6-year-old Matsuyuki Reina held two positions within the school of Teitan Elementary School.

One of her roles was none other than the youngest-ever President of the student council. Despite her tender age, Reina demonstrated a remarkable level of maturity, leadership, and organizational skills that were far beyond her years. Her fellow students, as well as the school staff, marvelled at her ability to bring together different groups of children, address concerns, and foster a positive and harmonious school environment. Under her guidance, the student council became a well-structured body that actively contributed to various school activities, initiatives, and events.

Reina's second position was that of the head of the class in 1-A.

Her classmates often looked up to her not just because of her leadership role but also because of her kind and caring nature. Reina had a unique way of making everyone feel valued and included, creating a classroom atmosphere where learning was not just about textbooks but also about fostering friendships and understanding.

In the mornings, she could be seen standing at the entrance of the school, welcoming her fellow students with a warm smile and cheerful greeting. Her genuine interest in the well-being of others and her willingness to listen and help made her a popular figure among both students and teachers.

Reina's ability to balance her responsibilities as the student council president and her role in the classroom was nothing short of impressive. She managed her time effectively, often involving her classmates in various student council projects and encouraging them to contribute their ideas and talents.

As Reina continued to grow and flourish, her classmates and teachers eagerly anticipated the impact she would undoubtedly have on the world. With her boundless energy, compassion, and leadership, there was no doubt that Matsuyuki Reina was a young girl destined to leave an indelible mark on the hearts and minds of those around her.

However, wrong her, however, and she will prove that age is just a number when it comes to determination and resilience.

Especially, if one messes with her best friend, Kudo Ranran.

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

Kudo Ranran and Matsuyuki Reina had an unusual friendship, unlike most children.

Due to the unique circumstances of facing injustice in life, Reina often heavily relied on Ranran when such troubles occur. Especially when Reina's cousin, Matsuyuki Moriko, became a victim of Ishibashi Mamiko's bullying.

To get to where she is today, Ranran's cunning and scheming skills brought her to where she is today. Which is why to this day, Reina felt like she owed Ranran a lot, even though the red lip detective girl reassured her that she doesn't. The only thing Ranran had ever asked her to follow, was to not interfere in any trouble Ranran had to deal with. Because Ranran didn't want other kids to project wrongly that Reina had 'favouritism' towards Ranran whenever the detective girl had to deal with it since they are both friends.

But after hearing from Hikari Takuma, Reina's boyfriend, over the unreasonable harassment Ranran had to put up with Mouri Ran, especially for the past 2 months in Tantei Association, that was the last straw.

Reina couldn't stand by any longer, knowing that her friend was facing such difficulties. Especially the recent break-in that resulted in Ranran being hospitalized was something Reina knew she had to take matters into her own hands.

Last night, Takuma called her, and the additional details were rather....an unusual wake-up call for Reina.

"She admitted WHAT!?"

After hearing what Takuma revealed following the next phone call, "Tak-san," Reina began, her voice that very careful calm that belied a very dangerous anger. "Exactly how long has this been going on?"

"How long is unclear, but the bottom line is this girl is nothing but bringing danger to Shinichi and Ranran's life, and we can't let this continue."

Reina's jaw clenched, her fists tightening. "She doesn't care, does she?! If she ends up getting Ranran killed!?"

"She lost Shinichi to Ranran, so she had nothing to lose. So I am extremely worried, Reina. That Ranran will not survive this."

Outrage burned in Reina's eyes, she replied, "Don't worry, remember the plan I said I will prepare for her? I have plans to make things so much 'easier' for them."

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

The following day in school, as soon as the teachers were away, Reina had to address the issues in class 1-A.

She stood at the front of the classroom, her expression serious, yet determined. The chatter and noise in the room gradually died down as all eyes turned to her.

"Boys and girls of class 1-A," Reina began, her voice carrying a weight that demanded attention. "Before...I discussed some unsettling issues, let's begin with our upcoming class trip. As you are all aware, about that one time when all of us were stuck on some island with a serial killer for the past 2 miserable weeks of our lives...I am sure that all of us still had PTSD with that camping trip, don't we all?"

A chorus of nervous laughter rippled through the classroom as Reina's words hit home. The memory of the traumatic camping trip was still fresh in everyone's minds, and her mention of it struck a chord.

"That said, however, is why I had to bring this to our attention," Shuffling the papers, she announced, "Mr Miki...the former climbing instructor from the recently shut down Kodama Forest camp, how many of you still remembered him?"

A few hesitant hands went up in response to Reina's question. The mention of Mr Miki, the climbing instructor from the infamous camping trip, brought back memories of their harrowing experience.

"Right," Reina continued, her expression growing more serious. "Well, he's been trying to reach out to our school and...feeling bad for that harrowing experience he had put us through, thanks to that 'decision' he made to save the majority of the survivors by sacrificing one person which later lead the serial killer to almost kill us all....he has offered to organize another trip."

There was a murmur of uncertainty among the students. The idea of another outdoor adventure, especially one involving rock climbing, after their previous traumatic experience was met with mixed feelings.

"This trip however will not include the outdoors anymore, nor put us at some island in the middle of nowhere," Reina retrified.

"Eh!?" Everyone gasped in surprise.

"We will be going to.... an amusement park, this one in New York City," Reina announced, her tone reassuring. "In case you are all wondering, no, it will not be one in the countryside to avoid confusion."

"The amusement park in New York City?" A wave of excitement and surprise swept through the classroom. The idea of an amusement park visit was certainly a far cry from their previous camping trip experience.

Reina continued, "I've been in touch with the staff at the amusement park, and they've assured me that they have a variety of fun and thrilling attractions that cater to different interests. There will be rides, games, shows, and plenty of delicious food to enjoy."

The students exchanged glances, their apprehension slowly turning into enthusiasm. The prospect of a day filled with amusement park rides and entertainment was undeniably appealing.

"But, Reina-chan," one of the students raised their hand, "How are we going to get to New York City? It's so far away!"

"Plus, I don't think our parents can afford it," Another one groaned.

"Don't worry about that," Reina reassured, acknowledging the valid questions being posed to her. "Now, how many of you were aware of his relations with the Yasuo family, put your hands up."

Several hands went up in the classroom, a mix of curiosity and surprise evident on the students' faces. Reina's mention of Mr Miki's connection to the Yasuo family captured their attention.

"Now....since he is the last remaining heir through blood, considering everyone in the Yasuo family had died under....'unusual circumstances'," Reina refrained herself from bringing up the word 'murder', "To those who are unaware, the Yasuo estate had decided to contact Mr Miki, and he reluctantly agreed to take on his role as the heir."

Gasps and whispers filled the classroom as Reina dropped this bombshell. The Yasuo family's tragic yet twisted history was well-known among the students, and the revelation of Mr Miki's connection to the family was both surprising and intriguing.

Takuma who is listening to all of this can't help but muttered, "What was Mr Miki thinking? I mean his stepmother abused him, and his dad pay no heed to anything before the two of them were deceased."

Ran and Sonoko who were listening to this were astounded by the news as well. "I can't believe he would willingly sell out his soul to get the inheritance." Ran was in shock.

"Then again, anyone would." Sonoko scoffed, "My parents are friends with some of the others who knew the Yasuo family, and I remembered the Yasuo's are worth millions of yen, so who wouldn't want to take up the money?"

As the students continued to discuss and process the surprising information about Mr Miki's connection to the Yasuo family, Shinichi shook his head, "For someone like Mr Miki, a kind decent guy to take the money....man, money can change a person."

"Don't think of it that way," Ranran argued, "You don't forget, Kichiro, the serial killer who also happens to be Mr Miki's step-brother, had caused such mayhem on that island that we were in, that when the press began covering about the series of murder Kichiro had caused, Mr Miki was forced to sell of Kodama Forest camp at a low value, a camp activity centre that he and his murdered wife, Jun, opened for only 2 weeks. Adding salt was that he was on the brink of financial ruin due to the negative publicity of the Yasuo family having committed so many cover up for so many crimes behind closed doors. In desperate circumstances, taking up the Yasuo inheritance might have been the only way he saw to secure a future for himself."

"But, Ranran, from our second major case, 'The Illegitimate Extra', Namba Katsumi, who is now legally Seto Benjiro, turned down the offer to change his surname to 'Tadashi' when offered a huge sum of the inheritance, he turned it down despite being on the run for so many years. If Seto Benjiro can do it, surely Mr Miki could do it without selling his soul." Shinichi pointed out.

"Seto Benjiro isn't the same as Yasuo Miki," Ranran then listed out her points, "In a way, although both of them had crappy parents that committed a series of crimes behind the scenes, they each had different life experiences and personalities. Seto Benjiro had already been living on the run and managing to survive for years without the inheritance, so turning it down might not have been a difficult decision for him. Yasuo Miki on the other hand although I admit didn't rely on his privilege as the son of a mistress, he never once had to make a decision solely based on himself, but for other's sake, which is why he was led into this mess in the first place. He also had the burden of his wife's murder, plus the murder of his university friends, and the negative reputation attached to his family name. It's possible that he saw the inheritance as a way to regain some control over his life and secure a better future for himself. It's a complex decision influenced by many factors."

"I see your point," Shinichi conceded. "Now that I look back, I almost forgot that he had a miserable marriage with Jun, because his deceased mother-in-law drugged her own daughter and him to trick them both into a marriage."

As the students continued to discuss the complex situation surrounding Mr Miki and the Yasuo family, Reina regained their attention.

"Regarding the trip to the amusement park in New York City," Reina resumed, her tone decisive. "Mr Miki has generously offered to cover all expenses for the trip, including transportation, accommodation, and admission fees."

A murmur of surprise and gratitude rippled through the classroom. The news that the trip expenses would be fully covered was met with a mix of excitement and relief.

"But, why?" One student raised their hand, a curious expression on their face.

Reina smiled, her eyes reflecting her understanding of the student's curiosity. "Mr Miki has expressed his sincere regret for what happened during our previous camping trip, and he genuinely wants to make it up to all of us. He believes that this trip to the amusement park will help create positive and lasting memories for our class."

"Plus, the amusement park has state-of-the-art security, so no worries about any serial killers showing up," Takuma chimed in, trying to lighten the mood.

The students chuckled, the tension in the room easing slightly. Reina's careful planning and thoughtful consideration of their concerns were evident, and her reassurances brought a sense of comfort to the classroom.

Reina continued, "I understand that some of you might have reservations or concerns, and that's completely understandable. We want this trip to be an enjoyable and stress-free experience for everyone. If anyone has any questions or hesitations, please feel free to come and speak with me, and I'll do my best to address your concerns."

With that, Reina concluded her announcement about the upcoming amusement park trip. The students seemed more at ease and excited, their initial scepticism giving way to a sense of anticipation for the fun adventure ahead.

But then the following words shift the mood gradually, when Reina said, "However, not everyone will be joining us on this school trip."

A hush fell over the classroom as Reina's words hung in the air. The students exchanged puzzled glances, their curiosity piqued by her cryptic statement.

Reina paused for a moment, allowing the anticipation to build before she continued, her tone serious yet determined. "I have learned that not everyone in our class has been treating our fellow classmates with the respect and kindness they deserve. There have been instances of bullying, exclusion, and hurtful behaviour that have no place in our classroom or our school."

A murmur of agreement and understanding rippled through the students. Reina's words struck a chord, resonating with their own observations and experiences.

"As the head of our class and the youngest-ever student council president, I am committed to fostering a safe and supportive environment for all of us," Reina declared. "And that is why, after careful consideration and discussions with the school staff, certain individuals will not be joining us on the amusement park trip."

Gasps of surprise and speculation filled the room as the students tried to process Reina's announcement. The tension in the air was palpable as they awaited further clarification.

"I want to be clear that this decision was not made lightly," Reina emphasized. "It was made with the well-being and happiness of our entire class in mind. Every one of us deserves to feel valued, included, and free from any form of mistreatment."

Reina's gaze swept over the classroom, her eyes locking onto each student's as if conveying a message of solidarity and support.

"For those who will not be joining us on this trip, I urge you to reflect on your actions and consider the impact they have on others," Reina continued. "This is an opportunity for growth and change. I believe that each and every one of us has the capacity to learn, improve, and contribute positively to our class community."

Takuma, who had been listening closely, couldn't help but nod in approval. Reina's stance was clear and unwavering, and her commitment to creating a positive and inclusive environment was evident.

"And may I ask, who are those kids not joining us?" One of the kids quipped.

"You all know who is it, after my friend was knocked unconscious with a taser baton, I decided I had to do something." Reina did not need to bring up the names, but seeing Mouri Ran and Suzuki Sonoko turning pale, "This may have taken place outside the school, but the club activities of the 'association' were registered as a school club, therefore, after much deliberation with the school council, everyone agreed that the actions of certain individuals within the association have reflected negatively on our school's image. As a result, Mouri Ran and Suzuki Sonoko have been temporarily suspended from participating in the class trip."

Gasps and whispers spread throughout the room as Reina's words sunk in.

Ran, who was seated among her classmates, exchanged a glance with Sonoko. Both of them looked stunned, their faces a mix of disbelief and anger.

"Temporary suspension?" Sonoko's voice trembled with a hint of defiance. "This is ridiculous! That incident took place outside the school grounds!"

"Also, I had no idea that Rokuro was going to attack Ranran when it happened!" Ran argued.

"But Shinichi who is Ranran's apprentice had specifically put the recent terms about leaking out the location to anyone under the contracts, friends too shouldn't be allowed to tell anyone, right?" Reina reminded them. "How did you think Rokuro was able to know where the HQ is if Ranran wasn't attacked? That she published it on the website?" Reina mocked.

"You can't simply do this! This is an abuse of power just because you are Ranran's friend!" Sonoko shouted in anger.

"Exactly!" Ran barked, "Especially when Ranran charged her family 700,000 yen! That was uncalled for!"

Amidst the tense atmosphere of the classroom, Reina held her ground, her expression determined. "If this is an abuse of power, when was the last time I ever intervene in any of your arguments between Ranran, you and Mouri Ran over the course of 2 months?"

The room fell silent as Reina's question hung in the air. Ran and Sonoko exchanged another glance, their anger momentarily overridden by confusion. They had to admit, Reina had been surprisingly neutral in their disputes, always maintaining a distance and rarely showing any favouritism.

"As far as I am aware, I ain't the type to do things out of personal vendetta. Though I am very tempted to," The head council started off, leaving the girl's words spread like wildfire. "But as much as I am aware that Mamiko did dupe the two of you...this had crossed the line." And there it was - the overflowing anger that spat from her voice had their classmates lurching back in their seats, fear riddling them but no one looked the slightest bit sorry towards who she was referring.

"Bashing her head led which led to her being hospitalized again...when one tells you not to leak the location to anyone, especially your closest friend, follow the damn rule! And yet...it seems like that very someone who attacked Ranran....had not learned their lesson, let alone, regretted it. Since the attacker can't afford to pay for medical fees, it's only fair the person who caused and was born with a gold spoon should foot her medical fees, yeah?"

In the aftermath of Reina's bold announcement, the classroom remained in tense silence. Ran and Sonoko, though initially defiant, now found themselves grappling with the reality of their situation. The weight of their actions hung heavily in the air, and the severity of their offence was undeniable.

Reina took a deep breath. 4 more minutes.

With her gleeful expression spiralling in a wave of disappointed anger towards Ran and Sonoko. "It's sickening. I know Ranran said nothing about this since she can handle it. Whenever we are on school grounds, she tells me to always puts my title as head council first, her friend second. This is to avoid favouritism. And I agreed with her. But...after hearing what Takuma personally had to witness the harassment those two girls put her through, in addition to the witness account of Majima Michio and the other members, let alone, Shinichi...I had to do something. Therefore, I had a meeting with the members of the committee, and they all agreed with me on one thing: I had to make an example. Therefore, for the first time, I am going to punish the two mentioned."

It brought a mild satisfaction to Reina, the fear that drained them of their usual rosy colours, the fearful looks. They get what they deserve.

"The first school trip we have planned overseas starting tomorrow onwards, Suzuko Sonoko, you are banned until you make a full official apology to Ranran. In addition, Mouri Ran, though we won't punish you since you genuinely had nothing to do with it, you were not 100 percent innocent since your part in this led to Ranran's medical injury, hell, you even harassed your former friend, Kudo Shinichi, for over 2 months when he did nothing to provoke either of you! You are going to have to write a report, mentioning 'I am sorry for harassing Ranran and Shinichi' 1000 times. The submission date is after tomorrow. Which also means you have to write it even while on a trip."

"You-"

"Of course, you can choose not to write. Apologize to the two children in front of us now, and you may leave. But judging your behaviour after receiving the reports from the majority of the members within the association, I am guessing a no. Oh yeah, I even notified both of your parents in person, so neither of you could get your parents to schedule the both of you on a private trip." A small, chided titter escaped Reina, her eyes washing over the 2 students. "And they agreed, this punishment is befitting. So what would it be, Mouri? Apologize, or not?"

The weight of their transgressions hung in the air, and Ran and Sonoko exchanged a solemn glance.

Bursting into tears, Ran yelled, "I won't! I won't apologize to that she-demon!"

Before everyone knew it, Mouri Ran rushed out of the classroom in tears.

In the wake of Mouri Ran's emotional departure, a sombre atmosphere enveloped the classroom. Even Shinichi isn't pleased with this, seeing his former friend being defiant and unremorseful towards the things she and Sonoko did to his mentor.

"Suzuki, what about you?" Reina gave a contempt glare at the one-brain cell heiress.

"I....won't apologize." Sonoko decided.

Amidst the tension and disbelief, Sonoko's words hung heavily in the air. The entire classroom seemed frozen, trapped in the gravity of the situation. Reina's expression didn't waver; if anything, it hardened, her disappointment deepening.

"Very well," Reina responded evenly, her voice carrying a weight that echoed through the room. "Your decision has been noted, Suzuki Sonoko. You are both excused from the class trip starting tomorrow."

Sonoko's eyes widened, and for a moment, a flicker of panic danced across her features. The reality of her choice seemed to have finally sunk in. She exchanged a quick, searching glance with Ran, who was nowhere in sight.

The rest of the students exchanged whispers, glances, and shocked expressions. Reina's decision was firm, and it was clear that she had the support of the committee members. The actions of Mouri Ran and Suzuki Sonoko had indeed crossed a line, tarnishing the reputation of the school and causing distress among their fellow students.

Reina's gaze shifted to the clock on the wall. "Time's up," she declared, her voice unwavering. "Class dismissed."

As the students began to shuffle out of the classroom, a heavy silence enveloped Sonoko. The weight of her decision bore down on her shoulders, and she felt a growing sense of regret and isolation. Her defiance had cost her not only a much-anticipated class trip but also the respect and trust of her peers.

Even so, she couldn't be bothered by that.

Right now, she needs to look for Mouri Ran, and she knows where to look for her.

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

Mouri Ran often heads to the washroom to cry.

In the dimly lit school washroom, Sonoko found Mouri Ran standing by the sink, her shoulders trembling with the weight of her emotions. Tear stains streaked her face, and her hands were clenched into fists. Sonoko's heart ached at the sight, realizing the extent of the pain she had caused her friend.

"Ran..." Sonoko's voice was softer now, devoid of the defiance that had marked her earlier.

Ran's head snapped up at the sound, her eyes red and swollen. "Sonoko? What are you doing here?"

"To check on you," Sonoko spoke with concern.

As much as Ran tried to be brave, it was difficult, "Sonoko, do you think it was our fault that it happened?"

"How can it be our fault?! It ain't as if we told Rokuro to go and attack Ranran on purpose!"Sonoko stepped closer to Ran, her expression sombre.

"I know we didn't intend for that to happen, but... maybe Reina is right in some ways," Ran admitted, her voice tinged with regret. "When I was a member there, I shouldn't have told you where our main HQ was, otherwise.....Rokuro wouldn't have done this to Ranran, and we wouldn't be in this predicament."

Ran wiped her tears away with the back of her hand, her emotions still raw. "I just can't believe this is happening, Sonoko. We were supposed to go on that class trip together, make memories, and now..."

"I know, Ran. I know," Sonoko replied, her voice gentle.

"Our lives had gotten bad, ever since....." Ran sniffed, "I should've trusted Shinichi when Rokuro lied that Shinichi instigated the feud instead of him."

"But you didn't know back then that Rokuro had feelings for you, which is why he lied in the first place. Let alone, Mamiko doing all those crap to us," Sonoko sighed.

Ran's shoulders slumped, and she leaned against the sink. "I wish I could turn back time and make different choices. I wish I could make things right."

"Ran...."

"If I had believed in Shinichi back then, he wouldn't have become an apprentice of Tantei Association, let alone, pair up with that she-demon!" Ran snapped when she referred to Ranran by that name.

Sonoko placed a comforting hand on Ran's shoulder, offering a reassuring squeeze. "Ran, you can't blame yourself for everything that's happened."

Ran let out a shaky breath, her anger mixing with her sorrow. "I know, Sonoko. It's just... seeing Ranran and Shinichi observing us as if we both had committed murder and were being put on trial at the courthouse... it's overwhelming."

"I know, that sucks....." Sonoko replied, her voice soothing. "But now you don't have to deal with them anymore, right? Since you officially quit Tantei Association?"

"True, but we are in the same class, Sonoko!" Ran whined, "I don't know how much longer I can tolerate her and Shinichi together!"

"That's true!" Sonoko growled at that, "I was thinking after these past 2 months, Shinichi would be able to see what we are seeing towards Ranran, like those romance dramas we have watched, the manipulated male lead always ended up finding out the villainess is a schemer, that he finally walks away from her to be with the heroine. Clearly, this doesn't seem to work in real life!"

"Yeah, real life is far more complicated than those dramas make it seem." Ran chuckled weakly, the first glimmer of a smile touching her lips.

After pondering this bit for a minute, Sonoko decided, "Why don't we try to expose Ranran, then? As The Fox?"

Ran's eyes widened in surprise at Sonoko's suggestion. "Expose Ranran? Are you serious, Sonoko?"

"If you think about this, the entire crap happen because of the rumors Mamiko told me to spread. That Ranran is The Fox. And I was certain when I was at the ramen shop, I did confirm her two friends addressing her as The Fox. If that lie is confirm to be the truth, then we will get Shinichi back!"

"But Sonoko, That's a risky move. What if it backfires and makes things worse?"

Sonoko leaned against the wall, crossing her arms. "Well, we need to do something, Ran. We can't just let her continue manipulating Shinichi and tarnishing your reputation."

"But how do we even begin to expose her? And what if Shinichi doesn't believe us?" Ran's voice wavered with uncertainty.

"We gather evidence," Sonoko replied determinedly. "We start by documenting her actions, her lies, and any manipulation we can find. And as for Shinichi, we just have to make sure our case is strong enough that he can't ignore it."

Ran sighed, the weight of their situation heavy on her shoulders. "It won't be easy, Sonoko. Ranran is clever, and she's been at this for a while."

"I know it won't be easy, Ran, but we have to try," Sonoko said, her gaze firm. "We owe it to ourselves and to Shinichi to expose the truth."

Ran looked at Sonoko, a mix of determination and fear in her eyes. "Alright, let's do it. Let's gather evidence and bring Ranran's true colours to light."

Sonoko nodded, a small smile playing on her lips. "We're in this together, Ran. We'll take down The Fox and make things right."

As they stood in the dimly lit washroom, a new sense of purpose filled the air. Ran and Sonoko were no longer just victims of manipulation; they were determined to fight back, uncover the truth, and protect their relationships and their own well-being.

Little did they know, their journey to expose The Fox was just beginning, and it would lead them down a path of unexpected twists, danger, and revelations that would forever change their lives.

And it won't do good for the two.

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

"That is so cool! You are heading to the Big Apple!"

Meanwhile, at the main HQ of Tantei Association, Michio, Emiko and Junko were astounded to hear about Ranran, Shinichi and Takuma heading their first-ever school trip overseas.

"I mean after that hellish camping trip you all had to endure, this must be a reward from Heaven!" exclaimed Michio, his eyes wide with excitement as he leaned against the table in the main HQ of Tantei Association. Emiko and Junko stood beside him, sharing his amazement.

"I know, right? I can't believe it either. It's going to be such an amazing experience!" Takuma grinned, his excitement contagious.

"Yeah, it's a dream come true. I've always wanted to visit New York. The last time I went there, I was around 4." Shinichi nodded in agreement, a smile tugging at the corners of his lips.

"That is so cool," Emiko who dreams of becoming an artist exclaimed, her eyes sparkling. "You'll get to see all the famous landmarks, like the Statue of Liberty, Times Square, and Central Park!"

"I'm honestly jealous," Junko chimed in. "New York is known for its diverse culture, amazing food, and vibrant arts scene. You guys are in for a treat!"

"I can bet that Mouri is going to be thrilled with Sonoko, heading on this same class trip." Junko thinks.

"About that, she and Sonoko won't be joining us," Ranran chuckled.

The room fell silent as Michio, Emiko, and Junko exchanged puzzled glances. "Wait, what? Why not?" Michio asked, his eyebrows furrowing.

"Well, let's just say they had a little run-in with Reina, and it didn't end well for them." Shinichi leaned against a nearby wall, a mischievous smile playing on his lips.

"Reina? Ranran's best friend, right?" Emiko's eyes widened. "What happened?"

Then, Shinichi recounted the events that had transpired, how Reina had taken a stand against their behaviour and suspended them from the class trip. As she spoke, the expressions on Michio, Emiko, and Junko's faces ranged from shock to understanding.

"Wow, I never thought Reina would do something like that," Michio mused, clearly impressed by Reina's actions.

"Did she apologize? Her and Sonoko? Emiko inquired.

"If she did, it would've been the most miserable trip of my life," Shinichi smirked.

Michio chuckled. "Well, I guess they really got what they deserved then."

"But it ain't like Ran and Sonoko purposefully told Rokuro to attack Ranran, right?" Junko argued after hearing all of that, "They were manipulated by Mamiko."

"They may not have, but they certainly contribute a lot of the mishap in this association over the course of 2 months," Shinichi refuted, "And Reina was not obviously going to sit idly and watch those two harassing Ranran for the past 2 months."

"Plus the endangering incidents, that was the last straw my girlfriend is willing to put up with," Takuma adds.

Junko sighed, conceding the point.

"Anyway, back to the happier topic," Michio grinned, trying to shift the mood. "New York, guys! It's going to be amazing! You'll have to bring back lots of stories and pictures to share."

"Yeah, we'll make sure to document everything," Takuma said, his excitement undiminished.

"I can't wait to hear all about it when you guys get back," Junko added, her enthusiasm contagious.

"Of course, considering we are still working on Professor Shibuya's case, it won't be a holiday trip for me, Shinichi and Takuma," Ranran announced.

"Wait, what is that supposed to mean?" The rest of the members grew perplexed by the founder's statement.

"Well, I have been doing some research," Ranran left her seat before pacing back and forth, "Yesterday, after Shinichi and Mouri's kidnapping, following Mouri's resignation, I have been digging about Professor Hoga's disappearance, which happened an hour after we met up with him at Teitan University."

The room grew silent as Ranran's words sunk in. Everyone exchanged puzzled glances, trying to connect the dots and understand the significance of Professor Hoga's disappearance in relation to recent events.

"If everyone recalled, Professor Shibuya used to work in NASA in the United States of America, that was until a year ago, someone spread malicious rumours that he allegedly siphoned funding meant for a rocket project for his aviary hobby," Shinichi informed the rest of the group, "And we verified that the NASA office Professor Shibuya used to work in was based in New York City."

"Wait a minute," Emiko interjected, her brows furrowed. "Since Professor Shibuya hired us to locate his stolen eagle, you think you all can verify what is the mysterious item Professor Shibuya had concealed in that Eagle, could be found in NASA?"

"I don't think you can just simply walk up to NASA and demand 'Tell us what is in the eagle'!" Junko said, "NASA itself won't simply disclose anything to do with their former employee, also, since we deduce that Professor Shibuya could've stolen something from NASA...I don't think they might be aware as to what went missing."

"That's where our upcoming trip to New York comes in." Shinichi picked up the thread of the conversation, his gaze focused and determined, "Simply lie and say we are part of a school assignment trip, it shouldn't be difficult to get them to talk."

"Or the easier way is to have one of my contact from Edgewood Academy whose family work there tip us off," Ranran suggest.

"Eh? You know a 6-year-old kid whose parents work in NASA?!" Takuma and the other gasped.

"Not family, relatives," Ranran corrected, though she looked preoccupied with something.

Shinichi who noticed this asked, "Is there a problem, Ranran?"

Ranran hesitated for a moment before finally speaking, her voice tinged with uncertainty. "My deceased mentor's murderers.....their relatives still work there."

A heavy silence settled in the room as Ranran's revelation hung in the air. The members of Tantei Association exchanged glances, each one processing the implications of her words. The connection between Professor Shibuya's case, NASA, and the parents of Ranran's mentor's murderers was a surprising twist that none of them had anticipated.

"Your mentor's murderers' relatives work at NASA?" Michio finally broke the silence, his voice a mix of disbelief and intrigue.

"Are you worried that one of the murderers might try to kill you?" Emiko guessed.

"Oh no, I don't worry about that." Ranran vaguely smiled, "Even if he wants to, he can't anymore."

The room was now filled with a tense curiosity as the members of Tantei Association tried to piece together the puzzle. Ranran's cryptic response only deepened their intrigue.

"Wait, what do you mean he can't anymore?" Takuma furrowed his brows, clearly confused.

Ranran hesitated for a moment, her gaze distant as if lost in thought. "I'm saying that the person who killed my mentor... he's no longer a threat."

A wave of realization washed over the group as they began to understand the implications of Ranran's words. The gravity of what she was saying sunk in – the person who had taken her mentor's life was no longer alive.

"Ranran... did you..." Shinichi began, his voice soft, "Is he dead?"

"No, but he wished he is," Ranran replied.

The room fell silent, the weight of Ranran's statement hanging heavily in the air. The members of Tantei Association exchanged glances, trying to comprehend the depth of the situation. It was clear that there was more to the story than Ranran was revealing, and they were hesitant to pry into her personal history.

"Alright, but if he can't, are you not worried that his relatives will be out to kill you?" Junko asked.

"They can't do much either," Ranran let out a resigned sigh, her gaze still distant.

Michio's brow furrowed with concern. "Ranran, I know you're strong and capable, but we're dealing with dangerous people here. We can't just take this lightly."

"I'm not taking it lightly," Ranran replied, her voice firm. "But I have longed prepared a backup plan years ago should they try to do anything funny."

"Like....what?" Shinichi is curious to know more.

"That is a secret," Ranran winked.

The members of Tantei Association exchanged curious glances, intrigued by Ranran's cryptic response. They knew better than to press her for more details; after all, Ranran had always been a master at keeping her cards close to her chest.