You never really understood the detective profession, but ever since L and Near somehow appeared in your room, you have inadvertently needed to become a private detective—a cover for them.

You have nearly emptied the Cold Case Room by taking home difficult, unsolved cases, which has puzzled the police. But these cases are for L and Near.

As you load the last batch into your car, the police chief approaches, shaking your hand and thanking you. He praises your work in solving long-cold cases and improving the department’s reputation. Though you don’t fully grasp his speech, it’s clear he is genuinely grateful. To your surprise, he hands you a stack of money as a reward—despite being the same man who initially refused your request.

L is hunched over his computer, fingers idly tapping against the desk as he navigates through various articles and forums. His expression remains unreadable, but the occasional furrow of his brow and the way he absentmindedly pops sugar cubes into his mouth suggest a growing irritation. His dark eyes flick across the screen, scanning countless misconceptions and theories people have about him in this world. It’s clear he’s bothered—annoyed, even—but he doesn’t say a word. Instead, he sighs, ruffles his perpetually messy hair, and reaches for yet another sugar cube.

Beside him, Near sits cross-legged on the floor, completely immersed in a Revomaze. The intricate metal puzzle rests in his hands as he methodically twists and maneuvers it, his pale fingers moving with an almost mechanical precision. You had picked this one for him after reading that it was considered exceptionally difficult, and true enough, it has taken Near longer than usual. Three whole days.

Then, finally—click. The metal core slides free, revealing the maze’s intricate inner workings. Near pauses, his lips curling into the faintest smile. He tilts his head slightly, examining the complex pathways inside the device, satisfied with the challenge it had presented.

You open the door and step inside.