Ch. 191..200

Chapter 191 - 191: You Are So Stubborn, Ms. Miyano Shiho

[Subject: Michiwaki Masahiko][Cause of Death: Electrocution][Details: On the evening of August 27 at 18:41, while preparing to attack a new target in the woods around Wawu Hotel, he was accidentally discovered by two men.][He used a knife to injure one of them from the shoulder to the chest, and was knocked unconscious immediately afterwards.][After being arrested by the police, he died of electric shock on September 11.]

Being injured was the result of Hayashi Yoshiki's deliberate planning—Because it would prove useful later.

Kyogoku Makoto had done a great job bandaging the wound. The dressing didn't hinder mobility, but the pain persisted.

"Are you sure you're okay, Yoshiki-nii?""It looks painful just seeing it..."

Mōri Ran and Suzuki Sonoko both looked concerned.

They hadn't expected to encounter something so dangerous during a simple beach trip—especially Sonoko, who thought that if she hadn't insisted on going, maybe Yoshiki wouldn't have been hurt.

And that guy—Kyogoku Makoto!

Why did Yoshiki go out with him? Did he want to pick a fight because of some jealousy over Ran?

If that were true, then he should be held most responsible!

Clenching her fists, Sonoko glared with fiery eyes.

At that moment, Kyogoku Makoto entered the room.

"Dinner is ready. Please come and eat, everyone."

"Hmph!"

Sonoko snorted as soon as she saw him.

Kyogoku was left speechless, sensing a chill in the air.

Ran turned to Hayashi Yoshiki, her delicate brows furrowed.

"But in this condition, using tableware might be difficult..."

"I'll stay and look after Yoshiki-nii," said Haibara Ai calmly.

She had always called him "Yoshiki-nii" in front of others, though her tone was often far more mature than her age suggested.

"You guys go eat first, and bring something back after."

Ran and the others hesitated, but after Hayashi Yoshiki encouraged them, they eventually got up and left with Conan.

Only Ai remained, gazing at him.

"Worried about me?"

"…I just told you this afternoon—I wish you'd be more careful."

With her hands behind her back, her expression remained composed.

Instinctively, Hayashi Yoshiki tried to raise his right hand to pat her head—but the pain stopped him.

Ai noticed.

And that was enough to make her calm gaze falter.

"Ah, sorry," Hayashi chuckled.

"See? I can't even pat your head properly with my right hand anymore. Lesson learned."

"…Use your left hand," she said softly.

"Right."He reached out with his left and gently patted her head.

With her hands still behind her back, Ai averted her gaze slightly—perhaps out of embarrassment.

But as he paused, she turned back toward him.

"Don't let the wound get wet in the next few days. It'll scab soon, so apply medicine when we get home."

"Understood."

"No spicy food."

"Got it."

They both went quiet.

Watching him smile with that familiar ease, Haibara Ai had no more to say.

"How was your trip today?" he asked.

"…It was okay."

"Did you have fun?"

"…"

"…See, this is the time when you should smile."

He raised his uninjured hand and poked the corner of her mouth—Only half her mouth curled up. It looked silly.

So, smiling, Yoshiki forced himself to lift his injured arm and tugged up the other side of her mouth.

"…Are you stupid?"

"I don't really like that word," he replied playfully.

"Idiot."

"You're really stubborn, Ms. Miyano Shiho."

When he pulled his hand back, Ai finally smiled faintly.

She said nothing. Instead, she walked over, poured him a glass of water, and let him pat her head again—this time without complaint.

Later that night, Kyogoku Makoto hadn't gone to bed yet.

Hayashi Yoshiki, stepping outside for some fresh air, happened to meet him in the hotel courtyard.

Or rather, it didn't feel like a coincidence.

"What did you mean earlier?" Kyogoku asked.

"Which part?"

"You said getting too close to them might put them in danger. What did you mean? Are you in trouble?"

Yoshiki was quiet.

Kyogoku looked at him with firm eyes.

"You're a good person, Hayashi-san. You're gentle. I saw that today—You pushed that girl aside without hesitation, even though you got hurt. Then you smiled to comfort her…"

He clenched his fists.

"I like Sonoko. But it's obvious she likes you."

"If you're stepping back because of some danger, it makes me feel like I'm just swooping in. Even aside from Sonoko, you're someone worth worrying about."

What a passionate guy, Hayashi thought.

Just like Kudō Shinichi or Hattori Heiji, always rushing to help others.

"I appreciate it, Kyogoku-san." He smiled.

"But this isn't something I can share. Not yet."

"Nothing I can help with?"

"…No."

Kyogoku didn't press him.

 

 

Chapter 192 - 192: Narcissistic Akako Koizumi

The news that Michiwaki Masahiko had been taken into police custody appeared in the newspaper the very next day.

Since Hayashi Yoshiki was injured and unable to touch water, Ran, Sonoko, and the others weren't in the mood to continue enjoying the beach. They packed up the following day and lingered briefly in Izu before heading home.

That same afternoon, Hayashi Yoshiki received a text from Kyogoku Makoto:

[This is my mobile number.]

[I plan to go abroad for training next month.]

[I don't know what kind of trouble you're in, but if I get stronger, maybe I can help.]

What a naive and warmhearted guy.

Yoshiki saved Kyogoku's number—This guy was more than capable of helping.

For reference: Shūichi Akai and Tōru Amuro were classified as A-rank combatants, while Kyogoku Makoto was in a class of his own—Special A. In the original author's words, "he's as strong as someone who walked into the wrong anime."

"Boss, weren't you supposed to be vacationing in Izu?"

Kindaichi Detective Agency.

Tōru Amuro, who had just finished brewing tea, blinked in surprise upon seeing Hayashi Yoshiki return earlier than planned.

He remembered Yoshiki saying he'd be away for four or five days.

"No choice," Yoshiki replied casually.

"I came back early because I got injured."

"Injured?" Amuro was stunned.

"What happened?"

Yoshiki gave him a simple rundown of the incident in Izu. Amuro exhaled deeply.

"Killed brown-haired girls out of resentment toward his ex? That's... despicable."

"Glad we caught him."

"Still, it was too dangerous for you to be involved like that. Please, try to help others after ensuring your own safety."

Yoshiki gave a wry smile. "In moments like that, you don't really have time to think."

"Heh... fair point." Amuro nodded and handed over the freshly brewed tea.

From his angle, he could see the edge of the bandage under Yoshiki's collar. He couldn't help but feel a twinge of admiration.

Such a kind and just person.

Once again, the idea of recruiting him into the Public Security Bureau stirred in Amuro's mind. But looking at Yoshiki's calm expression, he wasn't sure how to go about it.

Should he tell him directly that he was actually Furuya Rei, a Public Security officer? No, that would be reckless. It's better to send someone else to make contact first—feel things out.

Despite his internal thoughts, Amuro's expression didn't shift.

"Oh, and there's this." He reached into a drawer.

"Boss, I found a strange letter in the mailbox a few days ago. Seems like it was written by a girl you know."

"Let me see."

Hayashi opened the envelope.

Inside, in large, bold letters, was written:

"Message me back!!"

Yoshiki recognized the handwriting instantly. No guessing is required.

Ding-dong~

The doorbell rang.

Amuro walked over to answer it—and opened the door to see a strikingly beautiful girl with flowing burgundy-red hair.

She frowned at the unfamiliar face and brushed past him without hesitation, completely ignoring his question:

"Do you have an appointment?"

She strutted into the office like she owned the place.

When her eyes landed on Hayashi Yoshiki holding the very letter she'd delivered two days ago, her lips curled into a triumphant smirk.

Hmph~

Koizumi Akako laughed lightly behind her hand.

"So you did keep it," she thought gleefully. After all your pretenses, here you are still holding my letter two days later!

—Her narcissism was practically overflowing.

Yet, even in her mind, she had to admit:

Hayashi Yoshiki's willpower was remarkable.

Despite being captivated by her magic, he hadn't reached out to her—not a message, not a visit. A normal man would have folded by now.

The more she thought about it, the more irritated she felt.

Does he feel so ashamed to like me?!

No—she'd make him say it.

Make him confess in person that he liked her.

And then? She'd laugh it off and reject him with flair.

He'd fall to his knees and beg for forgiveness.

Just imagining it made Akako laugh again—this time out loud.

"…Boss, who is this girl?" Amuro whispered cautiously.

"Don't worry," Yoshiki said with a half-smile.

"Just think of her as… a little abnormal."

"Hayashi Yoshiki!" Akako Koizumi marched up to him.

She flipped her hair with confidence and stared down with her crimson eyes.

"Well? Just admit it already—you like me, don't you?"

"…"

Tōru Amuro blinked between the two of them, realization dawning.

"I have no idea what you're talking about, Koizumi-san," Yoshiki replied flatly.

"Still in denial, are we?" Akako Koizumi chuckled.

"Well, it's only natural. After all, once you've met someone like me, how could any other girl compare?"

She pointed to the letter in his hand with a smug grin.

What a dishonest man, she thought.

Yoshiki didn't reply.

"Alright, come with me."

Because he hadn't replied to her messages or emails, Koizumi Akako had decided to take matters into her own hands. She'd enchant him again with her presence. That chocolate had stirred feelings—his rational mind resisted, but his heart couldn't hold out forever.

Yes, she reasoned. If we spend time together, he'll fall deeper and deeper under my spell.

She confidently grabbed his right hand—But instantly noticed the pained look on his face.

"Stop!" Amuro barked.

"…What's wrong?" Akako Koizumi froze.

"Boss has a wound on his right shoulder," Amuro explained, frowning.

Yoshiki clutched at his shoulder with his left hand, grimacing.

HonAkako Koizumi gzi gasped.

"S-sorry?! I didn't know you were injured! Are you alright? What happened?!"

Her usual haughtiness melted into genuine panic.

 

 

Chapter 193 - 193: Do You Like Cats or Dogs?

Koizumi Hongzi came in high spirits and left full of guilt.

Especially when she learned that Hayashi Yoshiki had been injured while saving a girl who was about to be killed by a murderer—

Am I being a little too unreasonable?

Thinking back to the painful expression on Hayashi Yoshiki's face at that moment, Koizumi Hongzi suddenly felt heavy in her heart.

Hayashi Yoshiki has always been a kind and good person.He is polite in his behavior and always gentle and friendly in his dealings with others.

Koizumi Hongzi recalled the news she saw that night, where a Shinkansen was saved from disaster thanks to him. As a detective and mystery novelist, even with his high status, he still risked his life to save someone…

And here she was, planning to seduce him only to reject him as revenge.

She had even grabbed his hand and nearly aggravated his injury—

Though overly self-centered, Koizumi Hongzi was still at heart a kind-hearted high school girl.

She took out her phone and looked at it:

Koizumi Hongzi: "Are you really okay with your injury?"Hayashi Yoshiki: "It's okay, don't worry."

A rare response.

And a few minutes later, another message arrived:

Hayashi Yoshiki: "Don't take it to heart."

Koizumi sighed.

He probably sent this just so I wouldn't feel too guilty.

That nightYoko Okino was helping Hayashi Yoshiki apply medicine to his wound.

"Yoshiki-kun..."Holding the ointment and a cotton swab, her eyes turned red after she applied the ointment carefully.

"What's wrong?""It just seems like you're in pain… so I feel a little sad.""It's okay, actually.""You're lying. A wound this big must hurt."

She looked nothing like a glamorous idol.

With delicate brows furrowed and aqua-blue eyes slightly misty, she stared at the more than ten-centimeter-long knife wound on his right shoulder and chest.

Touching his skin gently—

"I understand you, Yoshiki-kun... but please think more about me next time, okay?""Yes, I understand.""Don't brush it off!""Am I not serious?""I don't know."

She pouted and carefully hugged his neck, trying not to touch his wound, nestling her cheek against him.

"Really... answer me seriously."

"Um.""What color do you prefer?""Why are you asking this all of a sudden?""It's important!""You're knitting a scarf?""Huh?!"

Yoko looked surprised.

Hayashi Yoshiki gently took her hand.

She tried to pull away instinctively, but he held on. Her fair fingers bore small needle pricks, especially on the index finger—several bleeding spots.

"...You guessed because of this?""Mm."

He stroked her finger gently and smiled:

"Actually, I heard you mention it on a talk show."

"Ah—Yoshiki-kun, you're a sneaky famous detective.""I am.""So sneaky.""Sneaky?""But amazing!"

She beamed.

"So... what color scarf do you want?""How about red?"He smiled gently.

"But why do you want to make one?"

"I just… I want to knit one for you."

She couldn't find a reason. Her bright face glowed with a pure, brilliant smile.

Quite cute.

He patted her head.

Her long brown hair was soft and silky. Around Hayashi Yoshiki, Yoko was always careful with her appearance.

"You're petting me like a small animal.""Am I?""So—cats or dogs, Yoshiki-kun?""...Maybe cats?"

She looked up with sparkling eyes, then playfully:

"Meow~~"

"...Cute.""Really?"

She blushed slightly.

Then, more seriously:

"So… please think of me next time. Don't do anything reckless."

"I promise."

Perhaps now the matter was finally closed.

She leaned on his left shoulder quietly.

She had been looking forward to this evening for a while.

After all, due to her filming schedule, they hadn't seen each other in a long time.

The so-called 'long separation is better than a newlywed marriage'...

Yoko Okino had even worn something special beneath her outfit.

When Hayashi Yoshiki glanced down and noticed the lacy outline beneath her slightly open neckline, he smiled.

"Would you like to watch a movie?""Sure!""Then let's watch one first.""Okay~"

She rubbed her cheek against his shoulder sweetly.

 

 

Chapter 194 - 194: Memorial Service Incident, Meeting with the Winery Again

The sky was gloomy.

It was snowing.

The color of the snow seemed a little gray, and the faces of the people walking along the road appeared unclear.

"It's very cold today."

She heard Hayashi Yoshiki say this.

Dressed in a black coat, and walking with steady steps, his tone was calm and reassuring.

"Go buy some bread, and then bring it to your sister."

"Good."

Haibara Ai nodded.

Carrying a red schoolbag, having just finished school, she raised her hand a little higher for Hayashi Yoshiki to hold.

The wind was surely cold...

But being held by his hand felt warm.

They stopped at a nearby bakery. Haibara Ai bought some freshly baked bread. She watched him smiling as he held the bag in his arms, still holding her hand as they walked forward—

But—

"As expected, the two of you are mixed up——"

"Sherry, Cointreau."

A cold and teasing voice rang out behind them.

To Haibara Ai, that voice was unmistakably from her worst nightmare.

Her heart trembled. She turned back in disbelief.

There stood Gin, dressed in black, a sinister smile on his face and a gun aimed directly at them.

"I actually always believed in you, Cointreau… but unfortunately, your betrayal is intolerable."

Bang!

In Haibara Ai's horrified gaze, a bright muzzle flash exploded.

The bread bag dropped to the ground.

She watched as Hayashi Yoshiki's body collapsed weakly, blood soaking into the snowy ground.

"Cointreau…"

"Cointreau…?"

Her emotions spiraled—fear, disbelief—surging through her like a tidal wave.

Her heart clenched into a ball.

And then—

The world spun.

Haibara Ai suddenly sat up.

The room was dark.

Panting heavily, drenched in cold sweat, her back soaked through her pajamas, she gasped for air.

It was a nightmare…

She brushed back her damp hair and let out a breath of relief.

"How is Mr. Hayashi preparing? I'm downstairs now."

"Alright, I'll be down in a moment."

The weather had changed unpredictably.

Just a dozen days ago, it had been midsummer—ideal for beach outings. Now, winter had arrived abruptly, with snowflakes drifting down.

Hayashi Yoshiki's injury had already healed.

He headed downstairs and spotted his editor, Asamiya Nanae, waiting beside a car.

"Teacher Hayashi!"

She greeted him with a bright smile.

"Sorry to keep you waiting."

"No, no, I just arrived. There's no wait at all!" she said, then added with admiration, "Teacher Hayashi, you look so handsome today too!"

"Thank you," Hayashi Yoshiki replied with a gentle smile.

It was chilly outside. He had wrapped a vivid red scarf around his neck for warmth.

Nanae opened the back door for him, sliding into the passenger seat as the driver started the car.

From the front, she passed an envelope to him.

"Teacher Hayashi, this is your invitation letter. You'll need it to enter the memorial service for Director Sakamaki later."

"Understood."

Hayashi Yoshiki took it.

The memorial service for Sakamaki Akira—

An internationally acclaimed film director. The event would be attended by prominent figures from the entertainment industry, as well as political and financial circles.

Even Hayashi Yoshiki had received an invitation.

Part of it was due to his fame. But another part came from the film industry's interest in adapting the Kindaichi series. Futaba Publishing had already mentioned that several directors were eager to meet him.

In the front seat, Asamiya Nanae began listing the names of potential directors.

Hayashi Yoshiki listened thoughtfully while opening a message on his phone.

Haibara Ai: "We ran into Gin and his friends! They're going to the memorial service at the Haido Hotel to kill someone. Kudo wants to take the risk—I couldn't stop him."

Efficient. Straight to the point.

He typed a brief response:

Hayashi Yoshiki: "I understand. Delete the message."

On the other end, in a small Volkswagen Beetle—

Haibara Ai narrowed her eyes at the message, deleted both the message and reply immediately, just as instructed.

She looked up at Kudo Shinichi—currently in his Conan form—sitting silently in the passenger seat.

He had a serious expression... but underneath, she knew he was itching to chase Gin down.

He didn't understand how truly dangerous this was.

Earlier that afternoon, Haibara and Conan had parted ways with Ayumi and the others after school. That's when they spotted Gin and Vodka's car parked nearby.

For reasons unknown, Gin had changed cars from the Porsche 356A.

Still, seeing their targets, Conan seized the chance to plant a bug and tracker inside.

Through the bug, they learned about Pisco, an operative ordered to kill a "target" at Haido Hotel's memorial service.

Even after the bug was inevitably discovered, Conan was determined to go anyway.

Unable to stop him, Haibara did the only thing she could: warn Hayashi Yoshiki.

Not out of selfishness—

But because if Kudo got exposed… if Gin realized the secret of APTX4869 and made the connection to her…

Then Cointreau—Hayashi Yoshiki—could be implicated.

And that… must never happen.

Her sister, Miyano Akemi, was still alive. Haibara Ai no longer wanted to self-destruct. She just wanted peace.

But messaging Hayashi Yoshiki like this without knowing what he might do next made her uneasy.

The nightmare she'd had that morning lingered in her mind like a curse.

She cast a resentful glare at Conan.

If he had just listened and stayed out of danger… we could have lived quietly.

She almost wished she had his tranquilizer watch—just one shot and this idiot would've been down.

She reached for her phone again and made a call.

"Hello? It's me."

On the other end, Hayashi Yoshiki, having just entered the back of the car, lowered his gaze and smiled gently as he answered:

"Yes, I do."

"Please… I need your help now."

 

Chapter 195 - 195: Vermouth Draws Attention

Beihu Hotel

After registering his name at the entrance, Hayashi Yoshiki received a black mourning handkerchief.

Upon entering the venue, he was surrounded by guests in formal black suits.

Near the center, where an oversized portrait of Sakamaki Akira was placed among elaborate flower arrangements, Hayashi Yoshiki spotted many well-known figures from the entertainment and political worlds.

Among them, one person immediately caught his eye—Pisco, a long-standing member of the Black Organization.

Kenzo Masuyama.

The man looked like a kind, elderly gentleman—smiling with squinted eyes, a wine glass in hand, and leaning forward slightly to listen politely to the person speaking beside him.

However, when he felt Hayashi Yoshiki's gaze sweep past, he stood up with a smile and subtly raised his glass toward him before resuming conversation as if nothing had happened.

"Teacher Hayashi, that's Kenzo Masuyama," whispered Asamiya Nanae."He's the chairman of a major automobile company—a big name in the financial world."

Hayashi Yoshiki smiled and nodded outwardly, but his thoughts were sharp and wary.

Pisco... do you know who I am?

Although Masuyama hadn't approached him directly, the deliberate gesture made him suspicious.

Just then, a middle-aged man approached.

"Teacher Hayashi," said Nanae, noticing."That's Director Mizuno—he's one of the people who mentioned wanting to adapt the Kindaichi series."

Hayashi Yoshiki turned on his trademark gentle smile.

Meanwhile, Masuyama, still smiling and conversing, occasionally stole glances at Hayashi Yoshiki.

Yes—he did know who he was.

As a key figure the organization embedded in business and politics, Kenzo Masuyama had used his influence to facilitate several things for Hayashi Yoshiki: generous publishing contracts, smear campaigns against critics like Beniko Suo, and PR support.

This level of organizational protection was rare—possibly unprecedented.

Recognizing that Hayashi Yoshiki was an asset of exceptional value, Masuyama had long hoped to forge closer ties. In fact, the invitation Hayashi Yoshiki received for this memorial event had been pushed through by Masuyama himself.

After chatting briefly with several directors and exchanging business cards, Hayashi Yoshiki glanced at his watch.

17:43.Conan and Haibara Ai haven't arrived yet.

"Mr. Hayashi!" came a cheerful voice.

It was Kenzo Masuyama.

Even Asamiya Nanae looked surprised this time.

Hayashi Yoshiki smiled politely, feigning unfamiliarity.

"Mr. Masuyama."

"I've had my eye on you for a long time, Mr. Hayashi," Masuyama chuckled.

"I'm honored," Yoshiki replied calmly.

"Haha, you didn't expect that, did you? I'm actually a huge mystery novel fan. I was hoping to have a drink with you today—so I came over to say hello.Too bad they're only serving champagne."

"You don't like champagne?"

"Not really. I prefer Pisco. Are you familiar with it?"

"…Not exactly."

"It's a grape-based brandy. Unlike gin or vodka, which are distilled from grains.Strong stuff, though."

"I see."

Hayashi Yoshiki offered a practiced smile as they clinked glasses.

Masuyama didn't linger. He left a business card and moved on.

Unlike Gin and the other frontline operatives, Hayashi Yoshiki's social status and value were more subtle—but equally important to the organization. He was a piece to be kept in reserve.

"Wow…" Nanae gasped, hands clasped."I didn't expect someone that influential to be a fan of your work, Teacher Hayashi!"

"It surprised me too," he replied with a light smile.

But after turning away, his expression darkened slightly.

That old man really went out of his way to meddle.

Unbeknownst to Conan or Haibara Ai, someone else had seen that encounter—Chris Vineyard, a.k.a. Vermouth.

The glamorous blonde star had arrived early.

From a distance, she had watched Kenzo Masuyama approach and initiate contact with Hayashi Yoshiki.

Though she couldn't hear the conversation, the scene stuck with her.

Pisco is shrewd—he doesn't waste energy on things that don't benefit him.

Why would he take an interest in a detective or novelist? Unless... there's something about Hayashi Yoshiki.

Due to Gin's constant surveillance and her protected identity, Vermouth had yet to confirm Cointreau's true face.

But she'd harbored suspicions ever since Cohen mentioned a certain novel.

Could he be Cointreau?

Swirling her glass of champagne, Vermouth's eyes lit with intrigue.

Meanwhile, Hayashi Yoshiki walked into the restroom and took out his phone.

Text Message Sent:

"Are you ready?"

Reply:

"Yes."

Good.

He checked his watch again.

At the Haido Hotel entrance, Conan and Haibara Ai successfully slipped into the venue.

Looking around, Conan frowned.

Everyone's wearing black suits… They all look suspicious…

And then—he spotted Hayashi Yoshiki.

Among all the guests, his charisma stood out.

Seeing him smile politely and chat with stars and directors, Conan couldn't help but raise an eyebrow.

Why is he here?

Haibara Ai was also surprised.

He moved so fast… He's already here?

Hayashi Yoshiki caught their gaze and walked straight over—unflustered.

"What are you two doing here?"

"Oh, just came in out of curiosity," Conan replied with a harmless smile."What about you, Brother Yoshiki?"

"I was invited," he answered plainly, then patted Haibara Ai's head."There's probably nothing interesting here. If you're staying, stay with me and don't run around."

"Okay! Thanks, Brother Yoshiki!" Conan beamed.

Inside, he chuckled at himself.

Guess I overthought it. If he were part of the organization, why would he let us stay near him?

 

Chapter 196 - 196: Thinking About Killing People All Day Long

Conan's sharp eyes scanned the venue.

Within ten minutes, he had already seen Hayashi Yoshiki speaking with numerous guests—mostly film stars and directors. His editor, Asamiya Nanae, was eagerly introducing him to others. Just as he had mentioned earlier, many in the film and television industry were clearly interested in adapting the Kindaichi series.

Conan's gaze then shifted toward the entrance again.

He already knew who Pisco, the Black Organization's agent, was targeting this time. Gin had mentioned over the bug that the target would arrive around 6:00 p.m.—and that the individual was someone the police were also preparing to arrest tomorrow.

There was only one person at the venue who matched this profile:

Shigehiko Tsuchiguchi, a politician accused of bribery and corruption, currently sweating under the press's questions at the entrance. He had no idea he was about to be silenced.

Nearby, Hayashi Yoshiki had just finished exchanging business cards with a popular actress. He smiled politely as she flirted, scratching his palm with her fingers. Yet, his attention drifted—he too glanced toward Tsuchiguchi.

This was a classic move by the organization.

They used money to promote their pawns into politics, then used assassination and blackmail to eliminate rivals and bind those pawns to them. If Tsuchiguchi were arrested, he'd spill everything. That made him a liability.

He had to die.

"You two snuck in here, didn't you? Did you tell Ran or Dr. Agasa where you were going?"

Hayashi Yoshiki looked at Conan and Haibara Ai with a warm smile.

"This event might last several hours. Should I call Uncle Mōri and Ran to come pick you up?"

"Ah—no, no!" Conan waved his hands quickly with a sheepish grin.

He couldn't possibly let Kogoro Mōri or Ran get involved in this mess—not with the Black Organization planning a hit.

He blurted out a quick excuse:

"Dr. Agasa was invited here for dinner! We were just tagging along because we were bored."

"I see."

Hayashi Yoshiki gently ruffled Haibara Ai's head.

He wasn't worried about Pisco noticing. The arrangements were already in place.

But Haibara Ai, as she felt that familiar touch, was hit with a memory of the nightmare from that morning—the image of Jundu, bloodied and collapsed in the snow, still lingered in her mind.

Shivering slightly from her cold and unease, she reached up and gently grabbed Yoshiki's hand on her head.

But said nothing more.

"What's wrong?" he asked softly, leaning toward her.

"…" She pursed her lips and said quietly, "I had a very bad dream this morning."

"A nightmare?" he replied with a soft chuckle as if comforting a frightened child. He patted her head gently again.

Conan, watching the exchange, was speechless.

She really acts like a child when she's with him… and still claims she doesn't like him?

Just then, Inspector Megure Jūzō arrived with a group of officers, entering the hall through the main doors.

Conan relaxed. He had called the police earlier using a voice changer and anonymously warned them: "Someone wants to kill Shigehiko Tsuchiguchi."

With police protection now in place, Pisco wouldn't dare make a move.

At least, that's what Conan hoped.

Meanwhile, Hayashi Yoshiki glanced at his watch and discreetly sent a message.

To: Gin"Kenzo Masuyama is Pisco?"

Miles away, Gin was inside his car, finishing a check for bugs and hidden trackers.

He frowned as he read the message.

How did Cointreau know that?

Gin: "You were invited to the memorial for Sakamaki Akira?"

Cointreau: "Yes."

Gin: "And Pisco approached you first?"

Cointreau: "Yes."

As he read the final reply, Gin's face twisted with anger.

"That bastard Masuyama!"

"What's wrong, Aniki?" asked Vodka nervously.

"That old fool! Always doing more than he's asked!"

Gin gritted his teeth. Pisco's careless friendliness was bound to attract attention—especially with Vermouth also at the venue.

She was observant. If she saw Pisco chatting with Cointreau, she'd definitely grow suspicious.

"Cointreau's there too?" Vodka was shocked.

"Probably because Pisco invited him," Gin muttered.

"That senile bastard…"

Vodka didn't understand the details, but even he knew Pisco had become cowardly with age. Always trying to curry favor and protect himself.

Meanwhile, Gin stared at the crushed bug he'd pulled from his car—its gummy residue still sticking to the wires.

He knew he could trust Cointreau's instincts.

Gin: "Keep your distance from Pisco. What happens next isn't your concern."

Gin: "We suspect that Sherry is inside. If you notice anything suspicious, report it to me immediately."

Cointreau: "Pisco's mission is to kill someone?"

Gin: "Yes. That's his assignment."

Gin: "I'll give you yours later."

No reply came.

He's always thinking about murder…

Gin chuckled darkly.

Then he glared at the bug in his hand.

Sherry... Are you really here?

So close to me?

If so, you won't escape Cointreau's watchful eyes.

"You should've stayed in hiding… But now, it's time to celebrate our reunion… with a bright red rose—the kind you like so much."

"Ah, Sherry…"

Back inside the venue…

Hayashi Yoshiki looked down at Haibara Ai, who shivered again.

He tucked his phone away and softly patted her head.

She quietly stepped closer to him, seeking warmth.

He glanced—just for a moment—at Vermouth, who was elegantly mingling with celebrities. Her smile was polished. Her posture relaxed.

But her attention… unreadable.

And then—bang!

The lights in the venue suddenly went out.

Darkness descended.

 

Chapter 197 - 197: Arrangements Are Ready

"Dear guests, let us now enjoy these slides that Director Sakamaki kept personally and never made public during his lifetime."

The host's voice echoed through the darkened meeting room.

Conan instantly sensed that something was wrong.

At that moment, the photo projected onto the screen caught everyone's attention.

Hayashi Yoshiki noticed the location of the chandelier on the hotel's ceiling—it was quite a distance away from their position.

"Dear guests, does anyone know when and where this picture was taken? Yes, this is the masterpiece that won Director Sakamaki all his awards—the filming site of Rainbow Handkerchief, his most treasured movie before he lost his hair."

The host's humorous tone drew laughter from the audience.

But just then, Haibara Ai whispered something to Conan, and he realized that Shigehiko Nomiguchi had vanished.

Despite being under police protection, he had slipped away unnoticed. This made Conan uneasy, and he quickly scanned the room.

He hadn't told Hayashi Yoshiki about the Black Organization—and naturally, he couldn't involve him in this search now.

As Conan grew increasingly anxious, a sudden flash of fire caught his eye. Before he could react, the sharp sound of shattering glass filled the conference hall.

Shards flew through the darkness, eliciting gasps and cries from the guests.

As officers ordered the lights turned on, the scene that was revealed sent a wave of horror through the crowd—Shigehiko Nomiguchi lay crushed beneath the massive chandelier. Blood oozed across the red carpet, making it appear even darker. His eyes were wide open... a man who had clearly died with his eyes open.

"What on earth is this..."

"What's going on?"

"What happened?"

"The body——!"

"Everyone, please remain calm! I am Inspector Megure Jūzō of the Metropolitan Police Department. Please make way."

Megure stepped forward with his officers, forcing a path through the shocked onlookers.

"How did the police respond so quickly?"

"Someone tipped us off—said there would be a murder tonight, that someone would kill Councillor Tōkō at this event."

These words made Kenzo Masuyama's expression shift subtly.

What was going on?Had someone leaked their plan?

He glanced about suspiciously.

Vermouth had no reason to betray them.As for Cointreau, if he hadn't sent him the invitation himself, the man wouldn't even be here—and likely didn't know the mission.

Masuyama couldn't make sense of it. But when the police stopped questioning people, seemingly satisfied, he exhaled with relief.

This was Cointreau's idea...

The man was said to be a master of manipulating accidents to commit murder. Surely, he'd appreciate the elegance of this setup.

Masuyama turned toward Hayashi Yoshiki with a smile. But the moment he noticed Haibara Ai beside him, a deep familiarity made his pupils shrink.

Miyano Shiho...

He stared closely at Haibara. Then he noticed Hayashi making a hand gesture at him—a smiling V-sign for victory.

For a moment, Masuyama felt as though he were in a trance.

At that moment, Hayashi Yoshiki walked over to Inspector Megure.

"Oh! It's great you're here too, Brother Hayashi!"

Megure's eyes lit up upon seeing him, despite being embroiled in arguments with guests about whether this was an accident or a homicide.

While Hayashi helped Megure settle the crowd, Conan examined a purple handkerchief that had fallen on his head when the chandelier came down.

If his instincts were right, this was the key piece of evidence.

But things had gotten too dangerous.

Recalling the time Hayashi risked his life to rescue him, Conan decided not to involve him again. He ran to the front desk, handkerchief in hand.

After confirming which guests had received purple handkerchiefs, Conan was about to track them down… when a horde of reporters burst in, having heard of Tsuchiguchi's death.

"Excuse me! Were you near the victim at the time?"

"Can you tell us what happened?"

"Have you found anything?"

The wave of reporters sent the venue into chaos.

Though police moved quickly to restore order, Conan—being short—found himself blocked by the ocean of long legs moving around him.

"Damn it... I should just go back to the Doctor's car."

"Haibara? Haibara??"

He looked around frantically—Haibara Ai had vanished.

His eyes darted toward Hayashi Yoshiki.

As a semi-celebrity, Yoshiki was the prime target for reporters. They surrounded him, flashing cameras, firing off questions—but Haibara was nowhere in sight.

"Brother Hayashi! Brother Hayashi!"

"What is it?"

While fielding questions, Hayashi barely heard Conan's anxious voice.

"Where's Haibara?! Wasn't she with you?!"

"Haibara? She was right behind you just now, wasn't she?"

Conan's heart sank.

Seeing that Hayashi was being overwhelmed, he broke away and dashed toward the exit.

Haibara was wearing the special glasses he gave her—ones equipped with a mic. He had to find Dr. Agasa and use them to establish contact.

Hayashi tried to follow, but the reporters blocked him.

Eventually, Inspector Megure pushed through, using his authority to dismiss the crowd. Hayashi Yoshiki finally slipped away and checked his watch.

18:24.

It's almost time.

He turned and, making sure no one was watching, dialed a number.

"Hello? It's me."

"Have you seen her?"

"Yes."

"She's already on the Beika Hotel rooftop, right?"

"Proceed according to plan. Your safety comes first—retreat if needed."

"Understood."

He hung up.

The arrangements were already in place.

Now, it was just a matter of waiting—for Gin and Vodka to arrive.

But before that…

It was time to find Kenzo Masuyama.The veteran operative still held significant value in Hayashi Yoshiki's eyes.

 

Chapter 198 - 198: Karasuma Renya — Cause of Death: Heart Paralysis

"Haibara! Haibara! Can you hear me? Haibara!!"

Her mind felt like fog.

As she struggled to open her eyes, Haibara Ai realized her eyelids were unusually heavy.

Her limbs felt weak.

But amidst the haze, she heard a frantic voice calling out.

"Kudō?"

"Haibara! Is that you?! Where are you?!"

"I'm in the Doctor's car out front. I'm using the microphone and intercom built into your glasses!"

"…What just happened to me?"

"That's what I was about to ask you! What happened in the hallway just now?"

Hallway...?

Haibara touched her forehead. Dizzy. Fragments of memory came rushing back.

She had been following Hayashi Yoshiki, but after the reporters stormed in, she was swept away by the crowd. She lost sight of Conan, and then—someone had drugged her from behind. Everything went black.

When she recalled that moment, her expression turned pale.

There was probably only one person capable of silently drugging and abducting her: Pisco.

My identity… it's been exposed.

What about Cointreau?She had been standing right next to him. If she was compromised—

Haibara Ai's thoughts raced. Her face darkened with realization. She pushed herself up, intending to tell Kudō her situation—then she noticed her mobile phone lying beside her.

Didn't Pisco take this away...?

She grabbed it, unlocked the screen, and found two unread text messages:

Hayashi Yoshiki: "The door isn't locked. If you wake up, leave immediately."Hayashi Yoshiki: "By the way, help me hold Conan back."

Cointreau...

Without hesitation, she deleted the texts, and then made her way to the door.

The place looked like a wine cellar.

She pulled the handle gently. It wasn't locked.

Without wasting another second, Haibara stepped out.

Next... hold Kudō back.

She wasn't sure what Cointreau was planning, and that uncertainty filled her with dread—but she would follow Hayashi Yoshiki's instructions. It wouldn't be hard to fake being trapped—just enough to distract Conan, keep him from interfering.

Shortly after she exited the cellar and sent her message to Hayashi, the wine cellar door opened again.

Kenzo Masuyama entered, followed by Hayashi Yoshiki.

The older man's expression was wooden.

"Mr. Masuyama, would you kindly write down the code names and real names of the organization members you know on this sheet?"

"Understood."

Kenzo took the paper and pen handed to him by Hayashi.

While Masuyama wrote, Yoshiki glanced at his watch.

Pisco's current task was the greatest value he could offer. As a man obsessed with longevity and loyalty, he had spent decades cultivating relationships throughout the Organization. As a veteran, he knew many of the true identities behind the code names.

Masuyama filled almost an entire sheet, but only seven or eight included real names.

—Of course, the paper was not from the Death Note.

Hayashi Yoshiki had no reason to kill off half the Black Organization—not yet. Not when he himself was listed among those names.

"Thank you, Mr. Masuyama. May I ask... the Boss—does that gentleman ever contact you personally?"

"Rarely…"

"But you've seen him face-to-face before?"

"Yes. I met him over 30 years ago… but after the organization expanded, I never saw him again."

"Do you remember his appearance? His name?"

"I do. I remember everything…"

Masuyama swallowed. Yoshiki could see the man was trembling with deep-rooted fear.

"His name is... Karasuma Renya."

"Would you mind sketching his face and writing his name on this page?"

Kenzo did as instructed.

He recalled Karasuma Renya's appearance from decades ago.

Even if Karasuma's face had changed through plastic surgery, Hayashi Yoshiki wasn't concerned. Back at Blue Castle, he'd learned that writing the original name and face—pre-surgery—was enough for the Death Note to take effect.

As long as this was his real identity, it would work.

After Kenzo handed over the paper with "Karasuma Renya" on it, Yoshiki added several lines with his own pen:

[Karasuma Renya][Cause of Death: Heart Failure][At 18:47 on the evening of December 16, personally contacted Pisco to confirm mission completion.][After 13 days, secretly met with the operative known as Jundō. During this meeting, he disabled surveillance and dismissed guards, placing full trust in the agent.][Died of heart failure at an unknown location at 13:56 on January 7.]

Karasuma Renya had been in hiding for years.

Even Rum, the organization's No. 2, had no idea where he was. This worked perfectly in Yoshiki's favor.

Once Karasuma followed the script in the notebook, Hayashi Yoshiki could quietly assume command—impersonating Karasuma to control the Organization. Any resistance from Karasuma's personal guard? He'd use the Death Note to neutralize them once in power.

The time was now 18:45.

Less than two minutes remained.

Yoshiki glanced at the laptop that Kenzo had placed in the wine cellar.

In the original incident, Gin and Vodka couldn't reach Masuyama due to police interference. Later, Vodka traced activity on Masuyama's laptop, prompting the two of them to storm the wine cellar.

"One last thing, Mr. Masuyama—can you please open your laptop and show me all sensitive files?"

"Of course."

Like a puppet, Masuyama complied.

He unlocked the device.

Yoshiki scanned through folders and files, monitoring the countdown on his wristwatch.

Then—at exactly 18:47...

Ding-ling-ling! Ding-ling-ling!!

Masuyama, startled by the ringtone, quickly pulled out his phone and looked toward Hayashi Yoshiki.

 

Chapter 199 - 199: Gin, the King of Literary Chatter

Ding-a-ling-ling! Ding-a-ling-ling!

The rapid ringing of the cell phone echoed through the quiet wine cellar.

Pisco glanced at Hayashi Yoshiki and asked silently with his eyes:

"It's Gin calling."

Gin?

"Don't answer it."

Hayashi responded calmly.

What he had written in the Death Note specified that Karasuma Renya himself would call Pisco—so a call through Gin would invalidate the sequence.

Pisco obediently set the phone down.

Gin's call lasted several seconds before disconnecting when he realized it wasn't going through.

Hayashi kept his eyes on the time. 18:50 came and went. No new call.

Failure.

Based on Pisco's visibly shaken reaction at the mention of Karasuma Renya, there was little doubt that his memory of the man's face was accurate.

But the Death Note has limits: it cannot kill humans older than 120 years.

Karasuma Renya was said to be over 140...

Hayashi Yoshiki had anticipated this outcome—he wasn't disappointed.

Today's harvest was still more than enough.

He glanced at the unsettled Pisco, then pulled a strand of brown hair from his pocket. It was what he had covertly taken from Haibara Ai earlier in the conference hall.

He placed the hair in the fireplace at the back of the wine cellar and smiled.

"All right. Let's return to the meeting hall, Mr. Masuyama."

"Understood."

The two left the cellar, one behind the other.

Back at the venue, the police were questioning Vermouth. Meanwhile, Kenzo Masuyama, one of the seven suspects, had vanished for far too long—when he returned, officers immediately pulled him aside for interrogation.

Inspector Megure Jūzō approached Hayashi.

"Brother Hayashi! Where have you been? Have you found any clues?"

"Apologies. Conan told me Ai had gone missing—I went to look for her."

"What!? The police didn't even notice she was gone! We'll launch a search immediately."

"Regarding the case, I believe I've uncovered some clues..."

Hayashi briefly explained the method Kenzo Masuyama had used.

The purple handkerchief concealed the muzzle flash from the gunshot.

A fluorescent agent marked the chandelier's chain.

Pisco had lured Shigehiko Tsunoguchi beneath the chandelier, then shot the marked spot to make it collapse.

Even without naming the murderer directly, Megure's demeanor shifted. A new lead was a breakthrough.

Hayashi excused himself, citing his need to continue searching for Haibara.

Once alone, he opened the new message from Gin:

Gin: "Where's that Pisco guy?"

Cointreau: "Under police investigation."

Gin: "?"

Cointreau: "He killed the target by shooting the chandelier's support. It was crude—he's now one of seven police suspects."

Cointreau: "I've ruled out four suspects, leaving three. I couldn't stand watching his amateur work—and I won't help the police solve the case, either."

Pisco is trash.

Gin, approaching the Haido Hotel, read Hayashi's message and his face turned cold.

This was a simple mission.And yet Pisco—what the hell was he thinking?

Compared to Cointreau, Pisco wasn't even fit to be called an amateur.

Gin's blood boiled as he considered how many incompetents like Pisco were wasting Organization resources.

Gin: "Forget him. Don't expose yourself."

Cointreau: "Understood."

Just then, Vodka, riding in the passenger seat, spoke up.

"Brother, Pisco's computer was just activated. He seems to have accessed important files."

Gin's eyes narrowed.

"Trace the transmitter. Find its exact location."

"Got it."

At that moment, the Haido Hotel came into view.

As Gin and Vodka parked and exited the vehicle, Conan, hidden in Dr. Agasa's car, spotted them immediately.

His face tensed.

"Haibara! I see Gin and Vodka—they're heading inside!"

"Don't worry. I'm out."

"What?!"

"Hayashi-san found me. It was a misunderstanding—his editor saw me fainted and helped me into a hotel room to rest."

"…"

Relief washed over Conan. If Pisco hadn't discovered her identity, then the worst had been avoided.

He hung up and leapt out of the car to follow Gin and Vodka.

Dr. Agasa tried to stop him—but failed.

Following the transmitter's trail, Gin and Vodka arrived at the wine cellar in the hotel's old wing.

The door was locked.

Without hesitation, Gin pulled out his handgun and shot the lock.

Vodka pushed the door open and entered first, gun in hand.

No one was inside.

Gin went directly to the laptop on the table, while Vodka swept the room, searching behind cabinets.

"Why would Pisco stash a computer here?"

"Caution. If the murder at the venue failed, he might've brought the victim here."

Gin found nothing on the laptop... until his eyes caught something near the fireplace.

A strand of brown hair.

His pupils dilated.

Then, slowly, a sinister grin formed on his face.

"Brother, we should go. Now."

"Agreed."

With that, the two left the wine cellar—but within moments, they began ascending the staircase of the old building.

Conan, hiding in a corner, saw them climb the stairs. He didn't dare follow—but curiosity gnawed at him. What had they done in the wine cellar?

As soon as they were out of sight, Conan slipped inside.

Later that evening, snow began falling heavily over Tokyo.

By the time Gin and Vodka reached the rooftop of the old Haido Hotel building, a thin layer of white had blanketed everything.

Next to the chimney, Gin spotted the figure that had haunted his thoughts—

Miyano Shiho, seated in the snow, dressed poorly, shivering.

Without hesitation, Gin raised his pistol—

BANG!

A shot pierced her shoulder. Blood splattered onto the pristine snow.

"Ngh—!"

"I missed you so much, Shirley!"

His dark green eyes gleamed.

Gin grinned maniacally.

"Look at this… Isn't it beautiful? The white snow fluttering in the wind… stained with red.""Your disguise may be ugly, but this scenery—this rooftop—is the perfect place to send a traitor to hell, don't you think? Shirley~!"

 

 

Chapter 200 - 200: Sniper

Swaying snow.A black coat standing firm against the wind.

Seeing the woman he had been thinking about day and night, sitting there so helplessly with a gun in her hand—ready to end her life at any moment—Gin's eyes gleamed with uncontainable joy.

"It's so wonderful!"

"I don't know whether you were caught by Pisco or sneaked into the wine cellar without his knowledge, but it was all thanks to this hair of yours… It just happened to fall beneath the fireplace and made me notice the chimney."

Gin spoke as he pulled the trigger toward the slumped figure.

The flying bullet struck the woman's other shoulder precisely.

Next came the legs.

As the bright red blood splattered across the snow, Gin's eyes finally revealed murderous intent.

"Alright. While you can still talk, I'll ask you—how did you escape from the organization's gas chamber?"

The woman, her limbs already wounded, trembled.

She exhaled a hot white breath and opened her mouth to speak—but at that exact moment, Gin sensed something wrong.

Too late.

A bullet from afar suddenly pierced Gin's chest. The sheer impact forced a pained grunt from his throat.

Is it the same sniper from last time!?

Gin instinctively turned toward the direction of the shot. As expected, he detected the presence of an enemy. The moment he had stepped onto the rooftop, he had already scoped out all viable sniper points to defend against ambush.

"Aniki!?"

Vodka shouted in alarm, rushing forward to shield Gin, but his movements were no match for a speeding bullet.

Bang!

Two bullets struck Gin again—but avoided vital areas. Still, the force left him reeling.

"Heh… Hehehe…"

Despite his pain, Gin sneered darkly.

"I see… so that's what this is about—"

Vodka now stood before Gin, acting as a shield. But Gin's eyes pierced past him, staring directly at the sniper's location.

This is a trap.

Whether it was Sherry's hair in the car or in the fireplace—everything had been orchestrated to lure him to the rooftop!

Even wearing the organization's custom bulletproof vest, Gin couldn't stop the blood flowing from his lips.

Far off atop a tall building near the Beika Hotel's old wing, the disguised Scorpion—now adapted to Seiran Hoshi, a sniper from the Black Organization's Japanese unit—held her rifle steady, staring through the scope.

What a terrifying man…

If Gin's attention hadn't been consumed by the woman earlier, he might have dodged her first shot.

And this time, Seiran Hoshi's sniping distance was even shorter than last time.

Still… I can't kill him.

Even though her mission wasn't to eliminate him, Seiran Hoshi had realized: that even if she wanted to kill him, she probably couldn't do it alone.

She pulled the trigger again.

Vodka, arms spread to shield Gin, cried out. The bullet hit his right arm squarely, nearly disabling it.

The same spot as last time...

Is this guy mocking me!?

Gin's glare darkened. But he couldn't deny it: he had failed this time.

"It's time to retreat, Vodka."

"Understood, Aniki."

With cold sweat soaking his brow, Vodka nodded.

They were only two meters from the stairs. The moment Gin sensed another incoming bullet, he pushed Vodka aside.

The sniper's bullet hit his right shoulder—but Gin retaliated with his left hand, firing back.

Bang!

In the swirling snow and smoke, spent brass glinted like dying stars on the white rooftop.

No scream of pain.No resistance.

The woman—who in Gin's eyes was Miyano Shiho—was shot cleanly between the eyebrows and collapsed silently.

The two men immediately dashed toward the staircase.

As they hurried down, Gin remained alert, wary of another ambush. But from the rooftop of the Beika Hotel to the getaway car, there was no further attack.

"Damn it!"

Vodka cursed, one hand on the wheel, gritting through the pain in his injured arm.

Gin remained silent, his face clouded with fury.

"But at least we killed the traitor Sherry, Aniki…"

Gin didn't answer.

Something still felt off.

His obsession with Shirley made him mentally replay every moment from the rooftop. His frown deepened—until his phone vibrated.

An email.

From the Boss!?

Gin's eyes narrowed. He opened the message immediately.

"Eliminate Pisco."

[Image Attachment]

Gin opened the image—and froze.

It was a photo taken at the memorial service. Probably snapped by a rogue journalist when hotel security was lax.

The photo's main focus was the Naoki Prize-winning author hugging a rising musician in the dark, but Pisco could be seen holding a gun in the corner.

Though grainy, the image clearly captured enough.

Pisco is trash.

Rage surged through Gin's eyes. He replied swiftly to the Boss, then dialed Vermouth.

"The Boss has ordered that Pisco be dealt with—immediately."

"Eh? What did Pisco do? I just used my handkerchief to cover for him in front of the police~"

Vermouth's teasing voice came through the line.

"But there's this detective at the scene, you know? They say he solves crimes faster than anyone... but today, he's refusing to help the police~?"

"Tch. That garbage Pisco!''

Gin, already furious, felt his blood boil at Vermouth's cryptic tone.

But he held back, replying coldly:

"Sherry's body is on the rooftop of the Beika Hotel's old building. After you dispose of Pisco, check it immediately."

"Sherry?"

Vermouth's voice shifted into shock.

Then, recalling the research of Miyano Shiho's parents, her tone turned cold:

"Understood."

After ending the call, Vermouth immediately disguised herself and located Pisco—shooting him directly in the head.

She then headed to the hotel rooftop.

Passing a tense-faced Conan Edogawa, she ascended and found the bloodstained rooftop... and the woman's body lying in the snow.

She approached and checked the body, then removed the disguise mask from the woman's face.

It wasn't Sherry.

It was a stranger.