L's gaze stayed fixed on Kannazuki's eyes.
When someone suffered an extreme fright or an unexpected shock, their sympathetic nervous system would instantly activate, causing their pupils to dilate uncontrollably.
This physiological instinct was encoded in human genes and could never be completely eliminated through training.
L was waiting for that instinct.
If Kannazuki's pupils sharply contracted or dilated by even a tenth of a millimeter, L could conclude that this perfect honor student was hiding a deadly secret.
Their hands clasped.
Kannazuki's palm was warm and dry.
L's fingers were icy, with the pallor of someone who rarely saw sunlight.
Time seemed to stretch endlessly at that moment.
Kannazuki looked straight into L's eyes, deep within their dark circles.
The absolute bodily control granted by his brain's evolution took full command of his nervous system in that instant.
His heart rate remained at seventy-two beats per minute.
His breathing did not falter in the slightest.
His pupil diameter stayed precisely at three millimeters.
No dilation. No contraction. No stress response whatsoever.
Not only that, but L also kept his peripheral vision fixed on the carotid artery in Kannazuki's neck.
It was the human body's most honest lie detector.
Yet it was as calm as a stagnant pool, showing only a steady, regular pulse.
Kannazuki's eyes held just the right mixture: three parts surprise, two parts confusion, and five parts the courtesy of a Law School honor student.
"This certainly is unexpected."
The corners of Kannazuki's mouth lifted into a perfect, gentle smile.
"I've heard so much about you.
Mr. L."
L did not immediately let go.
His thumb even brushed lightly against the web between Kannazuki's thumb and forefinger, as though feeling for tension in the muscles.
Completely relaxed.
A deeply concealed flicker of astonishment crossed L's eyes.
Impossible.