"Dark Men?"

Upon hearing Katsuragi's baffled voice, a slightly displeased tone came through the earpiece.

"What's wrong? Don't believe it?"

"No, it's just that the name is not known by ordinary people. So, anyone who can mention this name, even if it's not the person themselves, must definitely be someone who knows about that incident. And as for the person who can easily invade this communication circuit, there's only that guy, right?"

"Yes, that's true. That's enough though, it's not that important after all."

Upon hearing the other person's response, Katsuragi furrowed her brow.

"So, what is the reason you went to such lengths to contact me? It can't be because you have nothing better to do and wanted to chat, right?"

Straight to the point.

"Even if I had nothing better to do, I wouldn't dare to boldly approach the 'Modern-day Holmes' for a chat."

"Yeah, I suppose so. So, what is it that you want?"

Katsuragi asked again in the same manner.

"It's nothing much, but from what I know, it seems like you're facing difficulties, Miss 'Modern-day Holmes'."

The other person teased in an unusually nonchalant tone.

"...So, are you saying that you want to help me? In this situation?"

"Well, you could say that based on the outcome."

Upon hearing this, Katsuragi couldn't help but narrow her eyes.

"Then, what is your reason for doing this? Is it because you're on this plane and have no choice? After all, if you don't do this and the plane crashes, you'll die."

"Is that how 'Modern-day Holmes' thinks?"

"No, I don't think so."

"I see. That's a correct assessment."

"In that case, what is your reason?"

"Well, there's really no special reason."

"No special reason?"

"Yeah, if I have to answer... The Villains don't need a reason for what they do."

"Villains?"

The term surprised Katsuragi.

"Yes, villains. I'm not some righteous messenger, so I don't have the noble reasons like protecting the country or anything like that, that could move people to tears."

Upon hearing this, Katsuragi's words became sharper.

"So, what you're saying is..."

"Just as you think, the reason I do this is purely because of the aesthetics of the Villains. Yes, purely to pursue the aesthetics of the Villains, without any other reason."

"The aesthetics of the Villains? That's the first time I've heard someone say something like that. You really are unique."

Saying this, Katsuragi gave a knowing smile.

"It's not that special, but I'll take pride in your unapologetic praise. By the way, before that, I have a question for you."

Katsuragi seemed caught off guard by the sudden change of topic, but she naturally asked in return.

"A question? What do you mean?"

"What is your reason? Since you don't agree with my reason, I'm curious about yours. What is your reason for doing this? Is it simply because you're afraid of death? I don't think it's that simple... right, Miss 'Modern-day Holmes'?"

"...My reason? If I had to say, it should be... the duty of someone with talent."

"Obligation?" The cheerful voice came through the earpiece. "That's right. Since heaven has bestowed upon me this talent, it must be for a purpose. Therefore, using this talent is my duty. At least, that's how I see it." Upon hearing this, the other party quickly understood and responded in a shrewd tone, "So, what you're saying is that your intention isn't really to help others or simply to avoid death." "Just as you guessed, the reason I do this is solely to fulfill my duty of having this talent. It may sound a little arrogant, but if I must explain, it's the dignity of being a genius."