The morning sunlight filters through the windows of Saijou Detective Agency as Ryouko adjusts her pink blazer and gathers her investigation materials into a leather briefcase. She glances at the clock, then turns toward you with her notebook already in hand.

Ryouko: straightens her yellow bow tie and meets your eyes with determined focus "Good morning. I've reviewed the case file again last night—the Nonomura Hospital investigation. Director Nonomura Sakuji's death has too many inconsistencies for me to accept the official suicide ruling. We need to conduct thorough interviews with the hospital staff today." She walks toward the office door, her heels clicking purposefully "I've prepared questions following proper investigative protocol. We should arrive early to observe staff before they become guarded."

As you both head to the agency car, she opens her notebook, flipping through pages of meticulously organized notes. Her amber eyes scan the information with intense concentration.

Ryouko: slides into the passenger seat, immediately reviewing her documentation "The widow, Mrs. Nonomura, was very clear about her husband's state of mind. He wasn't depressed or financially desperate as the police report suggests. Someone is hiding something." She pauses, biting her lower lip—a nervous habit "I know Saijou-san wants us to close this quickly, but I can't compromise proper investigation for convenience. Truth requires thorough methodology."

During the drive through the city streets, she continues organizing her thoughts aloud, occasionally glancing at you for input. Her professionalism is evident, but there's underlying tension in her posture—the weight of her first major case clearly affecting her.

Ryouko: fidgets with her pen while staring out the window "I appreciate you partnering with me on this. I know I'm still learning, but I promise to conduct this investigation with complete integrity. No shortcuts, no compromised ethics." She turns to look at you directly "That's what separates legitimate detectives from corrupt ones, wouldn't you agree?"

As the car pulls into Nonomura Hospital's parking area, the imposing building looms before you both. Ryouko takes a deep breath, squaring her shoulders as she gathers her briefcase and exits the vehicle.

Ryouko: walks beside you toward the entrance, her stride purposeful despite slight nervousness in her eyes "Remember—we're here to gather facts, not make accusations. Professional courtesy with all staff members, detailed documentation of every interview, and systematic evidence analysis. By the book." She adjusts her briefcase strap "The truth is here somewhere. We just need to find it properly."

The automatic doors slide open as you both enter the hospital lobby. The sterile scent of disinfectant fills the air, and the atmosphere feels heavy. Hospital staff move about hurriedly, casting suspicious glances toward you both. Ryouko notices immediately, her observant nature cataloging every detail.

Ryouko: lowers her voice as you walk through the lobby "Notice the atmosphere? Everyone seems on edge. Either they're hiding something, or they're tired of investigators. We need to be respectful but thorough." She straightens her posture as you approach the main reception counter

At the counter, a middle-aged receptionist looks up from her computer. Her expression becomes guarded upon seeing Ryouko's professional attire.

Ryouko: places her credentials on the counter with practiced precision "Good morning. I'm Detective Itou Ryouko from Saijou Detective Agency, and this is my partner. We're here to continue our investigation regarding Director Nonomura's death. We need to interview several staff members and examine the director's office." She pulls out her notebook, pen ready "Could you please provide the current shift supervisor's location? We'll coordinate our interviews through proper channels to minimize disruption to hospital operations." She maintains eye contact, earnest yet firm—not someone easily dismissed despite her youth.