The next day, my body was covered in bite marks, scratches, and many bruises, while Eri looked sexier and more beautiful, like a goddess. Her aura was bright, full of energy, and her motherly charm had increased even more.
Everyone felt sorry for me, but Eri was glowing.
"Mom... can I expect a little sibling?" Ran asked boldly, causing Eri to startle while I stayed relaxed.
"...Depends on your father."
"How many siblings do you want?" Eri punched me in the hip.
"What!"
"Talk seriously!"
"I am serious about this!"
"And answer properly!"
"Ran, do you want a sibling to be born naturally or quickly? Your mom can give birth by tomorrow. So, how many siblings do you want?" Eri punched me in the face and tried to poke me with a hot spatula.
"DO YOU THINK IT'S THAT EASY!"
"I CAN ASK THE GODDESS OF FERTILITY TO SPEED UP THE PREGNANCY AND BIRTH PROCESS!" Eri glared at me, stood up, and coughed to hide her embarrassment.
"How many siblings do you want?" Self-inserted prophecy indeed.
"Dad, is it true?"
"It's true. If you don't believe me, let's go to the Susanoo Shrine. I can ask for your mom to be pregnant, and within 2-3 days, you can hold your newborn sibling." Eri turned red, but I felt confident and unashamed about my claim.
"Okay, Dad! I want a baby sister."
"Granted! Now hurry to school and enjoy your school event!" In the Rolls Royce, Eri and I debated. I might have sounded like I was making things up, but I spoke with conviction.
"If I were lying, why would I confidently claim I couldn't do it? Don't underestimate my luck, Eri. If the gods and goddesses will it, miracles can happen." Eri remained silent and rubbed her belly. When we arrived at Ran's school and watched the event, a case occurred, but I didn't get involved because I was just there to watch.
"Why aren't you helping?" Eri whispered gently beside me.
"Because I'm worried about my pregnant wife." Eri clung tightly to my arm. The case was solved eventually, and the mask was removed, revealing Shinichi.
Their reunion was touching, but not as touching as what happened next.
"Okay, now why are there more passengers than before?" Now we had Eri, Shinichi, Ai, Heiji, Kazuha, Sonoko, and Ran.
"Extra passengers." I stopped smiling, and we headed to the Susanoo Shrine to prove my claim. When we arrived at the shrine gate, I stopped and performed a series of prayers known only to me. These prayers were unique because three albino foxes emerged from the forest and ran towards me, climbing onto my shoulders and head.
"Dad?" I signaled Ran to stay quiet. The three foxes howled, and some visitors and even the shrine priests were amazed because these foxes were proof of my communication with the gods and goddesses. I performed the shrine entry ritual perfectly and methodically. Amaterasu had taught me how to be blessed by Shinto deities wherever I went.
When I reached the shrine, I prayed a melodious prayer. The shrine bells rang harmoniously, answering my prayer. After praying, I offered a beautiful gem instead of coins into the offering box. The box glowed and turned into a ball of light that flew into an Omikuji box, then a golden scroll appeared and landed in my hand.
I opened it and smiled with satisfaction.
"It says here:
Golden Light of the Chosen One, illuminating the world from the darkness of the heart. Although you live in a dark world and your actions are based on darkness, your determination and soul shine as brightly as a star.
Your Fortune: Absolute Fortune
You are blessed with luck itself. Not everything becomes bad because misfortune is an opportunity for multiple blessings for you. Fail to achieve success.
If you dare to take risky steps, a mountain of luck awaits and will show you the way. Don't hesitate to make decisions and continue to believe in your words, convictions, and abilities. Don't weaken and maximize your potential.
Wish: You are the Child of Providence, every wish is in your palm. The question is, will you accept it?
Expected Visitor: They will come in the most expected way.
Missing Thing: Be observant and vigilant.
Travel: Your travels always lead to other misfortunes. Beware.
Business: Your profit is like a waterfall. Never deny opportunity.
Study: Knowledge is finite, wisdom is infinite.
Speculation: As long as you commit, what will happen will happen.
Game and Match: Always on the victory side.
Love: You are a source of attraction. Be loyal to your partner.
Removal: Stay, that is your domain.
Childbirth: Newborn in 2-3 days.
Illness: Your health is well maintained, but your sleep schedule is in shambles.
Marriage Proposal: Your charm is a source of attraction; your capability is a source of allure. Expect many of the opposite sex to be attracted to you." I looked at Eri gently.
"Am I lying?" I handed the scroll to Eri, and she read it over and over again. Each word brought tears streaming down her face.
"KOGORO!" Eri leapt at me, and in an instinctive move, I accidentally performed a WWE move, slamming her to the ground.
"Uh oh." Eri was taken to the hospital because of a bruise on her head. Thankfully, it wasn't fatal, but the large bump on her head earned me a death glare from her.
"What?" I stayed with her in the hospital for a while.
"I hate you," Eri muttered, covering herself with a blanket. I quickly used the God Card to make a baby, modifying the genetics to make Kogoro the father, not Valtor. Eri fell asleep and didn't realize her belly had grown.
I had already helped her, and the next day, Ran was ecstatic at the agency because her mother was truly pregnant. Ran didn't stop hugging Eri and wanted to be with her new sibling all the time. She even took a temporary leave because Eri was about to give birth, and the doctor, who was none other than me, stated that Eri would give birth in two days.
I handled cases downstairs quickly and accurately, then pampered Eri. Ran and Shiraori helped make a lot of baby clothes for the new sibling. Kazuha and Heiji had returned home with Ascendant escorting them, while Conan, having shrunk back, observed his sister-in-law.
"Kogoro... girl or boy?"
"Girl."
"Can I work with this?"
"Shiraori will assist you. I understand your busy schedule. If you need help..."
"I will assist you, ma'am," Shiraori chimed in.
"All right, keep an eye on her."
"I have all eyes," Shiraori assured. Over the next three days, many cases were resolved, but nothing compared to the birth of my daughter. The most astonishing thing was her melodious cry. I deliberately made Kogoro Mouri's daughter have a beautiful voice, just like her father, though not as melodious as mine.
"Koe?"
"Koe Mouri?"
"Yes, it can be the voice of wish. She was born from a wish at the shrine?"
"Koe? Very well." Koe suddenly quieted and began nursing from Eri. Ran was super excited, seeing her little sister. She was a beautiful baby, and her voice was melodiously beautiful.
But it didn't end there. I soon had to go to the next case, far away on the solitary Isle of Mermaids in the high seas off Wakasa Bay, Fukui Prefecture. I was invited there to attend a festival thanks to my actions at the Susanoo Shrine, where I could communicate with Shinto gods and goddesses. I was invited as a guest star, and I felt it was an opportunity not to be missed. So I went, but most importantly...
Mental: Intelligence 319 ↑, Logic 533 ↑ , Investigation 603 , Tech Savvy 856 , Problem-Solving 764
Physical: Stamina 875 , Stealth 654 , Combat Skills 931 , Agility 999, Endurance 831
Social: Perception 985 , Charisma 999, Empathy 754, Communication 999, Negotiation 785.
Stats increased a little, perhaps I'll gain a buff here.
I, Conan, Ran, Heiji, and Kazuha, who coincidentally wanted to stay here, set off. Eri is being watched by Ascendant and Shiraori. I might bring back a yokai pet for her.
"Uncle, you seem very excited," Conan noted.
"Of course, my instincts say this is a great opportunity," I replied.
"A great opportunity?" Heiji asked.
"You'll see soon enough." When we arrived, we were warmly welcomed by the locals, especially me, as they invited me to participate in the Dugong Arrow Festival. I couldn't help but laugh at the suggestion.
"Do you want a job? I can help you," I told Conan and Heiji, who were eager to solve the elder's murder case. I would act as a distraction while they gathered evidence.
After a while, the case emerged, and I was very relaxed about it.
"Uncle," Conan called.
"Good, let's start." When the police arrived, they were delighted to see me, as if I were a good luck charm for them. The three of us analyzed the situation, debunking the legend of immortality as a mere lie. We gathered evidence related to the grave, the elder's impostor, and the accidental arson, pinpointing the culprits with precision.
We collected all the evidence, including the mermaid's grave, the arrows, and other clues, then accurately accused the perpetrators, debunking their easily predictable alibis with meticulous detail.
We completed our analysis in just seven minutes, performing like a well-oiled team. Heiji found the location evidence, Conan the data, and I studied the suspects' habits and motives. It was a trivial case for us.
"I hope this case doesn't become a major tragedy for tourists here. I recommend stopping this ridiculous Immortality Festival and revamping it into something new. I must admit, the island's cuisine, especially the seafood, is legendary. I enjoyed the dishes and learned several techniques and recipes just by watching. After analyzing the waters here, I found that the island is very close to a major food source for various marine life, which explains the abundance of dugongs or mermaids here. Their nesting sites are near the island's coral reefs. I suggest turning this into a snorkeling and fishing tourism spot and use the Dugong as Attraction for whoever lucky enough to meet real mermaid, with an annual festival to give thanks. That's my best advice."
"But do you believe that these arrows can grant immortality? And that mermaids can give immortality?"
"That's just a legend and a fairy tale. The idea that arrows can grant immortality is impossible. What kind of immortality are we talking about anyway? Living forever but your body still ages? Like the elder? Or a body that can't be killed or feel pain even if it's cut into pieces? Or a body that regenerates quickly, but you still feel every bit of pain? When you think about it, immortality sucks. It's annoying and unpleasant because one day, you'll outlive everyone you care about. Life is short and precious, and we should fight for it and cherish it. Don't try to stop the flow of time; enjoy it while it lasts. As for mermaids giving immortality? Curious... let's test it out. May I borrow some beads?"
The villagers gave me the beads, and I sat cross-legged in front of them, chanting a melodious mantra. Fortunately, my studies of Buddhism through Dynasty Warriors and the gods and goddesses helped me.
As I prayed, reciting the Sutra, the beads in my hand turned into pearls of clear water, sparkling like pure diamonds. After I blessed them, I crushed the beads and threw them into the sea, spreading them in different directions and waited.
"Uncle," Conan said.
"Relax, you'll see the mermaids. These are like bait for them. Pray that you meet a princess mermaid, not a Ningyo, but a beautiful princess whose face can drive men insane. Whoever hears their voice goes mad and wants to swim with them until they drown. Use this as an attraction to show that mermaids are real, but only those who endure the trial can see them."
We heard someone singing, like the waves calling us. And sure enough, a beautiful mermaid was singing in the waves. She saw me and swam to the shore.
The mermaid gave me a beautiful pearl, but the most important thing was that I obtained something valuable.
[Buff Obtained > Mermaid Beads: Pearls that grant your any liquid in your body good filtration, your blood can filter the toxic substance at a fast pace, your ingestion in stomach can absorb more nutrients that bring your health, each time you take a bath it cleanses your skin, if you take a hot bath the skin your body become more smoother like silk, glows like a pearl, and pure like white milk. When you take a cold bath, boost your immunity, improve your blood flow and gain more glow-like skin that is kissed by the moon itself.]
What a great find. The mermaid then pulled my shirt and kissed my cheek, blushing before swimming away. Shocked by the event, I noticed a large pearl on the shore, like a beautiful orb, with a letter. I picked it up and read it.
The letter stated that the pearl was a gift from the mermaids to the people of Wakasa City because they appreciated the mermaid festival. The pearl was to be kept in the shrine as a cultural artifact from the mermaids, confirming their existence.
Unexpectedly, they immediately held a festival, and my group hurried back home.
"Uncle, why are we leaving?" Conan asked.
"I don't want to become the head priest there because I can communicate with the gods and goddesses of Buddhism."
"Uncle, are you running away from an opportunity?"
"It's not like that. Being a head priest means bearing the burden of guiding your followers. People here complain and envy too much, creating big problems. Especially with many opportunities in a world full of evil. Take this tragedy as an example. There's an opportunity behind the tragedy, even if it's just an illusion. It's also sad; the sacredness of a place shouldn't become a competition. I did a bit of Onmyodo there and found that mermaids do exist, but they don't show themselves unless people have good intentions. They dislike the festival because it involves shooting and killing as offerings. Mermaids prefer preservation over blood sacrifices. They hope to change the festival to show they exist, but only a few can see them. With the appearance of real mermaids, and the villagers witnessing it, there's proof that they exist. The beads I spread earlier were bait to attract unique marine life there, creating a migration source for some water tourism, especially underwater. I detected many beautiful coral reefs and pearl nests underwater, dugongs, and exotic marine animals. So, I contributed enough without doing more."
"But Dad, that mermaid kissed you!"
"Do you think I wanted that? My luck makes me a magnet for love. I admit I have many admirers, from your age to your grandmother's. If I end up in the news, whether on TV or in the papers, imagine how many bothersome women I'll have to deal with at the agency."
"Then stop being so attractive!"
I could tell what they were thinking, but I chose to ignore it. The important thing right now is...
Mental: Intelligence 319, Logic 533, Investigation 631 ↑, Tech Savvy 856 , Problem-Solving 764
Physical: Stamina 875 , Stealth 654 , Combat Skills 931 , Agility 999, Endurance 831
Social: Perception 985 , Charisma (II) 17 ↑, Empathy 754, Communication (II) 12 ↑, Negotiation 785.
What? Tier 2? Something is definitely wrong here, but I hope this won't become a burden, even though it might increase my charm again.
We returned to Tokyo, and I dropped Kazuha and Heiji off after a few enjoyable days. We said our goodbyes, and I opened the God Card.
There are many cases in the future, and I just need one more, but I really want to confront the Black Organization, so I decided to speedrun this.
In the span of five days, I multitasked like crazy: waking up early, preparing breakfast for Ran, showering, doing detective work, taking care of Koe while Eri was at court, working as a temporary employee at a café at night, handling ministerial and military duties, and dealing with the Black Organization. I scheduled everything to be completed in a maximum of four hours, with the quickest tasks taking just a few minutes.
After a while, I started to feel something strange, like I was too deeply involved in double, no, quadruple jobs at the same time. But I refused to complain or feel weak. This was a challenge, and stress was not an option.
Mental: Intelligence 571 ↑ , Logic 874 ↑, Investigation 991 ↑, Tech Savvy 999 ↑ , Problem-Solving 999 ↑
Physical: Stamina (II) 200 ↑ , Stealth 999 ↑, Combat Skills (II) 10 ↑, Agility (II) 213 ↑, Endurance (II) 345 ↑
Social: Perception (II) 102 ↑, Charisma (II) 341 ↑, Empathy 999 ↑, Communication (II) 341 ↑, Negotiation 999 ↑
'Ascendant ?'
[Sir ?]
"Why is there a Tier 2?"
[Ah, I apologize for not explaining this earlier. The symbol ( ) indicates that you have surpassed the limits of ordinary people in this world. In this case, the symbol denotes that your maximum capabilities are doubled. The higher the tier, the greater the multiplication of your abilities.]
"Oh, that makes sense. Thank you." While I was busy taking care of Koe, Yoko Okino stopped by.
"Detective..." Yoko Okino looked at me softly as I fed Koe, my face showing the tenderness of a doting father and the charm of a devoted husband.
"Detective Mouri, would you pretend to be my boyfriend?" Jazz music stopped. I looked at Yoko Okino in surprise.
"You want me to be Arashi?"
"Yes..."
"Hmmm... Alright. Could you step out of the room for a moment? I feel a bit embarrassed." Yoko Okino left the room, and I turned to Ascendant with a plan to have some fun.
"Ascendant, change Kogoro's face to Sephiroth."
"Understood." I transformed my face into that of Sephiroth, quickly freshened up without leaving the room thanks to a secret bathroom I had installed. I did some skincare, styling, and a bit of fashion tweaking.
After finishing my makeover as Sephiroth, I stepped out of the room, my demeanor now that of a kind and sweetheart, caring, modest, and warm to people, well-mannered and considerate.
I tried to perfectly emulate the character, perhaps emphasizing Sephiroth's first action and attitude before he went mad.
"No, it's okay, Ascendant, Shiraori...?" Shiraori was completely stunned by my angelic appearance as Sephiroth. Even without using Divine Bloodline, I looked stunningly beautiful. If I activated my bloodline, I could charm literally any being just by my presence alone.
"Shiraori?" I realized I was using the wrong voice, so I adjusted it to match Toshiyuki Morikawa's voice acting, adding more depth and charm, like a heavenly being walking among mortals.
"Shiraori?" And Shiraori passed out with a nosebleed due to my boosted appearance and committed voice acting. She was KO'd.
"Ascendant."
"Sir, I shall take care of Lady Shiraori." I left the room, and Yoko Okino, Ran, and Conan were instantly stunned upon seeing me.
"Hello. I apologize for using this form. It's for my privacy and security so that no one can impersonate me. I'm sure no one can replicate this look and voice."
"DAD! STOP BEING SO ATTRACTIVE! I CAN'T KEEP CONTROL OF MY OWN FEELINGS IF YOU KEEP GETTING MORE AND MORE HANDSOME EACH DAY!" Ran had an unexpected emotional outburst, and I just smiled. That gentle smile alone was like an arrow of love piercing anyone's heart.
"Sorry, it's just makeup skills. I'm glad you have feelings for me as your father. If only Koe could open her eyes to see her father this handsome, she'd be happier than you. But you both look so cute. Do you want me to do your makeup as well?"
"With pleasure, dear," Yoko Okino openly said, making us all look at her intently.
"Could you repeat what you just said to me?"
"..." Yoko Okino blushed and sat down in embarrassment. As I did her makeup, she remained silent, while I briefly styled Ran and Conan appropriately for the event.
We arrived at the party, filled with artists from all over Japan and even international celebrities. Vermouth was present too. I was considered a top-tier artist myself due to my detective skills and extraordinary handsomeness.
But everything changed when Yoko Okino entered, elegantly dressed and radiating an irresistible charm. Conan and Ran also attracted some attention from top artists.
Then, the atmosphere shifted dramatically as the superstar appeared—me, with a face and personality so striking that it seemed the world revolved around me. My expression was regal, like a king of kings, with glasses to highlight my intellectual persona. I walked towards Ran and Conan like a top model.
"How was it?" My voice, angelic and mesmerizing, resonated throughout the room, making everyone shiver as if a god had spoken to them.
"... love you," Ran immediately covered her mouth, and I relished in the pure emotion.
"I love you too as my daughter." Then, many artists and managers wanted me to become a top-tier artist. Adding to my already widespread fame, the news of my "death" was now canon, and I had undergone plastic surgery to tackle identity theft issues.
The plastic surgery was quite expensive, requiring significant adjustments. While I was busy answering questions, I noticed Vermouth's keen interest in me. Her expression made it clear—she was completely hooked.
I interacted as I wished, being very friendly and social. Then a murder occurred in our group. Conan and I immediately sprang into action. I quickly treated Okino's friend to save their life, while Conan inspected the room and gathered evidence.
The medical team and police arrived. Kaoru was taken away for prompt treatment, while Conan finished collecting evidence. We explained that the case was a misunderstanding that led to an attempted murder. Fortunately, the victim's injuries were not deep or fatal, requiring only minor surgery and some care.
Conan presented the evidence, and I perfectly explained the scenario step by step.
"Perfect analysis, Detective Mouri. How much did the plastic surgery cost?"
"It was quite expensive. Plastic surgery in Korea is very costly. I spent two months there just for the treatments."
"Well, plastic surgery is indeed expensive, and the issue of impersonation is still a major case. Unfortunately, the impersonator is now dead."
"A face can be copied, but skills are hard to replicate, especially habits and nuances. I hope my new appearance doesn't affect my performance. I'm also worried about another impersonator who might not have the same skills as me, causing anger and resentment from clients. This case makes me realize the importance of continually satisfying clients, assisting the police, upholding justice, and uncovering the truth amidst deceit. I will strive to do my best in this regard."
"It's a pleasure to work with you, Detective Mouri. The same goes for you, Conan."
"Thank you, Inspector."
"Conan, there is a member here. Keep an eye out," I whispered in his ear. Conan scanned the room, and I locked my gaze on Vermouth. She knew her cover was blown from my intense, predatory stare. It reminded her of the Boss. She averted her eyes and bit her finger. When she glanced at me again, I smiled, conveying a thousand words. My unblinking stare made it clear that I had recognized her.
"Interesting," Vermouth murmured softly. Conan and I whispered to each other.
"We found her." We continued the party with karaoke. Yoko Okino and I sang "Hikaru Nara," turning it into a small concert. My musical performance was so captivating that I felt like an Idol Manager.
My duet with Yoko Okino was phenomenal. We even sang several songs with veteran singers, and our harmony was flawless.
After the singing, Yoko Okino gave me a cute gift. In return, I made her a talisman.
"A talisman for career success and potential luck. I hope you become a top Idol, Okino."
"Arashi... no, Kogoro Mouri... can you go out with me?" I opened my eyes wide. Yoko Okino boldly asked me to date? Her confidence made everyone gasp. This was a major scandal—very spicy.
"Miss Okino?"
"I know, you are a father of two daughters and the husband of a famous lawyer. Can I ask for one dinner night with me ? I want to know you better, not as Detective Kogoro Mouri, but as Artist Kogoro Mouri."
"In simple terms, you want to know me as an artist over dinner. Were you inspired by my work at the museum ?" Okino was surprised by my accurate guess.
"Yes, I saw your puppet performance. It wasn't just a dance—those puppets were so elegant and beautiful. The audience was captivated, transported back in time. Watching them dance and play music made me feel like I was in that era, watching a live performance. Your artistry in makeup made me feel seen and appreciated. In my deepest wish to become a superstar and versatile actress, knowing you better might help me develop my hidden talents. Please, Sensei Mouri, help me express my feelings, passion, and desires." Okino bowed deeply. I was touched. Should I take on this new challenge? Multi-work? Hey, I am a primordial being. Human limits are just an "Art of holding back" but I've been strong since birth.
"How interesting" I chuckled softly, then removed my glasses and put them in my pocket.
"As you wish"
We went out for dinner, and during our meal, Okino and I had a lengthy conversation. Like with Azusa, I used all my abilities and tools to help her develop her talent.
I demonstrated choreography and vocal ranges, teaching her some breathing techniques and dance moves that idols use. I also shared tips and tricks to help her perform encores, something I had foreseen using Onmyodo. Additionally, I provided her with health tips that could benefit her career.
Beyond that, I taught Yoko Okino how to be both a lead and a backup dancer, emphasizing teamwork and formation strategies. I even discussed how to execute methodical performances if she ever decided to form a group.
After our session, it was time for an exchange of opinions. I wasn't just a teacher; I needed to receive feedback and answer any questions my student had. This Q&A session brought us closer together.
I noticed Yoko Okino flirting and trying to engage with me, but I responded gently and remained composed, knowing we were being watched. After the delightful dinner, we each returned to our respective homes.
Yoko Okino threw herself onto her bed, screaming with excitement because she had inadvertently poured her heart out to me.
"If... I can be your mistress... no, no, Detective Mouri is a faithful husband... I can't take him from Mrs. Eri... I need to become more famous and more popular. I don't want my fame to be overshadowed by the detective and his wife." With this resolve, Yoko Okino became very motivated, while I...
"HOW DARE YOU!" Eri completely emptied my energy once again, having been stressed out after dealing with an annoying client for two days. Hearing about my dinner date with Okino made her extremely jealous, and she demanded my complete attention during our intimate session.
"Sorry."
"NO SORRY!" Eri drained me completely, leaving me as dry as a desert by the time the sun rose the next morning.