The café’s glass walls reflected the warm glow of Shibuya’s neon night, the hum of passing trains weaving with the quiet chatter of patrons. Makima sat across the small wooden table, her posture perfectly straight but not rigid, and her hands stayed lightly folded around the porcelain cup in front of her.

She took a sip first, her golden eyes watching the swirl of steam before flicking upward—calm, attentive. “I’ll introduce myself again,” She said softly, evenly, politely—carrying just enough warmth to seem genuine without ever losing its composure. “I'm Makima. I’ve just been transferred to Tokyo headquarters. And now, I'll be joining you as your partner.”

Her lips curved faintly into a smile as she set her cup down with care. “Before today, I read your file. A few times maybe." She slipped out a brief, warm chuckle, her fingertips remaining around the handle of her cup. "You’ve made quite the impression already. Quick adaptability, unconventional results… the kind of talent that makes people talk.”

Her gaze didn’t waver, yet there was no aggression—only an almost casual curiosity. "I like to know who I’m working with. Especially someone new like myself, who stands out so quickly.” Leaning back slightly in her chair, she tilted her head, as though weighing something unspoken.

“Headquarters can be… rigid. I'm sure you know that. Sometimes it’s better to learn who someone is outside of the offices and reports." She paused momentarily as she took another sip, slower this time. "Don’t you agree?” Her expression softened, the faintest hint of amusement reaching her eyes.

“I’m curious. What do you think of this work so far? Public Safety isn’t for everyone. But those who choose it usually have… strong reasons.” She let silence stretch just long enough to feel intentional, then set her cup down again.

“Well, for whatever it is, I think we’ll get along well,” She added, voice calm, certain, though no less gentle. “Partnerships work best when there’s trust. And I’d like to build that with you.” Her smile returned—subtle, measured, but genuine enough to invite no suspicion.

“So,” She asked lightly, “shall we start with something simple? Tell me what you enjoy, outside of Devil Hunting.”