"April 21st"
"A Dreamlike Performance"
"The Epitome of Miracles!"
"Standing at the world's pinnacle of illusionists—Günter von Goldberg II's next stop is Japan for a tour!"
By chance, Hayato Masaki stumbled across the online promotion.
His long-time target, "Spider," was finally crawling into Japan.
Hayato remembered clearly.
Much like Conan's quest to dismantle the Black Organization and find an antidote, Kaito Kid had a parallel mission—to uncover the truth behind the mysterious group that killed his father and stop them from finding the legendary gem, "Pandora."
Because Kuroba Kaito's actions repeatedly thwarted this shadowy organization, their boss hired the world-class assassin "Spider" to eliminate him. Spider, under the guise of a touring illusionist, came to Japan to perform while handling dirty work.
"According to Koizumi Akako, divining someone's true name requires an item infused with their essence or personal traits."
"A signature should meet the personal-traits condition."
But how to get one?
As a world-renowned illusionist, Spider, mindful of his public persona, likely wouldn't refuse a fan's autograph. Without a scheduled signing event, though, showing up to ask directly wasn't practical.
So, use the Death Note, or…
After a few seconds of thought, Hayato pulled out his phone and made a call.
Moments later, it connected.
"Hello, Masaki-sensei?"
"Good evening, Yoko-san."
"It's rare for you to call me, Masaki-sensei," Yoko Okino said, her voice warm and cheerful, almost giddy. "Is something up?"
"Sorry… I do have a favor to ask, Yoko-san."
"Go ahead."
"Regarding Günter von Goldberg II, who's touring Japan soon—do you have any way to get his autograph?"
"That world-famous illusionist? Are you a fan, Masaki-sensei?"
Yoko sounded surprised but quickly added, "Hold on, let me check."
"Thanks, I appreciate it."
He hung up for now.
As Japan's hottest idol, Yoko Okino had clout in the entertainment world. She might have connections to pull it off.
A while later, Yoko called back.
"Good news, Masaki-sensei! The venue for his performance has ties with my agency. They said they can arrange for an autograph."
"Really?"
The unexpected ease lightened Hayato's tone. He thanked her warmly. "That's amazing, Yoko-san. Thank you."
"No big deal! You've helped me way more," Yoko replied, her tone bubbly, her smile practically audible. "But, um, a little embarrassing—they heard I wanted an autograph and sent two tickets. Got anyone in mind to go with, Masaki-sensei?"
Two tickets?
Hayato's mind raced, though he kept his voice steady. "I hadn't planned on anyone. Are you interested, Yoko-san?"
"Yes! I'm free that day, and I've never seen a show like this. Shall we go together, Masaki-sensei?"
"My pleasure."
After some pleasantries, they hung up.
Hayato grabbed a pen and circled April 21st.
Even without Yoko's invitation, he'd planned to attend—to see firsthand what Spider's illusions could do.
"No need to invite Ran, then. I was curious what her luck paired with the Death Note might achieve."
"But…"
"Maybe one more safeguard?"
As long as Spider's illusions didn't disappoint, they could shore up Hayato's biggest weakness.
In a pinch, creating hallucinations to stall an enemy, giving him time to write a name in the Death Note—that alone would be a win.
---
April 21st, Sunday
Clear skies, comfortable temperature.
Hayato put on a dress shirt, tied a tie, and groomed meticulously before heading out.
In the underground parking garage, he slid into a silver sedan.
Yup, the same Mercedes-Benz E-W210 as Natsuki's "dad"—purchased, paperwork complete, and in the same silver shade.
He started the car and pulled out.
Compared to other cars of its era, the E-W210 looked sleeker, drawing more attention than Hayato expected… but it was fine.
He drove to the spot Yoko had specified.
A high-end apartment complex. As he parked, Yoko, fully disguised, emerged from the shadows and hopped in.
"Long time no see, Masaki-sensei."
"Same here."
"Thanks for picking me up. I'm so excited for the show!"
Buckling her seatbelt, Yoko removed her sunglasses and carefully peeled off her mask, flashing a radiant smile.
She'd gone all out with her makeup.
Stunning.
Even Hayato couldn't help but admire.
Yoko Okino lived up to her idol status.
Her delicate features carried an approachable charm. Her willow-leaf brows framed gentle, lively eyes that sparkled with energy. As Hayato looked at her, her cherry-pink lips curved softly.
"What do you think, Masaki-sensei? Pretty?"
"Stunningly so, Yoko-san," Hayato said with a nod, then added with a soft smile, "This is the first time I've truly felt your star power."
"You haven't watched my shows before?"
"I don't watch much TV, but after today, I think I'll be your biggest fan."
"Oh, come on…"
She laughed daintily, covering her mouth.
Chatting and joking, Hayato started the car and drove toward the venue.
***
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