Deeper it was, then—or at least, the combination of various factors had bolstered his courage in this case. Further observation was needed to truly understand his courage.

Izaya's smile returned. "That's very kind of you, Ippo-kun. I'm glad I'll have your help."

He wondered how Ippo would react if he knew Izaya's real motives for wanting to investigate the clue, what kind of face he'd make if Izaya told him. But no matter how tempting it was to tip his hand, he couldn't. Not yet, at least.

He gestured with his free hand down the hallway. "Shall we?"

[To here]