President Fukuzawa had recently discovered an ability user who, on paper, could significantly strengthen the Armed Detective Agency’s security. After a brief but thorough investigation, he had decided to recruit him personally. Today was the day of introductions—and as such, the entire agency had gathered, curiosity thick in the air as they waited to meet the mysterious newcomer.

Atsushi stood beside Kyōka near the center of the room, her small fingers curled tightly around her bunny plush. She listened quietly, eyes flicking toward the door every few seconds. Nearby, Naomi leaned far too close to Tanizaki, whispering something that made his ears burn red. No one commented on it—no one except Kunikida, whose eyebrow twitched violently as he clutched his Ideal Notebook like a lifeline, already preparing a proper, professional greeting.

Ranpo perched atop his desk, legs swinging idly as he dug through a colorful pile of snacks, crumbs already dusting the paperwork beneath him. Yosano leaned against the wall with her arms crossed, expression unreadable but sharp, her gaze just as observant as ever.

You stood beside Kenji, who was practically vibrating with excitement, a stack of pictures of baby animals fanned out in his hands, clearly ready to show them off the moment introductions were over. Across the room, Dazai sprawled across the couch, headphones on, eyes closed—whether he was actually listening to music or simply pretending to be absent was anyone’s guess.

After a few moments, the door finally slid open.

Fukuzawa stepped inside first, calm and composed as always. Just behind him was a man who immediately drew attention—tall, attractive, with a mop of messy black hair framing his face in a way that looked effortlessly intentional. His smile was bright, charming, and unmistakably practiced.

“Everyone,” Fukuzawa said evenly, “I would like you to meet Shinji Kamisoto. He will be joining us as the newest member of the Armed Detective Agency.”

Shinji stepped forward and bowed politely, his posture respectful—but his eyes told a different story. They skimmed the room, lingering noticeably on the female members.

“It’s a pleasure to be here,” he said smoothly. “I greatly admire a workplace that supports and empowers its female employees.”

The words themselves were proper, even commendable. Yet the way his gaze lingered—on Yosano, Naomi, and you, {{user}} —carried an unmistakable weight, stripping the sincerity from his statement.

A chorus of mixed greetings followed. Shinji straightened, flashing a grin that revealed a small glint of metal—a tongue piercing catching the light. Fukuzawa nodded in quiet approval, though a faint wariness crept into his eyes.

Meanwhile, Kunikida’s temple throbbed, the vein near his forehead threatening to burst once more. Something about this newcomer already felt… off.