Archive of Our Own ^beta

Logically, Nakamori knew that KID had many fans. And with many, he meant absurd amounts of them. Hundreds— No, thousands, if one counted the ones all over the globe. And logically, he also knew that while most of them were respectful and good people ( aside from the whole being a fan of a thief thing , but even Nakamori had to admit that KID’s ‘shows’ were brilliant —) , not all of them would be. 

Somehow, he hadn’t truly realised it until a woman in her early thirties managed to sneak into the museum and revealed herself right when the Phantom Thief appeared, only to start talking about how she would shag him in explicit detail. 

Evidently, KID hadn’t either, seeing as he had dropped his card gun without even noticing after about ten seconds into the woman’s rant in favour of gaping at her like a fish while getting increasingly red in the face. 

Nakamori would have laughed at his expression if he could get his jaw to close again because holy shit those were some explicit fucking DETAILS— 

“Ma’am—“, Kid sputtered, apparently having figured out how to use his voice again, although it sounded weirdly squeaky. “Ma’am—  please stop I am a MINOR—“ 

The whole room, including KID himself, froze in union. The woman stopped talking. You would be able to hear a pin drop. 

“U-Uh, I mean—“, KID immediately said, voice slowly loosing its high pitch (a Teenagers voice sounded like that— ) as he apparently regained control over his words. “I’m… married. Is what I meant to say.” 

“…Oh my god.”, The woman said, looking absolutely mortified. Which, yeah, fair, but why didn’t she LOOK LIKE THAT WHEN SAYING THAT STUFF EARLIER— “I flirted with a teenager. Oh shit—“ 

“I’m not a teenager.”, KID said, voice now completely back to its normal , smooth tone. It sounded really faked, all of a sudden. “Just a slip of the tongue.” 

“Oh my GOD—“, The woman was still freaking out, apparently not believing the thief’s words any more than everyone else. “I am— SO SORRY I— Oh GOD, PLEASE forget I ever said anything I can’t even begin to express how DISGUSTING I FEEL—“ 

“WELL YOU SHOULD!”, Nakamori shouted, having finally figured out how words worked again. “You— You flirted with a child and went on a explicit fucking RANT on how you would— 

“I KNOW, I’M SO SORRY—“ , the woman screeched, looking absolutely distraught. 

“It’s okay, because I’m not a minor.”, KID cut in, some of the red still remaining on his face. “Like I said, I just misspoke—“ 

He went ignored.

“GO! GO APOLOGISE RIGHT NOW!”, Nakamori shouted, pointing a finger to where KID was standing. The thief in question waved his hands, looking more out of depth than when surrounded by a small army of police officers. 

“Seriously, It’s no problem—“ 

“I’M SO SORRY FOR FLIRTING WITH YOU AND SAYING ALL THAT, KID, I’M A HORRIBLE HUMAN BEING AND I DESERVE TO ROT IN HELL I’M SORRY!!”, the woman shouted so fast it was barely understandable, then sprinted out of the room. 

KID stared after her, looking more unsure than Nakamori had ever seen him. 

And suddenly, everything was really awkward. 

“I’m not— I’m a adult.”, KID said after a few moments of nobody moving. And as much as Nakamori wanted to believe him—

A lot of things suddenly made a lot of sense. 

“Anyways.”, KID continued, voice back to being smooth and calm except there was a unfamiliar feeling of pure and utter awkward present. “I still have the gem, and I’ll… go now.” The end of the sentence was awkward and sloppy and so unlike KID that it took Nakamori a few moments to register what the thief was saying. 

“Ghhhhhh—“, he growled. “Men— GET HIM!!”

The dogpile that followed wasn’t their best, as only half of the officers actually moved, and the ones that did were far too flustered to properly focus. KID got away within seconds. 

— 

As much as he would like to pretend the whole situation never happened, ( both because of the sheer second hand embarrassment he felt whenever he thought about that woman and the implications of KID being a literal kid—) Nakamori unfortunately could not do that. 

Because it just… explained so much. So many small things. 

KID’s disguises always being in a certain height range ( which was that of a teenager how did they not notice that?! ) ,  the thief’s blatant favouritism of any Teenage ( or child ) Detectives ( because they were his age oh my GOD—), even the small things like his tricks— because No sane adult would use THAT many glitter bombs— 

Fuck, Hakuba Saguru had done that analysis and Nakamori had still refused to believe it. What was the age range again? Fifteen to Seventeen? 

Fuck! 

Fifteen to Seventeen! That was so young! Basically a baby! His daughter was seventeen!! 

It had seemed so absurd at the time. After all, Kaitou KID had been active for over ten years. He would have had to be a child when he started! Absolute nonsense— that had Nakamori told himself. 

Except. 

Except there was a eight year gap in which the thief had disappeared. Those had been dark years for him. Kaitou KID had been his to catch. He had been his rival, almost his friend. 

And then he… disappeared. 

No notice, no grand goodbye… Nothing. He just hadn’t appeared to his announced heist. Nakamori hadn’t even thought anything of it at the time— Fuming that the thief had wasted their time like that! He had assumed that the man got sick or something similar, and waited for the next notice. 

Except there had been no next notice.  ( One year. It had taken him one year to stop hoping for one.) 

Everything had felt pointless after that.

Who wanted to chase after regular thieves or diffuse hostage situations after that? After getting to witness KID take the impossible and make it seem easy over and over again? 

Hunting Kaitou KID had felt magical. 

And then he had left. 

It took four years for Nakamori to really… process that. And accept that the thief he had loved chasing had retired for a normal, safer life. Heck, Nakamori had even pondered if maybe he had settled down and started a family! 

( And he had very carefully not thought about the fact that the thief he knew wouldn’t just give up his nighttime activities like that, and the fact that he had meant something much, much darker. ) 

And then, KID came back. Wearing a damn creepy mask (like shit that thing had been terrifying—) and eerily silent except for the occasional huff or harsh breathing, not even a grand return or anything, he’d just came back, as if nothing had happened. 

And— And looking back, there was no way that had been Kaitou KID. 

He had been too caught up in the rush of KID’s return —in the relief and anger and excitement he had felt— to notice it but… that hadn’t been KID. 

The tricks were too easy, there had been none, not a single bit , of playful banter and even the Imposters movements had felt stiff and just wrong. 

And that’s what it had been— An Imposter.  ( Curiously enough, the only Imposter KID had ever let get away with it. All the others had been arrested during or after during heists.) 

But then KID, the real KID, had been on that roof instead of the creepy masked one, full of playful banter and impossible magic tricks and— 

And Nakamori had been too relieved to question why KID was smaller than him when before, he had so clearly been taller and just— broader. 

And now he couldn’t ignore it anymore. Couldn’t deny it. 

The Kaitou KID he had hunted eight years ago was dead (although if literally or metaphorically remained to be seen—) and this one had replaced him for almost a year without anyone noticing. 

And Nakamori couldn’t find it in himself to be bothered, because this KID so clearly knew the former KID well enough to appear only when someone impersonated ( and thus dishonoured ) him and imitated his predecessor almost ( because why had Nakamori never questioned the childish snickers that had replaced the amused laughs—)  perfectly. 

And that meant that this KID wasn’t an Imposter. 

He was the previous KID’s successor, and Nakamori had spent his fair share of of nights hunting KID ( Over 200 heists and 221 stolen gems, and that wasn’t even counting the ones before the eight year gap, holy shit! What even was this kids life—) 

No, this KID wasn’t the KID he had spent his youth hunting but— But he was still KID. 

Maybe even more so than his predecessor. 

— 

After the reports on latest heist were finished up ( and any mentions of that woman’s mere existence were pushed to the back of their minds where they could comfortably forget the whole event) the KID Task Force held a meeting to discuss their newest information. 

“So.” Officer Nekori started after two minutes of unsure silence in which no one knew what to say. “I know you all absolutely despised my theory ten years ago but—” 

Groans erupted around the table, and someone even banged their head against it. 

“— But I think now that we know the current KID is a minor I think—“ 

“No, Nekori-san.”, Nakamori grunted, face in his hands. “We’ve been over this— KID is not the Phantom Lady’s lover. Just— No.” 

“But it makes so much sense!”, the Officer cried out with the voice of someone who had repeated the same sentence at least a thousand times every past year. “KID first appeared at the Phantom Lady’s last heist, which is why we assumed that she was his mentor! But like I’ve been saying for years, ever since we suspected they were somewhere around the same age, they were in love! And the reason the Original KID hung up his mantel as master thief is—“ 

“— Is his supposed marriage to the Phantom Lady and them starting a family.”, Officer Hideki, the one who banged his head at the table, finished for him. “Yes, Nekori-san, it’s not like you didn’t mention this at every single meet up we had over the past eight years—“ 

“But think about it!”, The man demanded. “Eight years ago— If we’re going with the youngest suspected age, the current KID would have been seven, or nine, at most! Considering his age and skill— He would have had to been young when he started practicing magic! And the whole transition from KID 1 to KID 2 was flawless, so he’s at least as good as the Original!” 

“Oh my god.”, Officer Nirou whispered, looking mortified. “He’s right. KID, both of them, are professionals— And looking at the perfect imitation KID 2 can do of KID 1, they have had to have knows each other for a long time. KID 1 obviously taught KID 2, but for that to be possible, considering KID 2’s age—“ 

“He would have had to be KID 2’s father, or at least a close family friend to be able to interact with him that much!”, Officer Nekori finished, sounding absolutely excited.  

“… Holy Shit.”, someone muttered. “He was right all along.” 

While officers all round the room murmured their agreements and own extension of the theory, Nakamori was staring at the table and trying very hard not to have a minor breakdown because wasn’t the whole thing with KID being a Teenager enough of a revelation for a day— no, a WEEK? 

And now you’re telling him Officer Nekori was right all along? Not not only that, but that the Phantom Lady was the current KID’s mother? He could only be grateful that KID had (as far as they knew) never gotten hit by one of the occasional stray bullets flying around his heists, or else that woman would have ended them—

Wait. 

Wait a goddamn second—

“The— THE BULLETS!”, Nakamori blurted out. Judging by the horrified faces of his coworkers, they understood what he meant without any more explanation. 

Good, because he had temporarily forgotten how to form other thoughts than fuck and bullets, because someone had been shooting bullets at at teenager—

“Oh fuck.”, Officer Haruto whispered, but it echoed through the whole room. “Someone has been shooting at a teenager.” 

That statement was the crack in the wall made of shock, and the flood wave of  sheer and utter panic crashed into the room, and it did that loudly. 

“— The bullets—“ 

“Who is shooting those—?!” 

“Did we ever even see one of the people who did—!?” 

“Shit were those coincidences or—“ 

Meanwhile Nakamori’s brain was filtering through hours of heist memories, specifically the ones where the gem owners had insisted on using lethal traps what had they been THINKING— 

“—has he ever been hit? Do we know anything about—“ 

“Oh my god Singapore!”, someone chocked, making the whole room quieting in horror. 

Because The Singapore Incident(TM) had been bad enough for the Task Force stuck in Japan and unable to do anything before (seriously, KID? A Killer?! That was about as likely as him getting caught—) , but now? 

Now they knew that the non-violent, playful thief that had been shot because he was framed for murder was a teenager! A literal kid!

And— And how had he even gotten to Singapore?! Had his parents been there with him? Either way, why didn’t they help him clear his name or at least make him sit out the whole shit that came afterwards because of the?? Literal?? Bullet wound??

“So.”, Officer Nekori said, tone vastly different from the first time he had spoken. “Who are we charging with child neglect and endangerment?” 

— 

As it turned out, suing the parents of a Phantom Thief was, to no one’s surprise, impossible. Surprisingly, the problem wasn’t said Phantom Thief being a Phantom Thief no one knew the identity of, but rather the fact that a) they lacked decisive evidence that he was a minor and b) they lacked any evidence of the neglect and endangerment beyond ‘wild speculations caused by sleep deprivation’ ( They may be sleep deprived, but that doesn’t mean they’ll make up stuff like that!! )

They would ask the thief themselves, but as it was, said thief hadn’t announced a heist in a over a week and was also likely still trying to convince them that he was an adult like that even made any sense. 

And also, they sincerely doubted KID would answer honestly if there was a problem.  

The Task Force, to be fair, wasn’t sure. While they were now certain that the current KID was the first ones successor, it was also completely possible that the First KID had just been a mentor to him, and that his parents were completely unaware of their sons nighttime activities.  

Or that they, for whatever reason, just hadn’t noticed. But seeing as KID was all over the news wherever he went, it seemed unlikely. 

But still. They couldn’t be sure. And it would be really awkward to ask a Phantom Thief about their home life while chasing them around a building for stealing priceless gems. 

So the Task Force settled for the long game instead. 

—

Nothing really changed during heists.

Everything was different, but nothing changed. They still hunted down KID with a burning passion and they still set up their traps and made their plans. They didn’t mention anything about the whole Flirting Incident (TM) , so KID didn’t either. ( They hadn’t really been planning on doing it either way, but just seeing the way KID seemed genuinely nervous , even if that nervousness was hidden behind usual smiles and playful banter, at his next heist was enough to erase any doubts.) 

And, well, if their traps included way less lethal electric shocks these days, then that was because some officers had concerns about getting shocked themselves. Definitely. 

But that was it. Nothing else changed, because going easy on KID because he was, well, a kid, would be nothing short of insulting. KID may be young, but he was still skilled and he was still KID. 

And their Task Force was already looking incompetent enough without them going easy on the thief for seemingly no reason. 

So they still rushed at him, still set up traps that would make a lesser thief break down in tears ( they sincerely hoped KID had never broken down in tears over any of their traps, but that didn’t seem very like KID anyway so it wasn’t really a concern ) and they still tried as hard as ever to catch him. 

But that didn’t mean they weren’t playing the long game. 

They couldn’t outright ask about anything, neither KID’s age nor his home life, but it wasn’t like that was the only option. They settled for subtle questioning instead. 

— 

“So, KID, how’s it going?”, Officer Sasaki said conversationally. Kid looked up from where he was shortcutting the cables for the electricity of the building— Damnit, they should’ve had more guards than just him there— and without missing a beat replied—

“Very well, actually!”, KID said cheerfully as ever. “Though I’m unsure what you’re trying to achieve by asking about my progress with the electricity when you can see me doing it!” 

“I didn’t mean the electricity.”, Sasaki clarified. “I meant like, in life! How’s sch—“ SHIT  “— the job going?” KID froze for a second, so as a distraction Sasaki quickly tacked on : “Do you have a job? I honestly can’t imagine anything that would fit you— Except maybe Magician? But that’d be a bit too obvious, wouldn’t it?”  

KID relaxed the more Sasaki talked, seemingly not realising that Sasaki basically never talked this much. But then again, how would he know? It wasn’t like they knew each other. 

“Well, I can’t very well tell you that!”, KID said in his usual playful tone.“But do feel free to guess! I’m curious what a experienced officer like you could come up with!” 

“Well, like I said, Magician seems a bit too on the nose—” KID twitched at that. “—So I’m thinking something similar like that. Something on a stage. I’d say actor, but that would make hiding your face a lot harder, so maybe… Musician? Or maybe the reason you do try so hard to hide your face is because you’re a famous actor—“ 

Later, Sasaki realised that KID had not answered his question at all, and instead deflected it in that playful way of his, making it seem completely natural. He wished he was mad about it. 

But honestly, he was too impressed for that. 

—

“HEYA KID!”, Officer Nekori shouted when the thief appeared on the glass case the gem was placed inside of out of seemingly nowhere. “HOW ARE YOU DOING?!” 

“Very well!”, KID answered immediately. The Thief had gotten used to their new habit of asking him about his day very quickly. “I’m glad to see you in good health too, Nekori-san. Now if you don’t mind…” A snap of the fingers, and the gem was gone, having reappeared into KID’s hand. “…I’ll be taking this beauty on a stroll with me!” 

“STOP FLIRTING WITH GEMSTONES, KID! IT’S WEIRD!!”, Officer Nekori yelled while dutifully running after the phantom thief. 

“I’m not flirting with the gem, I’m just admiring its beauty!” 

True, it was a very beautiful sapphire. It shimmered blue-ish in KID’s hand even with only little light falling onto it, and the light show it caused on the wall reminded him of an aquarium.

It was definitely a very pretty gem. 

But still—

“WELL IT STILL SOUNDS LIKE YOU’RE FLIRTING WITH THE GEM!!”, Nekori shouted, raising his taser and squeezing an eye shut for better aim. “SO STOP THAT, IT’S WEIRD!” 

“Your wish is my command!”, KID bowed, then there was a puff of smoke—

— And he was gone. 

Nekori sighed. 

—

“Hey KID, so, how’s your wife?”, the tied up Officer Hakui, covered in glitter and bright, glowing paint, asked one day. 

KID tripped on whatever he was using to walk on air. “Ex…cuse me?” 

“Your wife!”, Hakui beamed, smiling innocently. “You did say you were married at that heist with the daring lady—“ 

“YES!”, KID burst out. “Yes, I did say that, didn’t I?” 

“You did!”, Hakui confirmed, eyes unnaturally wide. “So, how’s your wife?” Hakui paused. “Or husband? I don’t judge—“ 

“Oh, wouldn’t you look at the time!”, KID said, vaguely gesturing to a wall Hakui knew for a fact fact did not have a clock— 

There was a clock. Of course there was a clock. KID would carry around a clock for something like this. 

“I extend my apologies to you—“ Sometimes Hakui wondered if KID practiced talking like that in front of a mirror or if it came naturally. “— but it seems I am needed elsewhere! I will see you at my next heist, officer!” 

Then KID used his cloak to cover his body and disappeared into thin air. 

— 

Nakamori stared at Officer Ida, who was muttering furiously into his desk while gripping his hair. Nakamori could vaguely make out the words “study” “how” and … “how” again. He was saying “how” a lot, actually, and obviously having some kind of breakdown. 

When Officer Nirou had told him about an urgent emergency that he needed to attend to right now in this moment, this really hadn’t been what he imagined. 

Nakamori wondered if this had to so with KID’s newest heist notice. Somehow, everything seemed to be because of the phantom thief these days. 

“…Oi, Ida.”, Nakamori said after a helpless five minutes of thinking about what to say to start this conversation. “What’s going on with y—“ 

“It’s Exam Season, Ginzo.” , Officer Ida said, sounding absolutely devastated. “I know that for a fact because my son is studying all day and he’s absolutely stressed out!!”  Nakamori supposed that might be true. 

Aoko had also seemed stressed and slightly sleep deprived these past days, but why was that such a problem— 

“— And- And he announced a heist, Nakamori! A heist!” Oh…OH. “He should be studying, not spending his time planning a master-level thievery because he’s trying to honour someone who he’s better as anyways!!” 

Nakamori was seeing the problem here. Suddenly, he felt the need to sit down and mutter furiously into his desk while gripping on his hair too. But alas, he had at least some self control, and was also the leader of this Task Force, so he was responsible for making sure Ida didn’t give himself a heart attack. 

Damn Kaitou KID! 

“Now, Ida, I’m sure it’s just gonna be the one heist!”, Nakamori said, trying to sound like he actually believed that. “KID is a very responsible kid, I’m sure he wouldn’t put heists over grades!” 

That argument actually made sense! Kid was very responsible with everything he did, whether it be returning stolen gems he hadn’t left behind at every full moon like a clockwork or making sure that no one got seriously hurt at his Heists. 

“He didn’t last year!”, Officer Ida said, head on the table in despair. “He just kept going normally!! Probably so that we wouldn’t notice anything! His grades must be so terrible! How is he supposed to get into a good college and get a job like that!?”

“—Now, Ida, I’m sure you’re exaggerating—“ 

“He’s such a bright kid! We know that because he plans his heists in no more than a few hours sometimes, but he’s destroying his future like this! He doesn’t even plan his heists primarily on weekends or anything, noooo, he just does them whenever! He must be so exhausted in the mornings, and then he goes to school!” 

Nakamori couldn’t help it anymore. He slid down onto a chair too, though staring at the ceiling instead of the table. 

“You’re right, Ida. It’s horrible! I always feel like shit after KID heists because of the working hours, and I’m not the one who has to solve math equations afterwards!”

“I know, right?”, Ida said, staring at him in despair. “Math is hard. So hard. I couldn’t even imagine doing math with only like three hours of sleep.” 

Nakamori thought of Aoko and Kaito, who he’d both seen going through their math homework within minutes. So perhaps Math was easier these days? Or maybe he was remembering it worse than it had actually been.

But granted, the last time he’d seen the two of them do Math Homework was when they were both in fifth grade. 

“We need to do something.”, Ida said, voice growing determined. “Stop him from doing heists somehow. Or make them easier so he has more time to study or— or something. I don’t know, we just need to do something!”

Ida stood up with a determined look in his eyes—

—and then promptly collapsed onto the floor, reminding Nakamori that the officer had been running on caffeine and two hours of sleep for the past two days. 

They ended up convincing Suzuki to stop challenging the thief for a few weeks with a made up story about a complicated new plan that needed time. That way, the amount of KID heists at least lessened to a somewhat reasonable number. 

—

It happened on a heist. Obviously. 

Everything concerning Kaitou KID happened on heists. Either way, it had been the usual heist. Guard the gem, get tricked by Kaitou KID, ‘figure out’ KID’s trick, get double tricked, get the Gem stolen, get shot at by some trigger happy men in black and hide in a closet with an internationally wanted Thief. 

Now, two of those things weren’t normal. Not normal at all. Nakamori never even thought they would happen. Sure, there were reports of bullets occasionally flying around at KID heists, but the Task Force had figured those were the misguided attempts of uninvolved officers trying to help. 

Apparently not, seeing as KID had dodged the bullets for himself and dragged Nakamori around with him in a way that indicated experience, called the leader of the shooters by his name and evaded them in a way similarly to how he did with the police while barely breaking a sweat. 

Hell, Nakamori himself was sweating like crazy, stuck in this small closet with a phantom thief. Surprisingly, the problem wasn’t said Phantom Thief, just about everything else about this situation. 

Outside, Nakamori could hear the muffled sounds of steps and the shuffling of feet. 

KID had stuffed them both into the closet while the Trigger Happy Men In Black(TM) were distracted by a smoke bomb and a bunch small marbles to slip on (A trick KID had used for the Task Force before— Nakamori had to admit it was funny when you weren’t the one slipping and looking really damn incompetent.)

The smoke bomb had lasted for barely ten seconds. 

In barely ten seconds, KID had somehow moved both himself and Nakamori completely down the hall and into a closet inside a locked room. 

While barely breaking a sweat and with that stupid childish grin still on his face. 

So sure, Nakamori was a little ( read : very ) impressed. 

But! 

But that would not stop Nakamori from yelling at him the moment these people left or were arrested because KID had to have planned this beforehand ( because there was no way this whole thing would’ve worked otherwise—) , which meant he knew .  He knew a group of assassins sporting some very real and dangerous guns would show up and shoot at him, and he’d come anyways. 

Nakamori would actually twist his neck. He’d twist his neck and then find himself a witch to raise KID from the dead and check him over for any injuries ( It was too damn dark in this damn closet so he couldn’t see if KID had been hit— ) and then yell at him for his stupidity because oh my god KID what the hell were you thinking?!—

The door to the room was thrown open, and any thoughts in Nakamori’s brain vanished, replaced by completely silence. There were footsteps, getting louder and louder as the person walked into the middle of the room. The rustling of clothes indicated they were looking around. 

Nakamori pulled his gun. 

His taser, actually. Real guns had been banned from KID heists after a Officer, groggy from sleeping gas, had pulled the wrong weapon and almost shot KID right in the head. It had not been a pleasant experience for anyone involved, so, to erase the risk, lethal weapons, including guns, had just been banned from KID heists. 

There was familiar click, signalling KID’s card gun being readied. 

The Footsteps grew louder again, until they were right in front of the closet. Nakamori held his breath, and judging the fact he couldn’t hear KID’s breathing, the Phantom Thief likely did the same. Either that or he just didn’t breathe, which didn’t make sense, and why had he even thought about that??

He was a bit panicked. A tiny bit. But could anyone blame him? The most dangerous thing he’d done in over a year was hunt a guy who returned what he stole and was also notorious for not being violent and also a damn teenager, so naturally he was a bit freaked out about the guy with a gun just a closet door away. 

Nakamori could hear him breathe—

Footsteps. 

A creaking sound. 

The door being slammed shut. 

Nakamori sagged against the closet wall, breathing out a sigh of absolute and utter relief. 

Holy shit.

He was once again so glad he was part of the KID Task Force. He had not missed the action of a more dangerous job. 

KID remained still for a few more moments, before there was the sound of clothes rustling and—

Light flooded his eyes as KID gave the closet door a light shove, before moving out of the small room quickly. Nakamori couldn’t help but notice that his steps were heavier than before. Not as light and quiet as usually. 

As Nakamori quickly moved out of the door himself, he heard something drop onto the floor. He could see a small red spot on the floor right in front of the closet. 

A drop of blood. 

Nakamori’s eyes never snapped up faster, and he rushed over to KID before the Thief could make his escape out of the door. In the well lit room, Nakamori could clearly see the red staining KID’s lower, left arm. 

“KID!”, He called out without thinking, making the Phantom Thief turn around to face him. That damn cocky grin was still on his face, not a single bit of the pain he no doubt felt visible on his face. “You’re— You got hit.” 

“I’m perfectly fine, Keibu!”, KID said airily, like he didn’t have a care in the world. As if to prove his words, he raised his arms in a calming manner, as if he didn’t have a bullet wound in one of them. 

“You’re not!”, Nakamori refuted. “There’s a bullet in your arm! In what world is that fine?” 

“In mine!”, KID answered cheerfully. “So there’s no need to—“ He could not believe this kid—

“Hospital.”, Nakamori said, not caring for the tone of this stupid, arrogant , teenager Phantom Thief— “We are going to a hospital right now.” His tone left no room for arguments. KID still disagreed. 

“There’s no need for that!”, KID said in that stupid carefree way of his. Was this kid arrogant or just stupid? “I’m perfectly able to take care of this myself!”

“I don’t care if you can take care of it yourself.”, Nakamori growled. “It could get infected or—or something!”

“Or something?”, KID asked, raising an amused eyebrow. 

“Don’t try to distract me, you little bastard.”, he hissed. “You’re going to a hospital. I’ll personally make sure no one tries anything, so don’t even start with that. You can even disguise yourself if that makes you feel better! I don’t care as long as you’re going to A DAMN HOSPITAL!” His voice had raised at the end. 

KID froze and it took Nakamori a second to figure out why— Then Nakamori himself froze because there were still the shooters—

Nothing happened. 

“Hm, seems Snake and his band of wild animals have already gone about their ways!”, KID said, stating the obvious. And completely deflecting from answering Nakamori’s earlier outburst. 

“Hospital.”, Nakamori just said, unimpressed. 

KID was quiet for a moment, likely pondering his options and planning about ten ways he could escape this room easily. Nakamori’s hand tensed around the taser still in his hand. He didn’t want to, but if KID wouldn’t go any other way—

“I can’t go, Nakamori-san.”, KID said eventually, voice careful. “They’ll check the hospitals for anyone with a gunshot wound in their arm.” 

Well, shit. 

Nakamori wasn’t sure whether KID was making this up or if that group really had connections that allowed them to search Hospitals like that, but he was inclined to believe the later.

KID wasn’t the type of person to exaggerate about something like that. 

“Who the hell are these guys?”, Nakamori muttered, before shaking his head. That didn’t matter right now. He turned back to KID. “Sit down. I’ll get a first aid kit and do it myself.” He had attempted to memorise were those were located in this building, but hadn’t managed to remember more than a few. Luckily, one should be just a few doors down the hall— 

“I thank you for the offer,” KID interrupted his thoughts. “But I really do know how to take care of this myself.” Nakamori immediately opened his mouth to argue— “Or rather, I know someone who’s quite experienced in taking care of bullet wounds. I’ll be just fine, and you’ll see me next heist as if nothing ever happened.” 

It sounded like it was a promise. 

Nakamori forced himself to relax. 

KID…didn’t want to be here. While Nakamori himself knew he wouldn’t try anything, KID couldn’t . KID might trust them to some extent, but bullet wounds were not included in that extent. 

And as much as he wanted to force KID to sit down and let himself get help— 

That could fracture the trust KID placed in them. 

And also, Nakamori knew that even with one arm bleeding, KID could still easily make his escape. The only reason he hadn’t now was because— because… 

He wasn’t sure, actually.  ‘Snake’ and his shooters were gone. Nakamori’s men were searching the building. Staying here was risky for KID, but he had done so anyways just because Nakamori had asked him to stop—

The only reason KID was still in this room was because he had played along with Nakamori as not to worry him. 

The only reason KID was still there was because Nakamori was worried about him, and KID, with his stupid bleeding heart, stayed to make sure Nakamori knew he would be fine. 

But KID didn’t want to be here, and he wouldn’t let himself get help from Nakamori or his men. So the fastest way to make sure KID got medical treatment was to… let him go. 

That went against about everything Nakamori was. Letting go Kaitou KID— Nakamori might as well have asked his brain to stick his hand into a meat grinder. Chasing after KID was an instinct, at this point. Something engraved in his brain over the years of hunting the thief. 

It shouldn’t be easy to ignore it but—

But as KID slipped away through the windows with a shouted “Have a good Night, Keibu!” , Nakamori found he didn’t have any difficulties at all. 

— 

The next day, Nakamori stepped into the KID Task Force Meeting Room, arms full of the files of KID heists. His men, who had been idly chattering as they waited for him, immediately forgot their conversations if favour of greeting him.

No doubt they were curious what this was about. While Meetings after KID Heists weren’t unusual, the Inspector making everyone go home early the night before so they would be properly rested for it was, which likely set off some alarm bells in his mens minds. 

Nakamori replied to their greetings by nodding and sat down on his chair. He dropped the files, making the table groan under the weight. 

“This,” He said. “Are all the KID heists at which witnesses or we ourselves reported to have heard gunfire or saw bullets flying around.” He said, mentioning to the files. He then took the eleven laying on top. “These are the ones where we know who was shooting. And these—” He gestured to some empty space next to the files. “— are the ones investigated.” 

The Officers in the room frowned, and concerned whispers broke out quickly. The quiet discussions were soon hushed by the Inspector. 

“Last Night, while I off chasing KID by myself, the two of us ran into a group of eleven men, all carrying guns. “ There were some gasps around the room. “KID greeted them like he knew them, and even called the leader by his name,  ‘Snake’.” Nakamori continued. “Snake then started talking about KID not ‘getting away this time’ , and his men shot at us.” 

More shocked gasps.  

“You weren’t hit, right Inspector?!”, Officer Ida yelled. The Inspector shook his head, causing sighs of relief around the room despite the fact that they’d all seen him just fine yesterday. 

“I was perfectly fine, but KID— KID was shot in the arm.” More gasps around the room. There were a lot of those this meeting, and that for good reason. “He refused going to a hospital—“ 

“That bloody idiot!”, Officer Nirou shouted, hitting the table. “That’s not something he can just ignore! It could get infected or— or something!”

“That’s what I said.”, Nakamori said, sighing. “But KID wouldn’t go. I was completely prepared to knock him out with a taser if that’s what it took.” There were nods and muttered agreements around the table. “But after KID gave his reasoning for not wanting to go, he … fled before I could catch him.” 

“You mean there was a reasoning besides arrogance and carelessness?”, Officer Haruto asked, a doubtful eyebrow raised, and completely ignoring the implied I let him go. Despite his tone, his eyes shone with concern. 

“Yes.”, Nakamori confirmed. “Apparently, the group trying to kill him has enough influence to search hospitals, and do so after getting a shot at him.” 

“Fuck.”, someone cursed, which Nakamori thought describe the whole situation pretty well. 

“And I have reason to believe they have power over the police too.”, Nakamori said gravely. “Even after we reported gunshots firing over and over again, no one ever investigated it. Like the orders to do so just vanished.” 

“Double Fuck.”, the officer from before said. 

“Double Fuck, indeed.”, Nakamori sighed.

“What do we do?”, Officer Sasaki asked, voice eager and full of the urge to help. 

“I’m not sure if we would be able to take arrest a organisation this big without any outside help….”, Officer Fukuta said, hand stroking his chin in thought. “But we might be able to catch the group the Inspector mentioned in the act and arrest them, at least.” 

“My thoughts exactly.”, Nakamori nodded. “Which is why our KID Trap Planning will be on a hiatus, and our new Snake Trap Planning will take its place.” He leaned forwards on the table, hands meeting in front of his face, making him feel not unlike some cartoon villain.

“So, Men, how do we catch a group of Trigger Happy Shooters?”  

—

Step 1 , Figure out more about said group of trigger happy shooters. 

While subtlety and discretion were sorely needed for Operation Get-Closer-to-KID-to-Help-Him, it was not needed for Operation Find-And-Beat-Up-Arrest-Snake. On the contrary, actually. KID knew that Nakamori knew about a group of people shooting at him, so KID also knew that the Task Force knew by sheer association. 

Thus, not asking about it would just make KID suspicious, and since subtly asking would be met with deflections…

“Hey KID!”, Officer Hakui yelled, waving at where KID had somehow gotten onto the roof where the gem was (stupidly, if Hakui may say so. These rich jewellery owners were really damn arrogant sometimes—) kept. “How’s the arm? All healed up?” 

“It sure is, Hakui-san!”, KID replied, much quieter than him. But despite the loud wind, his voice was still carried through the roof for all to hear clearly. Sometimes Hakui wondered if KID really was magic.

“It’s only been two weeks!”, Officer Okotoni shouted as he rushed at KID with around ten other officers. “That’s not possible!” 

“Well…”, KID laughed. “Could a injured arm do this?” Those words were the only warning they got before KID jumped in the air and used his injured arm only to balance himself on Officer Mikumi’s head. 

That— 

Was he stupid?! That would only make his injury heal slower! 

“Stop that, it’s not good your arm!”, Inspector Nakamori said while jumping at KID, who had changed officer to balance on. By the time the Inspector had crashed into poor Officer Nirou, the Thief had already bounced to another officer… and another…and another… 

(Like the damn idiot that he was!! Seriously, that’s no good for injured arms!) 

Until, finally, ending up at the edge of the roof. Ha! Stupid move! The net around the roof may look easy to cut, but it was made completely out of metal! KID had backed himself into a corner! 

“MEN, AT HIM!!”, Came the order from the Inspector Nakamori, and Hakui threw himself at the thief like so many times before. Only this time, he had nowhere to escape! 

There was a lot of pushing and shoving, a few pained yelps where Officers hit each other on accident… then Hakui noticed it. In the pile of dark uniforms…there was no white to be seen. 

After a few hasty moments, Hakui managed to free himself from the pile, and looked around frantically for KID. 

And he was— There! 

Outside the net!! Flying away while the Officers were busy dogpiling! With an injured arm!!

“KID has escaped from the Net!”, Inspector Nakamori was shouting now, having noticed the white figure too. “Helicopters, take chase!!” Then he turned to his men on the ground. “Come on, We’ll follow him from the ground!” 

The Inspectors instruction was met with multiple determined “Yes, Sir!” And “Right away, Sir!” , before the entire Task Force headed for the stairs at the same time. 

In the chaos that followed, no one noticed the unfamiliar officer sneaking away with a snicker. 

—

Okay, they had gotten a bit distracted last time— Nakamori could admit that. KID only using his injured arm for those stunts had them a little preoccupied— But! Nakamori was determined to get some information this time!

To ask KID actual questions, he needed to be able to be in talking distance for more than a few moments at a time. His first idea had been locking himself and KID in a room, but that could get problematic if the Trigger Happy Shooters (TM) decided to make an appearance. 

And besides, they had never managed to trap KID anywhere. 

His second idea had been handcuffs. Handcuff himself to KID, forcing the thief to do his thing while dragging Nakamori along. That way, Nakamori might even be able to stop KID from stealing his next target! 

There was just the teeny tiny problem of KID being able to free himself from any handcuffs they used. They’d discovered that the time their trap involved a massive amounts of chains and handcuffs as a way to trap KID in place. 

It had stopped the Thief for exactly  five seconds.  There hadn’t even been locks on most of them! 

So, Handcuffs were out of the question. But Nakamori had really liked that idea, so he’d informed himself through a quick search of the internet ( He could see why the young people liked it so much, it was very useful for researching illegal cuffing methods—) and then got himself a alternative to handcuffs. He even had Kaito— Kuroba Kaito, not Kaitou KID— test it for him! 

It was perfect, really. 

But as Nakamori had soon discovered, it was only perfect in theory. Being dragged across the floor like a mop had made him realise that and a few other things (like the fact that the museum should mop their floors sometime soon, because he’d been dragged around for less than a minute but his suit had still turned grey from all the dirt from the floor—) 

That hadn’t even been the worst part! While fleeing, KID had jumped through the air with Nakamori flying behind him uncontrollably, which had meant some less than soft landings for the Inspector. ( He was 90% sure KID had been doing that on purpose, as evidenced by his snickering! Probably pay back for the frozen floor they’d set up at that heist a few weeks ago!) 

Summoned up, KID had manhandled both Nakamori and the construction connecting them. Nakamori had been impressed that it hadn’t broken yet, but he’d been a bit more annoyed! He’d hoped it would break soon, if only so his back would be spared from more pain! 

Now though, once again stuck with KID, though this time hanging from the ceiling while his men panicked a far bit underneath them, Nakamori was glad that the construction was so sturdy. 

KID was using his free arm to grab the grappling hock he’d attempted to use, but it seemed the added weight of metal contraption of Death and Nakamori himself had been a bit too much, as the thing broke off the ceiling halfway through them flying, and the only reason they hadn’t crashed onto the floor was the fact that the hook had somehow firmly locked itself in a pipe that was going across the ceiling. 

It didn’t look very stable though. The rope looked like it might snap anytime soon, and while KID was pretty fit, his strength didn’t lie in his literal strength, so he wouldn’t be able to hold them plus the metal contraption for long. 

Underneath them, he could hear his men trying to find an air cushion. He really hoped they’d find one soon. Otherwise they’d both fall to their deaths within the next few minutes. If it was just KID, the thief would probably be able to save himself, but as long as Nakamori and that metal death trap were attached to him… 

Nakamori eyes the metal contraption. 

He could probably reach the side with the hidden button to undo it if he tried, so if nothing else worked—

“Hey, Keibu.” KID said from above him. Nakamori could hear the strain in his voice. “You wanted to ask me something, right?” 

“Hah?”, Nakamori blurted out. “How do you—“ 

“If this metal death trap was for catching me, you would have used one with a key and then made sure to keep it safe!” KID answered cheerfully. “But this one doesn’t have a lock, so it’s likely opened with some kind of trick! You wouldn’t risk that.” 

True. The reason he’d chosen this cuff specifically had been the easy way to remove it, should ‘Snake’ make an appearance again. A key could easily be taken or lost, and having it on his person made it too easily accessible for KID (much as he loathed to admit that) and the thief would’ve escaped in moments. 

That didn’t mean Nakamori would admit it though. 

“Hmpf.” Was all he said. “Well, if you’re offering me questions—“ Above him, KID laughed. “— Then I would have some, yes.” 

“Go right ahead, Keibu! I’m all yours.” Nakamori had the feeling KID had winked at him and he rolled his eyes. 

“Well, for one, why the he— heck—“ Above him, KID snickered. Nakamori ignored him. “— are these people trying to kill you? What the f— what did you do?” 

“Hm, well, nothing really!” KID said with an airy tone. Nakamori raised a disbelieving eyebrow. “No, really! I think it’s more about what I could do rather than what I actually did!” 

How did that make sense? Scared of what KID could do? What, were they afraid he would join the good side some day? As if. The other way around then? That he would join a mafia or something and work against them? That was just as ridiculous! The worst thing Nakamori could imagine KID doing was maybe not returning a gem, but only the first KID had done that. 

This KID didn’t seem to care about riches, which made sense, considering his family was probably still pretty well off from all the gems KID 1 stole. If they really were family, at least. 

“What, they’re scared you’ll attack them or something?”, Nakamori asked. KID laughed. 

“No, not that. Though maybe also that.”, KID replied, voice taking a pondering tome at the end. “It’s definitely about the gems though!” 

So they were scared that KID… would steal the gems before they could? Nakamori actually huffed a laugh at that. 

“They do know you return what you steal, right? All they have to do is wait.” Though Nakamori wondered if KID did something with the things he stole, since no attempts to steal any of them were made after KID returned them. If he didn’t know for sure that they were real, Nakamori would have been worried that they were all fakes or something. 

KID snickered again. “Well,” He chirped. “They’re not the most patient of people, as you’ve seen!”  True. Last time they had started shooting the moment KID dropped the fake of the gem they’d wanted on the floor. 

“Not really, no.”, Nakamori agreed. “I’m still trying to figure out which trick you used to dodge all of the bullets those guys shot.” 

“Hm? Well, you’re not gonna find an answer to that, Keibu!” KID replied, voice amused. 

“Hah? Why not?! I’ll figure it out, just you watch Kaitou KID!!” Nakamori yelled, sticking his finger towards KID. 

“I’m sure,” KID said, even more amused than before. 

“I mean it!”, Nakamori declared. “I have experience!” He might not be as smart as those teenage and child detectives running around who figured out tricks within minutes, but even he was able to figure out most of KID’s tricks with enough time! 

“No amount of experience will help you figure out a trick that doesn’t exist.” KID said simply. Nakamori blinked. 

“Wait— Wait there wasn’t a trick?!”, Nakamori demanded. “Then How did you—“ 

“What can I say, Lady Luck just seems to like me!” KID answered cheerfully. “Actually, I was a bit clumsy that day! Usually they don’t even hit me once.” 

What— He— That stupid— 

“So you just went there knowing they’d be there without any plan, and what— Hoped you wouldn’t get shot?!” , Nakamori demanded, voice raising. 

“To be fair, I didn’t think they’d be there that day.”, Was what KID, the stupid fucking Bastard, replied. “And don’t say it like I’m just entirely dependent on luck. If it was just that, I’d be dead by now.”, KID huffed. “No, no. Skill very much plays a part in it.” 

“That’s not the problem!” Nakamori shouted, slightly hysteric. KID didn’t seem in the least bit fazed by his tone. 

“I think you’re overreacting a little.”, KID deadpanned. “I mean, You’ve shot at me with real bullets too. It’s not like that’s anything new.”  

“What?!” He was beginning to feel like a broken record. “No , I didn’t?!” 

“Tohto Tower was just a dream of mine then?”, KID asked. Nakamori got the feeling he had an unimpressed eyebrow raised, but his mind was a bit busy with more important things. 

Tohto Tower… Tohto Tower? 

“That was the heist with the Emperor’s Gold Seal, right?” Nakamori asked, frowning. Wasn’t that the case were he’d suddenly woken up on a wire spanned between two buildings?!

“Yup!”, KID confirmed. 

“And I shot at you?!” Nakamori asked, bewildered. His men had asked him about the ‘weird way he’d acted’ , but he couldn’t even remember getting there, so he’d brushed it off as the consequences of sleep deprivation but—

“Also Yes!” KID answered, “You even thought you hit me!” At Nakamori’s horrified look, he added. “You didn’t though, don’t worry.” 

“I think I have a right to be worried considering I just figured out I shot at you!” Nakamori yelled, going back to the hysterical voice. Which he’d be embarrassed about later but— “I’m really sorry.” He said, frowning. “I can’t remember anything before waking up on that wire— I’m not sure what was up with me that night.” 

KID was quiet for a few moments, before he finally sighed and said : “It’s fine, Keibu. I think I know who was responsible for that. I’ll make sure it doesn’t happen again.” 

Nakamori frowned. Had that somehow been the work of that organisation too? Or had it been a third, to them still unknown party? Nakamori opened his mouth to ask when—

“Inspector Nakamori! KID!”, came the shouting from below. A look down revealed his men having prepared an air cushion. Nakamori sighed in relief, looking up at KID. 

“You can let go now!”, Nakamori said, silently marvelling at the fact that KID had managed to hold three times his own weight for almost ten minutes. Above him, KID looked down and grinned. 

“No, not quite!” KID said cheekily, and then began swinging around, making both himself and Nakamori gain momentum quickly. 

“KID?!”, Nakamori yelled. “What the hell are you doing—“ 

When they were the highest they could possibly get, KID suddenly let go off the grappling hook, instead using his hand to— press the hidden button on the metal contraption. 

With a click, it opened, and immediately Nakamori felt the wind as he fell down onto the Air cushion. From the angle he fell, he had a perfect view of KID grabbing the Grappling Hook again just in time, stopping his own fall and then pulling himself up. 

The unlocking of the metal contraption had barely took a few seconds. That wasn’t possible if KID had blindly shoved and clicked around while hoping to find the right spot. 

He’d known where the button was the whole time. 

…

That damn Bastard!

—

Step 2 :  Try finding a pattern in The Trigger Happy Shooters appearances. 

After the revelations and near death experience at the latest heist ( And hadn’t that been a terrifying experience?) , The KID Task Force held another meeting, at which Inspector Nakamori shared the new information about the mysterious group he’d received from KID. 

And oh boy, the Task Force had sure been furious. 

Officer Ishida was a calm man by nature. 

He was fatherly, but didn’t have any children as he and his police officer wife were unable to reproduce. They’d though about adoption multiple times, but in they end always decided against it, seeing what the families of officers went through on a day to day basis. 

He stayed level headed in every situation, and angering him wasn’t an easily achievable thing.  He strived to retain a reputation as a trustworthy man and a good officer everyone, even Internationally hunted phantom thieves, could trust with their life. He was patient and kind, giving everyone a chance to feel safe around him. 

And right now … 

He was calm. 

He was completely and utterly calm. 

The mug in his hand had combusted and emptied it’s burning hot contents by itself. It had not been broken by his hand gripping it tightly, no sire. 

The Officers quieting around him were doing so because their words had left them in their rage. They were not staring at him in open shock and concern. They were only slowly backing away from him because he had spilled hot coffee everywhere. 

He was calm. 

“What do you mean, they’re trying to kill him because he might steal something before they do?”, Ishida asked, voice demanding and eyes unnaturally wide and utterly calm. 

“W-Well…”, Inspector Nakamori said, backing away and stuttering because he was still definitely shaken up by the near death experience. “L-Like you said they’re—“ 

“They’re trying to kill a teenager, because said teenager might steal something they want later on?”, Ishida confirmed, voice soft. “Did I understand that correctly?” 

After a few tense moments, Inspector Nakamori nodded hesitantly. “T-That’s correct…” 

Officer Ishida chuckled, completely normal and not deranged, and stood up. 

Softly, he said : “I’ll rip them to fucking shreds.” 

—

After THAT, a break was issued ( breaking their personal record of fastest needed break) , and Officer Ishida got sent back home early to cool off.  He had protested politely, repeating multiple times that he was completely calm, but eventually he’d seen reason and gone home. 

That had single-handedly been the most fucking terrifying experience of Officer  Hakui’s life, like holy shit. He’d actually been afraid Ishida would grab a gun and go one a one man killing spree right then and there. 

It had also been really damn inspiring. 

But alas, Ishida was a married man, so Hakui would refrain from even thinking further about this. 

So, anyways. After a ten minute break spent with the whole Task Force taking turns punching a sand sack and receiving confused and terrified looks from the other Divisions since they were a notoriously harmless group, they were all ( not including Ishida ) back in the meeting room, hands clasped and absolutely ready for this. 

“The second step of plan FBUAS ( Find and Beat Up Arrest Snake ) is a easy one ; we’ll be looking through every file with reported gunfire and find a connection, should there be one, between them to gather more information and be able to predict when the Trigger Happy Shooters will make an appearance.”, Inspector Nakamori explained, receiving serious nods from all around the table. “Any questions?” 

Silence. 

“Perfect. Well then,” The Inspector slid the heavy pile of files next to him onto the middle of the table. Some of them fell down from the momentum. “Let’s begin.” 

Ten Minutes later, Hakui could give a pretty damn long list on the things that weren’t the connection. This included but was not limited too : Gem Type, Gem Colour, Gem Amount, Area the exposition was in, Gem Owner, Gem Hardness and more. 

But Hakui had also noticed a few similarities. Namely,  at every single heist the Trigger Happy Shooters had made an appearance at, the gems were always the biggest and most expensive.  The Biggest Ruby, The two rarest Sapphires, the thought lost Emerald… 

The target of the heists was always incredible in size, were worth even more than your average gemstone or had been lost/locked away for a long time. 

After reading through even more files, Hakui was certain: The mysterious group was after only the most valuable of valuable gems, and for some reason didn’t see any worth in them after KID had stolen them first. 

Now, the more important question, Why the fuck was that the reasoning? 

—

Step 3 :  Testing the Theory, and if needed, going back to Step 2.

The Next heist was tense. 

KID had announced that he would steal a pair of rings, both containing two very precious and very big gems : An Emerald and a Ruby. Both were worth a lot, and Nakamori meant a lot, of money. They had been hidden away from the public for over thirty years by now. The owner, a young woman, had found them in a hidden safe in the kitchen cupboard of her late grandmother. 

No one knew where the grandmother had gotten the gems from, as nothing was known about them, but they were certainly worth a high sum. To raise their worth further before selling, the owner had challenged Kaitou KID to steal the jewellery ( Something Nakamori is sure the thief would have done regardless ) . 

It was a big heist.  

After Officer Hakui had come to the conclusion that the mysterious shooters went after only the biggest, most valuable of gems, but left them alone if KID stole them first, a discussion about the motive behind that was opened. As a group, they’d come up with a few theories— some more logical than others… (No, Officer Nekori, they were definitely not going after the gems because they were trying to use them to achieve immortality—) 

But none of them were good. 

At all. 

From KID being forced to do his work by some criminal organisation to The Trigger Happy Shooters just trying to kill KID after he stole a big gem to get it for themselves because they weren’t good enough at thieving to get it ( ok maybe they’d been a bit mad at that point) — 

There had been a lot of theories and no one to confirm them. It had been a mess. 

They couldn’t settle on one though. There were just too many unknowns, too many things they didn’t have the full picture off. Too much proof and not enough at the same time. It was…frustrating. To know that KID was playing some game only he was aware about with a dangerous organisation, and that they could do nothing to help. 

They wanted to focus on catching the Trigger Happy Shooters. They wanted to focus on that, erase the risk and then go back to hunting KID the way they had before— should KID still do heists then. (There had been a few theories that KID was only going after his… hobby because of the group, but again, not enough evidence—) 

Because, as devastating as the thought of KID stopping his heists was, he’d rather take that than KID’s luck running out and him getting hit somewhere more fatal than the lower arm. 

Nakamori didn’t know how he would deal with KID disappearing once again, just as he didn’t know what he’d do if he ever actually caught him but— 

He’d take disappearance over a corpse any day. 

Point was, they wanted to focus on arresting Snake and his group, but they literally couldn’t. This mysterious organisation obviously had influence over the police, so if they asked for help or too obviously stopped trying to catch KID ( Not that they would ever do that— they would catch that Bastard one day, he was sure of it—) , it could end up very badly. 

Nakamori didn’t know if the organisation had enough power to make sure none of them ever got permission to attend a KID heist ever again, but he didn’t necessarily want to find out. 

But today, they weren’t setting up any traps ( except the one for KID, of course, and he was pretty confident this one would do the trick and finally trap the thief—) , they were just confirming Hakui’s theory. If the Trigger Happy Shooters did arrive, then that would likely confirm that they were targeting only the most valuable of gems. 

And it would also explain why KID mostly went after gems and only rarely jewellery made out of gold or something similar, if he was really making a habit off ruining the plans of these people…

KID 1 certainly had not cared whether he stole Gems or Gold or something else entirely, so it wasn’t like it was a weird Kaitou KID thing like the white suit or the magic tricks—

Nakamori’s thoughts were interrupted by one of his men (the one responsible for checking the clock) informing them that KID’s announced heist would start in exactly one minute. 

Nakamori couldn’t help his grin as he looked over the trap again. This one was truly pure genius on their part, if he may say so himself. 

The rings had been safely secured in a cage, but not just any cage. A cage made completely and utterly out of ice. Actually, it was more like a ice cube around the rings, completely frozen and solid. ( He had politely but firmly ignored the owner babbling about the damaging nature of this— ) 

The temperature was freezing inside the room, and the floor too was glazed over with a thin layer of ice. They had recently discovered KID’s general dislike of the cold and ice, probably stemming from the fact that the thief was absolutely atrocious at Ice Skating, which was a source of great amusement to Nakamori. 

Additionally to this, there were invisible lasers all over the room— Non lethal ones, of course. They just caused a small electric shock— not even enough to completely knock someone out, just making them unable to move for a good while! 

Really, stealing the jewellery was impossible this time, Nakamori was sure of it— 

The Lights went out. 

Nakamori immediately grabbed his taser, determined grin on his face. He was so fired up, he couldn’t even feel the cold anymore! Finally, it was show time! Show time for KID’s last ever show!! 

A few seconds later the lights turned back on, and Nakamori pointed his weapon at where the Ice Cube was, confident he would see KID appear there— 

Only for the Ice Cube, and the rings kept inside of it, to just be gone. There wasn’t even water on the rest of the ice, which was slowly beginning to melt, it had just— disappeared. 

How the fuck— 

“MEN!!”, Nakamori shouted. “Scatter! Stay together in groups of four and find that bastard!!” His Men immediately obeyed, scattering out of the room with determined shouts of “We’ll find you, KID!” or “Don’t think you can hide from us!” 

Soon, it was only Nakamori himself left. He crossed the corner, then stopped and his around the corner. That way, he’d be able to look into the room easily, but no one inside would be able to see him . 

He had a feeling that… 

Within seconds of him leaving, KID dropped from the ceiling, amused chuckling included and apparently immune to lasers now. Nakamori really had to restrain himself as not to rush in there immediately right now and wipe that stupid smug smirk off of that bastards face. 

“Ah, too easy~”, KID chirped, walking up to the now empty centre of the room. He raised his hands, and with a single well placed push, everything fell in on itself, revealing the Ice cube still in place, not having melted by even one bit. 

That Bastard had somehow used mirrors and glass to make a whole ass ice cube just disappear—  How did that even work?!?

Nakamori remained hidden, pondering on the trick KID had just used as the thief pulled out— 

Was that a flamethrower?!? Nakamori squinted, then blinked three times to make sure he wasn’t hallucinating or looking at this wrong but no— It was a literal flamethrower!

Nakamori wanted to have a serious word with whoever sold or gave that to a Teenager— Because what?? Were?? They thinking??? (Though, to be fair, KID could have been anyone when he acquired it, from old but still psychotic grandpa to manic arsonist who paid a bit too well for the seller to call the police…But still!!) 

Nakamori gaped as KID started humming a tune while he burned away the ice cube what the fuck why was KID with a flamethrower so terrifying?!

He really hoped that KID wouldn’t decide that oh, I actually really love flamethrowers , I should bring them to every heist from now on :3 because that would actually make Nakamori think about quitting. 

Could you imagine that? KID running around with a flamethrower?! 

Luckily, KID didn’t seem to be a big fan of the thing, considering he threw it away ( seriously, it flew across the room and slid a bit more, landing near Nakamori, who was standing pretty  far away from where KID was—)  the moment he was be able to get his grubby hands on the rings. 

And he did so, right in front of Nakamori, who was restraining himself from rushing in just barely right now, despite letting KID steal the rings being part of the plan— but still. He was right there! If he could just— AGHS! This was frustrating. 

Nakamori kept watch as him hold up the rings to the moon just as he always did. He’d thought KID wouldn’t do it when no one was around, but apparently the bastard was just that dramatic. Probably thought it was part of his aesthetic or something equally ridiculous—

Nakamori’s thoughts stopped the moment the back door creaked open, any amusement leaving his body and being replaced with nerves. 

They had purposely left the back door wide open. No lock. No guards there or in the hallways behind it. Seemingly no tricks. They had acted like it was just a stupid oversight on their part, when there had actually been a specific order not to enter through it. Not one they had mentioned during the heist in any way. One only discussed in the safety of their meeting room. 

KID had ignored the back door, easily coming to the conclusion that it was a trap of some sorts. Because KID knew they would never leave it open otherwise. 

Evidently, Snake and his Men weren’t that smart, considering they just waltzed in, weapons in hand and shady black clothing on just as last time.  ( Nakamori very pointedly ignored the pride he felt for KID at the fact that he was smarter than the group of eleven adults. ) 

Nakamori hated that they had to risk KID’s safety like that just to confirm a theory. They hadn’t dared to actually set up a trap at the back door, as it might have scared off the Trigger Happy Shooters, so KID was completely at their mercy— well as much as KID could be at anyone’s mercy… 

“Welcome to the party, Snake and other people who never told me their names!”, KID greeted cheerfully even as the men collectively pointed their guns at him. Either KID really wasn’t nervous at all, or he had one hell of a pokerface ( Hehe, thanks ~ ✩ ) . 

“No games, KID.” Snake said, voice just as humourless as last time Nakamori had met him. “Hand over the rings— And no fast movements, this time.” 

Nakamori tensed further when he realised that KID still had the rings in his hands, leaving him no excuse to pull a weapon. 

Fuck—

“Hm?”, KID said, raising an eyebrow and moving the hand containing the rings closer to himself. “Are you sure you want these? I get the feeling you won’t care about them in just a few seconds!” 

Nakamori eyed the flamethrower laying on the ground near him. Would he be able to grab it? No, he would. Better question : Was he willing to set fire to a building for KID?

“And I’m just supposed to believe you, KID?”, Snake glared, readying his gun in warning. Kid’s hand stopped moving. “No, I’ll check myself.” 

“Well, if you want to waste your time, be my guest.” KID shrugged, passing the three rings— Wait. Why were there three—?

Snake caught the three (??? Why three—) rings, evidently just as confused as Nakamori. He tapped one of them, then—

The Ring exploded in a puff of smoke, filling up the room. 

Nakamori couldn’t help his relieved grin. That damn bastard of a genius—

Nakamori’s worry returned tenfold when the shady men started shooting around the room blindly. Nakamori did his best to listen closely— He heard a lot of clanks, but no pained gasp or sound of hitting flesh so hopefully— 

The smoke cleared, and KID was gone. The Trigger Happy Shooters were still standing at the same spot as before, the only difference being the loads of bullets laying on the floor now. They were looking around frantically, but KID was nowhere to be seen. 

Nakamori sighed in relief. 

At least KID put his life over some stupid jewellery…

“Give it up, the Bastard’s gone.”, Snake sighed, dropping his own gun. He instead raised the hand holding the rings and inspected them closely.  “Well, let’s see…” Then he raised his hand further, holding the gem up to the moon similarly to the way KID had just a few moments before. 

The stones in the ring shone brightly in the moonlight. 

Snake studied them for a few moments. Nakamori frowned. So maybe that wasn’t part of KID’s ‘aesthetic’ or whatever, considering this Snake guy did it too. Maybe it was a way to check for fakes? You could probably tell that from the moonlight…somehow. Maybe. He had no idea. 

Snake gave a frustrated huff just a moment later, dropping the rings to the floor carelessly. So those were fakes, then? When had KID done that? Nakamori was getting more impressed with the phantom thief by the day, as much as he despised it. 

Without any further word, Snake turned and left through the back door, his personal Men in Black following. 

Then it was silent. The only indicator they had ever been there at all were the loads of bullets on the floor. Nakamori sighed, walking over to the fake rings on the floor, picking them up. 

They looked really realistic. Where had KID even gotten them from? Had he made them? Or did people just sell fake jewellery on the internet? Nakamori squinted. Hm, not even that cheeky little card in there like KID usually added to his fakes…

Wait—

“Have you realised it yet, Keibu?”, KID’s voice rang out, and Nakamori whirled around just in time to see KID drop from ceiling and land in that stupid graceful way off his, not making a single sound.  Nakamori quickly looked him over for any injuries, but no red was to be seen on the familiar white suit.   

“Are those— Those are the real rings?”, Nakamori demanded. 

“Sure are!” KID confirmed. Nakamori immediately held his hand as close to his chest as possible while his other one went to his taser, eyes squinted suspiciously.

KID blinked, then… laughed. Like the damn bastard he was.

“No worries Keibu, those rings aren’t quite what I’m looking for!”, KID reassured, amused grin on his face. Nakamori regarded KID suspiciously. He didn’t move his hands. KID’s grin just widened. “Fair enough.” 

“Why are you still here, KID?”, Nakamori asked. At his question, KID’s smile dimmed a bit, which immediately turned on blasting red sirens and rang every single alarm bell in Nakamori’s mind. 

“I’m here to tell you, Nakamori-san, these people are dangerous.” KID said, voice more serious than he’d ever heard it. “I appreciate the sentiment, but it would be best for everyone involved if you just kept out of it.”  

Shit, play dumb! 

“What are people?” Nakamori blurted out. KID blinked. 

Not that dumb! 

“I mean— What people?” Nakamori asked, trying to look as confused as humanly possible. Judging by the raised eyebrow, KID wasn’t impressed. Maybe he looked too confused then?

“The people you saw just now.” KID answered, voice in a deadpan. “While trying and utterly failing to properly hide behind that corner.” 

“Ah.” That damn bastard! He’d known Nakamori was there! “I have no idea what you’re—“  

“Keibu, I’m serious.”, KID interrupted, voice gaining an edge of frustration. 

“Hi serious, I’m Ginzo Nakamori—“ FUCK SHIT DAMN—!! THIS WAS NOT THE TIME FOR JOKES, BRAIN—  “No— Sorry, nervous reflex.” That much was true at least. KID, for his part, seemed more surprised than annoyed, but quickly smothered the surprised expression with an unimpressed one. Like the pokerface wearing bastard he was. 

But really? Was the idea of Nakamori making a joke that shocking? 

“Bad attempts at jokes aside—“ OI! His jokes were fantastic! A stupid thief like him just wouldn’t get it! “—I repeat myself: You should stay out of this.”

“A group of shady men in black shooting around at your heists is kinda a concern for us.” Nakamori replied, crossing his arms over his chest.

“I won’t let them hurt anyone.” KID shot back without hesitation.

“No offence, KID—“ The look on KID’s face told that he was going to take full offence— “But not even you can guarantee that.” The silence was answer enough. “So just tell me what’s going on, and me and my men will—“ 

“No.” KID said sharply. “No, you and your men need to stay out of this.”  

“Why?” Nakamori asked, confused. If these people were that dangerous, wouldn’t KID rather want help than reject it? Was this arrogance talking or something else? 

“It’s not safe.” KID answered. Nakamori scowled. 

“We’re police officers, KID!” Nakamori reminded, slowly growing aggravated. Why was KID acting like they were incompetent? It’s not like they’d never dealt with dangerous people before! “If safety was a concern, we wouldn’t have this job!” 

“This is different.” KID just said, quietly and so unlike himself that it made Nakamori’s skin crawl. In anger, in concern. 

“Why?” Nakamori demanded, voice rising. “Why is this different? What makes them so dangerous?” 

“It just is!”

KID never raised his voice. Never yelled, never screamed, never shouted. Not because of anger. Not because of pain.  The only reason KID ever raised his voice was to make it carry around a big room. But never because of his emotions.  KID was the textbook definition of calm and controlled when it came to those. 

Always a perfect Pokerface.  

Hell, Nakamori wasn’t even sure if it was a pokerface half of the time, that’s how good he was.

So Nakamori was understandably stumped when KID’s voice rose as he answered, almost a yell at the end of it. Evidently, KID hadn’t excepted it either, considering he blinked and dropped the hand he’d raised to make a point in blank confusion. 

Which was shaking. 

Nakamori couldn’t help but notice that as he watched KID’s hand fall to his side. It was shaking. It was shaking because KID, Kaitou KID, the unshakable Phantom Thief, was scared. Because Nakamori was trying to involve himself and his men in this. 

KID, He thought, what the fuck did you get into?

“…If you really want to help.” KID said after a few moments, voice carefully blank. “Then just continue on as you did before. Keep setting up your traps. Keep trying to catch me. Keep being there as normally. Just… please… don’t involve yourself in this further.” 

Then the room filled with smoke, and KID was gone. 

— 

Step 3.5 :  Doubt the whole plan

After the heist, Nakamori had sent his men home without any words on how their plan to test Haiku’s theory had gone. His men had refused to go at first, asking him if anything went wrong and if he was okay. He had, as quickly as possible, reassured them that everything was fine, and that they would hold their meeting tomorrow, at the usual time. 

Still sending him concerned glances, they had left eventually, and Nakamori had gone home. The house had been dark, Aoko fast asleep in her room. (Obviously. It was the middle of the night, and Aoko had realised quickly that she couldn’t stay awake long enough to be there when her father came home.

…

Sometimes, Nakamori thought he really sucked as a Father. 

Or more like, he thought that all the time, but shoved the thought into the same dark corner of his mind where his fear that KID 1 had died years ago was being kept and ignored it. 

( Because every time he tried, nothing ended up coming out of it anyways. And Nakamori didn’t like failing.) 

Today, she could have caught him if she stayed up, so he was really glad that she wasn’t. ) 

He changed out of his sweaty clothes, took a quick shower, and then sat down on the couch— Because he wouldn’t be able to sleep if he tried. 

If you really went to help, then just continue on as you did before. 

…  

Should they? 

For the past month, they’d been trying to get information on The Trigger Happy Shooters— on their motives, on their relation to KID, on their goal… on anything. The only thing they had was Hakui’s theory, which made sense when you looked at the files only, but then there was the whole thing with that group not targeting anything after KID had his fingers on it. 

It seemed like some kind of…  competition. The kind of thing you’d see in a badly made comedy show— One Phantom Thief vs. A group of Men with guns ; Who can steal the big gem faster? Or something like that. It had been a theory of theirs, too. That the KID Imposter had been some kind of challenge… some kind of invitation for KID, which he then, perhaps accidentally, accepted by stopping the fake. 

And because KID, both of them, couldn’t back down from a challenge, he’d begun to play the part of Phantom Thief in some kind of fucked up competition to the death. 

Except that didn’t make sense, because then the Trigger Happy Shooters would probably make an appearance at every KID heist, and not just the one with big gems. Except there was also the small, almost improbable possibility that they could have been at the others too and just went unnoticed. 

Like every other theory of theirs, they had too much and not enough proof at the same time. It was like this with every single one: They made sense, but to actually prove it, they needed something, some information, that they didn’t have. 

It felt like they were one step away from the truth, but that one step just happened to be as large as a cliff and the only bridge to cross it was actively running away from them!  

And now, after that heist, Nakamori felt like he had all the puzzle pieces, except the puzzle was already half finished and the pieces kept changing and— Okay, he’d kind off lost his point with this one. 

But still. Nakamori was sure, so sure, that he just needed to find the right way all the hints fit together, and everything would make sense. Normally, he would have called in a surprise-but-not-actually-unexpected meeting, and then him and his men would work through the night and the next day any would not stop until they figured this shit out!

But. 

If you really want to help, then just continue on as you did before. 

Was solving this puzzle, was involving themselves into this… really the right choice? 

KID wasn’t shy about using the police to capture other criminals. Those who interfered with his heists were almost always arrested afterwards, courtesy of KID himself luring them right into the trap meant for him or straight up disguising as an officer and leading them to the imposter— 

KID also wasn’t shy about using the Police’s presence to his advantage. 

So the question was, why wasn’t he now? 

The first thought Nakamori had was— maybe they had some kind of leverage over KID. Something that made him dance to their tune. A hostage or something important to him. Except then they wouldn’t be getting back any gems, and the Trigger Happy Shooters would definitely not be shooting at him. 

So that wasn’t it. 

His second thought had been pride or arrogance. Maybe KID was convinced he could deal with this on his own, or maybe he was too embarrassed to ask for help, or something. Except if he wanted to, he could easily lure the police to Snake’s men at any time, and he wouldn’t need to ask at all. 

And then he remembered KID’s shaking hands, his words about safety and his almost pleading tone when he asked Nakamori to stay out of it— 

KID truly and utterly believed that anyone involved in this would, sooner or later, get hurt, or worse, because of it. KID was … scared of them. Scared of what they could do. 

In hindsight, it seemed so obvious. 

Of course KID was scared of them. The thief had literally given him every hint needed to come to that conclusion twice. The shaking hands, the seriousness when talking about them, the worried reaction when anyone tried to involve themselves…

KID, Kaitou KID, Phantom Thief and The Magician under the Moonlight, the Teenager that routinely outsmarted a whole group of trained officers… was scared of what those people could do. 

KID, who could disguise himself as anyone, who could infiltrate any place, who came up with the most ingenious magic tricks and used them in seconds… Was scared of that group. 

Not even for himself, but for them. The KID Task Force. The people who quite literally got paid for trapping and catching him. KID was genuinely convinced that if they continued on and involved themselves into this, then they would get hurt and die, and that he wouldn’t be able to do anything about it. 

And wasn’t that telling? 

What kind of organisation could scare the Kaitou KID that badly? 

… 

What did they do? 

Nakamori could practically see the puzzle pieces for that question. He had all the pieces, all the evidence needed to figure this out. He just need to push them in the right places, and he would see the picture. 

If you really want to help, then just continue on as you did before. 

The question was just; should he even do it?  Should he solve the puzzle? 

The only person who held all the cards here was KID. The only one who had all the information was KID. Even if he figured this out, another question would come up and Nakamori still wouldn’t see the whole picture. The only one who really knew what was going on was KID. 

And KID was a strategist. 

He was smart, no doubt about it. No, not even just smart. He was extremely intelligent. He planned his heists meticulously, sometimes in barely a few hours. He always had what felt like a million tricks up his sleeve that helped him escape even if he did get caught by surprise, and he easily dealt with any extra people to take care of. 

Summed up, KID knew what he was doing. 

And KID had all but outright told him not to do anything. To just keep going as usual. Not to change anything. So what if the Task Force was doing something to help without even realising it? What if their mere presence was useful to KID, but they would mess up his plans if they involved themselves further? 

What if their meddling put KID in danger?

So, does he finish the puzzle? 

The puzzle might not even change anything. It might not give any new information about the organisation at all. But Nakamori knew himself well enough to know that if he figured something out, he would not be able to stop himself from involving the Task Force further. 

He would be able to control himself for a while, sure, but eventually he would end up doing something. 

And the problem was, that impulsiveness could very well cost KID his life. If it did… 

That situation would already be bad enough. The thought that someone would get hurt, would die, because Nakamori couldn’t help but act stupid and impulsively was already bad enough if it was a stranger. 

But KID? The KID he hunted down every few days? The KID he respected? The KID who returned what he stole, helped people without asking for anything in return and refused to harm even those who shot at him? The KID who was an actual kid, a teenager who probably did impulsive and emotional things—

Wait. 

The teenager. 

Nakamori knew KID was, well, a kid. He’d known for almost two months now. And KID…KID was a teenager. Despite his ( mostly ) mature behaviour, despite his overwhelming intelligence and his overly fancy way of talking… KID was still just a teenager. A stupid, irrational and driven by emotions Teenager. 

And when it came to the emotion that KID felt in connection to that organisation… 

Fear made people act irrationally. Most adults acted irrationally when scared. As much as KID liked to pretend he was completely and utterly in control of his emotions, his small outburst last heist proved otherwise. KID could be overtaken by his emotions. 

And KID had proved, multiple times, that he cared about the lives of everyone. And everyone obviously also included the Task Force. Nakamori even liked to think he might be a bit fond of them, at least. 

So of course he would try to keep them away from something he perceived as too dangerous for him to be able to protect them from. And he would likely do, and say, anything for them to stay out of whatever this mess was. 

If you really want to help, then just continue on as you did before. 

Would that really help, or was KID just driven by his fear? Was he acting rationally or was he just scared that someone would die if he involved them? Was what he did part of some kind of bigger plan or just a method to keep them safe?

Were they putting KID in danger by not listening to him or were they putting him in danger by blindly following what he told them to do? 

Did this theory even make sense? Was it logical to base this entire thing off one single reaction KID had? Did that even make sense? Does he risk it? Does he risk endangering KID because of a theory literally based off the fact that KID raised his voice once? 

Does he risk not doing anything? 

Fuck, the old argument again. Nakamori knew there was a chance that not doing anything could potentially endanger KID, and thus, he would sooner or later act on it. Damn his impulsiveness. 

…

Oh fuck it. 

Might as well just continue with their plan if that’s how it was gonna be. 

—

Step 4 : Set the trap and catch a bastard

The day after the Heist That Made Him Question Everything (TM) , Nakamori had told the Task Force about the confirmation of Hakui’s theory. Sure, there was still a small chance it was wrong, but then everything would be a big coincidence, which didn’t seem very likely, because nothing was ever a coincidence when it came to KID. 

He also told them about the worried reaction KID had when he tried to convince Nakamori not to pursue this further, and about the fact that this meant these people were far more dangerous than they had thought. His men simultaneously decided that they did not care one bit and asked about the plan. 

Sometimes, Nakamori really loved his men. 

They had then spent the next few days pouring over files and brainstorming ways to set a double trap that looked like it was for KID, but was actually for the Trigger Happy Shooters. 

But really, they could only actually start planning a trap five days after the Heist-That-Made-Him-Question-Everything, when KID announced his next heist— The Bastard was announcing that he’d be stealing a diamond that had recently arrived from outside japan— Italy, was it? Nakamori hadn’t really been paying attention to that part, a bit more preoccupied with ideas to set up a trap and catching those bastards— 

Anyways. It was a diamond— A big Diamond. If their theory was correct, it was the perfect target for the Trigger Happy Shooters. 

They had a plan. They had set up said plan. They also hoped said plan would work. 

… 

Nakamori really hoped said Plan would work, just so he could shove it in KID’s face. 

—

The trap was fairly simple, but that definitely didn’t make it ineffective. The Diamond was being showcased in the biggest, most open room of the museum, as most of the gems KID targeted were. There were three hallways to access it.

All of them were closed off for not only KID, but everyone else, including the Task Force themselves, too. Two of the three were quite literally blocked with furniture— A huge load of furniture they’d found all around the museum. ( The owner had NOT looked amused, but ultimately allowed it when they explained their trap. His loss if he assumed it was meant to capture KID.) 

If you wanted to enter through one of those ways, you’d need at least half an hour to remove the sheer maze of tables, chairs, podiums and carpets. Either that or like fifty helpers who all worked with a borderline inhuman efficiency; Neither Snake nor KID had that many people. 

The most logical thing to do would be just squeezing yourself through it, right? It would take a while, but it would work. Except no, it wouldn’t, because the whole thing was a construction of tables and chairs that was draped over by carpets— Meaning that it was pitch black inside. And for good measure, and also because night vision goggles existed, they decided to borrow one of KID’s tricks and made sure the floor was more marbles than actual floor.

The visitors who’d tried getting through that sheer monster of a blockage during visiting hours had given up two or three hours in, so they were fairly confident it was literally impossible. 

The only people who’d come close were Aoko and Kaito, who’d visited earlier. They’d made it to the end in a little less than an hour (Nakamori still couldn’t believe it! He was so damn proud— of both of them.) , but had ultimately given up when they realised the door at the end of the tunnel was locked with a chain, making it impossible to open the thing further than a small slit. 

So, with two entrances locked to probably even KID himself, that only left the main entrance— which didn’t have a door, it was just a big hall. They’d acted like they only kept in unblocked for the visitors, which had time to come until only an hour before KID’s heist— Which, under normal circumstances, would have made him furious, because that was far to little time!

( Seriously though, did these rich gem owners just think they could perform miracles or something?! 

In this case though, it was extremely useful for their trap, so Nakamori couldn’t feel too angry about it. But he swore to god,  if the next jewellery owner tried anything like that… ) 

This entrance was guarded by the whole KID Task Force, plus every single guard of the museum, which together made for more than fifty people. The reason for this was to stop KID from disguising as anyone, which wasn’t possible if everyone was at the same place all the time. 

This would force KID to use sleeping gas to gain entrance. 

The next part was simple. The Task Force would pretend to fall asleep very quickly, and when fallen down use the fabric of their clothes to stop them from actually falling asleep. 

Then KID would enter, and Snake and his group would go after him. When the Task Force were certain The Trigger Happy Shooters were inside, Nakamori would use a button he had on himself to activate the most literal part of the trap— Which happened to be close to a hundred nets that would be flying around the room, trapping anyone inside within seconds. (They’d tested it— There was no escaping those nets! ) 

Nets were no problem for KID though, so he would be able to make his escape with his target just as usually while Nakamori and his men arrested the Trigger Happy Shooters for trespassing, illegal possession of firearms , attempted murder, obstruction of justice … the list went on and on, because damn. Snake’s group was not shy about breaking those laws like they were just suggestions or something. 

Very simple, right? You’d think that would go to plan, right? It wasn’t super complicated after all. 

Except no. Because while their plan worked perfectly in theory, they had failed to account for one thing— 

The unpredictability of KID. 

Because KID couldn’t just be a normal thief, noooo. Instead of behaving like any rational human being and using the obvious entrance they had literally set up for him while considering his usual way of going about his thing, he had instead used one of the blocked ways! Like— Like some kind of ninja!

Someone had to have trained KID to be a ninja, because there was no way he would have been able to make it through that maze otherwise! Not while carrying around a welding torch, right? RIGHT?!

Except KID kept insisting he didn’t have any ninja training— ( “I really don’t, Keibu!” ) — And, AND— If he wasn’t so absolutely fucking furious about this situation, he would probably have been impressed! Scratch that, he would definitely have been impressed! And that just made him even madder!! 

Because— Because this was all KID’s fault! 

“This is all your fault, KID!” Nakamori accused, jabbing his finger at KID’s chest. KID, today wearing Kuroba Kaito’s face because he was a little bastard, scowled. 

“I don’t see how is it my fault when it’s your nets!” KID argued, crossing his arms over his chest and thus defying gravity. Because they were currently hanging from the ceiling. Again. 

Except this time, it was by a bunch of twisted nets that could rip any time, and it was all that damned KID’s fault! 

“You weren’t supposed to go through the Furniture Maze!”, Nakamori replied, also crossing his arms because if KID, the arrogant teenager, could, then so could he! 

“And since when do I ever do as you expect?” 

“I— “ Touché, KID, Touché. But like hell he’d admit that! “Well—  Would it have been so hard to do it one time!?”

“And let myself get arrested by you and your men?” KID deadpanned. “Not particularly on my to do list, so yes, it would have been that hard.” 

“The trap wasn’t even for you!!” Nakamori screeched. KID stilled. “And even if it was, it’s not like escaping nets is hard for you!! Especially not with your Ninja Skills and welding Torch!” 

“It’s not Ninja skills.”, KID repeated for the fifth time, though it sounded more automatic than actually amused like before. “And what do you mean, the trap wasn’t for me?” Oh. Shit.

Nakamori looked away, suddenly finding the nets holding them up to be really interesting. “Well… You know—“ 

“I told you to stay out of it.”, KID said, voice blank. Nakamori scowled. 

“You’re not the boss of me.” He ended up saying, crossing his arms again if only to look stern. 

“Keibu.” KID said seriously, copying him by crossing his arms like the little shit he was and giving him a look.

“Wha— Don’t give me that look!” Nakamori protested. “Those are criminals! We’re the police!” KID didn’t look impressed. “And besides, we want to help—“ 

“You’d actually be helping by keeping out of this!” KID said, repeating the same words he had last heist. “Like I keep saying, It’s not—“ 

“Let me guess, safe?” Now it was Nakamori’s turn to look unimpressed. “Like I keep saying, that comes with the job description. Besides, between the two of us, you’re the one whose only weapon shoots cards.” 

“My card gun is highly affective, thank you very much.” KID said, ignoring about everything important in that sentence like the little shit he was. “But I mean it, Keibu. Those people aren’t your average criminals.” 

“Yeah, I’ve noticed that.”, Nakamori grumbled. “But as you see, KID, we don’t really care. These people are shooting at you, and sooner or later, they’ll hit more than your arm.” 

“Sure.” KID said easily. “But I don’t intend for it to happen any time soon.” 

“Well it shouldn’t happen at all!”, Nakamori growled. “You can’t just keep stealing gems and ignore the issue until you can’t anymore!” 

“I’m not ignoring anything, Keibu.” KID replied. “I’m working on it.” 

“By continuing with stealing the gems and jewellery they want?” Nakamori asked, raising an unimpressed eyebrow. “That’s not a very good way to not get shot at.” 

“I have a plan. It just takes a while to work.” KID answered, then suddenly grinned. “But trust me, they’re gonna be pissed.”  KID said it with such certainty…It sounded like he was telling the truth. The problem was just— this was still KID, who could probably smooth talk his way out of being arrested if it weren’t for the heightened alert at heists. 

Nakamori had no way to know if he was telling the truth or lying straight to his face.

And either way, pissed doesn’t equal arrested.

“Well, tell me about that plan then.” Nakamori commanded. KID just chuckled. 

“Haven’t you heard? A magician never reveals reveals their secrets!”

“Luckily for me, you’re not a magician, you’re a thief.” Nakamori said, making KID gasp in outrage. Okay so maybe that hadn’t been the smartest thing to say, but now he had to go through with it. Fake it till you make it, or something like that. “So spill.” 

“How dare you?!” KID shouted in over exaggerated outrage, jabbing a finger at Nakamori’s chest. “I am a Magician! I’m the Magician! People literally call me the Magician in the Moonlight! I’m a magician, and don’t you dare imply otherwise—“ 

“You’re overreacting!! Shut up, damn KID!” Nakamori accused, also jabbing his finger. 

“Never!” KID yelled, swinging his arms. “Not until you admit I’m a Magician! Honestly, the nerve of you?! I’m like the poster child of magicians!” 

“No, that would be the boy you’re imitating right now!”  Nakamori disagreed immediately. “Kaito is a far better magician than you’ll ever be!” KID blinked, seemingly caught of guard. HAH! Now he knew what that felt like! 

Then, the little bastard started laughing! “Pfff—- That boy with his little tricks? The most he does is jump out a window or throw around some confetti! I’m obviously much better than him!” 

“No you’re the fuck not! The only reason Kaito doesn’t do the same tricks as you is that he doesn’t parade around in a bright white suit and steals precious gems every few nights! Obviously he wouldn’t need to do any of the stupid and reckless tricks you do!” 

If they were standing upright, KID would probably be bent over laughing judging by how hard he was giggling. 

“PFFF— Sorry, “ KID was barely able to say anything before he started laughing loudly again. “This is  just… so funny.” 

“I’m serious!” Nakamori declared. “If Kaito was a Phantom thief, he’d be better than you! I don’t just think that, I know that!” 

KID was basically hysterical now, laughing so hard that he started gasping for breath in between his manic giggles. Seriously! What was so funny?! Kaito was a better Magician than KID would ever be!  KID was just an arrogant little shit—

“Sorry, Keibu.” KID managed out after a few minutes of laughing and Nakamori glaring at the thief. “But there’s only one Magician that surpasses me.” 

WAIT. He meant the previous KID, right? Yeah, Probably. The Task Force was pretty damn sure that KID was only doing his thieving to honour the old KID, who likely wasn’t able to do it anymore for whatever reason, so who else would it be?

Damnit, now he wanted to ask! But it wasn’t like KID would answer anyway… 

“Hmpf!” Was what he ended up saying. “Well, I’m sure Kaito—“ 

“Please don’t start again.” KID said, amused grin on his face. “I don’t particularly want to start laughing for five minutes straight again.” 

“You’re being ridiculous!” Nakamori said, crossing his arms. “It’s not that funny!” 

“No, no it really is.” KID replied, already giggling again. Seriously, it was starting to get annoying! 

“NO— SHUT UP!! I can’t stand to hear your laugh any more today! Or this week!”

“Well, it’s your own fault for saying something as funny as that!” KID answered innocently, then smirked. “Besides, my laugh is like the soft chirping of a bird in the morning! Like a bell ringing on the spring season! Like—“ 

“No— No stop that—“ Nakamori cringed, starting to struggle against the net in the hope it would somehow get him further away from that. “I’m getting second hand embarrassment from this—“ 

“That was the intent!” KID replied cheerfully. 

“How can you just say things like that with a straight face?!”

“Pokerface.” 

Touché. KID had one hell of a pokerface— except when it came to Kaito being better than him, apparently! Yes he was still mad about that! Because Kaito was clearly superior! 

“How do you have a pokerface that good anyway?!” Nakamori asked angrily, because he definitely wasn’t jealous. Because— Because It wasn’t like KID would even be allowed to play poker or do any sorts of gambling, being a minor and all! So why did he get the good Poker Face! 

“Well, I unfortunately can’t really give you an answer to that because—“ 

“Let me guess, it’s a magicians secret?” Nakamori asked, raising an unimpressed eyebrow. 

“— Because I’m just naturally good at it.” KID finished without stuttering or acknowledging Nakamori’s interruption. And naturally good at it?? Life was so unfair. 

“That’s unfair.” Nakamori grumbled, voicing his thoughts. 

“Well, life is hardly ever fair or easy!” KID answered wisely, and Nakamori flicked him in the face for that stupid attempt at sounding like an enlightened old man who had seen all of the world and had a philosophical answer to everything, even the question of which food he wanted. 

“You know what would make your life easier?” Nakamori said. “Telling me about your plan so we can help with it.” KID immediately scowled at him, so Nakamori did the only natural thing; ignore the irritated teenage Phantom Thief and continue talking. “It would also make my life easier! You know how much time I’ve been spending worrying about this?!” 

“…My apologies for that.” KID answered, back to talking all smoothly and calmly— Nothing like the more casual side of him Nakamori had seen just a few moments before. Nakamori was really starting to believe Hideki’s theory that it was a coping mechanism or whatever the man had said. “It’s not my intent to make you worry about any of this. You weren’t even supposed to know about it.” 

“Well—“ Nakamori said, still a bit put off by the sudden change. “Like I said, it would be calming to know your plan!” He was so close, he could basically feel it… 

“Informing you my plan would mean telling you some dangerous things.” KID answered after a few moments. “Right now, you’re not a target because you don’t know half of what’s going on, but if I tell you this…” Well, that was certainly worrying. 

But at least KID seemed to be seriously considering it! 

“Tell me.” Nakamori answered without hesitation. “We don’t mind becoming targets.” They actually didn’t. Being in danger was —like he kept repeating to KID!— part of the job. They expected it when they became officers. He appreciated the sentiment —he really did!— but KID kept acting like they were incompetent! And that was just annoying! 

“Well, you should mind it.” KID answered coldly. “Keibu, Snake’s group has killed people that were far more incredible than you and me together.” Fuck, KID only called one person superior to himself, so did he mean— 

“They killed the old KID?!?” Nakamori blurted out, then immediately regretted it when KID’s eyes snapped towards him.  Please let him be wrong, please let him be wrong—

“Ah.” KID answered with a bitter smile. “You do have realised it then. I was wondering.” 

That’s not a damn answer— !

“KID!” Nakamro shouted, grabbing the thief by his shoulders. “Is… Did they—“ 

He couldn’t say it. 

He couldn’t say it! He had been clinging onto hope for so long now. For eight years. And— he’d known. He’d known it was a possibility.  He had hated it- Hated the thought that the man he’d spent his entire life hunting was dead. Killed by a sickness or in an accident or— 

Or something! Something that didn’t fit him, because KID the Phantom Thief couldn’t be killed by something so simple! That man felt like the night sky itself, materialising for them to catch him. Someone like that didn’t die in a car accident or of a heart attack. 

Murdered by a group of gem hunters fit the bill. 

He hated that thought. He hated it more than anything. And he hated even more that it made sense. So much fucking sense. 

But— Please, Please, just— let him be wrong. For once in his life, Nakamori wanted to be wrong so badly. 

“They did.” KID said, voice blank and emotionless. A facade of apathy because he couldn’t manage his facade of playfulness, and that fact alone proved the apathy to be a facade. “He got in their way so… They got rid of him.” Looked like KID couldn’t say it either. 

Fuck! 

Just— FUCK!! It— It was true. KID, the old KID, was… dead. He was… dead. Dead. KID was dead. KID— 

Damnit! Not— Not the time! He could have a breakdown later, for now he needed to convince KID to let them help him ki— catch those bastards! The Bastards who killed— 

“Tell me your plan.” Nakamori said, keeping his voice as even as possible. He would have his breakdown later. Later. “How do you— How are you planning to get them arrested.”  

KID was silent for a few moments. Nakamori already feared he wouldn’t answer him when— 

“Before I can get them arrested, I need to do something.” 

Oh. 

Oh. Somehow— Somehow it hadn’t crossed his mind that KID— non violent, kind KID— would want revenge on anyone. Not even the people who killed his mentor— Father. Or whatever KID 1 was to him. It didn’t seem to be the violent kind of revenge, at least. He’d had plenty of opportunity for that. 

Good. That was good. It meant KID hadn’t lost himself in his revenge. He was still KID. Still himself. 

Nakamori doesn’t know if he would be able to do that, if it was Aoko. Hell, he was barely even able to control himself when it was KID 1. Who he had suspected to be dead for eight— nine years by now. If it was KID 2 or, god forbid, Kaito or Aoko…

He honestly didn’t think he would be able to hold himself back. His respect for KID 2 had just gone up a whole mile. 

“…What do you need to do?” 

“… I can’t tell you.” KID said. He sounded genuinely remorseful. “It would paint a target on your back. And I… just can’t do that. I apologise.” 

Nakamori understood his hesitance in telling them about Snake and his group now. If they killed someone he respected, he adored that much… It made sense for a teenager to be scared of that happening again. It made sense for anyone to be scared of that. 

“I… understand.” Nakamori said after a few moments. He didn’t like it, didn’t like it at all, but he understood. “But KID— Are you sure, are you completely sure, that you need to do this? Is it worth risking your life for?” 

“Yes.” KID replied without hesitation. “Without a doubt.” Nakamori took a deep breath, released it. He doubted it. He honestly doubted it, because nothing was worth KID’s life. Not revenge, not any gems— Nothing. 

But KID didn’t think so, and convincing KID of anything was a lost battle. That kid was as stubborn as a bull. Though Nakamori himself wasn’t really one to talk. 

“Okay.” Was what he ended up saying. “But it isn’t for me. It isn’t worth it for any of us. And KID, we’re gonna hunt these people either way.” Now more than ever. “With or without your help. And you can’t stop us from doing that.” 

“I know.” KID said quietly. 

They hung from the ceiling in silence for a few moments, before KID sighed. Out of nowhere, he pulled— It was the wielding torch. When—?! How did that even fit into his pockets?! Did he just have a pocket dimension in his cape or something?!

KID held the magic wielding torch to the net and— WAIT—

“KID— KID DON’T BURN THE ROPE WE’RE HANGING FROM—!” Nakamori barely finished his sentence when they were already falling down. “AGHSHWJAH—“ 

A pair of white clothed arms caught him, laughing loudly. “Whatever was that sound just now, Keibu?” KID teased, looking down from where he was holding up Nakamori. KID himself had twisted his legs around his grappling hook, which he had somehow anchored into a beam on the ceiling in under three seconds, to hold them both up. 

“It was a SCREAM! Because you just dropped us from 50 meters up—“ 

“It’s 56, actually!” KID corrected cheerfully. 

“That just makes it worse!” 

KID snickered, then started— Swinging around! 

“KID— What the fuck are you—“ When they were about as far up as they could get, KID let go and used the momentum to throw them both across the room. “AGH WHAT THE HELL—!” 

A few seconds later they hit the balcony on the left side of the room. Nakamori breathed heavily as he stood up, adrenaline rushing through his veins. How the hell did KID do these things on a nightly basis? 

He turned around to ask just that— 

And found the room empty. 

… 

That fucking bastard! 

—

Three uneventful, smaller heists later, they received two separate notes from KID. One written in his usual, tricky fashion, announcing his next target. A big sapphire. 

The other one contained a detailed plan for a trap. 

—

The tension at the next heist was so strong that Ms. Izanami —a rich old woman who spent her time solving riddles and decided she wanted to make one herself in the form of a trap for KID— had fled the scene very quickly and settled for instead watching from her balcony. 

Which was good for them, because that way there were less unknown variables to mess up the plan. But Nakamori still couldn’t help but be a little offended. 

Either way, this plan was still pretty simple, all things considered. All things being all the unknown variables and the fact that KID’s plans were usually much more complicated and tricky— or maybe they weren’t , and that was just part of the illusion. It was always hard to tell with KID. Just as the thief liked it, probably. 

This plan, too, involved nets— just a far more normal amount of them. The thing was, this gem was quite literally hidden behind a riddle. 

He had mentioned the owner liked riddles, hadn’t he? Nakamori couldn’t relate. The way KID’s heist notices were written was already always giving him headaches— Seriously though! Why couldn’t KID just announce his heists like a normal Phantom Thief?! When he thought about the amount of time they spent poured over books trying to deceiver obscure references to mythology, he wanted to rip out his hair! 

How Ms. Izanami enjoyed those things, he couldn’t fathom. She was insane, probably. Came with age or something. 

Anyways. The gem was, quite literally, hidden behind a riddle. Or rather, hidden behind a waterfall fountain that caused small injuries with the sheer pressure it ran. Crossing through it was literally impossible. (Officer Fukuto had tried and was rewarded with a trip to the hospital. Poor sod.) 

Turning it off was also impossible, as the whole thing was powered by a separate network, and the generator was buried somewhere in the woods. Emphasis on somewhere, because Ms. Izanami had done it herself some days ago and refused to tell anyone about where it was. 

Nor where the three back up generators were buried. Or what the solution to the riddle that opened the tunnel to cross through the waterfall was. So essentially, they weren’t protecting a gem, they were protecting a riddle. Not even a easy riddle, but a poetic and yet basically unsolvable riddle involving greek mythology. Because of course they were. When was anything ever normal at KID heists? It was like the heist notice infected the person who received it with insanity or something! 

KID seemed confident he could solve the riddle though, in the note he’d sent. So either he already knew the riddle and thus also the solution (because no riddle was unsolvable for KID for longer than a day) or KID, the arrogant idiot, just believed in his own riddle solving abilities so much that he thought he could solve it within a few seconds.  

Honestly, both seemed equally likely, a fact that would have annoyed Nakamori greatly under different circumstances. 

These weren’t normal circumstances though. The goal of this heist wasn’t to catch KID, it was to catch Snake. Like he’d said a few heists ago, nets weren’t really something to stop KID. Not even electroshock nets apparently, like they had used per KID’s instructions. At least Nakamori hoped they weren’t a problem for KID, because they had certainly never seen him escape any. 

But well, it wasn’t like KID would have to escape any nets anyway, if everything went according to plan. 

An officer —one that Nakamori did not recognise, so he no doubt wasn’t an officer at all— informed him that the heist was announced to start in exactly thirty seconds. Alright then. 

Nakamori readied his trusted taser, looking around along with the rest of his fellow officers as if they were looking for any sign of KID while pointedly ignoring the one officer who pulled an actual ‘(card)gun’ instead of a taser. 

KID was so doing this on purpose. Disguising as someone that doesn’t exist had stopped working long ago when it came to KID heists, and if anyone pulled anything that looked even remotely like a gun, the Task Force would go absolutely wild! 

But right now, they weren’t out to catch The Phantom Thief, and being the cheeky bastard that he was, KID purposely made mistakes they wouldn’t arrest him for! 

Nakamori swore to god, sometimes he wanted to strangle the life out of that little—

“Look over there—“ Officer Hakui shouted, really putting that acting talent to use and pointing at the roof of the mansion, where a white figure could be seen easily in front of the dark background. “It’s KID!” 

“That damn bastard won’t get past us this time!” Nakamori shouted, before turning to the unfamiliar officer. “You! Stay here and alert us if KID somehow comes past us! Everyone else, follow me!” 

“Yessir!” KID said, going as far as to salute while—  grinning cheekily! If KID didn’t stop with those provocations, Nakamori would end up abandoning the plan in favour of arresting that little bastard and wiping that stupid grin of his face! 

Sadly, the current situation left him unable to do anything other than glaring as him and all of his men rushed to climb the roof through either the stairs or the wall of the mansion. 

Not something they would normally do, considering it was stupid as fuck, but the Task Force already looked so incompetent to outsiders that it was actually a valid excuse for them not to be on the scene— KID’s words, not his! That Stupid bastard of a phantom thief had written exactly that into his note! Honestly, the nerve of this kid! 

The Task Force were professionals, and they certainly weren’t that stupid! Scratch that— They weren’t stupid at all! KID was just unreasonably intelligent! 

If the plan failed because of that, it would literally all be KID’s fault! Nakamori huffed from where he had strategically placed himself on roof, giving him a perfect view over the garden where the fountain was located.

A few moments after the last officers had disappeared into the building, an amused laugh echoed through the night and the remaining ‘officer’ ripped off his uniform, revealing a familiar white suit. KID made a show of sauntering over to the plate the riddle was imbedded on, humming a cheerful tune that echoed through the otherwise silent night. 

What a dramatic little asshole. 

It didn’t stay silent for long though, as just a few moments after KID knelt down to inspect the puzzle, loud footsteps, completely unlike KID’s naturally quiet ones, echoed through the garden. A to him unfortunately by now familiar group of men in black poured into the garden, lead by the same man in a trench coat the Task Force liked to call Snake-Bastard. 

KID stood up slowly, hands in his pockets and the picture of confidence. “Ah, Good Evening, Snake.” He greeted, voice smooth. “What brings you here on such a beautiful night?” 

“Cut the Bullshit, KID.” Snake growled. “You know exactly why I’m here.” 

“Do I?” KID asked innocently. Snake —and Nakamori thanked every god out there twice for that— ignored him.

“Solve the riddle, KID.” Snake commanded in a tone that indicated zero tolerance for bullshit. “And if you so much as twitch the wrong way, I will—“ 

“— shoot me, I know.” KID sighed. “And here I was hoping you’d come up with some other threat by now…” 

“KID.” Snake said, tone warning. 

“Yeah, yeah…” KID muttered… probably. He was too far away to hear, but the rolling of eyes indicated it had to be something like that. KID crouched down again, studying the stone plate closely. Snake walked closer up to him and— 

—SHIT! 

That Bastard was pointing his gun directly at KID’s head— perfect position to shoot the thief the second he solved the riddle! Fuck! See this— This is why you shouldn’t leave strategy planning to a teenager! No matter how intelligent said teenager was! 

KID didn’t react to the gun digging into the back of his head with anything beyond freezing for a second and then continuing on as if nothing happened. 

Again, one hell of a Pokerface, but that didn’t change that this was not a part of the plan! And they couldn’t do anything! Nakamori suddenly found himself wishing they had brought real weapons. Officer Sasaki was a good shot, even from this far of a distance. If needed, he would be able to blow that bastard’s brain out. 

It was brutal. It was extreme. KID probably wouldn’t approve, possibly even resent them for it. But honestly? If it was between that and KID getting shot in the head, he would chose being resented any day. Zero hesitation. 

But that wasn’t something to worry about because they didn’t even have lethal weapons on them! Because KID refused the use of any lethal weapons! Or more accurately, he’d specifically said not to use any lethal weapons unless absolutely necessary, so they just hadn’t taken any at all! And he’d also asked them not to shoot Snake at all. 

Nakamori wasn’t so naive to believe it was out of kindness. 

KID might not intend to harm or kill Snake, but the thief wanted him alive for some kind of revenge. And if he thought that whatever obscure way of revenge he was going for with his plan would be worse than pain or death for the bastard, then Nakamori was all too happy to leave him to it. 

But not if it was that or KID’s life! 

Nakamori gave a sign with his hand, and five of his men started moving closer to the scene of events with determined nods. If it seemed like Snake would shoot, they’d hopefully be able to taser Snake quicker than the man could pull the trigger… Hopefully. 

( It was unlikely. It was really fucking unlikely, but Nakamori ignored that and focused on the things that actually mattered right now.) 

A few— Four, Nakamori was keeping count no matter how much he tried to stop—  more minutes went by, all spent tensely watching as Snake got more and more impatient with KID, who was still staring at the plate in the ground. Occasionally he hmm’d or touched it as if looking for some hidden mechanism. Nakamori honestly couldn’t tell if he was actually struggling to figure it out or just buying time to think of something. 

When the clock hit 1 am, Minute Eight, Snake suddenly growled and pushed the gun further into KID’s head. KID didn’t react with more than a small tilt of his head to indicate he was listening. 

“Stop with your damn play for time and solve the damn riddle, or trust me, I will blow your fucking brain out. ” Snake threatened. KID, like the idiot he was, didn’t really react and just hummed. 

“Of course, Snake.” KID replied, sounding about as threatened as a lion was by a mouse. (Or about as threatened as Kaitou KID was by the police. )

Snake narrowed his eyes, before a smirk took over his face. “Or maybe we’ll pay your police friends a visit.” KID actually stiffened at that, just as planned, so Snake continued, smugness basically radiating off of him. “They don’t use lethal weapons, so I don’t think they’d be able to defend themselves against us very well… Or maybe I’ll tell my men pay little Kaito a visit instead.” 

What? 

“What?” KID repeated, sounding absolutely… shocked. Why? 

Kaito… Definitely not Kaito Kuroba, even if Nakamori had to admit that was the first person he thought of.  KID definitely knew a Kaito though, and judging by his unfiltered reaction, they were close. And the way Snake had empathised little… If they didn’t know KID was a minor, he would’ve assumed it was his son but if that’s not it…

Did KID have a little brother?! Like, an actual child?? And they— If they knew about this Kaito, then they also knew who KID was. Or had suspected it, and with his reaction, KID had confirmed it… Oh fuck! 

No, seriously, FUCK!

“Don’t tell me you thought we’d keep him out of this little game forever, KID?” Snake replied, grinning in a completely unflattering way. The way he empathised KID’s moniker very much indicated that he knew his real name and only continued calling him by the false one to mock him. “But don’t worry, just tell me the solution to the riddle, and we’ll have no need to visit anyone.” 

Fuck! This had been blown out of proportion so horribly so quickly! Nakamori shuffled, wanting to do— something— When KID spoke again. 

“Pandora’s Box.” Was all the Thief said. Nakamori and his men stiffened. That was— 

“What the hell are you talking about.” Snake growled. 

“It’s the solution to the riddle.” KID answered evenly, voice betraying nothing beyond a small hint of bitter amusement. Nakamori didn’t understand why, but it was probably part of KID’s acting. Because they were going through with the plan. “The answer is Pandora’s Box.” 

It wasn’t, obviously. That was the code KID specifically said he’d tell Snake if everything was still on track. Nakamori was pretty sure the thief had chosen it solely for the reference to his Heist Notice, in which he’d described the presented gem as ‘Pandora’ . 

Inputting it was wrong, because it wasn’t the right answer, and so obviously activated the trap. Not Ms. Izanami’s trap though, but the one with the electric nets the Task Force had convinced her to add. The woman had been confused why they wanted electric nets for only one answer, but went along with it because she trusted their expertise. 

Typing in Pandora’s Box into the little keyboard next to the fountain caused nets to go off, anything other than the right answer caused the whole place to be encased in a giant cage. 

KID was telling Snake their code, which meant the plan was still ongoing. Idly, Nakamori wondered if this was an actual possibility KID had planned for, or if he was just that determined. 

Snake didn’t seem impressed though, face just darkening. 

“Stop with your damn jokes and tell me—“ 

“It is, though.” KID said. “Very ironic, isn’t it? Considering this one is it.” This one was what? Nakamori was getting the feeling that they were missing information again. 

“…You input it.” Snake finally said, grabbing KID by the arm and dragging him up roughly. Good… just like KID had predicted. Everything would be going perfectly if it wasn’t for one tiny detail… 

Snake’s gun was still positioned at the back of KID’s head, and the bastard moved over to the keyboard with KID. Which was a problem, because the nets were strategically placed in a way that they wouldn’t trap the person inputting the code. That way, KID would have been completely safe from any electronic shocks. 

But now Snake was there too. And even if the trap worked and everyone else was caught, that asshole still had a gun pointed to KID’s head. 

KID didn’t seem to think of that as a problem though, seeing as he began typing with only a second of hesitation. Nakamori heard the fabric of their uniforms shift as they tensed in union. 

A few seconds of hesitation, then KID pressed the Enter Button. The small screen turned a bright red, and a taunting error sound echoed through the night as Snake stiffened. There were Multiple clicks. The sound of something flying at high speed. 

Then there were grunts as the unfortunately standing shooters were swept of their feet by the nets. 

A gunshot rang out— 

A scream. But not KID. Or any of the Task Force Members. Nor someone from Snake’s trigger happy group.  

Snake screaming—? 

The criminal staggered back, clutching a bleeding hand with a murderous expression on his face. His gun had been dropped onto the floor, laying out of Snake’s reach, but very well within KID’s. The thief didn’t hesitate, and soon Snake was the one with a gun pointed to his head. 

Someone had shot Snake. 

No one in the Task Force had lethal weapons and Snake’s group was trapped under electric nets, unconscious.  And yet someone had shot Snake. 

As he gave his men the signal to move forward and arrest, Nakamori’s eyes were darting around their surroundings. No one in the nearby forest, no one with them, the only person on the balcony— 

Ms. Izanami. 

The woman was leaning on the balcony, observing the scene with wide eyes. There was a black bag next to her. 

For someone witnessing KID attempt to steal her gem, she’d been very quiet. No outraged shout. No taunting about the hardness of the riddle. Nothing. Which could be explained by the fact that there had been a literal hostage situation ongoing until a fee moments ago, but what about before that? 

What about when KID had seemingly lured Nakamori and his men away? When he had revealed himself and started solving the puzzle? She hadn’t even attempted to come get them to come back! 

Nakamori’s eyes fell on the bag next to her. It was certainly big enough for a weapon— 

“Inspector!” Officer Ishida said, jogging up to Nakamori, who shook his head. He had more important things to do right now. As long as Ms. Izanami was only shooting at Snake and not KID, he’d turn a blind eye. “We’ve successfully restrained everyone! No injuries— Well, except Snake’s hand.” 

Nakamori grinned, walking over to where Snake was fuming at them from where KID had just finished tying him up on the floor. Seeing that assholes anger only made Nakamori grin wider, and he gave KID a pat on the back. 

“Good job, KID.” He said, probably the first positive words about the thief that had ever left his mouth while in his vicinity. Had he said it mostly to spite Snake? Absolutely. 

“My, such high praise coming from you, Keibu!” KID teased in response, getting up from the floor. At Nakamori’s unimpressed look, he added:  “But I’m honoured, really!”  Nakamori just shook his head in a way he refused to admit was fond. 

“Don’t get used to it, br— bastard.” Nakamori corrected last moment, remembering the presence of a certain asshole named after poisonous animal.  Said asshole was watching their interaction with a look of absolutely bafflement and uneasy, like it was the most unnerving thing the guy had ever seen. 

“So the Task Force works with Kaitou KID now?” Snake grit out. Abruptly, a grin took over his face. Nakamori was met with a wave of unease at that look. KID, as he always seemed to, didn’t even react beyond a small tilt of the head. “I wonder what your superiors are gonna think about that.” 

Ah. That. 

“About what?” Nakamori asked. “As far as I’m aware, none of us worked with KID. Not tonight nor anytime else. I’m sure the Task Force knows that too.” 

Snake stared at him. Like he couldn’t believe they would all collectively lie about something. Maybe because they were cops, or maybe he overestimated how much they disliked KID? Which, actually, just assuming they disliked KID at all would be the mistake— It was more like irritation towards an unruly child who wouldn’t stop stealing the last cookies. 

Which was actually quite the fitting expression— 

“Really? And what if I just say otherwise while being questioned?” 

“Like they’d believe anyone who claims we would help KID.“ Nakamori scoffed. “Even just the idea is completely outlandish—“

“Is is really though?” KID pouted. 

“— unbelievable —“ 

“I’m actually a delight to work with!” 

“— and would never happen ever in a million years—” Nakamori continued, shaking his head in agitation. 

“It’s literally happening right now.” KID deadpanned.

“— And everyone knows I hate that bastard!! As if I would ever work with him.” 

“Ouch, that hurt! A lot!” 

Nakamori ignored that. “And as far as I’m aware, a group of men with guns showed up at the heist and happened to walk into our trap instead of KID, and KID himself disappeared in the chaos— but conveniently didn’t manage to take the gem with him. Nothing of us working with KID at all!” 

“Really?” KID said, a smirk appearing on his face. “Because as far as I know, the whole Task Force and this mysterious group of criminals completely misinterpreted KID’s heist notice, and their beloved Thief—“ Nakamori snorted at that in disbelief. “— Never actually showed up, because the heist will actually take place two days later!” 

Nakamori actually stiffened at that. There was no way… 

“Don’t tell me… you little bastard made the date ambiguous?!” 

“Maybe I did, maybe I didn’t.” KID replied cheerfully. “Or maybe there’s a third option you don’t even know about! But either way, Kaitou KID was never here tonight!” 

Nakamori rolled his eyes, but made a mental note to revise the cover story with the rest of the Task Force. He glanced at Snake, who—

Holy Shit?! 

Snake was staring at KID like he was seeing him for the first time ever. Like KID had destroyed some fundamental fact of life for this guy, somehow. By saying a bunch of small sentences that were mostly nonsensical bullshit, of all things. 

Either Snake was really attached to the image the bastard had of KID and the Task Force, or he was missing something. Again. He was getting fucking tired of it, but knowing KID, the little brat wouldn’t explain anything. 

“There’s no way you’re Toichi.” Snake blurted out, sounding absolutely appalled. And what?? Toichi?? Like Kuroba Toichi?! Snake thought—

“You think Kuroba Toichi is Kaitou KID?!” Nakamori blurted out as response, sounding even more appalled than the bastard in front of him because?? What?! 

How stupid could someone even be?!

“Oh, yeah.” KID said, seemingly apathetic. Seemingly because you could never be sure with KID. “I forgot about that weird theory of yours.” 

“It’s not a weird theory!” Snake protested, scowl on his face. “It fits!” 

“…Sure.” KID answered, shrugging. “If you think so.” 

“There’s no use in acting unbothered!” Snake growled. “I know the truth!” When KID just continued staring blankly, his scowl deepened. “Kuroba Toichi was always holding magic shows wherever KID was holding heists. His last name literally means Clover!” At this, he gestured to the clover symbol. “He’s a magician!” 

Meanwhile, Nakamori was still staring at Snake, wondering how the fuck someone could be that wrong in literally every way. So not only was Snake a bastard, he was also a stupid bastard dishonouring the memory of Nakamori’s good friend Toichi Kuroba. 

He inhaled, trying very hard not to punch that bastard in the face. 

He was so relieved that this wasn’t a public heist, because then Aoko and Kaito would have been there. God knows Kaito never really got over his father’s death, and the poor boy didn’t need some fucking asshole dragging that up again.

The urge to punch Snake doubled. 

“Kuroba Toichi is literally dead.” Nakamori finally said, exhaling and looking up onto the sky to avoid looking at that stupid, idiotic, brainless imbecile ! 

“That’s what that bastard wants you to think!” Snake insisted. “Even I thought I killed him!” Wait what. “But he just took a break! That bastard just decided to disappear for a few years to fuck with me!” 

Nakamori stared. He was pretty sure he was in shock or something. Because Snake just admitted to have killed Kuroba Toichi. Toichi who was supposed to have died in an accident during his show. But it wasn’t an accident, because Snake had killed him. Snake killed not only KID, but Toichi too. 

He killed two of Nakamori’s friends. 

He was the reason KID, a literal teenager, was forced to parade around in a white suit at night while being shot at. 

He was the reason Kaito never was truly completely himself again. 

Nakamori had never hated anyone more in his entire life. 

“Well, that’s egotistical.” KID abruptly rejoined the conversation. “To think that my break had anything to do with you. Well, sorry to disappoint, but I was just busy with something else.” 

“Bullshit! You can act as childish and different as you want, but you’re still Kuroba Toichi!” Snake repeated, like saying it again would make his stupid conspiracy theory true. “You never denied it!”

“Why would I?” KID retorted, shooting Snake a look that screamed ‘You’re a fucking idiot’. “I’m not Kuroba Toichi, and the real one is dead. I figured it wouldn’t harm anyone if I let you think you know my identity.” 

“You little bastard—“ 

“Wait.” Nakamori said, holding up a hand. “When you were talking about a Kaito earlier—“ 

“He was threatening the Kaito that’s your neighbour, yes!” KID confirmed cheerfully. “I’ll be honest, I may have forgotten he exists when letting you believe your little theory, so I got a bit flustered when you brought him up earlier.” 

Ah. So that’s what that had been about. 

“Don’t even start!” Snake shouted. “You can lie as much aa you want but—“ 

Nakamori turned, and walked away. There were a few moments of silence, then some very light footsteps signalled that KID was following him. 

“Keibu?” The thief’s voice was worried. Of all things. “Are you alright?” 

“I’m fine.” Nakamori dismissed, gritting his teeth in barely contained anger. 

“Are you sure?” KID pressed, having caught up and now walking right next to him. “You seem…upset.”

“… I’m angry.” Nakamori admitted after a few moments. Like angry could even begin to cover how he was feeling right now. Utterly fucking furious would fit better, but even that felt to mild. If he hadn’t left in right that second, he wasn’t sure what he might’ve done to that fucking… asshole! 

Nakamori was tempted to invent a new insult just for Snake because none he knew felt insulting enough for that man ! 

“…I get that.” KID answered, a sympathetic smile on his face. And yeah, he probably did. But at the same time he couldn’t connect the image of this nonviolent teenage Phantom thief with the burning feeling of utter hatred in his chest. KID just…didn’t seem capable of feeling that much pure, unbridled hatred. He was better than that. 

But then again, KID had one hell of a poker face.  

He’d proved that much time after time during the last year. KID could probably mask his emotions almost perfectly. Almost, because no one could hide their emotions completely. It was against human nature. And KID had shown genuine emotion before— very often actually. 

When something went wrong at heists, KID was genuinely nervous, if even just for a few seconds before his brain spit out an escape plan. When he’d panicked over the Task Force’s involvement in this, he’d been genuinely upset. When Snake had threatened to bring Kaito into this, he’d actually been surprised. 

But Nakamori had the feeling that what he’d seen barely even scratched the surface of what was going on inside the mysterious phantom thief. 

“…You’re not actually Toichi, right?” He asked, just to be absolutely sure. It made entirely no sense— KID was literally a teenager. Toichi’s corpse was— well, no body had been left, but some remains of his old friend had certainly been buried. It made no sense for KID to be Toichi. 

But he just wanted to be sure of at least one thing right now.

“No.” KID answered, voice full of something. It sounded like a weird mix of admiration and sadness. “Kuroba Toichi was murdered eight years ago. And realistically, the two of us aren’t even comparable on the topic of magic tricks.” 

Nakamori rolled his eyes in annoyance. Damn KID and his weird magic superiority complex—

“I could never hope to be as good as him.” KID finished softly. 

Nakamori actually halted in his steps, that’s how shocked he was. 

His fury was almost forgotten as he turned to catch a glance of the look on KID’s face as he stated that.  With a certainty to it, like it was a fact of life. Like Kuroba Toichi would always be superior to the thief simply by having existed. Which was so unlike competitive and passionate KID that it made Nakamori’s head spin. 

His eyes found nothing but the cool air of the night, KID nowhere to be seen. 

— 

The next morning, after a night spent with reports and drinking an unhealthy amount of alcohol, Nakamori would get a call telling him about the mysterious escape of one Snake from the police station.