[Light wasn't ready for a full confession yet. He wouldn't admit the subtle tests before the more bold moves, before filling what was now over five pages worth of names. While Mikami had proven himself to be a worthy ally, if a challenged one, there were some things he wanted to play up. After all, Light seemed to know less than his newly acquired partner and knowledge really could be power.

He seemed loyal, at least. While Light knew better than anyone that acting could go a long way, he could proceed with caution. Already he could tell that, if the act was true, this man was loyal but not completely selfless. He was willing to say what he'd given up for this chance, but he had answered a question in the process.

To be fair, Light himself did consider half of a life quite the price, especially for a man as young as Mikami seemed. Likely, half his remaining life was more than he'd already lived.

But for that effort, Mikami was graced with a smile, a hand on his shoulder which urged him up from the bow.]

It's a relief to find someone so like-minded, Mikami-san. I'll gladly accept the assistance of someone who understands the world as I do, someone willing to risk so much. But, as I'm sure you know and understand, things are very fragile right now. I'll need you to follow my instructions exactly. You'll need to act a bit more casual around me. When we're alone, it's fine, but in public, it's important to treat one another as our stations would dictate.