearby, Sonoko and Ran are sitting on a bench in front of a mall store, chatting but also observant at the proceedings before them. They weren’t able to meet the fortune teller unfortunately. Shinichi wonders if they ran away at the sign of crime.
After the suspect is apprehended, he turns to his friends, grateful for their presence and waiting.
“ Ah I see the devil of light is still hard at work dispelling the deceptive darkness,” A voice rings out in his ear. Shinichi jumps. He looks around to locate the voice. When he can’t find her, he is about to give up when he feels a tap on his shoulder. He flinches away and swirls around to face the girl. The girl smiles widely, wearing a robe with a hood on that obscures her face. Behind her is a servant, also wearing a similar robe with a hood. Shinichi shudders at the sight.
What in the world? Shinichi is starting to be creeped out.
“Would you like a fortune telling devil of light? Special discount for you.”
“Um, no thanks?” Shinichi declines and turns to walk away but is stopped again by another tap on the shoulder. The girl stares at her intently like she’s looking into his soul.
“Are you certain?” Her gaze pierces into Shinichi. “Your answer will determine how fate takes your course.”
“I pave my own path,” Shinichi says curtly. “Now, if you will excuse me -”
“If that is your answer despite having lived a false identity, you will come to regret your words.” Shinichi pauses in his steps, surprised by her words. “The dreams will continue to shroud you in darkness for eternity.”
Now isn’t that interesting.
“Who are you?” Shinichi asks. He’s not going to be affected just because of an ominous premonition.
“Just a simple fortune teller.” The girl smiles again beneath her hood. Bullshit. “If you want to seek answers, it all begins here. “ The girl lifts something from her robe, pulling out a rose.
Not red or yellow or pink roses. But blue. Shinichi looks at her curiously.
“Will you accept? Again, your choice determines the future that may or may not exist.”
Shinichi feels the foreboding words. Reluctantly, he takes the blue rose. A blue rose is full of unforeseen possibilities, good or bad. He blinks at the thought, wondering where the thought came from. He looked up to ask more, but she was gone, including the servant, as if she never was here. He stares at the blue rose, lost of what to do.
“Where did the fortune teller go?” Sonoko and Ran came up to him, noticing his distant face.
“Looks like she’s gone,” Ran surmises after doing a quick search of the premises.
“Aw man, no fair ! “ Sonoko groans. “Hey Shinichi ! Why didn’t you call for us when you met her?!”
“What? She was the one who suddenly approached me out of nowhere.” Shinichi crosses his arms, frowning.
“Geez. You weren’t interested in meeting her but somehow she took interest in you. Your popularity never gets old doesn’t it,” Sonoko sighs.
“Maybe we’ll get another chance one day Sonoko,” Ran says to defuse the situation. “Although it was short, thanks for hanging out with us Shinichi !”
Shinichi hums in thanks. Deciding to leave the strange interaction behind, he heads home with his friends.
When he got home, he put the blue rose in a vase in his bedroom. He stares at the rose for a moment, his mind blank. Then looks away, deciding to get his rest instead. While he slept, the blue rose emits a bright blue light around its petals, shining brightly before fading.
- 8. 20XX
When Kaito wakes up the following morning, he is not expecting to be in an unfamiliar room.
Where am I? Kaito suppresses his yawn, and then proceeds to stretch his arms widely to get his body jump started. He examines the room in a lackadaisical manner, rather calm about the whole situation. Calm is one way to describe it. Maybe the weird situation has not caught up to him but the poker face all these past years sure is damn useful. Kaito grimaces at the thought.
He might have a mid-life crisis once his mind catches up. Emphasis on might.
Anyways, the one thing that stood out most in the room is….
Books.
Lots and lots of books.
On the right side of the room, there are books on the desk, above and beside said desk, and even more books stacked in front of the bed and - Kaito stops right there. Just how many books can this mystery bookworm guy or gal have? When Kaito turns around, he has the urge to facepalm when he sees there is a bookshelf behind him ; some of the fancy, thicker books are labeled as Sherlock Holme s mystery crime volume editions . At this point, he can also expect books to fall from above the ceiling to fall on his head and he would not be surprised.
Kaito snorts at the thought. Hakuba would love it here. Except Hakuba is not here, but Kaito is. By now, he should maybe consider he got kidnapped for lords know what. It does not appear he is in danger however. His hands are free. He can move around. The room cannot be more sus than it appears to be. His “bookworm kidnapper” isn’t here either.
Or, or, this can be all one wild dream that Kaito is hallucinating in his dream.
Kaito groans, flopping back down in bed. Later. Later, he’ll get out of bed.
But where the fuck am I?