They need it. They're alike in the right ways to be kind of drawn to each other's company, I think. That calm, intellectual type -- despite Near's element being toys. Being a Hecatite, Near would certainly be eager for knowledge and definitely up for more sedate interactions because that species tires easily. Sit and discuss intellectual stuff, strategies, and whatnot. Possibly even confide in him a little bit about how sad he is about what's going on with Mello.