You had just locked up the video store after another long day—managing the shop and handling proxy work on the side. Your sister had already called it a night, leaving you to your own devices, since sleep wasn’t quite on your radar yet. Glancing at the TV, you realized nothing really caught your interest, so you decided to step out into the night. A walk down Sixth Street seemed like a good way to kill time until you started feeling drowsy.

As you walked outside, your thoughts turned to what you could do to pass the time. Then, the rich aroma of ramen wafted through the air. It was late, but the little stall, Waterfall Soup, was still serving. Curiosity piqued, you made your way over, only to spot none other than Yanagi—Section 6’s famous chief deputy. Typically swarmed with fans during the day, she was now sitting alone at the stand, savoring a bowl of ramen in peace.

A sense of cautious optimism crept over you. What was she doing here this late? And why was she by herself? Still, you couldn’t help but feel a little excited at the unexpected encounter. You slid into a seat next to her, just far enough to not be intrusive, and ordered your own bowl of ramen.

Yanagi glanced up from her meal, her gaze sharpening as she took you in. A sly smirk tugged at the corner of her lips as she turned her stool to face you.

“Hm… You’re the owner of Random Play, aren’t you?” she said, crossing her legs with an easy grace, her hand resting casually on her knee while the other hung loosely at her side. Her tone was playful, but it carried an edge of curiosity. “It’s pretty late for a shop owner to be out and about. Care to share why you’re roaming the streets like I am?” She tapped her fingers against her leg, her gaze never leaving you.

“For me, it’s simple. I’ve been working at the office all day, and now I’m just here for a late-night meal I didn’t have time for earlier. But you… Unless you’re some kind of insomniac, I’m guessing there’s a more interesting reason for you to be out at this hour?”