"What do you mean by 'relatively safe'?" Michio demanded, his grip on the phone tightening. He exchanged quick glances with his friends, all of whom were now listening intently to the conversation.

"Just a little insurance, my dear detective," Adeline purred, her voice dripping with mischief. 

Michio meanwhile squirmed in the police car as Adeline's voice on his smartphone was so loud he was sure everyone in the car could hear every word. He pressed the phone even closer to his ear, "Adeline," he blurted out her name before he could stop himself "What do you want!?"

"Michio, is that all you can say?" she purred."I've missed you. I know you think I'm a bad girl, but now I have a chance to prove that I'm not." 

"You lunatic girl! What have you done with those two!" Junko snapped over Michio's phone as he winced at her loud volume.

"Oh, don't worry about them too much, dear Junko. They're alive, for now." Adeline's laughter echoed through the phone, a chilling sound that sent shivers down their spines.

Takuma, Emiko, and Junko exchanged worried glances, their anxiety growing with each passing second of the call.

"What do you want from us, Adeline?" Emiko's voice was firm, her determination evident.

"I would've wanted to play a little game with all of you," Adeline replied, her tone sugary sweet. "But sadly, I have plans that would need to put those games in a back seat."

"Enough with your games, Adeline!" Michio's patience was wearing thin. "Tell us where they are!"

Besides Michio, Junko fought down her jealousy towards Adeline.

Adeline's laughter tinkled on the other end of the line. "Ah, the urgency in your voice, Michio. It's quite charming. But before we get to the location of your precious friends, I thought we could have a little chat. A friendly exchange of information, shall we say?"

"What could you possibly want to chat about?" Takuma's voice was laced with scepticism.

"Oh, you know, detective stuff," Adeline replied casually. "Tell me, who is the real founder of Tantei Association?"

The question hung in the air like a heavy fog, the tension within the police car palpable. The young detectives exchanged wary glances, their minds racing as they tried to navigate the dangerous game Adeline was playing.

"Why do you want to know about the founder of Tantei Association?" Emiko's voice was steady, though her suspicion was clear.

"Because it is clear-cut that Michio isn't the one," Adeline chuckled, her voice dripping with amusement. "One of you who kept on sabotaging my Tousan's plans is a very smart cunning child, and that child is clearly using Michio as a shield. So rather than any of you lying, I figure it is better to set the record straight by asking the association members themselves?"

Emiko's eyes narrowed as she weighed the options. "And what assurance do we have that you'll keep your end of the bargain?"

"Oh, you have my word as a Snake," Adeline purred, her voice dripping with honeyed promises. "I'm a girl of honour, after all. Once you provide me with the information I seek, I'll tell you where your friends are. Simple as that."

Michio glanced around the car, gauging the expressions of the other members, Takuma shook his head violently at the eldest member, warning him not to reveal Ranran's name.

As he took a deep breath, his mind racing while attempting to navigate this treacherous conversation.  Meanwhile, Junko was about to blurt out Ranran's name before Emiko made a grab onto her shoulder, giving her a warning glare.

"Why can't we just tell her it is Ranran? I am sure she can take care of herself." Junko hissed lowly at the artist.

"If we ever revealed Ranran's identity, our families are going to go broke. Do you want that to happen!?" Emiko finally broke the silence, her voice filled with conviction.

Revealing Ranran's identity as the real founder of Tantei Association would be a dangerous move, even more so for the rest of the members for many unsaid reasons. Unlike Shinichi's family, Ranran comes from a family of real-life nobles. It may have been the 21st century, but the legacy and influence of certain noble families still held weight, especially in the world of high society and politics.

If exposing Ranran to her enemies and adversaries was bad enough, the same couldn't be said for the rest of the members. Since Ranran is the first official daughter within the Kudo family after 100 plus years if they say her name, all of the member's families are likely to face the wrath of the Kudo's matriarch family, and possibly even unwanted media attention.

And the reason the members knew this was clear: One prestigious family did face such wrath and never recovered, and everyone in Beikai District knew about it.

Around 10 years ago, there was a prominent family known as the Kiwatari (極力) in Beikai District. They were highly respected and held a position of influence in both business and politics. And if one is to admit, they were way more influential than the Suzuki and the Kudo family back in the day.

However, a series of unfortunate events led to their downfall.

One of the children who was then a high-schooler was involved in a scandal that exposed their corrupt business practices and connections to organized crime. The worst part was when it was revealed one of the members of the Kudo family was the victim.

The Kiwatari family's reputation plummeted as the scandal unfolded, and their once-impeccable standing in society crumbled to ashes. The revelation that they had victimized a member of the Kudo family was a final blow, tarnishing their name beyond repair. This was surprising and shocking because the Kudo family was as wealthy as the Kiwatari family, their influence and power were merely weaker than the Kiwatari's.

Despite the Kudo family's lesser influence compared to the Kiwatari family, they were surprisingly able to bring the Kiwatari family to their knees in front of their mansion, begging them to show them mercy. Which was unheard of, since the Kiwatari family was in everyone's eyes, arrogant and untouchable.

The Kiwatari family's assets were seized, their reputation shattered, and they were left in ruins. The family was disgraced, and they faced public humiliation and condemnation. The Kudo family's involvement in bringing them down only added to their humiliation. Even the media frenzy that followed was relentless, tarnishing the Kiwatari family's reputation and exposing their dark secrets to the public eye. The family's name was dragged through the mud, and their social standing crumbled overnight.

As a result, the Kiwatari family faced immense pressure and scrutiny. They were ostracized by their peers, abandoned by their allies, and faced multiple lawsuits and legal battles. Of course, the family did attempt to salvage their reputation but ultimately failed.

Soon, their business empire collapsed, and their influence in the district vanished without a trace. 

The memory of the Kiwatari family's downfall haunted the rich families of Beikai District a lot ever since, serving as a stark reminder that even the most powerful can fall from grace. The incident sent shockwaves through the community and left a lasting impact on the district's collective consciousness.

Knowing the devastating consequences that befell the Kiwatari family, the members of the Tantei Association understood the potential repercussions of exposing Ranran's true identity. The Kudo family, with its history and influence, could easily create a similar storm of scandal and unwanted attention that could affect the families of every single member of the association, which would be the last thing they would want to happen. Considering the remaining members in this car here are from middle-income families, the fallout from such a scandal could be catastrophic.

Silence hung heavily in the police car as they processed the weight of their situation. The realization that even well-intentioned actions could have far-reaching and unintended consequences was a heavy burden to bear. They were caught in a dangerous game, and the stakes had never been higher.

"You can't utter out Ranran's name, definitely no! That is out of the question!" Takuma gave Michio a warning look.

They had this discussion before with Shinichi, that they are not to under any circumstances reveal Ranran's identity as the main founder, or else, the family will face legal lawsuits. Not even if they were tortured, blackmailed, or had their families held hostage, not a single child is allowed to bring this up. This particular rule was added recently to the Tantei Association's updated contract for members should they agree to retain their membership. 

As ridiculous as the rule sounds, Shinichi being a fair person did announce that the members are allowed to leave the association should they refuse to. The reason he added this rule wasn't merely to protect Ranran's identity, but also to use it as a justification to get Mouri Ran to quit. Unfortunately, Mouri Ran's jealousy that Shinichi was happier with Ranran did little to discourage her despite the unfair terms.

Even so, the apprentice who set such unfair conditions for them wasn't without a plan.

Which is why, as Michio pressed his smartphone to his right ear, he naturally executed the plan Shinichi had set out for every single member should a situation like this one occur, "It's Shinichi, the founder is Kudo Shinichi."

Adeline's laughter echoed through the speaker as soon as Michio uttered Shinichi's name. It was a chilling sound, laced with a mixture of amusement and intrigue.

"Well, well, well, it seems we have a hero in our midst," Adeline purred. "Kudo Shinichi and he is only 6-years-old. How very interesting."

"She bought the lie, didn't she?" Takuma whispered to Emiko.

Emiko nodded subtly, her eyes narrowing as she focused on Michio's conversation with Adeline. The tension in the car was palpable as they all hung onto every word, their fate resting on the fragile thread of this risky deception.

"Very well, Adeline. You've got your answer. Now tell us where our friends are," Michio's voice was firm, his determination evident.

"Patience, dear detective. I never said I wouldn't keep my end of the bargain," Adeline replied with a chuckle. "Your friends are being held in a safe location, I will tell you where the warehouse is."

She gave him the address of the warehouse. Michio scribbled it down on the back of his hand.

This voice suddenly carried an edge of fear"Just in case my father knows where they are, you should rescue them quickly."She paused. "Well, aren't you going to thank me?"

"I can't right now," Michio mumbled as Junko kicked his foot.

He killed the call and punched in Sergeant Genzo's smart number before Junko could say anything.

"Sergeant, The Snake's daughter just rang. Here's where you'll find Shinichi and Ran-san!"

...............................................................................

Back at the warehouse, Mouri Ran and Kudo Shinichi who were abducted hours ago remain silent, as a figure was silhouetted by the light from the passage outside.

That is when Shinichi sprang at his opponent and held him in a strong grip. The said figure struggled wildly, kicking back at Shinichi, trying to throw him off balance. But he tightened his hold around the said guy's neck and forced him down to the floor.

Suddenly, he heard Ran scream "Shinichi! Let him go! It's Rokuro!"

Shinichi relaxed his grip. He swung the intruder around and saw the handsome features of a boy his own age. Ran was on her knees beside Rokuro. He was panting and gasping for breath." I hope you haven't hurt him!" she told Shinichi.

Shinichi froze, his grip loosening slightly as his brain processed Ran's words. Rokuro? It couldn't be... But the figure struggling beneath him did seem familiar, even in the dim light. He reluctantly released his hold, allowing the person to scramble back, gasping for air.

As the figure stood up, panting heavily and rubbing his neck, Shinichi's eyes adjusted to the darkness, and his heart sank. It was indeed Rokuro, the same bastard Rokuro whom Ranran had chosen over him, the same Rokuro who had attacked Ranran in the Tantei Association HQ.

Rokuro's eyes locked with Shinichi's, a mix of surprise, anger, and humiliation flashing in his gaze. He had clearly not expected such a violent reaction from Shinichi, let alone being caught in a chokehold. As he caught his breath, he shot a resentful glare towards Shinichi, his pride wounded by the humiliation of being overpowered.

"What the hell are you doing here?" Shinichi's voice was a low growl, his fists clenched at his sides. The rush of emotions he felt at the sight of Rokuro was overwhelming – anger, betrayal, and a twinge of jealousy that he couldn't quite suppress.

"You didn't hurt him, did you?" Ran worriedly inspects Rokuro.

Shinichi glared at her in the feeble light, "Not as much as I'd have liked" he snapped impatiently. Ran's concern for Rokuro was beginning to irritate him.

His irritation soon turned to surprise when Ranran, Shinichi's partner in crime who was behind Rokuro ran into the room, "Huh, I was right. You both are fine."

"Ranran!" Shinichi was glad to see her, though, not the jealous Mouri Ran though.

Ranran rushed into the dimly lit room, her bangs falling over her eyes as she assessed the scene before her. Her presence seemed to bring a sense of relief, her unwavering determination and no-nonsense attitude providing a stabilizing force amidst the tension.

"Shinichi, let's not make things worse," she said calmly, giving him a pointed look. "We need answers, not more conflicts."

Shinichi's frustration was palpable, his gaze locked onto Rokuro's form as he stood there, still catching his breath. He felt torn – the desire to confront Rokuro about his actions and Ranran's insistence on maintaining a level head.

"You!" Rokuro's voice trembled with a mix of anger and embarrassment as he pointed an accusatory finger at Shinichi. "What the hell is your problem? Attacking me like that?"

Shinichi took a step forward, his own anger simmering beneath the surface. "My problem? You have the audacity to show up here after what you did to Ranran?"

Ranran stepped between them, her gaze shifting from one to the other. "This is not the time for personal conflicts. Rokuro, you need to explain why you're here. Also, all of you should lower your volume, or they'll hear us."

The tension in the room remained palpable as the 4 children faced off, their emotions and frustrations intertwining in the dim light. Ranran's presence seemed to be the only thing preventing an all-out confrontation, her calming influence a stark contrast to the turbulent emotions of Shinichi and Rokuro.

Rokuro's expression shifted from defiance to begrudging acceptance as he realized that Ranran was right. He took a deep breath, his pride still wounded but a begrudging sense of cooperation settling in.

"Fine," he muttered, his eyes avoiding Shinichi's gaze. "I took a cab after you pressed charges through the cops, about to surrender myself after contacting Mouri, and then I witnessed Mouri being kidnapped."

"To cut a long story short, he rushed over to where we were having our lunch but then overheard one of the adults witnessing your kidnapping, Shinichi. So in the same cab he hadn't left, he saw me chasing after the car you were dragged in and invited me over. I ran for an hour. It was hell." Ranran wiped the sweat off her forehead, "Did try to call for a cab, but it is peak hour."

Shinichi's anger began to wane as he listened to Rokuro's explanation, though a flicker of resentment still remained. He couldn't deny the relief that washed over him when he realized that Rokuro wasn't directly involved in their kidnapping.

"Fine, so you're not here to cause more trouble," Shinichi muttered, his voice still tinged with frustration.

Rokuro rolled his eyes. "No, Sherlock. I came here to help, believe it or not."

"Help? Why would you want to help us? Are you sure you are not trying to cause more problems for me?" Shinichi's scepticism was clear, "How did you know where were we dining by the way?" growled Shinichi.

"Ask Mouri Ran, she still couldn't keep her damn mouth shut and told Sonoko about it," Ranran rolled her eyes and glared at Mouri Ran.

Mouri Ran lowered her gaze, sheepishly rubbing the back of her neck. "Sorry about that. I didn't think it would lead to this," she admitted, her tone apologetic.

Shinichi's irritation grew towards Mouri Ran, "When this is over, you are leaving out an association for good."

The tension in the room eased slightly as the truth behind Rokuro's unexpected appearance became clear. While suspicions and frustrations still lingered, the immediate threat seemed to have been diffused. Ranran's straightforward explanation and Rokuro's begrudging acceptance of cooperation had temporarily bridged the gap between them.

"Wait a minute, why would Sonoko tell you where I was dining at?" Mouri Ran began to wonder.

"He was going to apologize to you, for that fake feud which he lied that Shinichi instigated, you welcome."

Ranran's revelation made Ran stare at Rokuro in horror, "Oh, were you!?"

Suddenly, Ran was pissed. "I appreciate this, but I have been meaning to ask....how could you lie to me?!" Ran's voice trembled with a mixture of fury and hurt. She had trusted Rokuro, despite Shinichi's warnings, and now she felt like a fool for falling for his manipulative ploy. 

"I didn't think it would be that bad, cause you and Shinichi always reconciled regardless," Rokuro said nervously.

"Oh no, you had no idea of the hell I had to deal with after you lied!"Ran unleashed her anger, "Because of that lie, Shinichi had no interest in patching up with me anymore, and he kept on listening to that she-demon here! Did you know all of the hell I had to deal with because of her!?" Ran confronted Rokuro as she pointed at Ranran.

Rokuro gulped audibly, a bead of sweat forming on his forehead.

Ranran simply raised an eyebrow at his comment, seemingly unphased by Ran's outburst. "Oh, I'm the she-demon now, am I?" She crossed her arms, a hint of amusement playing on her lips.

Shinichi couldn't help but smirk at Ranran's retort, finding a sense of satisfaction in the fact that someone wasn't afraid to stand up to Ran when she was angry.

Ran's face was flushed with anger, and she looked as if she might explode any second. Her fists were clenched at her sides, and she took a deep breath, trying to regain her composure.

"Hei, I wouldn't have done it had you not simply gotten yourself kidnapped and ended up here, you know!?" Rokuro told her defensively. "I ain't going to say I regret not following you. This is already overall, the fourth time you were kidnapped since kindergarten."

"What Rokuro said, I can't deny this either, "Shinichi frowned at Ran as he nodded in agreement while folding his arm, "Forth it is."

"Forth time?"Ranran repeated those words, before looking at Shinichi, "When did that happen?"

"One was when we were younger around pre-school, the second time was our first major case, the third time was when you hijacked that plane in the 'King of Rubies' case, "Shinichi explained to Ranran, "The fourth is the recent one, which we are still in the midst of solving."

"Man....that is pure stupid!"Ranran shakes her head in disapproval.

"You know, I rarely agree with Shinichi on this. But yes, I am starting to see a pattern of stupidity."Rokuro nodded in agreement.

"I can't believe this!"Ran swung around onto the three of them, "All three of you are currently ganging up on me like that! And I just got kidnapped alongside Shinichi for Pete's sake! How insensitive all of you could be?! Especially Ranran! You're all the same! You're just so childish!''

"Childish but ain't stupid enough to be fooled multiple times."Ranran rolled her eyes at her.

"Well, at least we have this all sorted out."Rokuro struggled to his feet before he looked at Shinichi. "We've got to get out of here. I don't know how many men they got guarding the both of you, which is why Ranran and I came down from the roof."

"That is true."Ranran nodded.

"Then let's leave by the same way," Shinichi said.

Ranran soon led them from the storeroom and along the passage. Rokuro and Shinichi kept glancing back to make sure they weren't being followed, while Ran held her stony silence.

Another three flights of stairs brought them to a door that opened onto the deserted roof. A brick parapet surrounded it on all sides.

"I climbed over from the next building," Rokuro explained.

They peered over the ledge onto the roof of the warehouse next door. Lights shone from some of the windows.

Rokuro hauled himself up onto the parapet, swung himself over the top, and dropped down to the other side. The three of the children soon followed. Mouri Ran, still sulking, refused any help.

They walked across to a stairwell and made their way down to the street safely

................................................................................

"Mouri! Matte yo!"

Shinichi caught up with Ran at the bus stop while Ranran and Rokuro just silently followed him. When he touched her shoulder, Ran pulled away before she spun round and flung her rage in his face. "I didn't ask for Rokuro to chase after me, and I didn't ask all of you to talk crap about me with Ranran!"

"But we were not. We are telling the truth."Shinichi said.

Ranran is merely pinching her nose bridge while Rokuro who is silently observing this couldn't help but ask Ranran silently, "Is this what you had to deal with back in Tantei Association?"

"Everyday, without fail. For the past 2 months." Ranran sighed.

Rokuro was astounded by Mouri Ran's behaviour, never seen this side of his crush for the first time acting so recklessly while endangering herself. Is this the Mouri Ran he knew?

Ran's anger was palpable, her eyes blazing with intensity as she confronted Shinichi. "I don't need your protection, Shinichi! I can take care of myself. Talking crap about me behind my back!"

"It what way are we insulting you!? Those were actually documented things you did throughout the association! Also, what do you mean I would protect you? I am trying to ensure you don't do anything irrational so that you don't end up endangering all of us!"

"I don't care," Ran snapped, her voice sharp. "I am quitting!"

"Eh!?"

"You heard me! I am quitting the association! For good!"

Rokuro cleared his throat, stepping forward cautiously. "Um, guys, maybe we should all calm down a bit?"

But then theRanran tugged at his shirt a bit, shaking his head at Rokuro's attempt to mediate. "I wouldn't bother, since you will end up stepping into a war zone."

Rokuro sighed in frustration, realizing he was stepping into a situation far more complicated than he initially thought. It seemed like the tension between Shinichi and Ran was deeply rooted and not easily diffused. He looked over at Ranran, the young version of her calmly observing the scene with an almost knowing expression.

"Alright, then," Shinichi said, his tone surprisingly calm given the intensity of the situation. "If you've made up your mind, Ran, I won't stop you."

Ran's eyes widened slightly at his response, perhaps expecting more resistance from him. She blinked, taken aback by his unexpected acceptance.

Rokuro, on the other hand, exchanged surprised glances with Ranran. It was clear that they hadn't anticipated this turn of events.

"Shinichi, you're not going to fight for me to stay?" Ran's voice wavered a hint of confusion in her eyes.

"As I said before when Ranran and I opened Tantei Association on day 1, the members have the right to make their own decisions," Shinichi replied, his gaze steady. "If you feel that leaving the association is what's best for you, then I respect that choice."

Secretly, Shinichi is hoping for it to be the case, after all the things she had caused to Ranran and the others, this would be a clear-cut break for good.

Ran stared at Shinichi, her anger beginning to waver as his words sank in. She had expected a fight, an argument, maybe even an attempt to convince her to stay. But his calm acceptance was throwing her off guard.

"Shinichi..." Ran began, her voice softer now, uncertainty creeping into her expression.

"What, are you going to backtrack your word now? Just like what you did with Shinichi when Rokuro falsely accused him?" Ranran crossed her arms, she too is hoping Mouri Ran leaves them for good.

Ran's eyes darted to Ranran, a mix of surprise and frustration evident in her gaze. "Why are you always meddling when we don't need you!?"

"Meddling?" Ranran scoffed at Shinichi's former friend, "Who is the real meddler? Shinichi genuinely wants to become a Tantei, which is why he took the apprenticeship under me. You on the other hand had nothing but a sick obsession with wanting Shinichi back, when he made it clear he doesn't want to see you anymore, that you kept on ruining and endangering everyone's lives in Tantei Association. So as the founder, I had the right to intervene!"

Ran clenched her fists at Ranran's words, her frustration evident as she glared at the younger girl, but she held her tongue, choosing not to push further for now.

"Ranran is right, Mouri, make a decision," Shinichi spoke firmly.

Ran took a deep breath, her emotions in turmoil. She looked from Shinichi to Ranran, her eyes searching for some clarity. It was clear that her decision had taken an unexpected turn, and she was grappling with the weight of it.

"I..." Ran began, her voice wavering as she struggled to find the right words. 

"Mouri, don't use Shinichi as an excuse anymore." Rokuro stepped forward, his expression sympathetic. "I may not have been a member of Tantei Association, but it's clear you don't like Tantei work, so what is the point of remaining there? Also, Sonoko told me how many times you shed your tears everytime you are there."

She opened her mouth to respond, but no words came out. Ran's cheeks flushed with embarrassment at Rokuro's words, her anger momentarily forgotten as she stared at him in surprise.

"This is from the view of her good friend." Ranran raised an eyebrow at her reaction, clearly enjoying the discomfort on Ran's face.

"Mouri, are you sure about this decision? Don't you go back on your word?" Shinichi glanced between the three of them, his expression a mix of curiosity and concern. 

Ran's gaze shifted from Rokuro to Shinichi, her internal struggle evident in her eyes. "I... I don't know. I thought I wanted to be a part of it, but maybe I'm not cut out for it."

Ranran sighed in exasperation. "Finally, some sense out of you."

"It's okay, Mouri. Not everyone is meant for the same path." Rokuro gave a small smile, his gaze softening.

Ran clenched her fists at Rokuro's sympathetic words, her inner turmoil intensifying. She felt a mixture of frustration, embarrassment, and a twinge of regret. She had rushed into joining the association, driven by her desire to be close to Shinichi again, without fully considering if it was the right fit for her.

But out of all of this, the thing that angers her the most....was that Ranran won.

That she had Shinichi wrapped around her little finger! That now she is no longer a member, Shinichi will no longer need to see her anymore.

Now, faced with the reality of the situation and the candid observations of her one friend, Mouri Ran had to confront the truth. "I... I'm sorry for everything. For the way I acted and for causing trouble, Shinichi."

"Shouldn't you apologize to one more person?" Shinichi brought Ranran before her, "For all the things you and Sonoko had done to her?"

Ran's gaze shifted to Ranran, and for a moment, a conflicted expression crossed her face. 

But then as soon as Mouri Ran saw the bus, she decided, "No! I won't apologize to that she-demon!" before she stormed into the bus.

The bus doors closed behind Mouri Ran, leaving a stunned silence to the two boys observing all of this, while Ranran let out an exasperated sigh, rolling her eyes. "Well, that went well."

Shinichi shook his head, a mix of amusement and frustration in his expression. "She really is something else."

Rokuro chuckled softly, still processing the whirlwind of emotions and interactions he had just witnessed. "You guys sure have an interesting dynamic."

"You have no idea," Ranran replied, her tone dry. "Anyway, we should probably catch the next bus and head back to the Tantei Association HQ."

Shinichi nodded in agreement, turning to Rokuro. "You're coming with us, right?"

Rokuro hesitated for a moment before nodding. "Yeah, I'm in."

 ................................................................................

In the second bus, Shinichi and Rokuro shared the same sitting, while Ranran was on her own.

According to Ranran, as much as Shinichi didn't like to sit right next to his nemesis, after hearing Ranran's narration about Rokuro being a manipulated victim of Mamiko, she insist to the apprentice that he and Rokuro should talk things out.

The bus ride was a mix of tension and awkwardness. Shinichi and Rokuro sat side by side, their gazes occasionally meeting before quickly darting away. Ranran, sitting a few rows ahead, observed them with a knowing look, occasionally glancing back to check on their progress.

After a while, unable to bear the silence any longer, Rokuro let out a sigh. "There...has been something I have been meaning to ask."

Shinichi turned to him, his expression guarded but curious. "Yeah?"

"Ranran...I've heard what Ranran said," Rokuro hesitated, his words carefully chosen. "I...about you being manipulated by Mamiko and Sonoko to be married off to Ran by discouraging your dream as a Tantei repeatedly, as well as the part that you broke into Ranran's house to get her to quit when you were duped into thinking that Ranran purposefully used connections to become a child Tantei to insult you....were all of this true?"

Shinichi's gaze remained steady as he regarded Rokuro. He had expected this conversation to come up at some point, and while he felt a sense of reluctance to revisit those memories, he knew that addressing it was necessary for them to move forward.

"Yes," Shinichi replied with a nod, his voice calm and measured. "What Ranran told you is true. Mamiko and Sonoko manipulated me into believing those things and pushed me towards that plan. I was angry and confused, and I acted impulsively."

"Unbelievable!"Rokuro's brows furrowed as he processed this information, his expression a mix of surprise and understanding. "I...would not have guessed that the most righteous boy in the whole of Teitan Elementary school...would be capable of such a thing."

Shinichi's jaw tightened at Rokuro's words, a mixture of guilt and frustration washing over him. He couldn't deny the truth in Rokuro's statement – he had let his anger and hurt cloud his judgment, leading him to make choices he wouldn't have otherwise. It was a harsh reality to confront.

"Truthfully, there were issues brewing between me and Sonoko long before you lied about that feud," Shinichi replied, his voice tinged with self-criticism. "Things had gotten so bad, that I actually decided to immerse myself in the 'lost and found' department to locate missing wallets and bentos in school so that I don't have to deal with them anymore. But then they ended up using it against me, assuring me that I was wasting my time pursuing this Tantei dream."

Rokuro nodded slowly, absorbing Shinichi's words.

"The day I ended up breaking into Ranran's house...it was a very humbling experience."

Recalling the gun torturing detail from Ranran, Rokuro pressed, "So that part that she used a gun to torture you was also true?"

"It's hard to believe it, but that girl is capable of the worst."

Shinichi's words sent shivers to Rokuro, "But she is a 6-year-old like you!"

"An unusual one, that is for damn sure," Shinichi sighed, his gaze distant as he recalled that painful memory. "She knows how to hotwire a car, slip poison into people's drinks, could creatively come up with all sorts of torture, a sharpshooter too if I may add. Especially her level of scheming is...it puts my own intelligence to shame."

Rokuro's eyes widened in astonishment at Shinichi's description of Ranran's capabilities. He had known that Ranran was no ordinary child, but hearing about her skills and cunning from someone who had experienced them firsthand was another level of realization. "I was assuming when Ran-san told Sonoko of such....stories, she was overly exaggerating." Rokuro mused.

"Exaggerating is an understatement when it comes to Ranran. She's... unique, to say the least." Shinichi's lips twitched into a wry smile while the two stared at Ranran sitting at the back, texting on her smartphone.

Rokuro followed Shinichi's gaze, a mixture of awe and wariness in his expression as he observed Ranran. "And she's your partner in all of this?"

Shinichi nodded, his expression a mix of fondness and exasperation. "Yeah, she's the brains behind most of our operations. Despite her... unorthodox methods, she's incredibly resourceful and skilled. I wouldn't have been able to solve many of the cases without her."

Rokuro leaned back in his seat, still trying to process the revelations he had just heard. "No wonder Ran-san was jealous."

"Eh? Did she admit this to you?"

"Last night at the family diner when I met up with her, she told me so."

Shinichi blinked in surprise, not expecting Rokuro to bring up his conversation with Ranran. "Oh... I see. Well, it's not exactly a secret that she felt that way."

Rokuro glanced at Shinichi, his expression a mixture of curiosity and sympathy. "Was it bad when Mouri Ran was around these past two months?"

"It was hellish," Shinichi sighed, his gaze softening as he looked out the window. "There was never a day that goes by, that me and Ranran pray for Mouri Ran to quit someday and leave us be."

Rokuro studied Shinichi's profile, sensing the mixture of relief and frustration in his words. "And now that she's leaving the association, how do you feel about it?"

"Very relieved," Shinichi's gaze remained focused outside the window, his expression contemplative. "At the same time...I am scared she will come back."

"Scared she'll come back? But you just said you're relieved she's leaving." Rokuro raised an eyebrow, surprised by Shinichi's conflicting emotions.

"When it comes to her hatred towards Ranran, especially jealousy, don't be surprised how she goes back on her own words." Shinichi sighed, running a hand through his hair. "It would be better if she keeps her word."

The bus ride continued in relative silence, both Shinichi and Rokuro lost in their thoughts. Ranran, still a few rows ahead, occasionally glanced back at them, her expression a mix of amusement and curiosity. "Neh Rokuro, may I ask you something?" Shinichi asked.

"Sure, go ahead," Rokuro replied, turning his attention back to Shinichi.

Shinichi hesitated for a moment before speaking, his voice slightly hesitant. "What drove you to think that I was looking down on you because of your background?"

"You are good at soccer," Rokuro sighed, his gaze turning distant as he recalled his past, "Way better than me if I were to admit it."

Shinichi looked at Rokuro with a mixture of surprise and understanding. "Soccer? That's what you thought was the reason?"

"In Teitan Elementary, you were always the star player, the one everyone looked up to." Rokuro nodded, his expression somewhat resigned. "Although I ain't half as bad, I felt like.... no matter how hard I tried, I could never match up to you. Everytime I see you play, Mana always said that if you were not born with the privilege, you would've been scouted by the professional soccer scouters the other day, yet, when they picked you and you turned them down, it felt like an insult."

"But I wanted to be a Tantei since the beginning, I told everyone at soccer club before." Shinichi reminded him.

"I know, but at that time...Mana said you were merely saying it to squash my chances."

"Mana had been a professional liar after his Okaasan passed away, also, if I did all those things, would I bother to break into Ranran's house, Rokuro?"

Rokuro's expression shifted, his brow furrowing as he absorbed Shinichi's words. "I never really thought about it that way. I just... It felt like you were always one step ahead, excelling in everything you did. And when that opportunity with the scouts came, I guess I let my own insecurities take over. Especially when I found out through Mana that Ran had a crush on you...."

"You can have Mouri if you want," Shinichi suggested dismissively, "At least I don't have to see her anymore and work on my dream as a Tantei."

"After hearing all of that through Ranran that all of that were Mamiko's manipulations...I don't think I will be asking Ran-san out anytime after that." Rokuro chuckled.

Shinichi chuckled in response, a sense of relief evident in his expression. "Yeah, well, I think you're making a wise decision. Focus on what truly matters to you and don't let anyone's manipulations or insecurities define your choices."

As the bus neared their destination, Rokuro cleared his throat, breaking the silence. "Shinichi, I know I've caused a lot of trouble and hurt you in the past. But I want to say...I am sorry from the bottom of my heart."

Shinichi turned to Rokuro, his gaze steady. "Actions speak louder than words, Rokuro. If you're sincere about this, then prove it through your actions."

Rokuro nodded determination in his eyes. "I will. I know I have a lot to make up for, and I'm willing to do whatever it takes to earn your trust and the trust of the others."

Once the bus arrived at one of the bus stops Rokuro is about to leave, Shinichi said, "By the way, about the charges of you attacking Ranran at the HQ, I will get the police to drop it."

Rokuro's eyes widened in surprise at Shinichi's statement. "Wait, really? You're going to drop the charges?"

"Ranran is the one who suggests I should, or else you will lose your soccer dream."

"Kudo...."

"I am not doing this just because I had forgiven you," Shinichi scoffed, "Being a victim of Mamiko's manipulation myself, it would seem unfair that I press the charges onto you solely. Also, it would be a shame if a promising soccer player I once looked up to lose his dream job because of those charges. Plus, it will weigh heavily on my conscience as a Tantei."

"Eh!?" Rokuro's expression shifted from surprise, "You used to look up to me?"

"Of course, which is why I joined the soccer club in the first place, seeing you as to how you dribbled the ball." The detective apprentice gave an annoyed look.

Rokuro chuckled, shaking his head to a mixture of gratitude and determination. "Thank you, Kudo. I promise I won't let you down."

Shinichi nodded a sense of resolution in his gaze. "Make sure you prove yourself, not just to me, but to everyone else too. Actions have consequences, and it's up to you to show that you're truly committed to making amends."

"I will, I'll work hard to earn back everyone's trust," Rokuro affirmed.

As soon as Rokuro headed down the steps, he shouted before the bus door closes, "Hey Kudo!"

"Hmph?"

"Your Tantei dream, don't ever let anyone stop you from living it!"

Shinichi's lips curved into a small smile at Rokuro's words. "I get it."

With a final nod of understanding and a shared sense of determination, the bus carried Shinichi and Ranran, leaving Rokuro to head to his destination.

In the bus, Ranran then came out of the bus with a mischievous glint in her eyes. "So, did you guys have a heart-to-heart talk?"

Shinichi nodded. "Yeah, we did."

Ranran smirked, clearly enjoying the discomfort on Shinichi's face. "Good. Progress is progress, no matter how awkward it is."

"Right," Shinichi agreed, a hint of a smile tugging at his lips before he decided to switch topics, "On the other hand, I can finally look forward to the days in Tantei Association, now that Mouri Ran has officially quit."

"Ah, the sweet taste of victory. It seems my efforts have finally paid off." Ranran's eyes sparkled with mischief as she leaned in slightly.

"You're really enjoying this, aren't you?" Shinichi rolled his eyes, though there was a playful glint in them.

"Well, can you blame me? I did have to put up with a lot of her nonsense." Ranran shrugged, a sly grin on her face.

"Even so, I am worried she will go back on her word," Shinichi had mixed feelings about this crossing his arms, "Then I would end up celebrating all for nothing."

"Leave that to me, Kudo Shinichi. I have a plan for that," Ranran replied, her expression confident. "If she tries to come back, I'll handle it. After all, she'll be dealing with the same Ranran who made her life a living hell for the past two months."

Shinichi raised an eyebrow, a mix of amusement and concern in his gaze. "You're not going to go too far, are you?"

Ranran shrugged nonchalantly. "Oh, come on, I'm not that heartless. But a little scare wouldn't hurt, right?"